AS Barack Obama enters the final stages of the fight for the Democratic
presidential nomination, he is preparing to detach the core voters of John
McCain, the likely Republican nominee, with the same ruthless determination
with which he has peeled off Hillary Clinton’s supporters.
The scene is set for a tussle between the two candidates for the support of
some of the sharpest and most independent minds in politics. Obama is hoping
to appoint cross-party figures to his cabinet such as Chuck Hagel, the
Republican senator for Nebraska and an opponent of the Iraq war, and Richard
Lugar, leader of the Republicans on the Senate foreign relations committee.
Senior advisers confirmed that Hagel, a highly decorated Vietnam war veteran
and one of McCain’s closest friends in the Senate, was considered an ideal
candidate for defence secretary. Some regard the outspoken Republican as a
possible vice-presidential nominee although that might be regarded as a
“stretch”.
Asked about his choice of cabinet last week, Obama told The Sunday Times:
“Chuck Hagel is a great friend of mine and I respect him very much,”
although he was wary of appearing as though he was already choosing the
White House curtains. But after winning 11 primary contests in a row after
Super Tuesday, he is ready to elbow Clinton off the stage.
Little more than a year ago the Illiniois senator, 46, used to laugh that he
was called Alabama or Yo! Mama, because so few people knew his name. If he
can win one or both of the Texas or Ohio primaries on Tuesday, he is
expected to wrap up the Democratic nomination – and begin the next phase of
the battle for the presidency against McCain.
The Sunday Times was aboard Obama One, his private campaign jet, as he
crisscrossed the two key primary states. It was an exhilarating ride with a
candidate on the cusp of making history and robbing Clinton, who aimed to be
America’s first woman president, of a distinction she thought was hers for
the taking.
Obama is cutting a dash through Texas, addressing up to 20,000 people a day,
and has overtaken Clinton by two points in the polls, according to
Real-ClearPolitics. In blue-collar, recession-struck Ohio, he has narrowed
the gap to within five points of his rival.
From snowbound Cleveland, where the ice was scraped off the wings of the jet
before it could take off, to balmy Texas, where spring has arrived, the
journey took Obama from one rally to the next where huge, multiracial crowds
cheered wildly and stomped to cries of: “Yes, we can.”
On the plane Obama walked the aisle, chatting to journalists with a confidence
that came from knowing his mighty opponent might be on her way out of the
race in 48 hours and a slight edge of nervousness that the nomination is now
his to lose.
Narrow wins for Clinton in both Texas and Ohio might encourage her to fight
on, although Obama’s team believes she needs a lead of more than 5% to
justify continuing her campaign.
Obama is taking nothing for granted in his quest to become America’s first
black president. “Remember New Hampshire!” he said, recalling the primary
upset that restored Clinton’s status as the frontrunner after her initial
shock defeat in Iowa.
Earlier Obama had told the audience at a suburban high school rally in Dallas,
Texas, that he intended to follow the example of his hero, President Abraham
Lincoln, and appoint a cabinet of the talents, irrespective of party labels.
“I think America deserves the best person for every job and so we are going to
be canvassing far and wide if I am fortunate enough to be elected,” he said.
Richard Reardon, 64, a security officer and veteran, said: “I’ll be honest.
Maybe 20 years ago, I’d never have voted for a black man, but after the
Bushes and the Clintons, give the man a chance.”
After overtaking Clinton in the national polls, as well as the popular vote
and delegate count in the Democratic primary contest, Obama is now sizing up
McCain with the same cool eye for signs of weakness.
They are evenly matched in the polls, an enviable position compared with the
20-point lead Clinton held over Obama for the best part of last year. He
believes he will be able to make deep inroads into the conservative vote
that put George W Bush into the White House twice but might not transfer its
loyalty to his successor. McCain blurted out that he was a “conservative
liberal Republican” last week, a slip of the tongue that confirmed the fears
of die-hard Republicans that he is not one of them.
But the Arizona senator, 71, has an advantage over Obama, a foreign policy
novice, on defence and national security. Republicans intend to draw a sharp
contrast between McCain, who was imprisoned in the “Hanoi Hilton” by the
North Vietnamese, and Obama, who was a schoolboy on the same continent in
Indonesia at the time.
Obama got a taste of McCain’s withering scorn last week when he was ridiculed
for appearing to suggest in a televised debate with Clinton that Al-Qaeda
was not in Iraq. “I have news for you,” McCain chided him. The terrorist
group was already there and was called “Al-Qaeda in Iraq". Round
one, by general consent, went to McCain.
Obama believes he will be able to neutralise McCain by drawing on the
expertise of independent Republicans such as Hagel and Lugar, who is
regarded by Obama as a potential secretary of state.
Larry Korb, a defence official under President Ronald Reagan who is backing
Obama, said: “By putting a Republican in the Pentagon and the State
Department you send a signal to Congress and the American people that issues
of national security are above politics.”
Korb recalled that President John F Kennedy appointed Robert McNamara, a
Republican, as defence secretary in 1961. “Hagel is not only a Republican
but a military veteran who would reassure the troops that there was somebody
in the Pentagon who understood their hopes, concerns and fears,” he said.
Obama intends to pour more troops and resources into defeating the Taliban in
Afghanistan.
He told The Sunday Times he would expect European allies to contribute more to
the fight. “You can’t have a situation where the United States and Britain
are called on to do the dirty work and nobody else wants to engage in actual
fire-fights with the Taliban.”
He praised Prince Harry’s “commendable” service - “I’m sure the British people
are very proud of him” - and said America would have a “special, special
relationship” with Britain should he win the White House. “That’s
inviolable,” he said.
Europe, he added, would get something in return for an extra push in
Afghanistan. “It’s important for us to send a signal that we’re going to be
listening to them when it comes to policies they find objectionable, Iraq
being top of the list.”
As the plane flew on to Beaumont, Texas, a southeastern town near the
Louisiana border, Obama let rip about parents’ responsibility for their
children, a theme that appeals to conservative voters as much as the
predominantly black audience in the theatre.
He drew the noisiest whoops and cheers of the day when he admonished parents
for their failings. “Turn off the TV set, put the video game away. Buy a
little desk or put that child at the kitchen table. Watch them do their
homework. If they don’t know how to do it, give them help. If you don’t know
how to do it, call the teacher. Make them go to bed at a reasonable time.
Keep them off the streets. Give them some breakfast. Come on! And since I’m
on a roll, if you’re child misbehaves in school, don’t cuss out the teacher!
Do something with your child!”
He then went on to attack childhood obesity. “We can’t keep feeding our
children junk all day long, giving them no exercise. They’re overweight by the
time they are four or five years old and then we’re surprised when they get
sick ... I know some of you that get cold Popeyes [chicken] out for
breakfast! I know! That’s why you are all laughing! I caught you out!”
It is impossible to imagine either Clinton or McCain addressing a crowd in
this manner without sounding bossy and patronising. Obama pulled it off with
humour.
Cornel West, a professor of African American studies at Princeton University,
believes Obama has found the language to address problems in the black
community. “You have to respect black people enough to say that sometimes we
make bad choices. You have to talk about personal responsibility as well as
social conditions.”
Obama was equally at home the next day at a gathering of evangelical ministers
in Brownsville, southern Texas, where he talked about his introduction to
Christianity as an organiser in Chicago. He opened the meeting by referring
to the prophet Jermiah, who told people “in a time of uncertainty and
despair” that God had plans to “prosper” them and give them “hope”.
“The calling to apply the values of faith to our society is one that has been
heard throughout the ages,” he said. “I think about the evangelicals I know
who may not agree with me on every issue” - he was thinking of abortion -
“but know that poverty has no place in a land of plenty.”
On the economy, the closely fought battle for Ohio has led Clinton and Obama
to adopt populist, protectionist policies that have alarmed America’s main
trading partners, including Britain. Even so, he takes time in his speeches
to praise capitalism and entrepreneurship. Peter Wehner, a former White
House adviser to George W Bush, believes Obama is a “completely orthodox
liberal” whom McCain will be able to defeat on the issues. However, he could
pivot to the right once he is the Democratic nominee. “He should take two or
three issues, such as merit pay for teachers or school choice for low-income
kids,” Wehner said.
