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June 18, 2008
Posted: 02:20 PM ET

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(PHOTO CREDIT: GETTY IMAGES)

FROM CNN’s Jack Cafferty:

Barack Obama and Hillary Clinton are set to appear together next week in Washington – side-by-side – for the first time since the long and sometimes nasty primary battle came to an end. It’s an important moment, since some Democrats are still bitter about the way it ended.

The two will meet to try to get some of Clinton’s top contributors to support Obama. Some of Clinton’s supporters say that fund-raisers have complained because they don’t think their concerns were being heard during meetings with the Obama camp. The donors apparently want to make sure Obama knows he needs to help Clinton pay down her campaign debt – estimated at more than $20 million – if he wants their support.

Other Clinton backers steamed that Obama hired ousted Clinton campaign manager Patti Solis Doyle to be the chief of staff for his eventual vice presidential nominee.

And, more tensions boiled up yesterday at an Obama rally when former Clinton supporter and Michigan Governor Jennifer Granholm mentioned Clinton’s name, and drew loud boos from the crowd. Obama shut that down and made very clear to the 20,000 people at the rally that Senator Clinton deserves respect.

Aides say Obama and Clinton have not met or spoken since that private meeting in Washington a couple weeks back, but the campaigns are reportedly cooperating as Obama gears up for the general election. One Clinton fundraiser suggests there’s no rift and it will just take some time to heal from the primary.

Here’s my question to you: What do Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama need to do in their first joint appearance to unite the party?

Interested to know which ones made it on air?


Donna from Colorado Springs writes:
I think that Obama and Clinton need to back off for a while and let things cool off. The sore losers that belong to Clinton need to get over their anger and logically look at the alternative. Is it really worth having another 4 or 8 years of Bush by voting for McCain?

Susan from Pennsylvania writes:
If Obama’s campaign wants Hillary’s people on board, they need to get over themselves and not be vindictive. Nobody put up with more abuse from all sides than Hillary. She got a lot of votes. Votes that Obama needs. So respect her for the fight, for doing what she did for women of all ages and welcome her people with open arms. He’s going to need the help.

Dan from Phoenix writes:
Hillary got in debt without help. She should now pay her own bills and Obama should not contribute anything. In regard to her own ego, she has helped destroy the party, and Obama should just ignore her.

Emma from San Jose, California writes:
Focus extensively on the negative effects of Bush and McCain’s policies. Also, Hillary should encourage her supporters to refrain from voting for McCain.

Erica from Texas writes:
Hi Jack, I think the best way for them to show unity is to come out with Bill, Chelsea, Michelle and the kids all holding hands. Then Senator Obama should give Hillary a kiss on the cheek and a hug! She needs one!

Patrick writes:
Unite. The Democrats unite. Surely you jest! Remember this, “I belong to no organized party. I am a Democrat”.

Filed under: 2008 Election • Barack Obama • Hillary Clinton


Mark, Oklahoma City   June 18th, 2008 2:06 pm ET

I think at their first joint appearance they should give each other the “fist bump”. But, let’s hope Hillary actually aims for Obama’s fist.

Caryn, Washington DC   June 18th, 2008 2:07 pm ET

Clinton should apologize for badmouthing Barack during the primaries. I know that it will never happen but I had to watch Rudy Giuliani say “Even Clinton thinks Obama is naive and inexperienced” I hope she can dig her way out of this.

Mark - Asheville, NC   June 18th, 2008 2:10 pm ET

They could urge the super delegates to nominate Biden or Edwards, with Webb as VP. This ticket would win upwards from 40 states in November, rather than lose to McCain, which will happen as things stand now.

That would unite the party AND cause a complete shakeup of the DNC!!!

Dwayne (Atlanta) GA   June 18th, 2008 2:11 pm ET

Considering the damage she inflicted on him during the primaries, I don’t think much can be done. She was being truthful in during the Kitchen Sink War in berating him at every turn. A great deal of her supporters will never back Obama, so their joint appearance won’t change too many opinions

Frank from Peterborough   June 18th, 2008 2:12 pm ET

When they make a joint appearance they should come armed with all of John McCain’s policies and positions on all the issues. This should include both positions he has taken on many of these issues.

There isn’t anyone, with a modicum of intelligence, that will consider voting McCain unless they are raking in enormous profits from the war and/or their corporate interests.

Then they should highlight McCain’s voting record including going against giving veterans a decent bill of rights after serving one hitch just to bully them into re-enlisting. The women’s issues he voted against should shed some light on many of Hillary’s supporters not to mention his insistance upon appointing extreme right wing justices.

The only problem is to do all this properly they will need at least a half day at the podium.

Kristen- Philadelphia, PA   June 18th, 2008 2:13 pm ET

Jack first Hillary must somehow get a personality change. Currently she just somehow always brings whatever she talks about back to her and her accomplishments. To unite the party she needs to not be allowed to use the words: I, me and my 18 million voters. If she can get on the Obama bandwagon and start talking about all Americans then this party can unite (I hope).

Ray Kinserlow   June 18th, 2008 2:14 pm ET

A big hug would be sweet and helpful.

Ray Kinserlow
Lubbock, Texas

ross G Rerflands, CA   June 18th, 2008 2:20 pm ET

Pay each Registered Democrat 50k before November. That should do it.
The media and advertisers are making a mint, why not the voters?

Don Bezler   June 18th, 2008 2:23 pm ET

Jack,I don;t think it makes ENY DIFFERENCEif Hillary joins Obama
or not think he will beat McMush 3 To 1 without HER..

Terry from North Carolina   June 18th, 2008 2:25 pm ET

Jack
Based on Barack Obamas last few appearances where they booed Hillary, that tells me there isnt much Hillary can do to bring in her supporters and try and unite the democratic party. If I was Obama at this point I would not depend on the Clintons for much of anything.

Jim Cape Coral, FL   June 18th, 2008 2:25 pm ET

Jack,
I think the democratic party is uniting more and more every day, you can look at the most recent polling and see that. If Obama and Clinton continue to remind America of the complete incompetance of our current President everything else should just fall in line.

Jayne in NH   June 18th, 2008 2:26 pm ET

The onus is on Senator Clinton to bring her most rabid fans back to reality. She must get it through their thick skulls that a vote for McCain would set the women’s movement back 40 years. She must also reinforce the fact that her positions and Obama’s positions are nearly identical. We’re not voting for the American Idol in November. Lives depend on this vote.

Michael Smith, New Orleans   June 18th, 2008 2:26 pm ET

I think if Hillary took a giant step backwards in the Democratic limelight, the party would unite around Barack Obama. That seems to be happening anyway since the nominee was decided.

Independent   June 18th, 2008 2:29 pm ET

Clinton and Obama can unite the party by running on the SAME
TICKET!

Hillary as the VP.

NOTHING ELSE would please the majority of voters — and the Dems would have the election in the bag!

Tom, Avon, Maine, The Heart of Democracy   June 18th, 2008 2:29 pm ET

By the time any of that oil would come into the system, we will probably have found clean energy alternatives and not want it, or we will be so far down the road of climate change we’ll be dealing with the consequences and even George Bush won’t be using fossil fuels.

