Roland,
I think that you are right on the money with this. If Tavis wanted his forum to actually mean anything he should have done it before this past Saturday! It is poor timing on his part. I don’t think Obama should snub it altogether but I don’t think he should go. Maybe sending his wife or someone else in his place is the best way to go even if Tavis likes it or not. Obama needs to keep looking ahead and not lose the steam that he has going right now if he ever wants to catch up and pass Hillary in the delegate count.

As far as Hillary and McCain I think they both need to make an appearance there as it will show the African Americans that they do care about their issues. And maybe it will garner them some more votes from that community because neither are doing as well as Obama.

Cynthia, Covington, Ga.

Roland

I have listened to you on CNN quite a bit over the past few weeks and have often disagreed with your view point. Even so I enjoy your lively discussions with the others and believe as many points of view should be covered so we are educated to make decisions. I agree with a lot you are saying in your blog, but I am confused by some of the things I am hearing said on CNN.

Earlier on I heard a lot of people say that our vote should not be about race or religion. (What I didn’t hear so much of was that our vote should not be based on gender.)

I know my support of Clinton is because she is a woman and for the history of the country the last thing that seems to have been on the minds of any president is women’s (and famliy) issues.

What seems strange to me is that from the results of the polls it appears that this political race for most blacks is about just that - race. When you see that only 25% of blacks voted for Clinton what else could it be?

Somehow we no longer hear that selection of a president shouldn’t be about race - so all I can assume is that when Obama was trying to get more coverage for his capaign and many blacks were swinging toward Clinton, then your candiate selection should not be about race, but now that they are catching up we no longer hear this phrase anymore.

After all how would it look if Clinton now said “this capaign should not be about race.”

Also, during one of the debates with Clinton and Obama I heard Obama say things to blacks about black that if said by Clinton, there would have been an uproar. Should the media not take both sides to task over the issue. I was offended as a white that it is okay for a black to say something to their own race that would be considered improper for a white to say to a black.

Sorry I can’t remember the remark or the context, but when blacks do this it puts them on one side of the line and whites on another, and this seems to be what blacks now want - when it took so long to get the freedoms they have.

Also, I am from outside of Toronto Canada. We have an interesting story here you may want to look into. The school board in Toronto has voted in favour of black only schools (at the request of black parents). The idea is to segregate the students (at the request of their parents) so that they can learn more about their culture and in a way that is more condusive to their learning. Why - becuase they have an extremely high drop out rate and it is believed this will encourage teens to stay at school longer. Take a look into it - there’s more to it.

Mr. Martin,
You couldn’t have been more clearer, I agree whole heartedly.

Well said, Mr. Martin! Now see if you can explain it to Tom Joyner and Tavis Smiley. Their constant presure on Senator Obama to prove that he’s so-called
‘black-enough’ is all that the opposition has to wait on. As usual, we are our own WORST ENEMY!

I’m trying to parse your argument, Roland, and it seems to boil down to this:

Hillary has to suck up to a radio host because she’s white; Obama shouldn’t attend for fear of appearing TOO black.

Do I have that right?

Hi Roland, at this stage in the game, every second on the ground counts. Yes, it will be wise for Mrs. Clinton to show up at this event for the reasons you stated. If Mr. Obama truly can’t make it, he should send his wife. If they see her, they’ll appreciate her presence, understand Mr. Obama’s inability to attend, and it will unruffle feathers that were ruffled from the past. Any effort on his part would go a long way.

Thanks,
Lilibeth
Edmonds, Washington

Mr. Martin,

I agree with you 100% .Mr. Smiley”s request is totally ridiculous especially at such a crucial time in our history. Mr. Smiley needs to get it together. I wonder if he might be just a little envious of how Americans as a whole are responding so positively to Mr. Obama. Is Mr. Smiley really concerned about the plight of African Americans or does he want to be in the limelight? I have become very disenchanted with Mr. Smiley. Who does he think he is?

I believe as the race continues to go down to the wire, various groups are going to demand face time with both Obama and Hillary. Since I have listened to Tavis over the years and generally think he is right on the money about certain issues that impact African Americans. I take issue with this sort of forced “show up and you will get support” idea, if that is ultimately what is being alluded to. Perhaps, it is poor timing, to go back to LA after the primary when Obama needs to strategically look at Ohio and Texas. I think the timing for the event in LA was more about the logisitics and planning that was in effect over a longer period of time and the Town Hall Meeting was already set during the period when Obama was not such a tremendous force. I admire Tavis and Tom and others who have made efforts to galvanize African Americans in areas of voting, health and youth issues. I do think they carry a lot of influence, however, in this race to the white house it has to be about the candidate that is energizing people of all races and ethnicity ; it is not just about a Black candidate, for me, it is about the man who I heard deliver his speech after winning the South Carolina primary,–a man I had not listened to before, His energy and inspiration that brought tears to my eyes, and he gave me a sense of hope at 61 years old–”I believe him ” “Yes we Can”–The United States can be different, relationships can be different, and we can empower ourselves….at last.

I’m just curious how come no one is reporting that Oprah donated $100 million to Obama’s campaign?

After all, wasn’t he the one who said that his campaign contributions come from normal individual sponsors and grassroot organizations? The last time I checked, the name Oprah was a trademark.

Roland:
You are right on point, Obama does need to be in the big states, because that is what Senator Clinton is banking on, especially on the Latino, vote, I am latino and think he is the best candidate for president, many people are saying that he does not discuss his stances on the core issues, but in this eletronic age, people should do their homework and read about his stances on the issues on his website. I feel Texas is a state he really needs to work on because of the delegates and I think he just needs a split. Keep the boots on the ground and go out and talk to the Latino people, who only know Bill Clinton from the time he was President and think that Senator Clinton willl have the same policies as him. Thank you and please go to both their websites for information and make an informed decision before voting and don’t vote on the past but vote on the present.

Roland, I agree wholeheartedly. Mr. Obama needs to focus on the future not the past. He won Louisiana this past Saturday. Now lets focus on Texas. We need him win Texas as a matter of fact another sweep would be excellent. Let us not get bogged down about race. It seems to me that may Tavis is using this as a way to highlight his event and garner more attention to it. All of your points are right on the money. Sending Michelle is the absolute best idea.