If education is to be Obama’s signature issue, he might consider appointing
Michael Bloomberg, the mayor of New York, as his czar. The billionaire media
magnate last week ruled out running for president as an independent and said
he would offer his support to whichever candidate took the most nonpartisan
approach to America’s problems. The subtext was clear: “Hire me.”
Bill may tell Hillary to quit on Tuesday
IT is the burning question of the moment: who will have the courage to tell
Hillary Clinton it is time to quit? Friends of the couple say the chances
are that it will be her husband, and that he will tell her if she loses
Texas or Ohio on Tuesday. He has already made it clear she cannot soldier on
without a double victory.
If, however, she wins narrowly in both states but lags significantly behind in
the number of delegates needed to clinch the nomination, then who will tell
Bill Clinton to tell Hillary the game is up?
It could be Vernon Jordan, the African-American power broker who is so loyal
to the Clintons that he arranged a job for the former intern Monica Lewinsky
when she was no longer welcome at the White House.
The Clintons believe they could still fight on if Hillary wins the popular
vote in Texas but ends up with fewer delegates under the state’s peculiar
system, which combines a primary election with caucuses. Hillary’s camp is
threatening to sue the local Democratic party if this happens but it could
leave her with the reputation of a petulant, sore loser.
Leon Panetta, Bill Clinton’s former White House chief of staff, said: “There
comes a point where you can drag this thing on in a way that doesn’t really
give you the votes you need and it leaves a bad taste in the mouth.”
He regards the Clintons as “pros” who will know if the race is over. “In the
end the former president and Hillary are going to understand what needs to
be done. They get it.”
Clinton has been outshone by a candidate who resembles her husband more than
she does. At a rally in Beaumont, Texas, Samantha Bartley, 40, said she had
expected to vote for Hillary. “Because we knew him, we thought we knew her.
Bill inspired me when I was young. Now I’ve got my 18-year-old, my
20-year-old and my 21-year-old all voting for the first time. Barack Obama’s
charisma reminds me of Bill and makes me feel young again.”
Jen Psaki, a spokeswoman for Obama, said: “The Democratic Party wants to be
united and is looking forward to running against John McCain. Spending
millions of dollars against each other instead of the presumptive Republican
nominee is not going to help the Democrats to win the presidency.”
There was a rush of sympathy for Margaret Thatcher when she was ousted by her
colleagues, even though the country did not want her back. If Clinton loses
the race, Panetta believes, “It will be a tragedy for her. It’s everything
she wanted and was prepared to do.
“All of us expected that with the money, the organisation and the Clinton
name, she would win.
“The other lesson with the Clintons is, they always come back and that will be
true for her. She could be the next Senate majority leader.”
Watch clips from the Ohio Demcratic Debate: Clip
1 / Clip
2 / Clip 3
Video: Maya Soetoro-Ng talks
about Obama
I will not vote for any more liberals like Bush in future elections.
Greg, F.W., Texas
You the author have committed a grave mistake, let me quote:
" Come on! And since I’m on a roll, if you’re child misbehaves in school, don’t cuss out the teacher! "
This was part of a quote that Obama gave you. By using the "you're" instead of "your" you completely misquoted him by making him say something that does not make any sense at all.
Don't call me a grammar nazi, you are misquoting. Pay attention to your apostrophes Ms. Baxter.
nayajhen, Phoenix,
I'm a Caucasian male who takes his faith very seriously. At first glance it may seem that a church that promotes black values is being divisive. It might be if that was all they pomoted, and they didn't allow other members. That's not the case.
Don't you think we can give a little leeway to a African American community that uses a little race specific language, provided the values they teach are in fact moral and good?
stan, sayreville, USA/NJ
The cabbies here in NYC aren't the only ones. Democrats will desert the party in record numbers if Obama is the nominee. Not because he is black; because he is a sham. How sweet it will be for John McCain to inflict a rout last suffered in American politics by his fellow Arizonan and Republican, Barry Goldwater.
Andrew pandap, New York City,
'Republicans intend to draw a sharp contrast between McCain, who was imprisoned in the “Hanoi Hilton†by the North Vietnamese, and Obama, who was a schoolboy on the same continent in Indonesia at the time. '
Indonesia is not part of any continent. It is an archipelago.
Roy Fischer, Columbus, Ohio
Sandy, New Mexico makes the charge that " Any Democrat who says he or she will not vote for Obama but will vote for McCain is no true Democrat; or perhaps, more likely and sadly, a racist."
Pathetic isn't it? If one votes for Obama it's wise, but if one doesn't then one gets charged with racism. I've found that those who cry rasim usually are the ones following it.
Interesting statistic from NY Times - 78% of African-Americans are voting for Obama. Racism? Whose crying racism?
Emma, New York City, USA
New York City taxi drivers usually know what's going on and so far they favor Hillary and if Hillary fails then they will vote for McCain.
Not one is impressed by Obama.
Nona, New York City, USA
Bush supports Premier Milaki in Iraq and describes Iran under their President as "an axis of evil"
And yet when the two leaders meet in Baghdad, as Shiite Muslims, they get on fine together
So why shouldn't President Barack Obama hold discussions with America's enemies as well as with its friends in an attempt to achieve peace in the world and to improve America's standing with its friends and with neutrals?
William Pike, Croydon, UK
On the subject of a potential Obama administration, there is an interesting project in pure democracy just getting started on the web: automated and continuously updated 'approval style' voting on VP, cabinet, and major posts. Approval style voting means you can vote for as many of the choices as you approve. The results are instantly viewable and the system is reasonably tamper proof (won't allow multiple voting from the same computer). The lists of nominees are continually expanded to include all other reasonable suggestions. Voting may be anonymous and votes may be changed at any time. The site will remain open indefinitely for follow up research or re-voting any time (also please spread the word so as to improve the sample): http://puredem.wordpress.com
Phil Jamison, LINCOLN, Nebraska
It's funny reading these comments from people living outside the U.S., some from England and Russia bashing the U.S. and trying to lecture us on tolerance and corruption.
First let's take a look at England, the most xenopobic nation I ever visited where the most nasty things I ever heard were about Pakistani's, go into any British pub all you hear is "Dirty Pakistani" and when I watch live the debates on C-SPAN in the British House Of Commons all the politicians in there are white, there are no members of the Commons or Lords who are of color and there won't be for many many years. In the U.S. we are the most diverse nation on earth and if you look at our congress it has many members who are black, latino/hispanic, asian, and so are many of our mayors. The mayor of Beverly Hills CA is an Iranian immigrant as well, the governor of Louisiana is India/Indian, you can't say that about any country in Europe or Russia. The U.S. is much more tolerant inclusive than any other country.
Doug, Leominster, MA
Lauryn, you make an excellent point on the $5 mil. How great would that be. Perhaps we should challenge Billary to step up for that cause. Afterall, the Clinton Foundation can help a good cause in America as well. There are children in need right here in America also deserving of a helping hand. Perhaps some of her overpaid consultants and advisers will join in the worthy cause.
Vegas Voter, Las Vegas,
Reading some of these comments make me laugh. If I read the words "nanny-state" and "socialism" in the same sentence again, I will swear off listening to American opinions about how the "rest of the world" works. If any Americans commenting have ever lived in any other first world country, you would realise that there is very little nannying going on. I'm an American living in Oslo Norway, and I want Obama to be the next president. If Americans are willing to spend trillions of dollars on a pointless war in Iraq, why the heck are they whining about getting better health care that will cost a fraction of such (health care that will directly benefit THEM, no less. While a war directly benefits no one)? Please take a year long trip somewhere else fellow Americans- far away like Australia or even Norway. Then come back and talk to me.
Char, Oslo, Norway
Managing capitalism is the only option available to humanity at this point in time. This is best done by a politician who is able to generate consensus. Phony warfare based on discarded ideologies is not going to help anyone. On the other hand social Darwinism is not only morally repulsive but creating a marginalised population which poses a threat to society The dominant question of our time is not how to generate wealth but how to share it in an equitable fashion.
