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April 22, 2008
Posted: 02:19 PM ET

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FROM CNN’s Jack Cafferty:

The race between Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama has gotten so nasty that it’s hard to imagine the two ever teaming up on a so-called “dream ticket.” But some Democrats are holding out hope for just that.

The New York Times reports how several high-profile Democrats, like Former New York Governor Mario Cuomo and Pennsylvania Governor Ed Rendell, along with some of the uncommitted superdelegates think it’s a good idea. Their thinking is it would combine the voter bases of both and be a way to end the nomination race before the party’s convention in August.

Aides from the two campaigns don’t rule it out, but there are some serious roadblocks. To start with, Clinton and Obama probably can’t wait to be done with each other. Obama’s camp believes Clinton’s baggage and her campaign’s negative tone would hurt his message of hope. And the Times, citing unnamed sources, reports former President Bill Clinton thinks the Obama campaign has portrayed him as a race-baiter and bare knuckles campaigner.

Some Clinton aides say she would almost have to offer Obama the V.P. position because of his popularity. And at this point, either candidate could argue they have the right of first refusal on the number two spot.

History gives examples where politicians managed to put their dislike for each other aside for the greater political good. JFK picked LBJ as his running mate, Ronald Reagan selected George Bush and John Kerry chose John Edwards. After all – in the end, it’s all about winning, isn’t it?

Here’s my question to you: Do Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama each owe the other one a spot on the ticket?

Interested to know which ones made it on air?

Barbara from North Carolina writes:
Why would someone of his stature lower his ethics and even ask her? Doesn’t make sense to me. I’d rather not vote if her name is anywhere near the ballot. Enough lies and enough Clintons. Make them go away.

M.R. from North Carolina writes:
I don’t know what they owe each other, but if they can work together for the betterment of our country then they certainly owe it to the American people.

Gary from El Centro, California writes:
I think there have been too many attacks of a personal nature for them to be able to go forward as a team. Had they kept it to policy differences, maybe, but the road they have gone down does not lead to peace and harmony between the two of them.

D. from Washington writes:
Jack, Not at all. Both of them have been so polarizing that I would actually dread seeing that team in the White House together. Now, one using the other on policy matters or having a seat at the table is a different matter. I’d welcome that. For a unifying spot on the ticket, let’s consider Sen. Edwards.

Lori from Michigan writes:
They both have moved beyond the point of considering the other on the ticket. There would be more pressure for Hillary to put Obama on the ticket, but I’m sure he would decline. Hillary wouldn’t give Obama anything important to do but follow Bill around and make sure he stays out of trouble.

Norm in Massachusetts writes:
No, but they “owe” the country. They talk about “fair” all the time. What I see as fair is both on the ticket. Half the Democrats want one, half want the other. If the DNC had any common sense, they would demand it! So you two put aside what squabbles you have and do what is right… soon!

Lori writes:
No. If she were his V.P., he’d have to have a food tester.

Filed under: 2008 Election • Barack Obama • Hillary Clinton


Barbara in NC   April 22nd, 2008 2:25 pm ET

Why would someone of his stature lower his ethics and even ASK her? Doesn’t make sense to me. I’d rather not vote if her name is anywhere near the ballot. Enough lies and enough Clintons. Make them go away.

Rob, Arvada, CO   April 22nd, 2008 2:26 pm ET

Jack, interesting question. Initially, I thought no way, no how, too many bridges burned, and too many kitchen sinks thrown. But then you consider, this “dream ticket” would be able to beat McCain in November in all the ways that count. You wouldn’t have so many spite-votes for McCain if these two candidates would call truce and agree to work together for once, and put an end to the Bush era by bringing the Democratic Party together.

Will K. San Jose, CA   April 22nd, 2008 2:27 pm ET

No

DC in DC   April 22nd, 2008 2:28 pm ET

Jack,
Not at all. Both of them have been so polarizing that I would actually dread seeing that team in the White House together. Now, one using the other on policy matters or having a seat at the table is a different matter. I’d welcome that. For a unifying spot on the ticket, let’s consider Sen. Edwards. Did you catch his Ed’Words on The Colbert Report last Thursday night? Made me wish he was still in the race..

Jan   April 22nd, 2008 2:28 pm ET

With an Obama/Clinton or

Clinton/ Obama ticket it would absolutley be a sure win

Clinton may be able to beat McCain, but if Obama is the nominee
the Republicans are going to tear him apart.

THE ABSOLUTLY NEED TO BE ON THE SAME TICKET<

AND I DON’T EVEN LIKE OBAMA< BUT I LIKE TO WIN

Allan,Cameron Park, Ca.   April 22nd, 2008 2:28 pm ET

No!!! Neither could ocupy the V.P spot. They both have too much ego.
Hillary and Edwards in 08.

Howard   April 22nd, 2008 2:28 pm ET

NO, NO , NO with 21 debates and more to come they owe a private citizen a spot on the ticket their, give one of their many supporters the chances to change not only to change their own life but the world.

Hward
Joshua Tree, Ca

barbara   April 22nd, 2008 2:30 pm ET

Jack,
You must be kidding! NO! neither one would want to be on the same ticket with each other, I would not imagine! but anything can happen in this race. I think if Hillery does not make a high showing tonight————she should give it up!!!!!!!!!!!She is just damaging the DEMS. if she goes on. The Country is sick of it all by now, it all started too early!

Barbara from Florida

Carol c.   April 22nd, 2008 2:30 pm ET

Absolutely not! That might have been a possibility if she had not taken the campaign negative. I think he held out as long as he could before he started answering her tirades. There are so many wonderful people who could compliment as vice president for him, but truth of the matter is, if she is elected, Bill will do most of what a vice president would do outside of senate duties.

They had their turn–they should be happy with what they did and give someone else a chance!

Carol
Knoxville, TN

Michelle Zeman   April 22nd, 2008 2:31 pm ET

Absolutely not. Adding Hillary to the ticket would be the only way that Barak could disappoint me.

Michelle Zeman
Medford, New York

Allen G. From Pa.   April 22nd, 2008 2:31 pm ET

No Keep Bill clinton away from the whitehouse.He will try to run everything.

Mark - Asheville, NC   April 22nd, 2008 2:32 pm ET

Cuomo and Rendell should know better than this. A weak candidate, whether on top or bottom of a ticket, will sink that ticket. Obama will draw the unrelenting fire from the smear attacks if he is ON the ticket, and will drag it down - it matters not if he is number one or number two. As Mondale’s VP, Ferraro was the target of the smears and Mondale could not get a word in for months. The same would happen now but with different candidates and smears.

Owe each other a spot?? What an odd idea. I see nothing along that line whatsoever.

Scott L. - Wichita, Kansas   April 22nd, 2008 2:32 pm ET

I’m sorry, but the “Dream Ticket” won’t raise quite the support that they think it will. There’s going to be a lot of animosity after this fued ends, and putting the loser under the winner will only make it worse.

