Clinton will March in Selma on Sunday

Hillary Clinton will be in Selma, Alabama this Sunday to take part in the annual march to commemorate the voting rights marches in 1965.

Hillary will join Civil Rights veterans (and Barack Obama) on the walk across the Edmund Pettus Bridge.

The Selma to Montgomery voting rights marches in 1965 drew international attention when Governor George Wallace ordered state troopers to break up the demonstrations. Troopers used sticks, whips and tear gas to disperse the crowd - all of which was captured on footage shown around the world.

The march was a major turning point for the Civil Rights movement, contributing to the introduction of the Voting Rights Act of 1965.

Clinton Raises One Million in One Week

Hillary Clinton has succeeded in raising one million dollars in the last week.

With email requests to supporters from her husband Bill Clinton, as well as James Carville and Madeleine Albright, donations came in from across the country.

Clinton plans to raise $75 million by the end of this year.

Hillary Clinton's Latest Hillcast

Hillary Clinton has released her latest Hillcast, a video message "conversation" series. Last week she spoke about her plan for Iraq.

Today, the Hillcast is dedicated to energy, where Clinton details her plan "..to create a Strategic Energy Fund to tackle America's energy challenges."

Head to Clinton's site here to watch the Hillcast.

Hillary Leads in Zogby Poll

Hillary Clinton leads Barack Obama in the latest Zogby International poll released yesterday.

The poll of 439 Democrats between February 22 and 24 shows Clinton on 33% with Obama on 25% as preferred Democratic nominee. Former Vice Presidential candidate John Edwards was third on 12%.

Although Clinton is up 4% on the previous poll in January, Obama has risen 11%.

And in a worrying sign for the Clinton camp, in a poll of 1078 likely voters, she trails both John McCain and Rudy Giuliani as preferred President. Hillary does have a solid lead on Mitt Romney.

On the same question, Barack Obama leads all three leading Republican candidates.

Clinton Secures Key Kerry Supporters

The decision by John Kerry to count himself out of the race for the Democratic nomination has left an extensive range of his political supporters and fundraisers up for grabs.

Although one of Kerry's largest donors in New England, Alan D Solomont has already committed to Barack Obama, many of the others are heading Hillary's way.

So far, the Clinton camp has secured:

Former chairman of the Democratic National Committee - Steve Grossman
John Kerry's New England finance director in 2004 - Jonathan Patsavos
Boston philanthropists - Elaine Shuster, Barbara Lee and Swanee Hunt.
Chair of Kerry's Rhode Island fundraising in 2004 - Mark Weiner
Chair of Kerry's Maine fundraising in 2004 - Anthony Buxton

Hillary's First Campaign Blog Post

Hillary Clinton has written the following post for the campaign blog. This is her first post, and follows up from the Hillcast video she released last Sunday.

It's now just over a month that I have been in to win.

It's been exciting and challenging and fun all at the same time. The people I have met have been terrific.

And we decided day one that this campaign would live as much on the web as in the living rooms - and the opening of the blog is just another in the many web firsts in this campaign, following the unprecedented announcement and three straight nights of live video chats.

I believe that the web is not only creating new forms of political dialogue but offering a new wave of opportunity for all Americans - and one of my highest priorities will be to make us number one again in the world in broadband. If we are not at the forefront of the web as a nation, we simply will not be able to keep up our role as the world's leading innovator. Net Neutrality is something that I am also fighting for now in the Senate so that the web remains open and democratic.

I appreciate the hundreds of thousands of you who are participating on this site in one form or another. This is truly the dialogue decade, and through the miracle of technology I can talk WITH you, not just at you. I will be holding more web chats soon, and I have started a "HillCast," a regular web broadcast that will be about some of the most important issues I am tackling. The first one was on my plan to end the war in Iraq and the next one will be on the energy crisis we are facing. I believe campaigns are about ideas - and how together we turn those ideas into action.

I have been reading through the comments you all have been making - many of them encouraging, some critical and some with great suggestions - all of them are appreciated. We have gotten off to an exceptional start, and in the coming months I look forward to talking with you more about my specific plans to restore what I call the promise of America, and I will look forward to your comments. Hopefully I will also see you out there on the campaign trail.

To make a comment, head to Hillary's website here.

Clinton Statement on Vilsack Withdrawal

Hillary Clinton has released the following statement regarding the withdrawal of former Iowa Governor Tom Vilsack from the race for the Democratic nomination.

“I have been proud to work with Tom Vilsack for years on the challenges facing our country, and I have a deep admiration for both Tom and Christie.

