Jack, my first response is Senator Clinton. But I don’t think either candidate has a greater chance. The republicans will unite regardless. They don’t want a democrat for president any more than the democrats want a republican.

Definitely, Hillary Clinton. The Republicans have a whole staff that has been working for years on the Clinton attack. They have lots of material. I don’t want to see it. The Republican base is not excited about McCain, but they’ll get very excited about Hillary.

Nothing will bring the Republicans together more solidly than Hillary. I’m surprised John McCain isn’t out campaigning for her.

It doesn’t matter who the Democrats nominate; the 70% of the country that is against our ridiculous foreign policy will rally behind them rather than “100-years” McCain. The minute the Republicans started trying to see who could out-Bush each other on Iraq, they set themselves up for failure.

this is kind of a daffy question because it’s obviously Hillary. hell, Jack, just listen to the right wingnuts and they are chomping at the bit to run against Hillary because that is probably the ONLY way their “base” will turn out in November. the only candidate they hate more than McCain is either of the Clintons

Senator Obama will unite the Republicans because there is a strong feeling that they can easily beat him in an election. Republicans are not likely to be as soft on Senator Obama as Democrats have been to date. Republicans have been very effective at raising doubts about Democrats - remember Kerry, Dukakis, Harold Ford - and there will be more doubts about Senator Obama than Senator Clinton. Besides, Senator Clinton has beaten back the best the Republicans have to offer, they can’t do any more damage to her.

Jack, is this a loaded question? I’m not sure the party is divided, we just have a decsion to make on who best represents our values and direction. Whoever that person is, the party will stand united. Of course it would be easier to unite behind the candidate that represents a fresh idea for that process but I’m not going to be so partisan as to suggest that would be Barak Obama.

The GOP is chomping at the bit to get at Hillary. The swiftboat types will make what they did to John Kerry look like a picnic. They will come after her with both barrels. They don’t quite know what to make of Obama which is only one reason he gets my vote.

Hillary does. Look at what she’s accomplished and what Obama has - she’s done more. She has walked the walked and not just talked the talk. Our country is a mess. We are not in the position to take a chance, not right now. Besides, Obama keeps talking about this being the past vs. the future. Why then does he continue to talk about that Iraq vote? He’s contradicting himself. I’m more worried about the economy and my financial future. “If” he goes up against McCain he’s going to try to make Iraq the issue. That’s not what’s most important to most Americans right now. If Hillary goes up against McCain Iraq won’t be in the forefront. I believe Obama to be a good man who’s brilliant, however he’s not the right candidate for the mess we’re in right now.

Hillary will bring every Republican who can walk we all know that. More important it will dampen the glo that is going on, many less, especially the young, will not vote. This vote of young people could actually happen if the person that got them so involved & excited won this primary, hope this is something everyone will think about, it could make the differance. Vote future, NOT the past!

definitely Barack Obama. I really liked it when he said in one of his speeches that there is only ONE United States of America….NOT a blue and a red America, or a Liberal and Conservative America. I also think he is much more likable than Hillary, although I really don’t mind her myself! My vote goes to Barack.

For sure, it would be Hillary! The number of Republicans (conservatives) out in America who “hate’ Hillary is astounding.They will all get off their butts to march to the gates of hell, my friends, to stop Hillary in her tracks, I have no doubt.

there is always “poison” in any political campaign and i think most thinking americans are tired of it! the worst possible november scenario is clinton/romney!

The Republicans feel the same way about Clinton as the Democrats feel about Bush. You see the turn out of Democrats for this election double the Republicans in many elections. If Hillary is the Democrats choice you will see the Republicans turning out in record numbers.

I believe Hillary is the better qualified candidate, but with all of the luggage she brings in, I believe the damage Tom DeLay and the rest of the GOP machine have done to her will be what they are banking on to win in November. I’m afraid, too that Barak Obama will unite them as well. I can see Karl Rovean style dirty tricks and campaigning, which means the race card will rear its ugly head. A shame that issues can’t dominate the Election of 2008.

John Edwards would have. Too bad he dropped out. Maybe he will get tapped for V.P. and not be evil like his predecessor.

Jack,
They both are lighting rods for the Republican Party. Hillary will draw them to the poles because they hate the Clinton family or they will trun out in record numbers in order to prevent Obama from winning the Presidentcy because of his race. This is how Republicans’ think , they don’t want change… They want more of President “Evil Doer” Bush…

Hillary would be first place of course, but Obama would be next, no matter who is the Democratic Nominee, first place will be a target of Republicans, no matter what, Republicans will unite around hating who ever is the Democratic candidate.

And here’s a point, lost on Media, in general, Hillary will hate as good as she gets, this a main reason for my not supporting candidacy and in turn supporting Obama, he will not be immune, but he will show America the way and his efforts will be costly, but needed for the course change America and the World, so desperately needs.

Jack,

While you make some good points with regard to conservative distaste for Hillary Clinton, and the fact that John McCain likes to boast of the conservative endorsements he has received, it would be wise to remember this.

Conservatives such as Rush Limbaugh with his millions of listeners following his lead in lock step, has been lambasting John McCain for his lack of conservative values, so much so that he, Limbaugh, will lose all credibility if he flip flops to support McCain in the general election.