Nuwan Sam   April 22nd, 2008 2:32 pm ET

No. they don’t owe each other to do that. But it is a darn good idea which I like. Both of them have similar goals but have two completely different personalities that can contribute positively to a successful administration. As I see it, Clinton is a tough fighter who is always fired up and Obama is softer person who is strong in his words and have the ability to attract many people. These two character traits are needed to overcome the challanges democrats would face when implementing those changes they talk about.

Nuwan from Houston, TX

Obama Mama   April 22nd, 2008 2:32 pm ET

No NO and a thousand times NO!

Norm from Mass   April 22nd, 2008 2:33 pm ET

No, but “they” owe the country .They talk about “fair” all the time. What I see as fair is both on the ticket. Half the Dems want one, half want the other, if the DNC had any commonsense they would demand it! So you two put aside what squabbles you have and do what is right ..soon!

David,San Bernardino,CA.   April 22nd, 2008 2:33 pm ET

No! They have both been so negative and hurtful that I don’t see them being able to reconcile on anything. It is going to be interesting to see how the democrats in the Senate interact with the losing candidate after all that has been said and done. Saying my dear friend and colleague and then saying the most awful things about someone is very hard to overcome. I don’t see kumbaya in the near future.

Greg in Ga.   April 22nd, 2008 2:33 pm ET

No. For one i don’t think Obama would want her as a vice, and second i don’t think he would want to be her’ s. The fact is if Hillary hadn’t burned down the city just so she could be president, maybe we could see them on the same ticket if one wanted it. The real question is who would be their Vices if either win, and who’s out there that would fit to either these two runners. i Say Edwards, i think he staying low till one is clearly the winner, for that very fact.

Dan, Chantilly Va   April 22nd, 2008 2:34 pm ET

Neither of them would ever settle for the #2 spot, but I think it would be a gesture of good-will if the winner offered the position to the loser. At the very least it would be a symbolic act of “re-uniting” the party. A joint ticket between the two would steam roll McCain, but it’s not in the best interest of the country to have a president and vice president in a power struggle.

jeff   April 22nd, 2008 2:34 pm ET

Its a good idea so we don’t have to blame any one at the end but they should be ready to look stupid when they start campaigning again us a team.

Mike S., New Orleans, Louisiana   April 22nd, 2008 2:35 pm ET

No, but I think they will politely offer the spot and then one will politely decline. Any Democrat who thinks these two will be ticket buddies hasn’t been watching the news. The acrimony is far beyond anything in Reagan/Bush or Kerry/Edwards. Obama will choose Richardson.
Clinton won’t get to choose anyone, since she won’t be the nominee.

Patricia   April 22nd, 2008 2:35 pm ET

Owe each other a place on the ticket? Maybe. But, I don’t think that will happen. There’s been too many things said. They will be lucky if they don’t strangle each other at the convention.
Patricia
Palmdale, Ca.

Ron Mechanicsville, VA   April 22nd, 2008 2:35 pm ET

I have always suggested that a Clinton/Obama ticket would be a landslide winner in November. It would also clinch Obama as the Democrat Candidate 8 years from now. He would have 8 years of experience no one could deny! It would promise the Democratic party the next 16 years in power! That would be a plan. It will take 16 years to clean up Bush’s plundering and pillaging of this country. The question isn’t do they owe each other, it’s; Are they smart enough to see the future benefits of a Clinton/ Obama team. It won’t work the other way!

Ryan, Woodbridge, Va   April 22nd, 2008 2:35 pm ET

Jack,

Yes, they do owe it to each other because they owe it to the American people. Unifying the party for the common good is more important than egos and or political gain. After all this is supposed to be about doing what is best for the future of our country and if that means one of them has to take the #2 spot then so be it. Plus the only way to truly reverse all the damage they are both doing to the party with the extremely negative campaigning is to run on a unified ticket.

Wendy. San Rafael, CA   April 22nd, 2008 2:36 pm ET

The only thing they owe each other is to fully support the other candidate in the future campaign. Absolutely nothing else. Although with the scorched earth campaign run by Hillary Clinton, I wonder if she has the capability of doing that?

We will have to see if she will support Obama (the likely nominee) with a lot more enthusiasm than she gave to Kerry leading up to the 2004 election. I guess anything is possible!

Wendy, San Rafael, CA

carrie,detroit   April 22nd, 2008 2:36 pm ET

Jack the only thing hillary owes to the american people is to get out of the race NOW

DAD in Hollis, NH   April 22nd, 2008 2:36 pm ET

Interesting idea but it will never fly. As you mentioned too much baggage and how do each overcome the mud that has been thrown. The next battle that will rage is who is number one and who is number two. By the time that is figured out the DNC will be in shambles and the GOP will be in the White House. (and I, a registered republican, just might be in Canada.)

Rehan   April 22nd, 2008 2:36 pm ET

A more apt question would be do they owe the American people. If they do then the winner must offer a spot to the runner up. Anything to stop the 3rd bush term

James in Cape Coral, FL   April 22nd, 2008 2:36 pm ET

Jack,
Quite simply, NO! What this country needs right now is a fresh prospective. A young man with a new generation of ideas that will leave the politics of yesterday behind. Hillary Clinton and all her corporate supporters would directly and negatively affect the change American’s deserve. A dream ticket, HA! Try a poisoned pill in an otherwise clean administration.

Anne/Seattle   April 22nd, 2008 2:37 pm ET

They do not. The VP better go to someone either can work best with and then bring in a group of voters that might not vote for the presidential candidate. And for myself, I’m sick of seeing the two of them together.

Larry from Georgetown, Tx   April 22nd, 2008 2:37 pm ET

Nope. I would “HOPE” that Obama’s running mate would be a woman who could be more civil and honest with people. I’m sure we could find a spot for Hillary as Ambassador to Bosnia.

Y, Atlanta, GA   April 22nd, 2008 2:39 pm ET

The difference with this possible ticket and past Presidential tickets is that none of the running mates in the past were former First Ladies. I don’t think Hillary wants to be second in command. She endured being second for 8 years. Her ambitions are too high to be a happy team player. She needs her own country. I’m sure there’s an island somewhere out there.

Linda, Oregon   April 22nd, 2008 2:39 pm ET

You’ve gotta be kidding, Jack! What Clinton owes Sen. Obama is a jumbo-size apology…but she’s not that big a person. Sen. Obama, on the other hand, owes her nothing. Fact of the matter is, if the “Clinton Machine” breaks down, as it should, Obama will win the democratic ticket and I think he’s way too smart to put her on the ticket. Then again, she did say she knows how to shoot a gun and has some experience duck hunting…That is the position you’re asking about, right???

Michael Lorton, Virginia   April 22nd, 2008 2:40 pm ET

Jack: Neither Obama nor Hillary is obligated to offer the other a spot on the ticket. Any preceived obligations would be a ‘’should” and a should is a ”have to” with no teeth; it is dead energy that would serve no purpose to the Democratic party, but surely benefit the McCain campaign.

Lyn from Petoskey Michigan   April 22nd, 2008 2:40 pm ET

Not a bit. But, if Hiliary is the nominee - she had better get him on the ticket if she expects to win in November If Obama wins, the very last thing he wants is her (and oh, yeah, hubby Bill) in the white house with him … he’ll need to employ food tasters!

