The Wright Time for Obama to Consider Dropping Out
Sen. Barack Obama's response to the Rev. Jeremiah Wright's incendiary appearance on Monday at the National Press Club is not just a day late and a dollar short: It's a month and a half late and a few million dollars short.
Wright's self-promoting and racially divisive remarks have set back a half-century of progress on race relations in the United States. Obama's long-delayed denunciation of his former minister seems to have come too late to save the senator's political self-immolation.
Obama's first self-destructive act was his secretly recorded remarks before wealthy San Francisco donors describing working-class white voters as "bitter" and "clinging" to guns and religion. That remark cost him dearly in the Pennsylvania primary among Roman Catholics and working-class whites.
Obama's second act of self-immolation was his delay in denouncing a man who blames whites for creating the AIDS virus to wipe out people of color and calls America a terrorist nation. Obama's denunciation of Wright yesterday and the time it took him to sever ties to Wright may well end up costing Obama large portions of the rest of the white voting demographic.
We may soon start to see the defection from his campaign of superdelegate support. The New York Times reports, "Eileen Macoll, a Democratic county chairman from Washington State who has not chosen a candidate, said she was stunned at the extent of national attention the episode [Wright's remarks] has drawn, and she said she believed it would give superdelegates pause. 'I'm a little surprised at how much traction it is getting, and I do believe it is beginning to reflect negatively on Senator Obama's campaign,' Ms. Macoll said. 'I think he's handling it very well, but I think it's almost impossible to make people feel comfortable about this.' "
HuffingtonPost.com quotes a SurveyUSA North Carolina poll showing Sen. Hillary Clinton closing in fast on Obama there. This poll was released the same day that North Carolina's governor, a superdelegate, endorsed Clinton and the same day that Obama finally denounced Wright. In other words, the full impact of both these events was not yet felt when this poll was taken:
April 29: A SurveyUSA North Carolina poll shows a considerably closer race than the other polling firms. SurveyUSA also gave a smaller initial lead that anyone else in the race, but the tightening is now showing across the board:
Barack Obama: 49%
Hillary Clinton: 44%"
As soon as polls start to show the extent of alienation Obama has produced among white Democratic voters, superdelegates won't be far behind. If Obama does not carry North Carolina next week by double digits, he will be in serious trouble. Look for calls by party leaders for him to drop out if his victory in North Carolina is not convincing.
In case you needed one, here from washingtonpost.com is a refresher on what Wright said on Monday:
From the moment he entered the room, Wright seemed to be looking to stir controversy; he was escorted by Jamil Muhammad, a leader of the Nation of Islam, which contributed to the minister's prominent security detail. Speaking before an audience that included Marion Barry, Cornel West, the New Black Panther Party's Malik Zulu Shabazz and Nation of Islam protocol director Claudette Muhammad, Wright praised Louis Farrakhan, defended the view that Zionism is racism, accused the United States of terrorism, repeated his belief that the government created AIDS to extinguish racial minorities, and stood by his suggestion that "God damn America."
And remember what Obama said about this man six weeks ago:
"I can no more disown him than I can disown the black community."
Tags: presidential election 2008 | Barack Obama | Jeremiah Wright
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Reader Comments
Dream On
Dream on, lady. If you think we're going to put back that lying, sleazey, corrupt Billary machine, you're crazy. Obama may have a crazy ex-Pastor, but the Clintons have more former associates who went to jail- not to mention that Bill was impeached and disbarred. How much are they paying you?
Obama
Erbes comments sound like more Hillary Blarney !!!
chicken little
Though the media lives and breathes sound bites and news cycles, it rarely serves a pupose other than entertainment. Everything is a crisis, and the sky is always falling. Reality is that you rarely get it right (how could you, almost like a meteorologist predicting rain every day). Will be interesting to see what world-ending (or campaign-ending) "story" you are talking about on Friday. Perhaps a little self-reflection is in order.
Bonnie Erbe
can angone say the words "SELF CENTER ASS?"
Out of your mind
So i assume you are also calling for Mccain and Clinton to drop out becdause of the things there religious supporters have said or represent. You really are just exposing yourself as a Clinton supporter who wants to see a woman president at any cost. Just be careful what you wish for.
Obama will weather this and most likely come out for the the better. The cynic that I am I still have enough faith in the majority of the people to know and reject bullshit when they see it. Obama drop out..............................................my ass!
The man who has won 30 states should not drop out.
This article is absurd. The so called trouble for Obama has nothing to do with anything he, himself said or did. I dont understand why Rev. Wright opens his mouth and then it in turn hurts Obama. Why is Obama hurt by things he did not say? It baffles me.
If Hillary won more states, more votes and more pledged delegates at this stage the race would be over. Can you explain why Obama is held to a different standards?
Disowned his Grandmother
He has already thrown his grandmother under the bus, and now Wright, and in time the black community which has voted for him heart and soul.
Why?
He is a politician of the worse kind who sells and emotion laden dream and does whwat he wants to because he has a cult following.
How come the media does not examine his fictionalized life story that he publiched as his autobiography? Obama has lied and manipulated his was to where he is today! He used wright to become a state senator and to get the connections for his political career and now wright is not usefull so Obama discards him.
I'm sorry but if Hillary is not the nominee I will vote McCain and it has nothing to do with race. I like Hillary but I would only vote Obama if a loaded gun was pressed against my head.
Would indeed be "silly" except it's serious
DO NOT forget that Rev. Wright would be a non-issue except for all the free coverage given to his views by the corporate media (who like Republicans.)
DO NOT forget that as soon as they destroy Obama, their attention will turn to Hillary and they will hound her to rage, then tears, about Bill in the 1990s and "what she knew" and "when she knew it.". Racism is just ONE of many "tricks" to kill your hopes and dreams and keep corporations "on top".
