The TV Zone

Hillary Clinton hasn't done many major network interviews lately. In fact, none. Which makes tonight's Katie Couric encounter on "Evening News" of considerable interest. CBS recently sent out some outtakes, and we present them here unedited. Bottom line: No surprises.

CBS: "Polls in Iowa are showing the race could shape up to be very close. Couric asked Clinton if she’s lowering her expectations as the primary approaches...

CLINTON: I never raised them, when I got into the race, I was so far behind in Iowa it was embarrassing.

COURIC: Her campaign instead is “encouraged” she said, because “we're making progress - but I take nothing for granted, this is going to be a tight race.”

COURIC: Many of Obama’s supporters urged them to fight back. Some people interpreting that as your campaign being nervous.

CLINTON: Not case at all. Campaigns have rhythm and we're now down to end. We're going to have a mad-dash to Iowa caucuses, mad-dash to New Hampshire and then keep going,” she said.

COURIC: Has her campaign gotten more aggressive?

CLINTON: I have absorbed a lot of attacks, my opponents have basically had a free reign. After been attacked as often as have from several of my opponents, you can't just absorb it, you have to respond.

COURIC: Clinton said she wants voters to know how her plans - particularly health care - stack up against those of other candidates. She named Obama’s plan particularly.

CLINTON: It’s about time for me to draw a contrast. And that’s what I’m going to do.

COURIC: But it was announced today that Oprah Winfrey was campaigning with Obama in three key states.

CLINTON: I think it's great. I'm proud to have a lot of distinguished Americans [supporting me].

COURIC: Is she concerned Obama will get a major boost from Winfrey’s enthusiastic fan base?

CLINTON: No, at the end of the day…I’m proud to have my husband support me…with his knowledge, experience and incredible ability to vouch for me.

COURIC: And if Clinton is not the democratic nominee, wouldn’t she be disappointed?

CLINTON: Well, it will be me.