Shirley-Ohio   April 22nd, 2008 2:40 pm ET

No, because it has got too ulgy. Clinton tried to bring Obama down as if he was the Democratic nominee and she was the republican nominee running for present. After Barack is given the nominee I wouldn’t have her doing anything for me for fear of what she might do or say.

Shirley, Ohio

Terry from North Carolina   April 22nd, 2008 2:40 pm ET

Jack
This scenario would not work, Barack Obama has to be his own man and not have the Clintons looking over his shoulder at every move he makes. No one owes anyone anything !

MR in NC   April 22nd, 2008 2:40 pm ET

I don’t know what they owe each other, but if they can work together for the betterment of our country then they certainly owe it to the American people.

brent , texas   April 22nd, 2008 2:40 pm ET

Taking on one another on the ballot would be like kissing your neighbor’s wife…nothing but trouble. You take on baggage that you already know about and no matter what the outcome, the kiss just wasn’t worth it. There isn’t any love here and loyalty, at least on the Clinton side, is nonexistant to anyone. It always sounds good until you see them in the morning.

Rick Medina,OH   April 22nd, 2008 2:41 pm ET

The only thing these two ‘owe’ the country is a clear vision of ‘what comes next,’ assuming they can beat the weakling the Republicans are putting forth.

Steve Idaho   April 22nd, 2008 2:41 pm ET

Know Jack they don’t, I think Hillary has irritated not just Obama, but the whole country with her schizophrenic approach to politics. I don’t see how Obama will be able to stomach campaigning with her and then sitting as a vice President for four to eight years.
Go Obama Edwards 2008

Celia Ann in Michigan   April 22nd, 2008 2:42 pm ET

NO WAY!!! I think that Sen Obama has the nomination. Unfortunately no one has been able to convince Bill and HIllary.

Are you kidding? She could trust him, but he surely could not trust her!! He would need food testers, extra secret service, and since she and Bill cannot remember anything they say, he would have to record them.

Both Clinton’s are using the tatic of “THE POLITICS OF PERSONAL DISTRUCTION,” which they invented in the early 1990’s. It is used by accusing your challenger of the your own malfeasance, by never admitting the charge or challenge, by avoiding addressing the challenge in debate or interviews, and by eventually accusing your challenger or opponent of the challenge. The goal is to shead doubt on their character, integrity and credibility.

Brian from Fort Mill, S.C.   April 22nd, 2008 2:42 pm ET

Jack,
Whatever it is that you’re smoking, I want some. The Tyson-Holyfield fight wasn’t this bloody, and he bit the guy’s ear off!

Obama would be an idiot to choose Hillary as a running mate. And he’d be an even bigger idiot if he were Hillary’s running mate.

The only thing to do is to pair up the nominee with either a more experienced governor (for Obama), or a younger, more charismatic senator (for Hillary).

But one thing’s for sure: Obama needs to divorce Clinton - both of them!

Ryan, Champaign IL   April 22nd, 2008 2:44 pm ET

The only thing owed in this campaign is an apology from Hillary to the Democratic Party, for propping up John McCain’s candidacy.

john .................................... marlton nj   April 22nd, 2008 2:44 pm ET

No, nobody owes anyone anything. It is winner take all.

Paul from Houma, Louisiana   April 22nd, 2008 2:45 pm ET

No they do not. I think Clinton would need Obama to win.

But Obama does not need Clinton. She and Bill would cause more damage than good. If they are consistent at anything it is making bad decisions.

My younger brother will not vote for anything with Clinton in it. He’s only 21 and the only thing he can remember is Bush/Clinton/Bush…..Clinton? No thanks, and I agree with him.

Susan from Twentynine Palms, CA   April 22nd, 2008 2:45 pm ET

They don’t owe each other anything, but it would help the party to see some type of unity after the primaries end.

As one who lived through the tumult of the sixties, I have long thought that Sen Obama would do well to pick Sen Clinton for his running mate, if only as a form of a life insurance: those who would want to see him gone would be unlikely to welcome her accession as a result.

Mike from Syracuse NY   April 22nd, 2008 2:45 pm ET

Jack,
They probably owe their party more than they owe each other. If their primary objective is to win in November, it’s their best bet. Of course, they still need to decide if it’s Clinton/Obama or Obama/Clinton. Good luck with that.

hill supporter   April 22nd, 2008 2:46 pm ET

Jack, I think so if the DEMOCRATS want to take back the white house. For the most part give or take a few the two are neck and neck and we as voters are really invested and excited about both of them. I think we would need to see our Candidate as Pres or VP

Andre / Florida   April 22nd, 2008 2:46 pm ET

Jack - A Hillary nomination would mean trashing the votes of Barack suppoters from all over the country, 30+ states. If that were to happen her only hope of winning the general election would be to have him as her running mate. However, that assumes a lot of things. Under those circumstances I don’t think Obama’s base support would vote for her, even with him on the ticket. On the other hand Obama, who is still a young man, could take a page out of Hillary’s playbook, turn down the VP slot, endure 4 years of John Mccain and ride the wave election injustice to the White House in 2012.

Andre,
Miami, Florida

John in San Diego   April 22nd, 2008 2:48 pm ET

Jack, I hardly think the negative campaigning in this primary season leaves either candidate “owing” anything to the other. And, just as I don’t want my President beholden to rich campaign contributors, I don’t want Hillary or Obama making important decisions based on owing anyone anything. Their only “obligation” should be to us, the voters.

Bill, Quarryville, PA   April 22nd, 2008 2:48 pm ET

I think that ship left port a long time ago. They went at each other to hard with too much negative ads to be able to be on each other’s ticket.

tami from ontario, Canada   April 22nd, 2008 2:49 pm ET

NO

Shahrukh, Michigan   April 22nd, 2008 2:49 pm ET

No! That’s equivalent to cheating the voters. You spend over a year convincing voters that you will be the better president (and how lousy the other person is) and suddenly you do a switcharoo that your opponent is basically only a heart-beat different than you? That’s bait n switch!

Jenny   April 22nd, 2008 2:50 pm ET

Jack, Ok since young children may eb watching I will try to keep this response family friendly , ABSOLUTELY,POSITIVELY NOT! There not a single four letter words was uttered. Short and sweet too.

Jenny - Georgia

Tracy/San Diego   April 22nd, 2008 2:50 pm ET

Owed? Absolutely not. Earned, without question.

Harry   April 22nd, 2008 2:50 pm ET

Considering the current circumstances, a Clinton/Obama ticket is not even a possibility.

Regarding an Obama/Clinton ticket….This would lead one to believe that Hillary is really interested in Obama winning in November. Also, this would mean that Hillary is interested in being V.P until she is 69 and then running for the presidency.

My oh My, if you believe all that, then have I got some choice real estate for you!!

Harry
Ky.

Kris   April 22nd, 2008 2:52 pm ET

If Clinton is the nominee I think she should seriously consider the strength of the young base Obama has invigorated and how it might help in November; but does she ‘owe’ him the VP slot? no.

