Last Night's Debate

Hillary Clinton continued to press her case for universal health care last night, at one point insisting that she be allowed to have time to discuss it further. She mentioned that people she has met on the campaign trail have urged her to fight on their behalf. Viewers might dismiss this plea as the usual campaign hyperbole, but I can tell you that people attending her rallies do ask substantial questions and health care and the economy. I must admit that I was somewhat surprised by the absence of questions about some of the things the media has been emphasizing about her campaign. No one cares about Chris Mathews at these rallies; they are there to talk about the issues. Her rallies include a town hall format that allows people to ask her questions. These discussions have been quite extensive and substantial. After spending so much time and effort discussing the issues, I can understand why she is frustrated by the focus on Obama's charisma and momentum at this point in the campaign.

Hillary usually stays around for about a half an hour after her rallies to continue to talk with people. I believe she is sincere when she talks about fighting for people as "her reason for getting up in the morning." As David Gergen mentioned in his commentary after the debate last night, she needs to convey that she is a fighter. I hope she does.

It will be interesting to see her again in Boston this Sunday. I'll report on the mood of the crowd and whether or not she is adjusting her message in response to last night's debate.

I hope you will post your thoughts about last night's debate.