Obama disavows Rev. Wright
By Joseph P. Williams, Globe Staff
Senator Barack Obama, saying that he'd had enough, forcefully repudiated his former pastor today and declared that racially charged remarks made by the Rev. Jeremiah A. Wright Jr. contradict "all that I stand for."
Obama said he had tried to give Wright "the benefit of the doubt," but decided to disavow Wright after the minister's nationally televised appearance on Monday reignited a lingering controversy on the eve of two crucial Democratic presidential primaries.
The Illinois senator said that Wright's appearance, including his dismissal of Obama's attempts to defuse the controversy as political posturing, "was a show of disrespect to me" and "an insult to what we've been trying to do in this campaign."
Wright, he added, is no longer "the man I met 20 years ago."
"When I say I found his comments appalling, I mean it," Obama said at a news conference in Winston-Salem, N.C. "Anybody who has worked with me, who knows my life, who read my books, who have seen what this campaign is about will understand it is completely opposed to what I stand for and where I want to take this country."
The condemnation was a dramatic shift for Obama, who had tried to navigate a personal and political minefield: maintaining a relationship to the minister who brought him to Christianity, performed his wedding, and baptized his two daughters, while distancing himself from Wright's most incendiary sermons and trying to quell a controversy that threatened to undermine Obama's campaign's focus on racial unity.
Answering questions submitted by reporters on Monday, Wright praised Nation of Islam leader Louis Farrakhan as "one of the most important voices in the 20th and 21st century," and said it's possible that the US government created the AIDS virus and introduced it into the black community. He also said he's become a victim of "unfair accusations taken from sound bites" which has developed into an "attack on the black church launched by people who know nothing about the African-American religious tradition."
William Galston of the Brookings Institution, a nonpartisan Washington think tank, said Obama had to disavow Wright, the former pastor of Trinity United Church of Christ, but added that the controversy has already taken a toll on Obama's campaign. Galston said the most recent polling data shows that Obama's substantial lead over Hillary Clinton, his Democratic rival, is narrowing in North Carolina and that Clinton is gaining ground in a neck-and-neck race in Indiana.
"I would be surprised if [Obama's statements] made it go away. It's certainly helpful," he said. "But I think that Senator Obama will be lucky if this dies down before people are voting in the primaries" on Tuesday.
The timing is difficult for Obama, the first African American with a legitimate shot at winning the presidency. Walking a fine line between his heritage and his attempt to run a racially transcendent campaign, Obama has struggled to win over white, working-class voters -- the key, analysts say, to defeating Clinton and John McCain, the presumptive Republican nominee, in the fall campaign -- and the Wright controversy could alienate those voters further.
Obama has been grappling with the controversy since early March, when videos of Wright's thundering sermons condemning the nation for past injustices began showing up on the Internet. Obama initially downplayed the controversy, but eventually delivered a widely-praised speech March 18 in Philadelphia on race -- perhaps the most significant address of his candidacy.
In it, Obama said both blacks and whites have legitimate race-based grievances, but none are blameless when it comes to prolonging racial tensions. However, he took a hate-the-sin, love-the-sinner stance with Wright: he rejected his inflammatory rhetoric but praised his work with the downtrodden and compared him to family.
''I can no more disown [Wright] than I can disown my white grandmother,'' who loved and sacrificed for him but feared black men and "more than once has uttered racial or ethnic stereotypes that made me cringe,'' Obama said.
After keeping a low profile while the controversy erupted, Wright broke his silence with a series of high-profile appearances to defend himself. He followed a lengthy interview Friday on the PBS news program "Bill Moyers Journal" with speeches before the NAACP in Detroit on Sunday and the National Press Club in Washington on Monday.
Though Wright's speeches called for tolerance and sought to explain the black church tradition, his defiant question-and-answer session Monday made national headlines and drew Obama's ire.
Forceful, sarcastic, and at times flippant, Wright generally stood by the remarks and sermons critics say are inflammatory -- including declarations that the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks were retaliation for US policies overseas and a thundering call of "God damn America" made from the pulpit.
That remark, from April 2003, is the centerpiece of a Republican attack ad that is to air in North Carolina.
At his press conference today, Obama said he was aware of Wright's appearance at the Press Club on Monday, but did not see a videotape of it until this morning.
Using his harshest language yet, Obama called Wright's remarks "divisive and destructive" and warned that they "end up giving comfort to those who prey on hate" and do a disservice to the black church.
"They certainly don’t portray accurately my values and beliefs. And if Reverend Wright thinks that’s political posturing, as he put it, then he doesn’t know me very well," Obama said. "And based on his remarks yesterday, well, I may not know him as well as I thought, either."
Noting that he's already denounced his most controversial sermons, "I gave [Wright] the benefit of the doubt in my speech in Philadelphia, explaining that he has done enormous good in the church," Obama said.
But when Wright stands behind "such ridiculous propositions" as he did on Monday, "then there are no excuses," said Obama, disputing media descriptions of Wright as his spiritual mentor.
"They offend me, they rightly offend all Americans. And they should be denounced," he said.
There was no immediate response from Wright. Reached today, the Rev. Joan Harrell, Trinity United's minister of communication, said the church "does not have a comment at this time."
Obama said the matter has been a distraction from "critical issues like energy, and health care, and education, and the war on terrorism" and obscures his message of national unity. That Wright would decide "to command the stage for three or four consecutive days" at this point in the campaign, he said, "not only makes me angry, but also saddened."
At Obama's first campaign event after the news conference, a packed rally in small-town Hickory, N.C., several voters said they didn't know or didn't care what Wright had said.
"They're two different people saying two different things. The TV has just run this into the ground,'' said Jim Yarrow, a 64-year-told retired white man from nearby Bethlehem.
Avery Graham, a 32-year-old African American restaurant owner, added, "Everybody's pastor says stuff sometimes that's kind of fiery. It's all politics -- if you don't like Obama, you're going to look at this critically. If you like Obama, as we do,'' he added, gesturing to his wife, 31-year-old Chanika Graham, "you're going to look past it."
Obama, himself, sounded much like a preacher himself -- with voters shouting back affirmations and cheers of approval in response to his remarks in which he barely mentioned the Wright flap.
Critics say, "he's not wearing a flag pin right now,'' or "his former pastor said some crazy stuff,'' Obama told the crowd.
"You want to know who I am,'' Obama added softly, then retold his personal story of being raised by a single mother and his grandparents, then working his way to become a lawyer and senator.