If Obama is the nominee I don’t think he is strong enough to consider Clinton as his runningmate. Her being on the ticket will highlight his lack of experience. He will need to find a runningmate who provides that experience but who has a lesser public profile; Bill Richardson might be a good option. But, no; Obama also doesn’t ‘owe’ the VP slot to anyone.

ajks   April 22nd, 2008 2:52 pm ET

No, I can’t imagine the mess that we would have to put up with if Bill got back in the White House.

france j   April 22nd, 2008 2:53 pm ET

No. If Clinton was really winning this would never have been mentioned. Why should anyone have to be tied down to both Hillary and Bill? That’s to big of a distraction to start with. from Chesapeake,Va

Tom, Avon, Maine, The Heart of Democracy   April 22nd, 2008 2:54 pm ET

Oil said to Dubba-ya, “Kill me a son.”

George said, “Where you want this killing done”

Oil said, “Out on Highway Rhino Run.”

Jack, there have been too many people in government who owed somebody something. The whole reason Obama is where he is now, is because he is beholding to no one but “we the people.”

John in San Diego   April 22nd, 2008 2:55 pm ET

Hillary should quit - period. She needs to break out of her denial.

Uriel   April 22nd, 2008 2:55 pm ET

It would have been great for them to make history together as the first black man and woman as well as black/white combination in the white house together.

But as the saying goes Jack “two bulls cant reign in the same pen”.

Clintons havent been conciliatory nor accommodating.I guess its not in their nature to be anyway.

So in the end this possibility has been trumped by the Clintons.Really weird considering she (Hillary Clinton)is not trusted to lead the country by the majority of Democrats

Obama has proven he is the change America and the world needs at this time

Uriel
Toronto,Canada

Ally - New Hampshire   April 22nd, 2008 2:56 pm ET

It wouldn’t be politically expedient to have them on the same ticket. After the kind of mud slinging that has gone on, it would be hypocritical for either one to choose the other as a running mate. Putting politics and punditry aside, the simple fact is you can’t disparage someone one day and praise them the next. This is why Mitt Romney is such a joke. A few months ago he was saying McCain is uninformed on the subject of the economy and now according to Romney McCain is an expert. And he has the nerve to call Barack Obama a “quintessential politician”.

AndyZ; Fairfax, VA   April 22nd, 2008 2:56 pm ET

If Clinton asks Obama to run as her Vice-President it would put him in the position of being most qualified in 2016. Obama has little to gain from asking Clinton. After all, party unification is merely a myth for the democrats. (Obama, in the caucus room with the verbal rapier.)

Matthew Gatto   April 22nd, 2008 2:57 pm ET

Hillary would have to…Obama would be doomed with her on the ticket.

Seminole, Florida

A Kraft   April 22nd, 2008 2:57 pm ET

no way…Obama needs someone honest and trustworthy, who will compliment him, ie Sam Nunn, Jim Webb.

Stacy Clarks   April 22nd, 2008 2:57 pm ET

Not at all. In the beginning of this race, before Clinton successfully ripped this party apart, i would have said absolutely. But now, her campaign has done too much damage to the party, and has divided this country, all without haven even gotten the nomination yet. If Obama is the nominee, and I believe he will be, he should stay as far away from Clinton as possible. If Clinton is by some miracle the nominee, she better start begging Obama to be on her ticket.

Larry - Fulton, Ill.   April 22nd, 2008 2:57 pm ET

No, to put them number 1 & 2 on the ticket would be counter productive. It would seem like a riddle wrapped up in an enigma. It would be shooting the Dems in the foot and open the door for McCain to win in November. The best thing to do is for Hillary to call it a day and stop slinging mud. She should be supporting Barack instead of bad mouthing him. Think of all the energy she could throw at McCain instead.

Barbara From Hazleton, Pa   April 22nd, 2008 2:57 pm ET

Jack, After weeks of Clinton and Obama slugging it out, neither owes anything to the other. Obama or Clinton will not concede to a second place finish.

Caryl - CT   April 22nd, 2008 2:58 pm ET

Jack I think the winner owes the looser nothing.
This is America and the winner is just that and Free to choose their own compatible running mate. It should be an individual that we (the Voters) can feel sure will carry on with the winners plans for our good.
What we don’t need are two people each with their own agenda.

Kevin Leo (Jonesboro, GA)   April 22nd, 2008 2:59 pm ET

Clinton needs Barack far more than he needs her! She brings far too much baggage and negativity to the table which goes directly against the core of his campaign and support. I could see offering her a cabinet post to appease her supporters while not angrying his supporterrs too much. This does not even factor in the Bill factor, who would go around shooting off his mouth without thinking first. No sir, don’t need that kind of nonsense!!!!!

Liz   April 22nd, 2008 2:59 pm ET

Jack,
Thats a very bad idea. People would vote for him but not her as some don’t really like her. She has a following who just can’t stand her or her husband and it would work against the democrats. Neither my husband or I would vote for her and would actively campain against her and we are republicans.

honkey white guy from cali   April 22nd, 2008 2:59 pm ET

Not only NO! but _ell! NO! give me a break I did not care before whom would win between the two now I have no respect for her at all she is a disgrace to the party.

Go Obama 08

John   April 22nd, 2008 2:59 pm ET

It would be the republican nightmare, but its more likely we would see a McCain/Clinton ticket then we would ever see an Obama/Clinton or Clinton/Obama ticket. Obama couldnt have her because of his message of change, and she couldnt get his supporters to back her because Obama supporters dont like the Clintons or the dirty politics they play. Lets not hold our breath on this one, it wont happen.

henry glenn   April 22nd, 2008 2:59 pm ET

They do not owe each other but rather they owe themselves the opportunity to do what is right to meet their needs and the common good. They have both cried out for a change in focus on what is important to average citizens. Although they have often exposed each other’s’ weaknesses they have both believed the Democratic Party must win the General Election for their proposed major change to take place.
If joining on a ticket guarantees a chance to win, then there is sure enough work for both of them to divide responsibilities and priorities and work in harmony as a team. Hey, “the best of both worlds”.

waltham, ma.

Peter in Alberta,Canada   April 22nd, 2008 3:00 pm ET

Jack,
I am not sure “owe” is the right word.
I think it is imperative, if by some miracle she would win, to consolidate his constituency with black Americans. I actually feel it is too late already for that to happen even if Barack were to (stupidly) accept a VP slot.
On the other hand, the last person Barack wants or needs as #2 on his ticket is Hillary Clinton. That would be suicidal from an ideological, political and credibility standpoint.

Thanks Jack - I really do like your Blog.

Michael Houston, TX   April 22nd, 2008 3:00 pm ET

Jack,

I am an avid Barack supporter who would gladly accept Clinton as the VP. Think about it, the visionary leader at the top with the attack dog running right behind. I don’t know about you, but Republicans look at that ticket along with this year’s political landscape and tremble. They realize that unparalleled vision , leaderhip, and tenacity is coming to your local neighborhood in January 2009!

Obama/Clinton ‘08

BOB   April 22nd, 2008 3:01 pm ET

Jack, well if Obama wins, you made it clear that you thought she should go home and bake cookies. So I guess my answer to this question is, no I don’t think either candidate owes the other a spot on the ticket. With that being said, I think Hillary would select Obama, however, I do not believe he would select her. He already has a woman in command of his house.

