First Black President

Barack Obama's election is a historic first for the United States. U.S. News asked African-American scholars and political experts for their reactions.

Cornel West: Obama Changes Everything
Obama’s historic victory opens a new era and closes an old one, writes Cornel West; how will he govern?

Benjamin Todd Jealous: Obama's Victory Proves Change Is Possible
A moment hundreds of years in the making, brought about by millions of engaged citizens.

Terry Edmonds: After 220 Years, a Black President
“Not in our lifetime,” former Clinton speechwriter Terry Edmonds used to say. No more.

Robin D.G. Kelley: Obama's Heritage Is Political, Not Racial
Obama ran a raceless campaign, but must ignite a national focus on race, USC's Robin Kelley writes.

Kendrick B. Meek: A New World for Our Children
Barack Obama’s election means a great change for the next generation, Kendrick Meek writes.

Walter Earl Fluker: Obama Has New Ideas, Must Handle Old Problem
Obama must deal with America's original sin, Morehouse College's Walter Earl Fluker writes.

Alton Pollard: Obama’s Victory Echoes Historic Moments
Recalling Selma and Mandela, the U.S. achieves its potential, Howard University’s Alton Pollard writes.