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January 31, 2008

What do you think of tonight’s Democratic debate?

Posted: 07:54 PM ET

The Kodak Theatre is also home of the Academy Awards ceremony.

We want your real-time reactions to what Obama and Clinton are saying. Do agree or disagree? Who’s making the most persuasive arguments? Are they addressing the issues or just being combative? Who’s dodging the questions? What would you ask the candidates? Sound off by adding your comment below.

Filed under: CNN Debate

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nashville4obama

January 31, 2008 8:00 pm ET

here we go folks…
wow the Obama supporters really turned out…!

JC

January 31, 2008 8:00 pm ET

I ALSO HOPE THEY ASK BOTH CANDIDATES WHERE THE STIMULUS PACKAGE WOULD COME FROM:

1. PRINTED IN USA

OR

2. BORROWED FROM THE CHINESE GOVT OR A SAUDI PRINCE.

Ronald Raygun

January 31, 2008 8:00 pm ET

With only tow candidates in this democratic debate, CNN should do a better job at allowing equal time to the candidates. Last night’s republican debate was a disgrace as Romney and McCain clearly won time of possession over Paul and the debate’s real winner Mike Huckabee.

Randy

January 31, 2008 8:02 pm ET

My immediate family and circle of friends were all big supporters of John Edwards. With the suspension of Edwards’ campaign, we will all be watching very closely to see whether Clinton or Obama will be able to earn our respective votes. Good luck to both.

JC

January 31, 2008 8:02 pm ET

I ALSO HOPE THEY ASKED THESE 2 ECONOMIC QUESTIONS:

1. SHOULD WE USE PAY GO AND HAVE A BALANCED FEDERAL BUDGET?

AND

2. WHETHER THEY THINK PROTECTING THE DOLLAR IS MORE IMPORTANT THAN BAILING OUT WALL STREET?

Murry

January 31, 2008 8:03 pm ET

I’m so proud to see all those Obama signs outside! Wish I could be there.

elaine

January 31, 2008 8:04 pm ET

I think he looks nervous.

JC

January 31, 2008 8:04 pm ET

I WOULD ALSO WANNA KNOW HOW BOTH FEEL ABOUT THE REPORT THAT AFGHANISTAN IS FAILING AND WHAT THEY WOULD DO ABOUT IT.

Nick 4 Obama

January 31, 2008 8:05 pm ET

California for Obama

Amadu

January 31, 2008 8:05 pm ET

GO hillary

Gina

January 31, 2008 8:05 pm ET

Hopefully CNN will not be biased in their questioning and will not bring up racism, sexism, corruption, lobbyists, Bill Clinton, Rezko, and other irrelevant crap. Hopefully CNN will only asks the candidates about their policies, issues, and positions and how they intend on achieving anything (realistically) in America. I don’t want to hear about “change” and all that other crap either. Talk about what you are gonna do today with the government in the state and crisis it is in. I don’t want to hear about what experience you have unless it’s relevant and you have done something to help this country. No more explanation about present votes either or please whatever you do keep it civil. No more bickering. CNN keep it fair and biased and quit feeding us this mess you call news that you’ve doing lately.

Luke

January 31, 2008 8:06 pm ET

Wisconsin for Obama

ramno

January 31, 2008 8:06 pm ET

let the games begin:)

Casey

January 31, 2008 8:06 pm ET

Great moment! Until Obama started asking for Edward’s vote implicitly.

nashville4obama

January 31, 2008 8:06 pm ET

great remarks by obama…

Bill

January 31, 2008 8:07 pm ET

I would like to hear more specifics about the planned funding – the whys and hows of it all – for their specific stimulus packages.

Joe

January 31, 2008 8:07 pm ET

Obama: Thank you John Edwards…Code for all Edwards supporters vote for me.

Matt

January 31, 2008 8:07 pm ET

I love the energy! Go Barack!

susan

January 31, 2008 8:07 pm ET

I HOPE we can get some real answers from Obama tonight, instead of visionary rhetoric.

Luke

January 31, 2008 8:07 pm ET

Lets all guess how many times change is mentioned in this debate… my guess is 35

Lauren

January 31, 2008 8:07 pm ET

I hope they ask point blank what the candidates will do to end the military’s “Don’t Ask Don’t Tell” policy.

dms

January 31, 2008 8:07 pm ET

No, Nick, I am from California and my vote goes to Hillary!

AnnMarie

January 31, 2008 8:07 pm ET

Wow!! Seeing these two walk out on stage. What a democratic ticket that would be. Wish they would wake up to that real soon. And Edwards in a position in the cabinet.