Sonoma, CA

Haliru   April 22nd, 2008 3:02 pm ET

I frankly dont thonk they owe eachother anything,Jack.If Obama picks Clinton, he would also be picking Bill Clinton and that is way too much baggage.Plus what Hillary has said about Obama will not let the run together

Patsy   April 22nd, 2008 3:02 pm ET

Both on the same ticket would be a dream come true. One can only wish. Patsy from Nebraska the Good Life

Chet   April 22nd, 2008 3:03 pm ET

I will feel so sorry for you if Obama doesn’t win and Hillary is the Democrat runner for President. No she doesn’t owe him anything and John Edwards would be a good choice. Maybe Obama for ambassador to Kenya if she should beat Mccain.
Mesquite Nv

Ron in Indiana   April 22nd, 2008 3:03 pm ET

They owe each other absolutely nothing. Actually, I take that back. Hillary owes Sen. Obama an apology for all the nasty and untrue things she has said about him and the undignified way she has treated him.

Kim   April 22nd, 2008 3:03 pm ET

Jack, It is evident that Billary and Obama are one in the same. What change does Obama really offer when the policies of Hillary and Obama are basically the same. Sure they each owe the other a spot on the ticket. It appears Hillary will be on the bottom and she knows it. This is the reason she is throwing the kitchen sink at Obama. It is just another love/hate relationship in politics.

Kim
Mulberry, IL

Jason, Brooklyn   April 22nd, 2008 3:03 pm ET

No. Hopefully, Hillary Clinton will return to her home state, whichever that is this week, after CNN calls the results tonight.

Allie   April 22nd, 2008 3:03 pm ET

Using the philosophy of keeping your friends close, but your enemies closer, then Obama could choose Hillary. But that would be a mistake.
Imagine the chaos and drama the Clintons bring with them where ever they go–not to mention the back-bitting and hidden daggers.
It would be like taking your loud, disgruntled mother-in-law on your honeymoon.

John Powalski   April 22nd, 2008 3:04 pm ET

After Hillary’s terrible behavior on the campaign trail, Senator Obama owes her nothing but a swift kick in the backside.

garrick   April 22nd, 2008 3:05 pm ET

Hi Jack
this would be a great ticket but she has destroyed that chance of being on the same ticket.plus if he wants to run again he shouldnt tie himself to her in case she fails in the White House like Chenney tied himself to Bush as losers
clearwater,fl

Jeff in Seattle   April 22nd, 2008 3:05 pm ET

Because of the scortched earth tactics of Clinton and the need to have the superdelegates overturn the voters for her to get the nomination, she would have to offer the VP spot to Obama, and he would have her presidential future in his hands by saying yes or no. But I don’t see Obama obligated to offer the VP spot to Hillary. He’d be better off picking someone like Jim Webb or Mark Warner.

Joe Nichols   April 22nd, 2008 3:05 pm ET

NO —- In light of events Obama needs to distance himself and his candidacy as far away from the Clintons’ as possible. HRC is completely wrong philosophically and practically.

In short, if Obama wants to win the nomination he can’t have HRC around.

Mark, Philly, PA   April 22nd, 2008 3:06 pm ET

I think when Barack Obama wins the nomination to the highest office in the land, the choice is his.

If Hillary won the nomination (no way), she would need Obama’s states in order to pull off a victory in the Fall.

Jeff   April 22nd, 2008 3:06 pm ET

Absolutely not. I think that for either candidate to choose their rival as a running mate would be the height of hypocrisy after the contentious nature of the past few months. They would lose all credibility, IMO.

b - silver spring, md   April 22nd, 2008 3:07 pm ET

NOOOOOOOOO!

John   April 22nd, 2008 3:07 pm ET

NO. she owes him an apology

Jennie   April 22nd, 2008 3:07 pm ET

HRC and the MSM have this narrative all wrong. HRC wants to show that her winning PA proves she is the stronger candidate and recently is asking “why can’t he close this out if he has all this money?” These are the wrong questions. She has been in public life for (repeat after me) 35 years. She and her husband have built a national political machine going back twenty years with organization, supporters and financing. The Clinton Brand has been the Democratic Party brand given that he is the last Democratic President. All of this is worth hundreds of millions of dollars that she has been spending in every state.

Barack Obama? Let’s use HRC’s and MSM’s narrative: an unknown person, brand new on the national stage, no experience, no organization, no BRAND, no DEM support, no money. But….in 15 months this unknown person has made it impossible for the BRAND CLINTON to close this out. So ask, who is the stronger candidate? One who, with 35 years of experience and 20 years of running a national juggernaut or an organization but is in second place or some unknown, brandless guy who in 15 months built the single most impressive organization, grass roots network and financial machine American politics has ever seen and has ridden that right into first place?????

Seems like HRC should have been able to wipe him many states ago (or using her new words obliterate) off the campaign trail but instead she is getting beaten by a rookie in the national political arena and fighting for her political life. It is easy to see the stronger candidate

The media in all fairness should start asking why hasn’t HRC closed this out? She’s the heavyweight fighting a bantam weight. Turn the narrative around to reflect what has actually happened..

Eric B. of Indianola, Iowa   April 22nd, 2008 3:08 pm ET

There’s a really heated battle going on right now, Jack. If there would be a dream ticket, there would have to be another battle on who gets what spot. It would just be the same thing that we’ve been experiencing all over again!

Aaron B.; Champaign, IL   April 22nd, 2008 3:08 pm ET

What happened to the good ‘ol days Jack, when the person with the most votes was named President, and the person with the second-most votes became Vice-President?

C. Farrell, Houston, Tx   April 22nd, 2008 3:08 pm ET

I don’t know whether Hillary or Barack owe each other a spot on the ticket. But maybe after we have a nominee, I think we should all take a vote to make the determination.

JIM LAGO   April 22nd, 2008 3:08 pm ET

JACK
Are you trying to be funny?? no way
Hilllary needs to fade away. Far Away—
lets see—never never land

John W, Minneapolis   April 22nd, 2008 3:09 pm ET

Hillary and Barack don’t owe each other a spot of VP.
Even though they have similar policies they are very different approach to accomplishing their goals. Barack will be the democratic nominee and having Hillary on the ticket will taint the ticket. How can he have Hillary on the ticket when she is all about taking money from PAC’s and lobbyists.

Anthony-Minneapolis,MN   April 22nd, 2008 3:09 pm ET

HELL NO! If he picks her I will vote McCain or not vote. She needs to fade into the political fabric of time

Sharon Minnesota   April 22nd, 2008 3:09 pm ET

If Obama choses Clinton, he has lost my vote! Clinton should go back to a supporting role in government and not a leadership role. She has been a disapointment through and through.

Uche, Brooklyn, NY   April 22nd, 2008 3:09 pm ET

How could they owe each other a spot on the ticket Jack? It’s an impossible feat to accomplish. What message would they preach to the American people? For one, Hillary represents everything about America politics and government that Obama loathes so much.
Secondly, can you imagine the heat in the kitchen of a white house that houses Hillary, Bill and Barrack?
You are asking the obvious Jack. How do you keep a wave upon the sand?

