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April 28, 2008
Posted: 05:20 PM ET

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FROM CNN’s Jack Cafferty:

They’re called “Hillraisers”…the people who raise the big bucks for Hillary Clinton’s campaign. And based on recurring reports of money problems–unpaid bills, personal loans from the candidate, etc.–she can ill afford to lose any of them.

But NBC news was the first to report that Gabriel Guerra-Mondragon who has raised an estimated $500,000 for Senator Clinton is leaving to join Barack Obama’s campaign as a member of his national finance committee. A formal announcement is expected this week. Guerra-Mondragon has reportedly become concerned about the increasingly negative tone of Clinton’s campaign.

He is a former ambassador to Chile who was appointed by President Clinton in 1994 and joins a growing list of Clinton people who don’t like what they see in Hillary’s campaign. New Mexico Governor Bill Richardson and former labor secretary Robert Reich both are supporting Obama.

It’s interesting to note that no one is leaving Obama’s campaign to join Clinton.

Here’s my question to you: What does it mean if one of Hillary Clinton’s major fund-raisers is leaving to join Barack Obama’s campaign?

Interested to know which ones made it on air?


Robert from Toronto writes:
Jack, if you look at the amount of people who have left the Clinton campaign for one reason or another for the past four months that should be more of an alarm to the superdelegates than any poll or news article. Hillary Clinton might say she’s electable, but her own supporters aren’t so sure.

Joe writes:
I believe Clinton’s arrogance is such that “If I can’t have it, neither can he” and people in the campaign are getting tired of it.

Jeremy from Williamsport, Pennsylvania writes:
It means as much as we are dismayed by the negativity coming from the Clinton camp, there are things going on behind the scenes that are so bad that even their closest and most loyal are saying, “I cannot get behind this anymore.” Where there is smoke, there is fire. If Obama doesn’t get the nomination, we’ll be forced to choose between an angry, foul-mouthed senator or one who is so negative that even her own people have turned against her. Obama doesn’t just talk about hope. He may represent our ONLY hope as a nation.

Ashley from Indiana writes:
It means absolutely nothing. Neither side will win or lose this race because of who is working on this campaign. The race will be decided by how people vote and I will bet most people won’t even know that this went on. Obviously a large number of Americans like both candidates seeing as how this race is going on and if you ask any of them to name more than two people who work on their campaigns they wouldn’t be able to do it.

Jeanne from Florida writes:
It means that a campaign strategist from Obama’s campaign offered something more substantial after the election than the Clinton campaign had offered. Many campaign strategists are professionals who will move on after the election, but others hope to snag a little “west wing” action after the election.

Ron from San Diego writes:
Maybe he got offered better pay and benefits?

Filed under: Barack Obama • Hillary Clinton


Jay   April 28th, 2008 1:53 pm ET

Well I hope it helps Obama. Hillary has the luxury or having Bill who draws big crowds and Chelsea. She is able to be in 3 places at one time. Obama doesn’t have anyone in his camp that can draw the crowds like those three except him. Bill is in Oregon working while Hilary is in NC and I know Chelsea is all over the place. I think Obama is doing well considering but he could use some help. I wish Edwards would endorse him and help him out as well.

Rosalynd Florida   April 28th, 2008 1:53 pm ET

It means what the people know and the Clinton campaign and the media are too delusional to admit: The Fat lady is singing and Clinton will have to pack it in after the May 6 results where she gets blown out in NC and looses IN.

Pat   April 28th, 2008 1:55 pm ET

He holds valuable information on the inside stuff, which she is trying her best to avoid-BUT-he apparently did not do very good for her, so not sure if this is a good thing, be careful,why he is changing!!!!!!!!!!
Denver, Co.
Pat

Elizabeth, Pgh. PA.   April 28th, 2008 1:56 pm ET

It means that there are still some members of Hillary’s campaign who
have a measure of integrity or are as tired as we are of the slash and burn tactics her campaign is using against Obama. I am beginning to believe that Hillary really wants to destroy Obama’s chances to become the Dems nominee. That would not be good for the country, to say the least,

Jan, Oregon   April 28th, 2008 1:56 pm ET

I hope that this is a good sign for Obama. What still concerns me is the endless media hype over Rev. Wright. Why do we have to cover it? Doesn’t seem fair to Obama. I hope that he will be able to rise above all of this and win both NC and Indiana… You know that I believe that Clinton gets three times the press that he gets: each time that either she, Bill or Chelsea does anything. Three for his one event.

DAD in Hollis, NH   April 28th, 2008 2:01 pm ET

It means he wants to be on the side of the winner like the majority of Americans at this point.

I heard an interesting item the other day. A mock newscaster was asking Senator Obama if he would be concerned if he won the nomination, beat John McCain to become P.O.T.U.S., and at the inauguration event Hillary was still running. Senator Obama was amused. I wonder if she would still run if Bill should join the Obama camp. On second thought it might help her.

Mike, Idaho   April 28th, 2008 2:02 pm ET

Jack , . . . It means that the people closest to Hillary Clinton know her
best. And that doesn’t sound good. Jack, you’re something else.

Bob, Indiana   April 28th, 2008 2:06 pm ET

Jack, Senator Obama has been by far the best organizer and fund raiser
of all the candidates. Hillary’s fund-raisers know that if she runs this
country anything like she ran her campaign, god help us.

Ron K.   April 28th, 2008 2:07 pm ET

Jack:

Maybe he or she got offered better pay and benefits?

Ron K. San Diego

Jim. NC   April 28th, 2008 2:09 pm ET

Jack, like several other Hillary supporters who have jumped ship, I think
that they are trying to tell us something and we had better listen.