"In no other country is my story even possible,'' Obama said.
I'm speechless.
Utterly speechless. It takes some courage to have the chutzpah to come out so strongly against your mentor. Wright has done nothing but cause pain to Obama and deserves to be disavowed.
I am truly proud to be an Obama supporter today. This shows that he is in touch with reality, that he understands where our country needs to move to heal the divisions of the past. I look forward to Obama's swearing in as our next President.
I respect and appreciate your stand! May God Bless You!
He should have done this a month ago. Once again there is no substance to this guy. He is NOT electable. If the party wants to win the white house in Nov they better get on board with this fact. He is mortally wounded with the white and independent vote.
About time. Wright is exhibiting signs of early dementia. Best to try and salvage the campaign and disassociate from inflammatory remarks meant to further divide race relations. Obama, you finally have chutzpah!!!!
Political convenience....for 20 years he sat under this preaching and only felt the need to disavow it now?
It also shows that Obama has realized that the longer he remained connected to Wright the more damage it was doing his campaign. It's still politics, and Obama's only political move was to further distance himself as Wright continued to make things worse for him.
OK, but can I still get a Mule? It would be pretty cool to be riding around on a Mule.
wow. what a bunch of bull. "he is not the same man I met 20 years ago"? i wonder if he is the same man he was 1 year ago before...
Obama's Sister Souljah moment.
OH PLEASE!!! You people are a bunch of sheep! This pastor is cramping his style and affecting his chances of becoming president. You think he has NEVER heard the things this vile pastor has been saying over the past 20 years? You think that the pastor is just NOW starting to talk this way? He has already called the guy his MENTOR! Just because Obama is good at giving speeches, does not mean that this guy should be the President. He hasn't mapped out any of the things he has promised! He is a pied piper.....leading all the sheep away with his pretend promises and eloquent speeches. Just look at the mess we're in with our State Pied Piper (Deval Patrick). What has he brought us? Hopefully "Speechless" stays away from the polls on election day.
Too little, too late. You do not befriend the type of person Rev. Wright is and strengthen that bond over the course of 20 years, including at your own wedding, the baptism of your children and your events in local politics without agreeing with what is being offered. Why is he only outraged by these comments now that he is in the national arena? If my religious leader held beliefs that "outraged" and "saddened" me, I would have found a new leader. long ago...
Obama harbors many of the same feelings...he just wants to have them from the biggest office in the world... If this man gets the Democratic nomination, it will be a sad day in the USA.
Osama is HISTORY. Hillary is more of a man than him.
Obama embodies honesty and humanity that is absent in the current administration, how refreshing!
I think Obama is the most honest and outstanding individual that we have ever had run for President. He IS class. He handles situations in a professional, caring manner and does not sidestep issues. If Obama does NOT win, it is simply because Americans cannot handle intelligent, articulate honest people.
It's about time; Rev. Wright is a joke and he gained way too much attention. He tried to make the Black Race, (well lets just say), take a step back; like 40-60 Years. The bottom line, he's an embarrassment to the black race. This was not a good thing to say like, well he is addressing a social issue and got everyone to talk about it. Well there is a difference; he angered me when I think of this racist moron.
I support Obama, and did some work for him in New England, but the last couple of weeks I have to admit I was waffling towards McCain because it seemed like he could not close the deal and to me that's a problem. Closing this deal/issue with this Rev is a step forward. Good Luck!
So now he has been given no choice but to distance himself from Wright??
Hello there is no way his circle didnt watch what Wright did and said in the last 3 days and didnt inform him of it! Cmon who beleives that crap
BO did today exactly what all said he would do and claim to dis own Wright just like he dis invited him from his running announcement (but kept him in the basement)
Wright admitted that BO says what he has to as a politician
He never heard the remarks by Wright in 20 yrs of service
Now he says he never heard about the latest antics until now BS
Any one who thinks any of BOS words are true is an idiot
BO can never be beleived again after all of his swishing around with Wright Ayers Louis F and all the rest of his team
He is probably on the phone with Wright at this moment-
What is he supposed to do? Support the comment....?
Not enough, too late. The damage has been done. Obama is now on the ropes he can't hold onto the Reagan Democrats which is why Hillary beats McCain in the latest AP Poll by 9 points and Obama is dead even. Clinton will win Indiana by 10 points and she'll close the gap dramaticly in NC with today's endorsement by the NC Governor.
It is not "courageous" to disavow Wright now. Obama is only disavowing Wright because his campaign is being destroyed by him. America is seeing what a racist maniac Obama's closest spirtual advisor really is. It is too late to disavow his Hitlarian mentor. Twenty years and he is only disavowing him now? Give me a break. Kiss your presidential run goodbye. In your next life try choosing better friends and mentors who aren't racists or domestic terrorists.
About 20 years too late...
Haha, this makes me laugh.
I am truly proud that I am not an Obama supporter.
This whole affair is the same old politics that Obama says he is against.
Convenient timing for these words from Obama. The American people finally have a glimpse at the substance behind the speeches and they don't like it. A left wing senator will not bring unity to this country. The Super Delegates will have the last word and Hillary and McCain will fight it out. Whoever wins, there will still be a Democrat in the White House in 2009 but at least they won't be as Liberal as Obama.
Obama is being untruthful. He followed Wright for 20 years and know it is "covenient" not to be his buddy anymore
Hallelujah! I truly believe this is not the man that Obama met 20 years ago. I just hope and pray that we can now move on to the real issues facing us.
Obama did the, excuse the pun, "Right Thing" by disavowing Rev. Wright more strongly today and although I was never a fan of Obama's I admire the guts it took for him to do what he did today.
That being said, unfortunately at the same time he has just lost support of many of the blacks voters. I thought he had a lock on NC and possibly Indiana, now I think Billary is going to take both and make more a mess of this election.
Already Al Sharpton is making comments critical of Obama and it's just a matter of time before Obama's accused in the black community of being an "Uncle Tom".
Some of you are really ignorant and clearly have no desire to learn anything about the black community. Obama gave him the benefit of the doubt a month ago, but by going to the National Press Club yesterday and ranting and raving, he showed immense dissrepsect to Obama and the campaign. If you watch the video, its clear Obama has been immensley saddened by this. Last time I checked, Wright isnt running for President, but some people just can't let the story go.
There is no question that many of Wright's stands deserve to be condemned.
His statement "The chickens have come home to roost" after 911 seems to have upset people the most. As tragic as 911 was, Wright has a point. The violence the US has inflicted around the world (directly or by proxy) has returned to us. His stand is completely unpatriotic, but highly relevent. Some things you just can't say...