Obama is getting 80+ percent of the black vote, so he doesn’t need any black forums, etc.
I heard on NPR where blacks who support Clinton were being made to feel guilty by their fellow blacks who are backing Obama. That will continue to happen.

Obama needs to shore up the black vote and the youth vote.
Clinton needs to go after the hispanic, union, and elderly vote.

Texas and Ohio is more important that self-important Tavis Smiley.

Mr. Martin, BRAVO! Well said and explained.
Lesli, regarding your confusion about why it’s “ok” for a black man to say something about black men, but not for a white candidate… I’m sorry, but that is not the issue. Barack Obama has the courage to say things that should have been said a long time ago. The way I see it, no other candidate has ever been brave enough to “go there”. These are truths and views that should have been discussed a very long time ago. I was floored when I heard him say those things on that debate! And ECSTATC! It’s about time someone sees BOTH sides of the fence in America. He is THE Candidate. Not “The BLACK Candidate”.

I now get a feel of insight of Roland that he yields over his deep understanding on politics and that too issues for Black Americans,Good analysis

bok bok bok bok bok bok. Sounds more to me like he’s chicken and afraid to talk about the Black agenda. I don’t know why you would so down play brother Tavis’ efforts, but his writings, his programming and his dedication at the very least to the black community would be treated as second class if anyone but Senator Obama showed up in person. Just because he knows he has the black vote wrapped up he should not take it for granted. Pride cometh before a fall.

But it’s okay for him to be defined as the black candidate in highly democratic populated black states to ensure he gets those votes? How disgraceful this article is. So Martin, you’re pretty much saying that he can define himself as the black candidate in specific states, but watch out because Texas and Ohio are coming up so stay away from the blacks.

You have just confirmed my thoughts that the Obama campaign is so using the RACE CARD to their advantage. I guess it was no suprise that for the first time he showed his white mother in a tv ad..not in South Carolina….not in Georgia…but in California. Why you ask? So he could get as many white votes as possible.

Simply disgusting!

I have to agree with you Martin…but I will bet Mrs. Clinton will make it an issue and after her comments today, I would hope that Tavis doesn’t let her off easy.

Hi Roland,

Not a big fan of yours but I respect everyones opinion. I have reluctantly listened to Tavis on Joyner’s show. I love Tavis Smiley but he is dissapointing me on this one issue. Its almost as if he wants Barack to forget he’s running for president and cater to nothing but blacks. (I myself am black)

Obama talks about unity, not segregative thinking.. I do not want him to consider only black issues but the issues of ALL people of ALL races. Obama has been hard pressed to get support from Smiley although he has called into Joyner’s show plenty of times.. something a lot of radio shows who support Obama have not been able to obtain.

Let Tavis go off and raise hell, Obama has gone out of his way to leave race out of the primary and that is why his base is so diverse. If he doesn’t show up I could care less, if they criticize him it will only prove the crab in a barrel mentality of some blacks.

Arachnae,

Your simplification of the issue is inaccurate but expected. Sen Clinton should attend not because she’s white but because she and her husband have been playing racial politics and have alienated the black community. In order to save face, she needs to show up. As for Sen Obama, you’re actually not too far off on this one. In America, white people are not comfortable with black people who talk about being black. Obama doesn’t dwell on his blackness, thus the appeal to many whites. Ever since the Clintons started playing the race card, white voters have run away from Obama in large masses. Notice before South Carolina, Obama did well with white voters but not after. The same is true with hispanic voters. Unfortunately, minorities have been conditioned to fight with each other for the title of #1 second class citizen instead of demanding that they all be treated like first class citizens. When Obama focuses on being black, he further alienates himself from hispanic voters. In short, Obama needs to skip the forum and Tavis needs to quit trippin’.

Lets get some fair reporting out there. Lets stop giving one candidate more free TV time than the other. And you know what I’m talking about!

Lets change the CNN view and add some Latino’s , or is CNN literally Black and White. Oh, Maybe Rick Sanchez , (having one Hispanic reporter ) meets the requirement, isn’t that how it was for Blacks at one time.

If you want someone in the Oval Office (one of the most important executive seats in the world), that is not elected because of the race issue you need to diversify the commentators. Lets give everyone a chance to express their view and/or comments.

I don’t want a snake oil saleman or a whimpy woman in office, but I do want someone with the negotiation expertise and experience to get things through congress.

So how about leveling the field and opening the door!

Agreement all the way! Yes, the timing is totally off and true consideration should have been made. Is Tavis trying to play the race card here, DUHD? Lets all remember this is about America coming together with the Melting Pot of Cultures and not to divide the issues, which are the same for all.
Obama must deal with all Americans and so far he is making grounds.
Mrs. Obama is a serious consideration along with momentum of her character and people do appreciate her along, with her husband.
We, the voters, must understand if we want change - there must be important decisions made to go forward - all candidates make these and other decisions in the race.
Lets stand up and take heart and move on!
President Obama 2008!

Roland, I completely agree. I am black and I don’t believe that we should continue to complain that we have extra problems. Obama is not running for President of Black America. I can’t believe that Tavis Smiley is being so inconsiderate, he could at least wait until the nominee is decided. Seems he is just trying to get attention. Everyone in America is concerned about the same issues as you stated: the war in Iraq; healthcare; jobs and the economy; and education. There is no need to specifically target a specific group! I can’t help but think Hillary is behind this! lol…she is constantly pandering to black people. For those of you who think black people are only voting for Obama because he is black, you are only insulting an entire race of people. God forbid we vote for him because we believe he is the best candidate! No one complained when we have been voting for white men all this time and predominantly for the Democratic party! Get over it! She should be lucky it’s not 100% of the black people voting for him instead of her!

Roland, are you a journalist or an Obama advisor? I hear much talk about the black vote, but not a word about the women’s vote, which at this point is a more significant hurdle for Obama to overcome in a general election given the damage of the primary campaign thus far.