Jim ( Independent )

January 31, 2008 8:08 pm ET

Wonderful opening statement from Obama !

Luke

January 31, 2008 8:08 pm ET

Visionary rhetoric is better than the status quo susan

bob Boilen

January 31, 2008 8:08 pm ET

before we hit the content…why does it look like they are parents sitting at grade school desks…kind of like parents at 5th grade parent night.

Lauren

January 31, 2008 8:08 pm ET

I also hope that they can focus on the issues rather then bickering with each other.

Luke

January 31, 2008 8:08 pm ET

Visionary rhetoric is better than the status quo Susan…get w/ the majority.

ramno

January 31, 2008 8:08 pm ET

bam bam obama. please stop ..you lengthy open remarks. you are already boring me..

Derek, Jersey Shore

January 31, 2008 8:08 pm ET

Obama holds chair for Hillary. Is he trying to marginalize the female candidate or make up for the state of the union snub? Am I just cynical and he just was being nice?

keith Pike

January 31, 2008 8:09 pm ET

Weak start for Obama,

jess

January 31, 2008 8:09 pm ET

Obama opening great…Hillary is sounding good too

mike

January 31, 2008 8:09 pm ET

just one time i would like obama to say something of substance.

GDC

January 31, 2008 8:09 pm ET

First why did Obama present first. I trust that economic questions are asked. Also I trust that Wolf will step in and keep this directed on the questions at hand.

Matt

January 31, 2008 8:10 pm ET

Either one is a great president. I can’t wait til next year!

Ced

January 31, 2008 8:10 pm ET

Sen. Clinton’s opening seems too scripted….not smart I think…

Fat Jo Mck

January 31, 2008 8:10 pm ET

GOOOOOOO HILLARY!!!

Lauren

January 31, 2008 8:10 pm ET

I’m guessing change will be mentioned 53 times.

Murry

January 31, 2008 8:10 pm ET

Hillary again says she can do something on day one. I’m sure she can do something. It just won’t be the right thing.

Judy

January 31, 2008 8:11 pm ET

I couldn’t agree more with Gina. I always liked CNN but find it harder each day with the level of bias they can’t seem to keep out of their reports. Please. Be objective and unbiased. It is not our place to distort or lead people to your conclusions. Let the people listen to the candidates and make up their own minds.

Luke

January 31, 2008 8:11 pm ET

Bottom line: Hillary is a wolf in sheeps clothing. We need fresh faces in politics.

Matt

January 31, 2008 8:11 pm ET

Let us not be divisive. Let us enjoy the dialogue and conversation

Kellie

January 31, 2008 8:11 pm ET

I think he was being nice…someone has held the chair each time…we are getting cynical

susan

January 31, 2008 8:11 pm ET

Good opening for Hillary..she talked ISSUES. Wow. What a concept!

Andy

January 31, 2008 8:11 pm ET

Hillary is doing a great job. She is showing great leadership and looks and sounds very presidential. He has a strong message and actually looks happy to be there.

Peggy

January 31, 2008 8:11 pm ET

I would like to know if either candidate has promised jobs to anyone that has endorsed them. I was for one to begin with and now I am undecided.

cc

January 31, 2008 8:12 pm ET

Hillary’s comments had some substance. Barak is all about rhetoric.

Carrington Ward

January 31, 2008 8:12 pm ET

No Cable. No live feed…. Agh!

ramno

January 31, 2008 8:12 pm ET

very good first question…..good answer from Hillary…..no poetry though too bad… I will wait obama’s turn:)

Joe

January 31, 2008 8:12 pm ET

Hillary: I want change more than Obama.

Rachel

January 31, 2008 8:13 pm ET

Hillary looks Radiant tonight and even Obama looks polished and a gentleman. It is very nice to see them being civil for a change.

Kim

January 31, 2008 8:13 pm ET

Obama – elequant opening

Clinton – took control, command and set the agenda for tonite – PRESIDENTIAL

Chris, Orlando, FL

January 31, 2008 8:13 pm ET

hillary won the opening remarks round. she was engaging, authentic, and sounded presidential. go hillary!

gershon

January 31, 2008 8:13 pm ET

The first woman president or the first black president replacing the worst president of modern times. Change is a given. Now let’s get to the specifics.

jonjon

January 31, 2008 8:13 pm ET

Obama said acknowledged his friendship with Hillary. Why didn’t Hillary say something to affirm her friendship for Obama?

elaine

January 31, 2008 8:13 pm ET

I support Hillary, I think both openings were effective.