Jerry Wilson   April 22nd, 2008 3:09 pm ET

A “Hillary-Barack” ticket will help suppress the post election, anger, frustration, and bitterness. A “Barack-Hillary” ticket will do the same!Sorry abourt that “Hillary-Barack,” Jack!

Jerry Wilson

Gael Curry   April 22nd, 2008 3:10 pm ET

As I see it, Hillary simply does not believe in the values and principles of Obama’s campaign; she’d obstruct his agenda. Secondarily, Hillary is far too desperate to be President to make a good VP. My vote is no way. Take our chances.

Dennis from Albuquerque   April 22nd, 2008 3:10 pm ET

I think that neither of them would be good running mates. You need a good experienced man like Joe Biden, Chris Dodd, or Bill Richardson, any of which would have been a better, more electable president than these two.

Cynthia   April 22nd, 2008 3:11 pm ET

Absolutely not (I would like to say something different but I know it would not get posted)! Senator Obama’s instinct I’m sure is telling him to run not walk away from any notion of choosing her as his running mate. Just the simple lie that Senator Obama is race baiting is soooo far away from the truth. I see Senator Obama as a uniter.

Audrey, San Francisco   April 22nd, 2008 3:11 pm ET

No one should be “owed” anything in politics. That’s Hillary’s way of thinking.

When Obama wins the nomination, he should pick the person who is going to do the most to help him win the election and who is going to make the best Veep. If Hillary were to pull off a miracle and win, I’d expect her to do the same and would certainly not begrudge her that.

RJ in Florida   April 22nd, 2008 3:11 pm ET

Obama and Clinton is a dream ticket like Reagan and Ford was a dream ticket in 1980.

Gerry In Toronto   April 22nd, 2008 3:11 pm ET

Jack

Obama who will be the nominee, would never consider having Clinton on the same ticket. Obama doesn’t like ducking sniper fire-he deals with problems head on.

The rumor is Hillary will run for Mayor in Beebee, Arkansas. It’s a nice little town of 5,300, so she can probably intimidate each and every one of them to vote for her.

Just don’t move to Beebee.

Old Cowhand   April 22nd, 2008 3:11 pm ET

Por favor! The absurdity of the question is about as logical as having Jack Cafferty and Tony Snow on the same team.

Mike, Ohio   April 22nd, 2008 3:12 pm ET

Earlier in the race I thought no… But if you thik about it Jack, what demographic wouldn’t the two of them cover? Unstoppable ticket!

Bruce St Paul MN   April 22nd, 2008 3:12 pm ET

I don’t think they “owe” each other anything, but they would both bring something to the other’s campaign. It would be a unifying gesture, and since they agree in principle on most issues, they would be an effective campaign team. But if they are really the top two leaders in the party, do we want one of them to waste four years in an understudy position? Although Dick Cheney tried to make the VP into the fourth branch of government, I don’t think the next veep will wield that kind of power And Bill would have to be offered an ambassadorship in a faraway land, possibly even before the election.

Jamie   April 22nd, 2008 3:12 pm ET

No … and No means No! Did you expect three paragraphs on this question? Gimme’ a break Jack.

Bruce in Las Vegas   April 22nd, 2008 3:13 pm ET

Abso-flippin-lutely not, Jack. Have you lost your mind?

Their governing styles are diametrically opposed. Their personalities are like oil and water. It would be a disaster.

Billy G in Las Vegas   April 22nd, 2008 3:13 pm ET

IF Obama is the nominee, WHY would he want someone with the high negatives of Hillary Clinton on the ticket?

and secondly, if they DID WIN, would you want the modern version of “Lady Macbeth” a heartbeat away from your job?

Bill   April 22nd, 2008 3:13 pm ET

If Clinton gets the nomination, her husband will be the defacto vice president no matter who is on the ticket with her. If Obama wins, which is a near certainty, he will choose a vice presidential nominee who is actually qualified to take that 3:00 a.m. phone call Sen. Clinton keeps harping on.

Helen from Mifflin County, PA   April 22nd, 2008 3:13 pm ET

The implication of one candidate ‘owing’ another a spot is the current Washington way of thinking. I can’t imagine Clinton every accepting the number two place, and I shudder to think of Obama coming under Clinton’s wings so he can learn Washington politics. Let them earn the votes of the people for the first place slot and the one who doesn’t get that slot should return to their senate jobs until another opportunity presents itself.

John from Eugene Oregon   April 22nd, 2008 3:14 pm ET

Jack, in politics, as you know, you should never say never. This does not look like a match made in heaven but with politicians you never know.

Allen   April 22nd, 2008 3:14 pm ET

If it is going to put a Dem in the white house YES!

Charles in Florida   April 22nd, 2008 3:14 pm ET

Jack, H-E double Hockey sticks No! If Obama gets the nomination he should choose a VP that doesn’t speak Clintonese. However if Hillary steals the nomination, she better ask Obama to be her VP or there will be more you know what, than even the devil can handle.

Chuck in Eugene Oregon   April 22nd, 2008 3:15 pm ET

Jack,

Do they owe each other anything? Other than an apology for being ugly from time to time, the answer is NO. Honestly the only way it would work is if Obama was in the # 1 slot and Hillary would accept a # 2 slot; of course I do not believe Sen Clinton would accept a #2 spot just as I do not believe Obama would. Although they claim to be good friends, I think there has been too much said on both side (mostly from the Clinton camp), the damage has already been done. Although I am voting Democrat this year, I strongly doubt we will make it to the white house this time. The Democrats and their ego have done too much damage to the party already.

Adam   April 22nd, 2008 3:16 pm ET

Whichever nominee wins the primary contests, they need to sit down and have an honest conversation with each other and agree to put their disagreements in the past for the greater good. Barack/Hillary or Hillary/Barack apparently, according to the media is a “dream ticket” that will never happen, Nancy Paolosi has also said the same thing. It would be a shame if these two can’t put aside their ego’s for the sake of democratic unity in the fall. Howard Dean said it best, “We are the only ones who can beat ourselves.”

Adam
Conway, South Carolina

Paul   April 22nd, 2008 3:16 pm ET

The absolutely do not owe each other anything. Clinton thought this race was hers with little or no competition and Obama has defeated her and her campaign. Hillary does not belong anywhere near the ticket if she isn’t the nominee. She will be a negative weight on Obama when he is the nominee. The Clintons have more baggage than anyone in politics and Obama will have enough to deal with from the Republicans. The last thing he needs is more ammunition for the Republicans which the Clintons would drag along more than anyone out there.

Adam Mercer Oshawa, Ontario   April 22nd, 2008 3:16 pm ET

Jack,

Neither candidate really owes the other anything, and at this point I think they have shared the stage enough. To be truthful, as much as they seem to be very similar in their platforms, the reality is that they have thrown enough mud at one another that having them stand together on any stage singing each other’s praises would seem disingenuous to say the least.

It would make more sense for either candidate to offer the VP slot to Edwards more than it would to offer it to each other.