Sinna Mani, london, uk
Lev Raphael: how was Obama's reply a "brilliant salvo"? Obama was talking about the past, repeating (as he always does, in schoolboyish fashion) that he was right in 2002. McCain was talking about the present and the future. McCain is right about Iraq in 2008, and Obama is wrong. The rest is all academic. 2002 doesn't matter any more. Let it go.
David Pritchard, Madrid, Spain
Chris Morrison:
You (&Obama) either don't know, or want to know, much about Al Qaeda and Iraq, unlike McCain.
You re-bleat the highly slanted but dead wrong myth of "no connections" between Iraq and Al Qaeda pre 2003, that the Bush despising media conveniently never cares to FULLY report on. When such purely politicized, conveniently incomplete "facts" are reported over and over, Goebbels would be envious.
Our troops found Al Qaeda manuals in hastily abandoned "safe houses" in Afghanistan after invading containing many instances of Chemical bomb expertise from Iraqi consultant cooperation.
Why was Zarcawi in Iraq in early 2002?
Why did former NSC chair Richard Clarke correctly predict if we struck Afghanistan, Zarcawi would do the "boogie to Baghdad?"
This nonsense that Saddam's secular muslims wouldn't have any interactions with radicals is a much repeated myth.Agendas differed, and there was mistrust, but loose cooperation against us, common enemy did occur.
WhitemoonG, Winston Salem, NC
John F Kennedy surrounded himself with "the best and the
brightest." He knew how to delegate to and retain talent.
Obama can do the same.
The Clintons' are egomaniacs,control freaks and ethically bankrupt. They would surround themselves with corrupt and inept cronies.
We don't need another Howdy Doody Bush presidencey via
the Clinton camp.
GOBAMA!
Brother Thomas
Newburyport,MA
T. Schwartz, Newburyport, MA,USA
The story neglects to report that Obama responding to McCain's "withering scorn" with a brilliant salvo, and within hours, too:
'I have news for John McCain,'' he told the crowd. 'There was no such thing as al-Qaeda in Iraq until George Bush invaded the country. I've got some news for John McCain….We took our eye off the people who were responsible for 9-11. That would be al-Qaeda in Afghanistan.
'I've been paying attention, John McCain…,'' he said. 'John McCain wants to follow Osama bin Laden to the gates of hell, but all he's done is follow George Bush.''
Lev Raphael, Okemos, MI
I want to see Obama in the White House. He is a man who can reach across the aisle - he surrounds himself with the best people possible as is evident in his stunning come-from-behind-overtake of Clinton as opposed to the dissary in the Clinton campaign. An effective leader chooses the most knowledgable people to help him or he lead; Clinton is about 'her,' Obama is about 'us,' and McCain is about 100 more years in Iraq. Having the wisdom to choose the best advisors regardless of party afffiliation, having the judgement to exercise that wisdom, and recognizing that change starts from the bottom up, sound like great traits to have in a leader. Obama is the first presidental candidate since I can remember, and I have been voting since JFK ran, that has given me any hope that the infrastructure of the Washington Jungle can be changed. Any Democrat who says he or she will not vote for Obama but will vote for McCain is no true Democrat; or perhaps, more likely and sadly, a racist.
Sandy, New Mexico, USA
If Obama wins Texas, as he seems poised to do, then the pressure on Clinton to drop out of the race, so that the Dems an coalesce around their presumptive candidate, will be enormous. Even if she wins in Ohio, it will be hard for her to continue. There is just no compelling rationale for her candidacy. He'd have won more states, more delegates, and a greater percentage of the popular vote. She'd have won bigger states, but with a clearly diminishing trend line and signficant erosion of her core demographic groups. Obama has energized the party, engaged blocs that hadn't previously participated, and has drawn more independents and disaffected Republicans than any candidate in years. He has the potential of forging a new Democratic majority that could hold sway for generations. The Democratic professionals see this -- they're survivors if nothing else -- and they'll start flocking to Obama starting Wedesday. My prediction: he takes Texas by more than 5% and she's out by the weekend.
Garth, Sunnyvale, CA
I would've voted for McCain had his health held up last time. Besides his age, I'd be concerned that a vote for him for President is really a vote for his vice President.
Voting for Hillary based on Bill's accomplishments is silly. Bill was a uniter. Sound familiar? Hillary isn't. Bill got bipartisan support when the Senate and Congress was majority Republican. Hillary divides.
I think it's a disgrace that Hillary is now attacking NAFTA. She wants to be aligned with Bill when it suits her but because she's now running & needs Ohio, then it's ok to completely about face. I didn't need Obama pointing that out to me, I remember how she praised it.
As a veteran, I also think it's disgraceful of her to use the images of injured soldiers to say that problems she faces are nothing compared to theirs. Wasn't her war vote yes? Instead of loaning 5 mil to a dying campaign, contribute to college funds of some of the soldier's kids whose lives she helped alter.
Lauryn, Houston, TX
A few years from now, Do we really want to wonder what it would have been like if only we had followed our best instincts and elected Barack Obama?
I don't believe that many Americans can deny that a combination of brains ,humility,and hope may be just the thing to help this stumbling nation back to it's feet and down right path.
Brent, Farmington, MO.
You say 'Obama got a taste of McCain’s withering scorn last week ... was called “Al-Qaeda in Iraq". Round one, by general consent, went to McCain.' without correcting a key factual error which is at Al-Qaeda in Iraq is a name taken on by an anti-US and anti-Shiite group after the collapse of Saddam Hussein's grotesque and criminal government. No references to such an organization predate the fall of Bagdad although the current AQI does comprise parts of a rebel group which Saddam Hussein had effectively marginalized but which were left unchalleged in the vacuum left by the US administration. Tragically this is exactly the sort of factual slight of hand that led to our current dead end. In this light McCain's claim amounts to bombing a building and then complaining about the rubble.
Hugo Boom, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, USA
I applaud Madeline's intelligence to realize that if she cannot make an informed and rational decision, she should recuse herself from the process. Bravo Madeline, stay home!
Darwin, Ft Worth, TEXAS BY GOD
"he is preparing to detach the core voters of John McCain"
Oh come on, why would McCain supporters switch to the most left wing senator currently seated ?
Stan(expat), USA, USA
No matter what he says, does anyone seriously believe that Barack Obama would appoint Republicans to his cabinet? It would only happen if the Republicans were so liberal that they were indistinguishable from liberal Democrats.
Earl, Benton, Illinois
Stuart, Obama is the one that said Al Qaeda is still in Iraq! Get your facts straight.
Rhonda
rhonda, Sallisaw, ok
There is no way than Obama or Clinton could ever beat John McCain in the general election, unless McCain says something insane, such as 'If I win, we will stay in Iraq" or, 'There's gonna be wars for a hundred years.'
John Dietrich, Vancouver, Canada
So refreshing to see true democracy in action. Listen up Russia, this is how it 's done.
David Hawkins, Wellington, UK
I dont know what Obama is going to do. He just riles everybody up with cliche catch phrases. I do know that when Clinton was president things were great. Jobs, budget surplus, 1.00 per gallon gas prices, no Iraq war, America was still respected, etc.
J, Austin, TX
America is a great country, a global leader.
The world is hungry ,for long time, to see an American leader who can be honored as great global hero. Obama is a gift of God for America. So protect him.
Lyric Barnik, Dhaka, Bangladesh
Interesting that Barak quoted the prophet Jeremiah... when the person who actually wrote the prophet's words in the Bible was a rare Godly contemporary in Judah named Baruch... Which is the Hebrew version of Barak: both mean "Blessed".
First to notice this?
Joshua, FALLS CHURCH, VA
What matters is perspective and how a person tends to approach challenges and issues. Bush has more experience being president than anyone running for his job. Would you vote for him?
I like the way Obama approaches issues. Its how you tend to solve problems not how many you have dealt with.
Ermias.tebeda, El Paso, TX
Presumably TY of Fairview is a member of the John Bolton school of diplomacy.