Your economy, your Supreme Court, your agencies, your law enforcement, your deficit, your education, your health care, your Social Security, your civil rights----are all on the line. It's about YOU and what YOU can lose-----and so far, you're dumb enough to think it's about some black preacher. Soap opera is next. Wake up!
Obamatrons strike Back
The Obamatrons will do anything to place Obama in the whitehouse. They lie, they steal, they intimidate. It is a scary time.
The media seem to be under the intoxicating spell of Obamatron kool-aid.
Last night he spoke as if when he met Wright 20 years ago. He dedicated his book to the man. He only two weeks agao referred to him as a family member. It is only because he is being called on it that Obama is throwing him under the bus.
Wright at leat is truthfull about his positions and statements, Obama is not. Wright may be a nut, yet he is a nut which Obama used for 20 years for political advantage.
Obama Roll On
No way should Obama drop out. Hillary should drop out. Her republican-style campaign is just disgusting. If through some totally bogus process she becomes the nominee, then I for one won't give her people the time of day, much less my vote.
I'd sooner see McCain win than her. Sure I'd hate to see the repugs get another four years, but hey, if the country has to go down the drain, a repug should take the blame.
Jenny
Obama's Chickens Come Home to Roost
Update: 56% who heard speech less likely to vote for Obama?
Obama's Chickens Come Home to Roost
that’s what Obama gets for his support and defense of the Rev Wright. Obama stated in his speech“Wright is like an uncle you love and respect” As imperfect as he may be, he has been family to me for so many years, I can no more disown him than I can disown the black community” Obama is now declaring himself shocked and disappointed at Wright's unrepentantly racist and anti-American views? Obamas obviously support his feelings of anti-America and white hatred that the church endoreses to stay for 20 years also why would a parent continue to raise their young daughters in that atmosphere .Obama can no longer plausibly claim innocence in this matter, because he is the one who has encouraged Wright by trying to excuse and explain his views. All of this is why it is no use for Obama to backpedal from his association with Reverend Wright, or to denounce him now, six weeks too late. It was Obama who sought to provide the Reverend Wright with immunity from criticism--and he can't complain when the reverend tries to take full advantage of that immunity. This is the final collapse of the noble promise of the Obama campaign. The man who had once put himself forward as the candidate who would transcend racial politics once and for all has ended up legitimizing a Christian equivalent of Louis Farrakhan--and injecting him into the American political debate. Wright “Calls for Justice and Repair,” followed a statement in which he declared that “The Biblical principle of true repentance is that the offended party is given compensation to make up for that which has been stolen from them, the losses that have been inflicted upon them and their families.” A reparations plan for blacks could extract several trillion dollars from American taxpayers’ pockets. THERES ABSOLUTLY NO CHANGE WITH OBAMAhttp://www.dontvoteobama.net
Obama Roll On
No way should Obama drop out. Hillary should drop out. Her republican-style campaign is just disgusting. If through some totally bogus process she becomes the nominee, then I for one won't give her people the time of day, much less my vote.
I'd sooner see McCain win than her. Sure I'd hate to see the repugs get another four years, but hey, if the country has to go down the drain, a repug should take the blame.
Jenny
Calm down.
No one is going to drop out out of the blue. The people of this country will decide, and they WILL decide, soon. Either candidate would be able to defeat Mc Cain once we all unite behind our nominee
REMARKS
can angone say the words self center ass? I CAN !!!! (BONNIE ERBE).
Just The Facts
DEBATE! DEBATE!! DEBATE!!!
It's time for everyone to face the truth. Barack Obama has no real chance of winning the national election in November at this time. His crushing defeat in Pennsylvania makes that fact crystal clear. His best, and only real chance of winning in November is on a ticket with Hillary Clinton as her VP.
Hillary Clinton seemed almost somber at her Pennsylvania victory speech. As if part of her was hoping Obama could have proved he had some chance of winning against the republican attack machine, and their unlimited money, and resources.
But it is absolutely essential that the democrats take back the Whitehouse in November. America, and the American people are in a very desperate condition now. And the whole World has been doing all that they can to help keep us propped up.
Hillary Clinton say's that the heat, and decisions in the Whitehouse are much tougher than the ones on the campaign trail. But I think Mr. Obama faces a test of whether he has what it takes to be a commander and chief by facing the difficult facts, and the truth before him. And by doing what is best for the American people by dropping out of the race, and offering his whole hearted assistance to Hillary Clinton to help her take back the Whitehouse for the American people, and the World.
Mr. Obama is a great speaker. And I am confident he can explain to the American people the need, and wisdom of such a personal sacrifice for them. It should be clear to everyone by now that Hillary Clinton is fighting her heart out for the American people. She has known for a long time that Mr. Obama can not win this November. You have to remember that the Clinton's have won the Whitehouse twice before. They know what it takes.
If Mr. Obama fails his test of commander and chief we can only hope that Hillary Clinton can continue her heroic fight for the American people. And that she prevails. She will need all the continual support and help we can give her. She may fight like a superhuman. But she is only human.
Sen. Hillary Clinton: "You know, more people have now voted for me than have voted for my opponent. In fact, I now have more votes than anybody has ever had in a primary contest for a nomination. And it's also clear that we've got nine more important contests to go."
Sincerely
Jacksmith... Working Class :-)
Obama dropping out
With all due respect, this is the dumbest suggestion I can imagine. Let's see, ahead in states, ahead in delegate county, ahead in popular vote almost tied in super delegates, raised more money than ANY candidate in history, more supporters that Clinton can imagine ever having.... and dropping out because of crazy stuff his ex-pastor says which Obama denounces? What a stretch... can you imagine the reaction of his supporters if he were to do such a thing on such grounds.. Obama said none of this ... Wright is not speaking for the candidate and obviously is not interested in Obama becoming president.
