blogHillary

Crowds in South Dakota: During the last day of campaigning in South Dakota, Hillary greeted voters across the state. In Yankton hundreds turned out to see her. In Sioux Falls, campaign officials estimate 3,500 to 4,000 people attended the event at the W.H. Lyons Fairgrounds. Many stood outside listening to the speech on speakers. One supporter said, I'm really impressed she's taken the time to listen to South Dakotans. Read more. Automatic Delegate Watch: Yesterday, Tompkins County Democratic Committee Chair and New York automatic delegate Irene Stein announced her support for Hillary Clinton. Louisiana Democratic State Party Chair and automatic delegate Chris Whittington also announced his support for Hillary Clinton yesterday saying: There is no question that she is the strongest Democrat to go toe-to-toe with John McCain in a general election. It is our responsibility as automatic delegates to choose the candidate we believe best fit to beat Senator McCain. That candidate is Senator Clinton. An Absentee Ballot in SD: From her hospice bed six weeks ago, 88-year-old Florence Steen marked an absentee ballot for Clinton, fulfilling a life-long dream for a woman born in 1920, months before federal law guaranteed women the right to vote. When Steen died her vote went with her [Steen s] dying wish will be multiplied many times in the official vote tally by people who intend to vote or have already filled out absentee ballots for Clinton, with Florence Steen in mind The first of those votes was the most meaningful. It came from Steen's husband He decided to do something he hadn't done in years: He voted -- also by absentee ballot -- for Clinton. Read more. Leading the Popular Vote: According to Real Clear Politics, Hillary s popular vote lead over Sen. Obama has grown with her Puerto Rico victory. She has won 17,916,763 votes compared to 17,723,200 for Sen. Obama when every state that has already voted is included in the tally. Read more. Previewing Today: Hillary celebrates Election Night at Baruch College in New York City.

Why Hillary is the Strongest Candidate: In a letter to all superdelegates, Hillary outlines her case for why she believes she is the strongest candidate: I believe I am best prepared to lead this country as President and best prepared to put together a broad coalition of voters to break the lock Republicans have had on the electoral map and beat Senator McCain in November. Read more here. For additional information - read the letter, memo, and general election matchup information here. Swing-State Advantage: According to Gallup: In the 20 states where Hillary Clinton has claimed victory in the 2008 Democratic primary and caucus elections (winning the popular vote), she has led John McCain in Gallup Poll Daily trial heats for the general election over the past two weeks of Gallup Poll Daily tracking by 50% to 43%. In those same states, Barack Obama is about tied with McCain among national registered voters, 45% to 46%...In contrast, in the 28 states and the District of Columbia where Obama has won a higher share of the popular vote against Clinton in the 2008 Democratic primaries and caucuses, there is essentially no difference in how Obama and Clinton each fare against McCain All of this speaks to Sen. Clinton's claim that her primary-state victories over Obama indicate her potential superiority in the general election. Read more. A Champion For Native Americans: At a campaign stop in Kyle, SD yesterday, Hillary spoke to a mostly Native audience of about 350 people and pledged to fight for the issues that affect Native American veterans as well as all Native American families. I will be your champion. I will fight for you. I will stand up for you. And I will work my heart out for you. Read more. Puerto Rico Matters: Puerto Rico and its citizens are gearing up for a chance for Puerto Ricans to shout to the world about what's important to them on primary day on Sunday. Because of its extraordinarily high turnout rate, it s possible that the number of voters that come out to vote on Sunday will be about the same number that turned out in states like Missouri and New Jersey. Read more. If You Watch One Thing Today: Staffers on Hillary s campaign describe their support. Watch here. Previewing Today: Hillary hosts Solutions For South Dakota s Future events in Huron, SD and Watertown, SD. On Tap: Hillary will host a Rally for Puerto Rico s Families in Old San Juan, PR.

By the Numbers: A new ABC News/Washington Post poll shows that more than six in 10 Democrats 64 percent say Clinton should remain in the race. A USA Today Poll also shows a majority of Democrats want Hillary to continue. Read more and more. Honored to Have Hillary Yesterday, Hillary made a campaign stop at Westside High School in Wyoming County, WV. While the hoarseness in her voice indicated the strains of campaigning, her enthusiasm remained strong I m honored to have Hillary in Wyoming County, noted Delegate Richard Browning This speaks volumes about who she cares about the small town people. Read more. On the Air: In a new radio ad, Hillary encourages West Virginians to get out and vote: We can pick a president. After all, no Democrat has been elected president without winning West Virginia for almost a hundred years. Listen here. Clinton Fever Hits Bowling Green Clinton fever has come to Bowling Green. Kentucky for Hillary opened a new office and held an open house Monday. Crowds turned out to show support for their favorite candidate. A candidate they hope will stand out in Kentucky next week The woman has a lot of purpose, said Barbara Burns, a Clinton supporter. She wants to serve our country as best she can, and I believe she can do that as president. Read more. SD Endorsement Watch: Yesterday, 41 former South Dakota state legislators and constitutional officers endorsed Hillary for President. With over 330 years of combined experience, they believe that South Dakotans need a President who will stand with them. Former State Representative Al Waltman said, Hillary Clinton has real solutions to our economic problems and she has the experience and resolve to make those plans a reality. Read more. Previewing Today: Hillary celebrates election night in Charleston, WV. On Tap: This Friday and Saturday, Hillary returns to the Beaver State, where she will meet with Oregonians from across the state.

Mother’s Day Celebration: Today Hillary and Chelsea celebrate Mother’s Day in Grafton, WV, where the holiday originated 100 years ago. A Mother’s Day Wish: In a new video, Chelsea shares some of her fondest memories of her mother, and asks mothers across the country to share their mother’s day wishes with her. Watch here. Why I Support Hillary: This Mother’s Day, the deputy campaign counsel blogs, “It is because of my daughters that I understand what is at stake in this election, and why it is urgent and necessary that we choose for our country the leadership that we deserve…As a mother, what I wish most for my daughters is a bright future. For that, their country needs to get back on course.” Read more. Automatic Delegate Watch: Massachusetts delegate Arthur Powell yesterday announced his support for Hillary. If You Read One Thing Today: In a Charleston Gazette op-ed today, Hillary writes, “For the past seven years, I know so many of you have felt invisible to our president - holding your breath at the gas pump and the grocery checkout line; wondering what you'll do when health insurance disappears when a job does; seeing your loved ones who served our country in war ill-served when they return home. I am running for president to stand for you and fight for your dreams and your future.” Read more. “The Vote of a Lifetime” “To [Florence Steen], a woman born seven months before her gender won the right to vote in August 1920, seeing Clinton's name on a presidential ballot and marking her vote nearby was a dream realized …‘She was very alert, very serious in studying the ballot,’ [her daughter, Kathy] Kraus said. ‘And when she marked it, she just kept circling and circling that mark with her pencil.’” Read more. In Case You Missed It: Only one thing matters; winning the Presidency in November. Hillary Clinton has proven she is by far the strongest candidate and most likely to achieve that victory. How can she convince the Democratic Party delegates? Read more. On Tap: Tomorrow, Hillary will attend events in Montgomery, Clear Fork, Logan, and Fairmont, West Virginia.

