Key Barack Obama advisor calls Hillary Clinton a 'monster'

Samantha Power, a Barack Obama foreign policy advisor and Harvard professor who helped focus the world's attention on genocide, apparently has a little trouble with personal diplomacy. In an interview with the Scotsman published today, Power described Hillary Clinton as a "monster" and used an expletive to describe the Obama campaign's losing effort in Ohio -- comments for which she is already apologizing.

The money quote: "You just look at her and think, 'Ergh.' But if you are poor and she is telling you some story about how Obama is going to take your job away, maybe it will be more effective. The amount of deceit she has put forward is really unattractive."

And: "In Ohio, they are obsessed and Hillary is going to town on it, because she knows Ohio's the only place they can win. She is a monster, too -– that is off the record -– she is stooping to anything."

Imagine the meeting this morning among the Obama communications advisors. Power, a Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist, already has drawn lightning over her views on the Mideast, though she has picked up some defenders too.

And there will probably be some chatter this morning about Power's saying that the "monster" comment was off the record. But Power should know better. Off-the-record status is something agreed to between interviewer and interviewee, not something decreed by the person being interviewed because he or she uttered something problematic.

And in this case, Power's "frankness" might not rise to the level of Obama's "problem from hell," but it's not exactly the kind of distraction the campaign needs at this point.

-- Scott Martelle

Comments

[Shannon Lynn]

I just learned a new word for praising Obama, "Boo Yao Lian". It's a cool word, and should be used as "Barak Obama is so Boo Yao Lian." Let's say it together,
"Barak Obama is so Boo Yao Lian." -Cheers

[Jenna]

Hmm...change we can believe in right? I may like Obama, but it sure seems like he can't even inspire his own followers to decry politics as usual. Also, just because Hillary is pointing out things the Republicans surely will, doesn't mean she is a monster. She is doing him a favor. If he can't beat Hillary, he doesn't deserve to be the nominee and will get crushed by McCain. Doesn't it scare any Democrats that he gets a little bit of bad press and he loses 3 out of 4 elections? He can’t count on getting great press forever. What is going to happen when the Republicans hammer him in ways that will make Hillary’s tactics look like powder puff? How he moves forward will hopefully answer that question.

[Ron]

What is worse for a Democrat ?
Being called a Monster or Ken Starr...... I think the latter.

Hillary may or may not be a monster,but what we do know is that she is a fighter

She fought the Republicans and the Democrats to pass a failed health bill... failed and got knocked out.

She threw the fight against George Bush and sent our men and women over to Iraq
( now they are doing the fighting for her ) 4000 dead and counting....but that was then, this is NOW

She joined her husband in pardoning quite a few criminals..... That would technically be considered a tag team fight.

She may not be a monster, but as a fighter, I wouldn't want her on my side.

[Naomi]

Hillary Clinton is a REAL fighter. She has proven herself in crises situation such as 9/11 where she is the Senator from New York, Bosnia, Kosovo negotiations, the Ireland peace proposals, and in China where she proclaimed loudly that Womens right were human rights. All the women in the world applauded. She is the toughest I have ever seen.

Obummer is just like a con salesman and a weak candidate with Rezko, NAFTA-gate, his racist Pastor Wright, and his unpatriotic wife. I cannot conceive how any patriotic American would vote for him.

Go Hillary!!!!!!!

[April]

Are you serious? That is terrible. This is something I would expect from the Republicans against Senator Clinton but from a democrat?
Awful. Honestly I am so disgusted right now. Is this how his inner circle talks about her behind closed doors?
Clearly Obama knows this woman - she is one of his top advisors and she ovbiously feels comfortable talking like this (she said it to the press) - on the outside the Obama campaign is all positive and hopeful but behind the scenes they are attacking other democrats as "monsters."
This is dirty politics at its best. I'm a tried and true democrat but I will not support Obama after this - I'd rather vote for McCain.

[Bucky]

I used to believe in and support Obama but as this race progresses, I am seeing more and more that Obama is really like all the other mainstream politicians he denounces, and this recent example is no exception. I do not remember a single incident where even the dirty politics of Bush, Reagan, Gingrich, you-name-it, ever approached calling a rival candidate a "monster". This is beyond low and very disgraceful, especially in light of Obama's pledge of clean politics and "politics of hope". This seems like the mud-slinging, dirty politics of old.

[MissClarity]

Why hasn't the times published the October 08 court date for the Paul vs Clinton situation. And isn't she the Marxist Monsta situation ethics killed all those innocent people in Wado leadership 'queen' of mean. Don't let that smile that she admits training her daqughter to do, just keep smiling honey thats what they'll remember. Come on LA when did you stop thinking. Stop being a Baba and start being a John Wayne.

[Laurel]

Hillary plays dirty--she has to expect to get hit with a pie now and then.

[PulSamsara]

Does 'SEA HAG' count as a monster? Because I see her as sort of a 'SEA HAG' but I really don't put that into the 'Monster' category.
Hmmm... I could be wrong.

[Hillary All the Way!!!!]

So when is this Obama aide going to be fired?" OH YEAH! that's right, Obama doesn't fire anyone who fouls on his team, just like Bush!! Hillary has held every last one of her aides accountable for this kind of thing, Obama has shown every time on the other hand what he would do as President, protect his cronies and never fire them and hold them accounatble!! just like Bush does!! Voting for Barrack Obama is a HUGE mistake! Hillary Clinton has the integrity to lead honestly and fairly as this one of many examples like it once again proves.

[Hillary All the Way!!!!]

So when is this Obama aide going to be fired?" OH YEAH! that's right, Obama doesn't fire anyone who fouls on his team, just like Bush!! Hillary has held every last one of her aides accountable for this kind of thing, Obama has shown every time on the other hand what he would do as President, protect his cronies and never fire them and hold them accounatble!! just like Bush does!! Voting for Barrack Obama is a HUGE mistake! Hillary Clinton has the integrity to lead honestly and fairly as this one of many examples like it once again proves.

[char]

Completely accurate. Hillary Clinton is a monster, and a bitter hag.

[ellen]

And what about Clinton's remark that MCain would be more qualified than Obama? She is evil and cares nothing for the party. She only cares about her own power.