Todd

January 31, 2008 8:13 pm ET

Excellent thus far.

Stacy

January 31, 2008 8:14 pm ET

GO HILARY!! or OBAMA….I like them both. I can’t decide. =(

Vicki

January 31, 2008 8:14 pm ET

After being put on disability last year, my question to these candidates is:

What are YOU going to do to change the 2 yr waiting period for healthcare to those who are found disabled?
Thank you

Bill

January 31, 2008 8:14 pm ET

What either of them “believe” is imaterial! WHAT will they DO to move us to better medical coverage? Why does she advocate aid – and where does she realistically think the dollars will come from?? – to families who have over-sbought regarding their home! Apparently they did’n think of leavinga legacy fortheir children! They knew they couldn’t pay for it! Did they suspect “we the people” would??

Charlie

January 31, 2008 8:14 pm ET

The most important distinction: Obama is left-handed.

But seriously, how can we choose between them? How could we even pick them over extraordinary candidates like Edwards and Richardson? This is a race with some really outstanding candidates.

Russell Hunt

January 31, 2008 8:14 pm ET

I hear Hillary say either her or Barack will be sworn to protect and uphold the Constitution. Their records of service,if they follow habits, They will be lying just like all the others in offices right now with exception of Ron Paul and Mike Huchabee.

One Grain

January 31, 2008 8:14 pm ET

Are we watching running mates!

Gary

January 31, 2008 8:14 pm ET

Wonderful they both had a chance to state positions and they both talked bull about what is wrong … and that they will change our country. I WANT TO KNOW WHAT THEY WILL DO!

Brian

January 31, 2008 8:14 pm ET

Alright, let’s hope this gets interesting with only two people on stage.

Question for Hillary: I don’t have a problem with the idea of universal health care, as it apparently works in Canada and Northern Europe. But how do you expect to pay for it without raising taxes more?

Hmm, Hillary seems old school. Just because Barack is a generation younger than her gives him a serious advantage.

Donnell the Great

January 31, 2008 8:14 pm ET

Don’t forget about New Orleans! We need help rebuilding. Edwards made the city a priority, Obama or Clinton should too!

Linda

January 31, 2008 8:14 pm ET

WOW! She is blowing me away! I thought Obama was THE man, but listen to that woMAN. WOW!

Greg

January 31, 2008 8:14 pm ET

Hillary is doing well to try and bring things back around to a central theme of Democratic change. Obama does well to agree that there are some differences in policy attack, but that, all in all, Dems are focused on the same core problems, just different ways to solve them.

Todd

January 31, 2008 8:14 pm ET

Ok – is Obama stuttering on the issues now.

Good Luck

January 31, 2008 8:14 pm ET

I’m hoping that both candidates will be effective in getting their messages across. Also, that there won’t be any more bickering. Americans need to make an informed decision.

John B

January 31, 2008 8:14 pm ET

I wonder what these two Senators are doing to maintain their sworn duty to represent their states while campaigning? Might be an insight into how they’ll stand up to their sworn duties as President…

Chad

January 31, 2008 8:14 pm ET

Does anyone realize how monumental this is? Our next democratic presidential candidate will either be black or a female. That is huge.

rudy

January 31, 2008 8:15 pm ET

same old hillary dont answer a question just critic republicans

Stay

January 31, 2008 8:15 pm ET

I hope they address our educational system… our children are suffering EVERYWHERE.

Harold Marshall

January 31, 2008 8:15 pm ET

I hope both canidate address 2 strong issues that I have for my family

1) education
2) mortgage crisis

Elizabeth

January 31, 2008 8:15 pm ET

We are all for you Hilary all our friends and family here in Pennsylvania we hope and pray that you win the presidency, because we know you will make a big difference. God bless you!! We will be routing for you!

Minnesota_1

January 31, 2008 8:15 pm ET

Hillary always starts out nice, then watch out!

Hurricane Jeff

January 31, 2008 8:15 pm ET

I’m a democrat. I don’t care who wins this debate. My vote goes to whoever wins the nomination. Go team. Beat the odds.

MHM

January 31, 2008 8:15 pm ET

I believe in Universal Healthcare!! Go HILL!

Gina

January 31, 2008 8:15 pm ET

jonjon please don’t go there with that. let’s stick to the issues tonight. it’s a great day to be a democrat!

Democrats ’08!!

nyctravis

January 31, 2008 8:15 pm ET

they are playing nice! i like it!

JP

January 31, 2008 8:15 pm ET

Hillary gives specifics….Barak is all talk no facts….