David,San Bernardino,CA.   April 28th, 2008 2:09 pm ET

It only means that the fund-raiser thinks he can make more personal profit from the obama campaign.

Harold from Anchorage   April 28th, 2008 2:10 pm ET

It’s a message: “wake up and smell the coffee. Hillary. Better luck in 2012!”

Ronnie in South TX   April 28th, 2008 2:11 pm ET

It means there are more funds raised for Senator Obama than there are funds raised for Senator “Down Hill”ary.

Kevin Leo (Jonesboro, GA)   April 28th, 2008 2:11 pm ET

I think the writing on the wall is getting bigger and brighter each day! Obama in 2008!!!

At the same time, given the state of Barack’s finances versus Hillary’s, the fundraiser may be switching sides to learn how to do the job right.

Debbie,NJ   April 28th, 2008 2:13 pm ET

It means that the party is getting tired of the drama and crooked politics the Clintons play. Look out, there will be more leaving her campaign.

Joe in DE   April 28th, 2008 2:13 pm ET

Some people zig when they shoyuld have zaged. I would like to know the source of Obama’s money.

Vivian Fauntleroy, Largo MD   April 28th, 2008 2:13 pm ET

Hillary must be frying something in that kitchen that is about to pop all over God’s creation. Rather than get burned, the fund-raiser is taking HRC at her own words. He getting the hell out of the kitchen.

Esther Cuyahoga Falls Ohio   April 28th, 2008 2:14 pm ET

Why are they turning from the dark side? to be jedi knights of course Jack and free the republic for which we stand

Rob, Arvada, CO   April 28th, 2008 2:14 pm ET

It means Hillary’s ship is sinking and more than that, it sounds like some shady deals in her campaign fund-raising are about to get audited. If you knew dishonest tactics were being used, and you didn’t want to get prosecuted for it, wouldn’t you cash in your chips too? I find it curious that Mondragon leaves, during the same week as the bogus Obama donation websites are published in the news. On the surface it would seem he is backing the better candidate, but I believe something far more sinister is underway in the Clinton campaign.

Mark   April 28th, 2008 2:16 pm ET

It means he can do the math and see who the nominee is going to be.

Mark, Kentucky

Patricia   April 28th, 2008 2:19 pm ET

1st. Sen. Obama didn’t need this fund raiser. I’ve got a bad feeling about this Jack. What if this is a set-up to do damage to Sen. Obama? Sen. Obama’s staff need to check how & when against the books every day.
Patricia
Palmdale, Ca.

Taj   April 28th, 2008 2:20 pm ET

Does not mean much. Hillary is one tough kid. She can do it all. “Men may come & men may go, but Hillary will go on for ever”.
Obama Fan
Ca

AndyZ Fairfax, VA   April 28th, 2008 2:21 pm ET

This is yet another example of the media trying to manufacture the news. Who cares? There are thousands of accountants drooling over the chance to add Presidential Fund Raiser to their resume. Hillary will still receive contributions even if Lucky Louie from da Bronx is her chief fund raiser.

JoAnn in Iowa   April 28th, 2008 2:21 pm ET

Easy—everyone wants to be with the winner!!

Mecca   April 28th, 2008 2:21 pm ET

It means he left!
Mecca, Puerto Rico

Bob in Traverse City Mi.   April 28th, 2008 2:23 pm ET

Jack even rats know enough to jump off the ship when it’s sinking.

Shannon Wadding, St. Paul, MN   April 28th, 2008 2:25 pm ET

People know when to jump on the cliche bandwagon when people try to save themselves. Like the rats abandoning a sinking ship, so too will the accountants, the advisors, and the friends of controversial candidates.

Tom from Boston, Mass.   April 28th, 2008 2:26 pm ET

There’s a famous expression: “Follow the money.” If the money is moving to Obama, so is the momentum. Sorry, Hillary, but you’d better start working on your concession speech.

Mark - Asheville, NC   April 28th, 2008 2:27 pm ET

It means that this person has other motives than beating McCain. Switching now from Hillary to Obama is NOT about winning in November, as it should be obvious to anyone who understands how the electoral college works, that Obama will never get to 270 against McCain, not even close.

So what does this mean? It has to do with some “inside baseball” type of issue, perhaps to promote the appearance of political correctness, who knows?

I suspect that fund raisers switch from Obam to Hillary as well, but it never gets reported.

Buck   April 28th, 2008 2:30 pm ET

It means this race has gone on too long; as evidenced by the fact that the major networks have nothing more interesting to report.

Brian from Fort Mill, S.C.   April 28th, 2008 2:30 pm ET

How many Judases can Hillary stand? I suppose that, if Hillary were Jesus, then half of her disciples would be named Judas!

Maybe we should all start donating thirty pieces of silver each to the Obama campaign to speed things up!

Faith, PA   April 28th, 2008 2:30 pm ET

That the major fund raiser is not smart enough to see the writing on the wall. Mr. Obama is not qualified to be President nor does he have the values most Americans look for and the tide is changing.

Sharon   April 28th, 2008 2:31 pm ET

Sounds like Hillary is running out of money and people are defecting. Poor Hillary,,, and then she has Bill to contend with. I wonder if she is taking 2 Excedrins now days to curb all her headaches. Barack won’t debate her, people are leaving her campaign, Richardson defected, and her campaign is in shambles. Be glad when this is over with.

sandy in Ohio   April 28th, 2008 2:33 pm ET

Jack, Ithink it just goes to show that even the Hill raisers are not stupid, they can do the math even if the Clintons can’t. I’m not just talking the delegate count but the math in general. Look at how the Clinton campaign finances have been run and then think what that means for the country if she were to win. I shudder to think! Maybe that Hill raiser feels the same.

