44 - Politics and Policy in Obama's Washington - January 6, 2008

Gone From the Granite State, But Tactics Not Forgotten

The presidential campaign has moved on from New Hampshire, but it has left behind it deep fissures and feelings of resentment among local Democrats that some fear may linger all the way until November.--Alec MacGillis

By Washington Post editors | January 12, 2008; 3:51 PM ET | Permalink | Comments (0)

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Union Files Suit Over Casino Caucuses

A teachers' union filed federal suit late yesterday trying to shut down nine Democratic caucus sites to be held next Saturday in casino halls along Las Vegas's famed "Strip."--Paul Kane

By Washington Post editors | January 12, 2008; 2:48 PM ET | Permalink | Comments (51)

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Race to Super Tuesday, Now on TV

The first trickle of television ads are starting to make their way onto television screens in Super Tuesday states.--Matthew Mosk

By Washington Post editors | January 12, 2008; 1:05 PM ET | Permalink | Comments (0)

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Liberal Bloggers for...Romney?

DailyKos thinks Romney might be the right choice in Michigan.--Jose Antonio Vargas

By Washington Post editors | January 12, 2008; 11:54 AM ET | Permalink | Comments (0)

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Burned Once Before in the Granite State

By Jon Cohen "America's beleaguered pollsters know exactly how Dole felt in 1996 after losing...

By Washington Post editors | January 12, 2008; 10:54 AM ET | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: The Pollster
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Clinton Says Economy 'Isn't Working for Everybody'

Sen. Hillary Clinton on Friday brought the slumping economy into the center of her presidential campaign.--Karl Vick

By Washington Post editors | January 11, 2008; 8:18 PM ET | Permalink | Comments (0)

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Huckabee Defends 'Fair Tax'

Appearing at the Detroit Economic Club, former Arkansas Governor Mike Huckabee largely avoided using the populist tone that has distinguished him from the other 2008 GOP hopefuls.--Perry Bacon Jr.

By Washington Post editors | January 11, 2008; 4:55 PM ET | Permalink | Comments (62)

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To Clarify 'Fairy Tale' Remarks, a Call to Sharpton

Updated: 6:14 p.m. By Rachel Dry The next chapter in the tale about former president...

By Washington Post editors | January 11, 2008; 4:44 PM ET | Permalink | Comments (0)

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Obama, Clinton Amp Up Fundraising

Both Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama are continuing their efforts to turn the burst of momentum each gained out of their respective early contest victories into cash. Media experts estimate it could cost $40 million to wage even a targeted television ad campaign in the nearly two dozen states with Feb. 5 primaries, and so both candidates are shifting into overdrive to raise the needed funds. --Matthew Mosk

By Web Politics Editor | January 11, 2008; 4:23 PM ET | Permalink | Comments (0)

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John Edwards: Spoiler, Surrogate or Surprise?

John Edwards is the forgotten man in the race for the Democratic nomination, but not an inconsequential candidate.--Dan Balz

By Washington Post editors | January 11, 2008; 1:40 PM ET | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Dan Balz's Take, John Edwards, The Democrats
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Clinton, Obama Fight for Vegas Votes

Both Barack Obama and Hillary Clinton spend time courting voters in Las Vegas.--Paul Kane

By Washington Post editors | January 11, 2008; 12:48 PM ET | Permalink | Comments (0)

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Napolitano Cites Need For 'Fresh Voices' in Obama Pick

Arizona Gov. Janet Napolitano, one of the most prominent female elected officials in the country, announced this morning her endorsement of Barack Obama's presidential candidacy. --Dan Balz and Shailagh Murray

By Washington Post editors | January 11, 2008; 11:32 AM ET | Permalink | Comments (0)

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Giuliani Advisers Forgo Salaries

Top advisers to former New York mayor Rudolph Giuliani have voluntarily agreed to forgo their salaries or consultant fees, an indication that Giuliani's strategy of sitting out the early primaries is causing fundraising problems for the campaign.--Michael D. Shear

By Washington Post editors | January 11, 2008; 10:52 AM ET | Permalink | Comments (0)

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Obama Lands Arizona Gov.'s Endorsement

Arizona Gov. Janet Napolitano will endorse Sen. Barack Obama's presidential campaign today, according to two sources familiar with the decision. --Chris Cillizza

By Web Politics Editor | January 11, 2008; 10:15 AM ET | Permalink | Comments (0)

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Populist, But Not Popular Message on Economy

As the presidential candidates tumble all over each other offering economic plans, the two contenders who have offered populist messages aimed at the economically dislocated have not gotten as much traction as they might have expected.--Peter Baker

By Washington Post editors | January 11, 2008; 10:14 AM ET | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Morning Cheat Sheet
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Method or the Map?

Was the New Hampshire primary rigged?