Furthermore, no one more conservative than Ann Coulter has indicated that she might have to vote for Hillary Clinton if McCain is the GOP standard bearer.

While Obama may well be the stronger unifying force for the Democrats, Hillary Clinton will be a far less polarizing figure than what seems to be conventional wisdom.

The animosity in the Republican party for John McCain will certainly insure that a Democrat, any Democrat, will be taking the oath of office next January.

Robert
North Port, FL

What state could Hillary likely win that Gore and Kerry didn’t?

Obama could potentially put a dent in the Republican hold of the southern states. After the hatched job the Clinton’s attempted in South Carolina, Hillary is likely to not only unite republicans but suppress the democratic vote in those states.

The left over resentment remains long after the Clintons departed, and even more to date. The mere fact of mentioning the Clintons is enough to “unite” the dead, understanding that if you elect one, you get the second for “free.” Hilliary definitively presents the greater chance of uniting the Republican, especially, if the Republicans still posses the inability to unite themselves. You might say it is the C2 effect, self-uniting factor. Of course Obama might even do more; he is youthful; a visionary; a mover and shaker promoting change from the old guard politicis; but Hilliary has the advantage.

With Hillary in the White House it will be “it’s my way or the highway” whether democrat or republican because she has too much baggage. Barack Obama doesn’t have the baggage and is more approachable to republicans and democrats.

Hillary will by far be the most hated and defining candidate for the republicans. The republican party is controlled by neocons and right wing religious nutcases who are full of extreme hatred of anyone or anything they don’t like. They are all extremely disgusting as they are not followers of God,Jesus or the Bible. My God and his son taught love,tolerance and forgiveness of our enemies. The republicans are becoming too much like the Taliban and other muslim extremists.

Mr Cafferty.

.Hillary Clinton will unite rebublicans. One of the biggest reasons being, the republicans are salvating at the thought of going up against her. They have been gearing up for this, for years. And I know so many Hillary supporters are saying shes been there before, she knows how to fight them and win. But to me thats the the whole piont. Yes, maybe she will win. But why on earth would we as democrats nominate someone that has to fight off years of controversy and questionable practices that she and her husband have been involved in. And if she were to win, how many more enemys will she have created in the process. And in the end will that give us the kind of bipartisan Leadership that this country desperately needs right now. I know any democrat that we nominate is going to be given a hard time by the republicans. But Im absolutely convinced that Obama has much firmer ground to stand on.
In point, This is the message voters need to be getting.

I don’t know about unifying the republicans against her, but I’m sure that Hilary would give the Republican’s a lot more to work with. Her vote for the War would be my outmost concern. McCain would tear her apart for this decsion. She supported the start of the war that his campaign is about continuing. Doesn’t look good on her… Barack is a better contrast to McCain, and at least with my republican peers, Barack Obama is the Democrat they fear most.

Jack,

It’s simple, BOTH.
A Obama-Cinton ticket in November will unite the Republican Party.

THEY WILL JUST GIVE UP!

It doesn’t matter, either candidate will be used to unite the Republicans. The Republicans will say all the old distorted comments about Hillary and many new ones as well, but they will say equally distorted and hateful comments about Barak. It doesn’t make any difference if it’s a woman, or a black man, or even if it is a white man; look what they did to Kerry last time. The Democratic candidate will be labelled as; weak on defense, trying to destroy the sanctity of marrage, in favor of killing babies, wanting to take your guns away, will lift up the spirits of Al-Queda and the Taliban, will cause massive terrorist strikes against the U.S.,and will raise your taxes to unbearable limits. No Jack, it doesn’t matter who the democratic candidate is; he or she will be acused of destroying everything this God fearing country stands for. After all, “The ends justify the means”.

HILLARY without a doubt:

I think either Obama, or Clinton will unite the Republican Party, as if they needed uniting. The Republicans will line up at the polls on election day, and walk in lock step to the voting booths, and vote straight Republican tickets. When I first started watching politics about 50 years ago, that was the way it was, and it has not changes in that 50 years.

Hillary says she can take on the Republicans. Barack says he can win yhem over. I believe both of them, but it doesn’t take a genius to know that it’s easier to attract flies with honey than with vinegar. I’ll bet Barack’s positive message of unity would fair far better in the general election than Hillary’s confrontational antagonism. America is tired of partisan politics and the undue influence of big business and special interests that has plagued the nation for so long–it’s time for a change for the better.

It’s always been Hillary. They can’t wait to see her nominated.

Now if CNN and others had paid proper attention to the best Dem in the race, JOHN EDWARDS, there’d be no question that the Democrats would win in November. Not because he’s a white man, but because he has the best ideas, most integrity and total commitment to making America better for the middle and lower classes. SHAME ON YOU for ignoring him out of the race. (I’m voting for him anyway tomorrow…)

The republicans should have learned from the last election. John Kerry is not president therefore that strategy must not work. If you can’t vote for ‘em might as well vote against ‘em. Where’s the satisfaction in that?

Say, how about that Barack Obama. He’s got those Massachusetts liberals endorsing him and eating out of his hand. He trots out Oprah and changes his accent and cadence to emulate Martin Luther King and the Clintons get blamed for bringing race into the debate. He claims he can unite the country. Didn’t G.W., the uniter not a divider, make the same baseless claim? If you actually believe that Obama would be able to unite the country I’ve got a sweet little used car, it’s been a delight… needs a little work… but I know you’re going to want to give me top dollar for it because, after all, you’re a blithering idiot. Obama will be just as polarizing and devisive as George Bush junior has been, maybe worse.