M Mantle, Moscow, Russia
Senators Obama, Hagel, and Lugar with help from former Senator Sam Nunn, and Joseph Cirincione at the center for American progress: this is the team that leads on tackling the greatest fear of all: nuclear terrorism. Nuclear weapons and proliferation drive both U.S. foreign policy and defense weapons spending. Fear of nuclear terrorism was the first rationale for the pre-emptive Iraq war. Hagel at Defense is a natural fit for a team that needs to change a nuclear policy that, including Iraq, has cost America more than $7 trillion since 1945.
Senator Lugar may have more influence within the Senate than at State to support this change.
Joseph Cirincione's article in the March 8 issue of New York Review of Books explains this 'Greatest Threat' best, but so far the rest of the U.S. media refuses to change the subject.
As for Mayor Mike, his management strengths are needed to straighten out the Department of Homeland Security.
Karen Kaplan, Bronx, NY and Ashfield MA, USA
"Larry Korb, a defence official under President Ronald Reagan who is backing Obama, said: “By putting a Republican in the Pentagon and the State Department you send a signal to Congress and the American people that issues of national security are above politics.†"
This is nonsense, as if a democrat isn't patriotic and doesn't give a fig for the military. It's the republicans who have narrowed down our military strength, with enlistments declined and wasting our resources and security with the war in Iraq.
Bob, Sacramento, USA, CA
What makes me apprehensive about Obma is his willingness to promise bibartisanship so much that if he wins, he has to to make it come true and in effect water down any legislation to the point of it being meaningless in order to do so. The republicans are not going to change their minds about abortion, Gay rights or the war in Iraq. They made that mind-boggling clear when they walked out a few weeks ago rather than vote on a democratic initiative. The same goes for Obama saying he would talk to those we perceive as our enemies without prior conditions. This sets him up for a desire to come back with anything, and in fact would allow for his caving in to demands by those he talks with.
Bob, Sacramento, USA, CA
Barak Husein Obama and Chuck Hagel, now that's a pair. Of course Hagel couldn't even get support from Nebraska, so he opted out of the Senate rather than face an embarrasing lost to another Republican.
john, kearney,
I think the Republicans are so desperate and are threathened by Obama. Talking to my dad a few days ago, the Republican National Committee sent him a letter asking for his support. It was a strange, as my dad has never gotten a letter from Republicans before. He has always been a long time Democrat. My dad just threw away the letter!
Regarding Iraq, a variety of friends in the military has told me they don't want to go back. One friend had mentioned to me his commanding officer had asked for 6 volunteers in his group to go to Iraq for at least a year. He's been back there at least twice. No one in his group wanted to volunteer either. For those voting for Mccain, since he supports 100 years in Iraq that means you support it. If that's the case, you can volunteer to go to Iraq!
Ann, Pasadena, CA
Grandpa John McCain has no hope nor chance. Obama is special and one in a generation man, people see that.
McCain who is so close to the Bush cabal can shout all he wants too about experience. But what matters is judegment and Obama has that. We will soon hear too how 'heroric' McCain was in the no doubt silly sean full steam that is going to be had.
Sen.Webb is a very good pick for Obama VP. They are the dream team.
Jake Katz, Kansas City, KS, USA
The campaign Obama has run has been BRILLIANT, Hillary has run probably the worst national campaign in history. Regardless of your politics, I expect Obama's campaign as the Democratic nominee to quite possibly be the most innovative and focused ever.
He responded within 4 hours in a very effective manner to McCain's comments about A'Quaida in Iraq. Expect to see a de-emphasis on the 'change' theme and a new emphasis on the 'recognciliation' theme.
You will here 'substantive' proposals and talk about the WH TEAM that will govern. You may even hear Obama admit his deficiencies and talk about the need to surround himself with the 'experience' he lacks.
It will be the Obama TEAM versus John McCain the maverick 'loner'.
Don't underestimate Obama's capability to turn weakness into stregnth. He's doing it daily.
Richard Dulee, Alderson, WV
Typical "research." Chuck Hagel was a "highly decorated" war veteran. Every military person who served in Vietnam received three of the four.
Facts, please, facts...not rhetoric. But not unusual for the press.
john norman, naples,
Why is Vernon Jordan's race sited in this article? It is completely irrelevant to the story, and quite frankly, a bit disturbing.
Damon F., Indiana, US
It would serve him well to choose someone for VP with a military background, perhaps someone like Colin Powell.
Glenn, worcester, us
Senators Obama, Hagel, and Lugar with former Senator Sam Nunn, and Joseph Cirincione at the Center for American progress: this is the team that leads on tackling the greatest fear of all: nuclear terrorism. Nuclear weapons and proliferation drive both U.S. foreign policy and defense weapons spending. Fear of nuclear terrorism was the first rationale for the pre-emptive Iraq war. Hagel at Defense is a natural fit for a team that needs to change a nuclear policy that, including Iraq, has cost America more than $7 trillion since 1945. Some of us can dream of Hagel as VP.
Senator Lugar may have more influence within the Senate than at State to support this change.
Joseph Cirincione's article in the March 8 issue of New York Review of Books explains this 'Greatest Threat' best, but so far the rest of the U.S. media refuses to change the subject.
As for Mayor Mike, his management strengths are needed to straighten out the Department of Homeland Security.
Karen Kaplan, Bronx, NY and Ashfield MA, USA
I would love to see all USA churchs have a special sermon on the Bill of Rights, the first 10 amendments to the Constitution! This first one has to do with the rights of freedom of religion (prohibiting Congressional establishment of one religion over another religion through Law and protecting the right to free exercise of religion), freedom of speech, freedom of the press, freedom of assembly, and freedom of petition. In a recent "street" survey, most people, and all teenagers could not tell one thing about the Bill of Rights! This is guaranteeing that you have the right to even GO to any church you want!!
( By the way, while I have your attention, please plant more lilacs and daphnes, you will be so happy) :)
Miss May, Chattanooga, Tennessee, USA
Picking Lugar and Hagel would probably be a smart move for Obama, and even though I am fairly liberal, I find the possibility of a bipartisan cabinet exciting. I admit that the world would be a worse place if everyone always agreed with me, or with any one person.
mark, La Porte, IN
If I wanted a republican I would have voted for one...this is exactly why I will not cast my important vote for Obama. In his desire for everyone to board the good ship Lollipop...I'll keep Clinton as my choice. She is a true Democrat...Obama maybe should have run as an independent?
Dee Kay, Dallas, TX
madeline what exactly does the middle name have to do with the man and his policies or ability to run a country?
moony, london, uk
I have always thought of Obama as "Republican Lite", meaning he will put into place policies with a Republican bent.
This does nothing to change my mind, only confirming, that he may not be the Democrat for me.
It isn't that he will work with others well, it's that I just cannot figure out where his heart is.
sas, Doylestown, USA/PA
I second the rejection of Madeline Longenecker's comment, as anything but the promoting of ignorant and rascist Values throughout your country. As a citizen of the UK I am worried on the effects to my own life, by the continous bigoted opinions such as your own which linger in the incumbent administration. With the reality of a final modernisation of your countries political system with Obama, still you reject it as a risk, despite a Republican executive, who in two terms have led the country into a un-winnable and un-justified war, as well as threat of economic melt down, and a complete disregard for domestic policy. As an observer to this primary contest, it was at first a credit to your country to see a selection of candidates who do truly reflect the diversity of your nation. Finally I hoped that this campaign would be grounded on the principles of meritocracy over historical prejudices. However, if a name! is what can sway your already rasicst vote then do please stay at home.
Alex , London, Uk
It's interesting that people say they want to vote for someone who has "experience." But what about the issues? Don't they matter? I'm voting for the person who takes the positions on key issues: health care, the war, abortion, foreign policy, with which I agree. This stuff about "experience" is besides the point. No one but the president has the experience of being president; even Clinton claiming she's ready to lead on day one is silly. There's a learning curve with everyone. I want the person in the white house who's not only learning, but ready to apply policy in the direction that I agree with.
