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Obama Scoffs That Clinton, With 47 Percent Disapproval Rating, Says He Can't Get Elected

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December 21, 2007 8:35 AM

ABC's Sunlen Miller Reports: Barack Obama jabbed at Hillary Clinton (without naming her) over who is more electable, scoffing that the argument is being made by someone with a 47 percent disapproval rating.

Obama told supporters in Portsmouth, N.H., "For whatever reason I keep on defying this notion that somehow the American people are not ready for me."

He said it's an argument being put out by unnamed people who sound an awful lot like Bill and Hillary Clinton.

That argument, he said, is "just is not borne out. And right now among all Democratic nominees or Democratic candidates I do better in a general election match-ups than the other candidates.

"And this argument is being pushed by the way by a candidate who starts off with a 47% disapproval rating," Obama continued. "You know, so, I’m not going to mention names but I mean the notion that a viability or an electability argument is being made by somebody who starts off with almost half the country not being able to vote for (pause and laughter) them doesn’t make sense."

"But you know in the end, don’t vote your fears. I’m stealing this line from my buddy (Massachusetts Gov.) Deval Patrick who stole a whole bunch of lines from me when he ran for the governorship, but it’s the right one, don’t vote your fears, vote your aspirations. Vote what you believe."

December 21, 2007 in Clinton, Hillary, Obama, Barack, Vote 2008: Democrats | Permalink | User Comments (31)

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Obama please! Get over it. Your are not ready to lead this country. There's no way you'd be elected in the General election. Many of your supporters now will do nothing but turn there backs on you next November. Step back and let a real professional show you how it's done. GO HILLARY! HILLARY O8!!

Posted by: Neal | Dec 21, 2007 12:07:50 PM

America doesnt want a "professional" politician who is great at talking herself up but accomplishes nothing.

Posted by: Rainee | Dec 21, 2007 12:27:42 PM

Disclaimer I am an Obama supporter, but after having said that could the article in the link below be true about Hillary? If so shouldn't the MSM be running with this? This could be huge...

Posted by: Freddie | Dec 21, 2007 1:46:26 PM

Thank goodness Obama has finally made this case. It's absolutely true. Even if you don't support Obama, the fact is he not only inspires the Democrats to vote for him, but most Independents and many Republicans; indeed this is one of Obama's formidable and exceptional strengths. He is more well positioned than any other candidate, save maybe for John McCain to actually lead the whole country and not just eek out a divisive victory.

Posted by: Robert | Dec 21, 2007 3:02:09 PM

Obama...who do you think you are fooling? I thought your people didn't look at polls. He is such a fraud. And since you are looking at polls, what is your state by state outlook? Not so good. Thought that would shut you up. Keep talking and you will your negatives start to rise.

Posted by: Tony | Dec 21, 2007 3:06:20 PM

Finally somebody is telling the truth about the Clintons. I am so sick and tired of Hillary and Bill on the stump trying to tell us the voters that she is best to lead us. I would respect her more if she would just tell the truth and stop playing dirty politics. We the voters see right thru it..

Posted by: Dan | Dec 21, 2007 3:56:46 PM

I love all the critics posting here who are bought and paid for by the Hillary campaign.

From childhood, I thought there was nothing I wanted to see more than a woman President of this country. Now that I'm 30 years older (and wiser), I would rather vote for someone who says what (s)he thinks and is forthright and sincere.

A bunch of people are crowing about all Hillary's political "experience" as if what the Clintons did while in office is something to be proud of. Selling out to China and the telecommunications industry while reducing the size of our military had a combined domino effect of weakening our economy (notice the falling value of the dollar) and making us look like sitting ducks to extremists in the Middle East.

I'm ready for a President with a fresh approach, one who listens, one who cares. After reading about his life, I know Obama is that candidate and there is no doubt in my mind he has what it takes to turn this country around.

Thank you all very much.

Posted by: Valerie K. | Dec 21, 2007 7:35:08 PM

It is shear ignorance among Democrats to not realize that voting for Hillary is a vote to continue with a Republican President.

The polls of all voters clearly show that Barack is much, much more electable in November than Hillary. Independents support Barack by 2-1 over Hillary and she energizes the Republican base.

Barack would bring out more young people and minorities to support him, than any Democrat in History. Hillary is the most polarizing, divisive person in modern politics. She admits that the Republicans are the enemy and she has battle scars to prove it. Barack wants to bring America together, and he has a record to prove it.

Poll after poll for the General Election show Barack defeats Republicans much easier than Hillary. In fact, the only Republican Hillary might defeat would be Huckabee (he probably won't win), but it would be a brutal campaign that would tear apart our country on religious lines. Obama defeats Huckabee most easily. I can cite actual polls for those Democrats who are ignorant of the facts. Wake up Democrats.