“Tom has made Iowa a leader in renewable energy and created thousands of jobs as one of America’s great governors. We share a passion for protecting America’s young people through expanded health care options, early childhood education initiatives and opening the doors to higher education to every American."

“I know he will continue to contribute to the dialogue about how to move America forward.”

One Week One Million for Clinton

The Hillary Clinton campaign are attempting to raise $1 million in one week from grassroots supporters across the country.

The attempt kicked off with an appeal from President Bill Clinton:

"Hillary's campaign is off to a great start. And this week, we're going to help take it to another level. Our goal: to demonstrate the range and breadth of Hillary's support by raising one million dollars in grassroots donations in a week's time."

It was followed up by James Carville, who reported that day 1 had netted over $285,000.

"Let's show these attack dogs what we're made of. Our "One Week, One Million" campaign will send a clear message: Hillary won't back down, and we've got her back."

For the next five days, prominent Hillary supporters will be making appeals to supporters.

Wolfson Attacks Obama

Hillary Clinton's communications director Howard Wolfson appeared this morning on Hardball with Chris Matthews. He is responding to the comments by David Geffen about the Clintons.

Hard to know if this is a good strategy by the Clinton campaign. Wolfson appears just a little too serious and concerned, and the criticism will now come that perhaps Clinton is a a bit precious.

Check him out here.

Clinton and Obama Argue over Donor

The campaigns of Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama today argued over the support of David Geffen, the Dreamworks movie studio founder.

Last night, Geffen, Jeffrey Katzenberg and Stephen Spielberg organized a fundraiser for Obama in Hollywood which netted his campaign around $1.3 million.

Today it was reported that Geffen made some comments to the New York Times which incensed the Clinton team. He said that Hillary Clinton was a polarizing and ambitious figure, and that Bill Clinton was a reckless guy.

The Clinton camp hit back, with Communications Director Howard Wolfson issuing a strongly worded press statement:

"While Senator Obama was denouncing slash and burn politics yesterday, his campaign's finance chair was viciously and personally attacking Senator Clinton and her husband.

"If Senator Obama is indeed sincere about his repeated claims to change the tone of our politics, he should immediately denounce these remarks, remove Mr. Geffen from his campaign and return his money."

Then the Obama camp responded, with Communications director Robert Gibbs issuing his own statement:

"We aren't going to get in the middle of a disagreement between the Clinton's and someone who was once one of their biggest supporters. It is ironic that the Clinton's had no problem with David Geffen when he was raising them $18 million and sleeping at their invitation in the Lincoln bedroom."

Gibbs then went on to refer to the remarks made by South Carolina State Senator Robert Ford, who said that if Obama was to win the nomination, the Democrats would lose the House, the Senate and the Governors, because he is black.

In his statement Gibbs said that "It is also ironic that Senator Clinton lavished praise on Monday and is fully willing to accept today the support of South Carolina state Sen. Robert Ford, who said if Barack Obama were to win the nomination, he would drag down the rest of the Democratic Party because 'he's black'."

That's not a bad point. We understand that Geffen is not the campaign finance chair, as alleged by Wolfson. Therefore his comments are those of a private individual and donor to the Obama campaign. Asking for the money to be returned is taking things a little too far.

But, as with any issue involving the Obama and Clinton campaigns, this will have a little way to go yet. Let's wait and see what Clinton and Obama have to say today during their campaign stops.

Clinton is in Carson City for the candidates forum, while Obama will be in Iowa tonight for a rally.

Hillary Clinton Campaigns in Florida

Hillary Clinton spent yesterday campaigning in Florida, in her first visit to the state since she announced her decision to seek the Democratic nomination.

Clinton was in Liberty City at the Joseph Caleb Community Center, where she spoke to about 200 locals and community activists. Earlier in the day, she was at a fundraising breakfast in Tampa, followed by some meet and greets at 2 private homes. Last night, Clinton attended a major fundraising event, where she raised over $300,000.

And while in Florida, Clinton announced some key local endorsements for her campaign, including Congresswoman Debbie Wasserman Schultz and Congressman Alcee Hastings.

Hastings said that when Hillary Clinton is elected "...this country will be a much better place for the African-American community, Floridians and all Americans."

Other local officials supporting Clinton include:

State Senator - Nan Rich
Former Tampa Mayor - Sandy Freedman
Pembroke Pines Mayor - Frank Ortis
Parkland Mayor - Michael Udine
Former Executive Director of Florida Democratic Party - Ana Cruz

Rory Reid Signs Up to Clinton

The former Chairman of the Nevada State Democratic Party and son of Senate Majority Leader, Harry Reid has signed up to the Hillary Clinton campaign for President.