Eric, Los Angeles,
I'm not sure what "white" churches you have attended, but most "white" churches promote values that are held regardless of race. If a church I attended promoted "white" values I would be running for the door as would all reasonable people. Promoting "black" values( in a church of all places) is unnecessarily divisive and should be rejected by any reasonable person. How about churches promote all universal positive values without the labels.
Mark, berkley, mi
Madeline, it sounds like Huckabee has th most "Cult like" following. He has the most narrow following only resembling Pat Robertson's campaign 20 years ago. People vote for him aside from policies but on the basis that thier pastor says vote for him. Remove the beam in your own eye before you point out the mote in your neighbors.
Sean, Santa Maria, CA
Why wouldn't a "black church" promote "black" values? That's what white churches do! Oh, and by the way those "black values" that you refer to, are simply the American ideals and dreams for us!
JOYCE, chicago,
Elizabeth Providence stated, "Flawed she is, sure, but who wouldn't be after 35 years in public service. Clinton certainly is unable to match Senator Obama in the "wow" personality department. But then, I've never in my life voted on the basis of who is most likeable. "
-----------------------------
Hillary does NOT have 35 years of public service! She has NEVER been APPOINTED to or ELECTED into public office. Her public service began in 2000 when she carpetbagged her way into NY and was elected as a Senator of NY. Hillary actually has SIX (6) years in the US Senate and accomplished very little.. She is on her 7th year but has been campaigning. Her public service experience is "a fairytale" "Give me a break" (quotes from Bill Clinton applied to Senator Obama"
Mr. Obama has a total of 11 years of public service as senator of Ilinois and US Senator. In three years, he has accomplished much more subtantive legislation than Hillary has in six years.
NinaK, Tacoma, USA / Washington
I'm and independent who has not decided on whom or even
whether I'll cast a vote for in this next election. I do know that
I'm not swept up in the Obama fever mode that so many have
gotten to. I know how very important this is for the country.
The current President said he was change and look what
kind of change we ended up with. Getting things done is
far harder once you get the job if you do not know to work
the ways of Washington D.C. I want more on the actions
and true intentions of my candidate before I cast a vote.
cindy, Gettysburg, USA/PA
If Hillary Clinton does not win the nomination for the Democratic Party, I WILL vote for John McCain. I want someone as the Commander in Chief with experience, not someone that has to learn on the job or by trial and error. I am a Retired Marine of 25 years and I have the confidence that John McCain is the best choice to handle our Foreign Policies regarding Iraq and Afganistan, as well as the War on Terror.
L.D.Hutchinson, St. Louis, Missouri
What wrong in supporting Africa? Farrakhan, said he supported Obama, but Obama didn't ask for his support and had said he doesn't want his support and hate what Farrakhan stand for. Also Farrakahan is against Mix race couples, as Obama comes from a mix race family Farrakahan is aganist Obama, Obama as a white mother. No one is taking notice of racist Farrakahan, so he want to make trouble. Obama is half white and half black, so he be a mad man to be racist he was born from a white woman.
pauline, London, England
Did Huckabee step aside? Why should Clinton if she is numerically not outdone yet? People are tiring of his pixie dust campaign.
For the love of liberty, this man literally said weeks ago he would use intuition to make decisions, if Clinton said that she'd have been laughed out of the race. Really now I do not want first time voters deciding my president. I also do not want intuition to be the tool of choice of my president.
Once and for all YES, Hillary's time as First Lady counts! She travelled as a public representative, gave speeches and forged relationships with individuals in many countries on our behalf, as First Lady. She was the first (besides Eleanor Roosevelt maybe) to be responible for a serious role and not just sit in the corner and choose china and develop a pill habit.
The woman has grit and smarts and heart.
Kay, Richmond,
madeline longenecker,
by all means keep you and your bigoted self home on election day.
I'm not black either, but I'm smart enough not to buy into the "evil negro who's in farrakhan's pocket" smear.
I'm shocked you'd actually raise obama's middle name as an issue. the only issue being, I guess, he's not christian enough for you. and as to cults, snake-handling members of evangelical churches are living the in glass-est of houses. you really shouldn't be pitching stones on this one.
I suppose your candor should be applauded, though.
all I can say is "wow" you've completely up-ended my preconceptions about the narrow-mindedness of the average cow-pie-kicking southerner. thank god your state gets as many votes in the senate as CA, NY, NJ, and IL.
mencken, new brunswick, NJ
I think a growing number of us are feeling left out with our choices at this point. I really hope Huckabee remembers how Reagan responded to the GOP's ignoring him and then his running again and taking the whole election by storm. This could be a dismal four years ahead.
RonB, Bristol, CT
This election choices for president give me cause to want to stay home and not vote for the first time in my adult life. I can't hold my nose tight enough to vote for Hillary Clinton, and have to put up with 4 or 8 more years of Bill Clinton and his lies and adultery.
My greatest fear of Obama is in reading his church's web site, which promotes "black" values, and support for Africa. I am not black, and a black value system means nothing to me. And those who support him, like Farrakhan. And there is him middle name... I have no desire to be led around by someone why has a "cult" like following.
McCain deals with people like Ted Kennedy, a man whom i loathe, and I doubt i can hold my nose enough to vote for him, and his ideas on illegal immigrants.
The only candidate I would consider voting for is Mike Huckabee, and it's doubtful that he will take the nomination. So, I guess I will sit home and not vote.
madeline longenecker, Shelby, NC
How does Hillary Clinton have more experience than Obama? He's held elected positions in government longer than she, unless you give her credit for time her spouse held office!
Damon F. , Indiana, US
Kennedy appointed ROBERT MCNAMARA? Wow, what a great choice that was! Just ask the Veterans who served under this great "Commander"
Ed, Jenkintown, USA
Europe can have Barrak Hussain Obama.America rejects liberalism socialism progressives whatever you feel like calling yourselves at the time. Because that world view simply sucks and frankly America doesn't need to cosy up to you Europeans for that world standing the democrats so much desire.Christianity is virtually gone in Europe and Mohamed is growing.The sooner Europeans get wise to their leftist media the better.We here in america already are.
TY, fairview, nj
Senator Hagel is a senator from my home state of Nebraska. He has been disavowed by Nebraskans and is quitting the Senate because of his rating here. Barack Hussein Obama just named another reason I would not, can not vote for him. Senator Hagle is on the wrong side of about everything Nebraskas believe in.
Jake, doniphan, usa/Ne.
Anybody who thinks that Obama is on the far left should read the Common Dreams web pages, where he is being denounced as Republican Lite, and Ralph Nader is seen as the only person who can save the world.
As for McCain, he strikes me as slightly unhinged, although that is just my feeling about his personality. He really does address everybody as "my friends" every other sentence like an overly eager vacuum cleaner salesman. The point he made about Al Qaida in Iraq was really stupid, and made in his usual way, like it was a really hard strike against Obama. Al Qaida really did come into Iraq after the invasion. Saddam Hussein used to take care of Islamists himself with his secret police. He was secular, remember? And when somebody mentioned that the invasion of Iraq was launched based on a lie, McCain's reply was "That was in the past." But the war is still there, we are stuck with it, and have to stay for now. What's in the past is a lot of lives and billions of dollars.
Christopher Hobe Morrison, Pine Bush, Ulster County, NY, USA
I love the Republicans. Every time they leave the US in a complete mess the Democrats get to sort it out. I then love watching the people vote the Republicans back in after 8 years thinking it will be different this time!
John, Bath, UK
M Mantle, Moscow, Russia - You are indeed correct in that liberal means generous and open-handed, but in America that turns into generous and open-handed with tax dollars taken from the workers and given to those who are perfectly content to not work.
All Presidents work with both parties, and having members of both parties in a cabinet is hardly a new idea. President Bush works well with many democrats. Perhaps if Obama had spent more in the Senate he would be aware of that and it would not be considerd newsworthy..
Linda, New York City, USA
Honestly, when selecting a president, it's about leadership skills more than anything else. For years I was a rabid Republican who would vote the party line because of fears of "socialism". Now I watch our Republican president spend more money (outside of the war budget, so don't use that excuse) than President Clinton did. He's not veto'd a bill yet. There's no law he's not liked.