"Candidate drops out because of comments of his ex-preacher"... get real..
Just The Facts
DEBATE! DEBATE!! DEBATE!!!
It's time for everyone to face the truth. Barack Obama has no real chance of winning the national election in November at this time. His crushing defeat in Pennsylvania makes that fact crystal clear. His best, and only real chance of winning in November is on a ticket with Hillary Clinton as her VP.
Hillary Clinton seemed almost somber at her Pennsylvania victory speech. As if part of her was hoping Obama could have proved he had some chance of winning against the republican attack machine, and their unlimited money, and resources.
But it is absolutely essential that the democrats take back the Whitehouse in November. America, and the American people are in a very desperate condition now. And the whole World has been doing all that they can to help keep us propped up.
Hillary Clinton say's that the heat, and decisions in the Whitehouse are much tougher than the ones on the campaign trail. But I think Mr. Obama faces a test of whether he has what it takes to be a commander and chief by facing the difficult facts, and the truth before him. And by doing what is best for the American people by dropping out of the race, and offering his whole hearted assistance to Hillary Clinton to help her take back the Whitehouse for the American people, and the World.
Mr. Obama is a great speaker. And I am confident he can explain to the American people the need, and wisdom of such a personal sacrifice for them. It should be clear to everyone by now that Hillary Clinton is fighting her heart out for the American people. She has known for a long time that Mr. Obama can not win this November. You have to remember that the Clinton's have won the Whitehouse twice before. They know what it takes.
If Mr. Obama fails his test of commander and chief we can only hope that Hillary Clinton can continue her heroic fight for the American people. And that she prevails. She will need all the continual support and help we can give her. She may fight like a superhuman. But she is only human.
Sen. Hillary Clinton: "You know, more people have now voted for me than have voted for my opponent. In fact, I now have more votes than anybody has ever had in a primary contest for a nomination. And it's also clear that we've got nine more important contests to go."
Sincerely
Jacksmith... Working Class :-)
Don't Quit Obama - Stay Grounded
All this is nothing more and a smoke screen. I hope the American people are smart enough to see far beyond the trees. You can't keep a good man down. No one can be held accountable for another persons actions. Mr. Wright seems to have a hidden agenda. It is my understanding that he was invited to speak by a Hillary supporter. I will not be blinded by the smoke. Senator Obama you have my vote.
Hillary Clinton should be held accountable for her vicious deeds. No one has mentioned that as a role model for women she failed. When she made the decision to stay with Bill Clinton after being disgraced and mentally abused on National TV. Hillary chose to stay married to a man that betrayed her. No one seems to talk about that. Hard decisions are hard decisions in personal and public life. Hillary also Voted for the War. WHAT A COMMANDER IN CHIEF!!!
lol
See you at President Obama's Inauguration!
Obama '08
P.S. You really do need to see if you can break into comedy writing - this article is HILLARY-OUS! :)
Obama
How stupid are American people that you even give consideration to that reverend jerk ? How stupid are American people that you can't see what's good for the country and what's bad? Clinton put up with a philandering and totally disrespectful husband apparently deciding being president was more important than kicking him to the curb. What kind of judgement does that show other than bad? And yet some people think she'd be good in office. Yeah right!! Black people of America unite, get out and vote, and get that good man in office before the country goes further into hell in a hand basket.
To Jacksmith...Working Class
"His best, and only real chance of winning in November is on a ticket with Hillary Clinton as her VP.
Hillary Clinton seemed almost somber at her Pennsylvania victory speech. As if part of her was hoping Obama could have proved he had some chance of winning against the republican attack machine, and their unlimited money, and resources. "
Using your logic and your comments, why on Earth would hillary want Obama as a VP? According to you, he would be such a huge liability, because the "Republican Attack Machine" would just tear him apart. Wouldn't that same attack machine just question hillary's judgement for choosing him? Besides, after all of her Karl Rove type attacks, she's damaged that relationship beyond repair and they could never be running mates.
Also, the reality of the situtation is that people like you and this bonnie erbe were crying foul during Clinton's presidency. You were crying about the media focusing on matters that aren't important (who cares if the president had sex with an intern and lied about it...let's focus on his policies). However, now that you find yourself on the other side of the coin...you're completely onboard with this stupid focus on a subject that doesn't matter.
hillary has taken several pages straight from Karl Rove's play book and not one hillary support seems to mind. She's the ultimate spoiled brat...if she can't have the presidency...she's going to ensure that Obama doesn't have it either.
people need to stop talking out of thier a**. The reason being is two democratics are going against each other for the democratic election so obvious half of the democratics in the world are voting for some one who they believe is capable of winning the general election. Now when the general election comes around in november all of those democratics that had to choose between two democratics will have only one option. So let go back in time: Republicans wil win Texas, and the plain states democratics will win california illnois new york, mass., dc., and all the other blue states that they have been winning since clinton won in 1992 so people comments are outregeous
obama 08
Whatever lady
Your article sounds quite ridiculous. Why have you not written an article about the racist things Rendell said or whatever that lady who ran as VP way back when said. I also have to add, I'm sure you aren't romotely aware or care about anything which deals with race relations. I am almost inclined to believe, the closest you come to bridging a gap in race relations is walking on the same sidewalk as a minority. Could you please write about something we need to really be concerned about such as this idiot concept of having a "gas holiday" your lady, Hillary Clinton and her man, John McCain supported, when economics 101 clearly shows that's a very shortsighted and dumb solution because after we finish with this psuedo holiday, gas will be even higher than when it was enacted. let's talk about the issues.
