Democratic debate at Brave New Films

This is too important for us....

2008-08-29T20:30:42Z

"Videotoon" extract of recent Dem Debate

Democratic Debate #18,778,780.02 set for April

2008-03-21T14:16:01Z

Will sparks fly? Will the candidates hug? Will Hillary Hussein Clinton pull out Barack Hussein Obama's chair this time?

The ABC News debate, which both Democratic candidates agreed to earlier this month, has been set for April 16 in Philadelphia at 8:00pm. The debate will be anchored by Charles Gibson and George Stephanopoulos.
ABC saw huge ratings for its most recent round of debates, back-to-back Democratic and Republican debates in January.
There is still no confirmation on a possible CBS debate, speculated to take place April 19 in North Carolina.

I hope Obama wears a flag pin. I wouldn't want anyone thinking he's unpatriotic or anything. By the way, he's black. And Christian.

The Great Hollywood Debate

2008-08-29T20:21:29Z

Citizen Kate finally feels like a Hollywood Starlet at the Democratic Debates in California. I can't believe I scored one of the hottest tickets in LA, the CNN/Politico.com/Los Angeles Times Democratic Debate at the Kodak Theatre. I know, that's where the Oscars are. It's almost as if I finally made it. I couldn't wait to meet Barack Obama and Hillary Clinton. Then, I discovered that there's more to life than politics. There's fame. Hollywood was fantastic. Even if the people looked dirty. Seriously, Elvis said he hadn't changed his outfit in 20 years. I spread peace and hugs to Sponge Bob Square Pants and Spiderman, but I don't think that either of them showered in days. Sponge Bob left a stain on my right boob with his dirty nose. You can see it in my latest vblog. Check out it out!

Watch the video

Democratic debate: The media's take vs. ours

2008-03-16T10:51:49Z

Nearly every comment I've read, heard, and seen reflect the relatively benign nature of last night's debate between Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama:

"It was a draw" was the conclusion I heard most often. "Nobody won, nobody lost...which means Hillary lost, since she needed a knockout win" was the other one. Oh, and let's not forget the ever-popular "Yawn", "Boring", and "Nothing new".

Constrast those with the media headlines I've been seeing since last night:

Obama and Clinton clash in testy debate
Clinton, Obama Slug It Out In Ohio
Clinton, Obama Clash Over NAFTA, Iraq
In Ohio, a Contentious Debate
Democrats Clash on Trade, Health and Tactics

If only I'd been there to liveblog it, I might have witnessed all that vicious brawling. Drats. For now, I'll just have to trust the corporate media to tell me how to think.

TPMtv: When Russerts Attack

2008-06-18T03:31:59Z

The standout performance of last night was Tim Russert's repeated tirades at the candidates for not answering his clownish questions. So we thought we'd string all of Tim's gonzo moments into one tight reel. Let's all repeat together, "I'm rough enough, I'm tough enough, and doggone it, people like me!"

Watch the video

Russert Plays the Farrakhan Card

2008-06-18T03:31:53Z

Tim Russert moderates the Democratic Presidential Debate between Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama, February 26 2008

Watch the video

"Field goals won't resurrect Hillary Clinton"

2008-03-15T14:46:52Z

That's a quote from Keith.

Quick notes on commentary:

Tweety thought it was notable that Hillary would take back her Iraq vote. And we missed some of the big issues, like Kosovo.

Andrea Mitchell: Best sound bite by Obama: When Hillary made the decision to drive the bus into the ditch (re: Iraq).

Hill presents herself as a fighter, and was credible about it.

Tweety: Obama has a superb advantage in oratory department, but not in debates. Only when he has a teleprompter. Pay attention people!

Keith: He's inflappable. Hillary had a balancing act not to appear peevish.

David Gregory: She failed at that, in the beginning. Barack has a coolness and absorbs attacks, acknowledges and turns it around The Jewish question was a microcosm: He denounced Farrakhan. Hillary said, reject it, be more pointed. That could have been a slip up for him, but he defused the issue by rejecting AND denouncing. He deflected effectively.

Keith: NAFTA: He had a certain calmness, he let a point go, gave her credit and was willing to do that.

Re: SNL quotes, "first question" quotes:

Keith: She got first question 6 out of 10 debates, but is contradicted by her statement about being happy to answer them. Something didn't connect.

Gregory: She wanted to attack on health care, got the first question on change in tone, and went into health care. She got to set the tone because she got the first question.

Tim: This isn't rocket science. We distribute the questions fairly. It's the answers, not the questions.

Democratic Debate, part cinque: Closers

2008-03-16T10:48:20Z

A little Italiano for you cinque lovers.

Brian: What must Hill answer to prove her worthiness?

O: She's worthy as a nominee. I'd be better or I wouldn't be running. She's capable, qualified, better than McCain. He's Bush II on economics, on foreign policy. So, I dont think Hill has to answer to her capablilities. The reason I'm better as the nominee: I can bring country together in a unique way. That's what's required to deliver on the issues. And my track record from my 20s, I bring a unique bias in favor of opening up government, pushing back special interests, let voices be heard.