By Post Editor | January 10, 2008; 8:10 PM ET | Permalink | Comments (0)

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A Homestate's Skepticism

While former Massachusetts governor Mitt Romney is counting on his home state of Michigan to deliver him a key primary win next week, he faces fierce competition from both the left and the right in the form of Sen. John McCain (R-Ariz.) and former Arkansas governor Mike Huckabee. --Juliet Eilperin

By Web Politics Editor | January 10, 2008; 5:51 PM ET | Permalink | Comments (0)

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The Invisible Primary Voter: Evangelical Democrats

Since nearly eight in 10 white evangelicals voted for President Bush in 2004, Democrats have been plowing thought, money and time into changing the story line. They have faith advisers, faith forums and faith strategies that show there is such a thing as a progressive evangelical. So imagine their annoyance when exit polls in Iowa and New Hampshire asked only Republican voters if they consider themselves "born-again" or evangelical. --Michelle Boorstein and Jon Cohen

By Web Politics Editor | January 10, 2008; 5:29 PM ET | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: B_Blog, The Pollster
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Politics and Porn as the Sin City Caucus Looms

With the Nevada caucus nine days away, Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton decided to make a quick campaign stop today in Las Vegas as a sign of her intention to make some showing in "Sin City", the epicenter of the next pivotal stage in her fight to win the Democratic nomination. It's unclear how much of a welcome wagon she'll be receiving. --Paul Kane

By Web Politics Editor | January 10, 2008; 5:26 PM ET | Permalink | Comments (0)

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With Kerry Under the Spanish Oaks

Barack Obama receives a hug and an endorsement from former presidential candidate John Kerry...

By Web Politics Editor | January 10, 2008; 3:06 PM ET | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Barack Obama
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Once Again, It's The Economy

If 2007 was the year of Iraq in the presidential campaign, 2008 is now shaping up as the year of the economy.--Dan Balz

By Web Politics Editor | January 10, 2008; 2:12 PM ET | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Dan Balz's Take
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Giuliani vs. the Talking Heads

By Howard Kurtz The Ad: With pundits and politicos handicapping the campaign like the...

By Web Politics Editor | January 10, 2008; 12:36 PM ET | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Ad Watch
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Richardson to Leave, But Not Yet Endorse

New Mexico Gov. Bill Richardson, who has been far back in the pack in the first two contests of the 2008 Democratic campaign, will end his candidacy today, according to two sources close to the campaign, but will not now endorse any of the other candidates still in the race.--Dan Balz

By Washington Post editors | January 10, 2008; 12:18 PM ET | Permalink | Comments (0)

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About That Mike Henry Memo

By Peter Baker So was Mike Henry right? Henry was the deputy campaign manager for...

By Web Politics Editor | January 10, 2008; 11:39 AM ET | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Morning Cheat Sheet
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What Does the Kerry Endorsement Mean?

By Chris Cillizza, The Fix The news that Sen. John Kerry (Mass.) plans to endorse...

By Web Politics Editor | January 10, 2008; 11:21 AM ET | Permalink | Comments (0)

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John Kerry Endorses Obama

Sen. John Kerry, the Democratic nominee in 2004, will endorse Sen. Barack Obama this morning in Charleston, S.C. The nod is a setback for John Edwards, Kerry's vice-presidential pick in 2004, who is trying to keep his campaign alive after two early losses. --Shailagh Murray

By Washington Post editors | January 10, 2008; 10:59 AM ET | Permalink | Comments (0)

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Ralph Reed's New Role

Eighteen months ago, the political career of Christian right golden boy Ralph Reed came crashing down, a casualty of his role in the Jack Abramoff lobbying scandal.--Susan Schmidt

By Washington Post editors | January 10, 2008; 9:49 AM ET | Permalink | Comments (25)

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McCain Looking for a Lucky Streak

By Juliet Eilperin ABOARD THE MCCAIN CAMPAIGN PLANE--Sen. John McCain (R-Ariz.) may be the winner...

By Washington Post editors | January 9, 2008; 11:24 PM ET | Permalink | Comments (7)

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Obama Draws Throng in Jersey City

Thousands can't get into Jersey City event.

By Post Editor | January 9, 2008; 8:42 PM ET | Permalink | Comments (33)

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What if the Polls Were Right?

By Jon Cohen Democratic Pollster Peter Hart has a contrarian view on the latest polling...

By Web Politics Editor | January 9, 2008; 7:55 PM ET | Permalink | Comments (28)
Categories: The Pollster
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Bill Richardson to Exit Race

Sources close to his campaign said Wednesday that New Mexico Gov. Bill Richardson has decided to end his campaign for the presidency after a meeting with top advisers and that he will formally announce the decision Thursday in Santa Fe. --Garance Franke-Ruta

By Web Politics Editor | January 9, 2008; 7:34 PM ET | Permalink | Comments (17)

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Lindsey Graham, Friend of John

On the plane with John McCain. (Reuters). By Juliet Eilperin ABOARD THE MCCAIN CAMPAIGN...

