The story

Democratic front-runner Sen. Hillary Clinton fought back at criticism from some of her presidential rivals Thursday night, decrying what she termed mudslinging and defending her record against the charge that she avoids taking firm positions on controversial issues.

"The American people know where I've stood for 35 years," Clinton said during a CNN-sponsored debate at the University of Nevada-Las Vegas.

"This is going to be one of the most important elections we've ever had in our country's history, and it is important that we have a candidate who is tested as a president who is ready to lead from day one." Read full article »

All About Hillary Clinton • John Edwards • Barack Obama • Bill Richardson • Joseph Biden • Christopher Dodd • Dennis Kucinich