Clinton's "Red Phone"

Perhaps the most provocative ad Hillary Clinton has run this cycle. It's bound to evoke comparisons to LBJ's "Daisy" ad and Walter Mondale's "Red Phone" ads -- asking the essential question: if the White House phone rings at 3:00 am and there's a crisis brewing, who do you want on the other end of the line? Arguably, this is her best ... argument .. against Barack Obama, and yet it's taken her 13 months to make it so explicitly.

ANNCR: It's 3am and your children are safe and asleep.

But there's a phone in the White House and it's ringing.

Something's happening in the world.

Your vote will decide who answers that call.

Whether it's someone who already knows the world's leaders.knows the
military.someone tested and ready to lead in a dangerous world.

It's 3am and your children are safe and asleep.

Who do you want answering the phone?

Hillary Clinton: I am Hillary Clinton and I approve this message.

Comments

Why is it taking her so long to answer that phone!?

Its scary stuff, dont she know? Pick it up!

Posted by JP | February 29, 2008 9:07 AM

Senator Clinton should be aware of this: when you ask a question like this, you might not like the answer you get.

Posted by PolSciProf | February 29, 2008 9:08 AM

Is that the SNL skit I heard about?

Posted by RuralD | February 29, 2008 9:08 AM

marc, this is a nice joke. i'm glad you're starting to take a thumb-in-cheek approach to your analysis.

Posted by wj | February 29, 2008 9:12 AM

i know who I want answering the phone...someone calm, cool, collected, who doesn't send their campaign into total Panic Mode after they lose a state.

i want Barack Obama to answer that phone. (metaphorically.)

Posted by rob! | February 29, 2008 9:14 AM

Let's be clear on something ... the Democrats had six viable candidates this cycle. Of those, the three most qualified candidates barely made it past New Hampshire. The top three candidates had, by my estimate, 18 years holding national office between them. I think it's pretty clear experience isn't what Democrats are looking at this year!

Posted by noho1 | February 29, 2008 9:17 AM

Appalling.

Posted by Benjamin | February 29, 2008 9:20 AM

Yet, strangely, this ad only cements my decision to support Obama.

First, it's astonishing that she tries to claim credit as a foreign policy expert, simply because she was physically present in the White House.

She did not have security clearance, did not attend meetings where national security topics were discussed, never negotiated a treaty. In fact, prior to her run for President, in the many biographies that have been written, has anyone claimed that she played a prominent role in foreign policy debates within Bill Clinton's administration? (Compare this invisibility to the very prominent role she played on the health care issue.)

So, what's her claim to greater experience?

I do recall her trying to claim credit for going to Bosnia -- until it was revealed that she had gone there with Sinbad and Chelsea.

Second, insofar as she has participated in foreign policy debates since becoming a senator, she's shown that her instincts are the wrong ones. Where she fears she could be branded "liberal" or dovish by the right, she instinctively gives in to pressure, to prove that she's tough. Thus her vote on the AUMF - while she was in a safe district that would never have punished her for voting the other way. Thus her position on the flag-burning agreement - when it's been years since the right has done anything with that issue.

I don't want someone who responds so easily to that kind of pressure answering that phone.

Posted by TedL | February 29, 2008 9:22 AM

"Arguably, this is her best ... argument .. against Barack Obama, and yet it's taken her 13 months to make it so explicitly."

It's a terrible argument, since she's been making it for three months now and it hasn't gained any real traction. Hillary is getting the same support she's always gotten, based on economic concerns among the base and the fact that she's a Clinton with a vagina. Huge numbers of people haven't bought into the experience angle so far, even though she keeps pushing it.

Posted by Helter | February 29, 2008 9:26 AM

That's a great ad, but the Obama team response re-relasing the one from Oct. w/that General is a pretty good antidote. And they are definitly going to drive a conversation about Obama's credentials, but I think that's an argument if he wins will only make him stronger in the general election.

Posted by Rhoda | February 29, 2008 9:29 AM

Vote for me, or your children will die!!!!

Posted by Sen. Clinton | February 29, 2008 9:31 AM

Love how she's fully dressed at 3:00 am. Does she sleep in the freaking pants suit?

Posted by Rid | February 29, 2008 9:32 AM

If this is her best argument, she's in bigger trouble than I thought.

I don't want Hillary Clinton to respond in a crisis. I want a leader who's calm, cool, and collected.

I want Barack Obama to be our commander in chief.

Posted by Ben Vos | February 29, 2008 9:32 AM

I can't tell, but is she speaking on the telephone with the world leaders she supposedly knew back in the '90's?

That must be one magic telephone because most of those leaders are either dead or out of office.

Hell, even Fidel is gone, now.

Posted by Matt K. | February 29, 2008 9:32 AM

3 a.m., in bed...the ad also invokes the old two-for-the-price-of-one pitch.