Excuses, excuses when in the Illinois Legislature when there were votes that pinned you down Obama voted “Present” or was out of town.
How many votes has Obama avoided taking a stance on, by being someplace else instead of in Washington.
If Obama accepted and Hillary didn’t you would be racking her over the coals, but since Obama is your man you like others find excuses for him.
Further more you know first hand the Obama’s claims of his accomplishments in the Illinois Legislature are highly exaggerated.

I feel that instead of running from his Black Critics…he should confront them in public. They have all been slinging mud, just as much as the Clinton’s. We have got to stop this double standard. I was even dissapointed at Tavis Smiley when I saw it on YouTube last year…I was sad to see everyone’s reactions…. Both —Sen. Obama or his wife, and the Clinton’s should attend.

Obama is leading a movement that rejects fear…this includes casting off the fear of the Black establishment as well.

Mr. Roalnd:

Excellent analysis, and I hope Obama and his strategists are thinking along the same lines. Attending this event is not a value-add, it’s not positive, and has PLE NTY of negatives.

I enjoy listening to you on CNN. Several people on the panel and in the media are ALWAYS looking for the racial angle in what Obama’s trying to do, and this reduces the significance of victories.

Keep up the good work.

Kofi B

Sen. Obama needs to wake up and smell the coffee. It’s almost as if he’s trying to ignore the fact that he is black and race DOES MATTER. It doesn’t matter how many times we try to deny it in this country.

Apparently no one is paying attention to Obama’s view on Affirmative Action.
This is Obama’s view on Affirmative Action as reported by the New York Times: “In a wide-ranging interview, Mr. Obama, a graduate of Columbia University and Harvard Law School, said affirmative action programs should ultimately become “a diminishing tool for us to achieve racial equality in this society.”

This is a true insult to the Civil Rights Movement. You simply can’t trust “White America” to do the right thing.

Black folk are going to be suprised when our civil rights are washed away and Obama will let them. Oh well, I guess race doesn’t matter.

I still think that it is funny to think that Obama has to spend much more time with voters than Hillary does. The media has plastered Obama all over the place. We can’t escape him if we try. He has become a household name, much like Hillary. While I respect you and agree with you quite often, Roland, I think that your argument could easily go down the path of “Hillary only won in Florida based on name recognition.” The people of Florida have said elsewise. They and the people of the other states with upcoming primaries/caucuses have the internet, tv, books, magazines and newspapers. We know the candidates. It shouldn’t take a loud rally to get someone interested in a candidate. If it does, then maybe they are interested for some of the wrong reasons.

Roland I whole heartedly agree with your comment. Give me a break Tavis. Barack is doing just what he should be doing, hitting the ground running. Every second counts. Tavis acts as though he is the voice for black america. I know that he loves black people don’t get me wrong, but he is always barking the issues. He’s like an attack dog when it comes to black america. If he would just back up, speak slowly and clearly maybe someone would hear him. He’s like that dog that everytime you walk by the fence he is barking. After a while you don’t pay the dog any attention. Barack is running for the president of the United States not black america. How can he even begin to speak for African Amerians if he doesn’t get the nomination. So what even if he doesn’t show up and Tavis goes after him, how much pull does Tavis thinks he really has. I think he believes that people care about what he thinks more than we really do. We should do a poll on Tavis. How many people think Tavis has too up in your face attack dog tactics?

Michelle would make a great surrugate. Good analysis of the situation.

Kia

Why does people like Roland Martin always have to make race such an issue. Get over it! I’m a Black man, and this kind of discussion disgusts me. And for the record, it makes Barack Obama look bad. Please stop it.

IT IS INTERESTING TO ME THAT EVERYONE SEEMS TO THINK IT IS A GOOD IDEA FOR MRS. OBAMA TO GO AND REPRESENT MR. OBAMA. BUT WHAT WOULD HAPPEN IF BILL WENT TO REPRESENT HILLARY? THE PRESS WOULD TEAR THEM BOTH TO PEICES.

NOW YOU WANT TO TALK ABOUT A TWO SIDED VEIW OF THE SAME THING, LOOK AT THAT. EVERYONE THINKS IT IS TERRIBLE FOR HIM TO CAMPAIGN HARD FOR HER, BUT THINKS IT PERFECTLY OK FOR MRS. OBAMA TO CAMPAIGN FOR HIM.

IF WE ARE GOING TO JUDGE THESE TWO CANIDATES LET’S JUDGE THE THE SAME AND TO THIS POINT IN THE GAME, SHE HAS NOT, I REPEAT NOT GOTTEN EQUAL TREATMENT. SHE IS A WHITE FEMALE, HE IS A BLACK MALE BUT IN REALITY THEY ARE BOTH SIMPLY AMERICANS TRYING TO DO WHAT THEY CAN TO HELP THIS COUNTRY. EITHER ONE OF THESE PEOPLE WOULD BE SUCH AN IMPROVEMENT OVER THE LAST 8 YEARS, WE SHOULD JUMP AT THE CHANCE TO GET EITHER ONE.

While you can’t discount the black influence in this very close democratic contest you also can’t discount the fact that white, middle-America voters might be swayed to vote for Clinton if Obama comes off as overly “black friendly”. I know, I know it’s awful. But it’s still true. Obama is in no risk of being viewed exactly the way Jesse Jackson was when he ran for president as this truly is a different period in time and Obama’s campaign is also very different in tone and approach. But some things about this nation are not different or at least not THAT different than they were 25 years ago. And mild racial prejudices still exist amongst a large portion of the white voting population. Especially those in the upper age brackets sadly.

If Obama spends the time between now and the Texas/Ohio contests courting those specific voters and not worrying about a sect of the population he has already secured he will be all the better for it. Politics, an awkward sad world.

I agree whole-heartedly with you Mr. Martin, as well as Mary G. LeBlanc. It seems that Tavis Smiley is setting a test when Obama will be tested enough by white, latino, asian and women voters. Seems like a very mocking invitation, considering ground he has to cover in Ohio and Texas. Maybe a happy medium would be to satellite the debate or bring his wife Michelle , as was already mentioned.
On another note……
Obama is black (for non-believers)…..his walk, his talk, his hope (some things can’t be faked). Black people have been hoping for a long time, and through the years a great deal of that hope has paid off. Other races forgot the strength of hope as it was a grand belief so long ago in their history. Obama rekindles the fire of hope and realizes that this is what we need to bring a nation together. We as black people should allow him to reach those heights….or have we too forgotten about hope?