By the Numbers: A new USA Today/Gallup Poll shows Hillary lead[ing] Obama among Democrats and Democratic-leaning independents by 7 percentage points Obama led by 10 points only two weeks ago. Read more. State of the Race: Howard Wolfson and Phil Singer assess the state of the race on a call this morning at 9:45 a.m. ET. Endorsement Watch: Groundbreaking IndyCar Series driver and team owner, Sarah Fisher endorsed Hillary today... Fisher said: [w]e need a president who will stand up for us and be a fighter for Hoosiers and all Americans. Read more. In Case You Missed It: Today s NYT explores how yesterday, Clinton Steals One Show, While Obama Endures Another: Television interviews provide snapshots, not full portraits, but that does not make them any less telling. Mr. Obama revealed that he was not impervious to pressure, while Mrs. Clinton once again proved that it takes more than a village to make her sweat. Read more. Click here to read the transcript and watch the video of Hillary on ABC s This Week with George Stephanopoulos. On the Gas Tax: Yesterday in South Bend, IN, Hillary scolded both Sen. Barack Obama (D) and elite opinion for opposing her proposals to fix the ailing economy [she said on the race:] There's a big difference between us, and the question is: Who understands what you re going through, and who do you count on being on your side I believe I have what it takes to stand up and fight for you when you need a president on your side. Read more. A Critical Distinction: Communications Director Howard Wolfson described a critical distinction in this race between, in Senator Clinton, someone who understands the pain that middle class and working class families are feeling, who wants to help bring immediate relief to them and Senator Obama, somebody who just doesn t seem to understand that middle class families are hurting, working class families are hurting and that they need relief. Read the transcript here and listen here. Ready to Deliver: In a Charlotte Observer op-ed, Hillary Clinton writes to voters in North Carolina: It has been an honor and privilege to travel across North Carolina and talk to you about the issues that matter most to you and your families. I know how hard you're working, how much you love this country, and how big you dream for your children. But I also know that you're feeling squeezed from every direction I don't back down from a challenge -- and neither do the American people. It's up to all of us to keep the promise of America for the next generation, and together, that's exactly what we'll do. Read more. Previewing Today: Hillary hosts Get Out The Vote events in Greenville and High Point, NC. She also hosts Get Out The Vote events in Merrillville, New Albany, and Evansville, IN. Hillary s stop in Evansville will mark her 100th campaign stop in the Hoosier State. Recapping Yesterday: Hillary spoke before a crowd of 2,300 at the Indiana Democratic Party s annual Jefferson-Jackson Day dinner, offering her pledge to continue to fight for every American from the moment she becomes president: There's one thing you know about me. I am no shrinking violet. I may get knocked down. But I will always get right back up, and I will never quit until the job is finished. Read more.

Previewing Today: Tonight, Hillary participates in ABC s Philadelphia Democratic Primary Debate. Earlier today, she delivers remarks to the Building Trades National Legislative Conference. In Case You Missed It: The front page USA Today article is headlined: Obama tied to lobbyists, but boasts of not taking money. Read more. First Hundred Days: Yesterday, Hillary told the Newspaper Association of America: Starting from Day One, the Bush-Cheney era will be over in name and in practice and outlined her plan for the first 100 days of the presidency. Read more and more. Pennsylvania Mayors for Hillary: Over 100 Pennsylvania mayors endorsed Hillary yesterday, citing her Pennsylvania roots and commitment to Pennsylvania values. Read more and more. Speaking Out: In a letter yesterday, mayors across Indiana wrote to Sen. Obama and said his comments demeaned the values of small Midwestern towns. The mayor of Oak Hill, WV said: I think that [Sen. Obama s comment] characterizes the fact he is out of touch with West Virginia, and many other states the Heartland of America. The Pittsburgh Tribune-Review says Sen. Obama s bitter pill is going to be tough to swallow What Obama dished out was a cold, stinging slap, and not just to Pennsylvanians but to Americans across the country. Read more, more and more. Tar Heels for Hillary: The campaign announced 1,500 North Carolina women for Hillary yesterday. Gladys Graves, former president of the North Carolina Association of Editors and Hillary supporter, said, [Hillary] is an intelligent and caring woman and we need someone like that in the White House. Read more. Stronger Against McCain: A new Rasmussen survey of likely Florida voters shows Hillary leading the state against Senator McCain The same poll shows Senator McCain would beat Senator Obama in that state by 15 points (53-38). Read more. FL Voices Count: In an interview with the St. Petersburg Times, Hillary said voters in FL are tired of being disenfranchised. They saw a Democrat deprived of a congressional seat in 2006 because mysteriously thousands of votes weren't counted. They saw problems in the '04 election. And everybody remembers 2000...We're Democrats. I thought we believed in counting votes. Read more. Tax Day Test: For all of Sen. Obama s rhetoric about the need for tax return transparency, you'd think he'd have released all of his tax records. Guess again Sen. Obama has refused to release his tax returns for 1997, 1998 and 1999, even though he was in public life as a state senator during those years. During this period of time, Sen. Obama was accepting contributions from special interest lobbyists, PACs and even directly from corporations. Read more. Stretch on Ethics Reform: Politifact reports on a new ad airing in PA that Obama claims he was the driving force in the Senate on ethics reform. We find he was a player but not the quarterback This new ad both exaggerates the role Obama played in the debate, and fails to put the new ethics law in any sort of context. Read more.

Ready to be Commander-in-Chief: Yesterday, Hillary hosted a “Solutions for a Strong Military” town hall in Aliquippa, PA...Standing alongside retired Generals and Admirals, and local PA vets, Hillary discussed her “agenda to improve veterans services.” Read more. Calling on President Bush: At yesterday’s event, Clinton also “demanded that President Bush disclose his ‘endgame’ in Iraq…She also asked Bush to pledge in a speech today on Iraqi policy that he would allow Congress to ‘review and vote on’ any long-term security pact the administration negotiates with the Iraqi government.” Read more and more. Setting the Record Straight: In a new 60-second radio ad, the Clinton campaign aims to set the record straight on Sen. Obama’s energy record. A misleading television ad claims Sen. Obama doesn’t take money from oil companies when in fact “Obama has accepted more than $213,000 from individuals who work for companies in the oil and gas industry and their spouses.” Read the fact check. Listen here. New Endorsement: Former Pittsburgh Mayor and superdelegate, Sophie Masloff, endorsed Hillary today in the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette. Read more. Strong in Puerto Rico: A new Puerto Rico poll conducted by Research & Research shows Hillary with a 13-point lead over Sen. Obama. Results here. Partner in Democracy: Yesterday, as “part of a whirlwind tour of eastern Pennsylvania…[former Secretary of State Madeleine] Albright told a group of about 75 people gathered in a classroom…‘We had a partnership. [Hillary] was able to deliver a tough message to leaders and then go out to the countryside and meet with women’s groups and show her human side.” Read more. Smart, Tough, and Committed: In a Philadelphia Inquirer op-ed, a supporter says of Hillary: “She still believes that ideas matter. She is intellectually brainy and emotionally brawny. She has the kind of remarkable endurance that makes it possible for her to press on, despite the klieg lights of controversy and criticism almost always trained in her direction. These are critical attributes for a world leader, and a U.S. president.” Read more. Rocket Man Lends Star Power: Sir Elton John performed at a Hillary event at Radio City Music Hall in New York, raising more that $2.5 million for her campaign. Read more. Today in PA: Hillary attends the Beaver County Democratic Dinner in Hopewell Township, and gives remarks at the Allegheny County Jefferson Jackson Dinner in Pittsburgh. On Tap: Hillary will campaign in the Philadelphia area on Friday and in Indiana on Saturday. In Case You Missed It: The McCain campaign is renewing criticisms of Sen. Barack Obama for “deriding the public financing system for presidential campaigns...call[ing] it the latest signal that the Democratic candidate may abandon a promise to participate in the system, should he become the Democratic nominee.” Read more.