Sharon, Seattle   April 22nd, 2008 3:16 pm ET

Jack, there has been a profound massive movement for change. Adding a Clinton to this kind of momentum would kill it and kill the Democratic party.

All new registered voters, gone; all hope of any kind of new government, gone; any chance whatsoever to redeem ourselves in the eyes of the world, gone.

If people behind the scenes make this happen, I’m GONE from the Democratic party.

Stacy from Farifax, Virginia   April 22nd, 2008 3:16 pm ET

I suspect they already have a list of other possible running mates, such as John Edwards or Bill Richardson.
While they don’t owe each other anything, it would be a powerful ticket to beat.

Mickie in Philadelphia, PA   April 22nd, 2008 3:17 pm ET

NO, NO, NO - that’s a “no” by the way to Hillary. If she gets on the ticket even as Vice President, her and Billy boy will try to run things, just as Cheney does with Bush. NO MORE DYNASTIES PLEASE!

chryssa   April 22nd, 2008 4:11 pm ET

For the last time, NO.

Boise, Idaho
Obama ‘08

Jason   April 22nd, 2008 4:11 pm ET

Barack should offer and Hillary should say no. That way everyone saves face and if they were really smart, they would prearrange it.

Trinity, NC

Nikki, Ridgefield, WA   April 22nd, 2008 4:11 pm ET

No, no, no and NO. If Hilary is anywhere near a ticket, I vote for anyone else!

Daniel   April 22nd, 2008 4:12 pm ET

Yes, absolutely yes. Let’s just do the dream ticket and move on.

George Wilson   April 22nd, 2008 4:12 pm ET

If they want to win the Presidency they will have to form a co-op ticket, or half of the Dems will stay at home, or vote for McCain. This is good for the Party as it will unify it in almost an unbeatable situation. One thing i can say for sure, they are not like the republican Party who walk in lock step with each other, and don’t give a care for those who do not see eye to eye with them just like the last 7 years where Bush was the President for the republicans, and the rest were left in the cold.

Dorothy Kickasola   April 22nd, 2008 4:12 pm ET

Hillary and Obama would never work with the 500 pound gorilla in the mix - Bill in the White House with nothing to do.

Sunae, Jacksonville, Fl   April 22nd, 2008 4:13 pm ET

Not at all Jack they don’t owe each other a spot on the ticket as VP. I don’t want to see Billary on any ticket.

Anthony in Louisiana   April 22nd, 2008 4:13 pm ET

Cafferty, Clinton herself made it impossible for Obama to put her in the VP slot. She’s been more critical of Obama than McCain has, and all republicans would have to do is play a montage of Clinton’s quotes saying that McCain would be better than Obama.

Janet White   April 22nd, 2008 4:13 pm ET

A spot or a major appointment (Hillary to Supreme Court?). Being politically active, I know just how bitter this has become between the factions. They hang together or they could darn well hang separately. Hello President McCain.

lil   April 22nd, 2008 4:13 pm ET

No!

gloria walden   April 22nd, 2008 4:13 pm ET

Hillary doesn’t owe Obama Jack, Jack
Gloria Walden
Negaunee, MI

Victoria, Texas   April 22nd, 2008 4:13 pm ET

No. They don’t owe each other anything. Realistically after all that has been said, would any Democrat be able to cast aside their resentments and vote for the other candidate? I know that I would need a new set of teeth after grinding them together if I had to vote for Clinton.

Kat   April 22nd, 2008 4:13 pm ET

Can we stop calling it a dream ticket…at this point it might just be a nightmare to get them on the same ticket?!

Jerry   April 22nd, 2008 4:13 pm ET

Absolutely not!…Clinton would harm Obama’s cause!

JW - Georgia   April 22nd, 2008 4:13 pm ET

Nobody owes anybody anything beyond fairness to the taxpayer. I do know that if Obama puts Clinton anywhere near his administration I will vote for somebody else.

Monika Svay   April 22nd, 2008 4:13 pm ET

Obama, doesnt owe that Hillbilly clintons anything… Having them on his tickets would be a like having a ball chain to your ankle to be sink in the water… You know it, and i know it, that these two people do not like each other and lord please leave it at that…

Glenn   April 22nd, 2008 4:13 pm ET

YES

Michelle   April 22nd, 2008 4:14 pm ET

Absolutely not. I am a Republican but am a staunch Obama supporter. However, I would very seriously consider voting for McCain over him if Hillary were on his ticket. I want her nowhere near the White House again. She’s done enough damage.

Cathy Piller   April 22nd, 2008 4:14 pm ET

no

Debby   April 22nd, 2008 4:14 pm ET

The Senators don’t owe each other one darn thing. Hopefully Barack Obama will have necessary delegates to end this mess shortly. The Democrats have to look to Senator McCain and show just how wrong he would be for the country and it would be better to start in on the Repulicans sooner than later.

marnita lawrence   April 22nd, 2008 4:14 pm ET

No Jack, They don’t. It’s hard to see them on a ticket together when one wants change and the other is staus quo

Confused Democrat   April 22nd, 2008 4:14 pm ET

Yes!Yes!Yes?

Kelway from Boston, mass   April 22nd, 2008 4:14 pm ET

NO!!!!!… no, no, no… not after all the nasty dirty, right wing tactics Hillary has used on Barack Obama. NO!!!!!!!!

F. Franklin , Little Rock AR   April 22nd, 2008 4:14 pm ET

Obama…err I mean the nominee has a right to choose his or her own VP.

Obama/Richardson 08

Jason Kandola   April 22nd, 2008 4:14 pm ET

yes they have to if one of them wins both should lead as a team.History is going to be made times 2.

Venessa   April 22nd, 2008 4:14 pm ET

NO! Sen Clinton would only put a stain on the Obama’s ballot. He has earned the right to decide who he wants on the ballot as his second in command. Obama stands for a NEW politics and Clinton is more of the same old….

Leo   April 22nd, 2008 4:14 pm ET

I will not vote for any ticket that has Hillary Clinton on it. If I am faced with that, I will simply not vote at all.

Terri, Virginia Beach, VA   April 22nd, 2008 4:16 pm ET

Do they owe each other a spot? Absolutely not!! That would make no sense at all considering they talked so much trash about each other this whole primary season. Could you imagine the fights in the White House? They would constantly argue over who came up with what plan first.

Shereka   April 22nd, 2008 4:16 pm ET

Jack, I dont see how or why Senator Obama would put Senator Clinton on his ticket when he wins. Numbers dont lie and it is obvious Senator Obama is the likely nominee. I was a huge Hillary Clinton supporter. I’m also a first time voter. After watching the South Carolina democratic debate. I truly feel disgusted by Hillary Clinton’s negative attitude and her confirmation of what men have been saying about women as leaders throughout history.

stephanie/houston   April 22nd, 2008 4:16 pm ET

They don’t owe each other !@&*. Yet,inspite of their differences I feel they should kiss and make up for the good of the party, and the good of the country.

Kathy K from Boynton Beach, Florida   April 22nd, 2008 4:16 pm ET

She’ll need him, but he doesn’t need her, no does he need to feel obligated.