By Web Politics Editor | January 9, 2008; 7:23 PM ET | Permalink | Comments (3)

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In Michigan, Student Enthusiasm for McCain

With dance music pumping from the speakers and high-schoolers screaming, Sen. John McCain (R-Ariz.) told a group of supporters at a rally here that he would work to protect America from overseas threats even as he would boost the economy. --Juliet Eilperin

By Web Politics Editor | January 9, 2008; 6:45 PM ET | Permalink | Comments (5)

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The View from Virginia

Virginia Gov. Timothy M. Kaine, one of Barack Obama's national co-chairmen, said yesterday that Obama's loss in New Hampshire means the contest for the nomination may be decided Feb. 12 in Virginia. --Tim Craig

By Web Politics Editor | January 9, 2008; 6:12 PM ET | Permalink | Comments (0)

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Voters Face Confusion in Michigan Dem Race

Updated 6:37 p.m. By Peter Slevin CHICAGO -- Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton is the only...

By Web Politics Editor | January 9, 2008; 5:45 PM ET | Permalink | Comments (11)

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Clinton Fundraising Remains Strong

Hillary Clinton's fundraising team raised more money than Democratic rival Barack Obama in the final three months of 2007, staking claim to the biggest fundraiser in the presidential race for the second straight quarter. --John Solomon

By Web Politics Editor | January 9, 2008; 4:38 PM ET | Permalink | Comments (9)

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No Cash Flow Woes for Clinton

Any speculation that Sen. Hillary Clinton would be strapped for cash as she enters the tense weeks leading into the Feb. 5 primaries has evaporated overnight.--Matthew Mosk

By Washington Post editors | January 9, 2008; 3:10 PM ET | Permalink | Comments (0)

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Nevada Unions Endorse Obama

The Service Employees International Union in Nevada endorsed second-place New Hampshire finisher Sen. Barack Obama last night.--Garance Franke-Ruta

By Web Politics Editor | January 9, 2008; 2:35 PM ET | Permalink | Comments (8)

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McCain Victory Fuels Influx of Funds

Sen. John McCain's (R-Mich.) cash-strapped campaign has received a significant influx of funds since the New Year, according to his aides and supporters.--Juliet Eilperin

By Washington Post editors | January 9, 2008; 2:19 PM ET | Permalink | Comments (1)

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On N.H. Jaunt, Fenty Stumped for Obama

Adrian Fenty, knocking on doors in New Hampshire for the Obama campaign.--Kevin Merida

By Washington Post editors | January 9, 2008; 1:02 PM ET | Permalink | Comments (0)

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Clinton Teaches Politics 101

Hillary Clinton's stunning victory here on Tuesday night was another powerful reminder of something that is taught in Politics 101: Campaigns matter.--Dan Balz

By Washington Post editors | January 9, 2008; 12:25 PM ET | Permalink | Comments (124)
Categories: Dan Balz's Take, Hillary Rodham Clinton, Primaries, The Democrats
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Obama's Fundraising Strong

Sen. Barack Obama raised $23.5 million during the last three months of 2007, and raised another $8 million in the first eight days of 2008, according to a campaign memo released this morning. --Matthew Mosk

By Web Politics Editor | January 9, 2008; 11:41 AM ET | Permalink | Comments (7)

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The Cloudy Crystal Ball

It's early still, but here is one leading contender for quote of the day from former Bush aide Peter Wehner.

By Washington Post editors | January 9, 2008; 10:39 AM ET | Permalink | Comments (1)

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Straight to Michigan for McCain

Fresh off his New Hampshire victory, Sen. John McCain (R-Ariz.) shifted gears and emphasized an economic message this morning as he prepared to greet Michigan voters in the run up to next week's primary.--Juliet Eilperin

By Washington Post editors | January 9, 2008; 10:28 AM ET | Permalink | Comments (12)

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Reports of Clinton's Death, Greatly Exaggerated

I guess it was premature to write those forward-looking analyses of President Obama's re-election strategy in 2012.--Joel Achenbach

By Washington Post editors | January 9, 2008; 8:49 AM ET | Permalink | Comments (51)
Categories: Hillary Rodham Clinton, Joel's New Hampshire Diary, Primaries, The Democrats
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About Those Democratic Polls

Yesterday's Democratic result is sure to fuel debate among poll-watchers about the accuracy of polls in contests with African American candidates. --Jon Cohen

By Web Politics Editor | January 9, 2008; 12:55 AM ET | Permalink | Comments (50)
Categories: Barack Obama, Hillary Rodham Clinton, Primaries, The Democrats, The Pollster
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New Hampshire Voters Take Independent Tack

The first week of the new year threatened to write an unofficial end to the Bush-Clinton era of American politics and make a 46-year-old African American with the briefest of political biographies the man with the best opportunity to write the next chapter of political history. But by the narrowest of margins, Hillary Rodham Clinton turned back Barack Obama's bid to follow his Iowa caucus victory five days ago with what could have been a decisive win in the New Hampshire primary. As a result, both parties face further uncertainty about the identity of their eventual nominees. --David S. Broder

By Web Politics Editor | January 8, 2008; 11:30 PM ET | Permalink | Comments (11)

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Mapping N.H. Victory

Sen. John McCain won in eight of the ten counties in New Hampshire, while Sen. Hillary Clinton's victory overall came from just five counties.