What a sad state of affairs the Democratic party is in.
I'm not sure if this isn't too little too late. Ever since Wright appeared on the scene I've become uncomfortable with the thought of Obama as president because of his relationship to Wright and Wright's relationship to Farrakhan. These relationships go way back. Why does it only bother Obama now when it affects his chance of being nominated?
And we are fretting about the anti-american clerics in Middle-East when we have our own homegrown pastor Wright !
I'm not sure if this isn't too little too late. Ever since Wright appeared on the scene I've become uncomfortable with the thought of Obama as president because of his relationship to Wright and Wright's relationship to Farrakhan. These relationships go way back. Why does it only bother Obama now when it affects his chance of being nominated?
I won't vote for him
Too little, too late. Obama should have done this months ago when Wright's daughter's magazine gave Farrakhan that award.
Re : comment his "MENTOR" made regarding JF Kennedy's moving QUOTE
" Ask not what your country can do for you... Ask what you can do for your country"
Rev. Wright.... Kennedy's pronounciation of the word ASK is not spelled any differently in the dictionary ... look it up.. it's there... .....it is just an example of the different accents that make up this great Country..same words, same meanings, just different pronunciations. Surely you must know that!!!
Just another ridiculous comment made by a ridiculous man.
If John McCain or Hillary Clinton had a "mentor" for 20 years who came out babbling racist crap similar to Rev. Wright, everyone on this board, myself included would be not only demanding that they distance themselves from that person, but that they also resign immediately for even thinking about dealing with someone like that. As annoyed as people are, Obama is still getting a pass.
"Obama embodies honesty and humanity that is absent in the current administration, how refreshing!"
Are you serious?! This is a purely political decision. He's know Wright for 20 years and only now, because his bombastic "sermons" are being heard by white voters too, Obama decides Wright is not the man he thought he knew?
Good for Obama! He tells it the way it is and the way he feels...which is something Hillary won't (can't) do!! I believe he is the only honest Democratic candidate out there!!! You cannot believe a word that comes out of Hillary's mouth. Anyone who thinks Hillary is electable, put down the pipe. She is the most despised Democratic candidate we have ever had, at least during my lifetime. I am life long Democrat. She talks AT everyone not with anyone and she looks like a dictator in training. Obama in 08!!
Good for Obama! He tells it the way it is and the way he feels...which is something Hillary won't (can't) do!! I believe he is the only honest Democratic candidate out there!!! You cannot believe a word that comes out of Hillary's mouth. Anyone who thinks Hillary is electable, put down the pipe. She is the most despised Democratic candidate we have ever had, at least during my lifetime. I am life long Democrat. She talks AT everyone not with anyone and she looks like a dictator in training. Obama in 08!!
Could someone please explain to me how Rev. Wright has any bearing on my life? Healthcare, poverty, war, corporate coruption, environmental degredation . . . What is it that we should be talking about again .. . . ?
Why is there so much guilt by association? You all blast Obama for Wright, yet so many of you clearly know little about the relationship. Obama never said these things you find so outrageous, why do you blame him? How about McCain's pastor Hagee, or Clinton's many dubious relationships? Ask yourselves why you are really so angry...
I have to agree with MAS. Obama can not stand on the pulpit & expect us to believe that he has never heard this type of ranting from rev Wright in the 20+ years that he has been a follower & "Close personal Friend". I don't fault Wright for his beliefs, knowing the times for which he grew up & what he must hav edealt with, including during his tenure in the service. I believe that as an American, he has the constitutional right to say what he wants & believes, especially if he thinks he is saying it under the auspice of his religious beliefs. Obama has the right to be a member of the church he chooses & follow it's leader. We have the right to be offended by the Reverends remarks, & should question Obama's denials here-to-fore. It's obvious that Obama is only outraged & saddened by the reverends remarks since being in the national spotlight. His wife has allured to those same beliefs, & I am worried about what is actually in her heart. I think there is some deep resentment toward America, not that I blame her, but I don't want that type of resentment associated with the White House
This is what is known as a win-win-win situation:
Win #1 -- plenty of press showing Obama as the good guy he proposes to be. The upside for Obama is that no focus is on his platform (does it exist?).
Win #2 -- Wright gains access to the grand stage that he so desires. The upside for Wright is that he has has now proven himself, to himself and to his flock, that he is a man of great importance.
Win #3 -- The voters enjoy the choreography. The upside for us is that we can see right through the good cop/bad cop scenario -- and chose to acknowledge just how much of a ride we may have been taken for.
Utterly absurd that this rev. wright stuff has become such an issue. Religous fervor is the ruination of the world! Find me a candidate who says he/she believes in PEOPLE and I'll cast my vote for that person.
Obama is trash and only running because of the racecard, just as Hilary wants to be the first woman . . . McCain is the only real candidate in the race.
You don't suppose that Wright's recent "high-profile" appearances might have been staged to give Obama an opportunity to more forcefully distance himself from the positions articulated by his former pastor? Obama's first attempt, while thoughtful and eloquent, didn't go far enough in the minds of many to disavow Wright. That has continued to plague Obama in some of the larger states and, as such, has helped Clinton stay in the race. Wright was big news a few months ago, why is he all of a sudden showing up in interviews now?
You can make a case that either campaign some how arranged to get Wright back in the news however it'll be interesting to see how different (forceful) Obama addresses the issue this time...making the putt after you've already seen the line is always easier...
Wow, allot of Clinton Supporters. I was reading the above comments and I couldn't help noting; well of course is disavowing Wright now, I think BO on a slippery slope being a Black Guy anyway. Yes, I'm a white guy but I'm not naive to think we don't have some racism in this country. I can't stand Rev Wright. He is an embarrassment as a human being and to his position. I also do not want Clinton in office as well. I mean really; out of 350 Million people we still have the two families in the past 16 years running this country. Are we that dumb? Let's get someone in who is fresh with new ideas. Maybe we can start solving some problems in this country.
The HRC-monsters are at it again. They can't stand positive thinking. It's why they froth at the mouth for HRC's attacks and bitterness.
I can't wait for this to be over. My parents generation just doesn't get it anymore. They're all out of touch with where we want the country to go. The Boomers' time is up.
I think Obama is the most honest and outstanding individual that we have ever had run for President. He IS class. He handles situations in a professional, caring manner and does not sidestep issues. If Obama does NOT win, it is simply because Americans cannot handle intelligent, articulate honest people.