THE PUNDITS Hillary Clinton will lose New Hampshire and the race will be over THE REALITY Hillary Clinton wins New Hampshire, defying the predictions and the polls THE PUNDITS Hillary Clinton will lose the big states on Super Tuesday and the race will be over THE REALITY Hillary Clinton wins the big states on Super Tuesday and wins them by double digits THE PUNDITS Hillary Clinton will lose Texas and possibly Ohio on March 4th and the race will be over THE REALITY Hillary Clinton wins both Texas and Ohio on March 4th and she wins Ohio by double digits THE PUNDITS Despite Hillary Clinton's big victories on March 4th, the math works decisively against her and the race is essentially over THE REALITY The math is simple: neither candidate has reached the number of delegates required to secure the nomination and either candidate can win THE PUNDITS Barack Obama is substantially ahead in the pledged delegate count; pledged delegates are the only measure of success; therefore the race is essentially over THE REALITY The candidates are within fractions of one another on delegates; Barack Obama needs super delegates to win; and a marginal pledged delegate lead does not determine the outcome THE PUNDITS Barack Obama is substantially ahead in the popular vote; Florida and Michigan don t count; therefore the race is essentially over THE REALITY The popular vote is virtually tied; half of Barack Obama's narrow vote advantage is from his home state; and his lead excludes Florida and Michigan THE PUNDITS Once the remaining states vote, Barack Obama will be substantially ahead in delegates and votes and the race will be over THE REALITY The race is a dead heat now and no one knows where things will end up after millions of remaining voters in the upcoming states make their choice THE PUNDITS Hillary Clinton's situation is dire; her campaign is struggling; her supporters are disillusioned and desperate THE REALITY Hillary Clinton and her supporters are calm, confident, and focused heading into the key state of PA, where she is running strong THE PUNDITS Hillary Clinton s campaign lacks significant grassroots energy; only one candidate has mobilized supporters to take action for the campaign THE REALITY Hillary Clinton s supporters across America have written letters, blogged, donated tens of millions of dollars, volunteered millions of hours and made millions of calls THE PUNDITS There is a loud and growing chorus of voices asking Hillary Clinton to withdraw from the race THE REALITY Precisely the same number of voters (22%) think Barack Obama should drop out of the race as Hillary Clinton THE PUNDITS Hillary Clinton is the candidate running a negative, divisive campaign; she is throwing the kitchen sink at Barack Obama THE REALITY Barack Obama has been throwing the sink, the stove, the plates and the garbage can at Hillary Clinton, attacking her integrity and character every day THE PUNDITS For Hillary to win the nomination, super delegates will have to overturn the will of the people THE REALITY The will of the people is split and both candidates need - and are making their case to - super delegates THE PUNDITS Hillary Clinton is threatening to poach pledged delegates from Barack Obama THE REALITY Barack Obama is reportedly already trying to poach pledged delegates from Hillary Clinton THE PUNDITS Florida and Michigan s voters won't be heard and their delegates won t be seated all because of complicated procedural roadblocks THE REALITY Barack Obama is intentionally disenfranchising voters in two critical states for purely political reasons, namely, that he'll lose his small advantage if they count THE PUNDITS Every single word or action from Hillary Clinton, her campaign, her surrogates and her supporters is part of a calculated and cynical political strategy THE REALITY Hillary Clinton is a loyal Democrat, a lifelong public servant, a tireless and tenacious candidate, and is fighting hard - and fair - to win with the help of millions of dedicated supporters

If You Read One Thing Today: Paul Krugman writes in today s New York Times, [T]he substance of [Hillary s] policy proposals on mortgages, like that of her health care plan, suggests a strong progressive sensibility. [and] continue to be surprisingly bold and progressive. Read more. Previewing Today: Hillary makes stops across Indiana, where she hosts a series of Solutions for the American Economy town hall and roundtable events. Real Solutions: Yesterday in North Carolina, Hillary kicked off her six-day Solutions for the American Economy Tour with the announcement of a new $2.5 billion per year workforce training program. Read more. If You Watch One Thing Today: Hillary says, If the phone were ringing, [Senator McCain] would just let it ring and ring and ring. Watch here. Erie, Pennsylvania: Yesterday, more than 300 people packed the opening of Hillary s newest office. Read more. Fayetteville, North Carolina: Yesterday, more than 1,000 tarheels gathered to see Hillary at a town hall event here. One, a 25-year-old freshman at Fayetteville State University, said, She showed she has the heart to help the average person. It made me go wild. It would be crazy not to vote her into office, said another woman, who arrived for the speech at 6:30 a.m. to hear Hillary speak at 3:00. Read more. By the Numbers: A new Rasmussen tacking poll shows Hillary leading Senator Obama nationally (46-44). See the results here. The Hillary I Know: The Student Body President of West Virginia University on why he s supporting Hillary: To hear Hillary talk about the big goals she's setting for our country really should inspire all of us to join with her to bring real change to America. Read more. On Tap: This Saturday, Hillary visits Louisville, Kentucky and attends the annual state Governor Ruby Laffoon Dinner in Madisonville. Just the Facts: One week after Sen. Clinton called for a second stimulus package with $30 billion to help states and localities fight foreclosures, Sen. Obama announced a second $30 billion stimulus package . Response from policy director Neera Tanden: When it comes to fixing the economy, we need leadership, not followership. Read more.

Previewing Today: Hillary and her daughter Chelsea co-host a March to Victory rally in Washington, DC. RSVP here. Strong on the Economy: Yesterday, Hillary unveiled her retirement security plan to help Pennsylvania families save for the future. Read more about Hillary's plan and her long record of leadership on the economy. By the Numbers: A new Rasmussen poll shows more Democrats supporting Hillary in the general election (71-64) and viewing Hillary more favorably than Senator Obama (74-67) See results here. If You Watch One Thing Today: Hillary goes on the air in Pennsylvania with Level. Watch here. The Hillary I Know: Philadelphia Mayor Nutter lays out his case for Hillary. I believe that Senator Clinton shares my commitment to healing lives and broken families while, at the same time, healing a nation It's a new day in Philadelphia and Hillary Clinton is bringing new leadership that I believe will make life better - for all of us. Read more. Endorsement Watch: Yesterday, the Liberty City Democratic Club, a leading LGBT political group in PA, overwhelmingly endorsed Hillary. [Hillary s] record of accomplishment is proof positive that she'll be a fighter for the LGBT community We need her experience working for us. Read more. In the States: This week, the campaign has opened new offices in Raleigh, North Carolina and in Bristol, Easton, and Norristown, Pennsylvania, as well as in Indianapolis and New Albany, Indiana. On Tap: Tomorrow, Hillary delivers an economic policy address in Raleigh, North Carolina. In Case You Missed It: Senator Obama s campaign continues engaging in negative, slanderous attacks on Senator Clinton. Read more. Just words? Senator Obama has been found misspeaking and embellishing facts about himself more than ten times in recent months. Read more.