By Washington Post editors | January 8, 2008; 11:23 PM ET | Permalink | Comments (0)

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Win Shows 'Never Count Hillary Clinton Out'

An official Washington that only days ago was swept up in Barack Obama mania tonight began grappling with a Democratic primary fight that is looking like a long, extended battle between the Obama phenomenon and a slow, steady and strong Hillary Rodham Clinton.--Jonathan Weisman and Paul Kane

By Washington Post editors | January 8, 2008; 11:08 PM ET | Permalink | Comments (0)

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Close Race Fuels HRC Glee

After a grueling, depressing five-day stretch since losing Iowa, the Clinton campaign on Monday night exuded its first rays of optimism since leaving Iowa, as early election returns showed an extremely close Democratic race. --Anne E. Kornblut

By Web Politics Editor | January 8, 2008; 9:54 PM ET | Permalink | Comments (22)

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Thanking Voters, McCain Revels in Win

Arizona Sen. John McCain claimed victory in the New Hampshire primary Tuesday night by embracing the joy of an unexpected comeback and declaring his intention to bring his brand of straight talk to the White House.--Michael D. Shear

By Washington Post editors | January 8, 2008; 9:36 PM ET | Permalink | Comments (6)

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Among the Clinton Backers

At about 8:30 Phil Singer, Clinton's peripatetic spokesman, began to circulate in the gym, looking giddy. "I'm not giddy," he said smiling. "I had several beers before I came over." --Dana Milbank

By Web Politics Editor | January 8, 2008; 9:24 PM ET | Permalink | Comments (16)

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Romney Settles for Silver Again

Romney vows to press on and supporters, deflated, still stick by him.--Juliet Eilperin

By Washington Post editors | January 8, 2008; 9:21 PM ET | Permalink | Comments (31)

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Cash-Crunched Thompson Reduces Salaries

Near the bottom in New Hampshire's primary results and strapped for cash, Republican Fred Thompson's campaign is cutting staff salaries to free up resources for a last-ditch effort to revitalize his White House bid in South Carolina. The decision means Thompson will mostly forgo the next primary, scheduled in Michigan, on which rivals John McCain and Mitt Romney are already setting their sites. --John Solomon

By Web Politics Editor | January 8, 2008; 9:10 PM ET | Permalink | Comments (14)

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Nerves and Enthusiasm

Obama rally mood excited but tense.

By Web Politics Editor | January 8, 2008; 9:07 PM ET | Permalink | Comments (5)

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Forgetting N.H., Giuliani Heads South

Giuliani came up with a novel spin on his weak finish: "Maybe we've lulled our opponents into a false sense of confidence now."--Joel Achenbach

By Washington Post editors | January 8, 2008; 8:48 PM ET | Permalink | Comments (1)
Categories: Joel's New Hampshire Diary, Primaries, Rudy Giuliani, The GOP
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Now on the Homepage

News online.

By Web Politics Editor | January 8, 2008; 8:48 PM ET | Permalink | Comments (1)
Categories: Today at The Post
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McCain Won 'Through Sheer Guts'

The ballroom erupted in screams and shouts as Fox News pronounced John McCain the winner.--Lois Romano

By Washington Post editors | January 8, 2008; 8:31 PM ET | Permalink | Comments (9)

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On Tenterhooks at Obama Rally

The mood at the Barack Obama rally was tense as the returns trickled in.--Shailagh Murray

By Web Politics Editor | January 8, 2008; 8:30 PM ET | Permalink | Comments (40)

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From Near-Death to Victory

Former New Hampshire congressman and McCain supporter Chuck Douglas works the crowd at the McCain event.--Ed O'Keefe

By Washington Post editors | January 8, 2008; 8:19 PM ET | Permalink | Comments (6)

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Excitement for Romney Despite Finish

When it comes to campaign accoutrements, former Massachusetts governor Mitt Romney can declare victory already.--Juliet Eilperin

By Washington Post editors | January 8, 2008; 8:12 PM ET | Permalink | Comments (13)

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Clinton Camp's Expectation Setting

New advisers expected. --Anne E. Kornblut

By Web Politics Editor | January 8, 2008; 8:01 PM ET | Permalink | Comments (16)

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Celebrating McCain, Comeback Kid

John McCain gathers tonight with supporters in the same Crowne Plaza Hotel ballroom they filled when he won the New Hampshire Primary in 2000.--Ed O'Keefe

By Washington Post editors | January 8, 2008; 7:42 PM ET | Permalink | Comments (11)

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At the Radisson Lobby

Live-blogging the hotel lobby. --Joel Achenbach

By Web Politics Editor | January 8, 2008; 6:44 PM ET | Permalink | Comments (5)
Categories: Joel's New Hampshire Diary, Primaries, The Democrats
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A Clinton Campaign Shakeup?