Obama, on the other hand, has been making commercials for young Democrats running for office. HRC is too self-absorbed to do this and I agree with Power's statement. She is a monster. What else but a monster would harass a 12 year old rape victim on the stand?

[Vivian]

Whatever.... Can we get back to the real issues of jobs, justice, and peace in the middle east?

[Chithra KarunaKaran]

U.S. Civil Society and Presidential Election 2008

Hillary a "monster." ?

Is Samantha Power Lawrence Summers' twin from hell? She should resign just as Summers was finally forced to.

I voted for Obama. I think he delivers an authentic message. So does Hillary. Voters have the legal right to choose through the electoral process.
But Samantha Power discredits Obama's campaign and devalues the democratic process which the world's nation-states are desperately trying to develop,
by abusing her First Amendment rights of free speech with her incendiary ad hominem attack against Hillary Clinton.

Power does not work for the Jerry Springer show does she? She is employed by Harvard and she owes responsibility and can be held accountable for her public statements.

She is a self-appointed, Harvard-anointed arbiter of the "Practice of Global Leadership and Public Policy" at the Kennedy School of Government. She failed to be responsible to this prestigious and well-regarded institution and she is NOT a global leader by any stretch o0f the imagination.

As a post-colonial sociologist and a civil society activist I would characterize Power's gratuitous verbal violence against Hillary Clinton, as part of of the practice of Systemic Whiteness.
White folks in particular exercise unearned skin privilege to damage democratic process for the Greater Collective Good (GCG) because
they have a long history of a profound misplaced sense of entitlement under a pervasive structure, system and ideology of Whiteness.
Because Whiteness is a 3-part structure of Power, any one of us can be impacted and constrained, albeit unequally, by its overarching
as well as embedded and entrenched characteristic of power.

People cannot just abandon theory when it suits them. Power fumbled badly. She exposed her lack of ethical authority in the matter of political debate as part of an election.
Power should be held accountable and she should pay the price. Resign.

But I guess being white, like her colleague on the right, Coulter, with entrenched white skin privilege, she will not.
Jesse Jackson was made to pay the price when he made his comment about
Hymietown. But Samantha Power will probably go "scot" free. (see her interview with The Scotsman)

http://www.ethicaldemocracy.blogspot.com
Dr. Chithra KarunaKaran
City University of New York

[Joseph Hayden]

Well, of course, if the shoe fits, then Hillary needs to take it on the chin. Her behavior is simply reprehensible, her campaign and its staff is an embarrassing mess and she herself - the presumptive nominee as of January 1, 2008 - can't close the deal.

Whether Obama becomes the nominee or not, she will never be able to scour the mud from under her fingernails that has turned off myself and others like me: The White Male Swing Voter.

She can't even organize or effectively manage a piddly $150 million campaign - what makes anyone think she can handle the Presidency?

Excuse me now while I go play golf and ponder my next donation.

[bj]

This is proof that Obama says one thing in his rhetorics, yet means something else. His thoughts obviously come from his handlers... such as in the NAFTA double-speak.

[linda b]

well, the truth hurts hill, you have lost all creds. and what about those delegates?

[robert]

i really do not trust hillary. whether she is a monster i dont know but she will not have my vote

[JKhan]

This shows Samantha Power class in other words Obama's dirty campaign.

If they think that we are all fools out here just to take them "verbally" they are going to prove themselves wrong again! I am sure that this news is a "dirty Creation" and well planned act from Obama campaign to just to be in news and pretend that Obama "holier than thau" thing !
Well we all know what they are trying to do here..makeup some ground that they lost among americans.

Rediculous! as it sounds to me and shame on press who go follow these kind of "hoax".

Again Americans now know their true nature and will prove them wrong and understand the motives behind this verbal action and reaction that followed with apologies... its an utterly laughable act!

[Dave Rosenberg]

I appreciate the Obama campaign desiring to stay above the fray so to speak....however if a politician and or their platform is monstrous and based on deceit and inuendo (sp) then what is so wrong with stating the truth! My biggest concern is the ongoing announcements by both campaigns of the huge amounts of money they keep claiming....regardless of its source it represents initself a huge amount ($) of hypocracy. The candidates pandering to the poor and unfortunate...Hillary loaning her campaign 5 mil and then saying its time to get rid of a the President (Bush) who represents the wealthy and connected....she being wealthy and connected!.( see tax return not being disclosed)..both Dem candidates amasing enough money for endless TV and newspaper adds..in poverty striken States where perhaps they should just give the money to the needy in exchange for votes....The current admin is giving everybody a rebate check to spend at Walmart why not just give lets say 20 million divided by each democratic voter in each State that holds a primary. Instead of the closed door promising of more kick backs and pork to their respective representatives and Govenors & Super delegates for their support! Whatever!

[bill parkhurst]

Hillary is quite obviously obsessed with becoming president and quite willing to do things she will later regret just like her vote to go to war which she now has to explain.

Obama is clearly showing he is interested in changing the status quo. Hillary is part of the status quo.

[hhkeller]

Obama sees the math. He lost.

He doesnt have the popular support and cant get enough electoral votes. With no experience in the Senate to speak of he's looking like the weakest of the two candidates.

All his nasty supporters and groupies cant change this fact and the louder they yell TAXES or Bitcch or Whatever they look like Repugs even more.

[James Bonn]

Yeah but Hillary IS a monster.

[Ross Anderson]

I am still concerned with Ms. Clinton's vote on the Iraq war. I am surprised the Times hasn't investigated why she failed to read critical reports on the status of WMD. I am concerned that the motivation behind her vote was a purely political calculation. I don't think she cared one iota about the right or wrong of her decision. I think her vote to give Bush war making powers was a cop out and unconstitutional. For her, it was a no lose vote. If things worked out, she takes credit. If things don't work out, she blames Bush. (Her husband made a simmilar decision when he chose to execute an acutely mentally disabled man in Arkansas when he was Governor. I believe he cared nothing for right or wrong) She may not be a monster, but I think she is indeed a cynic. The depth of her cynicism is such that I believe she is amoral, which is to me a greater problem than being immoral. At least when one is imoral, they acknowledge that the moral exists. I do not want another cynic in the White House.