Posted by Asp | February 29, 2008 9:33 AM

Why do I get the feeling this ad will become news.

But I just want to reinforce Rob! "i know who I want answering the phone...someone calm, cool, collected, who doesn't send their campaign into total Panic Mode after they lose a state."

Everyone knows Obama is an Mac, and Clinton is a PC. When Clinton answers the phone, she'll go BSOD.

Posted by Jeff Morgan | February 29, 2008 9:38 AM

It's a terrible argument because it's not an argument for her. You could substitute "John McCain" in the tagline and get an ad that's equally effective-- if not more so.

Posted by Persia | February 29, 2008 9:39 AM

The real story about this week is how George Bush, John McCain, and Hillary Clinton are coordinating their messages this week.

I think that Karl Rove is the invisible hand coordinating efforts of all three camps.

The Clinton/Bush/McCain/Rove Combine don't particularly like it that Obama is pointing out how they allsurrendered to Al Qaeda in Pakistan and Afghanistan so they could give aid and comfort to Iran by knocking off Saddam, who hated both Iran and Al Qaeda.

But there is an important point in the ad. When Hillary Clinton gets a call at 3AM, she will know exactly what to do...call Mark Penn to focus group a response. He will echo Bill Clinton's advice that, especially as a woman candidiate, "it is better to be strong and wrong rather than weak and right."

We already know that Hillary Clinton sent thousands of soldiers to die for a mistake just because she wanted to appear tough.

As president, the voters of Ohio and Texas can be assured that Hillary Clinton will not hesitate to use military force to improve her approval ratings.

Posted by RKA | February 29, 2008 9:39 AM

"3 a.m., in bed...the ad also invokes the old two-for-the-price-of-one pitch."

I believe most Americans now assume that last place you'd find Bill Clinton at 3:00 am is in bed with Hillary.

Posted by Rid | February 29, 2008 9:39 AM

When has Senator Clinton ever been tested in a crisis (excepting her current political crisis, of course)?

For someone who continues to insist that she is ready on Day One, she surely wasn't prepared for Senator Obama. She needs to stop telling him, his voters, and the news media that we all need to be ashamed of ourselves. Instead, she should look in the mirror and take responsibility for not having a plan or a strategy beyond Super Tuesday on February 5th.

Posted by Matt K. | February 29, 2008 9:42 AM

How ironic it is for her to release this ad four days after she lost her sh*t "Shame on you, Barack Obama" on national TV. Yeah, we totally want her to answer the phone when there is an emergency. Calm, cool and collected, right ?

Posted by Benjamin | February 29, 2008 9:45 AM

"Whether it's someone who already knows the world's leaders. Knows the military. Someone tested and ready to lead in a dangerous world."

At every turn, Hillary points up how her approach is so much about the past. Past images. Past fear tactics. And we thought Bush was rigid. If the American people actually believed that she was "tested and ready to lead in a dangerous world"in a way that Obama is not, she wouldn't be fighting for her political life.

She keeps talking down to us as if we haven't thought of that. Haven't thought about our safety. The answer is - We don't believe she is. So, she should stopped asking dumb questions that only put her in a worse light.

Posted by C.B Todd | February 29, 2008 9:49 AM

Did someone say 3am in bed...two-for-the-price-of-one? At 3am in bed, together...somehow I doubt it..hmmm, I wonder why...

Posted by Newday | February 29, 2008 9:50 AM

Hillary Clinton for White House secretary!

(She's good at picking up phones!)

(And good at screening crank calls!)

Barack Obama for President!

Posted by lampwick | February 29, 2008 9:53 AM

It's a defensible ad - but if this is the question, the answer for most people is John McCain. Period. HRC may have some strong suits, but she has no record that is relevant to "answering the phone".

Posted by Charles L | February 29, 2008 9:53 AM

Sec. of Defense: Ms. President?
Hillary: (groggily) Yes?
SoD: I'm sorry to wake you. We have a situation.
Hillary: (perking up) What is it?
SoD: Pakistan. Musharaff's been taken out. We believe it was al Qaeda.
Hillary: Bin Laden?
SoD: We don't know yet. At this point we are assuming yes.
Hillary: SHAME ON YOU OSAMA BIN LADEN!
SoD: Ms. President?
Hillary: Since when did terrorist organizations attack heads of state!
SoD: Ms. President, how should we proceed?
Hillary: Hold on, I'll get Bill.

Posted by Craig | February 29, 2008 9:56 AM

Who do I want answering that phone? Certainly not the unbalanced person I've seen on the campaign trail. Certainly not the person who has made the wrong decision on every major decision she's made. Certainly not the person who was so ill informed about a place as vital and dangerous as Pakistan that she didn't understand Musharraf was not going to be in the upcoming elections for parliament.

Posted by Terri | February 29, 2008 9:56 AM

"Knows the world's leaders."

Next leader of Russia: Med...Medev...Mededve... whatever.

