I have to say the coverage last night really held my interest! The results were VERY interesting and it really does say a lot about how people are feeling and what it is that they want and feel they need. They want sincerity and change! (I'll let you figure out who's who :P)

Your coverage of the events was also very smooth, it held my interest and I thought "the best political team" and panel gave great insight in analyzing the votes!

Have fun with NH :D

PS: I'm not really sure how I feel about the 'pizza pie chart'... it's a great idea but I'm not sure how practical it is. It was cute to see you concentrating on moving it so that it would show up properly though... and then it looks like you just gave up and listened to the panel :D Very funny!

AC, last night was great! I loved the intimate view of the caucus. I can't believe that they allowed cameras in the rooms. It was so interesting to see people barter for others. History was made, parties were rattled and KU made history by winning it's 12th game. yippee! I know you love sports! Hold onto your hats. It should be another wild ride to Tuesday! Have a great week-end!

I had some issues with Obama but after his speech last night, he really won me over. His speech was moving and heartfelt. Very JFK-esque. Not that it matters, can't vote but wish I could. Last night was historic on so many levels and I am glad I got to see it.

Last night’s had great coverage by the entire team lat night. The 4 hours flew by. Oh and the "pizza pie chart" was very cool.....I want one that can determine my moods and show people so they know when I might bite their head off or if I am in a good mood :P Just a thought.

Hi Anderson,

Yes, Mr. Obama and Mr. Huckabee's speeches were exceptional, and I congratulate them for their win.

But as we all know, this is only the beginning of a long road ahead. There are more caucuses and primaries to come, each state is different, so it's still anybody's game. Mr. Obama and Mr. Huckabee know this, so I'm sure they won't be resting on their laurels anytime soon.

Thanks :)
Lilibeth
Edmonds, Washington

Mike Huckabee;s ability to connect with an audience is dangerous considering he has such close ties with the Christian Reconstructionist Movement which believes Old Testament Biblical law should replace the U.S. Constitution.

This is one of the most interesting Presidential elections in some time but it also has the potential to become the most dangerous election if we do not fully investigate the true position of these candidates before electing one to office.

Anderson,

Yes, this was an exciting and promising start to the 2008 presidential campaign.

While I agree that Huckabee connects with people and comes across as likeable and appealing, I think he will not be a true contender. We need more substance and someone who can really put forth serious and credible solutions for the serious problems that our country faces. I don't think Huckabee is that person. He has made it interesting and Romney had a wakeup call. Now we will see what happens as Romney and McCain slug it out in New Hampshire.

As a lifelong Democrat, I am much more invested in the contest shaping up between Obama and Hillary. Obama did make an inspiring speech, but I will wait and see how he does in New Hampshire. Let's see if he can sustain and build on the momentum from his victory in Iowa. For Hillary, this was a disappointment and a reality check. There will be no gimmes in this road to the Democratic presidential nomination. I predicted here that she would come in second with Obama winning. Well, she came in third and it wasn't close with Obama pulling away from both her and Edwards. I think she has to rethink her strategy and she doesn't have a lot of time until the vote next week in New Hampshire.

Having cut my teeth on Bobby Kennedy's 1968 presidential campaign, I have a good deal of experience in the rough and tumble world of politics. I know that we should not read too much into Obama's win in Iowa. It was definitely a great start for him, but history has shown that a lot can change down the road.

I will wait to see what happens in New Hampshire before drawing any conclusions. If Obama wins there, then I will believe that he has a real chance.

Hi Anderson,
You are right, this election is one of the most interesting in a long time. People finally seem to be motivated to vote, either for change or because they support the status quo. The coverage last night was very informative. Good job!

Anderson,

Who would have thought the Iowa caucuses would be exciting? I still think that it is a very close race and anything can happen. Now it is a matter of whom the voters of the second and third place candidates would vote for if they were no longer in the race. Aside from Hillary Clinton's third place finish I can't say that I was surprised by the results; I predicted the two top winners, Huckabee and Obama, in the 360 blog on Wednesday.

I noticed that you had a little trouble with your "pizza chart" yesterday; I think you need a little more practice!

See you tonight!
Jo Ann
North Royalton, Ohio

Anderson:

Last night was indeed very interesting. However, if we think we are any closer to calling a candidate, we need to come to a screeching halt! Last night was an anomaly. This is most likely the beginning of the end for politics as we have seen them over the last generations. We have a new generation of voters who are seriously taking part in this decision. They have learned through many different arenas that everything mandated by the next President and the next Congress will seriously effect their future.