Doug from Bloomington IN   April 28th, 2008 2:34 pm ET

No too much. We tend to not like the money people anyway. It would be interesting to know who it is.

Fluffy in Lovelock, Nevada   April 28th, 2008 2:36 pm ET

It means the buck stops over there.

DaN H Panama   April 28th, 2008 2:36 pm ET

Rats leaving a sinking ship.

Brian in the evergreen state!   April 28th, 2008 2:36 pm ET

I do not want somebody running this country that cannot run their campaign. Period.

Peter, Kentucky   April 28th, 2008 2:37 pm ET

It means other realistic people who want a democratic candidate to win will follow. “If you cant beat them, join them.”

Bill, Quarryville, PA   April 28th, 2008 2:37 pm ET

I think it means you have serious problems with your campaign when people start jumping ship and going to the other side. Especially when it is one of your major contributors to your campaign.

marylee atlanta,ga   April 28th, 2008 2:40 pm ET

It means stay tuned Jack … They will all be jumping ship in the days to come.

Courtney, South Windsor, CT   April 28th, 2008 2:42 pm ET

Apparently, this individual just wants to feel successful for a change…

Mimi in Chicago, IL   April 28th, 2008 2:42 pm ET

It means that one of Hillary’smajor fund-raisers is leaving to join Obama’s campaign.
It is what it is - let’s not make it into something it’s not.

Bernard   April 28th, 2008 2:44 pm ET

This is a lot more significant than the poor association of jeremiah wright and the views of Barrack Obama. If pastors, priest and reverends could influence parishoners, there would be no need of prisons in this or any country. Intelligent, independent minded people do not follow what their pastors says. The people who think that Jeremiah Wright would be the sole influence of a person of Barrack Obamas stature need to think again. It is ludicrus indeed.

Jamaal   April 28th, 2008 2:45 pm ET

That means someone in the Clinton Campaign Actually has a Brain and Knows what is good for the Country and the Democratic Party

Mary in CT   April 28th, 2008 3:25 pm ET

It means that fund raisers are mercenaries who tend to go where they can bet the most personal gain….shocking though that may seem.

A Kraft   April 28th, 2008 3:44 pm ET

that they know she is toast…we all know that..only Hillary does not know that

Mike Calif.   April 28th, 2008 3:47 pm ET

Hi Jack
Because these people are privy to alot of information that we aren’t I would call it a warning.
Mike

mary-linn Mtl, Can.   April 28th, 2008 3:48 pm ET

Means, she have to pick some money from her pocket again…

Jack Martin   April 28th, 2008 3:48 pm ET

Jack

More people will be leaving Mrs Clinton’s campaign. When a candidates campaign begins to develop the odor of a Karl Rove it is time to leave. To think that the people who are advising her are getting a huge salary for their poor advice boggles the mind. It also makes one think that they will be the same people getting appointed to advisory posts if she wins and that is scary!

Jack in Boynton Beach FL

Mark   April 28th, 2008 3:48 pm ET

I think it is significant when people very close to a candidate “defect.” Because they are so close to a given candidate, they are privy to a lot of things that your average American is not. And just why would they “defect?” They see something that they don’t like; they see something that is very wrong with the candidate. And I think many (more) Americans are beginning to see a LOT wrong with Hillary. It will be interesting to see if the “defection” rate increases.

Mark in Minnesota

michael   April 28th, 2008 3:49 pm ET

jack
anybody donate for hillary clinton, did they ask themself a question where is her 109 milion dolars came from, put your money in pocket and bet with me better, obama win indiana by 5 points nc win by 10%5 point, Do you want to bet?

Jayne   April 28th, 2008 3:49 pm ET

Oh, where is the love, Jack? It means Obama is not getting much. He’s just getting a disloyal fund raiser. Besides, $500,000 is squat money for a major campaign. I’m just simply unimpressed.

Jayne
Charleston, SC

chryssa   April 28th, 2008 3:49 pm ET

Once again, headlines reflect what we’re seeing on the ground. People are unhappy with the way Clinton has run her campaign, and whether they donate three dollars or half a million, they’re leaving her for Obama.

Boise, Idaho

alexa, Lovettsville, Va   April 28th, 2008 3:49 pm ET

Politics is just like any other business, people change jobs, their is no “company loyalty” to employers or employees anymore. Why should politics be any different. Besides seems to me Clinton has done alright in the fundraising department since PA. Most of this money came from new donors on-line which all the big gun fund raisers have little contribution to. The bigger question is why does Obama need another fundraiser since it is being reported that is coffers are overflowing?

wally rehmann in las Vegas   April 28th, 2008 3:50 pm ET

it means he didnt want to wait around a couple more weeks for his layoff slip. jack its rough out there being unemployed nowadays isnt a good thing,unemployment checks dont buy much gas or eggs. i wonder if Hillery will give his a going away gift ?

Ralph, Long Island, NY   April 28th, 2008 3:51 pm ET

It means the end to Clintons as a national power. Hopefully sooner rather than later, although the shrill should continue for a while.

Jean from orlando   April 28th, 2008 3:51 pm ET

It means that Hillary’s campaign camp realizes the uphill battle she has and it’s impossible for her to overtake Obama unless the ” Not SO Super Delegates” steals it for her. At the end of the day none of this willmatter after the May 6 primaries, since she won’t have a choice but to give her farewell speech.

Brad, Amarillo TX.   April 28th, 2008 3:51 pm ET

Ever heard the one about the sinking ship? Only this time the rat is staying on board and the sailors are leaving. Her Lie about Bosnia her Incredibly mean spirit and Knife Fighting politics are driving people away in droves.

C. Farrell, Houston, Tx   April 28th, 2008 3:52 pm ET

The Clintons tax return of $100 million in earnings is enough to make anyone rethink funding her campaign.