Rory Reid will be a senior adviser to the Clinton campaign on western issues. This will include public lands, transportation, resources and conservation, growth and affordable housing.

Senator Harry Reid has issued a statement to say that although he respects his son's decision, it should not be seen as an endorsement by him.

Hillary Defends Jackson Endorsement

Hillary Clinton today defended the endorsement of South Carolina State Senator who was awarded a paid consulting contract to assist the Clinton campaign.

Jackson defended his position last week, saying that the reason he endorsed Hillary Clinton was because she was the best person to take the White House for the Democrats. He also said that other candidates had offered his consulting firm more money, but he chose to go with Clinton.

Clinton today said that there was no conflict of interest in the appointment of Jackson's consulting firm. She told AP that "Senator Jackson was someone who was involved in my husband's campaigns. He was someone we turned to for political advice and counsel and I'm proud to have him on my team."

Jackson, who endorsed John Edwards in 2004, today introduced Hillary Clinton at her visit to Allen University in Columbia.

More Endorsements For Clinton

Hillary Clinton spent a busy day campaigning in South Carolina, and along the way picked up some more key endorsements from prominent locals.

Clinton started the Day at Allen University in Columbia, followed by a visit to Florence to attend a a BBQ lunch hosted by local Mayor Frank Willis.

This evening, Clinton was in Charleston to attend a function in honour of House Majority Whip, Jim Clyburn.

In addition to State Senators Ford and Jackson, who announced their support for Clinton last week, other South Carolina Representatives today endorsed her bid for the nomination.

They include:
Former Legislative Black Caucus Chairs State Rep. David J. Mack III (North Charleston) and State Rep. John Scott Jr. (Columbia)
State Representative Terry Alexander (Florence)
Former State Senator Maggie Glover (Florence)

Also endorsing Hillary Clinton today were a number of Councilmen and Councilwomen from Richland County and Charleston County.

Clinton Says Remove Confederate Flag

Campaigning today in South Carolina, Hillary Clinton has joined other Democratic Presidential hopefuls Joe Biden and Chris Dodd in calling for the Confederate Flag which flies in the Statehouse Grounds to be removed.

Clinton used the argument that America should unite under one banner during a time of war.

Senator Bill Clinton from New York?

Rumors are flying this morning that if Hillary Clinton was to win the Presidency in 2008, former President Bill Clinton could be nominated to fill her place in the Senate in New York.

The replacement is nominated by the Governor of the State, in this case a Democrat, Eliot Spitzer.

In the case of Hillary winning, the replacement Senator would fill the position from 2008 until a special election in 2010. The position would then continue for a 2 year term until the scheduled election in 2012.

Would Bill be interested? It would be a pay cut, but what better place to help Hillary than on the floor of the Senate. And it's not like he doesn't have the experience.

So what would the title be? First Man and Senator?

No comment so far from the former President...but then again, there is still a way to go yet.

3000 at Allen University for Clinton

Over 3000 people came this morning to Allen University, South Carolina to see Hillary Clinton in her first campaign stop to the key southern state since announcing her bid for the nomination.

South Carolina has had a busy weekend, with Presidential hopefuls Barack Obama, Chris Dodd and John McCain all campaigning here.

Clinton's First Hillcast on Iraq

Hillary Clinton has commenced what will be a weekly "Hillcast", by discussing the Iraq Troop Protection and Reduction Act. She introduced the bill to the Senate on Friday, which she calls a roadmap out of Iraq.

Watch it here.

Clinton Back in New Hampshire Today

Hillary Clinton was this morning in Dover, New Hampshire, in her second visit to the Granite State in a week.

Clinton gave a speech at the Dover Elks Club, the same place that her husband Bill spoke at in 1992 when his campaign for the nomination was under some pressure. The speech he gave was widely credited as getting him back into the race.

Clinton this afternoon will head back to Washington to vote on the Iraq Senate Resolution which was passed by the House on Thursday. This is only the 5th time in 10 years that the Senate has convened on a Saturday.

Hillary Clinton has had to cancel a planned visit to Portsmouth this afternoon. Apparently her staff told her that she would have to cancel her visit to Dover, but she refused.

Nader Might Run Against Clinton

If Hillary Clinton were to win the Democratic nomination to run for President, Ralph Nader has indicated that he might throw his hat into the ring yet again.

