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Headlines from March 9th, 2008
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HALPERIN'S TAKE: What is keeping the Clinton team busy behind the scenes? Permalink
Evening News Roundup
All three broadcasts led with the Spitzer "political earthquake," followed by Obama's dismissal of the Clintons' VP suggestions. ABC: In Spitzer package, expert called it unlikely he will face criminal charges, but Stephanopoulos said it will be "very, very difficult" to remain in office. Next, political package said Obama's comments had a bristling, "how dare she" tone. Reporter was clearly skeptical of Wolfson's suggestion that Obama can swiftly acquire national security credentials, saying "Go figure." CBS: Spitzer round-up followed by package on the perceived hypocrisy of his alleged behavior. Then to Obama's rejection of VP overtures, and word that McCain passed a routine doctor's appointment Monday in Arizona. NBC: Spitzer package scandal summarized allegations in the context of his life as a crusading politician. Briefly touched on possible legal repercussions. Next, covered Obama's emphatic dismissal of the Clintons' "dream ticket" suggestions and elaborated on his role as frontrunner. Andrea Mitchell then explored Clinton's strategy to offer up Obama as a vice presidential candidate, calling it a "sly put-down of the frontrunner." Permalink
There's Pledged and Then There's "Pledged"
Clinton re-raises, ever so subtly, the notion of just how pledged the elected delegates are. "Even elected and caucus delegates are not required to stay with whomever they are pledged to." Innocent remark or another trial balloon (on a topic already raised and shot down)? Plus: Former DNC chair and Clinton supporter sends memo to Democratic superdelegates encouraging them to vote their conscience. Steve Grossman: "Superdelegates were not selected by the national party to be either potted plants or rubber stamps." Permalink
Penn: GOP, Independents Deserting Obama
Clinton's top strategist asserts to the New Yorker that Obama's liberal views and inexperience are costing him. "Independent and Republican support is diminishing as they find out he's the most liberal Democratic senator... As they get more of a sense that he's not ready to be Commander-in-Chief, a lot of Independents who were supporting him are disappearing." Permalink
Ferraro: "If Obama Was a White Man, He Would Not Be in This Position"
"He happens to be very lucky to be who he is," says the former VP candidate, a Clinton supporter. Clinton spokesman Wolfson: "We disagree with her." Permalink
Pennsylvania Roots May Boost Clinton
Senator expected to highlight her family ties to the Keystone State, where her father was born and she spent early summers. Click above for footage of a young candidate-to-be, narrated by Clinton. Permalink
Florida/Michigan Potpourri
--Govs. Corzine and Rendell offer to raise half the $30 million price tag for new primaries in Florida and Michigan. --Sharpton travels to Florida, threatens to sue if state's current delegates are seated. --In WSJ op-ed, Florida Sen. Nelson calls for a new vote. Permalink
Moving On to Mississippi
--WSJ: Mississippi looking strong for Obama. --USA Today: Magnolia State relishing unusual political influence. --Democrats' enthusiasm said to be highest since 1976. --Tuesday will offer a tough decision for many African-American voters. Permalink
Rove Faces Down Hecklers
"You've got a chance to ask your questions later and make your stupid statements," the former Bush adviser tells 200 protesters in Iowa. Also responds to being Olbermann's "worst person in the world." Permalink
More Cross-Examination in Rezko Trial
Former counsel to Illinois' governor, a prosecution witness, is back on the stand in Chicago. Plus: A Rezko primer from the AP. Permalink
Bill Clinton: "We Got Started Late" in Mississippi
In rare Q&A with the press in Pascagoula, also acknowledges the campaign "started behind organizationally." Click above for video. Again puts in good word for a Clinton-Obama ticket: "She believes when this is over if we can unify the Democratic Party then we will clearly win...." Permalink
Obama Makes TV Rounds
Land of Lincolner scheduled to appear on CNN and MSNBC Tuesday during Mississippi results coverage. Also slated for interviews on ABC, NBC and CBS morning shows Wednesday. Permalink
Five U.S. Soldiers Killed in Baghdad
Bombing in central Baghdad wounds three other Americans. Worst single attack on U.S. forces in the Iraqi capital in months. Permalink
NY Times on Team Clinton's “Disorder and Dysfunction”
Paper of Record finds new boss Williams grappling with a campaign plagued by infighting. Candidate called aloof and detached. One of her first moves: to order Mark Penn off television. Permalink
SNL Reimagines "the 3 A.M. Phone Call"
"Saturday Night Live" opener offers its own take on Clinton's attention-getting ad. Only the late-night call is placed by Obama, to Clinton. Click above to watch. Permalink
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