[Jason]

If the shoe fits, wear it.

[disgusted]

Positively brilliant, Power. You've managed to damage Obama in the moment where he needed more than ever to appear gracious and to rise above this kind of mudslinging.

[Apolitical Joe]

Mommy! Mommy! Samantha said a bad! Samantha said a bad! Are you going to spank her mommy?

What a dumb story, and who cares? Only newspapers thinking only about sales figures.

To all: Lowest common denominator crud journalism is on the march, ready to inform you!

[Kirk Davids]

So Samantha Power committed the cardinal sin of speaking the truth to the press (whose mandate, I believe, is to "speak truth to power").

Hillary Clinton, in her increasing desperation to "win" the Democratic nomination, has resorted to calling for the rules to which she agreed to be changed half-way thru the process by "counting" delegates from Florida and (unbelievably) from Michgian, where Obama and Edwards were not even on the ballot. She's compared Senator Obama to Kenn Starr, she's implied that she doesn't really know if he's a Muslim or not, that his wins in some states were due to "racial pride", her campaign has threatened to sue the Texas Democratic Party, and she's compained endlessly about the caucus system is unfair.

In short - she's become a monster in just three short months. Kudos to Ms. Power - a woman used to dealing with the results of egomania from the former Yugoslavia to Darfur - for calling it like she sees it. It's a shame she needs to apologize at all, to be honest. I am one voter who will stay home rather than vote for any Democratic nominee who wins neither the pledged delegate count nor the popular vote.

[Jackie]

Hillary is a monster only those asleep don't know that.

[Bob P]

I agree...she is a ruthless monster...good call a spade is a spade.

[Stacey Alpert]

This person is an academic, and the only life experience she has is picking up her dry-cleaning. She may have a mean jump shot, but basketball is won in the fourth quarter as everyone knows, and she didn't even make it to half-time. Back to your laptop at Starbucks, dear.

[Bianka]

And she is a Harvard professor... she should know better.

[Valerie Harris]

Powers just got fired!

[sunjay]

Since you're covering reports from the Foreign Press w/regard to the campagin, how about covering the report that it was *Hillary's campaign* not Barack's that reached out to Canadian officials re: a NAFTA wink-wink ..?

http://www.theglobeandmail.com/servlet/story/RTGAM.20080305.wharpleak0305/BNStory/National/home

"Quite a few people heard it," said one source in the room.

"He said someone from (Hillary) Clinton's campaign is telling the embassy to take it with a grain of salt. . . That someone called us and told us not to worry."

Clinton playbook == DENY, DENY, DENY

[Bob P]

I agree...she is a ruthless monster...good call a spade is a spade.

[Paula]

I am surprised that Obama's campaign didn't say that they were MISQUOTED! lol!

[FreedomRider]

Hillary is divisive. She is polarizing the democratic party in the same manner in which she has polarized the nation. She is a divider, not a uniter. Professor Power would have been better served to state that Hillary's behavior is monstrous when it comes to her placing her own quest for power above uniting the country.

[jimmy]

SHE has problems with personal diplomacy!?!?!?!

LOL! No, baby, she's just telling it like it is. You want to know the truth, you need to stop focusing on little bits like this and write an article about how horrible home prices are across the country and we need a drop in the housing market badly or how wages are falling while prices are skyrocketing or how working class people are working full time, earning under the federal poverty line, and NOT GETTING THEIR NEEDS MET.

This is the important stuff. This crap about name calling is not important and a waste of ALL of our time. Especially after all the bullshit attacks Hillary Clinton has brought against Obama. Shit like - if she wants to take credit for the work of her husband, she also needs to take responibility for NAFTA, but I guess that would take some critical thinking and writing instead of this, "poor little Hillary" mindset you people are displaying.

[FLRepublican]

Monster is a bit exaggerating. Ruthless hag would be closer.

[Ramon]

Well, so much for the Obama fairytale that they are all "good guys" that just want to talk about hope and none of the ugliness of real issues.

[Ron, Redlands.]

Many in this country are getting upset like Samantha Power with the gutter politics Clinton has sunk to. Obama's campaign has been uplifting to date, but in the end to set the country on a new path, he may have to wade in the cesspoll of Clintonland.

[Ramon]

Well, so much for the Obama fairytale that they are all "good guys" that just want to talk about hope and none of the ugliness of real issues.

[Kye]

Funny how people are made to eat their words after speaking the truth. Perhaps everyone wants to continue to live in La-La Land and don't want to acept the truth.

[Campaign Monster]

By the time Obama and Clinton are done with each other, the majority of the party will be too disillusioned and disheartened to go out and vote in November. Throw on top of that 80% of the democrats in Michigan and Florida who will be revolting in November.

[Art Hale]

I am involved in grassroots CaDem politics and am surprised at the number of people I run into who are deeply troubled by Hillary's actions and Obama's apparent need to respond in kind. They feel that the Dems may snatch defeat from the jaws of what should be an easy victory. I think Rosa Brooks' op-ed piece in today's Times is right on.

[Doug]

Truth is a defense

[Dj Delmonico]

Hillary IS A MONSTER
she is stooping to bush tactics to try and get elected.
Sue Lie Cheat and Steal.

If she gets the nom, I vote Nader, otherwise, its Obama.

Hillary, you neocon dawg in hiding.

[The Steadmanns]

She is a monster -- just ask Vince Foster.

The Steadmanns

[char]

Hillary Clinton is in a time warp, and living in 1992. People cared and were excited about politics again, especially young people...Bill not Hillary was responsible for this. This is why she is a bitter hag. On topic: Completely agree with her characterization as a MONSTER, yes she is a monster; willing to tear apart the party for her selfish ego. It is too bad that stupid people fall for her negative politics.

[Mary Cobb]

Obama's advisors help voters decide who to vote for and this woman clearly makes me understand that I will be voting for Hillary Clinton.