Nader is very critical of Clinton and said yesterday that she is just another bad version of her husband Bill.

Nader said that Clinton has no political fortitude and she "...flatters, panders, coasting, front-runner, looking for a coronation, not taking on the huge waste in the military budget as a member of the armed services commission, never going after the corporate crimes against pensions, against workers."

Ralph Nader ran as a candidate in the 2000 election and secured over 2.5% of the national vote. He was widely criticised at the time for contributing to a Bush victory over Vice President Al Gore.

Bill Clinton to Host Hillary Dinner

Hillary Clinton will have a special host at a fundraising dinner in New York on March 21 - her husband and former President Bill Clinton.

The event is apparently going to be held at the New York Sheraton, with the price of entry at least $1000 a head. To get better seats, expect to pay $2300 a head or for a premium seat, $4600 a head.

This appears to be the first announcement of the help of Bill for the Hillary campaign. Up until this point, Bill has been happy to stay out of the limelight.

As the race goes on, keeping him there wont be so easy.

Questions Raised About Clinton Supporter

South Carolina State Senator Darrell Jackson who only days ago threw his support behind Hillary Clinton, has been asked questions as to the motives behind his support.

Jackson's consulting firm, Sunrise Enterprises has been awarded a $10,000 per month contract to work for the Clinton campaign. Jackson had said a day before the contract was announced that he would be endorsing Clinton.

Sunrise Enterprises specialises in advertising and public relations.

Jackson has said that questions as to his motives were a low blow. He said the timing of the announcements were unfortunate, but that other candidates had also approached the company for support, some even offering more money.

Jackson said that he supports Clinton because she is the best person to take the Democrats to the election in 2008.

This is hardly the news that Clinton needs just days before she makes her first campaign stop in South Carolina.

Clinton Extends Lead in USA Today Poll

Hillary Clinton leads Barack Obama in the latest poll by USA Today, released yesterday. The poll was conducted between 9 and 11 January and surveyed 495 Democrat or Democrat leaning voters.

Clinton is preferred Democrat nominee by 40% of respondents, compared to Barack Obama on 21%. The same poll conducted 12-14 January had Clinton leading Obama 29%-18%.

Al Gore was third in the poll on 14% with John Edwards close behind on 13%.

And in a straight contest between Clinton and Obama, Hillary leads 62%-33%, extending the lead she had in the January poll, 53%-39%.

Clinton also leads as the preferred President over John McCain 50%-47%, but falls just behind Rudy Giuliani 48%-50%.

In a promising sign for the Clinton camp, 58% of people have a positive view of Clinton, and 60% think she would make a good President.

Key South Carolina Leaders Back Clinton

Two key black State Senators who backed John Edwards for the Democratic nomination in 2004 have thrown their support behind Hillary Clinton in her campaign to be President.

Robert Ford and Darrell Jackson think that Hillary Clinton is the only Democrat who can win the Presidency.

However, Ford has made some comments which seem a little out of place for a black leader in South Carolina.

Ford said that although he liked Obama, he believed that if he was the nominee, the Democrats would lose the House, the Senate and the Governors because Obama is black. He also said that although he is a gambling man, he isn't going to kill himself.

Well, there you go.

Jackson said that Edwards has had his chance, and it is time to move on to someone new. Edwards won the South Carolina primary in 2004.

The Clinton campaign has welcomed the support of Ford and Jackson.

South Carolina will be the first southern Democrat primary state in 2008. Both Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama will be campaigning there in the next week.

Clinton Hits Back At Obama

Hillary Clinton has this morning hit back at Barack Obama over his claims about her position on Iraq. Ok, check out the following statement from Clinton.

This is sure to be the story of the day.

hillaryclinton.com

2/13/07
Fact Check: Hillary Has Long Supported Phased Redeployment

"Senator Obama is mistaken. Senator Clinton has long been on record in favor of a phased redeployment of our troops. In fact both she and Senator Obama voted in 2005 to begin such a withdrawal." -- Howard Wolfson

CLAIM
YESTERDAY, SEN. OBAMA CLAIMED HILLARY DOES NOT SUPPORT PHASED REDEPLOYMENT FROM IRAQ: "I think the difference is -- and now again, I don't want to speak for her or her bill -- my understanding is that she calls for a cap on troops levels but does not begin a phased redeployment. And so that's a pretty substantial difference." [Barack Obama, 2/12/07]