Greg   April 28th, 2008 3:52 pm ET

Jack Clinton is running a Republican Campaign in a Democratic Primary. Even stated that if this were the Republican Primary I would already be the nominee. Obviously some Democrats see the Carl Rove tactics she is using in her campaign and decide to take the high road. If she fancies Republican tactics and primary rules maybe she should go back to her Goldwater days and switch parties.

Greg
Glen Burnie, MD

Brian, Buffalo, NY   April 28th, 2008 3:55 pm ET

People are starting to wake up to the fact that Hillary Clinton is not Bill Clinton. He is not the one running for President this time around. He doesn’t need to, nor does he need to be Prince Consort.
Ambitious politicians have a nose for defeat and know when to cut their losses. It is, after all, business as usual in the Clinton camp and not the place for people with a conscience.

Lesa from TN   April 28th, 2008 3:56 pm ET

Hi Jack,

It means that the school yard bully is losing important friends. She wants to fight Obama in a debate like an after school fight without teachers (moderators).

The bullying isn’t paying off and somehow she’s losing friends because they don’t like her tone and being on her side will make them look just like her. Integrity is the key and her old friends, now Obama supporters is moving over to the other side of the playground.

Kristi from Indiana   April 28th, 2008 3:56 pm ET

It means that common sense may prevail after all. Of all the devisive tactics that the Clinton campaign has used against Obama at least the power of reason hasn’t been lost on those who may impact the primary most of all, the Super Delegates. Hillary may get the voters who are swayed by race issues but in the end, intelligence will win out! Her campaign is just now raising money from small donors after the PA win. I think that sends a clear message that people are only voting against the black guy! Obama didn’t even need this “big money raiser” because well over one million average citizens have made small donations that have put Obama in the record books!

Pearl Indiana   April 28th, 2008 3:58 pm ET

To me, It means they woke up to her deception, and have finally decided to help a candidate who seems very sincere and doesn’t like to attack his opponent unless he is forced into it,

Greg in Leavenworth Kansas   April 28th, 2008 3:58 pm ET

Guerra-Mondragon might be concerned about the increasingly negative tone of Clinton’s campaign, but his departure from Billary’s camp to join Obama’s campaign just shows that the end is near (for Hillary) and he (G-M) wants a job/position next January (G-M sees the writing on the wall: he wants to be on the winning team when the dust settles and he wants to be employed by President Obama).

Bell-ID   April 28th, 2008 3:58 pm ET

I guess he didn’t hear that Obama is opposed to business that hire illegal immagrants, opposing the decriminalization of marijuana, and the Cuban embargo. Ofcourse those were all flipflops. Someone should tell him.

Joe TN   April 28th, 2008 3:59 pm ET

Nothing, It Just show’s who runs for the money,but the money won’t get my vote,,Hillary is much better Off by knowing her enemy’s,and her back stabers……… that what makes her the best one running!!!Obama is in BIG ….TBL> NOT KNOWING

Nicole, California   April 28th, 2008 4:00 pm ET

Obiviously this gentleman sees the difference between winning and leading. Clinton’s campaign has been playing Rove politics for months now and her group will continue to focus on the demographic political tactics that come from divisive politics. Truth is we can’t move forward as a country with this political climate. It is time for political climate change one where we put America first and the needs of individual groups aka (special interests) last. Fact is Clinton doesn’t know politics without special interest involvement. Clinton has been pandering to one group after another and not paying her bills.

Maria, Byron Center MI   April 28th, 2008 4:00 pm ET

Just another Traitor!

Ken @ Charlotte   April 28th, 2008 4:00 pm ET

Jack,

It means Gabriel is smart enough to spot a loser and cut her losses.

Jerry   April 28th, 2008 4:01 pm ET

Jack

Is it a rumor that Bill Clinton is thinking of jumping ship and
joining the winning Obama team, so he doesn’t have to keep
carrying the torch for the Clinton legacy.

Jerry
Roselle, Illinois

jason   April 28th, 2008 4:04 pm ET

It means that there is one more sellout. Does this surprise anyone ?

Will Ash, NM   April 28th, 2008 4:05 pm ET

It means Clinton is theoretically campaigning for McCain at this point. She can’t win without 2/3 of the vote (even from the superdelegates). The longer she goes on, the better McCain is in polls, having no one to challenge his policy.

If McCain is elected and continues the current economic policies, I fear we may be looking at a depression by the end of his term. Is Hillary really going to hold up the McCain ‘08 sign?

Sharon Minnesota   April 28th, 2008 4:07 pm ET

It means, like most accountants, money is the driving factor in their decision making process. Evidently, he wasn’t in it for the good of society or it’s posterity or he would have stayed with the candidate who has the best plan for America’s future.

tim from pa.   April 28th, 2008 4:07 pm ET

come on jack, you know the answer.the fund raiser has seen the light.why put money into a bad investment.she will probably spend the money on beer, pants suits and a bulletproof vest for her next bullet dodging trip.

Mary - Santee CA   April 28th, 2008 4:08 pm ET

It means that someone out there sees her for what she is, just another smear, smear campaigner. I only hope that those that continue to support her will wake up to what she is really about. Hillary Clinton will do anything and everything in her blatant grab for power. She and her husband have had this on their agenda for years, another presidency for the Clintons. Those that continue to support her please check out her record and her associations before the first Billary presidency and her sudden dramatic shift from the FAR left and trying to present herself as a compassionate liberal/conservative. She can change her stand faster than a cameleon to achieve power.

Eddie , Tucson, AZ   April 28th, 2008 4:08 pm ET

It means Hilary is toast and she cant even afford enough butter.