Hill: There is no doubt we both feel strongly about our country, we have energy and commitment to the race. It's been an honor to campaign, history making campaign. Being first woman president would be a sea change [APPLAUSE]. Either of us will make history. The question: Who can actually change the country. My experience gives me an understanding of how best to do that. I didn't give up (health care issue). I want to help the people of this country get the chances they deserve to have. We need a fighter back in the White House. We need a president for working people.

Democratic Debate, part IV: Liberalness, Foreign affairs

2008-03-16T10:48:35Z

Roman numerals are so classy.

Brian: Voting record is more liberal than Ted Kennedy's!!!!! OMG!

O: Let's take a look at our ratings: Hill and I differed on 2 votes. One, immigration issue. Bad policy question. Second: I supported an office of public integrity to monitor ethics investigations, important for public to know about violations not being investigated by senators themselves. According to National Journal, that's being liberal. I don't think so. So the categories don't make sense! So why am I attracting Independents and Repubs? Because I make sense, fight for them, fight special interests, etc. etc. I beat McCain in match ups.

Tim: Mr. Putin's successor.

Hill: He's hand picked, by Putin, controlled by Putin. A clever but transparent way for Putin to retain power. I've been critical of BushCo's incoherent policy toward Russia. We need a more realistic, effective strategy. As president, the meetings may be with the president, the decisions will be Putin's. [couldn't pronounce his name]

O: Hill is accurate. He was hand picked. Mocked Bush's "looking into eyes into soul" quote. Then Bush messed up. We didn't tell Putin we're serious about human rights, international cooperation. We have to change that.

We have to work with community on Kosovo. We have a strong international structure anchored in NATO. We're not isolated. Bush deserves credit for coalition that has functioned...not perfect...but saved lives. Kosovo has potential to build a democracy.

Tim: Any vote to take back?

Hill: I wouldn't vote on Iraq that way again, even though it was a sincere vote. I disagreed with preemptive war. The election is about the future, what we'll inherit. We could have talked about Latin America, Africa, ending genocide, China's challenges, Hamas, etc. My experience and unique qualifications equip me to handle problems and make tough decisions. We don't have much time. I want my vote back, yes.

O: My first year in Senate, we had Teri Schiavo situation. We allowed Congress to interject itself. I wasn't comfortable with it, but I didn't stop it. I made a mistake. An example of inaction. We have gone thru 20 debates now. There's still a lot of fight going on in this contest, but Hill has campaigned magnificently, she's an outstanding public service, and I'm proud to campaign with her. We need to deliver for the American people. Vanity and ambition aside. We hear story after story, heartbreaking, modest expectations, just a little bit of a hand up (foreclosure, college), it is absolutley critical we change how business is done in Washington. I know either one of us will restore that sense of public service to our government.

Democratic debate, part trois: Obama's hyperbole, financing campaigns, anti-Semitism

2008-03-17T07:30:40Z

Yes, I know, I said "Part Dos" and then "Part Trois". This blog is known for its diversity.

Brian: Calling you out on hyperbole.

O: Sounds good. [after watching Hillary mocking his speeches] I thought Hill showed some good humor, I'd give her points for delivery. [she laughs loudly]. She typically characterizes speeches, not solutions. I've spent 20 years working for people who want the American dream. I'm proud of that track record. If she thinks it's all talk, tell the people who benefited from my work (paraphrased), ethics reform for lobbyists, special interests. I want and have worked for a gov't that's more responsive to families. I'm not interested in talk, speeches. I'll put an economic agenda forward: College, etc.

H: I was having a little fun. It's hard to find time to have fun on the campaign trail. Trying to get health insurance for all won't be easy. I know it takes a fighter, toe to toe with special interests. I can get back $55 billion from the special interests. I want to invest it into the middle class, college, health care. I voted no on Cheney's energy bill, O voted yes. I voted yes on credit card bill, he voted no. [Hope I just got that right]

Brian: Here's what O said about you. [shows clip] assertion that Hill has cast herself as co-president.

O: She's including her first lady years when she talks. That's fine, it's relevant experience. But I maintain that you can't take credit for the good things, but NAFTA, the other things, you disagree. Take responsibility AND credit. Also: My objecting to caps on credit cards? I objected the entire bill, that she voted for. Re: Being a fighter on health care. Her approach in '93 was wrong in part because just fighting isn't enough...she fought her own party. You have to bring people together. Hope is not enough. Health care isn't easy, nor is energy. Exxon made a ton of money and won't give that up. BUT,the only way to get this done is to mobilize and inspire people to pay attention. Nothing romantic or silly about that. Activate people. And, go after special interests. But don't take millions in contributions from them.

Tim: Keeping your word: Last year you said you'd opt for public financing. Now McCain is calling your bluff. You seem to be waffling. Why won't you keep your word in writing?