FACT

IN NOVEMBER 2005, HILLARY AND SEN. OBAMA VOTED FOR PHASED REDEPLOYMENT: "A campaign plan with estimated dates for the phased redeployment of the United States Armed Forces from Iraq as each condition is met, with the understanding that unexpected contingencies may arise." [Vote #322, To clarify and recommend changes to the policy of the United States on Iraq and to require reports on certain matters relating to Iraq, 11/15/05]

IN JUNE 2006, HILLARY AND SEN. OBAMA VOTED FOR PHASED REDEPLOYMENT: "The amendment calls for the beginning of a phased redeployment of U.S. forces from Iraq by the end of the year. Senators Dianne Feinstein, D-CA, and Ken Salazar, D-CO, are cosponsors of the amendment." [Vote #182, To state the sense of Congress on United States policy on Iraq, 6/22/06]

IN SPEECH TO COUNCIL ON FOREIGN RELATIONS, HILLARY CALLED FOR PHASED REDEPLOYMENT: "And thirdly, we do need to begin, I had hoped by the end of this year, a phased redeployment. I joined Senators Levin and Reed, and the Democratic leadership in the Senate and House, in proposing a phased redeployment of U.S. troops from Iraq during this year, 2006." [Council on Foreign Relations, 10/31/06]

IN RESPONSE TO IRAQ STUDY GROUP, HILLARY CALLED FOR PHASED REDEPLOYMENT: "Today’s report from the Iraq Study Group shows the growing bipartisan consensus that we need a dramatic change of course in Iraq, including a redeployment of American troops." [Statement, 12/6/06]

IN RESPONSE TO BUSH IRAQ SPEECH, HILLARY CALLED FOR PHASED REDEPLOYMENT: "I continue to urge a strategy that places pressure on the Iraqi government to resolve the political crisis through phased redeployment of U.S. troops, establishes an Iraqi Oil Trust to end the stalemate over oil, and pursues an aggressive diplomatic strategy including an international conference of the regional parties to further the task of Iraq’s stability." [Statement, 1/10/07]

ON TODAY SHOW, HILLARY CALLED FOR BILL THAT CAPS TROOPS AND BEGINS PHASED REDEPLOYMENT: "I support putting a cap on the number of American troops as of January 1st. I support the beginning of a phased redeployment out of Baghdad and eventually out of Iraq completely." [Today Show, 1/17/07]

IN PRESS CONFERENCE AFTER VISIT TO IRAQ, HILLARY CALLED FOR PHASED REDEPLOYMENT: "In Iraq, the prescription is the opposite. Rather than an escalation of U.S. troops, which I do not believe will contribute to long-term success in Iraq, we should be beginning a phased redeployment of U.S. troops as a way to put pressure on the Iraqi government to take responsibility for its own security and future." [Press Conference, 1/17/07]

Defending Clinton's Iraq Position

Terry McCauliffe, Chairman of Hillary Clinton for President, appeared yesterday on CNN's Late Edition with Wolf Blitzer. In the video below, he makes a good defense of Hillary's position. He also takes a good swipe at the Australian Prime Minister after his comments on Obama and the Democrats on Sunday, saying that "we don't care what he says."

Iraq Focus for Clinton in New Hampshire

Hillary Clinton wrapped up her tour of New Hampshire this evening, but was hampered throughout the weekend by repeated questions about her previous stance on the Iraq War.

On a weekend where much of the media attention was focused on another candidate, this was not the kind of trip Clinton had wanted for her first visit to the Granite State in 10 years.

Clinton was at Keene High School this afternoon, where over 2500 people came to hear her speak.

At every event, Clinton was asked about her position on the Iraq war, and whether she would admit that she made a mistake. She continues to repeat her assertion that she would not have authorized the war if she knew then what she knows now.

However, Barack Obama, having just announced his candidacy has appeared to emphasise the difference between the two on the Iraq issue. Obama continues to make the point that he was against the war in Iraq from the start.

But he has gone further, saying that even in 2002 it was possible to know that the war would not work out well. Obama also said that he wasn't clear on Hillary Clinton's policy in Iraq, saying that beyond wanting to end the war at the start of the next Presidential term, he didn't know what her plan was to accomplish that.

This issue for Clinton appears to be getting bigger - not only is Obama seemingly on her heels, but third favorite John Edwards is taking a similar approach, speaking constantly about how he made a mistake in 2002 to authorize the war.

Clinton is tough though - she might yet stick it out. However, if this issue doesn't let up, she might be well advised to cut her losses, say she made a mistake, and move on. There is still nearly 12 months to go.

Although she leads in the polls, this is an unwelcome distraction, and one she could do without as she travels around the country.

