Outbursts, Rebukes, Questions of Honesty: Barack and Hillary Campaigning in South Carolina

CHARLES BABINGTON writes:

ROCK HILL, S.C. - Democrat Barack Obama questioned Hillary Rodham Clinton's candor and trustworthiness Wednesday, saying she has indulged in double-talk on bankruptcy laws, trade and other issues.

The Illinois senator's comments, continuing a theme he has stressed in recent days, may have contributed to an outburst by former President Clinton, who rebuked Obama and sharply accused journalists of treating him more gently than they treat the Clintons.

The atmosphere grew more charged throughout the day after Clinton's campaign aired an ad in South Carolina suggesting Obama approved of Republican ideas.

Questions about the candidates' honesty and consistency have been paramount since Monday's testy presidential debate between Obama and Clinton...