Bret Johnson

January 31, 2008 8:15 pm ET

I really enjoy seeing how these two candidates are actually supporting one another and not tearing each other down like the Republicans last night.

Miriam

January 31, 2008 8:15 pm ET

Looks like we are in for a friendly debate!

ta

January 31, 2008 8:15 pm ET

Barack is stumbling. Hillary is much more comfortable expressing herself.

Kim (Liberal)

January 31, 2008 8:15 pm ET

I have to be honest–I would be happiest with Clinton, because she has a real command of the issues. But I wouldn’t be unhappy with Obama–I think the Dems will be back in office after this election.

Derek, Jersey Shore

January 31, 2008 8:15 pm ET

Thank goodness they both came to their senses and will work in a positive way. Democrats are going to vote for either one of these two. If they can keep it positives they will win over independents that were turned off during the last Democratic debate.

Gary

January 31, 2008 8:16 pm ET

A good start to the debate. Please force them to stick to the issues and not bicker back and forth like that mess of a republican debate last night.

Ed

January 31, 2008 8:16 pm ET

Both are horrible phonies—–Wake me up when it is over

Jon

January 31, 2008 8:16 pm ET

Unfortunately, for Barack, you cannot lower cost of health insurance without either lowering quality or access. While it is a nice idea to lower costs the reason costs are as high as they are is because the quality of care is as good as it is.

Murry

January 31, 2008 8:16 pm ET

I agree with Obama’s healthcare plan. I am in between jobs right now and health insurance is very expensive for me. I don’t think I can pay long term for it. We shouldn’t be forced to pay for insurance.

Mark

January 31, 2008 8:16 pm ET

Obama looks very tired and very unenergized. Clinton has a lot of energy and is actually talking about issues that matter to us.

Deanna D.

January 31, 2008 8:16 pm ET

Hillary wants Universal Health Care for everyone, but at who’s cost? If health care was affordable, everyone would have it. What are the specifics of her plan??

Doug

January 31, 2008 8:16 pm ET

Mandate them both on the ticket…I don’t care which one is President or Vice President! They both are “Presidential” material.

Joe

January 31, 2008 8:16 pm ET

I am still waiting for some excitement. At least they should jab

joe

January 31, 2008 8:16 pm ET

reduce cost against filling the pockets of health companies with tax payers money.

ta

January 31, 2008 8:16 pm ET

@JP

I agree. Hillary knows her stuff, while Barack speaks in generalities.

marie

January 31, 2008 8:16 pm ET

obama enough with the i wish and i hope for america to be this and that. uh uh i believe we can do this. in the future this will most likely happen. you should believe everything i’m telling you b/c i sound good saying these things, but when i get in office i won’t be able to handle the pressure, stress, and demands of being a president b/c i have zero experience in running or leading anything. but believe me everything i say will come to past…eventually, right???

Derek, Jersey Shore

January 31, 2008 8:16 pm ET

John they are representing their states as well as McCain is representing Arizona. It is part of the process.

Barry Rashford

January 31, 2008 8:16 pm ET

I believe that Hillary is not being forthcoming when answering the questions. She pauses as if she has to think about what she is going to say and it is evident

soose

January 31, 2008 8:16 pm ET

So far, they are staying on point! I hope this continues.

kliowa

January 31, 2008 8:17 pm ET

Clinton wins opening statement. Obama wasted his opening statement whispering sweet nothings. Clinton got right down to business. Clinton 1- Obama 0

Emma K

January 31, 2008 8:17 pm ET

Freeze the interest rate for 5 years? Thats worse than Bush

Amadu

January 31, 2008 8:17 pm ET

the openings were really good but obama is still on old issue.tell people what they wanna hear

Marc

January 31, 2008 8:17 pm ET

I want to hear some REAL simple views, beliefs, and plans for action in the USA. I do not want to hear their personal issues with each other.

Eddie

January 31, 2008 8:17 pm ET

I think Mr Obama will be ready to be president in about 4 to 8 years, for now Hillary Clinton is by far more qualified to be president. I trully hope the Dem will choose their candidate better. Four years ago we made a huge mistake with John Karry, we better do it right this time for the sake of our great nation and for our children.

ramno

January 31, 2008 8:17 pm ET

they both came in really talk about issues..which is very good.really the stuff that we all are looking for.

elaine

January 31, 2008 8:17 pm ET

Her policy differences wer accurate. Universal health care is essential. I disagree with Obama on his healthcare plan. It is not forcing people to buy something they dont need it, some time they will. If not health care continues to increase because all those who do not have it we will continue to pay.