Jack
Hillary will definately unite the Grand Old Party, however the Republicans will have a tough time getting John McCain in due to the wonderful job George W. Bush has done during the last seven years he has occupied the Oval Office. At this point a good third party canidate could sneak in.

Hillary has so much baggage that Republicans would have a field day trying to figure out what to use first. Barack Obama is the best candidate for the Democrats.

Jack, it doesn’t matter which one can reunite the Republicans, You guys in the media have already picked our next President for us. It seems the only person running on the Dem side is Obama. I have not heard any of you guys say any postive thing about Clinton. I guess this country doesn’t want to get back to where we all had it pretty good. Which was under the Clintons. I think it is time to get over Bill. He did nothing more then any of our former Presidents ( just check your history ) he was just setup by the Republicans. But at least it didn’t hurt this country. So get over it and lets put someone in the White House that will get something good done for this country once again.
Beth

Both Barack and Hillary will unite Republicans. Hillary will unite them against her. Barack will unite Republicans and Democrats to bring about real change from the bickering dead-lock of partisan politics and the undue influence of big business and special interest groups. It’s time to unite the nation behind a leader with the vision to bring about a better world.

Dear cafferty, how many times to we need to hear from both parties regarding the same issues for the past year, for instances health issues, defences, border, tax cuts and etc. The same boring issues. I suggest asking deep issues regarding each states problems and their good ideas for other states to use. The United States is so divided on so many issues, we the people need to ask and require better accountable from the Federal government on spending and the same for each states. That would be one good start, with out control spending at the top of the Federal government and work your way down.

Hillary would unite the Republicans, because their hate of all things Clinton makes them lose their minds,

Doesn’t matter Jack..because either one of them could beat him…he still hasn’t figured out that we want out of Irag…he is a slow learner…he sounds like Bush …and most of the Republicans have even had enough of that.

There is virtually NO event that would galvanize the Republican party more than Hillary Clinton receiving the Democratic Nomination. Moreover, her nomination could potentially remove Obama from the process entirely. THIS would, no doubt, incite African-American and Young Democrats, as well as Independents, to vote Republican - making John McCain our next President of the United States.

Either one is a scary possibility.

Obama would unite the GOP… To stay home.. The tide of change is coming and Obama is just riding the wave..

Dear Jack,

I think Obama would be a stronger opponent for the Republicans. I also feel that even though this country is fed-up with the Bush administration, many folks feel that the lies and corruption are much the same as the Clinton administration. Therefore, if the Republicans want another shot at running this land of ours for another term, they will have to unite, and unite for a completely different direction.
Obama will be the one to create that unity.

Personally, I think that a ticket of Jack Cafferty/Lou Dobbs on the Independent ticket would be the best for this country. The two of you probably know more of what this country needs, than all of the candidates, Republican or Democrat, combined !!!!!!

Gene F.
Rochester, Michigan

Clinton without a doubt. If the democrats want to loss they should vote Clinton.
Obama unites the Democratic Party and engages people. Hillary just wants to be President, it’s a personal goal.

HILLARY, HILLARY, HILLARY…..her baggage has baggage and republicans will delight in reviving the all too sordid, deliciously salacious details of whitewater, travel gate, vince foster, monica lewinsky and the like.

It would be the ultimate uniter for those who have been rubbing their hands in HILLARY anticipation all these years.

Your question is not relevant, it only serves to stir media hype about Clinton vs Barack for your ratings! Those voters that hate Clinton and who will come out to vote Republican because of her are core Republicans, and they will do so regardless who is the Democratic candidate. The relevant question should be how will those moderate and swing voters vote, and their votes depend upon issues, not on personalities or uplifting political rhetoric. Obama will be nailed by McCain in the general election as too inexperienced for the presidency, a tax and spend ultra liberal that is also weak on security and fighting the war on terrorists. His “Change” message is basically a one-issue campaign and will become tiresome by November, for it is only half sided. He does not lay out a road map for change and does not ask for the needed moderation and sacrifice that all parties/individuals must make to allow change to be realized. When will we realize, that it is not change in Washington DC that must ocurr , but change within ourselves that we must be willing to make. Our nation and our society will not have change till we ourselves are willing to sacrifice and moderate various aspects of our own political and social agenda goals and objectives.

Roy
Florida

Jack,
The answer to this question is the obvious one. Hillary Clinton is as divisive as they come. I manage Barack Obama’s campaign at Murray State University in Kentucky, and I hear of more and more Republicans crossing over to support him everyday! It’s not that Hillary isn’t a tried and true Democrat/politician, it’s that Barack Obama is a movement, and you can’t run against that. McCain wouldn’t stand a chance!
-Jordan from Kentucky

I think it’s Obama - because I think the republican will mind more having a black president thank a woma president.

This question isn’t very relevant because the major issue of the Republicans is who will not cause THEIR party to fracture. So, before we address this issue it is probably more prudent to see who the Republicans nominate. Oh, and if I had to answer this question, I would probably say Mike Gravel because he is the only real liberal running.