Spielberg For Hillary Clinton

Reports are emerging that Steven Spielberg may be hosting a fundraiser for Hillary Clinton in the near future.

It was thought, and previously reported that Spielberg would be an Obama supporter. His colleagues David Geffen and Jeffrey Katzenberg are hosting a fundraiser for Barack Obama on February 20. Steven Spielberg was originally to have been a part of that event.

Spielberg was a big supporter of Bill Clinton during his Presidency.

Hillary Clinton in New Hampshire

Hillary Clinton spent yesterday campaigning in New Hampshire, in her first visit to the granite state in 10 years.

Clinton started the day in Berlin, greeted by 500 people, 200 of which spilled over into a nearby hall because of a lack of space.

However, Clinton was faced with tough questions on the Iraq issue, with one local asking her to admit finally that her Senate vote to authorize the war was a mistake. But Clinton said that the mistakes were made by the President who had misled the Congress and the country.

Hillary Clinton also labelled the Bush Administration, arrogant and incompetent.

Later in the day, Clinton appeared at Concord High School in front of at least 3000 people.

Clinton's visit this weekend will be overshadowed somewhat nationally by the Barack Obama announcement yesterday morning in Springfield, Illinois and his busy schedule in Iowa and New Hampshire on Monday.

And the pressure that Hillary is under due to her reluctance to admit a mistake on the Iraq vote, stands in contrast to Obama's continued reference to the fact that he has been against the war from the start.

Clinton will tomorrow be attending a series of house parties in New Hampshire, followed by a visit to Keene High School at 4pm.

Hillary Clinton Tackles Health Care

Hillary Clinton released the following statement on health care on Wednesday. John Edwards has appeared to take the lead on health issues in the last week. Following on from his call last Friday at the DNC, Edwards released his plan for universal health coverage on Monday.

Clinton, who has long been seen as a leader on health care, will no doubt be speaking more about the issue in coming weeks.

Washington, DC -- In response to today's formation of the "Better Health Care Together" campaign, Hillary Clinton released the following statement praising the coalition's announcement:

"The worst kept secret in America is that the health care system is not working for the vast majority of people in our country. Costs are spiraling out of control, already high premiums are getting higher and health care is getting further and further out of reach for millions of uninsured and underinsured Americans. Universal health care is not only a moral and health imperative, but an economic and jobs imperative as well.

"I have learned from experience that we cannot achieve the goal of health care for every American if we don't have buy-in from employers, government, and labor. Today's announcement by America's largest employer and some of America's largest unions, along with organizations from across the political spectrum, is one more piece of evidence that there's broad agreement that Americans deserve a health care system that covers everyone and lowers costs.

"Passage of a universal health coverage plan will be one of my top priorities as President. It is time for bold yet practical solutions and I will use today's encouraging news to continue my efforts to build support for universal health care."

South Carolina for Clinton Feb 19

Hillary Clinton will be heading to the first southern primary state, South Carolina on February 19.

Barack Obama will beat her there by a couple of days, so it's sure to be a busy few days for the Palmetto State. Obama will be in Colombia and Orangeburg on February 16 and 17.

The Clinton camp are yet to release details of her trip.

Adding to the attention over that week will be Chris Dodd, who will be campaigning in Colombia and some of the eastern counties on February 17.

And John McCain will be there on the same day as Clinton, campaigning in Hilton Head Island.

John Edwards campaigned here Thursday at a town hall meeting, where over 500 people attended. He ran a similar meeting in Colombia at the end of last year, which over 1800 people attended.

Edwards won the primary in South Carolina in 2004, and is expected to do well again here.

However, both Clinton and Obama will be doing their best to make a serious dent on Edwards support over the coming months.

Hillary Clinton and Trousers

Ok, is politics getting to the ridiculous when suggestions are being made on what Clinton should be wearing? Well, Donatella Versace has some suggestions for Hillary, and she is saying that the trousers are wrong, and dresses and skirts are the go.

Right. Not really what its all about, is it?

BERLIN (Reuters) - U.S. presidential candidate Hillary Clinton should tap into her feminine side and wear dresses and skirts instead of trousers, fashion designer Donatella Versace was quoted as saying on Thursday.

"I can understand (trousers) are comfortable but she's a woman and she is allowed to show that," Versace told Germany's weekly newspaper Die Zeit in an interview.

"She should treat femininity as an opportunity and not try to emulate masculinity in politics," Versace said.

Skirts should reach to the knee and be worn with a short jacket or coat, she said. The best colour would be black rather than the blue Clinton currently favours, she added.