[Ron]

Samantha Power, you would think that you would be talking about issues instead of crazed personal attacks. And what is this about Ohio? I' m from Ohio and very proud of that, We have had more presidents than any other state. If it wasn't for Ohioans, you'd be walking on your trip, instead of flying. Ohio is one of the nicest states in the U.S. , and has some of the nicest people in the country. We are not led like sheep, as some other people are. we have our own minds, and make our own decisions.

[Sharpie]

The words are definitely abrasive and maybe uncouth, but she's unflappably right on the mark in every quote! Some fire in that one!

[Dominic]

So? She is. She's a lying, disingenuous monster. If she wants to have a negative campaign she can deal with the consequences.

[Kevin Morris]

how is it that when a source says this is off the record it ends up in the quote?? I think this is so indicative of the media today in that the established rules of jornalism have flown out the window.... sad!

[Dominic]

Finally, the truth. Hillary Clinton is a monster. Everyone knows it. She is a liar. She is pure evil. She will destroy the entire party to get the nom. She is a selfish windbag. She started the negative campaigning now she can live with it.

[lhummer Littleton, CO]

You can’t deny that Hillary Clinton is a fighter – a dirty fighter!

[lewis]

I'm still waiting on what exactly Obama is gonna change??
He has liitle experience. The youngsters like the change word..GO HILLARY!

[nT]

When one sees a determined opponent who fights back hard, you think he or she is a monster. Who do you think you are, Mr Obama? A black knight on the white horse?

[Ron]

Samantha Power you would think that you would be talking about issues instead of crazed personal attacks. And what is this about Ohio? I' m from Ohio and very proud of that, We have had more presidents than any other state. If it wasn't for Ohioans, you'd be walking on your trip, instead of flying. Ohio is one of the nicest states in the U.S. , and has some of the nicest people in the country. We are not led like sheep, as some other people are. we have our own minds, and make our own decisions.

[DaveH]

I find some of the reactions to be quite humorous. All this proves is that one of Obama's aides got carried away in the heat of a tight battle. It is hardly a huge negative thrust, nor necessarily any reflection at all of Obama's views.

Yet another media frenzy over what amounts to nearly nothing, and people responding as if it mattered.

[Pennie]

I thought this was a joke, espeically when I heard who said it. They really do hate women and think the poor and working class are stupid.

[rebecca]

Naomi, just HOW has she proven herself in "...crises situation such as 9/11 where she is the Senator from New York, Bosnia, Kosovo negotiations, the Ireland peace proposals, and in China ..." I really believe this is taking away credit from those who actually did the work night and day to make these accomplishments. secondly, you sound like you're from the far right with your bellicose use of the word "patriotic"- so you are probably not going to be voting for hillary anyway.

[John]

Voting for Hillary is voting for a continuation of the Bush nightmare.

If you vote for Hillary, you're voting to further destroy America. Hillary is a closet neo-con.

[Larkin]

Samantha Power: Dems answer to Ann Coulter. Disgraceful.

[John]

Voting for Hillary is voting for a continuation of the Bush nightmare.

If you vote for Hillary, you're voting to further destroy America. Hillary is a closet neo-con.

[Wayne W]

She called her a "monster." ... and what's the problem? (or what's the inaccuracy here? I'm baffled)

[GoreFan]

Time to draft Al Gore. A Gore/Obama ticket would combine experience with judgement.

[kdfrsocal]

But she is a monster! She's a desperate, lying harridan, Bush-lite, and not all that lite. She has negative coattails and if elected may just finish the job Cheney started of dragging this country down the drain.

[John]

Voting for Hillary is voting for a continuation of the Bush nightmare.

If you vote for Hillary, you're voting to further destroy America. Hillary is a closet neo-con.

[Chile]

Why on earth would you take what was said by a campaign member as something condoned by Obama. He didn't make these remarks! In fact, Power has already resigned. There is only substance to what Obama says...not everyone associated to his campaign. Can you control what you spouse says. Would you want to be held accountable for what you spouse says? I haven't decided who I will vote for, but I think its unfair to even consider remarks such as these as Obama's voice! Here everything before you choose!

[jane]

It's ironic that in trying to make Hillary look like a "monster" Samantha Power came off as the desperate aid. The Obama campaign now has to face the reality of politics and all the "change" rhetoric will not be able to cover up that Obama and his team are just like all the other politicians (I mean you don't get to run for president if you haven't been playing the game). Hillary is not being "dirty" in her campaign, she is exposing his weaknesses. That's politics, and his team is doing the same to her, which is fine. That's how we end up knowing who is who and can make an informed decision. Obama has great qualities, don't be fooled into thinking he's not part of the Washington establishment.

[BobGil]

KEY: ned the bush disater.
Hillary would make a fine president, but she cannot be elected. Let's say her "unfavorable rating" is 40% (the lowest number I've heard). That means she would have to take 5/6 of the remaining 60% of voters.
How likely is that?
Let's get real - the most important thing is to end the Bush disaster, which McCain basically pledges to continue.
Obama is your only choice if you want to end the Bush disaster.
Time to wake up!

[Anthony]

One of the key differentiating factors for being a civilized human being and being non-civilized, aminalistic one is the ability to know what is right and what is wrong. When one loses this ability, you know what he/she becomes!
So if we think that there's a need for us to belong to a civilized society, act like its civilized members.
If we don't see there is such a need, then there's no limit, heaven or hellist hell.

[incredulous]

it should not have been said, but the fact remains, she is ripping the party apart -- she is less likely to defeat McCain -- she is snatching defeat from the jaws of victory -- in my book, that does make her a monster.

I can't believe after 2000 and 2004 the Dems are going to do it again, 48% of the public hates Hillary. She is the only person that can unify Republican opposition. It's unbelievable.

[Harriett Heisey]

Well, I think this is just one more incident in which the Obama campaign has shown a very thin skin. He got mad and closed down a press conference when he was pressed for answers about the Canadian memo re: NAFTA. They better toughen up if they expect to win. Once the Republican attack/slime/lie machine gets in full gear, Obama will face withering, relentless attack, and as the Kerry campaign demonstrates if you don't respond you are history. Obama won't remember who he is after they through with him if he doesn't fight back.
I will vote for Hillary. She has been the victim of the R's merciless attacks for years. She is tougher than they are and has the truth on her side. The R's have nothing of substance to say, but that doesn't matter, in their world lies and personal destruction are what count.
Go, Hillary!