Lesli, excellent post. I fully subscribe!

Roland,
I like how you break this down. Although Tavis Smiley and others may be miffed by Obama’s absence; Obama needs every moment he can on the ground in Texas and Ohio. If he can arrange his schedule to make it work, then great. If he opts not to, then I hope folks will understand that it isn’t out of disrespect or lack of comittment to black issues, but a necessity on his way to getting the Dem nomination.

(Also, check your pronouns. I think you just called Michelle a “he” !)
-Lisa

Barack doesn’t excell in debates so he will pass. Hillary can make her case without him. A wasted day - I don’t think so!

Hillary the HOPE of 08

Prefect solution to this minor problem. Obama need to be out there on the grind for Texas and Ohio. Michelle can handle herself well with this forum and Oprah can attend in with her for back up..

Mr. Martin…”thank you” yes Obama is black but we are putting so much unnecessary pressure on him because of his race it hurts my heart. The man is doing the best he can and so far he is doing something right because he is reaching everyone…bad timing he should have done it sooner…and I believe Barack has to do what is best for the campaign and continue to move forward…

And we all know if Michelle went Clinton wouldn’t even play have the games that she normally does-Michelle does not play that and she is very well spoken like her husband. I would love to see a Michelle and Hillary debate it would be interesting…

In response to Lesli’s post:
I am worried by your assumption that blacks are only voting for Obama because of race. If you remember less than 6 months ago, Clinton was actually polling with 50-60% of the black vote in some states and overall. The change has come because of several reasons and not just because of Obama’s race. Six months ago people were not as attuned to Obama’s policies, perspectives and also probably had not heard him speak. The Clinton campaign also has unfortunately alienated many voters of all colors by their racialized and ugly campaigning tactics.
Also what i find disconcerting about your statements is that in every racial group, Obama’s numbers have increased. Yet you don’t mention this instead you have simplified the arguement to the skin color of a candidate.

Lastly you contradict the very rationale that has you complaining about Blacks voting for Obama, in that people are voting purely off of identity politics. Yet you claim to be voting for clinton because she’s a woman. You are not questioning why White, female voters are voting overwhelming for Clinton because if you did then your arguements and complaints have nothing to stand on.

Myself I am voting for Obama because of his long-standing opposition to the war, to his better healthcare proposal (Mandates as Clinton is proposing have not worked in Massachusetts and unfairly penalize the poor), his desire to change our diplomatic tactics around the world and actually talk and negotiate with unfriendly countries, his policy of ending the cuban embargo which unfairly penalizes the cuban people and lastly his desire to the end the disparities in crack v.s powder cocaine laws that are racist, classist and result in a unfairly high prison population of blacks, latinos and poor people. These are some of the legitimate reasons why Obama is bringing in so many supporters.

Jeremy Kaplan
Brooklyn, NY

Hi Roland, I feel like if he can make it then he should, but if he can’t then he can’t. He is running for The president of the United States of America. More than likely it’s his last time running for president. He will always be black and besides this is a yearly event. He can go next year.

I totally agree with you Roland. I cannot believe what challenge Tavis is putting on him. I think Obama needs to continue on his path and focus on Texas and Ohio.

Michele cannot compare to Hillary. Michele is not candidate, she is just a wife of candidate, Hillary is candidate. Should we than put Mr president Clinton in talks with Obama?
Hillary should not even get into debates with M. This is not proper.
And I do think Obama should appear there also. He should not have any privileges more than the others.

Roland,

I have been watching you on CNN lately and you make sense most of the time. On this issue you are 110% correct!

Keep up the good work!

Daniel

Spin it, Martin. And for years, whites were called racist! It’s these comments that spread the anger.

I agree. Michelle Obama and handle that forum. And Obama goes meets and greets the great citizens of Texas and Ohio.

Roland,

Nice analysis of the situation. Michelle Obama would be a good surrogate and her opinions on things would be fascinating to hear. Hopefully Clinton would have a good surrogate to cover Texas and Ohio for her that day so the playing field stays level.

Suzanne
Knoxville TN

Roland,

I agree with you totally regarding timing, it is a pivotal time in his campaign. But I also agree with the commenter that perhaps he could send Michelle, she could handle it. Senator Clinton needs all the free press she can get and to reappeal to the African American community. If Barack’s failure to attend a conference hosted by Tavis Smiley determines whether we feel he is Black enough, then let’s examine ourselves.

I have the highest regard and respect for Tavis for his opinions and much appreciated efforts on behalf of black people. I would agree that the timing of the forum is unfortunate. However, I would agree with you Roland that ‘black folk’ (as Tavis would say) need not have undue expectations of him ANY more than WE would of any of the other candidates. Also as black folk, we KNOW what it is like for us competing in todays ‘corporate’ environment…. the expectation is THAT much higher for us. The same is for Obama. WE should also appreciate the precarious position he (and his candidacy) is in in that he cannot give the impression of partiallity towards any ONE group of people lest he forfeit his appeal to all. It is at THIS time that we should be understanding of that. I for one am willing to sacrifice his APPEARANCE at the forum, knowing in my heart that he ‘feels us’! ‘Feel me’?

I think he should send Michelle Obama and skip the event. I watch this event on CSPAN regularly but I was turned off when the audience and the people on the stage lead by Al Sharpton tried to insinuate that Barack isn’t “black enough.” It was very disrespectful and childish. That type of behavior is something that plagues the black community and needs to end. Sen. Obama doesn’t need to give Sen. Clinton more free air time. Go campaign in Texas. Don’t give in to Mr. Smiley’s bully ways. He comes off like a child, “I’ll snap on anyone that doesn’t attend.” What adult talks like that?

Right on the Money with this analysis!!