MYTH: Barack Obama is running a positive campaign that will unite Americans. FACT: Barack Obama and his advisers have conducted a divisive full assault on Hillary's character. While talking a lot about the politics of hope, change and unity, Sen. Obama and his campaign have been conducting a relentless and singularly personal assault on Hillary's character. They have blanketed big states with false negative mailers and radio ads and have described Hillary and her campaign as disingenuous, divisive, untruthful, dishonest, polarizing, calculating, saying whatever it takes to win, attempting to deceive the American people, one of the most secretive in America, deliberately misleading, literally willing to do anything to win, and playing politics with war. This full assault on Hillary's integrity and character has reached a new peak since Hillary's victories on March 4th. One of Sen. Obama's top surrogates equated President Clinton with Joe McCarthy; another called Hillary a monster; and his campaign manager held an angry conference call claiming that Hillary is deeply flawed and has character issues. That's neither unifying nor hopeful. If Sen. Obama really is the prohibitive favorite some say he is, these negative attacks make absolutely no sense. Why would a frontrunner seek to attack and divide? If Sen. Obama can't unify Democrats in a primary, how can he unify Americans in a general election? ===== MYTH: The delegate math works decisively against Hillary. FACT: The delegate math reflects an extremely close race that either candidate can win. The Math is actually very simple: with hundreds of delegates still uncommitted, NEITHER candidate has reached the number of delegates required to secure the nomination. And EITHER candidate can reach the required number in the coming weeks and months. That is indisputable. No amount of editorials, articles, blog posts, charts, graphs, calculations, formulas, or projections will change the basic fact that either candidate can win. Pundits who confidently proclaim that Hillary has no hope of winning because of the math, have counted Hillary out of this race three times before. Each time they based their sober assessments on 'facts' and 'realities' -- and each time they were wrong. In a campaign with dozens of unexpected twists and turns, bold prognostications should be viewed with a healthy dose of skepticism. Look no further than Sen. Obama's full assault on Hillary's character to judge whether he thinks this election is over. The fact is this: Hillary and Sen. Obama are locked in a very close, hard-fought campaign and Hillary is demonstrating precisely the strength of character required of a president. Her resilience in the face of adversity, her faith in the voters, her capacity to rise to every challenge, are part of the reason she is the best general election candidate for Democrats. And it is why she is increasingly strong against John McCain in the polls at the same time that Sen. Obama is dropping against Sen. McCain. ===== MYTH: For Hillary to win, super delegates must overturn the will of the people. FACT: The race is virtually tied, the will of the people is split, and both candidates need super delegates to win. The Obama campaign and Sen. Obama's surrogates have engaged in a sustained public relations effort to convince people that the election is over and that if super delegates perform their established role of choosing a candidate who they believe will make the best nominee and president, they are somehow overturning the will of the people. They have the audacity to make this argument while quietly and systematically courting those very same super delegates. They are courting them because they know that Sen. Obama needs super delegates to win. The Obama spin is being parroted daily by pundits, but it is patently false. The race is virtually tied; the will of the people is split. By virtually every measure, Hillary and Sen. Obama are neck and neck -- separated by less than 130 of the more than 3,100 delegates committed thus far and less than 1% of the 27 million+ votes cast, including Florida and Michigan. Less than 1%. An incremental advantage for one candidate or the other is hardly a reason for super delegates to change the rules mid-game. Despite the Obama campaign's aggressive spin and pressure, the RULES require super delegates to exercise their best independent judgment, and that is what they will do. Even Sen. Obama's top strategist agrees they should. If not, then why don't prominent Obama endorsers like Senators Kerry (MA) and Kennedy (MA), and Governors Patrick (MA), Napolitano (AZ) and Richardson (NM) follow the will of their constituents and switch their support to Hillary? After all, she won their states. And if this is truly about the will of the people, then Sen. Obama's short-sighted tactic to run out the clock on a revote in Florida and Michigan accomplishes exactly two things: it disenfranchises Florida and Michigan's voters; and it hurts Democrats in a general election. Apparently, for the Obama campaign, the will of the people is just words. ===== Forward this to a friend.

Real Solutions: Yesterday, Hillary released her plan for a second stimulus package to address the housing crisis that includes $30 billion in immediate assistance to at-risk communities and families facing foreclosure. Read more. In Case You Missed It: Recent polls show a strong swing in momentum to Hillary since the Texas and Ohio primaries...including a Rasmussen poll showing her with a strong lead in West Virginia (55-27). Read more. Count Every Vote: Yesterday, Hillary called on Sen. Obama to support a Michigan re-vote. She said, I do not understand what Senator Obama is afraid of, but it is going to hurt our party and our chances in November and so I would call on him, once again, to join me in giving the people of Florida and Michigan the chance to be counted as we move forward in this nominating process. Read more. Connecting in Terre Haute: In Terre Haute yesterday, hundreds of Wabash Valley residents turned out to see Hillary. I ve wanted all my life to meet Hillary, said one supporter and over and over, local journalists remarked on her surprising warmth, natural manner and graciousness. Crowds in Evansville: Hillary was greeted by a sea of flashes and homemade signs from over 4,000 people. Said one supporter, This is a once in a lifetime thing. Read more. March Madness: During the final four days of vote registration, Pennsylvanians for Hillary will knock on thousands of doors, hold dozens of events, and reach thousands of people throughout the state. Read more and encourage all the Keystaters you know to register. The Hillary I Know: America Ferrera supports Hillary because she is listening to every single American, and working her hardest on all those issues that truly make a difference in their lives. Read more.

By the Numbers: “Sen. Hillary Clinton's primary victories in Texas, Ohio and Rhode Island have… brought her into a statistical dead heat with Sen. Barack Obama among registered Democrats and Democratic leaners, according to a new national Newsweek Poll.” Help Hillary: From the comfort of their own homes, volunteers throughout America will encourage people caucusing today in Wyoming to support Hillary. Though the campaign's easy to use online calling tool, supporters will call targeted voters. To help Hillary by making calls, click here. Just Words: Sen. Obama’s foreign policy advisor described Sen. Obama’s proposal for troop withdrawal from Iraq as a "best case scenario.” … “He will, of course, not rely on some plan that he’s crafted as a presidential candidate or a U.S. Senator.” Watch. If You Read One Thing Today: Sen. Obama’s “losses in big states spur general-election fears.” Read more. New Radio Ads: The campaign began airing “Energy” statewide in Wyoming and “Invisible” and “Neighbor” statewide in Mississippi. Listen here, here, and here. In Case You Missed It: “Clinton's gritty wins in Ohio and Texas are a reminder that she has built deep, durable connections to Latinos, seniors, working-class whites, and, above all, women… Clinton… has now won more primary votes than any Democratic nominee in history.” Read more. Previewing Today: Democrats caucus in Wyoming… President Bill Clinton holds events in Pass Christian, Biloxi, Ellisville, and Meridian, Mississippi. Recapping Yesterday: “An enthusiastic crowd swarmed the Hattiesburg Train Depot” to hear Hillary speak in Mississippi. One supporter “held a sign that said ‘Hillary Is My American Idol.’” In Casper, Wyoming, “people from all across the state cheered as Clinton talked about bringing troops home from Iraq, providing universal health care and creating energy consistent with protecting the environment.” After hearing Hillary in Cheyenne, Jeanie Martinez said, "she talks about specific solutions.” FactCheck: “Democratic presidential hopeful Hillary Clinton never gave Canada any secret assurances about the future of NAFTA such as those allegedly offered by Barack Obama's campaign, Prime Minister Stephen Harper's office said.” Read more.