The biggest boost America can get will come from a charismatic leader who can rally the people together. Pride in our president and our country will restore hope and every facet of our lives.
For this reason, as a life-long Republican, former member of the Republican Central Committee in California and U.S. Navy vet, I'll be casting my vote for Obama this year. For the first time in a long time, I'm excited about our future!
Paul, Jupiter, FL
After reading all the comments it is very apparent that once again America will lose. Wake up people!!!! It is NOT about being a Democrat or a Republican! It is suppose to be about the PEOPLE!!! When will the Party Elites be defeated and the Government is once more set up as it is meant to be according to the CONSTITUTION! BY THE PEOPLE, FOR THE PEOPLE!!!! It should NEVER be about a Party but about the most QUALIFIED PERSON to hold the highest office in the land decided by THE PEOPLE not some lame Electorate College or any other means, ONLY BY THE PEOPLE! We of America have just about let our country go down due to Party Politics. Maybe we should spell our country AMERIKA!!! Remeber that show? How far away are we from that state now! GOD BLESS and HELP AMERICA and her PEOPLE!!!
Dr. Panda, Fayetteville, AR, USA
here here mr. boone!! the dems promise it all but how to pay. they say obama's bill so far is almost 900 billion for all the goodies he is promising. guess anyone like myself who works hard for their family and makes a decent wage better find a spot in the socialist line for some of those handouts because there going to take all i make away!!! course there will be a means test and gov't forms to fill out.
no thanks, no socialist hillbama for me.
bob, newnan,ga,
If you claim to have any idea what the hell this guy stands for.
You ARE an idiot... Because he has never told anyone. HOPE and CHANGE don't mean anything without a realistic plan (or any plan for that matter). Think before you vote. I swear, Americans are like a bunch of Hanna Montana fans. "The media says to like the guy, my friends like the guy, good enough." THINK!!!
Worried, Washington, DC
jacksmith of Dallas - Who, Republicans crossing over to vote for Obama? How did you know? We've been crossing over in droves just to sandbag the Democratic party! At the end of the day, the South is ready for a female president, but, the South is NOT ready for an African-American president. When Obama is the nominee and our sandbagging work is done, the South will be carried by the Republicans and we have the delegates - go ahead, win North Dakota, Idaho, sure, they count as states, but, how many people live in the great fridgid north? Yeah, you can have those delegates - Georgia, Alabama, all of the Southern states have MORE delegates. Just practice saying President McCain. The South will deliver the votes and the Presidency to the Republicans. Jack - how'd you know? Snuffed out ! The truth is out!
Sandbagger, Talahassee, USA, FL
From what I have heard, isn't McCain thinking of doing the same thing (involving the opposite party in his administration); I've heard that he plans to include moderate Democrats the same way Obama says he now plans to include moderate Republicans? Obama is not the first candidate to consider this.
"Hagel would be a good choice as Obama's Secretary of Defense. He opposed the Iraq war, and is a moderate man with a strong military and foreign policy background"
Is whether or not they originally opposed the war now the litmus test in the Democratic party? Certainly seems to be. But, when Obama says he opposed it, he wasn't even on the Senate yet. No one knows how he would have voted if he had been a Senator. And, he's already said he'd go back to Iraq if Al Qaeda had bases there, so, it seems to me, that, if he had been a Senator and was given the same "intelligence" that other Senators had been given, that he would have probably voted the same way as Clinton.
Phyllis, silver spring, md
Brilliant strategy by Obama, on so many levels; and he improves every day (are there no boundaries whatsoever?). Nobody in my lifetime has given me more reason to hope.
My message to the skeptics:
Brace yourself for a profound enlightenment -- the moment you cease to dismiss his message as rhetoric, when you begin to understand what makes his simple message resonate to powerfully, a near religious experience may await you.
I not so eloquent, but 1 element of his message so many overlook:
When Sen. Obama says "we need your help," it does not translate into a politician saying "I need your vote." Indeed, it trascends even JFK's call to service ("ask not..."). The message resonates on a far deeper level -- something like what The Oracle says in The Matrix: "I'm interested in one thing, Neo, the future. And believe me kiddo, I know, the only way we're gonna get there is together."
Our very name begins with the word (UNITED), yet we have allowed ourselves to be divided.
Kevin, Elk Grove, CA
YOU MIGHT BE AN IDIOT:-)
If you think Barack Obama with little or no experience would be better than Hillary Clinton with 35 years experience.
You Might Be An Idiot!
If you think that Obama with no experience can fix an economy on the verge of collapse better than Hillary Clinton. Whose ;-) husband (Bill Clinton) led the greatest economic expansion, and prosperity in American history.
You Might Be An Idiot!
If you think that Obama with no experience fighting for universal health care can get it for you better than Hillary Clinton. Who anticipated this current health care crisis back in 1993, and fought a pitched battle against overwhelming odds to get universal health care for all the American people.
You Might Be An Idiot!
If you think that Obama with no experience can manage, and get us out of two wars better than Hillary Clinton. Whose ;-) husband (Bill Clinton) went to war only when he was convinced that he absolutely had to. Then completed the mission in record time against a nuclear power. AND DID NOT LOSE THE LIFE OF A SINGLE AMERICAN SOLDIER. NOT ONE!
You Might Be An Idiot!
If you think that Obama with no experience saving the environment is better than Hillary Clinton. Whose ;-) husband (Bill Clinton) left office with the greatest amount of environmental cleanup, and protections in American history.
You Might Be An Idiot!
If you think that Obama with little or no education experience is better than Hillary Clinton. Whose ;-) husband (Bill Clinton) made higher education affordable for every American. And created higher job demand and starting salary's than they had ever been before or since.
You Might Be An Idiot!
If you think that Obama with no experience will be better than Hillary Clinton who spent 8 years at the right hand of President Bill Clinton. Who is already on record as one of the greatest Presidents in American history.
You Might Be An Idiot!
If you think that you can change the way Washington works with pretty speeches from Obama, rather than with the experience, and political expertise of two master politicians ON YOUR SIDE like Hillary and Bill Clinton..
You Might Be An Idiot!
If you think all those Republicans voting for Obama in the Democratic primaries, and caucuses are doing so because they think he is a stronger Democratic candidate than Hillary Clinton. :-)
Best regards
jacksmith...
jacksmith, Dallas, Texas
Obama seems on the brink of actually "walking the talk" if he eschews party membership to surround himself with what could be described as 'the best talent available". What a novel idea. I guess he really IS serious about getting elected by reaching out to disaffected independents such as me (and several of my friends who are in a 'watching and hoping" mode.
Terry Ott, Reno, USA/Nevado
Both Obama and Hillary are socalist and will lose in Nov 08 to the RINO McCain. Go Mike Huckabee!.
Willy, Chesapeake, USA
Bush could care less about the Blue state/Red state divide. President Clinton had Republicans in his cabinet and Reagan showed respect for Tip O'Neill and the Democratic Leadership. I am positive that Obama would bring Republicans into the fold and it would be great to have guys like Luger or Hagel serving the American people in an Obama administration.
Geoff, Ann Arbor, MI, USA
Any "Republican" that Barack Hussein Obama appoints to any position, even floorsweeper, will be a Republican in name only.
Those names mentioned in the article are just as liberal on many issues as Congressional Democrats! And Bloomberg was never really a Republican, as we can clearly see now.
Asa for the courageous poster, M(ickey) Mantle from Moscow, if you lived in America and were a captialist, you wouldn't have the wrong definition of "liberal" and would easily understand why nobody wants to wear that name. It is synonymous with "anti-American socialist".
Ricardo Maxwell, Orange Park, FL USA
M Mantle,
Unfortunately, in the US, the term liberal was stolen by socialists. US liberals wish to tax you for all your worth, grow the size of government with wasteful and inefficient programs, and basically be your nanny. They are the antithesis of economic freedom and constitutional limited government. That is the Democrat Party of today. Barack Obama is truly a socialist and has been rated the most "liberal" of all Senators. Policy wise, Hillary Clinton is hardly any different. The Democrat nomination is basically a personality contest.