Terry in Hanover County   June 18th, 2008 2:31 pm ET

Here’s what they should NOT do: dap, bump, hug, kiss, dance, sing, or bowl.

Tom in Desoto Texas   June 18th, 2008 2:31 pm ET

If Obama helps her retire her debt she’ll help him. For help pay off $20 million dollars she ought to show him a lot of love.

Jonathan, Hartford, CT   June 18th, 2008 2:32 pm ET

After talking some time off and watching the Rookie sqirm, I think that if he asked her to be his running mate to unite the party, she just might tell him to take a hike and do one of three things, wait until 2012, start her own campaign, or accept the job as John McCain’s running mate. If Hillary ran with McCain, they would take it over……all in the name of unifying the country. Expect the unexpected.

Rose   June 18th, 2008 2:34 pm ET

She could officially get out of the race and give her delegates to him. That would be a symbolic change.

Bill from PA   June 18th, 2008 2:34 pm ET

It’s simple Jack, she should join the Republican party.

Barb   June 18th, 2008 2:35 pm ET

I think Hillary could do less and get out of dodge. She sucks all the attention away from Barack which is not appropriate.

Barbara   June 18th, 2008 2:36 pm ET

They can come up with ideas that will be appealing to women.

Linda in Virginia   June 18th, 2008 2:36 pm ET

The party will unite and I hope it will unite better than “The Corporate States of America”, err United States of America.

Carol   June 18th, 2008 2:36 pm ET

I don’t think it is Sen. Clintons and Obamas to unite. It was the DNC and the super delegates who fractured the party. If they had waited till after the people had a chance to vote, with no biases put out to sway the vote, we would not be a fractured party to day, In my opinion. So that is why I’m voting against the Democrat party and not Sen. Obama. If we the people can have our wishes over turned by the supreme court or super delegates then our votes are in vain. As one American I’m tired of the way both parties have became. Maybe it will open the eyes of our people to no longer vote for party but for issues. My feeling is the war trumps the economy and I prefere a military experienced candidate with knowledge to use the best military minds to end this War.

Carol Oregon

Howard   June 18th, 2008 2:37 pm ET

Both Clinton and Obama are Senators in a congress that does nothing; she can start writing bills that Obama wants passed under his administration and start passing them even if it means President Bush signs them in to law. If he speaks of them on the camping trail the American people will know the truth. These two have been trying to become the Democratic nominee for president not representing their states it time one of them does their elect job and get this nation back on track.

pro-choice wins   June 18th, 2008 2:37 pm ET

I don’t know Jack,

Hillary’s supporters are so miserably bitter that they would rather have abortion become illegal and be in Iraq endlessly rather then see Hillary’s rival for the nomination become President.

Hillary’s supporters may have to explain to their granddaughters someday why a President McCain took away a woman’s right to choose- all because they let their bitterness mess up their minds.

Adrienne, Miami, FL   June 18th, 2008 2:37 pm ET

Well Jack, Hillary helping to campaign for Obama might help. On the other hand, the numbers are all moving in Obama’s direction like they normally would after a contested primary - while the Clinton supporters backing or threatening to back McCain may be very vocal, there aren’t very many of them.

At the same time, there are a ton of independents that like Obama, but aren’t interested in having Hillary Clinton hang around or maybe get a spot in an Obama Administration. At this point, Obama needs to move on - he can’t spend all his time kissing up to disgruntled Clinton supporters, and he doesn’t need to.

Larry, Ohio   June 18th, 2008 2:37 pm ET

Jack,the best way is for her to endorse the Obama/Biden ticket!

Ray,Florida   June 18th, 2008 2:37 pm ET

Leaving Bill home might help!

Pablo in Arlington Texas   June 18th, 2008 2:37 pm ET

Jack

remember Will Rogers famous aphroism. “I don’t belong to an organized political party. I’m a Democrat.” It isn’t up to Senators Obama and Clinton. They have to set the example of comraderie and solidarity, but it’s us ordinary frontline citizens that have to decide to do what’s right for the country instead of sulking in our tents.

Pablo

Jasmine in Germany   June 18th, 2008 2:38 pm ET

Senator Clinton needs to show some geniune respect.

Mitchell in NJ   June 18th, 2008 2:38 pm ET

What do Hillary and Barack need to do?? Why, just stand there and not be McBush.

Peggy, St. Louis   June 18th, 2008 2:39 pm ET

Obama needs to announce that Hillary will be his running mate!!

Michael In Maine   June 18th, 2008 2:40 pm ET

Jack,
I don’t believe Obama or Clinton need to do anything to unite the party. The party will unite itself now that the primary race is over and sour grapes have warned off. Obama will choose Webb, Richardson, or James Jones as his running mate. Webb sews up Virginia, Jones sews up Missouri and Richardson would take New Mexico out of McCain’s column (making it a 10 point swing state). If McCain were to lose any one of Fla., Penn, Ohio or Mich. it becomes impossible for him to get enough electoral votes to win. The chance of him sweeping all four of those swing states is next to impossible. “It’s the math stupid!” Something Hillary couldn’t ever figure out until it hit her over the head.

Lynn   June 18th, 2008 2:41 pm ET

Jack - Obama should go back and be a Senator and learn that job before he becomes President. Maybe in 8 years. He was a Senator for 1 year before he started running for the Presidency. Qualifications: experience - need not apply. Would a company hire a CEO with 1 year experience. Of course not.

Jeremy. Boston, MA   June 18th, 2008 2:41 pm ET

They BOTH need to tell their supporters that the primary is over and that it was never acceptable for Democrats to exchange in such mutual disrespect and vitriol.

Having said that, while it is understandable for Clinton supporters to still be raw and hurt because they lost, it is disgusting and verging on unforgivable for Obama supporters to continue being so spiteful and petty.

There is only one thing worse than bad losers and that is bad winners.

W   June 18th, 2008 2:42 pm ET

Why should he pay off her debt?!?!? She blew her own money on a campaign that couldn’t be won! The Clintons are obscenly rich…Let them pay it off themselves rather than blackmail Obama…

TerryDo   June 18th, 2008 2:42 pm ET

Why should Senator Clinton want to unite the party, after the way the DNC, the RBC and the media vis George Soros treated her run for the presidency; I don’t think she should raise a finger to help them.

Since all of Obama supporters keep claiming they do not need Hillary Clinton, good I say, then let him unite the party on their own.

Visit and join, Puma.com

Tom - Virginia   June 18th, 2008 2:42 pm ET

Jack -

Sure they can unite the party. It already shows in the bump in polls in FL, OH & PA. It takes time to get over a loss. The policy differences between Hillary and Barack are minimal compared to McBush.

Hillary will be a very powerful voice for healthcare reform in the Senate and other issues she has championed. Now that Teddy is getting older, we need her now, more than ever.

To all those Hillary supporters, take your time, but in the end, the choice is clear progress or 4 more years.

C. Farrell, Houston, Tx   June 18th, 2008 2:42 pm ET

Hillary and Barack need to take a trip to Mars and back and upon return discuss what a great experience they had together.