If You Read One Thing Today: Hillary has more good news to follow her election wins in Texas and Ohio: The next big contest comes in [Pennsylvania] where she goes in with several advantages. Read more. New Ad: In Wyoming, the campaign launched a statewide radio ad, Heart. Listen. Making News: Florida Gov. Charlie Crist and Michigan Gov. Jennifer Granholm called for Florida and Michigan s delegates to be seated at the national conventions. We must restore the rights of the more than 5 million voters whose voices have been silenced. By the Numbers: A new Washington Post-ABC News poll has Hillary up 6 over Sen. McCain (50-44). Previewing Today: Hillary holds meeting with military officers in Washington D.C. and speaks at the Jefferson-Jackson-Hamer Day Dinner in Canton, Mississippi... President Bill Clinton holds events in Riverton, Rock Springs, and Laramie, Wyoming Chelsea joins President Clinton in Riverton and meets with students at Casper College in Wyoming. The Hillary I Know: Yesterday in Philadelphia, Chelsea spoke to more than 2,000 spectators and students at the University of Pennsylvania. The crowd seemed to be largely in the Clinton camp. Chelsea focused on Hillary Clinton's preparedness for the presidency, as well as major issues like health care and foreign policy. New Politics? The morning after stinging losses in three of four primaries, Barack Obama yesterday came out swinging against rival Hillary Rodham Clinton ... Obama's aides are more than ready (for) a full-blown attack on the Clintons Obama signals more aggressive attack. If You Watch One Thing Today: Sen. Obama's top foreign policy advisor admitted that Sen. Obama is not ready to answer a 3 am phone call in the White House during a crisis. Watch. In Case You Missed It: Rezko in debt $50 million; How did he afford Obama lot? Court transcript says Rezko depends on family handouts of $7,500 a month. Read more.

In the closing hours before the March 4th elections, I wanted to share an amazing phone call with you. It comes on the heels of a new tracking poll showing Hillary doing better than Sen. Obama against John McCain - as well as public polls that show Hillary stronger against Sen. McCain in crucial swing states like Florida, Pennsylvania and Ohio. As Hillary has said, all Democrats (and all Americans) should be proud of the historic campaign Democrats have run this cycle and of our great candidates. But no matter who we support, as Dems we can all agree that winning in November and taking back the White House is our imperative. And one thing is increasingly obvious: winning means defeating John McCain - the likely Republican nominee. The Democrat who eventually faces Sen. McCain will require a set of skills and experiences that enables them to: a) compete on a broad playing field; b) confront and beat back a GOP attack machine waiting to tear them down; c) put forth and defend core Democratic ideas - and ideals - such as universal health care; d) build a solid coalition for victory; e) and importantly, stand toe-to-toe with Sen. McCain on national security. Hillary excels on each of these fronts. [On the last point, my blogosphere friends know that I spent most of 2004 in the Kerry-Edwards war room and gained some perspective on how national security - an issue Democrats cannot and will not cede - takes center stage in a general election.] Now before you listen to the audio of the call, I want to add a personal note about Hillary: I joined her team in 2006 and I've come to know a person who is brilliant, thoughtful, disciplined, possesses tremendous inner fortitude and courage, and who has demonstrated a lifelong commitment to core Democratic values. In short, someone who is the most qualified person running to be president. Someone I am extremely proud to work for. And someone I trust to make this world a better and safer place for the child my wife and I are expecting. Now, to the call. Listen to it. It is a series of powerful testimonials from eighteen former admirals, generals, and senior defense officials who support Hillary. They are among nearly 30 general and flag officers who have endorsed Hillary. Whether or not Hillary is your candidate of choice, consider for a moment what these distinguished men and women are saying and why they are saying it. They are aware of the choices, decisions, votes and experience that Hillary brings to the table. And they have come to the same conclusion, a conclusion reached by millions of voters: that Hillary is the Democrat ready to take back the White House and clean up the mess that George W. Bush has left behind. Peter Daou P.S. Here are a few individual transcripts from the call: General Wesley Clark LISTEN She has done her homework on national security and I know from my personal discussions with her and with many other friends that go in and brief her in her role in the Senate Armed Services Committee. She knows the facts, she knows the details, plus she has the big picture. She is a strategic thinker but she has the building blocks of the strategy in her personal knowledge. This is someone that when she is president our military is going to respect very highly, and when our Senior Officers brief her and meet with her they are going be very, very impressed by what she knows and the intelligence that she brings to these problems. Brigadier General John Watkins, Jr. LISTEN As I think about the challenges facing the nation and having been in uniform for almost thirty years, worked with a number of presidents to include the last four, I can t think of a single person those generals included who is better qualified to walk into the Oval Office than Hillary Clinton. I don t make that statement very lightly. She is more qualified, in my view, than her husband Bill was when he entered the office. It is no surprise to me that you would have as many flag officers who serve this country and Secretaries of the Army and Navy who have served this country who would come out and support Hillary. Major General Paul Eaton LISTEN On a personal note, I have a Special Forces Captain son and a Sergeant Paratrooper both in Afghanistan and I find Senator Clinton the perfect choice to be their Commander-in-Chief and to display the loyalty to command our armed forces and to rebuild them after the conflicts in which we are engaged right now. Lieutenant General Claudia Kennedy LISTEN I support her because I trust her. I trust Hillary Clinton because of her judgment and her leadership. I have confidence that she is responsive to the needs of people. I believe that she understands leadership the way we do in the Army and that is that it s about building connections and relationships and establishing guidance and leadership for others. I think she ll rebuild relationships with other countries that have been suffering for the last seven or eight years; those relationships have really been strained beyond anything I would have anticipated. Another part of Hillary Clinton that I think is just tremendous is that she knows our reality. She is in touch with people, she listens to people. She decides what she believes about policy based on what s right, she has integrity, and on what works, so she s practical.

If You Watch One Thing Today: At 9 p.m. EST on MSNBC, Hillary debates Sen. Obama in Cleveland, Ohio. Endorsement Watch: Former Texas Rep. Ken Bentsen endorsed Hillary Army Major General Antonio M. Taguba (ret.) endorsed Hillary Actor, activist, and Lord of the Rings star Sean Astin endorsed Hillary. If You Read One Thing Today: In Texas, the Laredo Morning News endorsed Hillary. She comes to the American people with a great deal of experience and negotiating talent, wiser for her falls but still optimistic about creating a great future for our children and grandchildren. Read more. Previewing Today: Hillary holds a town hall in Lorain, Ohio President Bill Clinton holds multiple early vote events in both Dallas and Forth Worth, Texas Chelsea meets with students at Youngstown State University and Kent State University in Ohio. In Case You Missed It: Yesterday, Hillary delivered a major foreign policy address. Read her remarks. Active in Ohio: Today, volunteers will show their support for Hillary on over 100 street corners across the state Former U.S. Ambassador to Israel Martin Indyk campaigns for Hillary in Bexley Yesterday, a dozen Cleveland area officials and community leaders endorsed Hillary The campaign announced the formation of its statewide Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual and Transgender (LGBT) Steering Committee. Members will host a debate watch party tonight, phone bank on Thursday, and canvass on Saturday. If You Listen to One Thing Today: The campaign announced a new Latino campaign theme song. Written and performed by Walter Suhr and the Mango Punch, the song is introduced by famed Tejano musician Johnny Canales. Listen.