Hey uh, ring up ol-what's his name.

Don't let Hillary answer the phone.

Posted by THI | February 29, 2008 9:57 AM

Paging Karl Rove...white courtesy phone

Posted by MP | February 29, 2008 9:59 AM

I'd like the person who didn't enable Bush's war to pick up the phone.

Or, Batman.

Posted by gwendy | February 29, 2008 10:00 AM

my question is, "Will democratic voters respond to an ad like this?" after 7 years of this, they are sick and tired of the politics of fear. I can see it being effective perhaps in a general election, but in a democratic primary it seems that the voters may just roll their eyes at this. I feel this is especially likely given the prominent narrative of Clinton's back being against the wall. It will stink of desperation in voters' minds who are increasingly realizing Clinton is down and almost out. Anyone agree/disagree?

Posted by blue MN | February 29, 2008 10:01 AM

to quote another texas voter (lord knows i don't want to be accused of plagiarism!) if she is so much more experienced and ready than Obama, why does she keep losing?

Posted by M Lee | February 29, 2008 10:05 AM

What a thought...Hillary answering the phone in that familiar frantic manner that has become so familiar! I would much rather the calm collected demeanor of Barack Obama, with which we have all become familiar! Ready to identify the problem, see through the distractions that are characteristic during a crisis, and focus on bringing the pertinent individuals and institutions to bear in record time. Which is what he has done all across America, to the complete surprise of the Clinton campaign!

Posted by Newday | February 29, 2008 10:06 AM

What a thought of Hillary answering the phone in that familiar frantic manner that has become so familiar! I would much rather the calm collected demeanor of Barack Obama with which we have all become familiar! Ready to identify the problem see through the distractions that are characteristic during a crisis and focus on bringing the pertinent individuals and institutions to bear in record time. Which is what he has done all across America, to the surprise of the Clinton campaign!

Posted by Newday | February 29, 2008 10:08 AM

I guess Obama will wait a year before he picks up the phone. As he'll be busy with other things...excuses, excuses. He could have fixed NATO in Afganistan. But he was busy running campaigns...hmmm let the poor people suffer. I can't multi task. Boo Hoo hoo. I'll hold a discussion and take my time to decide like an undecided teenager.

Posted by Dave | February 29, 2008 10:09 AM

Every time I see something and think, "Oh no! This one is really gonna hurt!" the Obama camp comes out with something better. The McPeak ad answers this one brilliantly. They've been blocking every shot of hers for so long, it seems to come almost without effort now.

I can't wait to see him run the court with McCain.

Posted by KathyF | February 29, 2008 10:12 AM

I think it is a coordinated effort a la Rove. But I also think that as far as the Democrats are concerned that well is dry. And they don't like it when a Democrat does it to another Democrat. It is low and slimy. She is doing nothing but seal her fate. By March 5th, Democrats will be happy for her to leave the stage.

All it does it make Obama appear stronger and straighter and her weaker and more calculating.

Posted by C.B. Todd | February 29, 2008 10:13 AM

I bet the nature of that phone call involves cigars and interns in one way or another.

Posted by Lynda L. | February 29, 2008 10:13 AM

Hillary's answer: "Oh hi, have you heard my 10 point plan for that?"

Posted by KathyF | February 29, 2008 10:16 AM

TOP TEN WAYS HILLARY CLINTON RESPONDS TO A CALL AT 3AM

10. "Call Mark Penn, he'll know what to do."

9. "Shame on you, {world leader}"

8. "Does anybody know where Bill is tonight?"

7. "No, don't bother sending me the intelliegence estimate, just drop the bombs and get a poll going."

6. "Look, I can't deal with this right now. I've got a fundraiser in the morning."

5. "Once again, the playing field is not level for a woman."

4. "I think it it would be a mistake to talk to any involved world leaders myself....I don't want to give them a PR victory, you know"

3. "Tell someone to compare the rogue leader to Jesse Jackson, that should work"

2. "Allright!!!! When this happened to Bush, his approval ratings went up big time!!! And I don't even have "My Pet Goat" on the nightstand."

1. "If I cry, do you think they'll back off?"

Posted by RKA | February 29, 2008 10:17 AM

this ad WILL backfire...a woman going through menopause answering the phone at 3 in the morning? scares the hell out of me!

Posted by lebelle | February 29, 2008 10:18 AM

Yeah she'll answer the phone and scream: SHAME ON YOU FOR CALLING ME AT 3 IN THE MORNING. YOU HOLD THOSE BIG RALLIES IN THE STREETS OF YOUR CAPITAL AND THEN YOU CALL ME AT THREE IN THE MORNING. MEET ME IN WASHINGTON AND LETS HAVE A DEBATE ABOUT YOUR TACTICS!