Dear Jack,

I’ll get right to the point, namely choosing our next President. John Edwards is STILL ON THE BALLOT and votes for him STILL COUNT. Having said that, this Edwards supporter is not voting for Barack or Hillary but is voting in Virginia’s primary February 12th with her conscience for the best leader: John Edwards.

His campaign is SUSPENDED, NOT ENDED. Nuff said. Thank you!

Sincerely,
Rosy Baldwin
Arlington, Virginia

Jerry Fallwell said that Hillary Clinton would unite the Republicans more than the devil himself. That’s the only thing I’ve ever agreed with him on.

Obama would unite the Electoral College (and thus the republicans): if he is the nominee, virtually all the states will be RED in November!! That is a way of uniting that I hope we can avoid! I lived through the McGovern and Mondale disasters and do now wish to repeat them this year.

Most people of my age have become very conservative however this country doesn’t need that type of person to run this country. Pres. Bush has made such a mess here and throughout the world that most countries that looked for the US to show them the way to handle problems now looks else where. We need someone who will stand up and tell the American people the truth and what WE need to do to fix the problems. Personally, I think John McClain is a good person however he is to old and more than likely not finish his term so Barck Obama is the man.

Hillary is will draw out conservatives like lightning rod. I’m a conservative, and if it’s Obama V. McCain, I’m staying home. There isn’t much difference. Hillary V. McCain though, and I’m voting McCain. The last thing America needs is a rehash of devisive partisanship that the Clintons will bring. Was it not Hillary who coined the term, “vast right wing conspiracy”? Would any one call that a uniting force? I think not.

There is not another two Democrats alive that evoke a greater visceral reaction among Republicans than Bill and Hillary Clinton. If Hillary is chosen as the Democratic nominee she truly would be a uniter…of the Republican Party.

Neither: They’re going to have to run together now, as there’s too much resentment to unite the party, otherwise. I’m an Edwards supporter who resents Hillary for her war votes and I have a hard choice tomorrow. I may just stay home, as Obama lost me when he said Hillary’s supporters would cross over and vote for him, but the reverse wasn’t true. I can’t put into words how angry that divisive statement made me. He’s a spoiled brat and if he’s the nominee in November, this Democrat will just stay home.

Clinton, by far. I’m an independent with Republican leanings, but I would gladly vote for Obama over the rest of the field. Short of a surprise Ron Paul victory, there’s not a chance I’d vote for Hillary. The past looks good compared to the present, but the bitter fighting between parties if there’s another Clinton White House would be more of what we already have. It’s time for a change.

Hillary will unite the Republicans more than anyone else.

The Republicans have spent almost four years anticipating that they will run against Hillary in 2008 General election. They have been doing their research and storing that materials against that day.

If Obama wins the party’s nomination, that will throw the Republicans out of balance for a while. Before Iowa no one gave a Obama a chance, the Republicans were not preparing for him at all. The Republicans will have to regroup and start looking for materials and things to throw at Obama and within that time, Obama will be selling himself to America.

Hillary is polarizing; I do not yet know the job of Bill Clinton in her cabinet if she becomes the President.

Without question it’s Clinton. Even if there was nobody else running, I’d show up to vote against her. And I’m an independant!

Think Democrats can’t again snatch defeat from the jaws of victory?

The Clinton machine is entrenched in the Party. Politics dictates apparatchiks go with the connected not the selected (people’s choice.) Think Super Delegates; 842 of them. Senator Clinton might become the Democratic Party candidate despite a popular vote for Obama.

If Senator Clinton does become the candidate, she would be least likely to draw support from Independents and Republicans

Senator McCain and his 100 year Iraq war are no more impossible than the Giants beating the Patriots.

That’s easy Jack. The Democrat that can unite the GOP is none other than John McCain. It’s not like real Republican conservatives are lining up to endorse him, so don’t call him the winner just yet.

Jack,
An even better question might be who will also get the independents out to vote against her - that is also Hillary.

A majority of us independents are quite tired and more than sick of polarizing politics and excessive lying in our leaders. We will not only NOT vote FOR her, but come out against her is there is anything reasonable on the other side of the ballot.

I am one of those 48% percent of the population with a negative view towards her (and her co-president and dynasty problem) but also one of those with such firm dislike that it will not be changed no matter what new image she presents - this of course seems to be rotating whenever the winds blow differently.

I am also tired of women knee-jerk voting for her because She’s a Woman!! Sigh. So are many, many wonderful women senators and governors across the country.

When women follow the gender bait, I am just embarrassed.

50 year old Caucasian Independent Voter and Thinker Jane

Sorry Jack but neither will do that. The Republicans are so arrogant and split over the few issues of which they are even aware to unite over anything. Most of them are too concerned about their own electability to care about the presidential candidates. That works for me. I don’t want another of those warmongering superspenders in office anyway.

Are you serious? Do you really have to ask? Come on Jack!

Annoy the media - vote Hillary!

Its obviously Clinton. It would be the equivalent if Jeb Bush were running as a republican, all the democrats would rally against another bush. It doesn’t matter if its good or bad Clinton is related to the presidency from the 90’s which was a major and effective republican talking point starting around 1995.

hopefully the Dems dont mess this one up like they did in 2000 and 2004.