[jule]

Jenna, Obama was mores than 20 points behind Clinton just a couple weeks before Texas and Ohio. You should be concerned that a man virtually unheard of until last year, with the name Barack Hussein Obama is kickin' Clinton's butt (arguably the most famous woman and politician in America).

Furthermore, Hillary is lucky Obama has had too much class to drag out all the dirty, sleaze from the Clintons' past. The republicans won't be so kind.

Lastly, after Hillary saying that McCain would be better for president than her fellow democrat, Obama, i don't see how ANY democrat could vote for her. She obviously doesn't care at all about the dem party- to the point that she's rather see the republican agenda continue in Washington than see any democrat other than herself get elected.

[jane]

Ironic that by trying to smear Hillary, Samantha made Obama's camp look desperate.
The "change" rhetoric is not going to cover up that Obama is just another politician. You don't get to run for president if you haven't been playing the game. Hillary is not playing dirty she is exposing his weaknesses as he is hers. That works for us so we know everything about the candidates and can decide whom we like. Obama has many great things going for him, but do not be fooled, he is part of the Washington establishment and does play the game.

[Raoul]

Canadian "wink-wink", then, Obvama policy advisor says neither Obama or Hilary are ready to answer the phone, now, Obama policy advisor calls Hilary a "monster" in the press no less.

Seems to me that the pattern here is disrurbing - the underlying Obama woprld view is that of Black Liberation Theology - also very disturbing.

I have chnaged my mind - behind the rhetoric is an identity crisis and nothing reassuruing in these troubling times. Hilary has earned my vote Obama has lost it.

[Frank Sobel]

Calling Hillary Billary a monster is a fair complement. It now turns out that it was Hillary's campaign representative that actually called the Canadian Embassy to tell the Canadians to take talk about dropping out of NAFTA with "A grain of Salt" and described such talk as "political posturing", not Obama's. She succeeded in sabotaging his campaign by releasing the news one day before the election, before anyone had time to investigate to discover the truth. Google News "Hillary NAFT-Gate".

Lest anyone think Billary isn't a monster I also suggest Googling several websites under the heading "Clinton Body Count". Vince Foster and the Secretary of the Navy weren't the only "suicides" for which they are associated. Also, Google "Mena, Arkansas", and find out what a horrific disaster occurred under Governer Bill's watch, the implementation of "Drugs for Guns", the CIA's financing of the Nicaraguan-Contra war, and the deadly crack cocaine plague.

[jp]

well,its true

[Daniel]

u need to be monster to recognize monster :>

[Olddog]

She is correct.

[Scookie]

She is a MONSTER! no matter what all the canidates suck, they say what gets votes imo.. i find it wack that obama and clinton have to rip each other apart.. but whoa is life right??.. the fact is if it were any women other than her running shed get my vote.. shes ugly and i cant stand her voice, im tired of clintons and to think id have to hear them talk about her for 4 years is weaksauce. not only that but if we get another 9/11 imagine how bad itll be for america and the blame and name calling youll hear about her as president.. it will really suck, we have more important issues we have to deal with let alone some contraversy happining like with her husband bill.. she cried like a sucker, what type of leader cries?!!! its a shame that after 200 years of slavery a white women may become president before a black man in america.. that says alot about peoples attitudes.. we need a change and clinton sure as hell aint it unless she gets a boob job and starts hanging with brittney spears bumping solja boy

[pjf]

In order to win H is willing to throw the dem party under the repbus!!! Suggesting that we vote for McCain,who's experience was in a prison, or vote for Hillary who's experience was living with a president, then we could vote for barbara bush as well, what is she thinking? She has become obsessed with the promise of power and winning and has now proven that she will do Anything to get there!!!! She is a monster and worse.

[bjsnooky]

If they can't stand the heat Obama and pals better fold up shop now. What big bad comments were made about Obama? If it’s the red phone issue that bothers his so much he better develop a thicker skin or just grow up. If Hillary is being considered a “monster” for saying Obama is getting a free ride with the press she is only stating fact. Obama doesn't get asked a lot of questions because he might be offended and the press are afraid of being accused of racism for questioning him. What's going to happen if he gets into office makes mistakes and maybe gets our country into big trouble because he doesn't know what he's doing; are we all going to be afraid to question him or vote him out of office because we are living in “fear” of retaliation. I thought I still lived in America. In reality we know very little about Obama; and what we do know or have learned from his church doctrine can’t be talked about in fear of being called racist or maybe even a monster.

Obama doesn't have the experience Hillary does. Don't think she wasn't totally interested in and informed about everything during her time as first lady. Hillary has traveled internationally and met many foreign leaders; Hillary listened and learned. Everything Hillary has done all these years was with the goal of the Presidency in site. Obama comes out of nowhere (in comparison) and decides to be President. Where is his training and experience coming from; he hasn’t gotten it being senator of Illinois for a few years. Promises are easy to make but I don’t think he has the know-how, commitment or interest in carrying them out for the good of the entire population.

[voter]

Obama is starting to show his true colors. He's an ambitious Chicago politcian with a sweet story. Whenever anybody questions a remark, he says it was taken out of context. And he's almost 50, not that young, and his biggest accomplishment is writing a book about himself. When someone asks why he's qualified to be commander in chief, he says he wouldn't be running if he didn't think he was qualified. Excuse me? Thinking that you're good doesn't automatically mean that you are. Plus, he copied all of Hillary's policies and positions. Bottom line, if you hate Hillary like most of the media, that's your choice. But you have to admit that what you see is what you get. True too for McCain. Obama is another story -- smoke and mirrors, hypocrisy, no substance for the long term.