Tina (Texas)   June 18th, 2008 2:42 pm ET

The women who wanted Hillary want her as 2nd best which would be V. P. and she needs to go out and start campainging for Obama and not be so bitter and Bill needs to apologize to Obama for his stupid remarks. He sounded like Bush when he opens his mouth and stupid comes out.

Kiah from MD   June 18th, 2008 2:43 pm ET

Jack why are you asking the same question that was asked at the beginning of this month. Hasn’t it been answered in enough ways for even slow people to understand?

Obama ‘08!

jeff, Indiana   June 18th, 2008 2:44 pm ET

hey jack. ive got an idea… they could hold hand with howard dean, nancy pelosi, and harry reid, and sing a rousing chorus of Kumbayah. that seems to be the dems answer for everything from foreign policy and national security to environmental issues and the economy.

Alan in Florida   June 18th, 2008 2:45 pm ET

To get the party united in Florida I think Barack Obama,Hillary Clinton and other big name supporters of the Democratic Party move into Florida and throw their support to “ALL” the state Democratic Candidates. If they shows that the local candidates is as important to move our county forward, then local Democrats might unite.

Dave in Astoria   June 18th, 2008 2:46 pm ET

Would a “terrorist fist bump” be inappropriate?

Matthew, Philadelphia, PA   June 18th, 2008 2:46 pm ET

Obama’s supporters can start uniting the party by not booing the mere mention of Hillary’s name. Until they start showing her the respect she deserves, her supporters will continue to resent them and their candidate.

Nuwan Sam   June 18th, 2008 2:47 pm ET

Create a win-win situation. Become a team. Play as a team. She has reached so many Americans, more than any other VP candidate that Obama may consider. Hillary will help Obama regardless whether he picks her up as VP. But that goes not give any real momentum for Hillary or her supporters to go out of the way and help Obama.

Nuwan from Houston, TX

Brian   June 18th, 2008 2:48 pm ET

Simple really. Democrats just need to think, “Do I want Bush for another 4 years?” Uniting will be easy that way.

Ron In Texas.   June 18th, 2008 2:49 pm ET

Jack,
I don’t know what they should do, but I do know they can’t, unless she is the veeep. I am one that will not vote for him if she is not the VP candidate.

Brian, Oakland CA   June 18th, 2008 2:49 pm ET

Simple really. Democrats just need to think, “Do I want Bush for another 4 years?” Uniting will be easy that way.

*Sorry, forgot to include where I was from.*

john marlton, nj   June 18th, 2008 2:50 pm ET

Jack, remember that big wet kiss Al Gore gave Tipper way back when? ……………

Lewis   June 18th, 2008 2:50 pm ET

No question - they need to keep the love flowing. It’s about the principles, not the individuals.

mitch martin arkansaw   June 18th, 2008 2:57 pm ET

it would help to have hillary supporters’ votes,but,barack should not pay her campaign bills,that she accumulated while attacking him,and harming his image with negative and expensive television ads.barack will get all the support he needs from us independents,who vote for issues,not candidates.

Julie, NY   June 18th, 2008 3:03 pm ET

I think Obama should promise to work with the DNC to make the candidate selection process open to all Democrats, not rich, young men who can spend two hours at a caucus.

Sunyaré - Detroit   June 18th, 2008 3:03 pm ET

In their first joint appearance, Obama should present a 20 million dollar cheque to Clinton — kinda like the oversized ones given to lottory winners. That will do the trick.

kim portland, oregon   June 18th, 2008 3:04 pm ET

jack, i have NO idea. hillary’s so-called supporters seem adamant about betraying her and her democratic party.

JC from Plugerville, Texas   June 18th, 2008 3:08 pm ET

They need to stick to the issues that they have been talking about for a long time and let McCain continue to open his mouth and insert both feet. Time will heal a lot of the wounds but not all of them because some people love letting other people live in their head rent free as it gives them the excuse to blame others for their own lack of ability to accept things that they can’t change.

Susan   June 18th, 2008 3:09 pm ET

They can unite the party by Obama picking Hillary for the vice president position. The two can pull their supporters together and win more states……and beat McCain. It’s as simple as abc.

Obama/Hillary 08

RJ from Pennsylvania   June 18th, 2008 3:10 pm ET

Barack should say to Hillary, if your supporters vote for me in November (she has to do all that work), then I will pay off your campaign’s debt. Easy as that!

Ryan, Champaign IL   June 18th, 2008 3:10 pm ET

They need to do a “terrorist fist jab”. That will get the right-wingers shouting their nonsense again, and remind all Democrats who the real enemy is.

Warren, Detroit   June 18th, 2008 3:10 pm ET

Me: I hear a lot about “uniting the party”. I am also nauseously aware of Obama’s platform of change, including changing Washington politics. Wouldn’t “uniting the party” oppose his platform of change?

Coworker: Shhh! Don’t talk too loud you might let the secret out.

Peter E, Boulder, CO   June 18th, 2008 3:11 pm ET

He could start by publicly apologizing for all the personal attacks his supporters hurled at her.

Paulette Dallas,PA   June 18th, 2008 3:11 pm ET

They should come out together,meet at the 50 and shake - as any classy coaches do. The final whistle blew and now is time to prepare for the General election. It would certainly help if Obama asked Hillary on stage to be his VP. With this gesture McCain will have to put the rocking chair on the porch in Arizona.

SZ   June 18th, 2008 3:18 pm ET

He’s leading the party now. It’s his job to unify it, not hers.

PUMA

Josh, AR   June 18th, 2008 3:19 pm ET

Jack I know you’d love to see more of Hillary Clinton on the campaign trail, but in my opinion Obama would do best by keping her busy passing out those adorable little lapel pins somewhere.

mitch martin arkansaw   June 18th, 2008 3:21 pm ET

clinton can leave the country.obama will do just fine.the only people still bringing up hillary’s “unfair ouster”,is rush limbaughnuts.

Cynical   June 18th, 2008 3:23 pm ET

People keep saying they want Senator Obama and Senator Clinton to run as a joint ticket. However, I am cynical and I wonder if that is what people want to happen or if they are using as a “smoke screen” as a reason to say why they won’t vote for him. If it really happened how many folks would seriously go in and vote for the joint ticket? I’ll believe it when I see it.

dennis north carolina   June 18th, 2008 3:23 pm ET

Show true unity in both camps so the people know that they are on the same line or same page.

Tren from Ypsilanti, MI   June 18th, 2008 3:24 pm ET

It would unite the party if Obama announces that if he is elected as POTUS, Clinton will be the Secretary of State. Just think about it, if she is VP Clinton be a mere shadow just as Cheney. But if she the Secretary of State she will be in the lime light like Rice is.

Tom from Boston, Mass.   June 18th, 2008 3:24 pm ET

It’s simple, really. Hillary has to make it clear that she lost and the best candidate won; admit that in the heat of the campaign she (and her husband) made comments about Obama that they don’t believe to be true; and do a very, very credible job of convincing her supporters - especially white women - that she is sincere in endorsing Obama and be adamant that they vote for him.