O: I'm not yet the nominee. If I am, I will sit down with McCain and make sure we have a fair system for both sides. There are loopholes, and McCain is trying to explain his actions (accepting $). But I haven't taken money from lobbysists, and that the American people would finance us, small donors, and they have. I will work it out where it works for everybody.

Tim: Hill won't release tax records. Why not? Where'd you get your money?

H: The American people are bankrolling my campaign. We average a million $ a day. I will release them, as others have, upon becoming the nominee...or earlier. The public has 20 years of records on me. Not by Tuesday, I can't. I'm busy. But I'll work on it.

Tim: 10,000 pages of your schedule for 8 years...release it?

H: Absolutely. ASAP. Bush claims the right to look at that, so he needs to hurry up too.

Democratic debate, part dos: foreign policy

2008-03-16T10:41:00Z

Yes, part dos.

Foreign policy: Hill compared you to Bush, inexperience, credibility on national security.

O: Hill equates experience with longevity in Washington. Not an accurate measure. Take Iraq and my vote for example. We're bogged down that McCAin says will go another 100 years. Pakistan: I suggested we need a new approach to Musharraf, but terrorists too. People said you can't target terrorists, you'll offend Musharraf. If we'd done that, we'd be further along. My judgment's been sound.

Brian: O qualified to be commander in chief?

Hill: I have extensive experience, N. Ireland, Beijing, etc. Every time this comes up, O rightly points to his 2002 speech. I commend that speech. Fair comparison is he didn't have to vote, By 2004 he said he agreed with Bush. In Senate, we voted exactly the same. So, when we both had responsiblity, not just a speech, but action, where's the difference? He basically threatened to bomb Pakistan [O is smiling]. I disagree with his idea of meeting with the worst dictators w/o preconditions or what we'd get from it. Look at what I've done: Travelling, meetings, serving on Senate Armed Services Committee. I have a better case to make on a range of issues. I can hold my own, and make the case for change.

O: My objections to Iraq were not just "a speech". I was specific as to why I opposed the war. This isnt just an I told you so. The Iraq vote wasnt' a strategic blunder...we drove a bus into the ditch. She was ready to give in to Bush on Day One on this issue. She enabled Bush, damaging to U.S.

I didnt' say I'd bomb...I said if we had actionable intel, and Pakistan couldn't strike, we should. We just did that, and took out an Al Qaeda official. It was the right strategy. My claim is based on judgments over the course of MY service on the Committee, not just a speech. The debate against McCain is one I welcome. She recently changed positions.

Tim: If Iraqi gov't questioned pulling out troops, and said go home now, would you leave?

O: If they say get out, we need to leave. They're a sovereign gov't as Bush likes to remind us. We have to send a clear signal that we aren't there permanently. I'll call in chiefs of staff and give ample time to negotiate agreements, politically, and provide support. But we can't be held hostage to a bad policy and cost us lives and money.

H: I would listen to them (Iraq gov't). There's no military solution.

Tim: If we got out, and Al Qaeda resurges and Iraq goes to hell, would you reinvade?

H: You're asking a lot of hypotheticals. We need an orderly w/drawal. I've been pushing Bush to do that, to have a plan. We can take out 1-2 brigades a month. I've tried to be a leader to challenge Bush. But O refers continually to Afghanistan. He chairs the sub-committee on Europe, NATO, hasn't held one substantive hearing. We need to stabilize Afghanistan.

O: I became chairman at the beginning of the campaign, so we haven't had meetings. We need more troops in Afghanistan. We made a blunder there. Even this administration says we're hampered because of Iraw. Reinvade Iraq: I reserve the right to look out for our interests, so if Al Qaeda did that, we'd have to act. Also in other places, not just Iraq. Cooperate with our allies, move out terrorists, but if they plan attacks on U.S. ,it' s my job to act.

Democratic Debate #10721372: Ohio -- Hillary's mood swings, health care

2008-03-16T10:47:00Z

MSNBC's promo says "this debate is all about message". And they said it in a deep, important male announcer voice. I better take extra good patented, award-winning, internationally acclaimed quick notes then!

That reminds me. I need to check my messages. But that's not important now. What is important is that Brian Williams sound more important than the announcer... and he knows it.

He says there are no rules! So we should expect pie fights? Fisticuffs? How brazen and wacky of MSNBC. Tim Russert looks tired.

Brian's going right for Hillary's mood swings:

Hillary: This is a contested campaign. I respect Obama, but we have differences. And those differences in tactics and choices by the O people -- fliers, mailers -- have been disturbing to me. I have to stand up for myself, inform the voters. It's "unfortunate" that O says I'd force health care on people. Health care is a passion of mine. [compares plans] We should use accurate info, not discredited, misleading info.

Brian: Photo of Obama on Drudge, in native garb. [They show the photo.]