Am I the only person who believes that Obama has perpetuated the race card himself? The man is bi-racial, yet even with all his opportunities in the media to reveal this, has chosen to be black. 80-85% of any given voting population is a coup for any campaign. Should he go? Why should he….if he doesn’t, the press including CNN will find some way of spinning the whole thing in his favor. Odd, that for someone who speaks of bringing us all together and as the savior of all races this smacks of division…all from the Obama campaign. Can’t we HOPE for better?

Could you imagine if this had broke prior to this week? If Obama had declined to attend and Hillary accepted a lot more African Americans would be questioning their support of Obama. He lucked out big time.

Good analysis Mr. Martin. I bet Hillary wished she had such a good supporter on CNN as well.

Roland - Thank you, first, for reporting this. Excellent analysis!
AK - You clearly have no idea what you’re talking about. I am bi-racial. Though to me, I am first a woman, mom, wife, daughter, and friend, when I walk out my door — I am black. No way to spin it. The media consistently paints him into a box. Moreover, African-Americans in the beginning would say “he’s not black enough”; now others say “he’s too black”. What’s he to do? I’ll tell you……..He’s to continue articulating his plan for ALL Americans, because in the end, we care about the same thing. We care about the economy, we care about our troops in Iraq, and we care about health care. We are more alike than we are different. It’s sad and ignorant to say that he’s bi-racial, but doesn’t “reveal” it. He proudly talks about his heritage. The media takes more pleasure, however, in pointing out that he’s “the black candidate”. They have an agenda.

I am an African American woman, proud to see an African American person to run for the office of president. We will not have an opportunity like this in a long while, if ever. It takes negroes to try to ruin this moment.

I am African American, but I will not your narrow idea of what it takes to be one according to your standards. Just as Barack, I am African American and there is nothing you can do about it or change it. He doesn’t have anything to prove to you.

Yes, Obama is running for the UNITED STATES of AMERICA…Clinton, with her comment today about the “caucuses do not really represent the electorate..” and the “red states” that Obama won, the DNC wouldn’t win in Nov., shows you that Clinton is running to be the “President of the Blue States.”

Obama needs to skip this rally and send Michelle or another surrogate in his place.

Tavis hardly ever has a balanced panel in the State of the Union, especially women panelists.

Great analysis Roland!!

I am so confused by your commentary. In your article it is apparent that you are saying race is not an issue, but you also state that Obama should skip Tavis Smiley’s event and go after the latino vote in Texas? Last time I checked, Latino was a race as well. So basically you are saying to pass up the race you have already conquered and take over another one then go to Ohio and take over another one? Another thing, sending in Michelle Obama? Bad idea. Is she going to be a part of shaping policy if her husband is elected president? Isn’t that what got Hillary in trouble when her husband was in office? What a hypocritical society we are.

I am not surprised Obama was a no show. He voted 130 times in the Illinois state house ” present” so not to step on political toes. He is supposed to be representing the Illinois taxpayers in the US Senate of which he was absent 167 out of 443 votes in 2007 because he was running for president. And being an African-American, I guess its a given, he alreaad has your votes.

Why would you send Michelle Obama? she is not running for president.

Obama should show up. Most black folks are voting for him. I am sure he can fly in for 2 hours and leave immediately following that time on the panel.

Basically he has sailed through this competition because he is black. No one dare say a word about him because they would be called a racists. This is a double standard here. Anything Senator Clinton says is twisted and taken out of context. She and Bill Clinton would never say anything bad and cynical about people of color. Most people of color have been there for them and they have been there for people of color. Give credit where credit is due. Senator Clinton even campaigned for Barack when he was running for the seat in Illinois.

Michele and Oprah will be Barack’s close advisors.

I am an African-American male born and raised in West Tennesse. I voted for Bill Clinton in 1996 and Al Gore in 2000. Now, let’s move on.

I would advise Barack and Michelle to stay far away from the state of the Black Union event. There is no need for Barack or Michelle to have to answer questions or exchange barbs with Hillary Clinton or Tavis Smiley or Tom Joyner or political pundits. Barack Obama is running to be the President of the United States of America in order to represent ALL Americans!

Shame on Tavis Smiley and Tom Joyner. How ignorant. I would think they would know the Clintons better.

Barack would be able to do more for ALL Americans such as inspiring ALL Americans to ask what they can do for their country instead of what Barack can do for me. When Barack becomes President, I tell you what he can do for me … GOVERN!!!!!!!!!

I’m tired of the argument that black people are only voting for Barack because he’s black. Believe me when I say that ” black people” would never vote for ClarenceThomas, Larry Elder or Alan Keyes they are black however, their views are not in alignment with the larger African American community. WE VOTE OWN INTEREST like every other group in America!!!! We are supporting him for reasons that people across the country are supporting him. We are in support him because of his commitment to poor people, seniors, veterans, women and immigrants. If you want to learn something, have an original conversation and commentary. As for Tavis, he does speak for me. I am free 2 think i advise u 2 do the same…..

Sorry to say that Tavis Smiley, in my view, has the mentality of an activist. He seems to think or believe that every Black American (in fact every American - for that matter) should address the “Black Problems” is his (Tavis) way. Otherwise he or she is seen as being against the Black cause by the same clique. it is unfortunate!
My advise to Barack Obama is that he should focus on his presidential bid - which in my view - is a higher call to service on behalf of ALL Americans.
Come to think of it, the Black Union Forum that was held last year what did it achieve for the poor, uneducated Blacks? It seems to me it s a forum to talk the talk and NOT walk to walk. Oh, I forgot, it is a forum to capture personal recognition!

I agree with you Martin. If Tavis is absolutely compelling Obama to attend in order not to rail against him, then someone needs to let him know the days of the rabbi’s are over. I dearly respect Tavis and listens to him on the TJMS in the morning; that said, he should not turn himself into another Sharpton who feels you, as a black candidate running for an election, need to kiss his ring in order to get him to support you. Rev. Al, ran for everything in New york city, State and the presidency and yet did not win anything because he was the black candidate. I say Obama should continue to talk to the whole country and not cowtow to anyone. If Obama is destined to get there, it does not matter what Tavis does or say, he will get there. Tavis is not God. He should take a look at Limbaugh and his extremist band on the right. They were powerless in foisting their candidate of change, the flip-flopper himself, the Mitt-man from Mass., on the Republicans.
As mentioned earlier, whichever candidate becomes the president, take my word for it, he or she was pre-ordained by God not the likes of Tavis Limbaugh or Rush Smiley.
Continue to be real Martin.