Of course the price for this will be Hillary swallowing her enormous pride and Obama swallowing her enormous debt. - no easy feat.

Cliff, Kroger ND   June 18th, 2008 3:24 pm ET

Clinton needs to take herself out of the race fully. Not as VP, not as the candidate in waiting. She needs to make it clear that the choice is between McCain and Obama, and that anyone who supported her views needs to support Obama if the election is anything more than a popularity contest.

Peter E, Boulder, CO   June 18th, 2008 3:24 pm ET

They could join forces and ask CNN pundits to stop ‘asking’ these polarizing ‘questions’ that are really nothing more than insults.

Obama Supporter   June 18th, 2008 3:25 pm ET

Carol, You make no sense to me. You are a Hillary supporter but you want to back McCain. Last, I Checked Hillary didn’t have any military experience either.

Sue   June 18th, 2008 3:26 pm ET

I will unite with Obama, too, if he will give me enough money.

Jaybrown NY/NJ   June 18th, 2008 3:27 pm ET

I don’t know Jack, Hillary drove the wedge in there so deep. As you can see from your blogs, a lot of her supporters on the blogs HATE Obama and are saying they are voting for McCain. The Republicans are using her video clips when she was bashing Obama as well. It’s going to be pretty hard to unite the party. There are specific things she did to drive that wedge the way she did, starting from her negative politics and adds to firing up Michigan and Florida and making it seem like Obama was the reason the votes where not going to count. And that’s just for starters. I don’t know Jack. I hope they can unite them some how.

alexa   June 18th, 2008 3:27 pm ET

If Obama wants to reunite the party he’ll have to seriously consider putting Hillary as his V.P.. Now we’ll see if the Obama supporters would have a fit. Either way, it should be interesting!! Get your popcorn ready Jack!!

Scott - Madison, WI   June 18th, 2008 3:28 pm ET

Maybe the media could do its part and stop perpetuating the divide in order to avoid reporting the real news and hard facts. You do realize that some of this discord is media created and driven just for ratings, don’t you? Isn’t this the same mentality sold to the public by the corporate media that numbed and dumbed down everyone - including the complicit so-called investigative reporters and journalists - prior to our invasion of IRAQ?! Hopefully most of America has grown up, evolved and developed its own independent mindset, but there will always be that part of me that has its doubts.

40+ In Suitland, MD   June 18th, 2008 3:28 pm ET

Only a Hillary and Obama Ticket will appease both sides. I believe Obama will win regardless, but the margin of a win would be much greater with her on the ticket and I am an Obama supporter. I think it would be in the best interest of the COUNTRY at this point. Personal feelings aside, four more years of this Republican ludicrousness has got to stop.

Max from CA   June 18th, 2008 3:28 pm ET

Barack, Hillary, partisans, get over it! As McCain has said, “I hate War”. But he knows it well and how to win at all costs. After eight years of GWB, the air is charged with a stench that only the fresh winds of Change can allay. Let’s unite and free America of this GOP scourge forever.

Mwita (Los Angeles, CA)   June 18th, 2008 3:29 pm ET

Get Hillary Clinton supporters to stop talking about Hillary Clinton! I dont care how great she is, she was matmatically defeated as early as April. Yet her pundits still talk up her billiant campain, 18 million votes, winning big states, white working class supporters, and demand a VP slot. And you know you will see some of her die-hard supporters protesting at the convention. It’s hard for a wound to heal when her supporters keep picking the scab.

peggy   June 18th, 2008 3:29 pm ET

Sounds like Clinton and Obama do not need to do anything, but the crazy people in this USA need to get over their angry on both sides.

Obama supporters have made everyone sick of hearing what a god he is and sick and tired of bashing Hillary.

The media needs to report the news instead of making up all this crap and analyzing every word someone says.

Of course if we got rid of the blogs and e-mails, people could get back to work doing a job and that includes CONGRESS.

John St. Louis Mo   June 18th, 2008 3:31 pm ET

Jack:

In order for Sens. Obama and Clinton to get the party completely united one would have to ask for a miracle. I am sure most people realize the Democratic party, being the most diverse party anywhere, that unity of thought is nearly impossible. They can, however, make it easier for Democrats to vote Democratic by showing thier own unity of direction. I think this is really what voters are looking for, some sign of stability and hope for America. Thank you Hillary for a groundbreaking campaign, and hopefully the two of you will unite in some form to bring all America together again.

Brianna   June 18th, 2008 3:32 pm ET

Senator Clinton should start doing guest posts on all of the blogs out there from people that claim to be former supporters of hers that are now backing McCain. She needs to reject the notion that somehow the election was stolen from her and that Obama beat her fair and square. She needs to make sure her supporters realize the alternative.

Thomas Happ   June 18th, 2008 3:32 pm ET

I’d like to hear something concrete about what Hillary’s political future will be. I think this will set a lot of people at ease.

. . .also I have an inexplicable desire to see them hug.

Rosalynd Florida   June 18th, 2008 3:32 pm ET

Simple, It’s the issues Stupid! Tired of Iraq, Want a Sane Supreme court , A good economy and a Washington that is owned by the people and not the lobbyist…….. Vote Democrat in 08.

Sherri   June 18th, 2008 3:32 pm ET

Neither Barack Obama or Hillary Clinton can unite the party, but the people of the Democratic party can. Regardless of which candidate they backed, Democrats support the same values, vision and goals. This is stronger than any one person or any one president.

When Democrats realize this, common sense will unite the party. It will be stronger than it ever has been.

Democrats unite!

JED   June 18th, 2008 3:33 pm ET

ONLY by sticking to the issues!

NY

MadPlato   June 18th, 2008 3:34 pm ET

Have a beer and a shot…
Shoot some hoops…then
High-five each other
With hugs!

MadPlato
El Paso, Texas

Jack Moore, Illinois   June 18th, 2008 3:39 pm ET

Polls have shown that many people will not vote for Obama if he brings Hillary on the ticket. But since Obama needs Hillary’s supporters, Hillary needs to publically refuse being VP. Then Hillary’s supporters will be happy that Obama offered the VP spot and independents aren’t scared away from Obama’s ticket.

Michelle   June 18th, 2008 3:41 pm ET

They won’t unite the party because millions won’t vote for Obama regardless of what Hillary is forced to say.

Steve   June 18th, 2008 3:41 pm ET

With so many Obama supporters loudly booing Clinton at his rally’s, it does not help to mend the fence and bring her supporters over to him. It only keeps them mad and disappointed.

Marian in IN   June 18th, 2008 3:42 pm ET

It’s up to Obama to bring the party together. Hillary has done her part. But for the millions of people who voted forher, Obama has to explain why he should get our vote. Saying change doesn’t cut it, especially when he has so little executive experience (read NONE).

Bush ran as an outsider with relatively experience. Look where that got us!

Annie, Atlanta   June 18th, 2008 3:42 pm ET

Show clips of McCain flip flopping all over the place, mostly unnoticed, during the Democratic primaries, starting with the things he is now for that he has voted against in the past 7 years.