"I admire her for her determination, which will hopefully take her to the White House," Versace told the paper.

Clinton to Nevada Feb 21

Hillary Clinton will be attending a forum for Democrat candidates in Carson City, Nevada on February 21.

Other confirmed candidates attending the event are Joe Biden, John Edwards, Chris Dodd, Bill Richardson, Tom Vilsack and Mike Gravel. Wes Clark, who is expected to announce a bid for the nomination, will also be in attendance.

Each of the candidates will be able to give a speech, and then answer questions from a moderator.

Barack Obama is yet to confirm if he will be heading to the forum.

Nevada is a key early state for any Presidential hopeful, with the primary due to take place immediately after the Iowa vote in January 2008.

Clinton leads Obama in Florida

A Quinnipiac poll released this week shows Hillary Clinton leading Barack Obama as preferred Democratic nominee in Florida.

The lead is much greater than in other states, with Clinton on 49% to Obama's 13%.

The same poll also shows that Clinton would defeat John McCain in a Presidential contest, although is a few points behind Rudy Giuliani on the same question.

Clinton Confirmed Leader in New Hampshire

According to a poll conducted by the University of New Hampshire, Hillary Clinton leads in New Hampshire as preferred Democratic nominee.

Clinton is preferred over Barack Obama 35%-21%. John Edwards is third on 15%.

This poll confirms an earlier poll released last week which had Clinton on a 39%-19% lead over Obama.

Clinton's Fundraising Plan

Hillary Clinton plans to raise $15 million by the end of March, and $75 million by the end of the year.

250 of Clinton's national fundraisers met in Washington yesterday, and committed to raise $25,000 each for her bid for the Democratic nomination.

Clinton will also be doing a series of fundraisers over the coming months, in addition to her busy campaign schedule.

Clinton's New Hampshire Schedule

Hillary Clinton will be in New Hampshire this weekend, after postponing her trip due to the death of her husband's step father. This is Clinton's first trip to New Hampshire in 10 years.

On Saturday she will be at the Berlin City Hall in a continuation of her "conversation" series. The event starts at 8.30am - wow that's early for a political meeting.

Later in the day, 1pm, she will do the same thing at Concord High School.

On Sunday, Clinton will be attending 3 house parties, in Manchester, Nashua and Keene.

She will also be at the Keene High School at 4pm.

Barack Obama has announced that he will be in New Hampshire on Monday. It's sure to be one long weekend for all those in the granite state.

To RSVP to any of these Clinton events, head here.

Streisand Donates to Clinton/Obama/Edwards

Barbara Streisand has donated the maximum allowable amount for an individual, $2300, to the 3 leading Democratic Candidates, Hillary Clinton, Barack Obama and John Edwards.

Streisand donated to all 3 because she wanted to see the front runners have "the financial backing they need to be competitive during this process."

She also said she was excited with the field of Democrat candidates, and looked forward to a lively primary campaign where important issues can be discussed.

Streisand reserved the right to donate to other candidates as the campaign goes on.

Barbara Streisand is a friend of the Clinton's and has previously donated to Hillary's Senate camapign in New York.

Clinton Would Beat Giuliani in New York

According to a recent poll, Senator Hillary Clinton would defeat Rudy Giuliani in New York in a Presidential contest, 53%-32%.

And further, if the contest was with John McCain, she would beat him 55%-26%.

The poll was conducted between January 22-25 of 600 voters in New York, by Crains New York Business.

If Giuliani was to be the nominee, Republicans would expect him to make that state red, given his strong popularity as Mayor.

However this poll shows a strong support for Hillary Clinton, who has just come off the back of a big win in the mid terms. While these are early figures, its a good start for Clinton who would be arguing that she is the only one who can beat Giuliani in New York, should he be the candidate.

And given Giuliani will be filing a Statement of Candidacy tomorrow, and is leading in most of the GOP polls, that's a real possibility.

The same poll also has Clinton leading fellow Democrats as preffered nominee.

Hillary Clinton 55%, Barack Obama 18% and John Edwards 5%.

Clinton Leads in New Hampshire

A poll released Friday shows that Hillary Clinton has the lead in New Hampshire, with 39% compared with Barack Obama on 19% as preferred Democrat nominee. This is despite the fact that Clinton has yet to visit New Hampshire in this campaign, and hasn't been there for 10 years.

Front runner in Iowa, John Edwards was third in the poll on 13%.

The poll was conducted last week on Jan 31 and Feb 1 with 600 respondents. The margin of error for a poll this size is 4%.