ROLAND MARTIN

I agree with you nearly fully (the exceptions are not significant)

ROBERT MARTIN

There is a fundamental difference between Mrs. Martin representing BARACK
and Bill representing Hillary !

Mrs. Martin is not considering BARACK as her front to govern !!

TOM

HEY D N DC

WHY DONT YOU POINT OUT SOME OF THEM THING THAT BARRACK WANTS TO DO AND EXACTLY HOW HE PLANS TO FUND AND ALSO MAKE IT HAPPEN? I “HOPE”, HOPE IS NOT YOUR ANSWER.

I HOPE YOUR DREAMS OF HOPE THROUGH IN THE NAME OF HOPE ARE REALIZED BECAUSE ALL THINGS ARE ACCOMPLISHED THROUGH HOPE AND NOT ACTION AND HARD WORK.

I’m curious to hear how Sean (Comment No. 7) manages to get away with blatant lying slander, even though all comments are supposedly reviewed by CNN. He writes: “I’m just curious how come no one is reporting that Oprah donated $100 million to Obama’s campaign?”

The claim about Oprah’s donation is of course false – and if it were true, would be completely illegal and end Obamas campaign immediately. The maximum she is allowed to give, just like any other citizen, is $2300 for the primary, and $2300 for the general election.

So please remove this nonsense from Sean.

Roland, I couldn’t agree with you more. Senator Obama is running for president of the United States, which includes all nationalities not just African Americans. And isn’t it interesting that the majority of Obamas’ supporters are educated which means they think for themselves.

I think it should be noted that since Hillary has had to revamp her team twice and has missed her goals repeatedly through underestimation, I am no longer able to believe that she is ready for day one.

In fact I think she has fumbled quite a bit and it is starting to look like Bush’s team.

If Obama go to the forum, the majority of the people on the forum will be Clinton supporters. He will be not only debating Clinton but all the other supports. This is a set up by Travis and other black member that support Clinton. Travis do not represents the majority of black in America and half the blacks member on the forum do not represent black in America. I am an independent and a black America.

Roland,

Tavis Smiley is obviously full of himself. Obama is not running for black people he is running for all people who are ready for change. Black folk have no more rights to his time than anyone else. To do it any other way is to go back to when whites received preferential treatment because the candidate was white. Now let the color thing go back where it has been all of these years when no one talked about how many whites voted for a white candidate. Could it be that more blacks are voting for Obama for the same reasons that whites are voting for him - because they like his message.

Commentators are saying Obama is winning the African American vote because he is a black man - because his father was black. Obama’s mother was white. So, conversely, he is also a white man winning the African American vote.

From my viewpoint - he is an American running for President.

A little variation here - but can anyone tell me the reason the media has dropped the ball on Hillary’s financial disclosure? She’s holding out til after she gets the nomination?? What kind of disclosure is that!! come on guys, don’t let her get away with that!

And, no one on CNN is talking about this!

I have to say the one thing that does concern me is this game with ethnic background. I am told that Mr. Obama is of mixed decent, (African and White European) but you never here that. I would think that it is an uniting influence, but my cynical side says we don’t here about it because it is not good politics. We need less politicians and more real people who care. Obviously, it doesn’t matter the color or the gender, same old game, same old promises, and more spending, out of control. I listen to the debates, and I listen to the so-called experts. When are we going to focus on real answers to real questions? How are the politicians going to pay for all these promises?

Roland - Excellent analysis and thought-positioning on this pertinent scenario, which by the way, we believe could have been simmered down with good strategic planning (with all due respect, Tavis!). We wouldn’t call a meeting whose impact could be of a great magnitude (either way) had we suspected the ramification of bad timing due to such an historic and unique presidential elections.

Obama should stay the course and, at the same time, align the audience and hosts on considering the position of all candidates. This isn’t about “being there for Black America when the request is made”; it’s about breaking the pattern of bad timing. If he’s going to run the most powerful country in the world, we shouldn’t be selfish with request of having Obama participate at every single meeting we deem important.

The race is not over until he arrives to 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue! So, he should be focused with his plan, while taking all people with him through alternate solutions - whether we like it or not.

Watch out on sending Michelle Obama. It could send a bad message to the women, if indeed the sending is regarded as “having a female counter your female opponent”; remember the statement he made to Clinton in New Hampshire? “.. you are likeable enough..”; it may have been the key point shifting female votes to Clinton in NH. All women want, right now, is to consider Clinton as a PRESIDENTIAL candidate NOT as a FEMALE presidential candidate; same analogical cry for most blacks in regards to Obama. And this is a suitable perspective if he’s going to attempt to re-unite all in America. So, sending his wife, Michelle, may send a misconstrued message.

Interesting note, Roland! Looking forward to seeing Obama’s approach on this.

- Alain Adunagow (Irvine, California)

Roland,

I love your skillful way of getting the best out of bloggers. You hit an emotional button with black america with the Tavis State of the Black Union Debate. Bravo.
However if there is no fear of being the Black Candidate then he should stop in for a couple of hours as the Candidate. John McCain is clearly the Republican Candidate stopping in and Barack and Hillary would be the Democratic Candidates dropping by. At the end of the day all candidates should address this group. The Candidates have addressed the Unions, Teachers,Conservatives,Liberals,Moderates so on and so on. So treat this just like any drive by candidate stop. You can’t have it both ways. Barack wants to be black when it’s convient. What if Hillary ask all whites to vote for her,black folks would be outraged(I am black). Yes the event is about the ills of black folk, but if you treat it like any other event, maybe Barack will get treated just as the Candidate.

Roland,
You are exactly right!!! I wish black folks especially could get this through their head. The race for the White House has to do with broad apeal. As I have been out on the street campaigning for Obama, I’ve had white people tell me that they will support Obama, but that he should stay away from a particularly outspoken leader with the initials A.S., because she saw him as a racist. We need to understand that Barack has to get to the white house first, and then he can be effective. I love Tavis Smiley, but it is ridiculous to think that Obama could and should show up at every “black event”. He is the underdog and he has to be out on the streets to court votes.