Linda, Virginia   June 18th, 2008 3:42 pm ET

There would not be a reason to try to unite the party if Senator Clinton had not of tried to convince people that she has suffered publicly for being a female.

mary   June 18th, 2008 3:46 pm ET

The only way to unite the Democratic party is to have a joint ticket. As a Clinton supporter , I seriously doubt I would vote for Obama in November simply because he is so far left and can’t be trusted with national security. If Clinton was selected as VP, I would reconsider a Obama/Clinton ticket.

L.M.,Arizona   June 18th, 2008 3:47 pm ET

After listening to McCain flopping around if that doesn’t bring americans together supporting Obama then they deserve another four years of Bush.

Prince of New Orleans   June 18th, 2008 3:48 pm ET

Clinton and Obama do not have to unite the party Jack. Just the fact that John Mccain is Obama’s opponent is enough. We’ve been hoodwinked and bamboozled by George Bush for almost eight years now, and MCcain is in lock-step with George Bush. This race is not rocket science, but the media has to make it appear as if it’s going to be close. We’ve been stupid in the past as the world said we were when we re-elected George Bush for a second term. And as the saying goes; three times you’re out.

Twan from Annapolis   June 18th, 2008 3:50 pm ET

I agree with Mark from Ok City.

A fist bump would and a hugs would end a Great msg . Hillary is like Barack’s older sister, I think she has a genuine love and respect for Obama. And if she’s anything like my sister, no one better messed with her younger brother or they will feel her fury.

p.s. VP is too small of a roll Hillary. She needs to be in Charge of Something in his Administration. I’d feel comfortable with Hillary in charge of Homeland Security or FEMA, Im sure we would’nt repeat Katrina or 9/11.

Stacy in North Louisana   June 18th, 2008 3:51 pm ET

Have another debate to make her feel better since she claimed that “he won’t debate me” after we had seen about 20.

Mickie in Philadelphia, PA   June 18th, 2008 3:51 pm ET

Let’s get real - Hillary doesn’t want to unite the voters behind Obama (where has she been lately). All she wants is for McCain to get elected so she can say, “see I told you I’m more electable” and then run in 2012 without having to run against the sitting president. She doesn’t know how to bend to the will of the people - it’s all about Hillary. I just hope Obama wins regardless and that she never gets elected to another office.

Chet in Albany,NY   June 18th, 2008 3:51 pm ET

I say if Clinton supporters dont feel they’re being heard they should go to cnn.com/caffertyfile and post comments in your blog. After all the drama Hillary caused during the nomination process, its best she stay behind the scenes a while and allow wounds to heal. There is still time for her to do some good. Just not now.

Michael, Lorain Ohio   June 18th, 2008 3:52 pm ET

The best first step to uniting the party would be to have Hillary release her pledged and super delegates, so that they can support Obama. Then she needs other major supporters like Ferraro and Bill to publicly endorse Obama…once that happens, then every so slowly the party will UNITE

Alfredo   June 18th, 2008 3:52 pm ET

It is no brainer…make her the VP.

Alan, Buxton, Maine   June 18th, 2008 3:52 pm ET

A united Democratic party is an interesting but unrealistic concept. The best I might expect is for a temporary truce that lasts long enough to win the election in November. If Hillary can be persuaded to campaign for Barack without rancor, keep Bill quiet and not demand that the money we donate to him be used to pay her debt she might be of some use, otherwise she needs to return to the Senate and watch.

David Bakody   June 18th, 2008 3:53 pm ET

Jack, Senator Obama is the elected DNC candidate for President of United States of America, Senator Clinton came second and the ball is now in court to play on the front lines to elect the chosen leader to office. It’s just that simple. Anything less will cause more words to be wasted away from the real issues facing not only America but the world.

David
Dartmouth NS

Scott - Wichita, Kansas   June 18th, 2008 3:53 pm ET

Remember that show Celebrity Deathmatch?

“Let’s get it on!”

Diane Glasser   June 18th, 2008 3:57 pm ET

Simple - Shake hands with Obama and then declare she will go from state to state to rally the voters to help him get into the White House and actually do it.
She also has to get off her “high horse” and walk proudly beside Obama.

Robert - Des Moines, IA   June 18th, 2008 3:57 pm ET

Its funny the bloggers accuse her of damaging the party. That makes no sense.

First of all, her supporters have been there since the beginning. We are not the ones that abandoned her, Obama’s supporters did. It appears to me that they are the ones that are responsible for damaging the party.

I also see some want Clinton to apologize? How about this. Why don’t Obama’s supporters apologize for months of badgering her supporters have had to contend with. So far, his supporters are his own worst enemy when it comes to the general election.

Herman in LA   June 18th, 2008 4:04 pm ET

Jack, first she should apologize, and then tell all of her supporters that the process was fair given the circumstances that MI, FL violated the rules, give him a fist bump, and then a big hug, then go to work stumping for him on the trail.

Joe, IL   June 18th, 2008 4:04 pm ET

They need to come together. I think this would mark disaster for Obama! By the way, Obama is receiving no bounce from Clinton retiring her campaign. Once this race is focused on Issues, Obama will look like his party’s symbol, and McCain will win. I guarantee it! Remember 2004?

Ryan   June 18th, 2008 4:04 pm ET

Smile and wave, Jack. Smile and wave.

Robert from Atlanta   June 18th, 2008 4:04 pm ET

Do not hold your breath she took her marbles and is running down the street. It is clear she is angry at the defectors. ” She’s making a list and checking it twice ect”. Clearly her followers would support Obama if she were more supportive of him . I just want to say thanks Hillary for giving us Bush’s third term.

roger colorado   June 18th, 2008 4:32 pm ET

As someone who has donated to Seantor Obama’s campaign, let me make somethng perfectly clear. While I am not a large donor, I did not donate money to be diverted to pay off Hillary Clinton’s campaign debt. If she had withdrawn earlier when it was obvious she was going to lose she would not have incurred as large a debt.

kelley, portland, OR   June 18th, 2008 4:34 pm ET

It’s difficult to trust Hillary and her ’suspended’ campaign, her management is still intact and as unethical as ever, so, rather than everyone tiptoeing around the Clinton’s (sigh, over it already), perhaps Hillary should, for once, show some respect and regard and get her entitled rear in gear and start campaigning for Barack. Didn’t she say she would do so? Thus, prior to a joint showing, she needs to save face & back her words up with actions.

Boyd Bench   June 18th, 2008 4:34 pm ET

Jack
I keep hearing people(Senators and Representives) from Folorida and California saying that they do not want drilling off their coasts, because it will hurt tourism. Well someone needs to let them know that if the fuel prices stay high and keep going up people will not be coming to their States to visit and all the money they are counting on from tourism is going to dry up. Wake up coastal states the piggy bank is going dry and soon.

Tiffany, Richmond, CA   June 18th, 2008 4:36 pm ET

chest bump - it works every time.

Brandon in Boston   June 18th, 2008 4:36 pm ET

I think they know exactly what they have to do; mention McCain and remind the party that there are a bunch of Supreme Court positions at stake. Hillary supporters already know what a disaster another four years of right wing extremism will do to damage this country. All they have to do is be reminded.

