Obama Cheered; Clinton booed at Forum
ABC News' Eloise Harper and Sunlen Miller Report: Senator Clinton just took the stage in a large auditorium for the 100 Club Dinner in the Hampshire Dome in Milford, NH. Clinton launched a new slogan with a sign that just says READY. The change message that Clinton has been driving hard was tampered down in this speech – and instead Clinton focused on being "ready to make the changes that America deserves," and on a "new beginning."
Clinton was serious and was clearly trying to drive her message of seriousness and strength. Some boo's were audible from the crowd at times during her speech from Obama supporters and people were chanting "O-BAMA." Three thousand people packed the auditorium and it seems like there are many more Obama supporters than Clinton supporters.
It was not Clinton's best performance.
Clinton went after Senator Obama's healthcare plan (not by name) saying "there are some who say we can’t cover everyone its too politically ambitious its controversial – they offer instead virtual healthcare – well I believe we have to cover everyone and I am not going to leave anyone out."
Clinton exited the stage with President Clinton and Chelsea Clinton.
In a stark contrast, Barack Obama took the stage immediately after Senator Clinton this evening at the 100 Club Dinner.
In the brief moment between the two candidates speeches, a couple hundred Obama supporters left their seats throughout the venue and flooded toward the stage, leading a massive impromptu pep rally, shouting "Obama, Fire it up, Ready to go!"
An event staffer had to announce over the PA system,"For safety concerns please take your seats."
Obama took the stage to the loudest applause and cheers of any of the candidates, as supporters waved signature "O" placards, and delivered a strong speech, albeight through a still hoarse voice.
Obama stuck to his stump speech, but used the momentum from his Iowa win to make the case for winning New Hampshire, saying that hope is, "believing in things not seen, believing in brighter days ahead, that is what is possible in four days time. That is the challenge before you, New Hampshire. I am absolutely convinced that if you believe, we can not be stopped."
Link:
http://blogs.abcnews.com/politicalradar/2008/01/at-dems-dinner.html