And I also agree with your comment tonight as to Clinton’s dismissal of state’s she lost. Saying Obama won Lousiana because of black’s when there are just as many white people that live in Lousiana, notwithstanding many blacks were displaced due to Katrina. But also for the Clinton supporters that campaigned for her and voted for her in states she lost to not represent the electorate is absurb and shows that this election is about her, not America and certainly not the women’s movement.

Listen,

I have heard enough of Obama’s rehtoric. Why doesn’t anybody press him (Obama) on the issues, which is what he shoud be running on. I hate to break it to you guys but Obama’s campaign BS on hope, change, new direction and I can get everybody together just doesn’t cut it. Hope ain’t gone a pay the rent, change ain’t gone a get me a decent job and a new direction to where? maybe getting everybody together he might be able to get everybody to pitch in for my medical bills. So, please, Obama, what have you really got.

By the way, Roland everytime something positive or worth while is said about Hillary, you come across like it’s an attack on Obama. Take it easy and count to 10 before you comment.

You guys should know how politics work, you ain’t going to change it. If Obama wins the nomination the Republicans are going to eat him alive.

I agree wholeheartedly. Pat in CA

Roland,

Thank you for your perspective on this issue and also your analysis during the television broadcasts. As an older, white female, with lower income and no college degree, I do not fit in any of the demographic stereotypes that are normally categorized to be a supporter for Barack Obama. I bring that up simply to make the point that many people get tired of so much of the analysis after a primary or caucus being about parsing everyone up into groups. This does not do service to anyone of any race or social economic level because it makes it seem as though everyone votes in a block. Instead, I thank you for trying to remind viewers (and other analysts) that many voters think for themselves and make personal decisions based on the issues that relate to us, and who we feel is speaking to us and how their ideas will change our lives and the course of this country. I appreciate how you always try to steer the conversation back to being more balanced. For example, when you pointed out one time that if we talk about Barack getting the “black vote which comprises 50% of the electorate in a given state, it’s important to remember that there is another 50% voting, too. I hope the Obama campaign utilizes the sound advice you offer in this piece. Lisa from California.

Roland,

First, I want to commend your radio show The Roland S. Martin Show, WVON 1690 in Chicago. The CNN simulcasts are fantastic, and a future RSM syndicated TV talk show is imminent.

I’m not sure what Sen. Obama would accomplish by attending the forum. If there was a compromise, he can be video conferenced into a panel (like Tavis does on his show sometimes) from Texas or Ohio.

It’s too bad the event was not planned for one of the battleground states, such as Ohio, Michigan, or Pennsylvania. Even Indiana, where Mr. Smiley attended college, could have been a reasonable venue since the primary is held on May 6. The Indiana primary could tip the scales one way or another, since I do believe Ohio, Texas, and Pennsylvania will not determine the race. The losing candidate in each one of those states will probably finish with over 40% of the vote and the winner under 60%, which is a virtual wash concerning the delegate distribution.

Keep up the good work. Will continue to listen to you on the Voice of the Nation (WVON).

P.S. What’s happening in New Mexico (D) and Washington (R)?

AWB

It seems to me that Hillary’s selection of Maggie Williams as campaign manager is nothing more than a desperate, crass, hypocritical attempt to garner more support from African-Americans by elevating one of them. With all due respect to Maggie, this move by the Clintons is classic Clintonesque street theatre and if anyone leaning toward Obama allows themselves to be influenced or taken-in by it, they are being played for fools by a pair of professional quick-change artists.

Granted, I’m seeing everything through the cold, calculated, duplicitous modus operandi of the Clintons who will say and do anything to get re-elected to a third term in the White House. But If Maggie Williams is such a capable campagn manager (perhaps she is) and if she and Hillary have been “friends for years,” (perhaps they have been) you need to question why it is that Hillary waited until Barack was eating her lunch to make Maggie her campaign manager.

I’ll tell you why, because Maggie is African-American and after Bill’s faux pas attacking Barack, Hillary had to do something clearly visible to try and take African-American votes away from Barack.

Make no mistake, Hillary is a political animal, nothing more or less than a shill for Bill - and her insurmountable negatives will cost Democrats this election if she’s nominated.

I hope sometime before these caucases and primary are over that someone will sit down and ask obama how he intends to make changes i keep hearing we want change and yes we can but so far have not heard what he will actually do

AmyG- Why is it o.k. for Obama to say those things but not for Bill Clinton to mention Jesse Jackson? That’s a double standerd if I ever heard one.He was refered to in the 90’s as the first Black president because he helped the blacks so much. Now, there is a black man running and noone wants to recall the good Bill Clinton did for all of us. Now he’s just the white guy and a racist. Hoe sad we have all forgotten so much.

Sean,

The reason nobody’s reporting that Oprah gave $100 million to Obama’s campaign is because she didn’t. She, like every other American, is limited under campaign finance laws to giving a maximum of $2,300. Now she did host an event at her house where a lot of people came and contributed that amount, but that’s hardly the same thing. Anyway, Obama has nearly 700,000 donors supporting him, and the average donation is less than $200. He doesn’t take money from PACs or lobbyists (Hillary Clinton does). He’s beholden to his donors, who are overwhelmingly average Americans. That’s a good thing. But nice try at creating an anti-Obama smear out of thin air.

I agree with Martin. As an African American, I think that Martin is right. Why waste his time attending this forum when what he says will be used against him as an African American canidate. As we can see the Clinton camp will dispatch BIll or someone else to discredit anything Obama says, or make it a race issue, which sickens me. If nothing else happens, I am just happy that Bill Clinton has been exposed for who he really is- a charistmatic manipulater, who likes Black folks when it suits him (and his wife).

Roland,

I agree with everything you said. Tavis is misusing the Covenant in such a way as to make it a shackle for Black politicians seeking national office. That was not the intent. Obama can

Those of us who want Obama to win, want him to spend his time where it is most beneficial. And that is not in Lousiana at a Tavis Smiley hosted event. Send Michelle! She’ll keep Clinton honest.