Democrats are always talk. Obama has been a junior senator for less than 1 term and that whole time he has been running for president. Hillary Clinton... Whitewater. Foster. corruption. Do your really want it to be Bush Clinton Clinton Bush Bush Clinton? Obama is running on the same campaign as George W. Bush ran on... he is no different. Is Deval Patrick who ran as a political outsider any different? Wake up. Learn about the events and facts of history instead of pretty speeches.
Hagee is not McCain's pastor get the facts right. He is just a clergy man who endorsed McCain whom McCain disavowed. The Bible says I will give you pastors to feed you knowledge and understanding. I am an Obama supporter and appreciated his staying with his pastor although they had a fundamental agreement. But now Rev. Wright has done Obama and the community no favors. It seems it's all about him. He should have just faded away.
You'd think after watching Deval accomplish absolutely nothing in this state that no one would even consider voting for Obama, who is running a campaign using the Deval Patrick "make a bunch of promises with no plans to how to make those changes, and grab a catch phrase or two to try and make voters feel like this candidate is looking out for me".
Barack should have said this a month ago, when it first happened. It took him this long to figure out this guy was a nut job? Ridiculous!!
Whenever I hear "Yes we can", it sounded so familiar, and at first I thought it was becaues he was riding on his good friend Deval's "together we can". Then it hit me while watching tv with my toddler nephew. When Bob the Builder says "can we build it", all his friends say "yes we can".
Do we really want to elect another candidate with little experience, and that quotes a kids show?
the only good thing that would come out of Barack winning the Presidency is that Deval would leave our "wonderful" state as soon as some ridiculous job was created for him in Washington.
My question to obama supporters is, do you really think he would have distanced himself from this guy if this was never brought up? It was not until some tapes about this Rev. Wright came out that Obama felt the need to now distance himself from this guy. Obama clearly feels that what Rev. Wright says is wrong and what he says is not what Obama believes in. If that was the case, why did it take until this election for Obama to cut ties with him? Becuase he knew it was in his best policitcal interest to do so. Anyone who thinks otherwise is blind. Obama followed his church for over 20 years, and to think that he had no clue about any of his pastor and mentor's beliefs is insane.
Obama is a politican like everyone else and does what is in his best interst.
Wright has just exposed himself as a selfish publicity whore. Now Obama can distance himself from this mess without being disloyal. Since when do we hold people responsible for the political views of their former friends?
This is too much to take. Are we going to hold candidates responsible for everything everyone they have ever known has said, thought, or done? Obama has now totally disowned him, let's get onto the real issues. When will republicans disavow the garbage Coulter, Limbaugh and Hannity espouse on a daily basis We desparately need Obama to win this election.
Obama demonstrates the unique ability to say absolutely nothing in a very eloquent and motivating manner. He, like his mentor and pastor, tailor their styles to the audience that is listening. You didn't hear the crazy and braggadocious manner in the Wright interview on PBS. You saw the real Wright when he was talking to whom he considers "his people" at the NAACP meeting and again the next day when most of the same showed up at the NPC. Obama has a long and storied relationship with his "mentor" which defies his claim that he has never heard Wright's rantings. Poppycock!!!
Mentor is Obama's own description of his relationship with Rev. Wright. A mentor is a trusted counselor and teacher. Wright has made clear his views on our government and race relations. Are we really exptected to believe that Wright never brought these issues up in front of his mentee over their 20 year relationship? Are we truly expected to believe Obama never heard another church member relate the fanatical rantings of the wrong Rev. Wright on the AIDS virus conspiracy, 911, etc.?
Obama has been running on his judgement for the past two years. Only he had the judgement to oppose the Iraq war from the beginning, he says. Well, given his mentor's leanings, it's no great leap to understand where his judgement on that issue arose from. He got lucky! He happened to be a state senator whose constituency was opposed to the war so he was opposed to it. That is what politicians do. Obama just happened to get lucky on that one. Had Bush not lied us all into war, including lying to the congress, Colin Powell and the United Nations, Obama would not even be in this race. It wasn't judgement, it was luck. Obama has shown his judgement , or lack thereof, in selecting his mentor.
Most of the comments against Wright miss what he is doing. He is defending the black church -- not the black race and not Obama. Does he come off as having an inflated ego? Yes, but if you have ever gone to a black church, you'll notice that most black preachers appear to have big egos. That is part of the ethos of black church culture and it is generally tolerated. Wright is not an evil or demented person. He is trying to defend an institution which has single-handedly saved an oppressed people. It is not fair to condemn what is not sympathetically understood. Does Obama want Wright to take a low profile so that this amped up issue goes away? Of course. But Wright thinks that this is ultimately an opportunity to defend where his allegiances lie - in the church (not fundamentally in Obama).
"As imperfect as he may be, he has been like family to me," Obama said last month. "He contains within him the contradictions -- the good and the bad -- of the community that he has served diligently for so many years. I can no more disown him than I can disown the black community."
I find it hard to believe that Obama has "seen the light" about Wright's speeches and now decided to speak out about them, especically when Rove gave Obama advice on how to beat HRC for the nomination this morning, including distancing himself from Wrights comments. Obama is full of it. All ive heard from him are quotes/speeches about the need for change to a new kind of government and politics, etc, etc. Thats all it is, speeches, what exactly has he done other than talk? He's a great speech giver, but he is not fit to become the leader of the USA... if that happens, the country will be worse off then it already is.
McCain '08
The people who are being allowed to skate here is the NAACP. What the hell are they thinking about, giving this guy a forum? There's a chance to get the first African American elected and they let this nut case address 10,000 people after he's already caused problems? It makes you wonder . . .
Hey Ted,
The problem in MA isn't the governor. The problem is Beacon Hill cronies. Yet we keep voting them in time and again (Di Masi). The Governor in this state is pretty powerless.
Oh, and the police union. Down with the flag men.
McCain HAS NOT distanced himself from Hagee. McCain is also good friends with evangelist racists over at Liberty University and the 500 Club.
Where's the outrage there? Oh, right, when a black man denounces persistent inequality in the United States, he's a plotting, raving lunatic. When a white preacher spews homophobia and xenophobia, well, he's still a Man of God.
hypocrisy at its finest.
Each and every one of us have associates, family or friends that have done or said things that we would not do or say, and that we find offensive. We sometimes make that known to the offender in private. Still, there may be parts of their personality that we abide. And, we continue to associate with them. Obama is no different. The man is as human as you and I, and has a lot more morals than many of you or I.