I believe Hilary would unite the Republicans. She is very devisive and has a vengeful attitude about her, Obama is much more suitable to uniting the country and hopefully the voters will show that.

Jack,

Clearly you can see that Obama has the upperhand on the unification of the parties. Clinton, both male and female versions, have a history of prodding the Republican party - Obama lacks that history. Also, throughout this race Obama has touted his goal to work with both parties and to unify our government. No matter how much Clinton attempts to sell that same idea, it just comes off like a bad Super Bowl commercial.

a clinton!

Can anyone really unite the GOP?

Obama definitely. To many people look back on Bill Clinton’s presidency and do not want “another Clinton.” I don’t speak for myself personally, but coming from a republican state (Kansas), I know all to well that no republican would ever vote for Hillary.

Obama, the most liberal Democrat.

To be honest, we should all admit we don’t know who will be the stronger candidate against the Republicans. Senator Clinton has faced attacks for over 16 years, and the convention wisdom is that she’ll unite the party more due to her high negatives. She has, however, a number of loyal supporters who’ve stuck with her through good times as well as bad. Senator Obama is new to the national scene and only faced an out of state Republican candidate brought in at the last minute during his senate race, so we don’t really know how he will perform once the Republicans start reworking his image. He is in the middle of a love fest with the main stream media, and is able to inspire and attrack new voters to the process. In the end, I don’t know if Senator Obama’s oration skills and personality will be able to deflect the Republican attacks, especially once people have a chance to step back and think about his level of experience, his political views (he’s left of center) and his actual accomplishments. I know I have some doubts about his level of experience, and could certainly see myself being more comfortable voting for him in 4 to 8 years.

Billary would get more GOP out to vote……right now she is playing the tears again to get ahead! I should know about the tear ploy, all women use it.

Senator Clinton will unite the Republican Party more because she is a common enemy among all of them.

H - I - L - L - A - R - Y. period.

Hillary is my preference and if Obama wins the nomination then I hope McCain takes it to the top.

Hi Jack,
You are late. Hillary has done that already. What she now divding dems and independents.

Hillary Clinton by far would be the greater uniter of the Republican party. I am an Independent with conservative friends. They often state that they could see themselves voting FOR Obama. They also say that Hillary would be bad for America so they would certainly get out and vote against her.

GREAT SHOW and BOOK BTW

Bryant

Look at how Bill united the Republicans for the next election after he won the White House. They had a Republican Revolution!

I believe that Obama is more likely to unite the GOP than Hillary.

With all the talk of the conservative base not rallying behind John McCain, the Democrats would have to be stupid to serve them up the only thing that could unite their party - Hillary Clinton. When faced with another Clinton presidency, the conservatives will be quick to embrace McCain,

People don’t want to be lectured, they want to be moved. That is the element that separates Clinton and Obama. The unifying element is found in Obama. He moves people and this ultimately will be what will draw people from BOTH parties to him.

This arguement is absolute nonsense. People don’t vote for the person because of fueled hatred for the other side, they vote because they want that person to win.
The Clintons have won twice against the Republican machine and for you to suggest that Hillary will bring the Republicans together one day before super tuesday is absolutely ridiculous.

As much as I like Hillary, I love Barack Obama and have many Republican friends that are planning on voting for him over John McCain should he win the Democratic nomination. These same people also happen to strongly dislike Clinton. This is just another reason why it’s so important to rally behind Mr. Obama.

I dont think any of them will unite. I would say Obama but she would not want to work with him. Trust me.

Jack, the Republicans are likely to unite regardless of whom the Democrats nominate, but it is Hillary Clinton who will guarantee them a cause worth fighting for. By shamelessly injecting race and sex into an otherwise civil campaign, Hillary has fractured the Democrats beyond saving in her mad fight for the presidency.

If she is nominated, then John McCain who is the agent of change in ‘08: change from the Bush-Clinton-Bush-Clinton dynasty of fierce, blind partisanship. There is no doubt in my mind that McCain will have many Obama-supporters behind him if that happens. However, if Sen. Obama wins the nomination, prepare for the second-coming of Jack Kennedy.

BILLARY CLINTON will UNITE the GOP…

and Bloomberg will become the president

Hi Jack,

It is pretty clear that Hilary will do for the republicans what none of their candidate has been able to do at this stage. As Hillary’s campaign has it ” two for one” thus she brings not only her baggage but Bill’s to in the battle for the white house.

If Dems nominate HRC, Mcain might as well raise his right hand now…same states vote Repub, Dem might lose a few states they won in 04….another repub prez and the likes of Scalia, Thomas, Roberts on the Supreme Court…think about that Dems/ Independents when you go vote in November!

Jack,

Clinton, without a doubt. She gives the, “I am better than you demeanor.” She shifts with the wind to whatever makes her look better, making her a very scary time bomb that the Democrats should be ashamed of if she gets to be the nominee. She will polarize this country in the same way George W. Bush and company divided us with their numerous lovely policies. Vote Obama without a doubt.

It is Hillary. She has more baggage than Samsonite. Not only does she bring Republicans out she will force Democrats like me to either stay home or vote for McCain.

Ben
Louisville, Ky

I think Hillary has accomplished alot, but I hate to say it, she is this elections “Gay Marriage.” She will bring out the conservatives in droves.