Derick, Greenlawn NY   June 18th, 2008 4:37 pm ET

Hillary needs to take some more hard-earned time off, and come back in July ready to campaign full-throttle for Obama. Once she’s refreshed and can show the same enthusiasm her supporters were accustomed to seeing in the primary, those supporters will feed off her energy and embrace her message of unity. She’s a great public servant, and I’m 100% sure she hasn’t lost the ability to inspire her ardent followers.

Richard Sternagel   June 18th, 2008 4:38 pm ET

Barack Obama needs to Acknowledge(he has) Hillary Clinton’s Historical Campaign and all that she has done for Women! She on the other hand, must steadfastly and authentically Support Barack Obama as the Democratic Candidate! Campaigning Together in the Swing States also will Solidify The Democratic Party.

Kelley in Sacramento   June 18th, 2008 4:38 pm ET

The reason our party is divided is due to the unethical tactics of Hillary, Bill and folks like Ickes & Flournoy. They never had intentions of uniting our party, their intentions were selfish and continue to be. Otherwise, why the ’suspension’ of the campaign? A joint showing would hardly heal what Hillary has done. Her herds of ‘Hillary or Bust’ are mindless sheep, not voting for our ideals, & continuing their threats of stepping over to the other side. I say let them all go, take their whining ways with them. NO JOINT SHOW! Hillary needs to apologize profusely before Barack should grace her with his presence.

Larry   June 18th, 2008 4:40 pm ET

Jack,

If Sen. John Mccain was a rapper his name would be MC Flip Flop. It’s amazing how he changes his political positions based on what the polls say in order to gain ground with liberal and democratic voters. I know there’s a sucker born every minute but I wonder how many will be voting for Mc Flip Flop.

Larry
Brooklyn ,N.Y.

Bradley in Missouri   June 18th, 2008 4:41 pm ET

They need to stick to the issues, not mention the primaries at all or their personal accomplishments. And then Obama needs to announce her as his VP choice. This will unify the party. Anything else will only cause more division between their individual supporters and also increase the racial and gender divides.

Beverley, Fredricksburg Va   June 18th, 2008 4:42 pm ET

Jack,

Party unity is going to and should take a backseat to Country Unity. Obama should continue to invite Clinton and her supporters to be a part of his administration and then make Chuck Hagel his vice president candidate. It is going to take every American rolling up his/her sleeves to fix our problems. If Clinton and her supporters think this is about them, they need to grow up!

bea   June 18th, 2008 4:43 pm ET

The DNC wants party unity after they threw Hillary under the bus???? Too precious!!

Neither Hillary nor Bill need to apologize for anyhting, it was a primary and Obama was her opponent. He was not her brother, he and his campaign did plenty of attacking too.

Does Obama want her supporters to vote for him? Well, then let Mr. Unity put his mouth where his mouth is and ask her to be his VP.

No Hillary on the ticket, then no Obama in November!!!!

Mary, OH   June 18th, 2008 4:43 pm ET

That is easy Jack. To unite the party all we would have to do is to get rid of both Clinton and Obama. We would replace them with a ticket of two old, semi-intelligent white guys that can recite the following lines “Vote for us because we are not Bush!!!”. Are you and Anderson Cooper available??? No one would be completely happy or bitter. Problem solved !!!

Mary Robinson
Cleveland, OH

Lindsay Agle   June 18th, 2008 4:44 pm ET

The true test of Clinton-Obama unity will come when Obama announces his choice for vice-president. If Obama chooses someone besides Hillary, her positive or negative reaction will play a key role in her legitimacy as a party unifier and backer of Obama. Stay tuned.

Lindsay A
Pittsburgh, PA

juice-Canyon Lake   June 18th, 2008 4:45 pm ET

Appear at campaign rallies together. However it is clear she will not be his running mate in the fall and all the Hillitary supporters need to get over their hurt feelings and join the Obama team.

Sebastien   June 18th, 2008 4:46 pm ET

Jack,

Hilary Clinton needs to do more to endorse Obama’s perceived weaknesses. She can start with how strong his campaign was.

For all the talk about “experience” and “strategy”, both political and economical, by Clinton and McCain, they sure got beat by Obama’s own campaign.

If he can run a political campaign this well, and McCain is this inept at running a campaign, that does speak to how well he can run other campaigns — a military or economic campaign, for example. It’s all management and delegation; strategy and tactics.

Cliton would do well to praise that, and it would help unite the party.

Thanks,

Sebastian
Kamloops, British Columbia

Amarissa   June 18th, 2008 4:47 pm ET

Respect our intelligence and stop trying to push this “rookie” senator down our throats! We will continue fighting for the REAL Candidate: Hillary Clinton! Hope to God she does nothing to get him elected after the mistreatment and the cheating she has received from her own Party!
Amarissa from Florida

BonnieInTexas   June 18th, 2008 4:52 pm ET

Actually, according to Obama’s own PR, he’s the great unifier, the awesome uniter. By his own words you have to wonder why he thinks he even needs Senator Clinton’s help - after all the things he’s accomplished on his own (name 3?) shouldn’t he just be able to snap his fingers and !poof! everybody’s on his side. Yeah! He’s that good!

Debra Rich, Washington,DC   June 18th, 2008 4:53 pm ET

Jack,
Hillary Clinton needs to go on the campaign trail and explain to Democrats how she “now doesn’t believe” all those things she said about Obama during the primaries. She needs to be convincing when she stubs for Obama or the party doesn’t have a chance. Also not just Hillary, but Bill Clinton has a lot of fences to mend as well. If they don’t suceed, then it may be that if Obama looses the Clintons will be part of the reason for creating this party split due to their negative campaigning.

It will also be up to Obama to keep hammer his message of how he will bring about the changes he is planning. It will also be up to the media to cover him in a way that when he does talk policy that they cover it for those who are Tv sound bite followers of the election. I have watched CSPAN and seen some of Obama’s speaches in which he has covered isuues in detail, but those speaches on the networks and cable only highlighted snipes at John McCain. I;m sure it maybe the same for John Mc Cain. The media newspper, TV, and Internet needs to be more responsible and less sensation about this election. Our country’s future is at stake; and unfortunately some people are looking to you all to give us a look at these candidates, instead of investigating the issues theirselves.

Jerry,OK   June 18th, 2008 4:54 pm ET

Barack and Hillary should stir the cravings for a spectacular counterfit miracle—changing Washington! This rhetorical manipulation should be received with jubilant enthusiasm by those in their fairy-tale stage.

Jerry N/Tulsa

Deborah   June 18th, 2008 4:55 pm ET

They need to state that both group of supporters in their zeal and determination to secure the nomination went too far in their criticisms. They could say…even if it were not entirley true, that during their private meeting with Diane feinstein’s home, that they each offerred and accepted each others apoligies for the excesses that occurred. They could then ask their supporters to follow their personal leads…for the good of the party…and the good of the country.

gtc from New York, NY   June 18th, 2008 4:56 pm ET

Hillary should do nothing. Obama needs her (and her 18 million votes, by the way) more than she needs him. Win he loses the general election and crawls back to shady Chicago, she will still be a two-term Senator, former first lady, first-class lawyer and history-making stateswoman.

john in Oregon   June 18th, 2008 4:56 pm ET

Jack - It should be pretty easy to unite against McCain due to the sharp contrast on their positions.