Obama's connections
Rev Wright was Obama's confident for 20 years. Rev Wright married him, Rev Wright baptized his children, Obama consulted with Rev Wright before he ran for Peresident. He did not know his preachings of 20 years. As parents Michele and Obama allowed their children to hear the hate? Obama claims he did not know of Tony Rezko's dealings, he doesn't remember meeting Mahdi Auchi, and he didn't know William Ayers underground weatherman. So if we believe him, he has been walking around with his eyes and ears closed and that is not good for America.
Puh lease !!!
Apparently nobody remembers the fact the Rev. Wright was Bill's "spiritual advisor" when he was trying to get out of the Monica Lewinsky mess. Check the internet, people. Looks like Billary has a new best friend.....
non bi partisan?
your article is outrageously partisan towards republican in dem clothed billary clinton.
you and the clinton machine disgust me.
OBAMA IS OUR NEXT PRESIDENT
Obama Drop Out
Wright's outrageous comments are for his gain from those who will listen to them. He went over the edge and Obama severed his ties. Nuff said.
obamas chances
I fully understand the pause to be taken before casting a vote for Obama. However, his enemies are right around him . Rev. Wright , Ayers , the nation of Islam and his wife. This group has created more doubt in the minds of voters than any opponent. It is unfortunate that he bears the burden of fools he has become close to. I for one a tried and true republican geniunely like the mans persona. I want to vote for him. However, he must distance himself fron destructive people and their comments wherever possible.
Get real
Supposedly you have "covered Washington politics since God was a baby..." (which I find an offensive brag in and of itself). If that's the case, then you should realize how desperately change is needed in this country. We don't need a guy who wants to keep us in Iraq for 'god knows' how long and who knows squat about the economy. We don't need a woman who has declared to the world (despite her previous admonitions about not telegraphing U.S. intentions in hypothetical situations) that she would not hesitate to obliterate Iran (hmm, which has how many women and children living in it?) nor do we need 4-8 more years of Whitewater, TravelGate, scandalous behavior and cover-ups. We need a man who thinks things through before he pushes a red button. Lots of people seem to fault Obama for how long he took to 'disown' Wright - perhaps he wanted to get all the facts first, which he didn't have, and perhaps he has the depth of character and loyalty that gave him pause before throwing a long-term friend under the bus - that's integrity about which Wright clearly knows nothing. That's the kind of integrity I would like to see in the White House for a change instead of slash and burn of anyone who might disagree, as we have seen over and over again - and God help Bill Richardson, etc. if Hillary gets in the White House.
Drop out, my butt! Hillary is an egocentric, deceitful, manipulative, selfish, pathological liar and I hope Obama kicks her behind all over Indiana and North Carolina and beyond. My god, people, let's put someone at the helm who knows how to calmly weather a storm and sails us to much calmer seas.
"you've got a white problem?"
Comments directed to Obama from Roland S. Martin, nationally award-winning journalist and CNN contributor: http://www.cnn.com/2008/POLITICS/04/30/roland.martin/?iref=mpstoryview
“Let voters know that you will be calling the shots, not Wright. I've seen e-mails from voters who say they will not vote for Obama because of Wright. The junior senator of Illinois must challenge them directly.
Tell them flat out that Wright will not keep their homes from foreclosure.
Tell them that Wright has absolutely nothing to do with gas prices doubling under the presidency of George W. Bush.
Tell blue-collar voters that the hedge fund owners that are snapping up companies and slashing their jobs don't care about them, and will be happy to fund the campaign of McCain.
Make the case that he might be a good guy, but he's more concerned about the tax bracket of his wife (she's worth in excess of $100 million) than the middle- class voters in Ohio and Pennsylvania.
They say you've got a white problem? Tell those white rural voters that voting against their economic interests is political suicide.
What Obama has to tell those women, who are supporting Sen. Hillary Clinton in huge numbers, and will be disappointed if she's not the nominee, is that sitting at home on Election Day, or crossing the aisle and voting for McCain, virtually assures that a woman's right to choose what to do with her body will be taken from her.
Make college tuition a cornerstone of your campaign. . .There isn't a parent, aunt or uncle who isn't concerned with that issue.
The war still matters. I'm watching Lanny Davis, a big-time Clinton surrogate on "Larry King Live," challenge Obama's judgment on attending Wright's Chicago church for 20 years. Obama must re-engage the electorate and say that the judgment of Clinton and McCain has led to a war that has cost us 4,000 lives and billions of dollars.
Don't let voters forget for a second that the wrong choice was made by your opponents.”
* * * * * *
Karl Rove has to be laughing his head off at Democrats using the same strategy of fear and division against ourselves that he first used against us. We all need to do our share. Please post your support in as many of the news blogs in Indiana and NC as possible.
Indiana Newspapers: http://www.usnpl.com/innews.php
North Carolina Newspapers: http://www.usnpl.com/ncnews.php
Obamabot and proud
First off, no hater responses. McCainiacs and Hilliacs, dont mis-represent the truth. The truth is simply, Obama, Ayers, and Reverend Wright are Right! God D*** america. The the stupid, bitter, racist "typical white people" of pennsylvania voted for clinton. How disgusting, now they have more blood on their hands. They could have made Michelle Obama proud, but only proved her point that this is a "mean country". Ok, so now we need to bob and weave and do the politician thing to get these typical white people to vote for us. It will work because Obama is a smarter than these stupid small town hicks, have faith, Obama is our Savior! The chickens are coming home to roost, if they wise up, they'll stop buying guns to cling to, and save it for our reparations checks! Obama ''''''''08, Repartions Check, ''''''''09! http://www.npr.org/programs/specials/racism/0108 27.reparations.html
obama
As an older white female, Hillary could have had my support in her campaign for president. I was open minded and thought "getting two for the price of one" would be great. Instead, she ran a campaign that makes me sick. She is manipulative, insincere, and nasty. Unfortunately, I have grown to dislike her immensely.