New Ads: The campaign launched new ads. On television, "Deserves" asks why Sen. Obama won’t debate in Wisconsin, where "Rebuild" and Rep. "Tammy Baldwin" also began airing on television and radio, respectively. In Rhode Island, the campaign began running "Warned" and "Lifetime." Watch and listen. Previewing Today: Hillary attends a campaign event at the Brat Stop in Kenosha followed by the Democratic Party of Wisconsin Founder’s Day Dinner in Milwaukee, Wisconsin… President Bill Clinton holds "Solutions for America’s Economy" events in Amarillo, Lubbock and Austin, Texas… Chelsea campaigns for her mom in Hawaii. If You Listen to One Thing Today: At 11:30 a.m. EST, Hillary advisor Harold Ickes holds a conference call with press to discuss the delegate process. Fair Credit: In Ohio, Hillary detailed her plan to take on the credit card companies and provide fair credit to America’s families. Hillary will end hidden credit card fees and provide real consumer protections against abusive interest rates and sudden rate hikes. Read more. By the Numbers: In Texas, a new Rasmussen poll has Hillary up by 16 points over Sen. Obama (54-38)… In Ohio, a new Rasmussen poll has Hillary up by 14 points over Sen. Obama (51-37). Real Solutions: Congress this week passed and sent President George Bush the Kids and Cars Safety Act, legislation Hillary co-authored with campaign supporter Rep. John Dingell to protect children from injury in and around motor vehicles. Read more. Recapping Yesterday: In Cincinnati, Ohio, Hillary held an economic roundtable before a "jam-packed, standing-room-only crowd at Skyline Chili," where she ordered two cheese coneys… In Akron at a Lockheed-Martin plant, "many of the workers were eager to meet" Hillary. "As she walked through the work floor, Hillary stopped to autograph a teddy bear in the arms of an employee who wanted to surprise his wife." … In Cuyahoga Falls, Hillary "was greeted by a boisterous crowd." When Hillary spoke about universal health care, "one of her supporters yelled out, ‘Yes, we can!’ Sensing an opportunity, Clinton quickly retorted: ‘Yes, we will!’" … In Lyndhurst, "Clinton brought that slogan to a packed rally of about 3,000." Hillary "led the mostly young and boisterous crowd into chanting: "Yes, we will! Yes, we will! Yes, we will!’" Strong in the States: In Wisconsin, the campaign announced the names of 23 new endorsers including State Treasurer Dawn Marie Sass, State Senators Tim Carpenter, Jeff Plale and Jim Sullivan and the first woman mayor of Wausau, Linda Lawrence… In Texas, State Senator Leticia Van de Putte and a long list of Rio Grande Valley elected officials endorsed Hillary. In Case You Missed It: “House Majority Leader Jim Clyburn… disagrees with (superdelegates) who base their support on election and caucus results.” Read more. If You Watch One Thing Today: NBC explores Sen. Obama's ties to nuclear giant Exelon. Watch. FactCheck: The newspaper Sen. Obama cites in continuing to misrepresent Hillary’s record on trade wrote that "Obama's use of the citation does strike us as misleading….It's an example of the kind of slim reeds campaigns use to try to win an office." Read more.

New Ads: The campaign launched new ads. On television, "Deserves" asks why Sen. Obama won’t debate in Wisconsin, where "Rebuild" and Rep. "Tammy Baldwin" also began airing on television and radio, respectively. In Rhode Island, the campaign began running "Warned" and "Lifetime." Watch and listen. Previewing Today: Hillary attends a campaign event at the Brat Stop in Kenosha followed by the Democratic Party of Wisconsin Founder’s Day Dinner in Milwaukee, Wisconsin… President Bill Clinton holds "Solutions for America’s Economy" events in Amarillo, Lubbock and Austin, Texas… Chelsea campaigns for her mom in Hawaii. If You Listen to One Thing Today: At 11:30 a.m. EST, Hillary advisor Harold Ickes holds a conference call with press to discuss the delegate process. Fair Credit: In Ohio, Hillary detailed her plan to take on the credit card companies and provide fair credit to America’s families. Hillary will end hidden credit card fees and provide real consumer protections against abusive interest rates and sudden rate hikes. Read more. By the Numbers: In Texas, a new Rasmussen poll has Hillary up by 16 points over Sen. Obama (54-38)… In Ohio, a new Rasmussen poll has Hillary up by 14 points over Sen. Obama (51-37). Real Solutions: Congress this week passed and sent President George Bush the Kids and Cars Safety Act, legislation Hillary co-authored with campaign supporter Rep. John Dingell to protect children from injury in and around motor vehicles. Read more. Recapping Yesterday: In Cincinnati, Ohio, Hillary held an economic roundtable before a "jam-packed, standing-room-only crowd at Skyline Chili," where she ordered two cheese coneys… In Akron at a Lockheed-Martin plant, "many of the workers were eager to meet" Hillary. "As she walked through the work floor, Hillary stopped to autograph a teddy bear in the arms of an employee who wanted to surprise his wife." … In Cuyahoga Falls, Hillary "was greeted by a boisterous crowd." When Hillary spoke about universal health care, "one of her supporters yelled out, ‘Yes, we can!’ Sensing an opportunity, Clinton quickly retorted: ‘Yes, we will!’" … In Lyndhurst, "Clinton brought that slogan to a packed rally of about 3,000." Hillary "led the mostly young and boisterous crowd into chanting: "Yes, we will! Yes, we will! Yes, we will!’" Strong in the States: In Wisconsin, the campaign announced the names of 23 new endorsers including State Treasurer Dawn Marie Sass, State Senators Tim Carpenter, Jeff Plale and Jim Sullivan and the first woman mayor of Wausau, Linda Lawrence… In Texas, State Senator Leticia Van de Putte and a long list of Rio Grande Valley elected officials endorsed Hillary. In Case You Missed It: “House Majority Leader Jim Clyburn… disagrees with (superdelegates) who base their support on election and caucus results.” Read more. If You Watch One Thing Today: NBC explores Sen. Obama's ties to nuclear giant Exelon. Watch. FactCheck: The newspaper Sen. Obama cites in continuing to misrepresent Hillary’s record on trade wrote that "Obama's use of the citation does strike us as misleading….It's an example of the kind of slim reeds campaigns use to try to win an office." Read more.

If You Read One Thing Today: “Families in Maine and across the country need more than tax rebates to address their economic problems. Part of the solution must be comprehensive, immediate action to end the home heating crisis,” writes Hillary in an op-ed in the Bangor Daily News. Read more. New Ads: In Maryland and Virginia, the campaign began airing new tv ads, “Free Fall” and “Can Do.” Watch... In Maryland and Virginia, the campaign also began airing new radio ads, “My Girl” and “Experience.” Listen here and here. Previewing Today: Hillary will hold “Solutions for America” town halls in Orono and Lewiston, Maine and speak at the state Democratic Party’s Jefferson-Jackson dinner in Richmond, Virginia… President Bill Clinton will hold “Solutions for America” events in Chesapeake, Richmond, Abingdon and Blacksburg, Virginia. Save the Date: On Monday from 7-7:30 p.m. EST, Hillary will appear live on ABC7 and News Channel 8 in the Washington, DC metropolitan area. Sen. Obama refused the invitation to join Hillary and participate in a one-on-one debate sponsored by The Politico and ABC7. Voters nationwide can see Hillary live on Politico.com. 73 Delegates: “Clinton will get 73 pledged delegates after winning 55 percent of the statewide vote, the Michigan Democratic Party said.” Read more. Standing Up for Hillary: In Nebraska, former Sen. Bob Kerrey will greet caucus-goers at two caucus sites in Omaha… In Maryland, Gov. Martin O'Malley will kick-off a canvass in Baltimore… In Texas, Reps. Sheila Jackson Lee and Gene Green and State Sen. Mario Gallegos will hold a press conference in Houston. Recapping Yesterday: In Tacoma, Washington, “about 6,000 people jammed into a basketball arena to hear Hillary call for universal health care.” In Spokane, “fire marshals turned away hundreds and a nearby Girl Scouts hall opened for the overflow” from Hillary’s town hall… President Bill Clinton “characterized Hillary as a tireless champion for storm-battered Louisiana” in New Orleans, Baton Rouge, Lafayette, Lake Charles and Monroe. No, We Can’t? Yesterday in Tacoma, Washington, Hillary explained that when it comes to universal health care, Sen. Obama continues to say “no, we can’t.” Experts estimate that while Hillary’s plan will provide affordable health care to every American, Sen. Obama’s plan will leave 15 million people uninsured. Read more.