Hopefully he won’t ask her to be his VP as I not sure your heart could endure that!

Dau in Scottsdale, AZ   June 18th, 2008 4:56 pm ET

I think if they can agree on some key issues, things may turn around for Obama and the Democratic Party’s favor. After the damages she caused during the primaries season, she is ought to do more to heal the wound she and her campaign caused for both the Obama Campaign and the Democratic Party as well. If she can bring her supporters along with her to back Senator Obama, that would be nice too. I think the Democrats have a better chance to win this election, but they need to come together and support their Candidate; everyone did a good job so far on backing Senator Obama except most of Hillary supporters and she needs to send her message to them before the Republican use her past negative adds against the Obama Campaign and therefore win the election.

Jenny from Nanuet, New York   June 18th, 2008 4:57 pm ET

They have to both show up.

Melvin Harper   June 18th, 2008 4:57 pm ET

Obama quit.
Melvin
La JUnta,Co

I Choose Obama   June 18th, 2008 5:00 pm ET

They can unite the Democrats by focusing on the issues and the difference between Democrats and Republicans. Middle class tax cuts as opposed to Bush wealthy tax cuts. Bringing troops out of Iraq vs. Keeping troops in Iraq, Fairer trade vs. Free trade. Re-building U.S. partnerships in the World vs. U.S. Going It Alone strategy. Using tough diplomacy without preconditions with U.S. enemies vs. Making enemies meet pre-conditions first before the U.S. talks with enemies. The choice will be yours.

Sheri, WPB, FL   June 18th, 2008 5:02 pm ET

Not to belabor the point, but it’s called a “POUND” not a fist bump. Why is that people have such a hard time with the name? Does it imply something that I’ve missed? It’s a POUND. Okay? There’s a handshake, a high-five, and a POUND.

Now, to the Clinton donors. Let me get this straight:: these Clinton donors are insisting that Obama defray Clinton’s debt (of approx. $20M) before the donors will donate to the Obama campaign? Is there a reason these donors don’t donate money to pay off the debt directly? I guess I’m missing a lot lately.

Thanks, Jack. You’re the best!

Not fooled   June 18th, 2008 5:03 pm ET

Hillary could just stay gone. She’s been out of the picture for a couple weeks now. Anybody miss her?

Dave   June 18th, 2008 5:03 pm ET

Obama can announce that Hillary is his VP choice! If not, then he can plan to going back to his role as a Senator in the Fall.

taylor richmond virginia   June 18th, 2008 5:04 pm ET

Free Cake! Everyone loves cake.

Randy Denver   June 18th, 2008 5:04 pm ET

Nothing, the fact is that most reasoning supporters of Ms. Clinton have already decided to back Mr. Obama, the unreasoning will never give him a chance, they will continue to cling to the mistaken notion that the DNC had it out for Ms. Clinton (I thought it was the other way for most of the primary selection cycle), and that the Obama campaign played the race card or that she won the popular vote and that Michigan and Florida were fair votes and should have stood the way they were. What she should do is to activily campaign for him and EXPLAIN she was mistaken in the remarks she made about AMr. McCain being a better choice than Mr. Obama so that the DNC can have some ammunition to fire back at the RNC since she loaded them up with ammunition in the first place. It is not likely that she will do what is really needed, i.e. admit defeat to a better candidate and fully support that candidate, but it can be wished for.

Cynthia - Arkansas   June 18th, 2008 5:05 pm ET

It’s only been 11 days since Clinton left the race. I know how devastating it must be to let go for the Clinton supporters. Time heals all wounds. If the Clinton supporters love America like I think they do, they will not let us have four more years of gloom and doom. I believe that given a few months, all will be forgotten. Too much is at stake!

Chris from NY   June 18th, 2008 5:05 pm ET

I think Obama has pandered enough to Hillary supporters. He should continue to campaign and leave these people alone. Some of these people will come back and some wouldn’t. As I have always said these are people who registered Democrat during the primaries and now going home to their base. They wouldn’t vote Democrat anyways unless it is Hillary that’s running.

Mike out West   June 18th, 2008 5:06 pm ET

As for Clinton, she should show up, urge her supporters to back Obama, and then announce she is leaving the country permanently and taking Bill with her.

Obama should volunteer to help them pack and drive them to the airport.

Annie Kraft Naples FL   June 18th, 2008 5:08 pm ET

smile, hold their hands in the air and their noses on their faces

Linda from Prescott AZ   June 18th, 2008 5:08 pm ET

I do not agree that Senator Obama should pay down Sentor Clinton’s debt, it’s her debt and it’s called fiscal responsiblity.

Jay R. from Indiana   June 18th, 2008 5:13 pm ET

Prevent Hillary from having a microphone. That would be a good start.

Gary   June 18th, 2008 5:13 pm ET

Hug!

LB   June 18th, 2008 5:13 pm ET

She should be more vocal about how her views are aligned with Barack’s views, and that a vote for John McCain is a vote against her. It would help IMMENSELY if she and Bill campaign for him in WV, PA, OH, and FL.

Annie Kraft Naples FL   June 18th, 2008 5:14 pm ET

hold their noses…..and smile

Dale Smith   June 18th, 2008 5:14 pm ET

Jack,

Hillary and Barack only need to have their “get together” on the “Situation Room” portion on CNN.

CNN will make it a love fest.

Dale Smith

Barbara   June 18th, 2008 5:14 pm ET

Obama should pick Clinton as his running mate.

David, Orlando, FL   June 18th, 2008 5:14 pm ET

Obama - stay his course, with honesty and straight talk. He also must to come up with the details for his plans to reverse what is left of our once great country aftyer Bush’s destructive reign. Clinton needs to throw her entire spirit into supporting Obama – she has to believe it herself. That is the only way she might be able to convince her supporters to support Obama. And she needs to point out that supporting Obama’s platform is essentially supporting her own. There is no way any rational person can have supported Clinton and then vote for McSame out of spite.

V. from Chester Virginia   June 18th, 2008 5:14 pm ET

Jack, it’s simple what they have to do. Clinton has to put on her biggest smile ever to convince Obama to pick her a VP, and Obama has to act like he’s sympathetic to the Clinton (whom many have little to no respect for) to kiss up to a bunch of sore Hillary fanatics.

Joe St Louis, MO   June 18th, 2008 5:15 pm ET

First we need to find Hillary.

Tia   June 18th, 2008 5:15 pm ET

Actually he should run….fast.

steve   June 18th, 2008 5:15 pm ET

They need to play nice and smile while they share their toys in the sand box! Really, the primaries are over, so get over it and on with the business at hand.

Steve
Pomona, New York

Jack Sutton Jr.   June 18th, 2008 5:16 pm ET

Jack, to answer your question, they would probably have to get married to each other, but their current spouses might object to unity at THAT cost.

