@skfinkel, One of the things that comes with being in public life for 35 years (as Hillary is quick to note) is that there is a lot more dirt to dig up than for someone who is relatively new on the scene.
Obama inspires people. He draws huge crowds wherever he goes. He helped create by far the biggest turnout in Iowa caucus history. He draws people into the process who are jaded by years of triangulation.
Clinton strikes many people (me included, and I consider myself well left of the Democrats) as a cynical, insider, career politician. I don’t trust her as far as I can throw her. With Obama, I think there is at least a chance that America will rise to some higher expectations.