Barack Obama would be the candidate who could unite the GOP. Many republicans have came out and said that he is a different kind of candidate who wants to eliminate liberal and conservative America. He is also a less polarizing figure than Hillary is. Either one would be better than McCain though.

Even though Obama maybe the more liberal candidate he’s clearly more likable and people just don’t like Hillary. I’m a staunch Obama supporter, but there is no doubt I’ll be voting Republican if Hillary wins and I think there are a lot others that feel the same way. I think Hillary just scares people.

The GOP won’t be able to unite. Bush has done too much to destroy their reputation. There is always that question that follows any argument that the GOP brings upon the DFL, and that is, “Aren’t you a Bush supporter?” Also, look at the GOP and the pool of candidates, there is no diversity at all. The GOP does not reflect the America of today and sorry to say this but noone wants a senior citizen, like McCain, as President. He looked awful during the Republican debate last week in the Reagan Library. We need a leader for our children and of future generations to come, not someone who is backwards thinking. Just look at the speeches on TV and look at the crowd. If that candidate’s audience is not a reflection of what I see in America, I’m not voting for that candidate.

The Clintons unite the Republican Party, some Independents, and some Democrats. It is seen in the polls.

Interesting that you should mention Missouri, as that is where I am. Out here, just about fifty miles west of St. Louis, there is a lot of antagonism towards Hillary Clinton, especially amongst Independents and Republicans. Therefore, I believe Hillary Clinton would unite not only Republicans, but Independents, against the Democratic Party, should she win the nomination. Conversely, I have met a lot of Independents and a few Republicans who are throwing their support behind Obama. Hence, I think Obama is the better choice for a Democratic win in November.

Hillary Clinton unites the GOP, no doubt about it. Unfortunately if you’re a democrat, she has strong negatives within the democratic party too which would keep some people at home in the General Election.

Barack Obama in my opinion has the ability not only to unite both partys, but also unite this country. it seems to me that all of this seems to be a battle of “red and blue states”. Hes an amazing talker and can give really inspiring speeches. Who knows maby he could be the next JFK.

Hi Jack,
You are late. Hillary has done that already. She is now dividing dems and independents.

Hillary because she equals = Whitewater, travelgate, Vince Foster, illegal stock market gains and White House thievery!!!

Without a question Hillary Clinton would be more of a unifier than Barack Obama. She has all the baggage from the Bill Clinton administration plus she is simply not a person that has a likable personality. She is a manufactured politician from the Clinton family. They moved her to New York at the last minute to get her into the Senate so that they could run her for president in 8 years. This was all planned from the beginning. If she would have became a Senator from Arkansas where she belongs it might have been different.

Jack, I am an independant that votes Republican.
No one will unite the Republican party more than Mrs. Clinton.
I talk to Republicans (including myself) all the time that like Obama.
I talk to Democrats who constantly say they hate Hilldawg as well.

After 8 years of polarized politics from Bush the last thing we need is another 8 years of polarized politics under Mrs. Clinton.

If the Democrats are to win in ‘08, then better Obama than her.

Without doubt, it is Hillary. That seems to be the reason why democrats and independents are gravitating towards Obama.

Hillary can unite as well as divide the GOP. Ann Coulter’s support proves she can attract Republicans especially women. Barack stands a lesser chance to do either.

It is sad that Hillary will unite the GOP because of her reputation and positions. This is clear indication this country needs a leader who is a democrat, clear about the positions and who can inspire us to think and live to be the best we can be.
It’s time to make history by electing Barack Obama!

Hillary Clinton would be better at uniting the party and working and bringing democrats and republicans together. Also, what the hell does “polarizing” mean. It certainly is not something Mrs. Clinton is.

Jack,
The “lightning rod” analogy given early is spot on. If Hillary is given the go ahead to run against any of the republicans she will be eaten alive. Conservatives will make it a personal crusade to make sure that she does not get back into the White House.
Mark

Dear Jack:

I think the answer to your question is obvious. It’s Billary

Let’s face it, Hillary Clinton will not only unite the GOP, but she will unite everybody who does not want to see a continuation of this Bush, Clinton, Bush syndrome. Bush came to office cleaning up after the Clintons. Now they want to go back to the White House to clean up after the Bushes again. We need somebody to clean up after the last 20 years once and for all.

Definelty Barack! Barack is the candidae with the willigness and ability to unite the parties and no divide. Clinton speaks very divisivly always talking in terms of beating the republicans. Although we know it is the goal of the democratic candidate to beat out the republican candiadate the way she talks about it si ery divisive and would not aford her to gain republican suport needed in the genral election. That said Barack has the ability to bring bothe Dems and Repubs to the table to work together. He is a conensus builder. He has the greatest chance in the general election. If Obama gets the nominaton he will win the general election by a landslide.

Jack,
There’s no doubt it is Clinton. She has been, and still remains one of the most divisive political personalities of our time.

If she is nominated, it will unite the Republican party. Period. This should be common knowledge at this point.

Thanks, I always enjoy your candor!

I personally don’t think any candidate from the Democrats can unite the mess that has become the Republican party. I don’t think crazy glue could unite them. It is however obvious that you political egg heads at CNN think the Democrats have a better chance of winning with Obama. You’ve done everything short of a direct endorsement. I think your bias is irresponsible and reprehensible. Whatever happened to unbiased reporting.