Kevin Hemp   April 28th, 2008 4:09 pm ET

Jack, it the hand writing on the wall. It started with Richardson.

garrick   April 28th, 2008 4:10 pm ET

hi jack
when all this started i also was for Hillary,but just like the people around Bush have been leaving him.Hillary has made her ratings so bad just like Bush now everyone wants to distance themselves and thats why she has lost my vote to.If she got the nomination i would stay home in Nov.
clearwater,fl

Mike from Syracuse NY   April 28th, 2008 4:10 pm ET

Jack, it means that most of these political weasels want to be on the winning side. Why else would there still be 300 undecided superdelegates? HRC has had many defections of former supporters and ‘friends’, becasue they perceive that Obama will win. No one wants to be left arranging deck chairs on the Titanic.

juice-Canyon Lake   April 28th, 2008 4:13 pm ET

Well he said the reason for leaving was because he didn’t like her tactics in the campaign. Good for him; join the millions of others who don’t like her tactics either. What a devisive person Hilliary is and she has really snokered some into thinking she is the best candidate to beat John Mcsame!

Paula Cicchiello   April 28th, 2008 4:34 pm ET

Jack Cafferty’s comment that Obama should run Hillary Clinton over with a flat bed truck is unwarranted and uncalled for. What type on human being makes such comments? Mr. Cafferty should not be allowed to make such deadly comments. He is the most bias commentator that CNN has working for them.

Greg form Mechanicsburg PA   April 28th, 2008 4:34 pm ET

By itself, the leaving of Guerra-Mondragon would not mean that much. The fact that Bill Richardson and Robert Reich also left makes this important. These are three members of the Clinton inner circle, their loyalty runs deep and they would not make the decision to support Obama lightly. This defection can be seen in Hillary’s falling approval ratings and the high percentage of voters that believe she is not trustworthy.

Thomas Dyar   April 28th, 2008 4:35 pm ET

Of coarse NBC reported it first. They are Obama’s national campange headquartes arn’t they? He couldn’t have been that great if is responsible for only 1/2 mil. in fund raising. That is about 20% of what she raised in one day this month. Your twist on the story is not suprising. You are so Obama blinded you can’t see clearly. If you want to be seen as a “news person”, you need to shap up. If you want to be biased thward Obama, just say so. SO SO SO. Do you also support the REV. Wright’s religious teachings??
Thanks
Thomas Dyar
Shreveport LA

Kevin in Georgia   April 28th, 2008 4:35 pm ET

Jack, Nothing!! Obama will lose in the Fall to McCain because his baggage is much more damaging than what Hillarys’ toting behind her!!!

Mary   April 28th, 2008 4:37 pm ET

I think any support for Obama is positive, no matter where it comes from. Go Obama!

Carol in Durham Maine   April 28th, 2008 4:38 pm ET

It is interesting that those who have worked closely with the Clinton’s are defecting to Obama. Apparantely they know something they are unwilling to articulate out of professional courtesy.

Hillary apparentley likes to throw things at staff when angry( a former Clinton staff mentioned on a political talk show) . so why would anyone want to support her type of management?

The more upclose and personal people are with the Clintons it seems the more they run away. Why hasn’t the media noticed? ( One Exception … You Jack)

Jane - WI   April 28th, 2008 4:39 pm ET

The fact that a Clinton fundraiser is jumping to Obama says to me that there are many opportunistic people out there. It’s interesting how many people jump on the bandwagon when it looks like that bandwagon might be a winner.
Could that be why Bill Richardson endorsed after it was clear that Obama might win? Could Gov. Richardson be looking towards his own political future?

Jo Ann Scott, Bland, VA   April 28th, 2008 4:41 pm ET

i won’t vote for Obama either. If he is the candidate, my husband
and I will not vote.

Les Young Oklahoma   April 28th, 2008 4:42 pm ET

And someone said we were running short of bright people, he know it’s a lot easier to raise money for Obama.

Dilibon Kojak   April 28th, 2008 4:42 pm ET

Jack wait until Obama wins both NC and Ind to see the rush to Obama camp! Obama will nto be as nice as he is now to Clinton when facing McCain. Mccain has more baggage than most peopple think! Any sportman should know that a team out of competition for long loose its sharpness and ability to compete effectively! The domocrats will come with the Operation AWE against McCain! He better keep his heart and blood pressure pills ready!

Marta K-Florida   April 28th, 2008 4:43 pm ET

Yes, now why don’t you media types do a full, in-depth interview with Gabriel Guerra-Mondragon and ask WHY….instead of your usual speculating and soundbites.

Brian - Trinidad   April 28th, 2008 4:44 pm ET

Lets see now,a former Ambassador,i.e.no longer on the taxpayers’ gravy train sees an opportunity by joining the inexperienced Obama.Now who do you think is first in line for an Ambassador’s post if Obama gets elected?I thought Obama was not going to practice the same old tired Washington politics.Old saying,the more things change,the more they stay the same.

stan   April 28th, 2008 4:44 pm ET

When it becomes clear to the rest of her campaign staffers that they are all being used by a ruthless politician who cares absolutely nothing for them, their families , the democratic party, this country, she will continue to suffer major losses, hillary has fooled us all enough!!!

Jerry in Ohio   April 28th, 2008 4:44 pm ET

Maybe he defected because he doesn’t want to raise Illegal money like Hui (??)…the Hillary fund raiser that is now in Jail for fraud (but he raised how many $MILLIONS for Billery?? Oppss…or was that Travelgate? or Whitewater?…or the person that gave Hillary the advise, when she bet $1000 in cattle futures and made $100,000 in less than 72 hours?