Posted by: Jerry25 | Dec 22, 2007 5:51:02 AM

Are you kidding me?!??!!?! the republicans are scared outta their mind right now seeing obama rising in the polls. going against hillary is their best chance at winning this thing...trust me. unlike bill, hillary just isn't very likable. the republicans hate her, half the democrats hate her, so how is that going to change? being seen with magic johnson and giving out x-mas presents aint gonna cut it. the last thing we need is another president that is supported by only half the country (or less). obama is not just likable, he is LOVABLE...once people get to know him EVERYONE will come to LOVE OBAMA. i know it's not everyone but for sure enough to win BIG in november...look at the head to head polls, he has the widest projected margin of victory against the top republicans and not everyone knows yet...how can you guys say he'll get eaten alive by the "republican machine". you're kidding right?? donald duck can run as a democrat and win this time. listen up Democrats, Independents, Republicans, non-voters, EVERYONE: it's OBAMA or BUST. our country's future is at stake, i don't wanna sound very dramatic, because anyone will do a better job than bush, but we need someone that will be do a much, much better job. WE CAN do this together, vote and organize groups to go vote, that's what it's gonna take and spread the message of change towards UNITY..it's the only way to change, united we stand divided we fall...

Posted by: Gome | Dec 22, 2007 5:52:51 AM

To say that I'm happy that Obama said this, would be an understatement

I'm excited, over-joyed, I'm .... I'm lacking words.

No political machine could ever make this conservative spport Ms. Clinton. So here we have two candidates: One that I will vote FOR and one that I will vote AGAINST.

It's a clear choice for Democrats.

Posted by: Diamond | Dec 22, 2007 6:59:01 AM

I am so ready for Barack Obama to be our next president! The Clinton campaign is continuing to cause so much devisiveness. Obama is bringing us a fresh, creative, knowledgeable spirit that will infuse our country with a new direction. OBAMA 08/12!

Posted by: Meri | Dec 22, 2007 7:32:07 AM

I'm glad Sen.Obama fought back, he doesn't do it often with a lot of words. Because he is wise, and of less word, can be heard better.
He's intelligent, inspirational, bold, and wise... Think about this... He graduated Harvard Law school on top of his class, only to take a Community Organizer job for $12,000 a year to help people in Chicago... Only 3 years ago he and Michelle finished paying off their student loans. As of right now, Obamas only have a net worth of 1.3 millions that's mostly because of his best two sellers. Yet people are criticizing him of his character. Compared to Hilary who takes corporate money and tells us that she's fighting for our interests? C'mon wake up people!!!!

GO OBAMAS!!!!!

Posted by: Jing | Dec 22, 2007 10:04:01 AM

Hillary, please. Exactly what facts are you basing your statement on?

You're the one 50% of the American people said they would never vote for (myself included).

It's time for you and Bill to go away. Just go away, please.

Posted by: ItsTimeToTurnThePage | Dec 22, 2007 12:09:48 PM

I am one voter that will vote republican if Hillary is the nominee. I would rather have 8 more years of a really bad president then to lose our democracy to this media controlling hyper control freak and her husband. the Clintons had their turn, time to let it go. Obama has intellect, integrity, values, priorities, morals and the correct experience and interracial and generational experience to bring about chnage. "Amerca - our moment is now!"

Posted by: Tom | Dec 22, 2007 4:49:24 PM


More wisdom and Power for all of us.

Posted by: Phil Quintos | Dec 22, 2007 9:39:43 PM

I too would rather vote for a Republican than Hillary (and Bill Clinton). I think he is foaming at the mouth thinking that he will be in the White House again. I don't think I could stand that again. Let's get rid of the deadwood and bring someone with new ideas like Obama or Edwards. Please Hillary----with your disapproval rating how will you bring this country together?

Posted by: Lena | Dec 23, 2007 1:06:24 AM

Obama has ALL the answers. He must have refined that act while snorting or selling dope on the streets. In reality he is nothing but a racist and empty suit. Maybe he should be Opra's headmaster at her school in Africa if he is soooo smart.

Posted by: Jack Lane | Dec 23, 2007 3:02:12 PM

It is the Faceless Faction of bi-partisan abusers of American government, the deep pockets, who least like Obama. Why?

Because they aren't sure how to grease his palms to do what they want! Could it be that (--gasp!--) they can't??

That's why America needs Obama for President in '08!

Posted by: Valerie K. | Dec 25, 2007 3:23:22 AM

Let's not get crazy. We have to think about the Supreme Court Justices. We can't have 3 more conservatives placed on the bench by another uptight republican. If.. and only if Hillary wins the democratic primary, will I vote for her....