His message is one of hope, honesty and a better government.

Her message is that being unethical, lying and cheating are the only ways to win. And she wants the White House more than anything else… it’s not about the people, it’s about her own power.

Why would he want or need to add that kind of spirit to his message?

Brian D. Alger II, Ohio   April 22nd, 2008 4:16 pm ET

Clinton would bring Obama down on the ticket. I won’t even vote for him if she’s on the ticket, despite I believe in that man. It needs to be Obama and Edwards or Obama and Gore. Jimmy Carter should lead peace negotiations in the middle east.

Patricia   April 22nd, 2008 4:16 pm ET

OMG get real.
The president’s VP has to be someone with whom they want to work. He/she also has to be someone who balances out the ticket. Hillary would have to select a minority with actual experience. Obama would have to select someone a little bit old school with a background in economics or bowling, i.e., a white male.

Boise

barbara / NEW JERSEY   April 22nd, 2008 4:16 pm ET

NO if Obama wins he owes the Clintons nothing, they did nothing but hurt him throuhout the entire campaign. She is still insisting on getting Florida and Michigan on her side, and her calculations include them. Bad Math on her part. Maybe she’ll pull the crying act again for sympathy, she a good actress

Jeff Jones   April 22nd, 2008 4:16 pm ET

They don’t owe it to each other…they owe it to America to offer the best possible ticket for positive change in this country. It’s not about their personal feelings, good or bad, it’s about what WE want. WE want both!

non-believer   April 22nd, 2008 4:16 pm ET

Absolutely not. Assuming Obama is the candidate he should have a running mate that has the same goals as he. We need new and committed leaders to turn this country around. Clintons are not those leaders i.e. past history of Bill Clinton’s presidency and Hillary Clinton’s years in the senate.

Benjamin (La Crosse Wisconsin)   April 22nd, 2008 4:16 pm ET

Without a doubt they need each other and the party needs them together. Together they bring some of the biggest and most passionate bases recent politics has seen. These two on the ticket together is just the bandaid the party, and the country needs. If they do not join forces we risk an old, out of touch, angry, third Bush president who doesn’t understand the economy and has no problem staying in Iraq for 100 years.

Wilner   April 22nd, 2008 4:16 pm ET

I think that it would help clinton to have Obama on the ticket. but it would be more benificial for Obama to have Edwards as his Vice because he can help Obama more on the White male issue and is more positive than Clinton is with less negativity.

Katherine   April 22nd, 2008 4:16 pm ET

I don’t think they owe each other anything, but I do think that having a joint ticket would be a great idea. I think the most important thing right now is to get a democrat back in office. Clinton and Obama need to set aside their differences and disagreements and have a joint ticket. It’s the only way they canbeat John McCain in November.

Thomas Rogers   April 22nd, 2008 4:16 pm ET

Senator Clinton definitly owes it to Obama for the Republican type of campaign being run by them, but Obama does not owe it to her at all and he would be making the biggest mistake of his campaign if he picked her.

Angela   April 22nd, 2008 4:16 pm ET

Jack,

The country is divided between these two candidates, so yes: Each of them owes it to the other to add them to the ticket, IF they expect to win. If Obama wins, Clinton supporters will feel angry enough to stay home if he doesn’t add her to the ticket. I know I will.

Angela

Jonathan   April 22nd, 2008 4:16 pm ET

Absolutely not. In fact, if Clinton were to somehow get the nomination and offer the VP slot to Obama I hope he would politely decline. Obama is a leader that the US desperately needs now or in the future. Serving under Clinton would likely destroy his political future as he would be tainted by the sure to arise scandals and political quagmire that would ensue. (point in case: see Colin Powell)

Peg   April 22nd, 2008 4:16 pm ET

No one “owes” anyone. However, if the Democrats want to win; it is best to consider a ticket with both of them.. No question it would be an unbeatable ticket. The greater good is truly what is important..

Jedda   April 22nd, 2008 4:16 pm ET

NO NO NO. Hliary’s base = Kathleen sebelius, kansas gov. base. Barrak/sebelius icket is far more appealing that Obama/Clinton ticket

Judith, Green Bay WI   April 22nd, 2008 4:16 pm ET

Absolutely not. Furthermore, if the DNC honchos think this split in the party will be healed that easily they are sadly mistaken. These wounds run deep and make each candidate’s supporters wonder if this party really represents who they are.

Dennis   April 22nd, 2008 4:17 pm ET

NO NO NO , I’m glad this is a family show.Obama don’t need her. She would under mind him every step of the way.

Lisa Jones, Des Moines, Washington   April 22nd, 2008 4:17 pm ET

Yes, I still believe in the dream team. A black politician, a white woman politician. THIS IS HISTORY…..

Len   April 22nd, 2008 4:17 pm ET

Not chance. Obama winning the nomination is inevitable at this point, anyone who has a basic understanding of math can see that. Hillary represents everything Obama is campaigning against; old time insider backroom politics.

Phil   April 22nd, 2008 4:17 pm ET

The Dems could lock up the presidency for 16 years if Hilary and Barak have the good sense to work a deal on the ticket. My vote would be a Clinton/Obama ticket based on Clinton’s experience which far exceeds Obama’s experience. Mc Cain will win the presidency if the Dems don’t make the deal.

I’ll abandon the Dems if they fail in this election!!!

Jim, Cary NC   April 22nd, 2008 4:17 pm ET

Absolutely not. Considering how close they are on the issues, no democrat should consider voting for McCain out of frustration.

Steven   April 22nd, 2008 4:17 pm ET

If you think past all the differences and all the pettiness. Look at the greater good. What is in the best interest of the human race. The greater good suggest the answer is YES!

Andrew   April 22nd, 2008 4:17 pm ET

Barack Obama is the nominee, barring the coup-by-superdelegates that Hillary hopes for, and is the only viable way that she can achieve the nomination. She has proven that she will pander to anyone, say anything, and belittle anyone it takes to become President.
Formerly, I would have been satisfied with either of them as the nominee, but I am now convinced that Hillary is dangerous, and should not be elected to any office whatsoever. She deserves no position from anyone, especially not from Barack, whom she has called substance-less, and whom she continually says is less qualified than John McCain to be President. If she’s anyone’s Vice Presidential nominee, she should be McCain’s.

Andrew,
Tennessee

Bruce Marshall   April 22nd, 2008 4:17 pm ET

No Jack they don’t owe the other the second spot on the ticket. And who would Obama get to go down into the sewer to ask Hillary? Her plan is working, she will make it so hard for him that he can’t win. And she will say see I told you so.

Jim Morrison   April 22nd, 2008 4:17 pm ET

Definitely not! Neither the Party, the Country, nor either candidate would be well-served by teaming up. Obama should win the nomination and would be disadvantaged by taking on the Clintons’ (yes, plural) baggage. Should she manage to steal the nomination, she is most likely to lose the general election so Obama should simply wait and run again in 2012.
Jim
Scottsdale, AZ

eugene lewis   April 22nd, 2008 4:17 pm ET

If Hillary were to snatch the nomination from Obama’s clutches, she would have to at