For his sack, I too am glad that he finally admonished Rev. Wright because it seems that Wright is a selfish church leaded who has finally found the stage he has been seeking. Evidently the church didn't provide a big enough stage. The sad thing is though, we are providing the audience he also has been seeking.
Wright is a man with some wise ideas, but foolish applications, and he is not running for president. Why not let his foolish actions fall on deaf ears, and blind eyes.
Obama still appears to be the best of the 3 candidates to help bring peace to the world. And that above all is what we need most.
I don't believe Obama, his pastor couldn't be changed just yesterday. And I noticed that now he's "former pastor". It can be just Obama's political move to get the office and then to show to American people what he can do to "chicken". His pastor knows that Obama actually supports him and Louis Farrakhan and he could just smile as he did on all his latest interviews. I strongly believe that Obama is extremely left to majority of people and he is very close to extremists and people who hate country, which gave them freedom.
You are no Patriot Obama! You were in Wright's church for 20 years and now you are shocked about how much he hates America. When asked in the Pennsylvania debate about your patriotism you gave some lame excuse about it being what is on the inside that counts. Perhaps, but lets look at the outside. You refuse to wear the American flag or cover your heart when the national anthem is played. Your wife is just now proud of her country and your pal William Ayers wants to plant more bombs. You do hate America look with disdain on the unfortunate people who cling to God and guns. Your a smart guy Obama but so is the average American.
It is a real shame that we Americans can not form our opinion of people according to how they treat us and others. I am learning from this that too many people it does not matter how you have acted, what you have said, what you have done, or what you have achieved----what really matters to many, is what others say in their presence-how utterly insane! Perhaps if more of us were judged by what our associates think and say, we would view this situation with some sort of intelligence. Barack Obama brings dignity, compassion, honesty, and an open mind into the political scene. Are we just not ready for truth or do we actually enjoy being blindly led?
If I went to a church and the minister made prejudicial, radical comments during his sermon I would recognize them for what they were and no longer attend that church. If I listened to his prejudicial, radical remarks and didn't get outraged, it indicates I endorse what he says. Its that simple.
Its too late for Mr. Obama to be outraged and saddened with Reverend Wright's obvious prejudice. I think most voters will agree with me.
Democrats must get a clue and force Hillary into the nomination... otherwise they will have NO chance....
This speech by Rev. Wright almost looks like he's trying to sink Obama's campaign. I find it hard to believe that he had no idea what effect saying those things in a public forum would have on Obama's public image.
I wonder if everyone who commented on this story have ever bothered to listen to the whole speech. Most people I have talked to have not. Why are we as americans so opposed to talk about the past mistakes that we have made in our international policies. It is importent that we reflect back on our mistakes so we don't continually repeat them. Are we responsible for the 911 attacks? Of course not. Are we responsible for some of the historical events that have created many in the middle east to hate us? Of course we are. Wake up america it's ok to study and reflect on history.
This is sad..Obama should have waited for eight years to go by, get some seasoning and some visibility. He is now probably lost as presidential material forever for the Democrats....remember Gary Hart, Ted Kennedy.
This whole Wright foolishness (and he IS a bonafide crackpot) is such a gift to Hillary that I wonder sometimes is perhaps James Carville is sponsoring Wright's "Book Tour"!!
Wonder if we will ever solve Social Security, medical care, Iraq, terrorism, fuel independence, education, etc by focusing on such a non entity as Reverend Wright....
Correct me if anything is incorrect.
1. The Preacher hated on white folks.
2. Obama's mama is white.
Now that being said. Why wasnt Obama angry from day one? Does Obama hate his white mama?
When was the last time a Rebublican was held accountable for Pat Robertson's comments? Why is Hillary's many sorrid associacions - especially those from Whitewater - not relevent if Mr. Wright's comments are?
Is the GOP condeming the white church leaders who claimed it was homosexuality and women's rights that brought 9/11 upon us, and that McCain is enjoying their support? No?
What about Catholics? Should we believe all of them are pedofiles because some of their priests were?
Now, I could go on for a long time about former and current politicians' relationships and the complete lack of outrage by comparison, but I'm not writing an op-ed here. The fact is the Wright story, while relevant, has been overblown, and continues to be by the same people who never want a non-white person in the whitehouse. The loudest voices are the same ones who keep trying to say Obama is a Muslim Terrorist.
If we get Clinton as the Democratic nominee, I hope you are all ready for 4 more years of the same broken government that has done sooooo well by us these last sixteen years!
You hold people responsible for the policitcal views of "former friends" when they support them by calling that friend their mentor, by supporting him for 20 years, by having that person perform some of the most important religous services in one's life (wedding, baptisim of children).
I believe your actions speak far louder than your words. Obama can say he disavows Wright's words all he wants, but you have to look at the whole picture. 20 years of support vs. his recent position of trying to distance himself only because it is politically convenient.
Look at the big picture people.
NO WAY will I vote for this guy. Period. How politically convenient that Obama suddenly wakes up from a dream only to find his "spiritual mentor" is now a waking nightmare for the campaign.
McCain vs Clinton, my vote goes to Clinton. McCain vs Obama, my vote goes to McCain. The Democratic party needs to wake up & realize that their "savior" is gonna be a big LOSER come November if he's the candidate.
why is this even relevant?
Sorry but he won't win now, he can't. He is a General Election liability. For those of you who aree in love with him, you gonna have to love him as a senator. This is more about the Democratic party than it is about any one person. If the Dems want to the win the white house in 08 they will cut Obama loose.
My main concern with Obama is the lack of experience, and the whole issue with Rev. Wright and some other things shows that this is a problem. I too am very disappointed with Deval Patrick--it's like when he couldn't get the casinos through, he ran out of ideas--and I just don't feel the "substance" in Obama to deal with the even bigger issues the country faces. I'm not crazy about Hillary because of Bill, but I think she's got the experience we need.
I'll bet people won't be "fainting" at Obama's speeches and gatherings anymore. Acutally, my guess is that attendance will be way down. He's on an exponential spiral downward toward meaningless and a nobody after the convention. Limbaugh's "operation chaos" is working.
Rick
Hmm...hey Eric. What evidence do HRC supports have that shows she can actually win in November? Favorable/unfavorable rating? Nope. Winning in swing states? Nope. Winning blue states like Michigan? Nope. Being able to unite a party? Nope. Being a positive personality for down-ticket candidates in red states such as Alaska, Colorado, Idaho? Nope.
