And base they are.
Leiberman still has enough of a solid reputation in his party, even if the Hard Left hates him, that his statements today do make waves, and DO detract from Hillary's comments.
This is what happens when someone follows polls or lets themselves be dictated by their lunatic fringe rather than principle.
The woman is neither the smartest on the planet nor the most adept politician. Without the MSM, handlers usually keeping her under lockdown and her husband's ability to lie with ease she'd never have had a prayer.
She isn't likeable. She's naturally shrill. She doesn't have good political instincts. She has an adequate intelligence but surely is not a genius. She is only endeared to the Katie's and MoDo's of the world that make up a very small percentage on the Left. She isn't quick on her feet.
She'd be a disaster in a concentrated year long campaign. Kerry tried to avoid the press, but he eventually had to come out of hiding. To disastrous effect. So would she. This is why Republicans that don't fear her want her to be chosen.