Posted by Richard | February 29, 2008 10:19 AM

Is this an ad for Obama or Hillary?
Does Hillary and her campaign actually think that the American people would want her on the other end of that red phone?
For me this is a no-brainer.
Of course I would want the most intelligent person who is willing to talk with others about an
issue or problem. And we all know who that is! Barack Obama!

Posted by Jill | February 29, 2008 10:21 AM

If Clinton were to win the Democratic nomination, this would certainly come back to haunt her. The McCain campaign could run it repeatedly...and then suggest that on experience he is even further beyond her than she claims to be beyond Obama. Which makes it a really, really foolish thing to have done at this stage of the campaign.

In fact, the only excuse I can see for it is to try to get the question, and Obama's retort, out there now -- so he will have less trouble with the argument in the fall. But somehow I can't see that kind of public-spiritedness as the motivation.

Posted by wj | February 29, 2008 10:24 AM

"He could have fixed NATO in Afganistan."

So if Obama held a subcommittee hearing, he would have just made the Europeans contribute more troops and money?

Posted by Mek | February 29, 2008 10:25 AM

I am not impressed with many things about Barack Obama. What I am impressed with most is the fact that he listens. He LISTENS to Americans. He will continue to do so. People follow him. We need some real leadership.
No matter of experience can prepare you for the white house, unless you are already there. What is most important is listening and leadership.
That is why Barack Obama has shown wisdom and clarity in his judegments.

Posted by Kelly Pierce | February 29, 2008 10:29 AM

I can honestly say I want the calmest most reasonable and intelligent person answering that phone.

That person is Barack Obama.

This argument could eliminate both of the emotional candidates: McCain and Hill.

Posted by Chris | February 29, 2008 10:40 AM

I want the person who didn't vote to invade Iraq to answer the phone.

Posted by Stephanie | February 29, 2008 10:40 AM

Have you all seen this....

Will I Am is at it again...looks like it was released TODAY!

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ghSJsEVf0pU

Vote Hope

Posted by Ezzy | February 29, 2008 10:41 AM

Love how she's fully dressed at 3:00 am. Does she sleep in the freaking pants suit?

LMAO...good question. Maybe the pantsuit is to Bill and Hill as one of my wifes Victoria Secret numbers is to us.

Posted by Jay | February 29, 2008 10:44 AM

Yup, one of the worst ads I've seen so far. It actually looks like an anti-Hillary smear.

Posted by workisglory | February 29, 2008 10:47 AM

Damn...there's some good comedy on this thread.

Posted by Mort | February 29, 2008 10:48 AM

Is this a preview for the next Scream movie?

Posted by justjoeindenver | February 29, 2008 10:51 AM

I want Mike Huckabee answering that phone, not Hillary.

Posted by Peter | February 29, 2008 10:53 AM

"Someone who already knows the world's leaders"?

Are we talking about Hillary "Medve-whatever" Clinton?

Posted by Chris | February 29, 2008 10:55 AM

Wait I know this skit!

"George Bush: See that right there? Kind of makes you wonder whether these men have the temperament to be president. Would you tell Prime Minister Major to shut up? Would you call Boris Yeltsin a "Crackerhead"? Who wouldn't you tell to shut up? Because you see, this election is about who can take the heat, who you want there when that secured phone in the White House rings at 3 AM. Do you want someone who will answer the phone politely: "Hello, this is the President. Speak slowly and clearly and tell me what the problem is." Or do you want someone who's cranky, who says, "This better be important," or "Do you realize what time it is?" or simply says, "Shut up!" hangs up the phone and sleeps like a baby while the world burns!"

http://snltranscripts.jt.org/92/92cdebate.phtml

I think Mrs. Clinton's love with SNL goes a bit too far.

Posted by NoOne | February 29, 2008 10:59 AM

Funny... I listened to it and the answer I had come to my head with the dark and scary scenario they painted was John McCain...

Posted by sam | February 29, 2008 11:02 AM

A: "Bill, it's for you. SHe says her name is Monica. Bill? Bill?"

Posted by stevie314159 | February 29, 2008 11:05 AM

YOU MIGHT BE AN IDIOT:-)

If you think Barack Obama with little or no experience would be better than Hillary Clinton with 35 years experience.

You Might Be An Idiot!

If you think that Obama with no experience can fix an economy on the verge of collapse better than Hillary Clinton. Whose ;-) husband (Bill Clinton) led the greatest economic expansion, and prosperity in American history.

You Might Be An Idiot!

If you think that Obama with no experience fighting for universal health care can get it for you better than Hillary Clinton. Who anticipated this current health care crisis back in 1993, and fought a pitched battle against overwhelming odds to get universal health care for all the American people.

You Might Be An Idiot!

If you think that Obama with no experience can manage, and get us out of two wars better than Hillary Clinton. Whose ;-) husband (Bill Clinton) went to war only when he was convinced that he absolutely had to. Then completed the mission in record time against a nuclear power. AND DID NOT LOSE THE LIFE OF A SINGLE AMERICAN SOLDIER. NOT ONE!