So exactly how does Hillary plan to win? Dividing the country? How is that better?
HRC is the candidate who cannot win. It's why she hasn't won the popular vote or the number of states. She only won many of the states she did on Feb 5 because of name recognition. She can't even maintain her 20-=point leads in states tailor made for her, such as PA. The Supers realize this and have been flocking to BO - He will be the nominee. It's been over for quite a while.
Obama did what he had to do. While this runaway train was busy "running away," Obama had no other choice but to let this idiot show his hand. Now that Wright has come out and said what he wanted to say, Obama has denounced him and will try to get back to the issues at hand...seek the Democratic nomination for President.
And if guilt by association is really what Obama's critics are complaining about....how about Hilary's association with her immoral husband, George Bush's realtionship with a scoundrel like Dick Cheney or John McCain's relationship with Pastor Hagee?
America has a chance to elect an extremely talented, intelligent leader who could very well be the next great US president. I pray that we are intelligent enough to look beyond this Wright silliness. Enough of this nonsense. Deal with real issues.
Way to little, way to late . . . BO is done
There was a time when Rev. Jerimiah Wright was once very respected and sought after, hence his trip to the White House invited by Bill and Hillary Clinton when they were going through Bill's Impeachment. During this time of trial, who did Bill and Hillary turn to for Prayer and Support, yes, the Rev. Wright himself! Then we have Hillary surrogates who have connections to Rev. Wright (1) surrogate, Congresswoman Shiela Jackson Lee, a devotee of Rev. Dr. Jeremiah Wright; he has preached at her home church, where she is actively involved, annually for the past 15 years and has an open invitation to return, and, that she sat in the pews for his visits and did not bat an eye? AND (2) surrogate, Rev. Marcia Dyson, who was not only a longtime member of Trinity United Church of Christ but also still considers Rev. Jeremiah Wright her pastor! And was it not at Trinity were she first met her husband, Rev. Dr. Michael Dyson, who's been very vocal in his defense of Rev. Wright.? So you see, there was a time that Rev. Wright was "higly respected, had great influence and sought after, hence his trip to the White House."
As for Rev. Wright's part, it seems he was "tempted" and took the "bite" to go take part in this media blitz by Hillary supporter, Rev. Dr. Barbara Reynolds from Maryland, who has endorsed Hillary on her website -- Reynoldsnews.com, all the while knowing it would cause more sensation and not be helpful to Barack Obama. This incitement and temptation by a Hillary supporter has given Barack the ability to do what a lot of his supporters wanted him to do, strongly distance himself from Rev. Wright and save his Campaig!
On the otherhand, why would a Republican-owned Media give a "retired" Rev. Wright all that air time, getting all three Cable News Channels to air Rev. Wright's 45 minute speech in its entirety, SOMETHNG RESERVED FOR PRESIDENTS. The Candidates themselves, John McCain, Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama, only receive Blips on the cable television shows for their stump speeches! Was this a coordinated effort, and by whom?
"I may not know him as well as I thought, either," Obama said.
That quote is going to leave a mark. Are we going to be subjected to the same lame excuse after President Obama gets burned by Iranian President Ahmidinjed? How about when Kim of North Korea reneges on a promise to reduce his nuclear arms production? If Obama doesn't even know his own pastor and spiritual advisor, (a person he has know for over 20 years), how can any American citizen have any confidence whatsoever in his judgement as President.
He is being unmasked as an amateur. A lot of sizzle and not much stake. To think how close America came to electing him president.
I feel sorry for Obama. With friends like Wright, who needs enemies? It was a lapse of judgement for Obama to befriend someone like Wright.
Obama is smart, energetic, but an idealist. He lacks experience. Do we need an idealist or a realist?
The Federal Income Tax Lien for $48,000.00 filed against Rev. Wright
www.webofdeception.com
I have not been a Barak Obama supporter, but up until Monday I had given Rev. Wright the benefit of the doubt. I do agree with Rev. Wright that there is a disproportinate amount of African-Americans behind bars or just plain too many people behind bars in America. There are more people in jail per capita than in China - a country that is chided for its poor record on human rights. These needs to change . . . but back to the subject.
Anyway, Rev. Wright said things beyond the pale on Monday. Rev. Wright is a pure narcissist and seemed to be intentionally trying to derail the campain. Obama said what needed to be said . . . I think it is courageouse and should be commended. He might even get my vote.
This must be what a Republican feels like after watching the last 8 years of George Bush - do you align yourself to Bush or distance yourself if you're a republican?...Allying oneself with WMD's, the war in Iraq (is the US now the only country 'defending' the Iraqi people), economic negligence, Blackwater, Enron, steroids, etc. These and a heck of a lot of other useless issues is what the current president has spent this countries time and money on....And half the country is poised to vote this party back in....Who really cares about a pastor in Chicago - especially after Obama has said he doesn't agree with Wright. We gave Bush a break after 8 years - and he had a whole government backing his politics....We gave the pope and the church a break after the horrors with priests....Let's move on and focus on the things that can actually make a difference in this country....change, not mediocrity.
Bring on the Clintons.... yet another reason and a why he will not be in victory come Nov.
The bottom line my friends is the "racial" issue remains. Talk all you want; supporters and non-supporters alike. There's been an undertow for decades and it hasn't gone away nor will it.
I am saddened by this entire spectacle. I was very impressed by Senator Obama. His eloquence is, indeed, a welcome relief from the malaprops, forget the incompetence, we have listened to for the past seven years but I am exactly the type of white voter who no longer can consider voting for Senator Obama because a man must be judged, in large measure, by the company he keeps. The Reverend Wright is every reasonable man's worst enemy. How could Senator Obama have sat through years of his sermons, and been in his company so many times, and not seen this hateful man for what he is?
20 years too late...
I don't believe Obama buys into this racist anti American crap, but he placed his bet on the black nationalist types to raise his poltical career on the south side of Chicgao - never imagining a shot at the presidency. And now those militant black liberation types have come home to roost.
Again, way too late. This should have happened in '04. The GOP will make mincemeat out of Obama/Wright.
Clinton is the only hope.
This is a totally staged event in the saga! Obama campaign has planned this event to make him look good. Hopefully, people are smart enough to recognize. Although, people voting for Obama are quite obviously ignorant and will believe Obama is really upset with, and disowning, his mentor of 20 years. It's sick to think he let his children hear the hateful sermons of this monster. A white person voting for Obama is akin to a black person voting for a former member of the KKK.