As Hillary likes to say, if you want to get things done, you have to know when to stand your ground, and when to find common ground. When she learned that some members of the National Guard and Reserve didn't have health insurance, she reached across the aisle and worked for three years with Senator Lindsey Graham, a Republican, to change that. Now every member of the Guard and Reserve has access to the health coverage s/he needs. Today Hillary is highlighting her record of bipartisanship. She started her two-day bus tour of New Hampshire at Carter Hill Orchard Country Store in Concord. She was introduced by Steve Walter from Londonderry, and Jeff Volk, a former Bush supporter who now supports Hillary as a result of her quick action when he and his family were caught in the path of Hurricane Katrina. Steve Walter is a registered Republican who voted for President Bush in 2000, but he now supports Hillary. His son, Alex, has diabetes, and Steve believes stem cell therapy could help Alex, who has developed scar tissue under his stomach and triceps and is susceptible to blindness, nerve damage and stroke, all of which are side effects of diabetes. Steve is featured in a new radio ad for Senator Clinton that starts today - you can listen here. After her event in Concord, Hillary got on the "Working for Change, Working for You" bus and headed out to Portsmouth, where she will stop by Popovers On The Square with NH Speaker of the House Terie Norelli. Later in the evening, she will hold an event at Cooperative Middle School in Stratham, where she will be joined by Ed Abounader from Rome, NY. When the Defense Department recommended that the base in Rome, NY be shuttered, Senator Clinton successfully fought the proposed closure. Ed is the president of the local American Federation of Government Employees Union in Rome. Check out some of our photos from the Carter Hill Orchard in Concord:

Hillary issued the following statement on World AIDS Day: "Today, on World AIDS Day we are reminded that AIDS is not just an African problem, an Asian problem, or an American problem. It's not someone else's problem. It's a problem of our common humanity, and we are called to respond, with love, with mercy, and with urgency. And though we have made progress on many fronts, there are still 33 million people living with HIV/AIDS around the world, and here in America, HIV infection rates are rising among gay men and African Americans. The disease is taking a disproportionate toll on other communities of color, and it is an outrage that HIV/AIDS is the leading cause of death of black women between the ages of 25 and 34. The time for action and leadership is now. "That is why I have called for a doubling in funding for research for new treatments and a vaccine as well as investments in prevention, education, and access to treatment and other services. I have also proposed to increase funding for the global HIV/AIDS fight to at least $50 billion by 2013. "But neither money nor government alone will solve this problem. We must all work together to care for those who are infected and their families, remove the stigma by showing it's not a sin to be sick, and encourage prevention and promote healthy behaviors. Then and only then will we be able to declare victory for this pandemic." Click here to listen to Hillary speak about the AIDS crisis at Rick Warren's Saddleback Church.

Hillary joins millions of Americans in commemorating Hispanic Heritage Month, which runs from September 15 through October 15. In a special message, Hillary encourages Hispanics to celebrate the month by registering to vote and becoming involved in the democratic process (click here to download the audio of Hillary’s statement): "Hello, I'm Hillary Clinton, and during Hispanic Heritage Month, I join you in celebrating the achievements and contributions that Hispanics make every day to shape our great nation."Latinos are now the largest ethnic group in the United States, and in some states like Nevada, they are the fastest growing part of the population. This is a diverse community that includes families who have been here for centuries, and those who have come to America more recently, looking for freedom, peace and a more prosperous future. "But while the community is diverse, it is united by strong values: faith, family, patriotism and the belief that if you work hard and play by the rules, you can build a better future for your children."These are times of challenge, but also of opportunity for Hispanics in America. To be able to face the challenges ranging from access to health care and quality education to comprehensive immigration reform and ending the war in Iraq, Hispanics must be at the table when decisions are made."Thirty five years ago, I traveled through South Texas, registering Latino voters with help from my friend Raul Yzaguirre. We traveled many miles and knocked on many doors, encouraging people to take that first step to be at the table through the power of their vote. "Today, various coalitions of local and national organizations are stepping up voter registration efforts in the Hispanic community to ensure that your voices are heard. These efforts are creating the opportunity for more Latinos to help put our country on the right path, reclaim the future for our children, and bring back the values of integrity, fairness and tolerance in America."Change is just a word unless you have the strength and experience to make it happen. I’ve spent 35 years of my life fighting to bring change to our country. As president I will be committed to ensuring that every Hispanic family has the opportunities they need to realize their dreams of a better life. "I encourage all Latinos to celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month by getting involved. I hope you will make your voices heard by registering to vote and then helping to bring about the change that America needs."

We wanted to share you with highlights from Hillary’s trip across New Hampshire and Iowa over the Labor Day Weekend with President Clinton.Over the two-day swing, Hillary made clear that she has the strength and experience to deliver the change America needs, and outlined her four big goals: Restoring our leadership in the world; rebuilding our middle class economy for the new global era; reclaiming the future for our children; and bringing back the values of integrity, fairness and tolerance in America. Cedar Rapids Gazette: Clinton Pledges ChangeDemocrat Hillary Clinton promised Monday to change the nation's direction as president by rebuilding the middle class while turning out "the cronies and ending the corruption" that have gripped Washington during the Bush-Cheney years… "I know that real change takes hard work, it takes preparation and it takes a lot of perspiration," she said. "We've got to start focusing on results, not rhetoric; on people, not process; because change is just a word if you don't have the strength and experience to make it happen. To read the full story click here. Radio Iowa: Clintons Focus On Message Of Change"Are you ready for change in America?" Clinton asked the crowd. "Are you ready for universal health care for every single man, woman and child?...Are you ready for a vice president who respects the constitution of the United States of America? Are you ready to end the war in Iraq and bring our young men and women home?"The crowd, about twice as large as the group that stood to listen to Edwards speak, cheered after each of those questions. Clinton then concluded with her campaign theme. "If you're ready for change, I am ready to lead because I have big goals for America," she said. To read the full story click here. Des Moines Register: Clinton: Experience Trumps DoubtsSioux City Democrat Shirley McArdle was leaning toward backing Obama in the caucuses, but was impressed by Clinton, whom she had never seen in person. “She was much better than I expected,” said McArdle, who is undecided. “I like what I heard today. She came across as passionate.” To read the full story click here.NH Union Leader: Clintons Double Team NHEven four months from the first primary, likely voters in the Concord crowd said they considered Clinton to have the race about locked up."Name one person who's going to stop her," said Jeffrey Whooten, a retiree from Goffstown. He said Clinton has the maturity, credibility and leadership to wrest the White House from continued Republican control. To read the full story click here.Concord Monitor: Clintons Team Up On TrailIn a Democratic primary where numerous candidates are describing themselves as the agents of change, Hillary Clinton simultaneously laid her own claim to the "change" mantle and emphasized the importance of political experience. Speaking before a thousands-strong crowd on the State House lawn yesterday morning, Clinton argued that without insight into the workings of Washington, change will prove elusive. "Change is just a word without the strength and experience to make it happen," she said, speaking from a podium decorated with "Change plus Experience" signs. "And I know some people think you have to choose between change and experience. Well, with me, you don't have to choose." To read the full story click here.Foster’s Daily Democrat: Clintons By The SeaMany voters interviewed at the end of Hillary Clinton's half-hour remarks said they came to the event already in her corner. But Barbara Collier, a city resident and magazine copy editor, said she arrived not "definitively" supportive, but left thinking "she's pretty amazing. She speaks so well, she's so clear ... she's hitting all the right buttons," she said.Max Miller of Nashua said he left undecided but "90 percent" ready to commit to Clinton. "She talks about the things that are important to me," especially health care and ending the Iraq war, he said. To read the full story click here. Watch video of Hillary campaigning in New Hampshire here.