I am in healthcare and I know costs can go down, if everyone is covered and insurance are required to eliminate pre-exisitng conditions.

cory

January 31, 2008 8:17 pm ET

Obama is right on health care. People will get it if it is cheap. If there is universal health care, there will just be a greater burden on the government and tax payers because people will simply refuse to buy it even if they can afford it.

Xavier

January 31, 2008 8:17 pm ET

Obama is very articulate and it is the first time tonight that I see him explaining his plans in details. He will score big tonight, at least he will on me!

Todd

January 31, 2008 8:17 pm ET

Are they setting up a Hillary/Obama ticket.

Stephen

January 31, 2008 8:17 pm ET

Would have been nice if CNN had blocked out all of those signs behind Wolf before the debate, it was ridiculous to watch all of those people jockeying all of those Clinton and Obama signs…

TOM, Easton PA

January 31, 2008 8:17 pm ET

Where do these candidates stand on the issue of gay marriage and equal rights for gay and lesbian CITIZENS ?

rudy

January 31, 2008 8:17 pm ET

Dont they give out awards for acting in that theatre

Charlie

January 31, 2008 8:17 pm ET

Freezing interest rates reduces incentive for American’s to save and invest, since low interest rates on homes have a significant effect on CDs, money markets, etc…

Rick (pa)

January 31, 2008 8:17 pm ET

HE NAILED THE HEALTH INSURANCE QUESTION!
(what will we do to those that don’t purchase…fine them?)

Canada

January 31, 2008 8:17 pm ET

Obama burried Clinton on Mortagage,Healthacare,and lobbysist,great start of the guy!

chicago

January 31, 2008 8:17 pm ET

Either of you, please. Tell us. How will you pay for what you say? Easy to promise, trick is in paying for it. What are the specifics?????

Carleen

January 31, 2008 8:18 pm ET

I think the two of them would make a great ticket.

greg

January 31, 2008 8:18 pm ET

texas for obama BTW… our primary is actually gonna matter!

Jon

January 31, 2008 8:18 pm ET

Isn’t the carrot and sticks approach the Bush approach

cuffy

January 31, 2008 8:18 pm ET

I think they both came out and brought there best stuff.

Bob

January 31, 2008 8:18 pm ET

What a great debate. Opening statements and first answers on the mark. Barack is a statesman.

californian

January 31, 2008 8:19 pm ET

great start for hillary. obama didn’t really answer the last question. obama- universal healthcare is needed.

southrngrl

January 31, 2008 8:19 pm ET

Barack doing well. If you listen to both of them talk. It’s easy to make a decision — Barack is the only real agent of change in this race.

patrice

January 31, 2008 8:19 pm ET

Either would make fine presidents but Hillary seems the most prepared and has the specifics instead of the broad generalities.

Derek, Jersey Shore

January 31, 2008 8:19 pm ET

I wonder if Barack’s message on Iran and Iraq plays well in Hollywood better than it plays across America where people are a little more realistic.

Alain James

January 31, 2008 8:19 pm ET

I don’t see it.
People say they are inspired by Barack.
I think he is one of the most pompous and programmed politicians I’ve seen.

straight talk??

January 31, 2008 8:19 pm ET

I want to know about campaign finance reform. Is 60 billion dollars enough for a campaign season?????

Jeff

January 31, 2008 8:19 pm ET

Glad to see a civil debate….so far. I think they both learned a big lesson from the last debate!

MHM

January 31, 2008 8:19 pm ET

Obama does not really have a plan for everyone to have Healthcare.

usma06

January 31, 2008 8:19 pm ET

THAT’S RIGHT!!! LET’S GIVE EVERYTHING TO EVERYONE!!! WHO THE HELL IS PAYING FOR ALL OF THIS??

John Belbute

January 31, 2008 8:19 pm ET

Barack was Presidential in the opening, Hillary missed the boat. He has the upper ground

Tim

January 31, 2008 8:19 pm ET

Obama doesn’t look nervous at all

Leila Kincaid

January 31, 2008 8:19 pm ET

The debate is only 18 minutes underway, but I sense a cool and mutual decision by both Barak Obama and Hillary Clinton to act respectfully toward each other.
I hope this seeming truce flavors the entire debate.

zoey

January 31, 2008 8:19 pm ET

what a clear, concise and comprehensive opening statement from Hillary!

Pauly

January 31, 2008 8:19 pm ET

Barack seems like he’s rambling. It’s hard to follow to get the point of what he’s saying. they’ve been stumping and delivering countless speeches over the last year. It shouldn’t be as clumsy.

Source: politicalticker.blogs.cnn.com