You Might Be An Idiot!

If you think that Obama with no experience saving the environment is better than Hillary Clinton. Whose ;-) husband (Bill Clinton) left office with the greatest amount of environmental cleanup, and protections in American history.

You Might Be An Idiot!

If you think that Obama with little or no education experience is better than Hillary Clinton. Whose ;-) husband (Bill Clinton) made higher education affordable for every American. And created higher job demand and starting salary's than they had ever been before or since.

You Might Be An Idiot!

If you think that Obama with no experience will be better than Hillary Clinton who spent 8 years at the right hand of President Bill Clinton. Who is already on record as one of the greatest Presidents in American history.

You Might Be An Idiot!

If you think that you can change the way Washington works with pretty speeches from Obama, rather than with the experience, and political expertise of two master politicians ON YOUR SIDE like Hillary and Bill Clinton..

You Might Be An Idiot!

If you think all those Republicans voting for Obama in the Democratic primaries, and caucuses are doing so because they think he is a stronger Democratic candidate than Hillary Clinton. :-)

Best regards

jacksmith...

Posted by jacksmith | February 29, 2008 11:16 AM

This only reminds me of why I want Obama more and more. Someone that I can be proud of representing us when he meets with world leaders, who won't try to talk over them like Hillary does, who carries himself with dignity and doesn't have a sense of entitlement, but a true desire to do what is right for the American people and not his own ego, and gratification like other candidates.

Posted by Diane M | February 29, 2008 11:24 AM

jacksmith, then let Bill run, not Hillary.

Which Hillary would answer that call, ANGRY, SARCASTIC, CRYING?

Obama would answer that call and spring to action.

Obama 08

Posted by q | February 29, 2008 11:26 AM

Jacksmith,

I might be an idiot, but you are ignorant.

You could be called on every single one of these inane statements. But I'll just pick one.

"Then completed the mission in record time against a nuclear power."

Are you talking about Yugoslavia? They never had nuclear weapons. Record time? Compared to what exactly? the last time Yugoslavia was at war? Desert Storm was over quicker than Allied Force.

And two soldiers did die in an Apache helicopter crash.

and I guess you're not counting the 19 soldiers who died in Black Hawk Down later in the term.

And Hillary voted for the war in Iraq.

I could have said more on your ridiculous healthcare, economy, education and the like, but I doubt you would listen.

Posted by James | February 29, 2008 11:58 AM

RKA (@10:17): Brilliant!

Posted by Howard B. | February 29, 2008 12:03 PM

HILLARY, WHERE ARE YOUR TAX RETURNS AND WHITE HOUSE PAPERS??

I certainly would not want the frenzied, hyper-responsive and irrational Hillary Clinton answering the White House phone. Plus, I believe the point is not WHO answers the phone, but the judgment and wisdom of the decision maker who will answer the phone.

Hillary is so ready to fight, fight, fight which will lead us down a dismal path in regards to our foreign policy. We need Obama answering the phone and making smart decisions in a calm, collected and reasonable manner.

Posted by Robyn | February 29, 2008 12:08 PM

HILLARY, WHERE ARE YOUR TAX RETURNS AND WHITE HOUSE PAPERS??

I certainly would not want the frenzied, hyper-responsive and irrational Hillary Clinton answering the White House phone. Plus, I believe the point is not WHO answers the phone, but the judgment and wisdom of the decision maker who will answer the phone.

Hillary is so ready to fight, fight, fight which will lead us down a dismal path in regards to our foreign policy. We need Obama answering the phone and making smart decisions in a calm, collected and reasonable manner.

Posted by Robyn | February 29, 2008 12:08 PM

If Hillary is up, and dressed in her pantsuit, does that mean Bill is the one in your kid's room with a camera?!!

And, people, the Monica jokes are getting really old. That was a long time ago.

I'm sure he's found somebody else by now.

Posted by beach1forever | February 29, 2008 12:17 PM

Hillary Clinton's "35 years of experience" include: several years as a corporate lawyer in Arkansas for such companies as Wal-Mart; six years on the board of Wal-Mart at a time when the company was engaged in all sorts of illegal and unethical practices; a few years as Bill's wife when he was Arkansas governor; a few years as Bill's wife when he was President; and, a few more years in the U.S. Senate when she gave us such gems as a ban on flag burning and the authorization to invade Iraq.

Yeah, Hillary, the call's for you, and it's the American people saying that you shouldn't expect a coronation just because you happen to be married to Bill Clinton.

Posted by Matt K. | February 29, 2008 12:28 PM

"Is this a preview for the next Scream movie?"

My thought as well. If Saturday Night live really wanted to do some fair and balanced, they would do a skit on this.

