Obama And Clinton: And So It Begins

To Obama, the first question out of the box is re: the NYT interview where Obama hinted he'd be tougher.

It's a slow pitch over the plate......

"First of all, some of this stuff gets overhyped. I think this has been the most hyped fight since Rocky fought Apollo Creed. Although the amazing thing is that I'm Rocky in this situation."

"We're at war...major global challenges...that's going to require big meaningul change...the way to bring that change is to offer sharp contrast with that party..."

"It requires us to be honest about the challenges that we face. It does not mean that we changing our positions when it's convenient."

He gives a litany of HRC's positions: torture, NAFTA, the war...

"I don't think, now that may be politically savvy, but I don't think it offers the contrast that we need."

Clinton in rebuttal: "I don't think the Republicans got the message that I'm voting and sounding like them."

Refers to GOP debate.

"I have stood against GWB and his failed policies."

GOPers "waiving their sabers and talking about going after Iran, I want to prevent a rush to war..."

Gives a litany... "I have been standing against Republicans ... and I think Democrats know that."

Edwards says Clinton "defends a broken system that corrupt in Washington, D.C."