Terry McAuliffe, the campaign chairman, said publicly and repeatedly on Tuesday that new additions would be made to the staff. --Anne E. Kornblut

By Web Politics Editor | January 8, 2008; 6:38 PM ET | Permalink | Comments (18)

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Maggie Williams to Clinton Camp

Changes at the Clinton campaign. --Chris Cillizza

By Web Politics Editor | January 8, 2008; 6:27 PM ET | Permalink | Comments (7)

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Turnout in Historical Perspective

As the New Hampshire primary contest vote totals are counted later tonight and reports of high turnout continue to pour in, previous turnout figures in New Hampshire provide an interesting point of comparison. --Alice R. Crites

By Web Politics Editor | January 8, 2008; 5:31 PM ET | Permalink | Comments (4)

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Watching History at Age 19

More from the field with Tobin Van Ostern. --Jose Antonio Vargas

By Web Politics Editor | January 8, 2008; 5:05 PM ET | Permalink | Comments (3)

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Extra Democratic Ballots Needed

The predictions for a big turnout in New Hampshire's primary -- especially on the Democratic side -- were materializing this afternoon as numerous town clerks began running low on ballots and summoned more forms from state election officials. The Secretary of State's office said it received a large number of calls for extra Democratic ballots during the day but that no locations had run out. --John Solomon

By Web Politics Editor | January 8, 2008; 4:36 PM ET | Permalink | Comments (11)

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The Late Deciders Decide

Seven voters make up their minds as they head to the polls. --Joel Achenbach

By Web Politics Editor | January 8, 2008; 3:49 PM ET | Permalink | Comments (5)
Categories: B_Blog, Joel's New Hampshire Diary, The Democrats
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Honesty Trumps Policy

Voters talk about how they made their decisions. --Juliet Eilperin

By Web Politics Editor | January 8, 2008; 3:28 PM ET | Permalink | Comments (4)

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The Canvassers Get Ready

Canvassers get ready for their afternoon rounds in Londonderry, N.H. --Jose Antonio Vargas

By Web Politics Editor | January 8, 2008; 3:19 PM ET | Permalink | Comments (0)

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As Gibbs Goes, So Goes Clinton?

Far from the flood of voters heading to the polls in New Hampshire today, Joe Gibbs resigned as head coach and president of the Washington Redskins.--Russ Walker

By Washington Post editors | January 8, 2008; 2:39 PM ET | Permalink | Comments (0)

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McCain Ready to Truth-Squad

Hoping to fend off the kind of campaign loss they suffered in 2000, advisers to Sen. John McCain (R-Ariz.) have formed a "Truth Squad" to counter any sort of negative attacks they may face in South Carolina, which could determine McCain's shot at the GOP presidential nomination.--Juliet Eilperin

By Washington Post editors | January 8, 2008; 1:23 PM ET | Permalink | Comments (8)

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Arkansas Travelers Flock to N.H.

Old friends flock to New Hampshire for Clinton. --Juliet Eilperin

By Web Politics Editor | January 8, 2008; 12:45 PM ET | Permalink | Comments (2)

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Swarming the Polls

High turnout at Nashua's biggest polling station.--Juliet Eilperin

By Washington Post editors | January 8, 2008; 12:33 PM ET | Permalink | Comments (5)

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Obama's Tipping Point

Barack Obama closed out his New Hampshire campaign late Monday the way he began it early Friday, with a display of energy, jubilation and powerful rhetoric that captured what could be a profoundly important transitional moment in Democratic politics and perhaps the politics of the country.--Dan Balz

By Washington Post editors | January 8, 2008; 12:27 PM ET | Permalink | Comments (131)
Categories: Dan Balz's Take
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Door-to-Door for Obama

Canvassing with an Obama supporter in N.H.

By Web Politics Editor | January 8, 2008; 12:10 PM ET | Permalink | Comments (2)

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Now Actual Voters Decide

No real campaigning today, just photo ops, street demonstrations, chanting, speculation, punditry and prayers.--Joel Achenbach

By Washington Post editors | January 8, 2008; 11:40 AM ET | Permalink | Comments (3)
Categories: Joel's New Hampshire Diary, The GOP
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Farewell to Coffee, Eggs and Politicking in the Early States

The New Hampshire primary means the end to The Washington Post's Diners series.--Ed O'Keefe

By Ed O'Keefe | January 8, 2008; 11:33 AM ET | Permalink | Comments (1)
Categories: The Diners
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In Nashua, McCain Frenzy and High Turnout

It was a rough start for Gene and JoAnne Godfrey, 74 and 73, respectively. The frail couple desperately wanted to cast their ballots for John McCain this morning at one of the largest and busiest voting stations, but they were forced to trudge through a snow drift by an unlikely culprit: McCain's own campaign entourage. --Lois Romano

By Washington Post editors | January 8, 2008; 10:57 AM ET | Permalink | Comments (2)

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Interactive Map: N.H.