[Cookie]

The truth is the truth. Hillary threw the first punches. And like the true gentleman, Obama stood above it. Worst than that, I would call her a "devil". The devil can't stand being in the presence of godliness. I would be afraid to deal with a person who can do such unethical things to a person who is trying to run a positive campaign. What other immoral things she is capable of? Scary!! By the way, I am not part of the official working Obama campaign, so I can say whatever I will about her and do not have to offer my resignation, and plus I am retired, AND a support of Senator Obama. I do not see her apologizing about anything she has said or done. At least McCain apologized for what one of his staff members said. I think it was asking a bit much of the Obama staff member to resign. An apology would have been sufficient. After all, there is an amendment that gives freedom of speech, although she was supposed to be careful how she represented Obama's staff. Did McCain's staff member resign? Tell me.
Let's stop being hypocritcal. God is watching all of this.
And youpeople are going to regret everything that is done against each other to get to the top, because when the going gets tough, "tears" Hillary, won't work in the real world of business. Oh, I fogot, you are a white woman, and men from this country do flock to the aide of a crying white woman.

[TXCourtney]

Naomi,

I take offense that you would call Obama supporters unpatriotic. He has motivated millions of previously apathetic folks to participate in our great democracy. He has taught constitutional law, spoken out strongly against the Patriot Act, and consistently fought against the unconstitutional war in Iraq.

I agree with you that Cilnton deserves to be recognized for the great accomplishments you mention above. She is the strongest when she sticks to her record and stays away from negative smear-tactics. Calling someone "Obummer" is no better than "monster."

And don't even get me started on NAFTA, which the Clintons architected in the 90's. All Goulsbee did was to clarify that Obama is not a protectionist, and his statement was mischaracterized by the now famous Canadian memo. Clinton herself even told the Canadians to take her statements on NAFTA "with a grain of salt."

Certainly, Powers was out of line with her statement. I'd like to remind her (and every other Democrat out there) to remember Obama's statement from Tuesday: the world is watching our behavior right now. Let's keep it civil.

[FMan]

Hillary IS a monster! She will say and do anything to get elected. Poor Hillary, everyone is attacking her...boohoo.
I am so sick of the victim card in one hand, and the hammer in her other hand. I am a lifelong Democrat, if she is nominated, for the first time in my life I will not vote!
Obama is the only hope that this country has.
Hillary... of all people, you should know better that a woman's place is not in the kitchen sink. You can't have it both ways.
Please go home now!!!

[Misty]

I suppose this is how Obama and his advisors are going to handle foreign policy and restore America's standing in the world.

Not only did Power undermine her chosen nominee's vaunted clean, well-run campaign, she did it on the world stage. Regardless of her personal feelings for Clinton, Power's comments demonstrates mmaturity and lack of control. In this particular instance, at least, it seems she would have much better served by being guided by EXPERIENCE rather than INSPIRATION.

[Barbara]

What "experience?" Hillary has very little.

[GoreFan]

Clinton includes being the wife of the president as part of her commander-in-chief experience, by that definition Laura Bush is also qualified to be president.

Draft Al Gore. Gore/Obama in 2008.

[Misty]

By "experience", I refer to Hillary's longer tenure in the U.S. Senate, her participation in several imporatnt committees, including the Armed Services Committee, and yes, her front row seat as First Lady. As another poster noted, she wasn't just drinking tea with various foreign dignitaries (although why would you discount the personal relationships formed during such meetings? At the very least, it would likely speed up diplomatic transactions.). She visited regufee camps and orphanages,, etc. etc. She worked with women's groups to promote peace in Northern Ireland.

In contrast, what experience does Obama have? Especially with respect to foreign policy? Instead of just basking one candidate who many Democrats respect, if not love, why doesn't Obama supporters focus on why their candidate is so much better? Hope and change? Change from what to what? What exactly is he going to do to bring about the change? And what exactly in his experience gives him the credibility that he can deliver? I'm going to need more than chants and vague promises.

[Anthony]

I have never trusted Obama and never will. I wouldn't apply for a job I had absolutely NO experience doing. Thats just lying to people and hoping for the best. Its shady and sad.

I want results and experience and REAL change (Hillary). She is a doer and a true leader. Some people don't admit to that because they want Obama elected at all cost. Not me...sorry! I'm a realist and know that out of those two candidates the only one that has a chance of beating McCain and FIXING THIS COUNTRY IS HILLARY! Period, Hands Down, End of Story.

Not to sound mean or anything. But, Obama is just a novelty in this election and once the novelty wears off (and if our presidential candidate) he WILL LOSE to McCain and their goes our parties shot at the white house..again.

People please...just compare resumes. Who has teh experience and the knowledge? Who will have learned from the past and planned for the future. It truly makes me sad how easily some of us lose focus on our goals as a party. Hilary is prepared, organized and knowledgeable. People will try to deny that, but it really just FACT. Don't take that away from her...she has worked hard and deserves this. We deserve her. We need her. She will fix this mess bush has gotten us into, if we let her.

[mq]

She can call him Ken Starr all she wants...when she starts calling him Vince Foster...that's when it's time for Obama to worry.

[Get Real People]

Since when does another person take responsibility for comments made by someone else? Whether this woman was a part of his camp or not, these were comments of her own! I think it is absolutely absurd for people to be jumping all over Obama for the personal opinion of another person. APRIL and BUCKY... are you serious?!?!?!? Your comments are truly SILLY... HOW MANY times has the Clinton camp tried to misrepresent Obama's healthcare plan to make it seem as if he was not for Universal healthcare despite Obama's continuous insistance that he is for Universal Healthcare.. How many times has the Clinton camp tried to take the silly position that Obama was Muslim despite his repeated declaration of Christianity.. Yet the personal opinion of another person somehow makes Obama the bad person... that is ridiculous... and you are talking about dirty politics... You SERIOUSLY need to re-evaluate your positions...

[catherine]

i noticed, reading these blogs yesterday for the first time, that hillary supporters were all simply pleased for her, and obama supporters were all vehemently against hillary, writing in really nasty terms. If this were women bashing an african american, one would call it rightist hate. and the "monster" remark epitomizes this kind of hatred. i thought democrats were for tolerance, collaboration, and altruism. rhetoric isn't the answer--whether it expresses hatred or hope. let's help hillary get the job done of helping this country recover from the disastrous bush years. obama, learn from the lady and take up your efforts again in eight years. why are you so keen to have it all now? relax!

[Janet]

Hillary can dish it out, but she sure can't take it!!!
I am sick of her whining, she needs to grow up.