Hillary: So far as I know it didn't come from up. I know nothing about it. I don't condone it. No evidence where it came from but if it did, I'd ask them to leave.

Obama: I take Hillary at her word. Set it aside. As for the inaccuracies: My health care plan is better, although similar to Hillary's. I've repeatedly seen negative mailers from her about my plan. Talks about the "mandate" of her plan. Our mailing accurately indicates the differences between our plans...she'd force people in some fashion to buy healthcare. 20% are left out, so she doesn't cover everyone, not accurate. It's legit for us to point out the diffences. Context is important: Her campaign has constantly sent out negative attacks on us, radio spots, etc. We haven't whined about it, that's the nature of campaigning.

Hill: This goes to the heart of whether the country will finally provide health care to everyone. Obama has mandate in his plan on parents. The difference is that I know that if everyone's not in the system, the insurance companies will cherry pick, leaving some out. The kind of attack on my plan is misleading, goes to heart of whether we can achieve universal healthcare, a core dem value. Regrettable: In his mailing, it's as though the health insurance companies and Repubs wrote it. Compared her plan to John Edwards'.

Thank You, Senator

2008-02-23T02:11:53Z

Last night in the Democratic Presidential debate at the University of Texas in Austin between Senators Clinton and Obama, immigration took a front seat. Both candidates spoke about the need for comprehensive immigration reform, and Clinton stated she would introduce such legislation in her first hundred days of taking office. Obama eloquently talked about taking the hate out of the immigration debate, and most importantly the immediate passage of the DREAM Act. Obama's exact words can be read below:

"One last point I want to make on the immigration issue because we may be moving to different topics: Something that we can do immediately that I think is very important is to pass the Dream Act, which allows children who through no fault of their own are here but have essentially grown up as Americans, allow them the opportunity for higher education.

I do not want two classes of citizens in this country. (APPLAUSE) I want everybody to prosper. That's going to be a top priority."

Thank you, Obama for speaking so frankly about the DREAM Act, about illegal immigration, and comprehensive immigration reform. I know it gave a lot of DREAMERS hope. It is refreshing to see someone willing to stick up for all undocumented individuals, and to tell the American public the truth, whether they want to hear it or not. I hope your mention of the DREAM Act on the nationally televised debate will bring it to light to more citizens.

The entire transcript of the debate can be found here.

Wolf Blitzer is "...always sucking up to the president..."

2008-02-03T11:06:20Z

The whole piece is so worth a read, but here are a few excerpts from B&C's Ben Grossman's coverage of the CNN Democratic debate:

Standing on stage after the debate, I had to ask CNN honcho Jon Klein where the money came from that CNN paid former Sen. John Edwards (D-N.C.) to drop out of the race before the debate, leaving CNN with the first head-to-head between Sens. Hillary Clinton (D-N.Y.) and Barack Obama (D-Ill.) right before Super Tuesday. “We have a very special slush fund for these kinds of things,” he said. “We use it for bribes, mainly, but mostly of foreign governments for different things.”
[...] Then one CNN volunteer grabbed a Barack Obama sign and wrote, “Quiet Please” on the back. I quietly suggested that a CNN staffer probably didn’t want to be carrying around an Obama sign in public right before the debate, and that experiment ended pretty quickly.
[...] When a CNN staffer told the crowd that they’d have to be quiet or they wouldn’t be able to hear Wolf, one attendee shot back, “That’s OK by me, he’s always sucking up to the president, anyway.”
[...] I was sitting on a crate by the security check-in and a big guy with a very big gun came over quickly and told me to get off it. I didn’t ask what was in there, I just moved. Fast.

Go here to read more about TBPNTOTV!!!'s big night.

H/t: MediaBistro

L.A. Democratic Debate

2008-06-11T21:31:18Z

L.A. Democratic Debate

Watch the video

"They both looked like winners to me" --Keith Olbermann on Obama and Clinton

2008-02-01T07:23:20Z

That sums it up.

MSNBC debate coverage aka The Love-In in L.A.

2008-01-31T23:27:41Z

The Love-In in L.A.:

Keith and I are thinking alike tonight: Cutaway shots to audience, love fest moments... It's nice to be at one with him.

We got substance tonight. How novel. Good for us Dems.

Keith is quoting my posts. Okay, he's quoting from the debates, but isn't that what I posted? I knew it.

Richard Wolffe and Eugene Robinson:

Wolffe: The debate was equally good in person. Good substance. Good-natured. Obama did well on Iraq.

Did Hillary miss her chance to defend herself on Iraq?

W: Yes. But Obama didn't take it a step further, didn't mention she didn't read the NIE on Iraq. He got the better of the debate for a Hollywood audience.

Keith: Obama showed humor, a difference from other debates. Has he done that enough?

W: No, but it's not over. Both did well, wonky. Well-informed, engaging, tapping into their "inner policy wonk". O has developed well over these debates.