New Hampshire Feb 10-11 for Clinton

Hillary Clinton's trip to New Hampshire has been rescheduled to next weekend, February 10 and 11.

The trip which was originally planned for this weekend was postponed due to the death of Bill Clinton's step father.

Hillary Clinton at DNC Winter Meeting

"I'm Hillary Clinton and I'm Running For President"

In case you hadn't noticed! Hillary Clinton arrived on stage today at the DNC Winter Meeting to the cheers of her supporters and the music of Jesus Jones, "Right Here, Right Now".

She then proceeded to give a solid, rather than brilliant speech. But solid is what she needed. It appeared to be a conversation, very much Clinton's tactic, rather than a traditional speech.

And as the front runner, ironically the most vulnerable position to be in, Clinton doesn't need any slip ups. She is best when she is being herself, treating the audience as if she is speaking to them directly, one on one.

Clinton declared that the next campaign is one of the most important in the nation's history and that everyone will need to work together to take back the White House and to increase the numbers in the Congress.

She then went on to highlight the way that country has been left behind, particularly workers. Clinton declared that "We need to start standing up for the American worker again." She said that we need a new economic strategy to build a new middle class.

On Iraq, Clinton was passionate - she and others in Congress have come under fire for the fact that they haven't been able to do more than pass a non binding resolution. Clinton hit back, saying that if they can get a bi-partisan resolution, it will be the first time the Congress has said no to the President on the Iraq war.

Clinton said that she will threaten the Iraqi Government, to withdraw funds unless they are prepared to do more.

Rather than admitting she was mistaken to support the war in 2002, Clinton said that if she was President at the time, she would not have started the war. And if the war is not over by January 2009, as President, she will end it.

How that goes to appeasing those like Edwards who has been very vocal on the fact that he was mistaken on his vote and apologised, is unclear. It still might be a sticking point for Clinton.

However, Edwards and Clinton on the face of it do appear to agree on one issue, Universal Health Care. Clinton said that she will provide quality affordable universal health care coverage to every American. She has a record here on trying to make this happen.

And not leaving anything out on the formula for the speeches followed by most candidates, she spoke of the need to attain energy Independence. And she rejects the assertion that dealing with climate change will wreck the economy.

Clinton said that America needs smart, strong leadership that can provide the solutions that are needed. She said that she knows a thing or two about winning campaigns, and if she is given the chance, that she will win the campaign in 2008.

Watch the speech at Hillary's website here.

Fox Poll has Clinton in Lead - Again

Hillary Clinton continues to top the polls, with the latest Fox poll having her ahead of her nearest rival, Barack Obama by 28 points.

In a national poll of 900 people, Clinton was the preferred Democratic nominee by 43% of people, followed by Obama on 15%. Former Vice Presidential candidate John Edwards was on 12%, followed by undeclared and recent nominee for the Nobel Prize, Al Gore on 11%.

Recently announced candidate, Joe Biden was on 4%

The poll was conducted between January 30 and 31 - its margin of error is 3%.

Interestingly, the poll shows that Clinton is the best rated to be tough on terrorism - she even leads all Republican candidates. However, the poll still shows that Clinton has a favorable/unfavorable rating of 50/44.

And on the question of how comfortable people would be with Clinton as President, 45% of people said not very or not comfortable. Only 2% of people on this question answered "don't know". In comparison, for the same criteria, Obama is on 32% with a massive 20% "don't knows".

Clinton Leads in Ohio

According to a Quinnipiac poll of voters in swing state Ohio, Hillary Clinton is the preferred President from all Republican and Democrat candidates. Had John Kerry won Iowa, he would have become President. As it happened, he went down by a few hundred thousand votes.

Democrat voters prefer Clinton over Barack Obama by 25 points. Obama secured 13% whilst John Edwards was on 9%.

Against lead Republicans, Clinton would beat Rudy Giuliani 46-43, and John McCain 46-42.

A Clinton spokesperson said that this poll proves "...that Hillary can win and is today winning.

The poll took place between January 23 and 28 with 1,305 Ohio voters.

It was a disappointing result for Dennis Kucinich who hails from Cleveland. His spokesperson said that "they polled the wrong people." Hmm.

Clinton Postpones New Hampshire Trip

Hillary Clinton has put her visit to New Hampshire this weekend due to the death of her step father in law.

Dick Kelley, the husband of Bill Clinton's mother passed away yesterday at age 93.

Clinton will be rescheduling the trip to New Hampshire.