In a nation where free speech and belief systems are valued, I sure do get a lot of flack for believing in Hillary Clinton.

I guess I have fallen into favoring the idea of a Clinton "dynasty," as some Clinton-bashers collectively named the presidency of Bill with a potential Hillary term. I was very happy with Clinton's terms in office; it seemed like good things happened for the economy (making a surplus), though many weren't satisfied with relations abroad (they really think they ignored warnings of a terrorist attack?). I am convinced that Hillary has a good amount of experience with the presidential position... I am one of those who believe she played a big role in the White House.

It's certainly not that I am against Barack Obama. I really wouldn't mind too much if he became president, which is more than likely at this point. There are a few things I don't like about him, but they are tolerable. His attitude bothers me, but I guess that can be worked around. I can get picky about that stuff.

I also respect those who support Obama, but at least where I'm from, it can be difficult to be around them when they get in Obama mode. They could be so rude during the primaries. At work, we'd watch the contests on TV, and they would make snide comments with every Hillary victory, like, "Where did she get her outfit from?" while sometimes even calling her other choice words. They even cut out pictures of Hillary and a dinosaur, sticking her in its mouth. How old are we again?

They would certainly make sure to question my reasons for supporting her. I would be doing my work when they would begin their Clinton tirades and I would ask if they would please stop. They would turn to me and say, "Do you seriously like her?" while proceeding to ask me why, not letting up until I would sigh and grumble back into my work.

I have also been saddened by the media treatment of Clinton. I am not just saying that because others have speculated there have been differences in the types of coverage between Clinton and Obama. I truly have witnessed what they cut out and what they choose to air, such as in my journalism classes. The media also pays more attention to what she wears, how her hair and make-up looks... Obama's appearance is something I've never seen on the news, whereas a New York Times article started out with comments concerning how great her makeup made her look. Outrageous.

I do think that Hillary should be above blaming sexism and other types of prejudice on her unsuccessful times. I don't think they are valid claims; I just think people are biased toward Obama because she is another Clinton.

There were times when I would cringe at certain things she would say, but I truly think she was treated unfairly. Even in certain interviews and debates, I felt she was drilled harder, especially compared to John McCain. What do you think?