One thing we can look forward to is the writing of many books that will give us new insight into this new generation of politics.

Edwards also gave a really good speech. It was very passionate and well constructed. From his attitude and enthusiasm you'd have thought he won Iowa last night.

Hilary just sounded like a loser. The kind of loser who's trying really hard to not look like a loser. She kept speaking on broader terms, about Democrats in general taking back the White House. It just really annoyed me. It's good to have grace when you lose, but it just seemed so fake.

I'm ony 18, but I'm already jaded and cynical about this whole election. Every speech just seems like advertising. Is the person with the better phrases and slogans going to win? The person with the better team of speech writers? I really want to know If any of the major canidates running write their own material.

Okay, done being a grouch.(=

Prior to Obama's win last night in Iowa only a few Democratic candidates chose to be on the MI primary ballot, but today they are all, or those that are left and not already on the ballot, want to be added. So to give everyone a fair chance they have until 4 PM to sign up as write in candidates. However, where does that leave those of us who have already sent in our absentee ballots, out in the cold of course. All I can say to these candidates is never underestimate the power of Michigan voters.

This IS shaping up to be a very strange election year indeed. Hopefully by the time election night comes everything will be sorted out and we will have a clear understanding how the two candidates stand on the issues and the election systems will all be such that we will not have a repeat of the last two elections and things will run smoothly, but I'm not holding my breath on that one.

Sorry, but I tired from the Wolf Blitzer marathon. I thought your pizza pie chart was too cheesy, especially since it was the same chart used by Wolf.

I did however keep dropping a lot of coins in my charity change jar. Laughed when even Larry King got into the action, then cried when Wolf was part of King's show, too. Doesn't CNN understand that variety is the spice of life?

As another 18 year old and first time voter I can understand the frustration with the repetition. I've had the good fortune of seeing Senator Obama in person a few time and the speeches tend to be very similar. I think it's important to keep in mind however, that each time these candidates deliver a speech they probably go into it thinking they have the opportunity to reach people who are on the fence about them or know nothing about them at all.

Also on another note I think the media is really down playing Edwards right now. I understand today is the "political morning after" and that Iowa is in the rear view mirror at this point, but I think that it's still a big showing for him considering the fact that most people considered this race a two way battle on the democratic side.

I was watching Bill Clinton's face during Hilary's speech and I swear he was more disappointed than his wife. I was surprised because usually he's good at not showing his true feelings.
I have to congratulate Barack Obama for his wonderful speech and determination. Mike Huckabee too, he was obviously thrilled.

Hi Anderson!

I thought the CNN coverage of the Iowa Caucus last night was great! And I agree, this is shaping up to be an interesting race.

Although Obama took Iowa, it's still way too early to discount Clinton and Edwards. I thought Obama's speach was good, but it came across a little to slick to me.

The Huckabee win didn't surprise me, but unfortunately I don't think he'll take the nomination. I don't particularly care for Romney (and it has nothing to do with him being Mormon). Actually, of the Republican candidates I like Huckabee the best.

Looking forward to tonight's program, see you there.

Mindy
Surprise, AZ

Hey Cooper,
Last night was certainly "appointment tv", as I imagine many primary nights to come will be. The thing that worries me is the rush to pick a winner. For a year it was "Hillary's a done deal" and now so many newsies are writing her off as a dismal failure. As a former media member, I know how easy it is to get wrapped up in the excitement, no matter how much professional distance you try to keep between yourself and the story. I just think that the media world will be doing this country a great disservice if they pronounce a party winner anytime before Super Tuesday. As an aside, Hillary's not my candidate, nor is Obama. Just thought I should add that.

peace and love and mardi gras,
Julie in Shreveport

NO KIDDING THE PLOT THICKENS!!!

I was completely blown away by last night's results and most definitely everything changed.

Barack Obama has certainly matured over the last several months and his speech definitely had elements of a Martin Luther King Jr-esque message. How inspiring!

I'll definitely give Huckabee credit for his underdog overtake.

This election is historical. I cannot be more excited to see the developments as they unravel.

I thought the coverage last night was phenomenal!! CNN definitely has the best political team. I have to agree with you, concerning the speeches last night. It is probably one of the most interesting presidential races in history! I am looking forward to see what happens in New Hampshire,because it is anyone's race. Thanks for the fantastic coverage! See you tonight.

yes, the plot of life always thickens, or in this case politics.

i agree, it's very interesting this time around, usually i don't pay much attention to politics, but this time i might just a little. and with you to guide me through it on 360 i might just a little bit more.

yes, they are all smart, charismatic, engaging characters, but will they end terrorism once and for all, unemployment, violence and bestow complete health and security upon all? that is the question.

see ya tonight anderson!