Eugene: Much better by Obama. One electric moment: At the beginning, the visual, a woman, a man of color. One will win..that remark. That's an important moment. Then we got into policy. When they showed Jason Alexander, I thought, where was George Constanza when you need him? Didn't contrast each other enough.

Keith: 5 words: That looked like a ticket.

E: Genuine respect. Agreed on a lot. A "careful" debate, they chose not to fight much.

Keith: They both pushed "democratic unity."

Democratic debate liveblogging: MSNBC

2008-01-31T23:27:30Z

Geez, they're calling it a "battle" between Obama and Hillary. A "battle". Did anyone out there sense a battle? Anyone?

Democratic debate liveblogging:

2008-01-31T20:52:18Z

Sex and violence in Hollywood:

O: I have kids. I'm a parent. I'm concerned. Primary responsibility is for parents...applause...no censorship. Give parents the tools they need. Internet can be a problem, so we need technology and tools. [Hillary is nodding. Taking notes. ] Those in the industry show thought too...Stevie Wonder is applauding. Rob Reiner was half approving. Ads in Family Hour should be G rated, during American Idol, for ex.

Bill Clinton question:

H: (gesture to O) He has a spouse too!

Greg Craig is now advising O, used to be Bill's lawyer. How can you control Bill in WH?

H: Laughs. We both have passionate spouses. I'M running, it's MY campaign...cut to Chelsea smiling...applause... I'm concerned with issues, that's what it's about. Family is here tonight ...cut to Chelsea again.. MY name is on the ballot.. after consulting with lots of people, I have to make the call...I'm prepared. We're proud of families, but it's a lonely job in the WH. President has to make the decision. ..applause...

Last question; YAY! A dream ticket, both of you. Both smile, H laughs, audience goes nuts. Grinning Obama. H is writing. Despite angry words, would you consider it?

O: There's a big difference between O/H, or H/O ticket.

H laughs.

O: I respect Hillary, great..blahblah.. question is premature and presumptuous to speculate. Cabinet: Excellent, competent, independent people of integrity...no more yes-men and women. I can't always be right. But give people sense that the gov'ts on their side, listening, carrying their voices into the WH. unlike the last 7 years. Whether cabinet or civil servant, they work for American people to achieve their dreams. That's why I'm running.

Yes? No?

O: I'm sure H would be on anyone's short list.

H: I have to agree with everything O said..Big applause.

Wolf: A Yes?

H: We're both overwhelmed with the enthusiasm people feel about us. We're both dedicated to nomination. We will have a unified party...HUGE APPLAUSE..prepared to win... Plugs her townhall meeting. Omg...big plug! Bigggg plug.

Wolf: We do the plugs here.

WHEW! over and out.

Some smiles and whispers between O and H. Nice ending.

Democratic debate liveblogging: Iraq

2008-01-31T23:14:40Z

No specific end to Iraq war..open ended?

H: I've been clear: I will begin to w/draw troops in 60 days, nearly all out within a year. But we must plan and execute it right. I began to press Pentagon, and they resisted. So I'll ask military on the first day to come up with a plan. But, it's not just bringing them out, which is dangerous, but we have to think about the civilians there. We have to deal with the Iraqis who sided with us. Can't walk out on them w/out taking care of them. Plus, tell Iraqi government they're out of time...applause... Barack and I tried in debates to be as responsible as we can be.

I like the unity in this debate...I'm getting all mushy...okay, back to debate:

We'll inherit Bush's mess. I'll do what I can.

No commitment?

H: I hope it'll be within a year.

O: We have to be as careful getting out as we were careless in getting in. No permanent occupation/bases vs. John McCain's 100 years remark. Lack of understanding that there are more threats: Afghanistan, Pakistan, Latin America, China is strengthening...we're spending $ on Iraq. Set a date. Important to send signal and have clarity to let them know how serious we are. We agree on a lot, H and me, but we shouldn't get "mission creep", blunt Iranian influence. We shouldn't have invaded in the first place...applause... I will be the Dem who can go up against a McCain or any R, I offer clear contrast, never was for war in first place...BIG APPLAUSE.

Wolf: Senator Clinton, that's a clear swipe at you.

H: Realllly? We're having a wonderful time.

O: Absolutely. [Awwww!!! See?]

H: No good options here. Treacherous terrain. We have to send several messages: Withdraw (good message to Iraqis to get serious)... R's are more of the same.. Send message to the region...Iran, Syria, etc. will be in bad position if we withdraw, sectarian divisiveness...Need to have diplomacy immediately... Plus: Barack agreed to join me in legislation to stop Bush from the agreement with Iraq. He won't take it to Congress, and if McCain is the nominee... We say ABSOLUTELY NO... no binding that will undermine our interest.

Judgment on Iraq has been raised. Before war, why didn't you vote for Levin amendment on inspections?