I don't see how he can recover from this. It's too bad. Only now distancing yourself from your mentor of 20 years who preaches hate and racism from the pulpit (I have listened to several of his whole sermons). For those of you who have not listened to his sermons, here are the general themes: America bad, white people really bad, Jews really, really bad.
It just might be a case of too little, too late.
I had hopes that Obama would end the war. I had hopes that Obama would not be an Oil Company stooge. I had hopes that having an African American president would be the best thing for this country. Turns out we will have a bigger obstacle in the racial divide if this guy loses. This is going to get ugly. More racism, more inflation, more war.
"Clinton is the only hope"
God help us all.
Obama is not what America needs, we need to heal, not a man who fans the fires of racism as Obama and his disgusting pastor most certainly have done. I will NEVER forgive Obama and his stupid supporters for maligning the Clintons the way they have. Hillary Clinton is a real American, not a phony like Barack, Michelle, Wright, Farrakhan and Rezko. these are the "right choices" you always talk about that you've made Obama? and have you taken any more oil company money or nuclear energy contributions lately Mr 'I don't take money from lobbyists' Obama? THIS GUY IS SHAM!! WAKE UP AMERICA!! Vote for Hillary and watch America prosper and grow once again.
Obama is not what America needs, we need to heal, not a man who fans the fires of racism as Obama and his disgusting pastor most certainly have done. I will NEVER forgive Obama and his stupid supporters for maligning the Clintons the way they have. Hillary Clinton is a real American, not a phony like Barack, Michelle, Wright, Farrakhan and Rezko. these are the "right choices" you always talk about that you've made Obama? and have you taken any more oil company money or nuclear energy contributions lately Mr 'I don't take money from lobbyists' Obama? THIS GUY IS SHAM!! WAKE UP AMERICA!! Vote for Hillary and watch America prosper and grow once again.
Obama did the right thing -- twice. Standing by the reverend initially showed Obama to be a man of loyalty and education, in that he can read words in context. But Wright's remarks of the past week put his previous comments into an entirely new context and show the Chicago minister to be brimming with hatred and self-love.
With people like Rev. Wright hounding them, it's no wonder Afro-American politicians have difficulty in national elections.
It was obvious from his "sound bites" that Wright was a racist hate monger.
It reflects VERY poorly on Obama's judgment that he couldn't see it until it hurt him in the polls. How could we trust him to judge complex matters in the international arena when he can't even see reality about those closest to him.
Shame on Obama. Shame on those still following him.
Although I don't know about his comments about AIDS, but the US gov't has committed what it would define as "terrorism" via the CIA interventions in foreign countries since its (the CIA's) inception. This is no longer disputed as fact or considered theoretical as it has all been dealt with in Congressional hearings and elsewhere. If Obama is truly denying this or the other atrocities that the US gov't has been proven to have committed, how does that make him fit for the presidency? Side note: Neither Clinton nor McCain would own up to it either.
Chutzpah? I say he's a coward. He's a coward for not standing up for the truth and a coward for not standing up to Israel as well.
mccain all the way------we are wasting too much time on these democrat idiots
I dont understand some of the comments. Obama's mother is white and he was raised by all white people. I don't see how he can be racist.
What he hates his own mother!!
That is about as crazy as voting for someone because of a comment posted on a website!!
obama made the classic mistake that all wimpy democrats have been making for years and why they never win.
his first mistake was in distancing himself from the reverend even though many of the things the rev said were said in a disgusting way. he should've said yeah, the rev is right on most things, but the way he says those things is outrageous.
running scared is what obama did, and he pandered instead of being honest. republics do don't tht crap, they get right up in your face with it. that is what people want - honesty. obama blew it bigtime. he should've said that the rev is right about almost everything and then let the chips fall where they may
Too little too late.
Ok, when is Mac going to disavow Rev Hagee who claimed again last week that Katrina was Goid's punishment for Sins of New Orleans. Here is Mississippi it killed or destroyed almost exclusively Rich Republicans homes along the beach and Mega Churches like First Baptist of Gulfport, so I guess God hates Baptist and rich Republicans. (It is called the Rich mans hurricane or Republi-cane everywhere)
For those of you who are now jumping on the Hillary bandwagon, because you think Obama is saying things in order to achieve the nomination, chew on this: Hillary would denounce and disavow Chelsea if she thought it would get her elected. She has used and manipulated people and their positions her entire political and legal career. If Obama is now looking like a Politician, maybe it's because he's just learning to be like the rest of them. It seems we wont be happy with a candidate unless they can play the game without getting caught. We are turning him into this. We are doing it.
Given that Obama has been a member of Wright's church for 20 years and takes a stand opposing Wright's rhetoric after 20 years of listening, I am left wondering if Obama has the mental ability to make a decision in a timely fashion.
I agree with PB. Obama planned this years in advance. Wright was just this mild-mannered guy who gave ordinary sermons. Obama put Wright up to it and forced Wright to make all the crazy speeches even though Wright didn't want to do it and begged Obama, "please don't make me say these things." Obama's plan is to use this poor guy Wright to discredit Christianity so that everyone will become Muslims! But is too late. Obama is really a Svengali who already has the Obamaites hypnotized like zombies out of a George Romero movie. The only thing we can do to protect ourselves from these heathens is to vote for Hillary at least two or three times and to count Michigan and Florida as many times as it takes.
Although I am not an Obama supporter, it is sad when a religious leader would publicly say such inflammatory things, even if Obama were not running for President. Rev Wright sounds like a sicko to me. While I appreciate his service to our country, I think he has something wrong with him. He rants and raves and his comments the other day were hateful. Not very Christian. It might be too late to resurrect Obama's campaign. I thought either he or Hillary would be capable to run the country, now I"m not so sure. He would be mashed potatoes after dealing with the President of Iran or any other terrorist state. He dawdles and delays doing the appropriate thing. That's probably why he didn't disassociate himself from Wright in the beginning. Not ready for prime time. Maybe in about 8 years.
Wake up! This was a not so clever plan. The Reverend appears to hurt the Obama campaign, so the Obama can get off the hook by refuting him to attempt to
deflect the heat. Think he will also start wearing the flag?
Just the same as the Bush administration is allowing (or aiding) Gasoline prices to really skyrocket, just so the oil companies and Bush and cronies can achieve their goal of drilling in Alaska before the term ends. Won't happen when the Democrats get back in.