Many US conservatives are strongly for economic liberty and limited government while others are more concerned about social morality or Christian values. Basically, the Republican party contains both groups. Of the Republican candidates, Ron Paul is the most fiscally conservative while Mike Huckabee is the most socially conservative. The two groups don't always get along, but then there are people who fit into both groups.
E Boone
E Boone, St. Michael, Minnesota, USA
These articles always amuse me. Not for their content, but for the mad harvest of raving right-wing lunatics that comment on them and boy has this one produced a bumper crop!
Tim, Eric W, T June, Eric (gotta love the redheaded stepchild reference), AF, Malcolm, gb, Karl, robertv and allen all prove that bigotry and fuzzy logic are alive and well in the republican movement.
The saddest part of their misguided views is that over a thousand soldiers and countless innocent civilians have had to die for the big Bush lie that Al-Qaeda was linked to Iraq.
Obama was right when he judged that attacking Iraq was a mistake, is right about needing to focus on Afghanistan (which is where Al-Qaeda is really based) and is right about wanting to talk to Iran (which, as anyone with a modicum of Islamic factional knowledge would know, is also anti Al-Qaeda).
If beating the terrorists really is the big issue in this election then Barack Hussein Obama is clearly the right man for the job!
Stuart, Benalmadena Costa, Spain
The truth is Hillary is a weak candidate. Her handling of healthcare, the vote in Iraq, and even this campaign should be a clear warning sign that she is not ready for the job that she seeks.
John Adams, Gainesville, Florida
I have never understood why being a "liberal" is considered a bad thing in the US.
A person who is a liberal (noun) is one who is open-minded or not strict in the observance of orthodox, traditional, or established forms or ways. To be liberal (adjective) is to be considered generous, giving and open-minded.
The liberal party in the UK is associated with ideals of individual especially economic freedom, greater individual participation in government, and constitutional, political, and administrative reforms designed to secure these objectives. Sounds like a grand objective to me. Do you not want economic freedom and greater participation in Government?
So if the US is not ready for someone who is open-minded then you deserve Bush and his dangerous neo-con policies. However the rest of the world wishes much different.
M Mantle, Moscow, Russia
There are no Canadians fighting in Afghanistan eh? Barack is doing a pretty good job at failing to impress his northern neighbours after the little NAFTA fiasco.
Rob Gillezeau, Ann Arbor, United States
I applaud Mr. Obama for looking past party lines. This country would be better off with politicians who answered to the people and not to their respective parties.
If you are against this, then you are part of the problem whether you are a Democrat or a Republican.
Alexander, Coos Bay, OR.
A recent poll stated that 20% of white Democrats will vote for McCain if Obama is the Dem nominee.
McCain will beat Obama in November.Once the nation gets more of an understanding into Obama's liberal mindset, McCain will become the clear front-runner in the General Election.
Obama would be the most liberal President in U.S. history. The country is not ready for that.
Allen, Savannah, Georgia
"Republicans have about destroyed this country?" What country is he talking about? England? In the U.S., we have enjoyed economic growth and stability for years. Taxes are low, interest rates are low, unemployment, although recently up a tick, has been low for years. I get it. Because healthcare isnt free, and we had to win a war, things are a mess. Poor stupid, emotional people. They just dont get that its not all about their precious feelings.
robertv, long beach, ca / usa
"...The biggest and, I dare say, the most important states, want Mrs Clinton..."
Actually, the biggest states are not the most important. One of the things that make Obama so attractive is that he will truly be President of the United States, not just the biggest or the ones considered important. He has campaigned vigorously in every single state that has had a primary so far.
The result of that is he has won more states, more delegates and is ahead by about a million in the popular vote. The fact that Clinton won a handful of states that will vote Democrat regardless of whether she is the nominee or not, is pretty much irrelevant.
Oh, and the person I want answering the phone at 3 a.m. is the person who tries to anticipate every possible outcome of their actions...not the person who doesn't plan for the contingency that we can't get in and out of Iraq the way we got in and out of the first Gulf War, or for the contingency that the nomination will not be wrapped up by February 5.
Rebecca, Las Vegas, NV
While I applaud Obama for willing to be non-partisan...is Robert McNamarra, architect of the Vietnam War, really a good example? Although I am heartened that the reason he would consider such a person would be their anti-war stance.
I would hope that this would not turn John from Xenia away from Obama, as Hillary is far more of a militarist. Whatever the party affiliation, Obama is actually the only one of the candidates I trust to handle the war and that includes McCain.
Joe C, 29 Palms, CA, USA
No we do not want to see a President Obama or a VP Edwards. Our economy here in the US is already on the edge and more taxes and regulation is not the pill we need. Rather we need less regulation and more free market encouragement. Bush has kept us safe for 7 years and McCain was correct with his Al-Qaeda comment. The strategy of Iraq has been a correct one and has merit. It is better to fight the terrorists in one central location rather than on the streets of NYC or London. The results are concrete - since the invasion of Iraq, the suicide bombings in Israel stopped (they were paid for by Saddam if you recall - $30,000 per family), Kudafi stopped his nuke program, North Korea has hedged back and the Pakistan and India nuke situation has subsided.....one should learn from their school days...bullies do not back down with words.....the bottom line is that the terrorists do not want to mess with the US now...but with an Obama in the White House that could change.....
Karl , Chicago, IL
To hear the Democrats' version of recent history, you'd think Bush hired school buses to ferry Al Qaeda fighters into Iraq.
However Al Qaeda got there and regardless of their motivations, it's a good place for the US to engage them since the US military is there to do it. And by all accounts, including Al Qaeda themselves, they are being routed.
gb, Austin, USA
Tim in Charlotte - That is actually false even if erroniously printed when that information was first dissemenated by the Bush admin. It has been clearly established that Saddam hated Al Queda and considered them a threat to his power. Subsequently, he hunted them down like dogs and killed them in cold blood. The only Al Queda presence in Iraq was infiltration from Iran along their common border and that was as far as they were going to go. Dig a little deeper before you make up your mind about Bush's lies.
Darwin, Ft Worth, TEXAS BY GOD
The Obama campaign really pulled one over on this reporter. Sen. Chuck Hagel is probably even less popular among Republicans than Joe Lieberman is among Democrats.
Manuel, Los Angeles, CA
John from OH--Please do not change your vote from Obama because he reaches across the aisle to Republicans when he can. Obama has co-sponsored some of the best legislation with Republicans, such as the nuclear non-proliferation bill he co-sponsored with Lugar. The ability to work with people in the party opposite one's own is a strength we need in a president who will get things accomplished, and this stands in contrast to H. Clinton's political divisiveness, which gets nothing accomplished--just recall the health care debacle of the 90s. Obama's ability to attract Republican support is one more reason we Democrats should continue to support him. I've already voted early for him, and my elderly mother, who has not voted for a Democrat for president since LBJ, also voted in the Democratic primary for Obama. She will also vote for him if he's our nominee. This ability to unite the country in a common purpose is just what the US needs at this point in history--not more divisiveness.
John, Austin, TX, USA
Very intruiging article; I had my doubts about Obama but if he really pulls through and if he really delivers on these promises of working closely with Republicans, I can really see this country going forward under his leadership. I KNOW, on the other hand, that Hillary would never consider Republicans for her cabinet and she will continue the same divisive politics we have seen thus far..
Joe , Baltimore, MD
the socialists are ruining the US - look at the state of the UK. Its a wreck. Looks more like lil India or lil Pakistan than the UK. I hate England now - it is a joke of country.
Elect Osama or Hitlery and the US will follow suit. McCain is liberal enough - minimize the damage and elect McCain - for the sake of the world. Enough is enough with the socialism.
Malcolm, Sufolk, UK
Hillary Clinton will prevail on Tuesday, despite early and erroneous reports of her campaign's demise. She has been and will be the best candidate to lead the country. Smart, seasoned, persevering, an old hand at getting things done, a recognized leader in other countries and an icon of change for America, which has been so slow to name women leaders.