H: I believed we needed inspectors which is why I voted for the war resolution... I respect Levin... but the way the amendment was drafted suggested the US would subordinate our judgment to the UN Security council, so I voted No. I voted with Byrd to limit authority to 1 year, not approved. If I'd known then what I know now, I wouldn't have given him the authority. He abused it. Now, go forward..debate R's and Bush's policies. I welcome that debate. The Dems get the reality of this. We need to push that. The Rs will box us together, that if we oppose Bush's policy, we can't fully represent the U.S. and be commander in chief... applause..

Petraeus: There has been progress. Quick w/drawal will undermine it.

O: I welcome the progress! I want to get our troops home safely, honorably. But to say we've succeeded means we are setting the bar so low, it's buried in the sand at this point. ...applause... And we've spent billions, lost lives, maimed, injured...so this has undermined our security...Afghanistan worse off. I'm happy to argue that. It's easier to argue this if you were opposed to war to begin with. It's not just he execution, but it's been a flawed mission. We need better judgment. Imminent threat, protect our interests, planned entrance/exit, rotations, vet care, that's what we need to argue, especially if you never supported the war. Hillary is grinning...BIG APPLAUSE.

Wolf: Can't you call it a mistake, your vote?

H: Look at what went on at the time...I was diligent. Saddam was looking to get WMD. Inspectors in Iraq a good idea. Coercive diplomacy to avoid dire consequences. Nobody appreciates how obsessed Bush was with Iraq mission. I wanted inspectors. Use diplomacy, but it was talking to a brick wall. If I had been president, we wouldn't have been diverted from Afghanistan. We now have problems. But, if we go in against the Rs saying we're better than they are at national security, terrorism, then we can join the issues of the future. That's what Americans are focused on.

[That answer didn't make me feel better]

Wolf: You were naive in trusting Bush? BOOS.

H: Good try, Wolf. Good try. I respect O's 2002 speech, but in Senate, we had the same policy. [O looks bored and annoyed] Going to the resolution, they had a credible case, they'd use the resolution to get inspectors in. Saddam had thrown out inspectors in '98, he was a megalomaniac, competed for attention with OBL.

O: The legislation, authorization, "to use U.S. military force in Iraq", was a vote to go to war. That was clear. H claims she has experience on Day One, but you have to be RIGHT on Day one...big applause... How we make decisions in the future... In a dangerous world... We can't just send our troops in w/o good intelligence, a clear rationale...that's the kind of leadership we need.

Democratic debate liveblogging: Experience

2008-01-31T20:41:17Z

Is H better prepared?

O: A lot of Americans disagree. ..applause...move forward with new leadership. I've spent my life trying to change things in America...gives resume... In each instance, it's important to bring people together who see nothing in common, overcome special interests, ethics reform, and talking straight on how to solve these problems, and negotiate. I respect H's terrific record, but the skills I have are the ones needed right now...huge applause.

H: First lady experience question: Go back 35 years, Wolf. Out of law school, I worked with kids... spent my early adulthood bringing people together...gives resume... In White House, I had lots of responsilbility...health care, etc., and I kept plugging away for kids' health care, stayed on drug companies...[showing women in audience].. foster care.. around world, went to 82 countries, negotiated, women's rights in Beijing...Big applause... In Senate, work across party lines.. public service is a trust... Nat'l Guard healthcare because of me and Lindsey Graham.

Q: Mitt Romney, if he's the nominee... The country is a very large business, per Romney, so why would you be a good CEO?

H: US is more than a business, it's a trust...not out to make a profit...for the Amer. people... We have a CEO MBA president, and look who we got, I am not too happy with the results...big applause.

O: Mitt hasn't gotten a very good return on his investment in this campaign..compare mine to his, favorably.

New theme: Kennedy endorsement

H: I respect the Kennedys... I have 3 endorsing me... But what's exciting is the way we're looking at the Dem field is we'll get big change. The first woman Pres is a big change...applause...Despite the endorsements, this is about the 2 of us... Who can tackle problems on Day One, withstand R attacks... but it's about the American people, your jobs, your lives, your healthcare, college, etc. and be proud of our country again, moral authority... Super Tuesday, every voter should look at what THEY want... what you need... evaluate the 2 of us... This is a humbling experience. [O nods] Big applause...

Wolf: 8 years of Clinton were good. Fond memories.

O: No doubt there were good things that happened. We're all Dems...esp. after the last 8 years, those years look even BETTER. I agree with H, we need to be judged on own merits, endorsements or not... Something happened: We're bringing in a new generation of voters...applause... Nuts and bolts of managing bureaucracy is important, but also get people to reach higher... Don't accept leaving people behind... kids learning in trailers, don't accept a bad foreign policy, so: Who can work the levers of power more effectively, and who can inspire people to get involved again... Bush's special interests, bad... Good news for Dems: The turnout has doubled. Not all due to me, H too. But in Iowa, 60% new voters were for me.

Generational issue: Exit polls show that. To H: You say you'll bring change. Bush/Clinton dynasty question. How can you change if only 2 families have been in WH?