Posted by Dawn | February 29, 2008 12:32 PM

You know I've noticed that you always call me first when there's a crisis, and I'm happy to answer. But, I just find it curious that you call me first. I am happy to answer, though.

... really.

I am.

Posted by Lynda L. | February 29, 2008 12:46 PM

ok, SNL, here's the skit. Middle of the night, phone rings, Hillary, wide awake at 3 a.m., and eating popcorn answers it.... A scary voice on the end rasps "Do you like scary opponents?" Cut to Cheney and Bush wearing TeleTubby masks and a Darth Vader voice changer making prank calls from the Oval Office....

Let me know if you need my address to send the check.

Justjoeindenver - Go ahead, Google me, I dare ya!

Posted by justjoeindenver | February 29, 2008 12:47 PM

I want somebody who started with a plan and executed a plan with confidence not somebody who could not see this campaign in it's entirety. Hillary has failed, already, in the execution of her campaign and changed 'tactics' several times when she realized it. I don't want a frantic leader if we have a crisis.

Posted by Kalaine | February 29, 2008 12:49 PM

This ad is as idiotic as Dukakis in the tank. Hillary touting crisis management? More like Hillary as crisis generator.

Posted by Elrod | February 29, 2008 12:53 PM

What is Hillary Clinton doing up late at night all the time?

She looks like she's doing her taxes.

Posted by M. L. | February 29, 2008 12:58 PM

Do you know what this ad needs?

It needs the kids to be dreaming of falling out of an airplane.

Hillary will be there to call them up and tell them to pull the rip cord before they slam into the ground.

Posted by Matt K. | February 29, 2008 1:03 PM

The first time I saw the ad the TV was on mute? It looked like the housewife was calling for a babysitter and called Hillary...

Ridiculous ad. Interestingly it seems that team that was behind Bill Clinton have largely choosen to support OBAMA. Al Gore has not lifted an eyebrow to help the Hillary campaign.

If the people that have known her for so long are not supporting her what does that tell you?

Also, if she can't manage her campaign budget, how can she manage our nation's budget?

Posted by LR | February 29, 2008 1:08 PM

The male chauvinist, misogynistic nature of these comments are truly disgusting. Obama seems "calm, cool and collected" A) because he's one of the most cocky and self-assured people in American politics, and B) because he's winning and has been doing quite well in this campaign.

He hasn't been tested by the kind of public hardship Hillary has that let's us know she can handle the pressure.

Posted by Tim K | February 29, 2008 1:13 PM

Good evening, this is the White House out-of-hours answering service...

Press One to declare war,
Press Two if you'd like recognition for your new country,
Press Three if you need someone to reassure you that they know foreign leaders and senior military figures,
Press Four if you're worried about a strange film crew in your child's bedroom,

Or hold for a representative in our offshore, outsourced call centre.

Posted by Baz | February 29, 2008 1:15 PM

Where is Al these days, anyway?
The fact that he seems to have gone totally underground on this really is telling.

Posted by beach1forever | February 29, 2008 1:15 PM

Someone in the Obama campaign should make parodies of this ad. It's perfect for that kind of treatment.

The Clintons demonstrate, once again, that they will say and do anything to get elected.

Using fear to cloud the judgment of voters and to scare up votes is the kind of Bush-Clinton politics that Democrats, independents, and disaffected Republicans have been rejecting in unprecedented numbers across the country.

Now, the Democratic party needs to persuade the nation to reject Bush-McCain policies, too.

Posted by M. L. | February 29, 2008 1:46 PM

Hillary..didn't you know that the red phone rang and it asked you what to do on Iraq and you answered INVADE..don't you remember..this is a shameful reminder of just how out of touch you are.

Posted by Jerry | February 29, 2008 2:03 PM

It's hilarious that she's implying that the rest of the world's leaders won't know who they're talking to when they're called by the President of the United States unless *she's* the POTUS! What's up with that?! "What? WHO is this calling again? President Who? I'm sorry, I don't know anybody by that name. You must have the wrong number!"

Posted by cd26west | February 29, 2008 2:35 PM

Hillary answering the phone when she won't even release her White House records of "experience" and voted for an historical military mistake?
Hello? No I don't know Where he is. How should I know what to do? Let's wait for the poll results. This is all the media's fault. sniff sniff. And Shame on you for waking me up. Everything can wait now that I have the Power.

Posted by Mary | February 29, 2008 2:39 PM

Something's happening in the world. It's 03:00 O'clock in the morning. For some reason I'm fully clothed; another bimbo eruption? No, Bill's downstairs, I can hear the TV. Mrs. President, it's the pizza delivery boy ... what should I do? Quick, put him on speaker: click, where the hell are you?