Hillary will unite the republicans to vote against her. President Obama will unite republicans with democrats and independents to get things done!

I personally do not trust Hillary Clinton she is a typical Washington DC Politician. Though Obama doesnt have a lot of experience i somehow feel he has the ability to move people to bring people together to make people dig deep inside and see what is best for the country. He is a motivator an inspirational leader who will bring people together

Definitely Hillary. Republicans are repulsed by the thought of Hillary and Bill occupying the White House. They will line up to vote against her. My republican friends actually like and admire Barack Obama, even if they don’t agree with him on all the issues. One friend, a staunch conservative, said that he believes it is Obama’s destiny to be president.

Jack, the one that can unite the country must not be a 35 year veteran of the bitterly partisan warfare that has paralized us and stopped the American dream dead in its tracks. Americans must remember we are a nation of ideas over a nation of status quo. We want a new voice, we plea for civility and bi-partisan problem solving. For me that means Barack Obama

I’ve been a Republican always. Not crazy about any of the candidates this round. I like Huckabee personally, but I’m not sure he’’s presidental material.. But I’ll vote for McCain twice to keep Hillary out of the White House.

Janice in Plainview, TX

Let’s face it, Hillary Clinton will not only unite the GOP, but she will unite everybody who does not want to see a continuation of this Bush, Clinton, Bush syndrome. Bush came to office cleaning up after the Clintons. Now they want to go back to the White House to clean up after the Bushes again. We need somebody to clean up after the last 20 years once and for all.

Gerald
Sumter, S carolina

Jack, I can’t even believe this question is being raised. The Clintons have as many enemies as they do friends in Washington. With all of Hillary’s talk about the “Republican attack machine,” how could any Democrat in their right mind believe she can unite the GOP and work across the aisles? A lot of Republicans hate the Clintons passionately. Fortunately, the same can’t be said of Barack Obama. Obama wins this one, hands down.

As a college student, I am witnessing first hand how Barack Obama is not only uniting my colleagues, but also democrats in general. Even though this is my first time voting for a presidential candidate, I am able to observe the enthusiasm and passion that Obama brings out in our youth. This shows his ability to bring together Dems of all ages. Hillary seems to be a love or hate candidate, whereas there are very few voters who are strongly opposed to Obama. This election is for the Democrats to lose and with Hillary as our candidate, we risk doing exactly that. Obama has and will continue to unite the Democratic party and bring a fresh voice to the White House in 2009. Get out and vote tomorrow!

Jack,

Sen. Obama has been spreading a message of unity and America is finally believing in it. Sen. Clinton can cry again and again but as the saying goes, “Fool me once, shame on you, fool me twice, shame on me.” Sen. Obama will unite the country because people know he can.

Tommy
Canton, IL

If you have to ask, you really haven’t been paying attention for the past 15 years.

(yes, it’s Hillary)

I personally know republicans that will vote for obama rather than mcain, and all of them say that they would rather be shot dead than vote for hillary.

Jack,

I have said all along, that Hilary Clinton is the Republican’s best asset! She has been described by Dave Bossie as “vicious” and she is. As for insincerity, she has mastered that as well as obfuscation. How in heaven’s name anybody could pick her to represent the USA internationally, is beyond me.

John, from ON - an American loving Canadian! (yup, we’re watching very carefully).

Hey Jack, It is absurd to think that Barack Obama will unite the Republican party as much or more than Hillary Clinton will. Its interesting how she is running around the country saying she has experience with the Republican attack machine, well he won’t need it to the level she will! Republicans hate her, and reasonably so! I know so many Republicans who have never voted for a Democrat in their lives, namely my parents, aunts, uncles, and possibly even my grandparents, and they would support Barack Obama. Me as a lifelong Democrat will have a very hard time voting for her if she is the nominee! So if you want to discuss polarization the answer lies with the Clintons, and most certainly not with Barack Obama. McCain is going to be a very tough candidate to beat in November for either candidate, but I assure you Barack has a better chance of doing so!

Jack, a very one-sided framing of the question: you might have included some of the negatives (at least to the GOP) of Obama. For instance, the National Journal recently named — re his Senate voting record — “the most liberal Senator” in that august body. Just maybe the GOP might ‘unite’ around that. Ya think?

obama can and will unite this country. he’s a bridge builder across party as well as racial lines.

Absolutely 100% Obama. Obama is weak on National Security, weak on the Economy and weak on details. Republicans will not only launch scandalous major attacks, but try to nickel and dime his ideas and plans for America.

Clinton on the other hand, while being polarizing, is that way because they know they can’t beat her. They hate her because she has endured the slime, lies and outright demagoguery of the Republicans and not only is still standing but thriving being a Senator and will be the next President of the United States of America.

Republicans will try to pick-off the weakest, and will actually see hope of keeping the Whitehouse and thus will pick-up energy and rally around that.

-Ronnie
Texas

Definitely Obama. Many Americans are sick of the Clintons — their lies,
phony smiles and just darn “same ole/same ole.”
We need a new face with new fresh ideas. We don’t need Bill running the
country for Hilliary and both of them capitalizing on all the perks they know how to manipulate. The United States cannot afford them!