Posted by: Ajay | Feb 12, 2008 9:00:50 PM

From the party that brought us Michael Dukakis, Walter Mondale and John "We're going to fight a smarter war" Kerry, we present:
Hillary Clinton
This is the stupidest possible choice for the Democrats, both in terms of electability and anything but status quo happening in Washinton - so I'm confident they'll nominate her. Perhaps Americans will finally wise up to these people, but I'm not optimistic.

Posted by: steve evfuture | Feb 18, 2008 9:45:22 PM

What I find fascinating is that the same press corps ("liberals" included) who wanted Clinton impeached and made sure neither "Pastel-colors Bore" nor "Flip-flop Botox Kerry" didn't get elected is now, of course, making sure Hillary is not elected either.

Well, Mr. Obama & Co., yes *they* can and will do it again. And this time you'll be the enabler. How sad...

Posted by: sfgirl | Feb 18, 2008 10:52:01 PM

I for one am a solid Democrat that will NOT vote for a candidate without the experience to do a job. I will absolutley vote for a Republican for the first time in a Presidential election rather than vote for Barack Obama. He could not even muster the testosterone to vote YES or NO on so many votes in the Illinois legislature!! You people are buying into a dude that knows how to read a teleprompter. That's it.

Posted by: Nick | Feb 19, 2008 12:27:34 AM

After a long time, Democrats have the chance to vote for a self-made man of decency and integrity such as Barack Obama.
That is why he is running so well against Hillary, who is getting desperate. Experience is overrated! Cheney and Rumsfeld had the most experience, yet they authored the disastrous Iraq war.

Posted by: Nora | Feb 19, 2008 12:47:31 AM

Hillary's favorite words: me, my and I

She doesn't remember the words "we" or "you" until she watches Obama speeches and starts plagiarizing as soon as she can find a teleprompter. She is sad to watch: great ideals wrapped in terrible ethics and lots of entitlement.

If she manages the country like she has her campaign, we all are in trouble. She never takes responsibility for any of her mistakes: an imperious failed healthcare initiative that sank a Democratic congress, a well funded Presidential campaign that only recently learned it was running out of money, etc.

Posted by: Joe | Feb 19, 2008 3:15:14 AM

Real Clear Politics has great polls from multiple sources and they ALL show Clinton can't beat McCain -- while McCain loses to Obama by double digits in all but two states Fla. and AZ. It's a moot point though, mathematically Clinton can't come close to beating Obama. Add to that Obama is going to upset the Clintons in Texas and Ohio. It's over for Clintons. You can only lie, cheat and steal so long before it catches up with you. America is ready for a real leader. Clinton can't even lead her own dwindling campaign... Obama is a genuine leader who doesn't search for consensus, he shapes consensus -- to borrow a quote from Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.

Posted by: Nate | Feb 19, 2008 6:02:40 AM

Obama has it right. As a Democrat I hate the fact that Republicans 16 years ago decided to demonize Hillary, and were successful in doing so. But it is what it is, and at best she can eak out a victory against McCain. Obama has the potential to give him a drubbing, which will bring a mandate to undo much of the damage of the last 14 years.

Posted by: John Dillinger | Feb 19, 2008 9:14:07 AM

Hillary has had enough time in the White House! I can see her losing to McCain (Bush light) because despite the fact that Ann Coulter said she'd vote for Hillary - she will come to her senses and support McCain. Hillary will unite all the conservative wrath that has been building up over the years.

Go Obama-rama-drama!

Posted by: Robert Creasey | Feb 19, 2008 11:14:00 AM

I voted for Bill Clinton twice. He was an Obama of his time (40 something). He had fresh ideas, passion, and enthusiasm. He damaged his second term with irresponsiblity and selfishness. Now they throw things at Obama that are ridiculus and insult me as a voter. He will be a disaster in the White House carrying on side discourses/deals with business leaders and politcos of other countries. Bill is more effective in the private sector. The Clintons carry too much poltical baggage and are tainted by past actions and behavior. I am so happy to vote Obama and contribute to a soulful man, wife, and family. He has the moral authority to make potentially difficult descisons that may confront the next president with regards to war and peace. If I cannot vote for Obama, I will vote for McCain. The consequences of a Clinton White House carries too much unpredictablility and a huge lack of coherency, respect, and based on past actions and the current campiagn . . . trust.

Posted by: Jeromeu | Feb 19, 2008 2:19:15 PM

The chorus of cynics is growing louder...but we expect that.

Posted by: Larry from Purdue | Feb 19, 2008 4:29:39 PM

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

Posted by: BobGil | Mar 6, 2008 12:35:53 PM

siga iam ready for president with afresh approach listen up guys even if you had said that obama can be head director of opra,s school in africa.First all iam real white with blue eyes and my family knows how to count 2.5 millions dollars ayear i still want to vote support him, his genius,interlectual,if ther is something more than president.iz the one who deserveit.

Posted by: siga | Jun 5, 2008 3:44:46 PM

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