An interactive map of where candidates have focused their efforts, by The Washington Post.

By Web Politics Editor | January 8, 2008; 10:20 AM ET | Permalink | Comments (1)
Categories: Today at The Post
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For N.Y. Candidates, Quandaries Ahead

By Peter Baker MANCHESTER, N.H. -- Back in the old days -- say, a month...

By Web Politics Editor | January 8, 2008; 10:19 AM ET | Permalink | Comments (6)
Categories: Morning Cheat Sheet
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Not a Game

Hillary Clinton hugs a supporter at an early election morning rally in N.H. (Getty Images)....

By Web Politics Editor | January 8, 2008; 8:59 AM ET | Permalink | Comments (8)
Categories: Joel's New Hampshire Diary
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Dartmouth Students Walk Out on Bill

About thirty minutes into Bill Clinton's nearly two-hour stop here at Dartmouth College, a steady stream of students started walking out of the venue. --Jose Antonio Vargas

By Web Politics Editor | January 7, 2008; 9:06 PM ET | Permalink | Comments (104)
Categories: B_Blog, Hillary Rodham Clinton, The Democrats
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An Edwards Promise That Few Have Kept

From lobbying to the White House, a well-trod path.--Jeffrey H. Birnbaum

By Washington Post editors | January 7, 2008; 8:21 PM ET | Permalink | Comments (6)

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Numbers Shift in Advance of N.H. Primary

On the eve of the New Hampshire primary, a slew of new polls. Go figure. --Jon Cohen

By Web Politics Editor | January 7, 2008; 7:59 PM ET | Permalink | Comments (3)
Categories: The Pollster
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No Ban on Lobbyists as Advisers for Obama

Democratic presidential hopeful Barack Obama has made a big deal about the fact that his campaign doesn't accept political donations from Washington lobbyists, and recently declared that "they won't run my White House, and they won't set the agenda in Washington." But that ban doesn't extend to seeking their endorsements, or their advice.--John Solomon

By Web Politics Editor | January 7, 2008; 7:50 PM ET | Permalink | Comments (23)

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Romney Draws a Blank on Violence Against Women Act

During an "Ask Mitt Anything" forum at the Derry-Salem Elks Club here, former Massachusetts governor Mitt Romney demurred when an audience member asked him whether he would hold up reauthorization of the Violence Against Women Act on the grounds that it kept men from visiting their children. "I'm not familiar with the Act," Romney replied. --Juliet Eilperin

By Web Politics Editor | January 7, 2008; 7:19 PM ET | Permalink | Comments (32)

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A Woman President? Not for Clinton Hecklers.

In an unprecedented display on the campaign trail, two young men interrupted Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton here on Monday night, screaming: "Iron my shirt! Iron my shirt!" --Anne E. Kornblut

By Web Politics Editor | January 7, 2008; 7:08 PM ET | Permalink | Comments (19)

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Video: Obama's Hope-ful Campaign

Barack Obama delivered a speech in Lebanon, N.H. Monday in which he countered Hillary Clinton's criticism that his message gives voters false hope. The Post's Shailagh Murray reports.

By washingtonpost.com Editors | January 7, 2008; 6:38 PM ET | Permalink | Comments (0)

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Racing Through the Slush to Primary Day

Speed day on the campaign trail. Move fast, talk fast. Everyone's hitting the state like buckshot.--Joel Achenbach

By Washington Post editors | January 7, 2008; 6:02 PM ET | Permalink | Comments (3)
Categories: Joel's New Hampshire Diary
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Stumping for Wife, Clinton Pushes Back Against the Press

Clinton won this scrappy corner of New Hampshire convincingly 16 years ago. But today, his popularity seemed a bit more tenuous. He showed up 90 minutes late and was greeted by a crowd of about 200 people who filled about half the available seats. A baby wailed during the first 10 minutes of his remarks, and local television crews packed up early, unable to shift their schedules to Clinton time. The former president was in a serious mood. "You can pick the president you want," he told the crowd. "But you can't be unaware that you are making a real choice here," he said. He described a political landscape that to him made little sense. --Shailagh Murray

By Web Politics Editor | January 7, 2008; 5:50 PM ET | Permalink | Comments (13)

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Huckabee's Late Show Strategy

Former Arkansas governor to sit for late night show on eve of the NH primary.