[Misty]

While Ogama can say that he supports universal health care, his actual plan falls far short.

http://www.nytimes.com/2008/02/04/opinion/04krugman.html

Obama's plan doesn't even try to reach the level of universal health care. In contrast, both Clinton's and Edwards' plans at least tried to achieve universality. Given his failure on such an important issue, what other lofty promise will he fail to even try to deliver on next?

[Gary]

"how is it that when a source says this is off the record it ends up in the quote?? I think this is so indicative of the media today in that the established rules of jornalism have flown out the window.... sad!
- Posted by: Kevin Morris | March 07, 2008 at 09:28 AM"

The Scotsman newspaper actually addressed this criticism - they state that "In this instance... it was established in advance that the interview was on the record."

See
http://thescotsman.scotsman.com/latestnews/Inside-US-poll-battle-as.3854371.jp
("Publish And Be Damned").

Ms. Power blurted, immediately realized her mistake and attempted to retract by claiming retrospective "off the record". The journalist was under no obligation to accede her request.

[c. perry]

You forget, Barack Obama is a Chicago politition of the type my mother-in-law always called "feather merchants". I guess we have new generations that have never been sold a bridge before.

[dunnage]

Worse, in another interview Power states that Obama's Iraq withdrawel plan is but campaign position -- "best case scenario".

[Radical Raul]

Let's deal with reality here, when we swing into the general election, the Republican's are not going to be nice, now is the time to take off the gloves and starting fighting bare knuckled, and build up those callouses for the final bout.

The funny thing is, if McCain wins, we end up with a male version of Hillary. Talk about irony. LOL!!!

[Mike]

I can’t believe how asinine and how petty everyone sounds. So an Obama advisor called Hillary a monster. Do you really believe that the Hillary camp doesn’t have similar epithets for Obama ? Saying that in an interview might be a faux pas, but really…

I think Hillary’s most recent campaign strategy is going to doom the democrats. The scorched earth approach is going to hurt both of them because in all reality when the phone rings at 3 am in the morning, it’s McCain that I want answering it.

I think the frustration over the Clinton tactics are what is showing through in Power’s comments. Obama for the most part is fighting cleanly, Clinton is the underhanded one. And you can hear her desperation in her comments and excuses for deserving our vote. There was one interview where she basically said she was the better candidate because she’s been vetted and the republicans don’t have any new “dirt” left on her. Like there isn’t enough on her already ???

[elisabeth]

OMG.......someone dared to speak the truth!!!!! the term monster is actually quite civil ....Hildabeast too, but that would be too mild

[alice in wonderland]

It would be funny if it were not so sad, how easily the known corrupt and lying Clintons can lead the unthinking masses into trusting her. Even to the point of disrespecting Obama supporters by calling us a "cult", when they are the adoring starry eyed fawning fans of a very dangerous, possibly deranged woman. I could start the list: Jimmy Carter and his family; Governor Sebelius; the former Caroline Kennedy; Bobby Kennedy's widow; many more long time government workers past and present have suddenly taken to idol worship? People who have their own adoring fans, such as Robert DeNiro, Joan Baez, the Grateful Dead, Stevie Wonder are suddenly ready to drink Kool Aid because Hillary told you so?

She and everyone else forgets one thing: I am not a Democrat. I am a citizen.

[Michael Michaels]

Why does everyone assume that Barack and Hilary are just doing the party a favor in warming up their rival in the democratic nominee? And they assume that John McCain is some terrible monster lurching in the near future.

Has anyone ever thought that Barack and Hilary are both terrible candidates? Barack is tough on Nafta but wink-wink does not mean it. Barack will cut NASA funding to put money in education then comes to Houston and says he means he will cut funding for going to the Moon but not in developing vehicles to get there, ie in the next 5 years-is that not the term of office he is running for?

As for Hilary-she was boo hoo, I am a real person. Then no holds barred, stop at nothing to attack-nothing too far below the belt.

Don't you ever think that neither of these charletans deserve to be President.

Let's not forget McCain was considered the Veep for Kerry in 2004, broke party lines to kill the poison pill to end fillibuster on Christian right wing judges (to the dismay of rank and file Republicans) and opposed torture and use of force, but rallied to support our troops once committed. Is that not the opposite of Hillary?

[Tumblemark]

Obama screwed up big time . . .

By making it appear that he fired Power because Hillary whined about being called a bad name off the record. It makes Hillary look stronger and Obama accepts it.

Obama should now say that he's talked to Power and explained that her comment wasn't acceptable to him, that he has accepted her apology, and that he urges Hillary to accept it, too.

He should explain that Power isn't a politician, and that's valuable to his campaign.

Then he should say that he defends his team, that the Clintons aren't going to take Power away, and that Hillary should just get over being called a monster--as she certainly will in the general should she weasel her way to the nomination.

[dbx]

There's no substance to Obama. He is a mere freshman senator - basically an intern who is expected to vote as he is told! Do you really want to send an infant to do an adult's job?

[JC]

When I think of Hillary Clinton, I think . . .

"Don't throw stones if you live in a glass house". If she can't handle being called a monster, then don't act like one.

Hillary Clinton represents the type of politics that NEEED CHANGE. I only hope America smartens up.

[Peter]

It all comes down to this. If Obama is not the Democratic nominee, then I'm voting for McCain.
A vote for Hillary is a vote for a continuance of the same get nothing done, partisan brinkmanship we've had for the last 20 years.

[Liz Wetzel]

There's a lot of negative attacks coming from Obama camp these days. SORE LOSERS I guess.
Hey, ask him why he didnt want to bomb Iraq? Also please tell him, that the tactics he is employing is so juvenile. Employing a white girl to call Hillary monster. So what were you expecting , Hillary camp would respond with Michelle Gorilla? If she responds as such, then Obama camp would go : AHA!! RACIST!... We are smarter than you.
Hahahaha, have run out of ideas so now they want to bring in the race card. WHAT A BUNCH OF LOSERS.
Just because we are keeping quiet doesnt mean we are buying your baloney. We feel good these days because we won so there's no need to add insult to injury by answering you losers.
WELL, WE LOVE THE MONSTER. Go Monster go, we love you!!
:P

[Sternberg]

All of this is irrelevant. After hillary and Obama go thru all the motions and all the primaries, a bunch of old men who are lifetime party members will simply reach down and tell us who they have chosen for us.