I have become an avid Obama supporter as are all my nuclear and extended family members. He is thoughtful, intellegent and is trying to rise above politics as usual. Unfortunately, this country seems to get what it deserves. It elected Bush TWICE!!
I watched the Bill Moyers interview with Reverend Wright which was actually an intellegent discourse. These latest rants only make me wonder if Wright would rather see Hillary elected. He is incredibly self absorbed and a nut job but he is NOT running for President.
Why on earth would the person who is leading the race drop out? This article needs to be removed.
This article needs to be removed.
Obama is of mixed race.
Race issues were going to inevitably surface.
This isn't the 60's ... or 70's or 80's.... it is year 2008.
People are smarter than you give them credit for.
This election will be based on policy issues and who is the best to advance them. Considering Obama reaches accross party lines and has shown he can unite with republicans to get things passed in congress.
Voting Mcsame or Hillary would be the continuation of the stalemate we've all seen for years. Nothing get's accomplished as young american soldiers continue to die as our price of gasoline skyrockets into the heavens without affordable proper healthcare.
jillsmith - what class? ;-)
Simply Ridiculous
He leads in every aspect of the race and you wan't him to drop out. I think you should drop your career. We all know that politicians go through their ups and downs during any poll that reflects the current days events. The bottom line is he still ahead waaaaaay ahead. Hillary should drop out so Democrats can unite.
The Obamanuts grow more desperate and more incoherent every day.The writing is clearly on the wall for Egobama.His lies and backpeddling have caught up with him and them.They cheated and intimidated the Clinton supporters at all of the caucuses and have lied and debased Senator Clinton and her family 24/7 every since the beginning of this campaign.They are all so power hungery that they have lost sight of the importance of this election,if indeed they ever stopped to consider it at all.You dont get exactly what you want just by demanding it.The Democratic Party is a very large and diverse party.Many of us have been members for years and years.We have paid our dues and volunteered our time and worked to take control of the congress and the Executive branches.We care more about the party and our country than some johnny come lately Idol.Obama is,in effect,unelectable.It dosent matter if he has ten thousand super delegates.they can change their vote at any time,and will at the proper time.Our ONLY GOAL is a win in November.That is the responsiblity of the super delegates.They are NOT going to throw away this chance simply because a bunch of ignorant cry babies have the hots for their idol.This is a serious matter.We will not allow them to take over OUR party.
Bonnie Erbe
You are worse than FOX news! Ann Coulter comes to mind...
BO just go
Obama should just concede the nomination to Hillary. That way, he can at least try to become a VP. Otherwise its going to be very humiliating for him and most importantly his supporters.
An important thing to note here. Lets keep Obama aside for a second. Rev Wright also knows Obama for 20 yrs. And when Rev Wright says Obama believes everything he preaches and that he is a 'politician", that should be an eye opening insight about Obama. He is the same old washington politician. Atleast washington politicians dont use and throw their pastors, mentors according to their need and convenience.
I Respectfully Disagree
If Obama weathers this, which I believe he will, he will have proven a great deal about himself that is positive. In a game with much higher stakes than most of us will ever play he has demonstrated a degree of humanity that we don't see in many politicians when their careers are at stake. If Hillary Clinton thought having Bill hung around her neck was doing her more harm than good she'd dump him like a hot plate of Bubba Gumbo. Obama, on the other hand, knew for sure that Wright was hurting him but chose to disagree with him without disrespecting him until Wright proved he wasn't willing or psychologically capable of doing the same.
Let's face it. Wright's speech to the NAACP, while it hurt Obama by keeping the controversy alive, also had some redeeming qualities. We truly need to not only see that different doesn't mean deficient but to conduct ourselves as if we believe it. Obama was willing to give Wright the opportunity to spread that message and rightly so. When it became absolutely certain that the goodness in Wright was going to be hidden by his anger and intolerance, Obama said, "Enough!" Some say he didn't act soon enough or that he didn't act until Wright became destructive to his campaign. I believe both are untrue. I believe he waited in the hope that Wright would redeem himself even though it was hurting him because he knew that redemption and reconciliation would strengthen all of us.
I believe we need this kind of character in our politicians instead of the selfishness and opportunism we have become so accustomed to. Furthermore, if Obama goes on to become our first African-American President it will prove that we are ready to turn the corner on the devisivness that has been the hallmark of our political system and the scourge of our society. It will also send a strong signal to the world community that we are a land of equality, opportunity and hopefulness. I can't imagine any message that would go further in our goal of defeating the mindset that has spawned terrorism. Like it or not, that battle will be won in the minds of men, not on the battlefield.
Get real
every day HRCs negatives go up. Even with all the corporate medias blathering in her support.
Obama continues to lead both by his example and words, but in the polls.
Hillary is just acting the spoiler and she is a piece of work, I'll admit. But her belligerent dishonesty just doesn't play well with most people.
NO THANK YOU
If you say something enough then it becomes real? Hillary has lost. She can't win. Obama is going to be the next President. It does not take a Clinton to lift this country up. Clinton would only take this country down. She can't bring this country together because of the baggage she and he husband bring to the White House. Wake up people.
CHRISTIAN BELIEFS
Jesus taught us to love our brother in the worst of times. He taught us to see the love in our hearts to recognize that no matter how questionable another person is, he is still created by God. I see the pain on Obama's face and hear it in his words as he tries to follow Jesus's teachings and yet be forced to turn away from a pastor who has failed to follow God's plan. I do not know Pastor Wright, nor do I understand why he harbors so much hate. That is something he will have to answer to God for. I respect Obama for going the extra mile for him and hope the media will show some love in their hearts.
Erbe Article on Obama dropping out of the race
It's hard for me to fathom why Ms. Erbe would seriously suggest that Obama drop out if he doesn't win in NC by double digits. Either she is just for Hillary or she likes to make outrageous commentary to get attention. He is well ahead in delegates, which has been the standard for decades that determines the nominee, even after superdelegates were invented.