L.M.,Arizona   April 28th, 2008 4:44 pm ET

I don’t think big donaters going to Obama means nothing. I think what is important is that I am going to donate $100.00 to Clinton after donating approximately $200.00 to her campaign already.

Dave, Virginia Beach   April 28th, 2008 4:45 pm ET

If they are paid fund raisers it means they would like to see a paycheck, since they probably have not been paid by the Clintons. For all her talk about fixing the economy, she is neck-deep in unpaid bills and spending money she doesn’t have, and we’re supposed to put her in charge of the nation’s checkbook? Even if those Staffers were working on faith, it is probably tough to see first hand how low the Clinton’s can go to get the nomination.

Mary- Louisville, KY   April 28th, 2008 4:46 pm ET

It means, Jack, that Hillary is not the experienced leader who will be ready to take charge on “day one”. Guerro-Mondragon is not the first Clinton staffer to defect or be fired since her “coronation” turned into a boiling pot. Not only did her leadership abilities, if they were ever present, disappear under the pressure of the primaries but her own behavior has deteriorated rapidly. I can’t believe that anyone thinks she could run this country.

Grace   April 28th, 2008 4:47 pm ET

I can’t blame Mr. Obama for not wanting to go into yet another debate with Mrs. Clinton. To use his words “enough is enough”. She’s run her race to the White House game into the ground. I believe I am only one of millions who do not want to see Slick Willie back in the White House ! She says she will wear the pants in her Administration, but if you believe that, I have a piece of swamp land I’ll sell you cheap !
If she does become the Nominee, we’ll wind up with two presidents: one female who gets emotional, and another with a “to hell with you people, I’m back in the house and will do whatever I want attitude”
Dear Lord, spare us. We don’t need a disfunctional First Family in the People’s White House.

Curtis   April 28th, 2008 4:48 pm ET

I don’t think she cares. I have come to believe the Clinton campaign is negative for one purpose. To destroy any chance Obama may have to become president. She is running again in 2012. What she fails to realize is she destroys any chance she may have in any year along with Obama’s campaign.
The luster of the Clinton presidency has rubbed off revealing a made in mean sperit base.
Curtis
Oxnard, CA

Sunae, Jacksonville, Fl   April 28th, 2008 4:51 pm ET

Jack it means that the writing is on the wall for Hillary. Nobody really wants to back her financialy. Her Health care plan is the worst. I will not pay this government any type of penalty if I can’t afford health care. If I don’t get a health plan that means it’s not affordable. I think the Government should pay for health plans, but wait they can’t can they? I guess not if were in debt up to our eyeballs to China.

Chantal Fom Hampton VA   April 28th, 2008 4:55 pm ET

Can’t blame him for jumping ship. Her campaign has poorly managed their funds, kinda like the Busch Admin. The overall campaign is a disaster. She’s still in this race because NO one has the guts to tell her that it’s time to go back to the Senate. As for the news media, this is all great ratings for you all.

Stefan   April 28th, 2008 4:55 pm ET

I hope the cynic in me is wrong but a switch at this late date usually means they are trying to ride the coattails of the winner before it is too late to save face. If Guerra-Mondragon is sincere in his assessment that Hillary and her acolytes have too negative for him to tolerate good for him. It is refreshing to see another Clinton “friend” tracking the sentiments of the public, not kowtowing to the supposed power brokers.

Stefan
Hoffman Estates, IL

Don Blue Springs, Missouri   April 28th, 2008 4:56 pm ET

It doesn’t mean much of anything to me.

Mary - PA   April 28th, 2008 4:56 pm ET

It means he has a brain and he’s jumping ship before it sinks.

Meagan- Balt., MD   April 28th, 2008 4:57 pm ET

It means Hillary and her bleary-eyed supporters are the only ones who don’t realize that nobody likes a bully. Hillary has made a name for herself by bashing Obama and one by one her campaign is falling apart because of it. I think this is a major boost to Barack’s ego and will help him to pick up some momentum he has lost while being beaten down by both Democrats AND Republicans.

Candace   April 28th, 2008 4:57 pm ET

It means, Jack, that they would be realizing that to go down the Clinton path would only lead to internal struggle and the demolition of the DNC resulting in a Republican win. They need to send her the message that it is okay to let the better man win.

Steve in Pensacola   April 28th, 2008 5:01 pm ET

Jack, I think it probably indicates that he feels the the same as most Democrats that I know, that “enough is enough”. The kitchen sink is so full that it’s backing up and starting to develop a rather unpleasant aire. Dem’s in my circles are opting to get out of the kitchen. And it’s not the “heat’ that we can’t stand.

yiayia from lutz fl   April 28th, 2008 5:02 pm ET

Jack maybe it means hillary and bill will be next to crossover to obama

Gary   April 28th, 2008 5:02 pm ET

Jack,

This lastest defection of Clinton supporters can only mean one thing.
They must know something that we don’t!

Gary
Riverside, Ca

Roland   April 28th, 2008 5:03 pm ET

It is significant because it demonstrates that the Superdelegates who are changing to endorse and now the money-raisers know that the race is over. The only one who doesn’t know they have lost is Hillary Clinton! We already have a president who is clueless; do we want to elect anotherone who can’t read the writing on the wall?

Vicky   April 28th, 2008 5:04 pm ET

Jack ,what it means is they offered him more money. Why try to make this into something it is not

Taj   April 28th, 2008 5:04 pm ET

Loyalty, Loyalty where is the ball? The ball is rolling down the slope to join the ocean. That’s what all rivers do.

Dan   April 28th, 2008 5:05 pm ET

Jack, it’s simple, it means everyone but Hillary can see the writing on the wall. The campaign is over. Let’s put it this way, if the roles were reversed, and Hillary had the delegate lead, more than twice the states won, and more of the popular vote at this stage, the media and pundits would declare the contest over. Somehow, the media sees a shield of invincibility around the Clintons and can’t fathom the fact that this race has been over for a while now.

