Recently a commercial was released by Sen. Clinton’s campaign hinting at Sen. Obama’s inability to adequately handle national security issues. Days earlier she was at the debate discussing how much she respects Sen. Obama now she promotes more smear tactics. It is simply the game of politics.

The “3 A.M.” ad as it is called, has been permeating through Ohio and Texas television sets for the past couple of days. Sen. Clinton has not found much support for this commercial and it seems like a last ditch effort on her part. Ever since the last debate Sen. Clinton has seemed to be playing from behind.

As the debate raged on in Ohio, the two Democratic candidates fought viciously for pole position. As the snow poured on Cleveland Sen. Hillary Clinton attempted to dissuade the campaign efforts made by Sen. Barack Obama. Senator Clinton’s main argument revolved around the “hope”factor that permeates throughout the Obama campaign. She believes that Sen. Obama’s campaign holds very little substance and that his campaign focuses on out-of-reach goals.

Sen. Obama took this criticism and at the end of the debate made it clear that he respects his opponent and her bid for the Presidency. “I am absolutely clear that hope is not enough.”

Clinton has been playing from behind as the race moves forward and the attacks against her opponent, Sen. Barack Obama, have increased and intensified. With the recent “anonymous” release of the photo of Sen. Obama in traditional Somalian nomadic attire the politics of politics are increasing.

During debates it seems as if Sen. Clinton has a great deal of respect for Sen. Obama and on some occasions makes it crystal clear. However, the debate at Cleveland State University on February 26, 2008 provided a few video clips of the disconnect between Sen. Clinton’s debate rhetoric and her campaign trail rhetoric.

In a particular clip the video shows Sen. Clinton mocking the campaign speeches of Sen. Obama. She believes that his campaign is in the clouds when it should be on the ground. She attempts to sound like Sen. Obama even imitating his delivery and hand gestures. Why the disconnect? Every time we see a debate there is no display of disrespect, but once outside the gloves come off.

Ohio is a very important state and this debate as well as the primary on March 4th will help prove that. Caleb Faux explained that people in Ohio understand the importance of the coming weeks and are excited to be a part of it. Faux, the Executive Director of the Hamilton County Democratic Party in Ohio, believes that the Buckeye state’s primary may decide the national election.

Smear tactics are simply a part of politics. They are used to gain the upper hand in order to bolster one’s own campaign. Voters will have differing views on the virtuosity of the tactics, Faux added, “it depends for the most part on who people support.”

Barbara Rousey explained how the recent tactics employed Sen. Clinton and the strength of Sen. Obama have influenced the vote. Citizens in Ohio are realizing that these tactics are not good politics. It is a disgusting side dish that candidates eat every now and then.

Rousey, a volunteer for the Franklin County Democratic Party described how the atmosphere has been intensifying as the March 4th inches closer. This offensive attack employed by Sen. Clinton has really gotten the attention of the people. Ohioans are turning out in record numbers, demanding absentee ballots, conversing about issues, and just like the rest of the country being swept up by the sheer amazement this race has provided.

The state of Ohio is a big sign state. Folks want signs and buttons because their interest is increasing as this race fires up. Rousey spoke about the Obama rally at Ohio State University on February 27th. People were lined up before 8 in the morning to catch a glimpse of Sen. Obama.

Their was a negative aspect associated with this long line. As an employee for the law school at OSU attempted to kick everyone out because he was a Clinton supporter and did not enjoy their company.

Rousey explained that this is why Republicans are switching sides, independents are moving toward Obama , and Clinton supporters are wavering, because of the difference in campaigns.

Rousey added that “as a woman I am disappointed that Hillary is not doing better.” She is now an Obama supporter due to the excitement, respect, and inspiration employed by Sen. Obama’s campaign.

The folks that support Hillary will not be swayed by these smear tactics but those on the fence will move closer to Obama. These tactics are not strong and respectable politics and citizens are beginning to realize that.

Rousey, along with Franklin County project manager Mary Woods believe that this election is something special. They also believe that this election is the right time to make a change, and they both see that happening.

Apparently it is already happening in Ohio.