Barack Obama

"You know after six years of George Bush, it is time to renew the promise of America," Clinton says in a videotaped message in which she invites voters to begin a dialogue with her on the major issues health care, Social Security and Medicare, and the war in Iraq.

"I'm not just starting a campaign, though, I'm beginning a conversation with you, with America," she said. "Let's talk. Let's chat. The conversation in Washington has been just a little one-sided lately, don't you think?"

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In what the Associated press calls a a defiant statement and a nod to questions about her electability Clinton said: "I have never been afraid to stand up for what I believe in or to face down the Republican machine. After nearly $70 million spent against my campaigns in New York and two landslide wins, I can say I know how Washington Republicans think, how they operate, and how to beat them."

Just a note - Hillary will have to be elected outside of the very liberal New York state, and Washington republicans are the least of her worries.

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The Chicago tribune notes that Obama today offered a decidedly warmer remark about Clinton's candidacy than the one she made about his on NBC's Today Show earlier this week -- Clinton said the voters will have to decide.

"Senator Clinton is a good friend and a colleague whom I greatly respect,'' Obama said in a statement issued by his office. "I welcome her and all the candidates, not as competitors, but as allies in the work of getting our country back on track.''