Alan, Buxton, Maine   April 28th, 2008 5:07 pm ET

It means that like so many others he has finally come to his senses. Hillary is becoming more and more desperate and will resort to any underhanded scheme she can devise to bring Barack down. She does not understand the concept of trying to become the best candidate. She only knows the tried and tested way of bashing each other until finally only one is left standing. That way we can vote for the least bloody and offensive candidate instead of the best one.

Charles NJ   April 28th, 2008 5:07 pm ET

Jack, Again you distort the picture in favor of Obama. Many of Obama’s supporter have also supported Clinton. You only gave us half the story. Just take a look on Huffingtonpost to see which big money celebrities and the like gave the maximum money to both candidates, along with the other democratic hopefuls. It’s called carpetbombing to insure a democratic candidate.

Linda...california   April 28th, 2008 5:07 pm ET

Just what Obama needs…more money to BUY more votes. What is wrong with this picture? Spend more money than anyone else and don’t answer any questions about who the heck you are. Obama who are you…really…who are you? Why has asking a candidate to explain who he is suddenly such a huge invasion of privacy? Hillary Clinton has been scrutinized from day one are not ALLOWED to know WHO Obama is? In a time when people are struggling to get by how the heck is Obama continuing to collect so much money? How about an accounting….

naknudson   April 28th, 2008 5:07 pm ET

It simply means he or she is a traitor but its irrelevant anywy Obama doesnt stand a chance no matter how much he spends. He has been outspending Hillary all along didnt do any good she is still running a close race.

Ruby Coria, LA. CA.   April 28th, 2008 5:08 pm ET

Jack, it mean that money talks, and everyone is jumping on the wagon so they can get thier at the end. You know how the Gov. works and Obama is part of that gang.

Bodo from Ann Arbor   April 28th, 2008 5:26 pm ET

Campaigns are like horse races. People invest in a horse only because they hope it wins. No chance of winning — no more money. It’s as simple as that.

MIKE A, CHARLOTTE,NC   April 28th, 2008 5:26 pm ET

it means i wouldn’t want him in my foxhole.

janice carroll   April 28th, 2008 5:26 pm ET

I wonder how many will jump Obama’s ship should Hillary win NC and IN. Hmmm.

Janice Carroll
San Juan Capistrano, CA

doon in California   April 28th, 2008 5:29 pm ET

ahh…duh….maybe their finally waking up and smelling the overburnt coffee? She’s a divider, a desperate woman who will say and do anything for the nomination and I can’t wait to see her next move. Obama has already turned down her attempt at another debate, much to the relief of most of us. She’s unacceptable, on every front, and the real eye-opener was all of this time, I for one thought it was Bill. No so. Maybe the reason behind so many other women afterall.

nancy in colorado   April 28th, 2008 5:29 pm ET

Oh please, the only reason Hillary wants to debate is because she is losing… that’s what all the losers do every election for free publicity! Don’t waste your time with her, Sen Obama -

Barb Gardner   April 28th, 2008 5:29 pm ET

Well at least one person sees Clinton for the loser she is.

Linda Bergthold   April 28th, 2008 5:30 pm ET

Having a Clinton fundraiser leave to support Obama is not new. It’s been happening steadily. It just tells me that people finally know how to do the “math”. Hillary cannot win unless she causes a revolution in the Democratic party. And while she is a competent and impressive candidate, most of us do not want her to be our revolutionary leader!

Gayle Jacksonville, Illinois   April 28th, 2008 5:30 pm ET

Jack, I don’t trust this person who is making this switch. I think this person may be a plant to find out information about Obama and how he does things. He/ She may be Hillary sent, Hillary is not honest or trustworthy, I can see her doing something like this. Obama should not accept this person to be a part of his team.

Shafi Alam   April 28th, 2008 5:30 pm ET

It’s a clear sign. Hillary’s boat is sinking for her negativity. It’s a big deal. Governor, labor secretary and now ambassador, all during Bill Clinton administration getting some favor from Bill have left Hillary. Last two of them have mentioned critically about Hillary’s negativity. Supporters of Hillary, to be safe please have the wisdom to jump on the Obama boat before Hillary’s boat really sinks in the middle of the ocean.

Pat- Florida   April 28th, 2008 5:32 pm ET

jumping ship is how Clinton’s camp and her aides put it..

and well put it is..

Sadie   April 28th, 2008 5:33 pm ET

I think we have heard enough of debate, Hillary is to negative she is trying to up set Obama with all of the negative talk she is afaird becaus she is loosing and she will try anything to get ahead to destory him, she no her change for president is over beside her husband will run the white house if she did win, he been in the spot light to much any way it like he was running for president he had his time and he mess it up ,Bill go fly a kit. and Rev. Wright is not running for president. I thing this should stop.

Sadie
Baton Rouge.La.

Jim T - Alaska   April 28th, 2008 5:37 pm ET

hillary and her camp are blowing so much heat in her kitchen that people in her camp cant stand her anymore, in other words - a lot of smack talk - full of bull. when obama is being sworn in as president, hillary will still be running

Jo   April 28th, 2008 5:38 pm ET

It means little. The man just went for more money. That’s all. Anyway $500,00.00 is not that great a sum. It that’s all he can raise — who wants him!

Really, there should be a ceiling on money spent by each candidate for political races anyway. Just because someone has more money to spend, that does not make him the best candidate and money should not choose the candidate either.

Tracy   April 28th, 2008 5:41 pm ET

I cannot speak for others who have left the Clinton camp for Obama’s, but can voice the reasons that I did. I have a difficult time with cut-throat politics. Clinton was my hero for standing up and taking the challenge to become the first female President.