The superdelegates understand that to pick Hillary at this late date would amount to ruining the future for the sake of an uncertain present. (That is, there is no guarantee at all that a person who has unfavorable ratings among the general populace of 47--50% can beat even a weak candidate like John McCain.)
Guess that smirk on Ms. Erbe's face at the above right is either condescension toward her readers in the belief they are without judgment and are very naive or it's a sneer because she prefers Hillary, the ultimate elietist because she thinks she is royalty in the Democratic Party and tha tshe has a right to the White House.
In any event, it's hard to take Ms. Erbe's article seriously.
drop out?
Where do I start? This article is so ridiculous, I can't believe it is finding white space. Only a Hillary rabid partisan could even begin to suggest the leader in states won, popular vote, and delegate count should drop out. Obama has denounced Wright, and that is the end of it. The media keeps at it only because of the Clinton campaign's prodding of the issue. In fact, they set up the whole WRight episode over the weekend purposely. Seems the Clintons don't go down easily..but that will just make victory over them all the sweeter. Bonnie, go home with your beloved Hillary and remember to avoid the sniper fire!
The truth hurts
Obama is so gone by this point, the Democrats cannot possibly put him forward.
Bonnie Erbe - get another JOB
High School seniors are writing essays that reflect more intellectual acumen and ability for critical analysis than Ms. Erbe. If the author could think in a serious manner, beyond coffe-sipping musings, she might consider what the ramifications would be if superdelegates were ever to reverse the decision of pledged delegates.
This is perhaps one of the most simplistic commentaries that I have wasted my time to read, to date.
Obama should drop out?
Um...how can I say this diplomatically? ERBE, YOU'RE AN IDIOT!!!
Hillary and Bill are STEEPED in sleaze. McCain is spending all his time and energy attacking Obama because he knows Obama is the bigger threat--Obama has a cleaner past. Based on her past, McCain could knock Hillary out of the race in his sleep. He's hoping to go up against Hillary because he knows it'll be an easy win.
There's an old saying: "Keep your powder dry." That's exactly what McCain is doing. WAKE UP, AMERICA!!!
Okay, let's put our trust in Hillary--NOT!!!
It constantly amazes me how so many people can talk about not being able to trust Obama but have selective memory when it comes to the Clintons and their scandal-ridden lives.
One that has received absolutely NO coverage is the recent announcement that Hillary will be called to testify in November in the landmark civil fraud case against Bill Clinton in Los Angeles, where the former President is charged with defrauding a Hollywood dot com millionaire to help Hillary Clinton obtain more than $1.2 million from him for her 2000 Senate campaign.
Diggs.com reports that Los Angeles Superior Court Judge Aurelio Munoz ruled on Friday, April 25 that Hillary Clinton would not be required to testify in a sworn deposition as a material witness in the case until AFTER the November election!
Hillary Clinton may not be deposed about her role in the illegal solicitation and cover up of the largest contribution made to her Senate campaign until after the presidential election. This is the same contribution Hillary denied knowing about or receiving when Lloyd Grove of the Washington Post asked her specifically about it and her relationship with the donor, Peter Paul, in August 2000. Its the same contribution her finance director David Rosen was criminally tried for in May 2005. It's the same contribution the FEC fined her campaign for hiding from the voters in three false FEC reports by her treasurer between 2000-2006. (www.paulvclinton.com)
So, let's keep having that "selective memory" thing. What a headline we'll make in newspapers around the world: "Newly elected US President called to testify in fraud scandal case days after being elected!"
Thank You for your unbias reporting. I appreciate the fact that you looked at of the facts while doing your reporting.....LMAO. If it as bad as you claim, why is Obama picking up more super's than Hillary? It not hard to to tell that you are an Obama Hater..Hate on because he still has the lead--which would be impossible for Hillary to catch....lol
Change for Obama
Obama said he wants Change well he knows how to do it, he has changed his mind from "I can no longer denounce Rev. Wright them I could the black community or even my own Grandmother." He certainly Changed his Opinion, I guess Grandmother is next!!!! He's Out of Here, Thank Goodness!
Obama Haters
Hillary Clinton married Bill Clinton 30 years ago and stayed with him through all his infidelities, while she pretended "not to know". She had a child with Bill. So why is Obama held to a different standard. I have been in Black churches all my life. I've heard outrageous statements from pastor's and I didn't walk out and I don't hate white people.
Rev. Wright took himself out of Chicago into Obama's territory in Washington and made a complete 'jerk' out out of himself. Hillary supporters invited him to the press club meeting specifically to hurt Obama and it worked. John McCain's staff dug up the Reverend statements two month ago. McCain has a racist pastor supporting him and he accepted the support. I fail to see the difference.
Why should he quit, no one else quit because their candidacy isn't perfect
Thank You for your unbias reporting. I appreciate the fact that you looked at of the facts while doing your reporting.....LMAO. If it as bad as you claim, why is Obama picking up more super's than Hillary? It not hard to to tell that you are an Obama Hater..Hate on because he still has the lead--which would be impossible for Hillary to catch....lol
This feature
This comment feature encourages anonymous cowards to post thoughts that are usually moronic, often racist, and almost always poorly written. If you clowns have something to say, go outside and talk to a human who can talk back to you - stop hiding in your living rooms.
If he loses the traditional base in Indiana and North Carolina, I do think he should drop out for the good of the party. Let's face it, he will NEVER win a general election in a country that elects centrists. Remember even Bush campaigned as a centrist. Having Wright, Rezko, Ayers and his wife with her comments, makes him look far, far, far left. His supporters (media and in Congress) have invested so much in him that they don't want to let him go. But they need to GET OUT OF DENIAL. He can't win the general.