H: I regret that a Bush is in WH. But, we're all judged on our own merits. I don't want to be advantaged OR disadvantaged because of husband. He did good things, really good things...she lists them... It took a Clinton to clean up after the first Bush, it might take a second to clean up after this one... BIG APPPLAUSE. She's beaming.

That will get press, that last line.

Democratic debate liveblogging: Immigration

2008-01-31T20:14:22Z

Effect on African Americans:

O: Economic insecurity before immigration problems. African American youth always had that, unemployment. It's scapegoating to blame immigrants...HUGE applause...We have a real difference with Rs here. Nation of laws AND immigrants possible. .. Need to crack down on borders and employers, and have a pathway to citizenship after paying a fine and learning English to those already here...or they'll undermine wages. But, the problem whites, blacks, Latinos are experiencing is due to tax cuts, lack of investment in infrastructure, education, etc... so lack of jobs is a result. Immigration shouldn't be a tactic to divide...BIG applause.

Drivers' licenses:

H: First, employers exploiting undoc. workers results in job losses. Tells personal story of someone she met. We have to bring country together for comprehensive reform solution...applause... That's in the best interest of those who are losing jobs...tighten borders, crack down on employers... help local communities cope with costs... create jobs in Mexico for their own people... and cope with millions who are here... Deporting, rounding them up isn't practical... come out of the shadows, register, no criminals stay, will be deported... but most: Pay fine, pay back taxes over time, try to learn English, and then wait in line. Goes back to her personal story... Meet conditions, THEN driver's licenses. Solve the problem, not exacerbate it...applause.

O: When immigration came up, i worked with Durbin, McCain (although he may not admit it now), Kennedy, to move on this. It's a tough issue. It doesn't poll well, but it's the right thing to do...applause... Recognize that the problems that workers experience are not primarily caused by immigration. H's policy not humane, Wolf asks? Stand up to these issues when it's tough...did that as a legislator. Was she lacking? Wolf, you keep on pushing on this. There are some who oppose, some who flip, some who run away. This wasnt' directed at H. If we have comprehensive reform...they come here to work, not drive...applause...then we won't have the problem of undocumented workers. Right approach for all races.

Wolf: Were you MIA when the 3 of them worked on this?

H: I cosponsored before Barack came to the Senate..big applause... I stood up against mean spirited laws...[and mentioned Jesus Christ when she said this].. I got United Farm Workers endorsement... applause... Let's fix this in a practical, realistic approach, bring people together. People are nervous about immigration, the economy isn't working...they want to know why this is happening...[went back to personal story, same one]...

Wolf: Why not let them get licenses then?

H: Not appropriate if they're here undocumented, puts them at risk because it proves they're not here legally... Create a political coalition to change immigration.

O: H has given different answers, but now she has a clear answer, but was before it before she was against it, which shows it's a difficult issue. Hill is pissed off. I don't want a bunch of hit and run drivers because they're worried about being deported... Who will tackle this problem and solve it?

H: Must correct record...we agree on reform...but you couldn't answer the same question. It IS a difficult issue...applause... we share a lot of the same values. .Respect the dignity of every human being... have a UNITED DEM PARTY...applause.

Democratic debate liveblogging: Taxes

2008-01-31T21:28:14Z

O: R's are in no position to argue fiscal responsibility with all the national debt...Huge applause... McCain says it's irresponsible that we've never cut taxes during a war, but his straight talk express has "lost some wheels" along the way. Invest in prevention, emphasize savings...chronically ill will get better treatment. We'll save money under my plan. Roll back Bush tax cuts on wealthy, so my plan is paid for. The question is who the tax cuts/hikes are FOR. Not whether they exist. Corporate tax loopholes/havens should change, and cut taxes for those who need them...sr. citizens, etc. Restore a sense of balance.

Jason Alexander close-up here.

Poor kids, teachers need a chance. ..applause...

H:I'd pay for it is to take the Bush tax cuts that are set to expire on the wealthy would raise $55 billion to be put into the subsidies for health care tax credit. The other $55 billion would come from modernization and efficiencies. I'd change Bush policies... She mentioned...BILL FRIST...!!! We'd save $$ on updating record-keeping. Modernize system, be more effective, sensible.

Tax cuts lapsing means tax increases:

O: On wealthy Americans...addresses those in audience as being those people...gets laugh. Agrees on modernization. A healthier population will help control spending.

H: We'll go BACK to old tax rates pre-Bush...and I remember we did really well then. ...applause.

Democratic debate liveblogging: Health care

2008-01-31T19:31:28Z

O: Every expert says anyone who wants it will be able to get it under my plan. The 15 million who don't want it is in dispute..they can't AFFORD it. Next, all kids covered, mandated. Those who say they don't need it? My plan will let people up to 25 will be covered under parents plan, so I don't believe 15 million will be out there. If you mandate it, there will be some who won't have it, can't afford it. So, do you find them? Garnish their wages? H hasn't answered that yet.