I found Barack Obama's speech very impressive. Second, I would rate Mike Huckabee and third, John Edwards. Although I like Hilary Clinton too, I wasn't too keen on her speech.

P.S. Happy New Year, Anderson! I wish you continued success, health and happiness.

Anna, Toronto, ON, Canada

Great speeches are usually created by really good speech writers and presented by talented speakers. No brainer. Just because Obama has a good writer it doesn't mean words will become action. Can he walk the talk? Everyone can babble about change. Will that actually happen and how? I think last night was an anomaly. The numbers weren't that impressive for any candidate looking at it from a statistical standpoint. It's still early. My guy McCain (yep, I finally decided on one) is most qualified, but is somewhat old school, and I'm just hoping that experience and smarts play out more than preachers, career politicians, and JFK wannabes in the long haul. Not placing any big bets, though. You all did a good job last night. I surfed a bit for various perspectives, but you were the ones making the most sense out of the results for all the candidates. Looking forward to what NH may bring next week. Think I'll give my students extra points if they watch and discuss it the next day.

dem·a·gogue also dem·a·gog (dm-gôg, -gg)
n.
1. A leader who obtains power by means of impassioned appeals to the emotions and prejudices of the populace.

I would like to believe that the American people are too smart to elect a demagogue this time, but the frustration with the Bush administration may cause some to leap before they look. Here's hoping the media will fulfill it's role to educate and inform.

It was quit a night. A tall hurdle I think was jumped when Obama won last night in Iowa. It is interesting to see how women, men, whites, blacks, elderly, and the young vote. I think this is going to be a nail biting race to the white house from now until that last precinct turns in its final count. I am looking forward to NH on Tuesday, but lets try to remember WY on Saturday, it might not be as big but it still counts.

Randi - Michigan

Thank you for the wonderful coverage last night, Anderson (and everyone else on the CNN team). This is the first election that I will be able to vote in and certainly the election that I have taken the most interest in. As one of the youngest citizens eligible to vote in the 2008 election (my 18th birthday is on election day, November 4th), I was especially fascinated by the age-group breakdowns that your panel of analysts did. It was great to see that the youngest age group provided so many of Obama's votes in the Iowa caucus and was crucial in cementing his win; this truly shows that the voices of the youngest generation of voters CAN and WILL make a difference in the upcoming election.

I am fairly certain of who I will vote for in November, but your program last night made me certain of something possibly even more important: that my vote matters, and it's imperative that my fellow young voters and I show up at the polls. Thank you for last night's informative, well-run program, and I will continue to watch CNN for updates as the presidential race continues. Keep up the great work!

-Jessica
McLean, VA

I'm just glad that this election is so interesting, so we can avoid having to hear about Brittany's meltdown or OJ's legal troubles. Also, I hear the rumor is that you have "the best politcal team", or at least according to Wolf Blitzer you do since he said it about 100 times last night!!

It was interesting last night. I thought the coverage on CNN was outstanding. Very timely but cautious result reporting. The insight from the various analysts was awesome, very talented and intelligent pool of people. I liked all the graphics and did catch the pizza pie in action (so to speak) as it moved around. Not sure yet on that but it was different. I will give you that. New Hampshire should be interesting. Overall I am really liking all the Democratic candidates. Romney worries me that he is trying to buy the election. I like Huckabee but not sure he is experienced enough. I guess time will tell. As we kind of expected I think the American people want change and I'm not sure McCain is offering that up. Ok, I have no room to talk. What the heck do I know...I'll wait and see what shakes out on Tuesday and continue to watch the coverage and stay informed as Super Tuesday approaches.

Not to detract from Barack Obama’s speech (which was great), but I thought that John Edwards gave the best speech of the night. It was really interesting to see the way he handled it. Even though Edwards’ speech was more serious than celebratory, and in fact it was at times a real downer, he came off sounding more passionate about the issues than did any of the other candidates.

Given that his campaign does not have the same level of financing as some of the other campaigns, last night’s speech might have been his last best shot at that level of attention. It was a smart move on his part.

I would love to see an Obama/Edwards ticket in November.

Hi Anderson!
Though I have read many Op Ed articles today stating that the Iowa Caucuses don't really mean anything in the political process of electing a president, I have to disagree. The turn out itself, both Democratic and Republican, is very revealing to the seriousness of how the American people want change and new leadership.