I took issue at the way she smiled in Obama’s face during each of the debates, then turn around and sang a different tune once she was in front of her supporters. When the level of disrespect and mud-slinging began, I had to step down and RUN to the other side.

Personally, I think a great many of us are tired of the OLD ways of doing things. Frankly, Hillary is starting to sound more and more like John McCain. It is TIME for a change, time to stop hitting and scratching “fellow Democrats” with low blows and cheap shots and time to start thinking about what and how WE are going to fix all of the issues we have in our own back yard! Sooner or later one of the candidates is going to need the other to continue rallying the troops to defeat the Republicans. I don’t know about you, but I have a difficult time trusting anyone who is consistantly stabbing and jabbing (for their own gain) when my back is turned. It just sounds like “the same old politics” to me.

Tracy S.
Littleton, CO

T H beyer   April 28th, 2008 5:42 pm ET

It means this important fundraiser has seen the light of a bright
new American spirit in the form of a brilliant leader named Barack
Obama. And , does America ever need such hope …after the battering
of our democracy inflicted by the Republicans!

Sadie   April 28th, 2008 5:43 pm ET

Your comment is awaiting moderation.
I think we have heard enough of debate, Hillary is to negative she is trying to up set Obama with all of the negative talk she is afaird becaus she is loosing and she will try anything to get ahead to destory him, she no her change for president is over beside her husband will run the white house if she did win, he been in the spot light to much anyway it like he was running for president he had his time and he mess it up ,Bill go fly a kit. and Rev. Wright is not running for president. I think this should stop.

Sadie
Baton Rouge.La.

Tracey Compton, CA   April 28th, 2008 5:44 pm ET

It means nothing because it is OBAMA . The Clintons are like Democratic Gods. Hopefully, Dems will see this attack on Obama is to keep the Republicans in charge.

NObama   April 28th, 2008 5:46 pm ET

People who want to have a job in the next administration are having to align themselves with whomever they think might get elected. If this man is stupid enough to think that Obama can get elected, then I am glad he is off of Hillary’s team.

Donelliottz   April 28th, 2008 5:46 pm ET

Jack,
let us all be very sincere with ourselves, are we surprised? NO. The gospel truth is, people are just sick, tired and fed-up with her campaign, her negativity and the heavy lies she tells everyday in her campaign to voters.

She probably will want to debate me too just to get my vote. All these goes to show how desperate she is. She thinks the office of the presidency is her birth-right and will do anything to get it.

My question is, how is she able to deceive and lie to all these voters that fail to see throgh the walls or they are not just doing their homework as voters? What a desperation shame.

June W   April 28th, 2008 5:47 pm ET

Sounds like a cue for a song “Anoither one bites the dust.”

Fred T. Black   April 28th, 2008 5:48 pm ET

It behooves those near her to avoid being in the sights of the snipers.

CHURCHILL   April 28th, 2008 5:48 pm ET

Hillary is running around like a Chicken without a head. She has the Clinton name recognition which by the way is a huge adavantage that many in the press ought to understand. The fact that Obama is doing this well is a clear sign that he is a winner for America.
I admire him and wish all the best.

Mike Lewis   April 28th, 2008 6:21 pm ET

Jack,
The resignation of the Clinton campaigners, and subsequent joining of the Obama campaign would equate the resignation of say Colin Powell, Donald Rumsfeld, and John Ashcroft from the Bush administration to join the Democrats.
-Mike
Clearwater, FL

Bill in Idaho   April 28th, 2008 6:22 pm ET

I think it shows that people are growing weary of supporting lies, misstatements, negativity and the monarchs right to the thrown. Not everyone enjoys throwing the kitchen sink!!

George Graham   April 28th, 2008 6:22 pm ET

I am surprised that more supporters aren’t “distancing themselves” from Senator Clinton. My wife, Sandra, and I used to admire her very much, but as we have witnessed the transmogrification she has undergone during this campaign, we have lost all respect for her. She has become an extremely poor role model for the young women of America, and we no longer believe that she deserves to be the country’’s first-ever woman President.

Robbyn   April 28th, 2008 6:22 pm ET

Sounds like a great therapuetic case of abandonment. She is constantly running people away from her. I think she needs to cut her losses and try to regain the respect of women and minorities. Hiliary is showing her true stripes. It’s not the first time that someone near her ran to the other side (i.e, Bill). It’s a shame that it had to come down to this for Hilliary. She is obviously a very intelligent woman but has a difficult time losing. If she steps aside now she may be able to return to her job in New York. New Yorkers should be very nervous. They get her back. OOOHHH SCAREY.

stella pope   April 28th, 2008 6:22 pm ET

Leaving Hillary’s campaign justifies the man still has amnesia on Bill Clinton’s legacy of “no deficit”, and besides, he is still in the infatuation stage with Obama. Let’s face it, Hillary’s change to our country’s problems will win respect internationally for Americans. And Hillary Clinton’s plans on improving our economy will give the middle class and the poor a big win in November. What’s wrong with voters is that they need to take their blinders off . We need a woman in the Oval Office!

Doug   April 28th, 2008 6:22 pm ET

It must mean that they are get 2-3-4-beat rev wright was talking about last night.

Erica   April 28th, 2008 6:22 pm ET

Jack,

It brings to our attention the huge divide Clinton is causing and the huge divide she will cause if she is elected as President. She has already divided Democrats, and, as you mentioned, those on the fence have fled to the Obama camp. Yet we must all acknowledge that Hillary, unlike Obama, is one of those people that you either hate or like, and as a candidate who is hated by the entire Republican party and part of the Democratic party, she will never unite our country.

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