By Web Politics Editor | January 7, 2008; 5:47 PM ET | Permalink | Comments (11)

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McCain Supporters Cry, 'Mac is Back!'

Scenes from a rally.

By Web Politics Editor | January 7, 2008; 5:38 PM ET | Permalink | Comments (1)

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Romney's Fundraising Team Planned for Wins

Mitt Romney is in a tight race in New Hampshire. (Bloomberg News). By Matthew...

By Web Politics Editor | January 7, 2008; 4:50 PM ET | Permalink | Comments (14)

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Obama's Rise Sidelines Bloggers

What happens to the brawling, highly partisan netroots movement when the party's leading candidate campaigns on bipartisanship -- and wins on it? --Jose Antonio Vargas

By Web Politics Editor | January 7, 2008; 4:10 PM ET | Permalink | Comments (19)

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Bradley Voters Find New Champion in Obama

Barack Obama is being joined on the campaign trail today in New Hampshire by Bill Bradley. The endorsement by the former New Jersey senator may verge on the superfluous for Obama, who with one day until the primary is now leading Hillary Clinton in the polls here and doing particularly well among the kind of independent voters who took a liking to Bradley in his 2000 challenge of Al Gore. Yet the pairing of the two men on the cusp of what may well be another big victory for Obama offers a moment of vindication for the many Obama supporters here who also backed Bradley in 2000. --Alec MacGillis

By Web Politics Editor | January 7, 2008; 2:59 PM ET | Permalink | Comments (11)

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At Independent Forum, Optimism on Iowa Results

New York Mayor Michael R. Bloomberg rolled his independent non-campaign for president into Sooner country today, declaring once again "I'm not a candidate."--Keith B. Richburg

By Washington Post editors | January 7, 2008; 2:55 PM ET | Permalink | Comments (5)

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An Emotional Clinton Reflects on How She Does It

If there were any doubt that the presidential campaign has become a grueling -- and personal -- experience for Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton, she laid it to rest on Monday in a choked-up moment, captured on videotape, in a diner in Portsmouth. --Anne E. Kornblut

By Web Politics Editor | January 7, 2008; 2:44 PM ET | Permalink | Comments (314)

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A Pet Project for Romney?

Massachusetts governor Mitt Romney faced a new question: as president, what would he do to combat the nation's burgeoning pet population?--Juliet Eilperin

By Washington Post editors | January 7, 2008; 2:37 PM ET | Permalink | Comments (19)

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Younger Iowans Were More Ideological, Survey Shows

A detailed look at what happened in Iowa.

By Web Politics Editor | January 7, 2008; 2:32 PM ET | Permalink | Comments (1)
Categories: The Pollster
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At the Diner with Rudy

Frank Luntz gives Clinton staffers some advice at an N.H. diner. --Joel Achenbach

By Web Politics Editor | January 7, 2008; 2:20 PM ET | Permalink | Comments (3)
Categories: Joel's New Hampshire Diary
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Ron Paul Buzzes N.H.

A small plane buzzes Manchester with a Ron Paul banner. --Peter Baker

By Web Politics Editor | January 7, 2008; 2:05 PM ET | Permalink | Comments (0)

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An Old Phrase's New Turn

Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton may be aiming for the "change" mantle, but on Monday morning, she took the time machine all the way back to the 1980s. --Anne E. Kornblut

By Web Politics Editor | January 7, 2008; 1:55 PM ET | Permalink | Comments (4)

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Clock Ticking as Clinton Struggles to Rewrite Script

If you wanted a measure of how discombobulated Hillary Clinton's campaign has been since Iowa, look no farther than to the memo sent out by chief strategist Mark Penn shortly before the Democratic debate on Saturday night.--Dan Balz

By Washington Post editors | January 7, 2008; 11:52 AM ET | Permalink | Comments (140)
Categories: Dan Balz's Take
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Obama Stumps From the Opera House Stairs

When Sen. Barack Obama arrived at the opera house in downtown Lebanon this morning, 750 people were waiting inside -- and another 500 had gathered around the entrance, hoping to catch a glimpse. Obama did them one better, in a scene as vivid as any that Hollywood could produce. --Shailagh Murray

By Web Politics Editor | January 7, 2008; 11:22 AM ET | Permalink | Comments (26)

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Romney Turns to Turnaround Pitch

One day before the New Hampshire primary, Mitt Romney will make a final, televised appeal to voters that he is the candidate best suited to bring change to Washington.--Michael D. Shear

By Washington Post editors | January 7, 2008; 11:14 AM ET | Permalink | Comments (3)

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Dining With McCain Fans

Arizona senator supporters are "coming out of the woodwork."--Joel Achenbach

By Washington Post editors | January 7, 2008; 10:51 AM ET | Permalink | Comments (7)
Categories: Joel's New Hampshire Diary
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Political Tourists Flock to See Democracy in Action

By Juliet Eilperin WINDHAM, N.H. -- Call them political tourists, the men and women who...