For many Iowa caucuses of the past, the caucus process seemed more like a formality than a prediction on who will have the popularity or conviction to move to New Hampshire and carry the primaries to Super Tuesday. This time though...WHAT A LAUNCH!

Thank you and CNN for great coverage!

It felt great to participate in history last night here in Iowa. Record turnouts and surprising results. Thanks, Anderson and CNN for the excellent coverage. Now, we in Iowa can go back to obscurity and start answering our phones again!

I was impressed for sure with the floating pizza pie chart technology last night. How did they do that? It did look like you struggled a bit to get it to work for a minute there. Gotta work on those pizza delivery skills Anderson, other than that, great coverage.
Are you kidding? Hucklebee will win again in NH! Of course he's not experienced but who has experience being President until they become President?
Valerie, Hillside, NJ

"Wow...", I'll say.

Did I miss another of Britney's meltdowns? Darn. I thought Edward's speech had a lot of substance, Hillary's sucked, and Obama was inspiring. Huckabee was a pastor and spoke as a pastor, heart to heart, spirit to spirit. Still dislike his stands on important issues, but I like him, hey, "I like Mike"! BUT,not enough to ever vote for him.
And did anyone else think that Chuck Norris' teeth were weirdly white and plastic looking?? I almost needed sun glasses to stop the blinding whiteness of them choppers!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Don't ever have your teeth whitened Anderson, it's sooooo phoney. Just brush those ivories and floss. keep it real, ok?
Kindest Regards,
VIVA CHANGE,
Tita
In
OREGON

LOL Andy.
I did miss all that Britney stuff because I was watching the Iowa coverage last night.
OMG, look at what you and CNN have done to me! Haha.
I never thought there would be a day I would be more interested in politics than avidly reading Perez's site. [8
Also, I'm really happy for Barack Obama. :D

Ah, Britney, she's homegrown here in Louisiana, what a tribute...

Wow, I just never thought I would ever, ever think of voting for a Democrat, being from South Louisiana. Being tired of the "Christianist" regime of Bush, and wanting change, no matter how vaguely defined.

Today hearing his speech that Obama wants to make healthcare affordable, instead of hearing the words "universal" and such, I just might think him the least inimicable Democrat, and I kinda like him.

But, I should get back to my new years drinking habit, 'gimme more'.

Julie in New Orleans, Louisiana

I am a white female from South Carolina. I asked several people today what their thoughts were on Barack's win last night. It turns out that many African Americans would not vote for him for the reason that they fear for his life. They feel that if he were elected, someone would kill him as they did Martin Luther King!
I was shocked by the response! I expected that many would be delighted by the win!
Teressa
Cheraw, South Carolina

I have a feeling that Barack Obama will be the next president. His messege is clear and is shown in him, especially in his Iowa caucus winning speech. And look at those supporters, a variety of age, gender and race.
But still, I would rather vote for Huckabee though...

Peppita Poerwowidagdo
Surabaya, INDONESIA

I am sixteen. I am black. I was pro-Hillary until very recently. Hillary seduced me with promises of experienced leadership and even almost got me with her recent focus on "change," which seems to be the "in" thing for Democratic candidates to do. Now, Barack Obama is my man. Though not yet old enough to vote, I am old enough to care. Barack is a change that America desperately needs in both image and leadership. No matter where you stand on the issues, you must agree how agreeable this man is. His attitude of spirited leadership and incredible vision will hopefully trump all others in the forthcoming primaries and general election. My generation, though still relatively uninterested in general in politics, is beginning to notice. I do have a message for blacks who say they won't vote because "he may be killed." That's incredibly offensive. If you believe in the words and message of Martin Luther King, you should stand up for what's right. No matter the cost. If he is killed, he will be elevated to a kind of greatness not seen since King's days. Believe. Give him a chance. Our time is now.

Allan
Glenn Dale, MD
Age 16

I thought the results of the Iowa caucuses were VERY exciting. I was most excited for Obama's win among the Democrats. While I have always been a supporter of his throughout the entire election process thus far, I honestly did not think he was going to win. I thought he was too liberal and too different for Iowan voters, who are primarily conservative and and very religious and white.

Also, his speech was very reminiscent of many of Martin Luther King's. I truly think he is setting a great example for the country.