My pastor and I are the complete opposite when it comes to politics, but I would not trade him spiritually for anything/or anyone else right now. BO is a separate human being than Rev. Wright, both have the freedom to do and say what they wish. When a black man says something a white man has said similar there is a different reaction. Check out some of the things Robertson and others have said. No outcry, no demand to distance. HRC was caught up with Whitewater, she has or had friends who went to prison for dishonesty not by association but they were plain right dishonest and I don't hear any calls for her to give up. She cannot seem to tell the truth do you want a president like that? I don't think so. Or is it that anything white is better. America wake up. OB in 08
If McCain's mean-spirited divisiveness or Hilary's pathological lying were given even half the scrutiny being levelled on Obama for his courageous efforts (and willingness to learn from mistakes, a strength not seen in candidates for at least 40 years) there would be no contest to speak of for the media to keep churning about. Maybe it's been so long since a decent human being was running for office that we've forgotten what it's like to deal with one in the media. With Obama there is a chance for something to be different, with either of the other candidates you can guarantee more of the same (Iraq, Economy, et al).
It is entirely believable that Obama did not hear the full extent of Wright's extremist views. Out of 20 years worth of sermons, it appears that the controversial, extremist material is contained in about 4-5 sermons including some recent ones that we delivered while Obama was on the campaign trail. Surely the Republicans and the Clinton campaign have exhaustively pored through every sermon of Wright's. Yet they can only find this extremist material in those 4-5 sermons. Hmm.
A day late and a dollar short... let's hope that if, by some awful twist of fate, he actually does become President that he's quicker to do the right thing. Even if he truly doesn't believe it.
Wendy, chances are that your pastor does not preach politics from th pulpit week after week either. If he did you'd probably be going somewhere else.
I will leave the hate speech and the caps at home.
All I know is that Obama, in what he has said and what he has done, always have behaved decently.
Cynics will shout that it is because he is a manipulating liar who will fool people by hs very decency. You will say "Do not trust this man - he is too young. Do not trust this man, he is too kind, that must be weakness. Do not trust this man, he is too black."
The late CS Lewis would have been able to put this better than I - but in my view, that is Satan talking. He will strike at decency wherever it exists. In Obama I see a person who is honest to the very core. Have we become so jaded that we can not trust anybody but those we know to be corrupt?
Does it matter that Barack Obama finally dounces his irreverent Pastor? The issue is Barack Obama's Character. Barack Obama's muslim, Marxist/socialist friends and back ground. Not his color. Let's not forget . His Affiliation with Rezko that the "Timesonline" Telegraph were the first to expose. Then is double talk with Canada. Lets not his songs to Mexico. Trying to give illegal aliens the Dream Act in California.
What is this? I whine my way into the White House? If you do not want to vote for Barack Obama, then you are a racist.? I'm a black woman. I don't want vote for Barack Hussein Obama because of stand on abortion, homosexuality, illegal immigration, and his communist views.
In his much praised, but mediocre speech, he made excuses and blamed America for Rev Wright racist views. He said "white men were angry with illegal immigrants because they feared immigrants (illegal aliens) were here to take their jobs and looked different from them." Exatly what color is llegal alien anyway? He did it again when he said midwesterners were bitter and cling on to God and guns, and were against trade. Yet he has consistently made fun for of Bush and Clinton for NAFTA. The same retoric he used, all the while he was making deals with the priminster (Harper) of Canada.
So this "denoucing" Barack Obama is doing is Poliical. Now he will do this to save his very faulty campaigne. I don't want to vote for him. Because of his character. so we are supposed to be stupid now? And just vote for Obama now that he finally (SO WHAT!!!) denounces his racist pastor of 23 years.
I hope people will see this next move. It's phony. Now, Obama is not at fault at all?Yes he is. It's a farce. Don't let Obama off the hook. No we do not all know eachother. We do not all support evil together...............
When the economy/country continues to go in the toilet, I hope you all keep one thing in mind, you get the government you deserve.
Let's be real. This is McCain's race to lose at this point. Clinton has alienated the Black vote, Barack can't win the working class white vote, and McCain is just laying back in the cut waiting to coast to the White House. It doesn't matter who gets the nomination, the only candidate that McCain has to beat is himself.
I just watched the video of Wright's speech and he said nothing radical or controversial. Most of the comments on this page seem to emanate from the easily manipulated sheep. http://video.aol.com/video-detail/rev-wrights-speech-at-the-national-press-club/3500782543
Reverend Wright is being honest in his belief in Black Liberation Theology; it is Barak Obama who is patently dishonest in telling us that he didn't know what the Reverend was all about.
i am so proud to be an Obama supporter. I hope the American people will have the wisdom to realize how fortunate we are to have Obama for a candidate.
To all those who question why Obama sat in the pews of Reverend Wright for 20 years, you only have to ask why you may have sat in your own church for many years led by a priest, pastor, or rabbi with whom you had serious differences, but otherwise felt at home with the congregation itself. First of all, you probably got along quite well with this leader at first, and may be even for some time. Especially in the prophetic tradition of the black church, colorful criticism of various social sins and ills is very common. It would take quite an extreme for Obama to have noticed a change in Wright's sermons if they were anything like many who follow in that tradition. At the same time, this is the church talking, and we all discount what we consider anachronistic elements of our churches simply to live in the modern world.
Finally, Obama is who he is, in large part, because he has lived with so many different American subcultures. He has had to reconcile many different strands of his own American identity. Frankly, for a black presidential candidate to arise who did not experience and maintain a strong connection with black culture would hardly be possible, especially one who has worked hard to mitigate the problems in poor black communities. In Obama, we have a candidate who has done all that and much more besides. He has seen both the potential and the actuality of Americans working across racial and cultural lines to get things accomplished for everyone's benefit.
It seems to me that if Obama cannot make the cut, I'm not sure that any candidate from the black community could ever hope to make it. In that case, simply growing up among one's own people would be sufficient cause to disqualify him or her. Might that not represent a fine commentary on what America is becoming? I certainly hope not.
As much as it must pain Obama to face it, I think Reverend Wright is just the foil that Obama needs to clearly make his case that a new perspective is necessary, and the best thing Obama can possibly hope to do is to set his record straight regarding Reverend Wright firmly convincingly.
Aloha Uncle Chris,
I want to explain the "crazy uncle" thing. Barack grew up in Hawaii where everybody calls people they know and who are older than them "uncle" or "auntie" . This is a jesture of respect or courtesy. These auntie's and uncle's are not related to anyone by blood. It's just part of our culture.
Thank you,
Patricia