H: This is a passionate cause of my public service. Reviews her history... My plan: If you have insurance and are happy, you're not one who needs to change. But if you're uninsured, we open Congressional health plan to you...applause.. But it WILL be affordable for everyone. How? Provides subsidies, caps premiums. So, if O says it's not affordable, it has been designed to be affordable with tax credits. Universal health care is imperative: Single payer..applause..but it's difficult to achiever, or, mandate employers, or do my plan of shared responsibility. O isn't against mandatory provisions, thinks it's politically unacceptable. We must start by saying we need universal health care or you'll be nibbled to death. Mentions Edwards: Bite the bullet to get it.

O: (on mandates, we end up paying for their health care) Make them pay back premiums for not getting it in the first place. H's plan doesn't provide for subsidies that are sufficient. Not just cap premiums, I want to LOWER them. People don't have health insurance, they have HOUSE insurance...applause... But how do we do this? Quotes Ted Kennedy says he's confident we'll have universal health care with me as president. We need bipartisan agreement...Dems and Rs...to get it done. Not negotiate behind closed doors, bring parties together...on CSPAN, in the public eye... to overcome the special interests... That's not a swipe at H (Wolf asked, trying to provoke), no. [Hillary's smiling, ready to react.] Keep it out in the open, involve the American people.... applause.

H: When I did my health plan in secret, it was just a beginning. Now we're continuing the process. We must regulate the health industry differently...must cover EVERYone, preexisting conditions included... Not just he wealthy.. next, drug co's deserve to be part of the solution, but we pay too much for their research, etc. So, we have to get the costs down, and finally: As Dems, we carry banner of universal health care. The industry is clever and well-funded. I know this. [experience card] I learned a lot about what people want, will accept, and how we get the political process to work. We have to persuade Congress to go on CSPAN, okay, but that's a "heavier lift". We'll have a coalition that will withstand the health insurance companies.

New spending on this, raising taxes to pay for this. See next post.

Democratic debate liveblogging: The beginning...

2008-01-31T19:39:26Z

Wolf is introing and he's already dull. Okay, moving on.

A woman and an African American are running...did you know that? No? Pay attention then.

It's like a boxing match: In this corner!..Barack...In this corner....Hillary! Big loud crowd. I should be there. I live so close...wahh!

I wonder what Barack just whispered to Hillary. Any guesses?

What a reception! Lots of excitement...lots. There's Rob Reiner, Meathead. I just dated myself. Wait. I've never even asked myself out. But seriously... Just killing time.

A "sitting down" debate...in the "traditional sense" says Wolf. Doyle McManus from the L.A.Times and a female Politico whose name just went by me, will ask questions.

THERE ARE NO RULES. Right. We'll see. Oh, first rule: 90 second opener. So much for THERE ARE NO RULES.

O: Acknowledges Edwards first thing. ..poverty, working families... looking for support from Edwards. He says we're making history because either he or Hill will win. Nice. Says he was and will continue to be friends with Hill. Sweet opening. Smart opening. Listing all the woes of the world... How do we take the country in a new direction, away from the old divisions? Not about race, gender, religion, age, but whether we look backwards or forwards, back or to the future... We're both Dems... We both want change..but we need change against special interests, level with the people.

Hillary: I hope you're looking at our next president, Barack or me. Creating a mental picture of the stack of problems they'd inherit. Her demeanor is calm and understanding. Imperative to have a president on Day One who can tackle the challenges. Grateful to the Edwards family... reminded us that there are still poor Americans... We need to state our priorities...have a problem solver. We can do anything if we put our minds to it.

I give the opening to Barack, but that's just me.

Policy distinctions:

H: The differences pale in comparison to those with R's. But: Health care: We must have universal healthcare... applause... My plan is like Edwards'... Next: Mortgage crisis: I want a moratorium on foreclosures for 90 days, and freeze interest rates for 5 years. Foreign affairs: Must be realistic and optimistic. We do have serious threats, we need diplomacy, but disagrees with O's meetings with dictators the first year. Bottom line: R's are more of the same. We are not more of the same, you can see just by looking at us.

O: Some of the ones H mentioned...Healthcare, 95% similar to each other... both want to emphasize prevention.. but, my view is that people don't have healthcare is that they can't afford it... I emphasize reducing costs... provide subsidies, and they will buy it. H believes we have to force them to buy it... If you mandate unaffordable insurance, the gov't will have to charge or take it out of paychecks. ..applause....Mortgage crisis: Huge problem we agree. 10 billion $ prevention fund...interest freeze wouldn't work because interest rates will go up... applause... we're in the mortgage mess is because of Bush admin...applause... another difference: reduce special interest and lobbyists...applause... Increase ethics proposals that I passed, toughest since Watergate...Edwards agrees. And finally, Iraq: I opposed it from start...applause... and looking forwards, judgment matters, to insure we use military wisely, and elevate diplomacy... Meeting with Iran: If we do that, offer carrots and sticks will change their behavior.