By Web Politics Editor | January 7, 2008; 10:41 AM ET | Permalink | Comments (2)

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Paul Has 'No Intention' of Making Third-Party Bid

Rep. Ron Paul says he has no plans to run on a third-party ticket.--Jose Antonio Vargas

By Web Politics Editor | January 6, 2008; 11:13 PM ET | Permalink | Comments (67)

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Obama Takes the Lead in N.H.

Sen. Barack Obama (Ill.) has jumped to a double-digit lead in New Hampshire with two days to go, neutralizing New York senator Hillary Rodham Clinton's onetime advantage among female voters, according to two state polls released today. --Jon Cohen

By Web Politics Editor | January 6, 2008; 9:26 PM ET | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: B_Blog, Barack Obama, Hillary Rodham Clinton, The Pollster
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From the Throng, Chris Matthews Tries to Book Clinton

By Peter Baker NASHUA, N.H. -- At least he didn't shove a campaign aide, as...

By Web Politics Editor | January 6, 2008; 7:36 PM ET | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Hillary Rodham Clinton, Primaries, The Democrats
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The Ron Paul Backlash Hits Fox

By Jose Antonio Vargas MANCHESTER, N.H. -- Folks in downtown Manchester must be getting a...

By Web Politics Editor | January 6, 2008; 6:56 PM ET | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Primaries, Ron Paul, The GOP
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Despite Iowa Win, Huckabee an Outsider

Mike Huckabee bows to reporters in Windham, N.H. (Getty Images). By Juliet Eilperin WINDHAM, N.H....

By Web Politics Editor | January 6, 2008; 6:55 PM ET | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Candidates, Mike Huckabee, Primaries, The GOP
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Dave Barry on Barry Obama

Dave Barry guest-blogs for Joel Achenbach.

By Web Politics Editor | January 6, 2008; 6:24 PM ET | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Joel's New Hampshire Diary
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McCain, In Good Humor, Takes Townhall Questions

John McCain answers questions at a townhall meeting today in N.H. (Getty Images). By Juliet...

By Web Politics Editor | January 6, 2008; 5:38 PM ET | Permalink | Comments (0)

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The Chairman Wars

Jim Demers, a New Hampshire lobbyist and political strategist who is co-chairing Barack Obama's campaign here, was invoked by Hillary Clinton in last night's debate as undermining Obama's claim that he's running a campaign free of special interest influence. "When it comes to lobbyists, Senator Obama's chair in New Hampshire is a lobbyist. He lobbies for the drug companies," Clinton said. Alec MacGillis

By Web Politics Editor | January 6, 2008; 5:16 PM ET | Permalink | Comments (7)

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Swept Up in the Obama Moment

Obama rallies the faithful. (AP). By Joel Achenbach The best sign of the campaign trail,...

By Web Politics Editor | January 6, 2008; 4:07 PM ET | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Joel's New Hampshire Diary
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Murphy's Law

By Dan Balz MANCHESTER, N.H. -- Who was spotted in the lobby of John McCain's...

By Web Politics Editor | January 6, 2008; 4:01 PM ET | Permalink | Comments (0)

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Bradley to Campaign with Obama

By Shailagh Murray EXETER, N.H. -- As in Iowa, Sen. Barack Obama is counting on...

By Web Politics Editor | January 6, 2008; 2:28 PM ET | Permalink | Comments (0)

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Romney Looking for an Obama Shield Against Rivals

Romney's high command may be right or wrong about Obama's prospects in N.H., but there is no question that they are all rooting for a big Obama victory over Hillary Clinton and John Edwards. The better Obama does, they believe, the more independents votes he will deny John McCain, the current GOP front-runner in New Hampshire. The fewer independents who vote in the Republican primary, the better Romney will do. --Dan Balz

By Web Politics Editor | January 6, 2008; 1:59 PM ET | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: B_Blog, Dan Balz's Take
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A Stump Speech Anecdote Leads to a Real-Life Meeting

Former Sen. John Edwards has a surprise visitor on the campaign trail today: Hilda Sarkisyan, the mother of Nataline Sarkisyan, the 17-year-old Los Angeles girl whose death last month became a national news story because her insurance company had initially denied a liver transplant. --Shailagh Murray

By Web Politics Editor | January 6, 2008; 1:11 PM ET | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: John Edwards
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More Than a Feeling

By Joel Achenbach DOVER, N.H. -- So much of politics is about feel. That may...

By Web Politics Editor | January 6, 2008; 10:18 AM ET | Permalink | Comments (0)
Categories: Joel's New Hampshire Diary
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Duel Debates, Redux

By Jose Antonio Vargas MANCHESTER, N.H. -- CNN, in a first for the cable news...

By Web Politics Editor | January 6, 2008; 2:01 AM ET | Permalink | Comments (2)

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Network News

44: January 6, 2008 - January 12, 2008