Forget all the drama-- consider his tax policy. Did you you notice that after the ABC debate when he said that he would raise the payroll tax on those making over 97,000? Did you also notice that Clinton cut into his base of voters making over 145, 000 in PA? First time I heard a policy from him, and problem the first time the "liberal lattes" heard it too.
Wake up
Lady, you stupid. Stop making up lies. Your real name must be Hillary, "I'll do anything to win" Lie, cheat, steal, heck she might even kill. Leave it alone. Rev. Wright has his on views, just like you and me. Obama does not share the same veiws as Wright so why keep going on with this nonsense. Lady you need to drop out of the reporting business. We don't need people like you (racist) delivering anything to the American people. So just shut up, listen and watch Obama change people like you. He's still adding superdelegates to the list baby. Does this upset you? Of course it does. If you're mom told you she hated black people does that mean you have to hate them too, does that mean you have to denounce her? No, dummy, you have a mind of your own, use it.
the nerve of her
Ms Erbe
You must think the American People are a bunch of ignorant people. Why
should a man who has done so much, worked so hard, and also overcame this very trying time in his campaign give up? Especially to someone that is not getting as much scrutiny as he is. If this does not make him a strong person by the time he is running against McCain (and he will be running against McCain) then he does not deserve the nomination. But It will make him stronger. His first strike was having the nerve to be leading a Clinton anarchy kingdom in the primaries. His second was having the balls to be leading in the popular votes, delegate votes, and the caucuses while catching up with the supers.
Please lets get this nomination over with so that there can be a dem in office in 2009
This is simply Hillaryous!
Silly!
Good time for vacation or drop out of commenting on the campaigns until the nomination actually happens. Come back when it's one of them vs. McCain.
This article jumped the shark.
What Really Matters
As of this morning:
Oil prices, $115/barrel, two soldiers died in Iraq Tuesday, Home foreclosures are at an all time high; Oil companies posted record profits (again); Regular gas in this city $3.79/gal. Health care is in crisis, jobs are being shipped out daily.
The Republican/McCain/Clinton response? Smear ads featuring Barack Obama and his former pastor.
A gas tax "holiday" which may save $20 this summer season; but may bankrupt the funds responsible for our infrastructure. A health care plan which is essentially the Bush plan. (McCain). In other words, no plan. Support of policies that have lead to the economic crisis and job losses we currently are in with China, Mexico, Colombia, and India (Clinton's NAFTA, CAFTA, China trade deals "Most Favored Nation Status"; McCain's endorsement of this plan.)
McCain's 100 year war and the not so veiled insistence that we attack Iran. Clinton's pledge to the oil sheiks of Dubai, Saudi Arabia, and United Arab Emirates that she would "obliterate Iran" with nuclear force if they were attacked.
Economy: McCain's campaign was nearly bankrupt until he "lent" himself $4 million dollars violating campaign finance laws. Clinton's "formidable" campaign, based on experience, has truly been bankrupt of money or ideas. Bills to small business owners in Ohio and Texas not being paid. Her employees' OWN health care not being paid.
Given the above issues that are facing this country, paired with the Clinton/McCain responses, or lack thereof, are THE reason the debate for the presidency keeps being focused on smear tactics and innuendo.
Neither Clinton nor McCain truly give a rat's arse about the American citizens who are truly suffering; the "blue collar" worker, the soldiers, the veterans, or anyone else. If they or their supporters truly cared, the issues would be paramount in their campaigns.
Posters on this site who routinely try to smear Obama with non issues; I've got a question for you. At the end of the day, when you've scored your various "gotcha" points of "Rezko, Wright, Ayers, Muslim, Hamas, terrorist, boogeyman", do you honestly feel better about yourself and your campaign? Are any of the above smear points going to lower the price of gas? Bring our troops home? Save your house or job? Provide health care for your family?
Or are you going to continue to support candidates like Bush/McCain/Clinton, who will tell you what you want to hear, all the while enriching themselves while selling out the country. You supporters who are so virulent, and would never support Obama under any circumstances, is Clinton sharing her moneymaking secrets ($109 million) with you? What about McCain?
No, you will vote on hot button wedge issues like before, and get screwed again. They will be laughing all the way to the bank.
If for once, you can get by your biases, (racial, sexual, philosophical or other), and vote for your best interests, I'm confident that you will choose Obama.
Bottom line: do you want to do better the next four years than you have the last seven? The last 15? The last 20?
Look at the source
The author's past comments show a clear pattern of bias against Obama. Just look at the negative headlines in her past articles regarding the election. Her titles focus on Obama shortcomings vis a vis McCain or Clinton, who have more favorable treatment
Why does Pro-Hillary = Anti-Obama
If Hillary is such a great candidate, enumerate the reasons why--and don't just put together a straw-man attack on Obama. I am for Obama because of what he offers: a clear agenda to put America back on the right track and the leadership to do it. I've read through his plans and he doesn't "just give speeches."
Please try to post something better than "there are too many unanswered questions about Rev. Wright." Please offer something better than picking the fringe element of his support and making that the basis of his character and career. There are few differences between Clinton and Obama's policies. The difference is that Obama has the ability to lead the country in getting the policies enacted.
If you really want to convert people to Hillary Clinton's camp, try to offer some positives about her. The true leader is someone who succeeds by offering solutions. The pretend leader is someone who gets ahead by tearing their competition down. Honestly ask which campaign is doing which.
Time for Repubs to step up
If the momentum and the polls are really true, and Hillary is showing herself to be a threat to the 'old man', then the McCainisters need to vote for Obama in the primaries. Repub party volunteers are already suggesting this change of course here in Indiana.
The Repubs need to vote for Obama as, according to Erbe, he's the weaker candidate. So step up Repubs, vote for Obama and help McCain!!!