Anybody remember how grateful we all were, because the Cold War was over when the Clintons were in the White House? We were lucky then, and we knew it. The Texas ad isn't fear mongering, so much as it is just plain ludicrous. It's comedic. Who do you want answering the phone? Three guesses: http://theseedsof9-11.com

Posted by Peggy McGilligan | February 29, 2008 2:49 PM

I was feeling pretty bad and hopeless after watching this ad. I posted the following thought on Huffington post. I was glad that people rallied around me and it was reassuring to say the least.
Here's the post-
I am an Indian American liberal woman who looks like an Arab. I lost all hope today. I had pinned all my hopes and my children's on the democratic party. I thought they would never appeal to the worst demons in people's minds which by way of this ad she has.Live in fear, they are saying. I'm sure I'll be getting more than a dirty look from my neighbor after this.I am shattered.

Posted by nuana | February 29, 2008 3:32 PM

Hey jacksmith....stop "copy pasting" your generic post all over the blogosphere. I've seen this more than once and just like Hillary, it's getting pretty old. If "experience" is what we wanted Hillary wouldn't be where she's at now. Instead it would be Biden or Richardson. Face it, Hillary has poorly managed her campaign and overpaid her advisors. Once again, bad judgment all around. I know who I want answering that phone....OBAMA!!!!

Posted by OverIt | February 29, 2008 3:52 PM

"Arguably it's her best argument against Obama" -- that's not saying much.

Posted by ((()))) | February 29, 2008 3:54 PM

When during Hillary's alleged 35 of years of experience has she ever been "tested" on foreign policy?

Ironically, the ad would cause most viewers to select John McCain -- not Clinton or Obama -- as the person they'd most want to pick up the phone!

In any case, back in 2004, Bill Clinton addressed the issue of political campaigns that use fear for political advantage:

"One of Clinton's laws of politics is, if one candidate is trying to scare you, and the other one is trying to make you think, if one candidate's appealing to your fears, and the other one's appealing to your hopes... you better vote for the person who wants you to think and hope."

Source:
http://www.nytimes.com/2004/10/25/politics/campaign/25cnd-clinton.html?pagewanted=print&position=

Posted by Bill | February 29, 2008 3:55 PM

Why is this more edgy than saying than calling the other candidate a liar and over ambitious. She talks about issues, he does personality degradation. But he does it better than her which makes him popular with the sitcom crowd, but not right.

Posted by Mark Smith | February 29, 2008 4:11 PM

Why is this more edgy than saying she is a liar and over ambitious. She talks about issues, he does personality degradation. But he does it better than her which makes him popular with the sitcom crowd, but not right.

Posted by Mark Smith | February 29, 2008 4:12 PM

Excellent ad. I predict this will help her to win Texas, and, combined with solid victories in Ohio and Rhode Island, Hillary will be on her way to the White House. GO HILLARY!

Posted by jacksmithisright | February 29, 2008 4:15 PM

I'm sorry, but just when did Bill's experience and expertise become hers? Did it somehow jump off him and land on her? Maybe that is the type of thing you can get by being married to someone or living in the same household. Isn't this saying that he will be president for four more years?

I'm all the more certain who I want to be my Democratic Candidate, who I want answering that phone.....and it is NOT Hillary/Bill Clinton.

Posted by Sade' Ali | February 29, 2008 4:42 PM

Mark Smith: Please provide ONE example when Senator Obama has engaged in personality degradation. Did he call her naive on national tv? Did he investigate her kindergarten teacher and her junior high identity crisis? Did his staff send smear e-mails against her? Did his staff send out a former President on the campaign trail to say she was promising the voters false hope, or call her hard work in the Senate a "fairy tale?" Oh, thats right that was Hillary! All Hillary knows is attack, and tear down. She will keep us in war like no other President in history.

With President Barack Obama there will be fewer crises because he approaches challenges with an attitude of what is possible.

Posted by Samantha | February 29, 2008 4:43 PM

There is no doubt in my mind that I would want Mr. Obama to answer the phone - someone who would answer in a new way not a way that incites more hatred for us and more danger for the whole world.