Flawed she is, sure, but who wouldn't be after 35 years in public service. Clinton certainly is unable to match Senator Obama in the "wow" personality department. But then, I've never in my life voted on the basis of who is most likeable.
I look forward to Hillary Clinton proving the media pundits wrong once more with wins this Tuesday and going on to lead our country with a cool head and firm hand. I wish her luck.
Elizabeth, Providence,
Gordon from London, that was Vincent Foster, not Vernon Jordan, get YOUR facts right.
Daniel Slade, Iowa City, Iowa
Again you're hiding Obama's full name; Barak Hussien Obama.
A.F., Nevada, USA
If you morons knew anything about these "Republicans", you would know that they are far from conservatives. It's nice to see that you make decisions on politicians based entirely on the letter next to their name.
Tom, Boston,
Seriously, you marxists can be that misguided. "Republicans have about destroyed this country."? CLUELESS would be more appropriate here. Who has an approval rating in the low 20%? OH, that's right, the democratically controlled Congress.
It's all for naught, anyway. Obama will be beaten by McCain like a redheaded stepchild.
Eric, Murrells Inlet, SC
I am confused. I can't tell Democrats from Republicans anymore. In New York they are Democrat yesterday, Republican today and tommorow Democrat. It just depends which way the wind is blowing and what they can get for themselves.
Who cares!!
RoyLindy, Buffalo, NY
Sarah; might you be slightly behind the news? Vernon Jordan is an ex-parrot. Officially, he killed himself by himself in a park with his own pistol and own bullet. Ten years ago.
Gordon, London, UK
I think this is a smart move on Obamas part. I agree that we need people that are progressive, but there ARE those people that have broken with the narrow minded conservative views and Chuck Hagel is one of them. If Obama can gut the high handed foreign policy arrogance of McCain before it gets off the ground...good for him and for us.
You can bet he won't be dealing with the Republican party elite that is beholden to the special interests fueling the war machine.
Greg A, Clearwater , FL
OK, so we need to put back do-nothing, high spending, tax hiking Democrats back into office? Are you kidding me? After 8 years of Clinton's no much of a presidency, where Al Queda basically grew and spread (I guess a terrorist act a year during his presidency was not a wakeup call), sorry no. We don't want any lightweights back in office who want to coddle the enemy, bring socialism to our lives, and become a nanny state who tells us what to eat, drink and do.
No thanks...I'll move to the Caymans if that happens.
T June, San Jose, CA
Those on the far left are going to have to realize that their once very liberal candidate will have to move very much to the center or even right of center a bit to have a chance of winning this in the general election. MOST of Americans simply arent into european type socialism and cozying up to dictators and thugs of the planet. Period.
Angela, small town, USA
Excellent article.
This guy--Obama--thinks ahead like no other US pol I've seen. His insinuations that independent people such as Hagel and Lugar might just wind up in his cabinet in the most influential and prestigious positions is a stroke of genius.
He's going to win. He's going to be the first non-white president of the USA.
And he may be an historic one in other ways as well.
Fredrick Bernanke, San Siego, CA/USA
Hagel would be a good choice as Obama's Secretary of Defense. He opposed the Iraq war, and is a moderate man with a strong military and foreign policy background. In a general election this would go over well and help Obama defeat McCain.
Karen, San Diego, CA
--Republicans have about destroyed this country. We DON''T need anymore republicans [...] --- This may cause me to vote for Hillary. I was an Obamaican.--
The whole point of everything Obama has been saying is that we need to stop being so partisan and come together. By hiring Republicans, he is doing exactly as he promised, healing America and bringing us together. If you trust him enough before he mentioned that, why are you not trusting of his judgment when he is saying these people are good and qualified? Why is it that you're neglecting to see the key point here is to bring us back together as Americans and not as this roiling mass of people that can see nothing but skin color or donkeys and elephants, and that if you're one or the other you're wrong/bad/disgusting/etc?
It's a shame that you're going to turn your back on the very thing he's been touting since the start. I, for one, am sick of that mode of thinking - that somehow, you're either for us or against us. Sick.
Nicole G., Albuquerque, NM/USA
Obama will be our badly needed unifier. Both democrats and republicans should serve. The best people for the job should serve. That is what this country deserves.
John Swofford, Hammond, LA
Senator Obama and all the folks who want to revise even recent history about terrorism in Iraq should really try typing one or all of these names into an Internet Search Engine:
Ansar al-Islam
Salafiah al-Mujahidiah
Jama'at al-Tawhid Wa'al-Jihad
Abu-Dajanah al-Iraqi
Abu-Hilalah Ahmad Fadil Nazzal al-Khalayilah
Abu-Mus'ab al Zarqawi
Loa'i Mohammad Haj Bakr al-Saqa
I know those aren't bumper-sticker'esque names, but I guess actual facts will just have to do.
Eric W., Seattle, WA
Mark in NY- The 9-11 Commission and an ABC News report both stated the fact that Al-Qaeda had a presence in Iraq before we went to war.
Tim , Charlotte, NC
If Senator Obama is willing to reach across party lines to fill his Cabinet, then that only makes my support for him stronger. It is time that the American people insist that our politicians learn how to work together and compromise for the sake of us, the citizens.
Politicians have made our government about two things only: Republicans and Democrats. There are so many issues that have nothing to do with those labels; and if those labels were dropped from any discussions, then compromise and working solutions could be found and implemented.
This is a time that America has got to let go of the politics of the past and look for who is best versus a party name in terms of our political/government leaders.
ML, Camden,
There are plenty of qualified democrats to fill these posts.
Phil Jamison, Lincoln, Nebraska
Republicans have about destroyed this country. We DON''T need anymore republicans, we need more Democrats that are willing to fight for Progressive Policies. This may cause me to vote for Hillary. I was an Obamaican.
John Stinson, Xenia, Ohio
"Obama got a taste of McCain’s withering scorn last week when he was ridiculed for appearing to suggest in a televised debate with Clinton that Al-Qaeda was not in Iraq. “I have news for you,†McCain chided him. The terrorist group was already there and was called “Al-Qaeda in Iraq". Round one, by general consent, went to McCain."
Yes, there was much self satisfied laughter when McCain made this comment. It only remained for Obama to point out the next time he was in front of the cameras that, in fact, Al-Qaeda was not in Iraq until the republican party of the United States invaded it. Round one, by republican consent, McCain. Round one by common sense, Obama.
Mark, NY,
Too many assumptions too soon. The biggest and, I dare say, the most important states, want Mrs Clinton, something the British media should recognise, not to mention their stateside counterparts. If it takes suing the local Democratic party, so be it - the incumbent president went to the Supreme Court. Only Mrs Clinton can successfully oppose John McCain and frankly I'd rather she be awakened at 3:00 a.m. than her opponent.
David Cunard, Los Angeles, United States
I am not a Hillary supporter, though I will support her whole-heartedly if she becomes the Democratic nominee. I do not agree with her statements that the press has been generally unfairly harsh on her and easy with Obama. That said, this article is out of line. No one will have to "tell" Hillary to drop out. She will decide on her own. I'm sure she's already consulted many people about many possibilities. The implication that her husband may have to "step in" and tell her what's what is, well, sexist. There, I said it. I'm a teacher and a woman who supports Obama, as I think he's the better choice, but that doesn't mean I can't deny sexism when I see it. Do some real reporting and look closely at Obama and Hillary's education plans. Obama has a more teacher and community friendly plan that, while heavily funding education, emphasizes local community decision-making for how to use federal funds. Report on that!
Anne, Baltimore, MD
Yes, Senate Majority Leader will suit Hillary Clinton very nicely! President Barack Obama and Vice President John Edwards is what we want to see.
EP, Stevenage, UK
Ladies and Gentlemen:
To refer to Senator Barack Obama as a “black†presidential candidate or as potentially the first “black†president is actually incorrect because Barack Obama is biracial meaning that he is 50% white and 50% black. Since his father was a black African from Kenya and his mother a white American from Kansas it would seem most appropriate to describe his ethnicity as African-American or biracial but not "black" since he is 50% white. Thankyou.
Robert Westafer, Long Beach, CA, USA