LOL--I love when Obamatrons call things "silly seaon". It's just a "distraction" right "folks"? Your guy has no character no veracity and hopefully the good people of Indiana and NC will say just that when they go to the polls. Obama didn't have the courage to stand up to Wright for 20 years. And it's about the American public, my fellow democrats, stood up to Obama. We don't elect people president who sit idly by for hate speech and america bashing. Not gonna happen.
Rubbish
This is a very poorly written piece. The bias in it is shameless. Reading the Bonnie Erbes profile, God must have been a baby with a bad bias. How can one be so seasoned a writer yet so myopic in analysis.
He Shall Overcome
Obama has been forced to run the gauntlet the past two weeks but I am confident that if he sticks to his core message, he will get the nomination and win the presidency. Obama is a good man with a good message. He is a candidate for the future. I take offense that some of the posts above portray him as having no character or veracity. I don't know the man personally but from what I can perceive he's a man who loves this country deeply and is grateful for the opportunities he has been given. He came from nothing but he has not forgotten his humble roots (such kinds of people have been our best presidents). I saw Obama speak once when he came to my state (KY) and I could tell in his responses that he was speaking from the heart on the issues -- there was not a note of contrivance in his voice. Everyone who runs for president has ambition but I believe Obama's ambition is tempered by a deep sense of humility and dedication to break down the political barriers that have stifled real progress in this country.
Ignorant
Everyone has there past., not everyone can be perfect, and what do you expect there politicians. Presidents are human too so nobody has the right to criticize especially if your not voting. just the idea that a black man and a woman is able to run for presidency is so wonderful, this country has come a long way. We can only hope for the best.
Obama and Wright
I wonder how much the preacher made from the Hillary campaign for his speeches?
Obama Should Drop Out?
Bonnie Erbe, has no credibility. She's a known Obama hater. She supports Hillary simply because she's a woman. The thought of a black man in the White House scares the hell out of her. . . that really comes across in her opinion pieces.
Obama the Political Animal
This is an excellent piece. Indeed Wright has put back American racial politics 50 years. I would say the Obama campaign has done the same, with its shameless race-baiting following Hillary Clinton's win in New Hampshire. What could have been going through their minds? The Obama campaign had every interest in playing down race, and could conceivably do so easily with its bi-racial candidate. But no, the temptation was too great to make a blow-out win in South Carolina and they went for it, and since then each time Obama is down, he pulls the race card again in one way or another. That and skillfully and methodically trying to push up Clinton's negatives by reference to her so-called "divisiveness" (funny, we're not seeing that now, least not from her), and more obscene sexist talk by his supporters. But people are now waking up, and once they realize what Clinton stands for, they go to her and don't look back.
As for Wright, it's interesting that most discussion has been focused on the pastor. Few are asking Obama why he chose that church, why it was a politically calculated move. Or how he won his State and US Senate races by skillfully pushing people off the ballots, again the Political Animal. Perhaps the reality doesn't sync with his "new politics", and means the Right Wing Attack Machine will have many more issues to attack him with if the Democrats make the supreme error of giving him the nod.
Time for Obama to drop out
I agree 100% that if Barack Obama fails to win NC--which Dem electorate is 40% black--by double digits, the supers will start to be concerned.
If Obama loses NC AND Indiana--it't time to realize that Obama has peaked and is on the decline.
If Obama loses every remaining primary (e.g., Ky, where Clinton leads by 36%, W.Va., where Clinon leads by 26%, Puerto Rico, where Clinton leads by 10%...), then its time for Obama to quit.
This is no Hillary fantasy. Obama is so wounded that after ducking debates in INd. and NC, Obama has agreed to submit to a full hour of grilling by Tim Russert on Meet the Press Sunday (which is very risky 2 days before the May 6 primaries). Obama would not be doing this unless he was in real trouble.
Response to "Wake UP"
Dear "Wake UP":
This may come as a shock to you, but "Lady, you stupid" is not a terribly convincing argument outside of, perhaps, Trinity Bapist Church in Chicago, or a rundown bait or barber shop in the middle of uneducated Nowherem USA.
ah, the pundits-is there anything they know?
I am reminded of Cokie Roberts after the Monica revelation declaring that Clinton would be out of the White House in 72 hours. Then, a flurry of agreement from pundits ululating for Bill Clinton's head. But the voters were not interested in what the beltway beltway denizens fretted about; they had other ideas.
Well said!
Congratulations to US News - I believe you're the first in the mainstream news to say Obama should get out of the race. He is unelectable and not ready to be president. Democrats need to wake up and realize this. Thank you for saying it!
so stupid it is incredible!
Haven't you ever had a "close" friend or confidant betray your trust or done something so incredible you stopped your friendship after first giving them the benefit of the doubt and struggling with the decision? This was a pastor! Look what Bill did to Hillary!! He shoved a cigar into a young woman's private parts. He left his tell-tale bodily fluids on her blue dress. Yet Hillary never disowned him. The Clintons have no shame and will lie right to the American public, probably because of their bizarre personal relationship.
I don't know what type of relationship you have with your pastor, priest or rabbi, but come on. The bitter remark was wrong? Are you kidding me? Many of us are bitter, angry and are turn off by Washington insiders. Many of us are bitter about jobs leaving our communities, that pensions have been decimated while CEOs get a golden parachute. Many do cling to religion, like a life raft. We think of the story of Jobe and hope that these tough times will pass.
You have NOTHING on Obama other than guilt by association. Hillary just flat out lies. She says she helped bring peace to Northern Ireland? She dodged bullets over Bosnia? Bill lies and lied to the entire nation while wagging his fin
silly
This is what they call silly season. Lemme guess, you are a Hillraiser?
Apr 30, 2008 12:00:06 PM [permalink] [report comment]