Clinton will definitely not only unite Republicans but also independents and more moderate Democrats like myself. I think people seem to forget that even if she is elected, unless she can get some Republicans to vote with her on her issues, she won’t be able to get anything done while in the White House. Obama is much more of a unifying person while Clinton only talks about “fighting” the Republicans. This isn’t a schoolyard brawl with Clinton as the school bully, this is our government! I want politicians that can understand and relate to one another and find what they have in common and Clinton has no interest in doing that. I voted in the primary for Obama, but if Clinton gets the nomination, I will vote for whoever is running against her, even if it’s Satan himself. No one is more bitter and smug than the Clintons and I had enough in the 90s!

They both will unite the republicans let’s face it their are states that neither can win.
I think Clinton will do better in the toss-up states Ohio,Pennsylvania,Maine,Virginia,Florida,and Missouri.

L.M.,Arizona

Both candidates can unite the GOP. Obama because of his position against the invasion of Iraq since the begining, and to be honesty, someone who is capable to vote for McCain, would vote some years ago in favor of the invasion. And who did it? Hillary.

Jack,

It is fast becoming very obvious to many hopefulls including some sceptics that Senator Obama’s wave of change in a force to be reconed with. Hillary is much to much of a polarizing personality. It is a blessing and a shame that she is hitched to Bill.

Herb

Mr. Cafferty,

If my Republican friends are representative of Republicans elsewhere, nothing would unite them as would the opportunity to vote against Hillary Clington. It is just overwhelming.

Ron

From Florida to across the nation Hillary Clinton will Unite us all. Clinton might have some issues now but she does know what the country needs in all directions.
Thanks Jack

Hillary is the lightning rod. The neo-cons who run America raised millions to keep Bill in court. The will be screaming “Whitewater” over again. They should be happy to have her though. She will be kinder to the “military industrial complex” and the banks than Obama.

I am a democrat and I know hillary is good for the gop she has had alot of standing up to the gop that makes her the one to beat and if the democrats think she will unite all the independents and youth to vote for her well she would be wrong . GO OBAMA

Hilary Clinton would unite the Republican Party against her because she is a controversial figure. Even the independents would likely choose the less evil which would be John Mcain.

Without question, Hillary Clinton would you unite the GOP. While Barack Obama draws people in as a uniter, he also stays away from intentionally segregating those who dont have the same belief system as him (as does Hillary). Hillary is not only polarizing but inspirational in the wrong kind of way. Enough people don’t like her or believe her to be fake (myself Included) that she could easily pull other republicans or independents (like myself) who may have voted for a genuine democrat, but decide to vote against Hillary (for a republican)

Hillary Clinton will be the uniting force for the Republicans and Barack Obama will be the uniting force for the Democrats as well as the Independents in this country. Hillary is viewed by too many Americans as a devisive candidate whose personality, more times than not, will turn off potential Independent voters as well as younger, first time voters. As a first time voter myself, I understand that most young people like me have grown up in the era of Bush’s ignorance and we are sick of it. Obama will be able to unite the younger voters and independents to push past the special interests of Washington and unite this country.

I’ve nevered seen a more polarizing figure than Hillary.
However, Obama is to the left of Hillary. Quite a dilemma
for republicans but in the long run, I beleive either Democratiic
candidate will easily energize the Repulican Party once the nomiations
are made.

ANSWER: Hillary, by a “country mile”! Senator Obama has given me the pleasure of feeling excited and hopeful for the first time in many years! Hillary, on the other hand, was then, and is now, a shameless national embarrassment. I don’t know about anybody else, but, personally, I resent having “dirty laundry” flicked in my face, as she and that doofus husband of hers did in the 1990’s, in so many ways! For me, it’s either Obama, or the Republican nominee…..whoever it happens to be!

“Lightning Rod” doesn’t even begin to describe the degree to which Hillary Clinton will galvanize the Republican base. Just as a lot of Democrats are planning to vote FOR her because they long for the good economic times they remember from the 1990s, a parallel reverse nostalgia will bring out the GOP in droves to prevent a second Clinton from gaining the Oval Office.

C.J.
Washington, DC

Anyone who believes Hillary will unite anyone, is an idiot. She can’t even bring in her old Kennedy friends to endorse her! If her friends and her husbands old cabinet members leave her for Obama….WHAT DOES THAT SAY? People love Obama because he is real and genuine, Hillary is clearly being seen more and more as a machine…so cue the tears.

Barack Obama, is the best candidate to Unite the Republicans base on the fact that he has proven that he can unite across the line and bring people together.

Although I gained new found respect for Sen. Clinton in the last debate, it is undeniable that Billary would be the lightning rod that would unite the GOP.

I’m not saying they would win against the Democrats, but they would have a better chance at winning the election if she were to win the nomination.

Another problem for the Dems, if she wins, would be for the Vice President.

C.

Senator Obama will untie the republican party more. What ever dislike others may have for Senator Clinton , this is still the USA and ” RACE ” is still a factor.

Jack, this is a no-brainer. The answeer is Clinton, hands down! She has little or no record of working in a unifying and bipartisan fashion on capitol hill, and republicans are united in their dislike for her. Republicans will kill for a Clinton nomination because they know it’s a fight they can easily win.