[SAMANTHA IS SO FUGLY]

When Hillary was as young as samantha, Hillary is a cutie. Samantha, youre a loser, already fired from your job, meanwhile our Hill will be a president.

Samantha has thick eyebrows and incompatible eyes. She is the monster.

[JD]

I can't believe that people are overreacting so greatly to this statement. It's like these days the language police are so vigilant that one statement, one word that brakes a percieved "language law" throws careers into detention. Get over it, already. Tensions run high in political campaigns, let the person say they're sorry, do their penance and move on. So because of one word, now the Obama campaign lacks probably one of the most brilliant foreign policy minds. Great, that's exactly what a less experienced candidate needs to make the campaign debate going on between the candidates even less stellar than it already is. Maybe if the staffer who said monster goes to work for the Hillary campaign that'll prove how sorry she really is.

[Denise Duncan]

I would never vote for Obama. If he gets nomination, my vote goes to McCain. I am hoping Hillary will eviscerate him between now and PA 4/22.

[obama_in_08]

OH MY WORD!! When did it become a problem to call a spade a spade. If anything we should be upset that she didn't call her something worse.

Who cares that Hill slept with the president of the United States. If that's all you need to be "experienced" then where is Monica?

She's an opportunist, who cares nothing about this country only her own agenda. Which I'm sure has something to do with paying back her husband all over the oval office.

If she gets the nominations I'm voting for McCain, because she's not going to beat him anyway.

Get over it there has been far worse things spewed from her side and I appreciate his supporters bashing her while allowing him to keep his hands clean. I could just see the headlines if it had come from him. "Man attacks Woman" then she gets another chance to use her wrinkly tear ducts.

If she apologizes she should apologize for offending monsters.

[Robert Valiquet]

Hillary is a Monster and Obama is just another Al Capone
or Ken Star......SO ? Tell me something I dont know.
Go Nader!!!!!!!!!

[EZmoney]

McCain is starting to look like a better option. All he needs to do is sit on the sideline and see these 2 tear eachother apart.

[Harry]

I think most news media controlled by capitalists(Republic) talk too much about Obama, but he doesn't have much experience and deserve to be a president. You know that News Media(Republic) wants to rise Obama up because they want Obama nominated by democrat in order to let Obama to compete with John Mccain. At that time, John Mccain will beat Obama easily because American are not ready to accept their black President. More people suport Obama, More chance Democrat will defeated by Republic

[Barbarox]

Hold it --Monster" is a word and Hillary Clinton has told us repeatedly she doesn't believe in "just words", So it must be the sub-verbal "Ergh!" part of Smanatha Power's confession that's triggering the latest discharge Hill's ample bile.

"Ergh" strangely enough is authentic monster talk. Just ask your kids. It's means approximately "I'll do anything for power"

[Casey]

I'm another life-long democrat who will NEVER vote for a Clinton again. What I have seen of her in this campaign validates everything the republican smear machine said about the Clintons. Say anything, do anything to win.

If she is nominated, I will take her advice and vote for McCain. That will be my first republican vote ever in my life, but he is less dangerous than she is. At least we know where he stands. Hillary stands nowhere except on the alter of her own ambitions.

[michael]

The comments about Hillary are downright mean and nasty. Where is the humanity among the young generation, have they lost enough contact with human beings and have relied on computer war games and internet chat to feel enough sympathy for any person?
All those talk about records and secrecy. Let me tell you something young folks, someday you would have to deal with making mature decisions too. All those talk about transparency does not work, just look at you right now. If you ever see Rezko's dealing with Obama right now, do you think you would still be Obama? Of course not, because most of you are idealist fools. Between Hillary putting food on my table and Hillary being ousted for keeping secrets, Id rather have her keep her secrets and put my food on my table. Thats all there is young folks. Stop spending time on the internet, get real human contact.

[Frankenstein]

She stated what over 51% of the American electorate already believe. She lies about Obama's positions everyday. Remember NAFTA-gate! It was her campaign that directed the double-speak comments that she continually flaunts as Obama's since she knows voters are believing her on the outrageous lie. If voters are too stupid to see through her lies, then they can have this monstrosity. If Hillary with her dirty tactics achieves the nomination by swaying the superdelegates to vote for her without having the pledged delegate lead, McCain will be the next President of the United States since there are a majority of voters out there who see her as Frankenstein's bride.

[tb]

The truth hurts, doesn't it? I tend to agree with the statement that Democrats will be too disillusioned to vote on Election Day. HIllary is a disgrace to women, to Americans, and sadly I say these things, because what women doesn't want to support another running for President? It's almost as if, if she gets the nomination, I will do whatever I have to do to ensure she does not win. Sadly.

I also agree with the poster who stated that Hillary represents the kind of politics that NEED change. So very true.

[Don]

"By the time Obama and Clinton are done with each other, the majority of the party will be too disillusioned and disheartened to go out and vote in November."

I haven't read the whole thread, so maybe someone else has pointed this out, but: This is exactly why Republicans think Democrats are a bunch of pussies. They can't even fight amongst themselves without wearying of the battle. If you want to be president, you have to be willing to fight. If you want your candidate to win, you have to be willing to fight.

There isn't one person worthy of the White House who can't be monstrous, if necessary. It's certainly not the only qualification, nor is it the most important. But it's got to be there somewhere. Both Clinton and Obama have it, like it or not.

[Don]

"By the time Obama and Clinton are done with each other, the majority of the party will be too disillusioned and disheartened to go out and vote in November."

I haven't read the whole thread, so maybe someone else has pointed this out, but: This is exactly why Republicans think Democrats are a bunch of pussies. They can't even fight amongst themselves without wearying of the battle. If you want to be president, you have to be willing to fight. If you want your candidate to win, you have to be willing to fight.

There isn't one person worthy of the White House who can't be monstrous, if necessary. It's certainly not the only qualification, nor is it the most important. But it's got to be there somewhere. Both Clinton and Obama have it, like it or not.