Sean   June 18th, 2008 5:16 pm ET

TALK ABOUT LOWER GAS PRICES. The people that want change are the people that hate paying their whole pay check on just filling up their car. And why do they need a car? They need a car to get to work. So, the money they are making isn’t enough for food, health care, and natural disasters; like in my home state of Iowa. People will be going broke out of their minds from this.

Marie Duval   June 18th, 2008 5:16 pm ET

As a die hard Hillary supporter just like million others, we know we have to get over our differences in order for Obama to get to the White House (Yes, it’ll still be called the White House), we must unite. Hence, Hillary and Obama will pull their resources together to ensure victory in November. They have everything to win and nothing to lose by uniting.

Gary   June 18th, 2008 5:16 pm ET

Or, maybe just a fist bump.

Lompoc CA

LaToddrea   June 18th, 2008 5:17 pm ET

Hillary and Barack need to smile, smile, smile when they get together in Washington. They need to wave to the crowd and do the “whispering in the ear” thing that they did at so many of the debates. Their actions need to suggest that she is well rested, all is well between the two of them, and that she’s VERY excited about Barack Obama becoming our new president.

Kristin, Fayetteville, AR   June 18th, 2008 5:17 pm ET

Combine ideas to benefit Americans! I am a 25 year old female Hill voter. Obama needs me! He should take his ideas, work with HC & combine their ideas. For example, healthcare & education to start. Make me proud Obama! BROCK MY WORLD!

Kevin from Arkansas   June 18th, 2008 5:17 pm ET

Simple. Obama needs to suspend his own campaign so that the person who has already proven they can win the General Election can
actually become the Democratic nominee at the convention.

Joe G. Desert Hot Springs, CA   June 18th, 2008 5:17 pm ET

Jack, Clinton and Obama need to do nothing less than dance a waltz dressed as Ginger Rogers and Fred Astaire to unite the party.

Tina/Chicago   June 18th, 2008 5:17 pm ET

hillary knows nothing about unity! a woman who has repeatedly said she would do anything to be president-she has no intentions on uniting the party. barack should watch her because she can’t be trusted! I wouldn’t be surprised if she is working in the backgrounds to to help mccain. by the way Jack I love you-you tell it like it is-maybe you should replace tim russert.

Erica,TX   June 18th, 2008 5:17 pm ET

Hi Jack,

I think the best way for them to show unity is to come out with Bill, Chelsea, Michelle and the kids all holding hands! Then Senator Obama should give Hillary a kiss on the cheek and hug! She needs one!

Alex   June 18th, 2008 5:18 pm ET

Obama and Clinton must announce Hillary’s new position within the Obama “group” whether it be vice-presidential nominee or another key position, these two groups must be able to meld their interests, mend fences, and concentrate on the struggle ahead.

aware   June 18th, 2008 5:18 pm ET

They can’t! Disillusioned Democrats like me and Independents have already moved to the only wise choice left.

Vote for John McCain 08! :)

Bob Klepak   June 18th, 2008 5:18 pm ET

The party is united, Jack. Those alleged Clinton voters that will vote for McCain weren’t Democrats nor Independents in the 1st place. They were and are Limaugh micheif-makers who jumped on to the Hillary “I am woman” wagon for fun and for the most part were always going to vote Republican. Obama is smart enough to know that and while not openly going to say so because of the few Hillary “true-believers” that will take a few weeks to ome home.

Eric, from THE Republic of Texas   June 18th, 2008 5:18 pm ET

Simple Jack… the way Democrats have always united their party:
by promising to dole out the most Gubmint Goodies.

Bryant   June 18th, 2008 5:19 pm ET

I believe Obama needs to disect and acquire the essence Clinton. Obama just doesn’t have to influence the Clinton supporters, but also maintain their support throughout the general election.

Cory   June 18th, 2008 5:19 pm ET

It’s really not that complicated… Obama and Clinton supporters need to get along and work together if we’re ever going to show a level of unity which is vital in order to beat McCain.
Cory
Palm Springs, Ca

Sarah McCain   June 18th, 2008 5:19 pm ET

Jack, if Hillary Clinton’s 18 million supporters are so upset and so much in love with her, why don’t they give her $2.00 each, that would be $36 million dollars enough to pay off her campaign debt. When I donate to Barack my money is not to be used to pay Hillary’s debt. As to what Obama and Clinton could do to heal the pary, stay away from each other.

Sarah
Dolton, Il

Lili Rose   June 18th, 2008 5:19 pm ET

Barack and Hillary should remind their supporters that Barack is going to need everyone’s vote come November in order to keep McCain out of the White House. If Hillary’s supporters think backing McCain rather than Obama is the right thing to do, they’re not true democrats; they’re cultists. Hillary needs to remind her supporters of what their party stands for and that Obama is the nominee. If they’re true to their party, they will vote for Obama.

Rosemary, California   June 18th, 2008 5:19 pm ET

She could start by shredding some of the negative talking points she gave the Republicans to use against Sen. Obama in the Primary and now the General Election.

She insisted that Obama was not ready for prime time to the near detrtiment of the Democratic Party unity during this election cycle. So, she has a big job in front of her. She has to make us believe it that he is the “One”.

Marina Strawser   June 18th, 2008 5:20 pm ET

Dance ! Barack and Hillary should dance. Maybe a waltz?

L Pallette - San Francisco   June 18th, 2008 5:20 pm ET

I’m not sure that some Clinton supporters will ever be satisfied . . . Obama has been respectful and thoughtful in his public comments about Mrs. Clinton. He gave her time and space to concede the race and did not quibble about her unseemly and defiant speech the night (HIS night) he obtained the requisite number of delegates to clinch the nomination. Yet now the demands continue from the Clinton people. Obama is being told that needs to pay for the privilege of defeating her by suggesting that his donors contribute to Clinton (even when he needs their donations to take on McCain). This seems a bit much to me when Mrs. Clinton did not actually donate to her own campaign, but merely lent money. She needs to pony up before asking for help from the man who had to spend a lot to overcome her challenge.

Patrick   June 18th, 2008 5:20 pm ET

Unite! The Democrats unite! Surely u jest! Remember this, “I belong to no organized party. I am a democrat”.

Tia   June 18th, 2008 5:21 pm ET

Since he’s beating Methuselah in the three big states, as of today, he really doesn’t need her. And he should keep Bob Johnson far away as well. Some money men you just don’t need!

Rachel in Texas   June 18th, 2008 5:21 pm ET

The only thing that would unite the democratic party is for Obama to announce that Hillary will be the VP.

Until that is done, Obama will not win the democratic election in November. He claims to have a party for change, well, he is a politican and is not any different from other Washington politicians and that will be seen as the months go by.

Adrian in NJ   June 18th, 2008 5:21 pm ET

All they need to do is tell voters about everything they have in common and remind them that our country can’t afford John McSame in a post-Bush world… it is simply too dangerous to have more of the same.

Kate   June 18th, 2008 5:21 pm ET

Obama needs to announce he’