Posted by Kathy Anderson | February 29, 2008 5:01 PM

Senator Clinton has little more time in the Senate than Senetor Obama, what a 2-3 years perhaps? Now, how does that relate to more experience? Perhaps she is counting her time as First Lady in Washington and Arkansas? Was she a big policy maker holding those positions? No, the one thing she attempted (National Health Care), was shot down and never got it off the ground. She had 8 years to get that going and she could not do it. Perhaps it is because she was a Senator in the state of New York at the time of 9/11? I recall her walking around ground zero with her hardhat on, so what!!!! I believe it was the Republican Mayor who was at the helm of that city during those times and not Senator Clinton. Certainly, she would not say that her law firm time gives her an edge? Senator Obama has the same credentials in regards to his law background. Hilary is a bit Obama's senior by maybe 12 years, but again, I do not see this as a factor. Look, can we all be honest? Hilary Clinton put up with Bill running around on her for years while they were in Arkansas, and she knew it! Then during his Presidential run, they did that cozy little interview, both of them holding hands, she at his side supporting him all the way, in spite of the fact that she new his reckless behavior would continue, even into the White House. Then when he got busted with Monica, she stood there while he lied to all of us, and she inisited on his innocence, again, simply supporting him because it benefited her. I do not want that again in our White House. I want someone in there with the highest integrity, one who respects the title and position as Commander in Chief. It was humiliating for this country, and yes, when you are the President, you are held to a higher standard, and the people that vote for you expect it. I believe her marriage to Bill is based on convenience and a political partnership that has benefited both of them in many ways. Somewhere, there is love, and I do believe that, but by and large, it has been for professional advancement. She has been riding on his magic carpet all these years and it is time for her to get off. You know, if Hilary Clinton could not take a stand with her own husband, in her own marriage where it mattered the most, how are we supposed to believe that she will be able to make the right decisions when it comes to this country. Her judgement in her own personal life has been less than stellar. I do not want her making decisions for me or for this country. Senator Obama is calm and cool. I trust his judgment, as I feel it will be well thought out. I believe him to be a man of his word and a man with strong moral character and integrity. Unlike Senator Clinton who I feel will make emotional decisions based on how it will benefit her and her family. She is no Bill Clinton that is for sure. However, when she opens her mouth, all I can hear is him. Granted, as a political partnership and husband and wife, they will agree on many things, but she has yet to show me that she is an individual, separate from him, and that she can stand on her own two feet without him, emotionally or otherwise. Don't get me wrong, I voted for Bill twice, but I am over the Clinton's and I am ready for change. Sincere change at that.

Regards to all

Posted by Julie Smith | February 29, 2008 8:10 PM

Obama's new ad in response: http://link.brightcove.com/services/player/bcpid353515028?bctid=1438426955

This kind of fast work bodes well for the general election campaign.

Is it my imagination, or does the announcer here sound a little bit like John McCain??

Posted by JL | February 29, 2008 9:12 PM

Fear Mongering Anyone?

Did somebody from the Bush politcal team dream up the Red Phone ad?

"One of Clinton's laws of politics is, if one candidate is trying to scare you, and the other one is trying to make you think, if one candidate's appealing to your fears, and the other one's appealing to your hopes. You better vote for the person who wants you to think and hope."
Bill Clinton October 25, 2004

Personally I'm going to follow Bill's advice!

Obama 08

Posted by Mike | March 1, 2008 12:36 AM

Obama Response Timeline
3 AM Phone rings
3:01 Tells Michelle to go back to sleep and stop complaining that she can't be proud of her country if she has to get woken up at 3AM
3:10 Puts caller on hold to call Deval to find out what words are important in this situation
3:20 Thanks Deval and calls the staff member that holds the important papers until 2 minutes before he needs them
3:30 Staff arrives with papers
3:45 Finishes reading papers and briefing documents
3:46 Reconnects caller and says what Deval said to say and concludes with Yes We Can.

Posted by Dan | March 1, 2008 9:37 AM

If it were me to decide, I would hope the phone never rings at 3am. But I most certainly do not want obama man taking the call. because if it were him. It would be about another city in america suffering from another crime story to bizarre to imagine...vote McCain in november and keep this once great nation at least on one foot.

Posted by jack webber | March 1, 2008 3:24 PM

Since when did obama become the man ....african american?...I thought some white blood or something other than black is running through his veins. Why is this man so decidedly black. The black community is so blatantly responding to skin color when it was the clinton administration who helped the black community in a big way. Some way to say thanks to a person who cares. May God bless bill and Hillary clinton. Because when push comes to shove if this becomes a racial campaign, Mr McCain will win...

Posted by jon stapler (texas) | March 1, 2008 3:35 PM

Thanks to most of you for some of the most entertaining and "truth in jest" reading, I've encountered so far. Now, I know where to come for brilliant reader response. I laughed and I learned! Thank you!

If you have a way, please act out the most humorous of the above comments and post them to iTube. Then let the Obama campaign know.

I attended my first grassroots Obama event today and it was filled to the rafters with the most diverse group I've seen anywhere.

If only Christian congregations looked like this on Sundays! Now that would be a powerful testament to our faith, Christans! Jesus was born at the crossroads and his message is meant for all.

God bless you all,
JW

Posted by JW | March 1, 2008 5:36 PM

Thanks to most of you for some of the most entertaining and "truth in jest" reading, I've encountered so far. Now, I know where to come for brilliant reader response. I laughed and I learned! Thank you!

If you have a way, please act out the most humorous of the above comments and post them to iTube. Then let the Obama campaign know.

I attended my first grassroots Obama event today and it was filled to the rafters with the most diverse group I've seen anywhere.

If only Christian congregations looked like this on Sundays! Now that would be a powerful testament to our faith, Christans! Jesus was born at the crossroads and his message is meant for all.

God bless you all,
JW