Even in a history-making campaign, some days stand out more than others. This is one of them.Today we announced the launch of the very first ad of our campaign. The ad will begin airing tomorrow but we wanted to give you a sneak peak today: This content requires Flash and Javascript turned on. To download the latest Flash player visit http://www.adobe.com/products/flashplayer/. Throughout Iowa and across the country, millions of Americans have been invisible to this president and this government. Millions are in need of help – in need of a president who cares for them. And there is no public servant in America who cares more about the people they represent than Hillary. That is why Christie and I made a commitment in March to help introduce Hillary to Iowans and why I am proud to ask you to take a look at this ad and send it on to your friends and family.This is a big week for the campaign in Iowa, and our first ad is only the beginning.Hillary will be in the state for three days next week, including events in Dubuque, Council Bluffs, and Waukee as well as a stop Wednesday at the State Fair and at Sunday’s ABC News debate at Drake University. We are expanding our outreach in Iowa for one reason. The more Iowans see Hillary Clinton -- her commitment, knowledge, experience, strength, and compassion -- the more they know that she is the candidate who has the experience to bring the change we need. We’ve been building a network of supporters across Iowa with organizing meetings in all of our 99 counties throughout the month and now we are on the air statewide.But change starts with you. It starts in your county, in your precinct, in your neighborhood. Take a look at the ad, forward it to your family, friends, and neighbors and ask them to join Iowans for Hillary.

Musical great Quincy Jones announced his endorsement of Hillary Clinton in a video tribute this afternoon during a luncheon which brought together over 200 African American men who support Hillary Clinton’s candidacy for president. In the video, Mr. Jones speaks eloquently about the depth and longevity of their friendship and his belief in her ability to lead our nation."Hillary Clinton is one of my favorite ladies on this planet who I’ve known for a long, long time and who I believe in and will go to the ends of the earth for… I have known her as a human being and have been around her in every kind of situation … she and I have shared thoughts very intimately, and I’ve always admired and appreciated that … I have always had an honest response from her with anything we’ve ever talked about. I see her for who she is and she has the vision, courage and most importantly she has the experience … we have very few people that can take us to the next level. The one that can take us there in the 21st Century is Hillary!"In addition to Mr. Jones’ video endorsement, supporters heard from other distinguished participants from across the nation, including New York Congressman Charles B. Rangel, Chairman of the House Ways and Means Committee and Dean of the New York State Congressional Delegation; Trenton, New Jersey Mayor Douglas H. Palmer, President of the U.S. Conference of Mayors and co-chair of the Clinton campaign’s Mayors Council; Robert L. Johnson, owner of the NBA Charlotte Bobcats and founder of BET; Bishop Tavis Grant, Pastor of the Greater First Church International in Chicago; South Carolina State Senator Darrell Jackson (District 21); and Attorney Willie E. Gary who also announced his endorsement for Senator Clinton at the lunch."I was truly touched by Quincy’s tribute and endorsement today,” said Hillary. His elegant and thoughtful words are an inspiration to all of us. I have known Quincy for many years and appreciate his friendship and his support for my candidacy."Quincy Jones is an American music impresario, conductor, record producer, musical arranger, film composer and trumpeter. During his five decades in the entertainment industry, Jones has earned more than 70 Grammy Awards, and a Grammy Legend Award in 1991. He is best known as the co-producer of two of the top-selling records of all time: the album Thriller, by pop-icon Michael Jackson, and the charity song "We Are the World".Watch Quincy Jones talk about why he supports Hillary: This content requires Flash and Javascript turned on. To download the latest Flash player visit http://www.adobe.com/products/flashplayer/.

A few weeks ago, Hillary sat down with a number of Iowans in Muscatine to discuss her three step plan to end the war in Iraq. Hillary’s plan includes bringing our troops home safely, working to bring stability to the region, and replacing military force with a new diplomatic initiative to engage countries around the world in securing Iraq's future.Early next week the DVD below will appear in the mailboxes of Iowa Democrats. Can’t wait until next week? We’ve posted the video here today so you can learn more about Hillary’s plan: This content requires Flash and Javascript turned on. To download the latest Flash player visit http://www.adobe.com/products/flashplayer/.

Jon Stewart expressed his disappointment on last night's Daily Show that we never posted his video as part of our campaign song contest on YouTube. Jon, we're so sorry -- we never got it! So without further ado, here's his submission. What do you think? Is it a winner?

This video is from Hillary’s recent trip to NH. I hope you’ll check it out – these mothers, Hillary included, are an inspiration.

Hillary's lead is widening.That's what a new round of polling in the wake of South Carolina's Democratic debate makes clear. These new polls show that voters around the country - and in the key early states in particular - are looking for a candidate with the right experience to lead America. Americans got a chance to see that candidate when Hillary participated in the first debate about two weeks ago in South Carolina. Because the debate was seen by a small audience, it took a while for the full impact of her winning performance to be felt. Clearly, the debate reframed the race – people were looking at who could be the best president, and I think the result is driving a lot of the polls coming out today: America saw that Hillary is ready to lead. NATIONAL USA Today/Gallup (May 4-6)This poll shows Hillary with a 15 point lead over Obama: Hillary 38, Obama 23. Hillary is the only candidate whose numbers improved after the debate. She is up 7 points from a survey taken three weeks earlier and Obama is 3 points lower than before.CNN (May 4-6)Hillary 38, Obama 24, Gore 12, Edwards 12- Since CNN’s pre-debate poll on April 12 Hillary’s lead has gone from 4 to 14: Hillary has gone up 8, Obama has gone down 2, Gore has gone down 3, and Edwards has remained steady.Hillary 41, Obama 27, Edwards 14- In this horserace without Gore, Hillary’s lead has gone from 8 to 14 since the April 12 pre-debate poll.Quinnipiac (April 25-May 1)Hillary 32, Obama 18, Gore 14, Edwards 12 STATES New Hampshire: ARG (April 26-29)Hillary 37, Edwards 26, Obama 14 New Hampshire: Survey USA (May 4-6)Hillary 40, Obama 24, Edwards 22 South Carolina: ARG (April 27-30)Hillary 36, Obama 24, Edwards 18 New Jersey: Strategic Vision (April 25-27)Hillary 40, Obama 23, Edwards 12 Nevada: Mason Dixon (April 30-May 1)Hillary 37, Edwards 13, Obama 12 Alabama: InsiderAdvantage/Majority Opinion (April 30-May1)Hillary 40, Obama 19, Edwards 18 And I won’t generally report the Rasmussen polls since they are IVR but some journalists made a big deal of their poll showing it having closed and today reversed the trend to have her up 8.Rasmussen (April 30-May 3)Hillary 34, Obama 26, Edwards 16- The latest Rasmussen shows the same trend as CNN: Hillary has gained 4 points and now leads by 8, Obama has lost 6 points, and Edwards has lost a point. UPDATE: More data has come out underscoring the trend I highlighted above. USAToday/Gallup (May 4-6)Today USA Today/Gallup released data for the ballot question without Al Gore: Hillary 45, Obama 27, Edwards 14- On this ballot as well Hillary is the only candidate whose numbers improved after the debate. She is up 8 points from a survey taken three weeks earlier, expanding her lead from 8 to 18 points. Obama has dropped 2 points and Edwards is down 5 points.WNBC/Marist (April 26-May 1)Hillary 35, Obama 17, Edwards 15, Gore 9- This is yet another poll conducted after the debate showing Hillary with a strong lead.