I'm the Executive Director of a non-profit here in Hawaii that works within the most densely populated highest crime areas in the State. Every day we deal with issues of poverty, gang violence, ethnic tensions, juvenile delinquency, family disintegration, and more. During this election period, I find myself wondering, what or who would it be that would motivate the people I work for and with, to want to know anything about the upcoming elections and want to get out and vote...I think in part, it would be someone who showed real compassion, empathy, and a passion for effecting positive change in the lives of not just the middle-class and above, but those at the bottom...someone who would be interested in not just giving out handouts but teaching and empowering peole to stand on their own two feet...Barak Obama has the potential to be that person, but for me, even having graduated from the same high school! ... I'm undecided.

Pat Robertson was interviewed after he endorsed Rudi. In it, when asked about the contradiction in endorsing someone who is pro-choice, he said that he had to decide what he felt would be the most pressing issue facing this country in the coming years. He decided that national security and the spread of terrorism were the most pressing priorities in the coming years, and that while he felt strongly about the abortion issue, he felt even stronger about protecting this country. Ordinarily I do not agree with Pat Robertson on much, but I thought it was an insightful way to look at our candidate choices in this election period/season.

You're right in that the plot has definitely thickened ... and I think that for every American it would/should come down to what they determine within their own minds and hearts, is the most pressing issue facing this country in the coming years ... and which candidate would best address that issue...we have to be willing to look past some deficiencies to address these most important issues, because no candidate is perfect, no candidate will have everything you want in a President. One friend says social security, retirement, America's aging population is the most pressing issue. One friend says it is immigration. One friend says national security. Each friend, based on that, may want to vote for a different candidate, despite disagreeing about other things. Me, I don't know what I feel will be the most pressing issue in the coming years yet...when I know that, I will know who I vote for, no matter how inspiring or uninspiring a speech or campaign may be.

Thank you for your continued insight and passion for communicating the truth as you see and experience it. I hope 2008 brings you the feelings you talk about being the driving force behind your constant travel and movement towards disaster and tragedy. I hope 2008 brings you a true sense of peace and an answer to the questions that drive you.

Michelle recently said it, and Obama last night in Iowa said that the country is "in fear". Why do they keep saying this? I m guessing it's to do with terrorism, but Obama's cut and run strategy won't keep fundamentalist Muslims from wanting to destroy America and Christians and Jews. Why won't Obama elaborate on his "fear" comment?

As a 29 year old living in North Carolina, I have found these debates to be much more stimulating than previous years. I have yet to decide on who I will be voting on but the debates have helped. In previous years I felt as if the candidates rehearsed the debate prior to the event.

Although the debate was very intriguing, I did however notice a trend between Richardson and Edwards. I found Edwards was aligning himself with Obama and Richardson was aligning himself with Clinton as if they were already backing out and taking the Vice Presidential seats.

It is going to be a great race. I am holding out for more discussion from the Democrats on the specifics of Healthcare reform and further actions to improve the economy.

I am a resident physician and am worried about the future of the medical field here in the US. We have such a shortage of physicians and the reimbursement is so low now that most new physicians cannot even afford to pay off enormous school loans.

Anyway thanks for the dialog Anderson and others. Have a great work week.

Amazing floating pizza charts? A great alternative to watching the Britney Meltdown? Do we all understand that electing the next president of the US and all the coverage involved is not the same as watching and voting for our favorite american idol? The next US President whomever he or she maybe has the power to decide the lives, life styles and death of each and everyone of us. They will decide where our troops go and how long they stay, how much gas & food costs, whether healthcare companies cover our families or not, whether the jobs we have now will remain in the US or end up in India or China or elsewhere, whether our food will be safe, whether our children will be "adequately" educated, whether our personal & national security will be compromised by backroom deals conducted on behalf of lobbyists or big business, whether we hear the facts as the are or the "spin" that a powerful multinational organization owned by a partisan billionaire chooses to provide us with. It shouldnt matter if the debates, coverage, caucauses are "stimulating". Not if you really care about the life you live and how you live it. Stimulating gets ratings. Ratings procure advertising. Advertising garners insane amounts of revenue. Revenue results in massive profits. "Stimulating" does not mean it is accurate, valid, objective, relevant, or informative. We need to see past the shiny paper and decide for ourselves what the major issues of our lives are for us and vote accordingly. We need to start figuring out what we really want and need instead of taking what we are given.

Dear Anderson
Since you keep them honest I wonder how we can ask Hillary, how is this change:

Clinton, Bush, Bush, Clinton.......

which is what she is proposing.
By the way, I just think the whole world _ literally_ is watching this process and I am so proud of Senator Obama.