Hillary Clinton Campaign Press Release - Memo: Countdown to PA Primary

Date: April 21, 2008

To: Interested Parties

From: Mark Nevins, Pennsylvania Communications Director

Re: Countdown to PA Primary

Today, the Clinton campaign in Pennsylvania unveiled a new television ad that delivers Senator Hillary Clinton's closing argument in the Keystone State.

In contrast to the negative attacks from the Obama campaign, Hillary enters Primary Day with a positive TV spot that details how tough the job of President is, and asks voters who they think is ready to step in and handle it. Senator Obama is doing everything he can to win Pennsylvania outright, outspending the Clinton campaign by a three to one margin in the state, and sharply attacking Senator Clinton on the stump and in television, radio, and direct mail pieces.

You can view the ad here

Meanwhile, Senator Obama is spending an estimated $11.2 million to the Clinton campaign's $4.8 million in Pennsylvania. The $7 million gap in funding between the two campaigns could fund an entire campaign in another state. The Obama campaign is pouring unprecedented amounts of that money into their negative TV, radio and direct mail efforts, as well as paid phone calls.

If Senator Obama is unable to do well here, it will raise questions about his ability to win the large, swing states that he needs to win to take the election in November.

Senator Obama's negative tactics in Pennsylvania are part of a growing pattern seen in other states: when his back is against the wall, he tends to go on the attack. Senator Obama would rather throw punches than give thoughtful responses to key concerns from voters. He is going to have to do a much better job at addressing these issues if he wants to convince voters and superdelegates of his ability to win in a general election against John McCain.

Senator Clinton is continuing to criss-cross Pennsylvania, talking to voters about the issues that are important to them, like the economy, health care and the Iraq war. After 35 years of making change, Hillary has the experience to lead the country on day one in the White House.

The job of a President is tough. Hillary has what it takes to handle it.