Roland,
Once again you are right. I am an avid watcher of CNN and watch your Political views and discussions with your fellow panalist, although they sometimes purplex me it is great to see you stand your ground and educate them. Tavis has a problem as do some of my Africian American Brothers and Sisters. Yes Obama is an Africian American, and what we need to realize, he is not just running to only support Black America or erase years of haterid. Here we go again with the “Crab in a Barrel Mentality” and as Willie Lynch told the Slave Masters, “if you keep them diveded you can and will always control them”. Barrack has to continue articulating his plan for ALL Americans, because in the end, we care about the same thing. We care about the economy, we care about our troops in Iraq, and we care about health care.

Tavis could have only been an Idiot to expect Obama to put his run for the Presidency announcement on hold to attend his first forum and once again, here he goes again with his foolist thoughts showing his true worth expecting the Canditate to once again attend his Forum when he has the momenton and is making strides to win the Democratic nomination. His concentration is now the March Primary where he has a Great chance to make history if he can win either Texas or Ohio.

Some of your Bloggers have no idea what this Race is about, it’s not a Black or White issue, yes Race will always play a part. Remember an Arfrican American is challangeing an Anglo Saxan Female for the most powerful leadreship position in the Free world. This is America, still a divided Country as Martin so elequently said “We should not be judged by the Color of our skin, but by the content of our Character” and that he has, that’s why he is running on Change.

Michelle will be a good representative for her husband and if Tavis has a problem with it, “He needs to grow up and get over it”. Obama is for the first time since the Kennedy era uniteing this Country in a way no one expected. In closing I have to say this, I am tired of Our people saying it is not time for a Black President, when will it be time and who will tell us when it’s time? Rosa Parks did not wait to be told, “it was time to sit in the front of the Bus”. She made a decission and carried it out, folks it is time for this country to have it’s First Black President or Woman President, may the best person win.

We need to start thinking for ourselves and not let others think for us. Sorry Tavis but you and Tom Joyner are wrong on this one. Recommendation: Have your Forum after the election

This is extremely poor timing on Tavis Smiley’s part. All of OBAMA’s time need to be spent ont the ground in Texas and Ohio, there is no smarter plan than that.

Tavis Smiley on the other hand in all of his commentaries on the Tom Joyner radio show in regards to Barack Obama really left a bad taste in my mouth in regards to his comments about Obama. The fortunate few who were able to get in through the radio lines were able to voice this sentiment as well.

For this reason and the previously stated, I think Barack Obama shoud definitely skip Tavis’ Forum.

Hillary on the other hand with the damage of Bill’s comments and Hillary showing her true colors with her comments and actions need to attend this forum to regain trust with the black community. Hillary continues to insist that all Barack’s supporters are blacks and that is simply not the case, but that in and of itself is another issue.

Barack should definitely skip this one……..

Mr Obama is running the the president of the United States of America not the president of black America, he has to go wherever he thinks will be beneficial to his national campaign. He doesn’t owe it to Tavis Smiley to be at his forum. Mrs Clinton is not going on his forum to solve black America’s problems. She is going to his forum to talk about black America’s issues, but more importantly for politcal benefits as she sees fit . None of the candidates are going somewhere just for fun. This is politics, its a serious game that has well thought out objectives. She will not go on the show if she doesn’t percieve a political benefit. Allow Mr Obama to do what he feels is right for his campaign. Judging from where he started off last year with Mrs Clinton being leaps ahead of him in national polls. I think I wouldn’t second guess his actions and tactics. Mr Obama has served black America since his left college, and he will continue to serve. Most importantly he is running a national campaign and trying to win the Democratic nomination.

Well Said. Obama should send his wife. He need to focus on TEXAS. And Travis has problem with that, then he need to grow up. Obama is a movement that has nothing to do with race but everything to do with unity. This is the reason no one in the history of US has done what he’s done. {a young man with two years of national fame beating the clinton machine}.

Martin is right, Obama should stay away. Besides it is time for more action and less talk. Sen Clinton is not doing well with the African American vote so its makes sense for her to be there. Hopefully Obama does not show.

Excellent analysis, Roland. I couldn’t agree more. Clinton must go and Obama must skip.

Tavis Smiley has gotten beside himself. The only thing that ever comes out of these “State of the Black Union” gatherings are bestselling books for Mr. Smiley, and a few You Tube clips from his panel of “friends”, who get together year after year to preach to the choir. The people who show up to those thingss aren’t the people who need to be there anyway. It’s the people who already agree with what the panel has to say. That’s why they showed up to begin with, to cheer on their favorite black “activists”, if we dare to use that term. I personally think it’s high time Tavis realizes he’s not as influential as he thinks. And his insistence that the candidates focus on “Black issues”, as if Black issues aren’t AMERICAN issues exposes his hypocracy. How can we on one hand demand to be treated as equal citizens and in the same breath demand a Presidential candidates speak solely to the things that affect only us? Does quality and affordable health care and education, economic stability not affect all of us? Barack doesn’t need to show up to that event to prove anything to me, and obviously not to the majority of African American voters. Tavis and his panel of friends who love to hear themselves speak can have a field day in New Orleans using the same format, same panel and same catch phrases to rile up audience members as they do year after year. Note to Tavis & friends: You DO NOT speak for Black America. We are individuals with our own perspectives, opinions and ideals. We are independent thinkers who embrace the hope for a new day in this country, a break from the norm. Get over yourselves!

Your assessment is correct, What does he gain by attending. Blacks are voting for him in a very overwhelming manner. These votes are being casted based on a campaign of change with no specifics. Blacks will vote for him no matter what he says or does not say. So again what does he have to gain. I honestly think Obama believes that he will get the black vote because he is black period. So why show up and be put under real pressure when specifics are asked for his positions.

I listened to Tom Joyner this morning and to Tavis commentary, and yes he did say that Sen. Clinton was the one who had agreed to attend and that the others (Obama, McCain, Huckabee) had not agreed but he hoped they would. I always listen to what he has to say and I normally agree with him about black issues and their importance. But it seems to me he is speaking as an activist. He has no idea about political strategy. the Clintons have already tried to marginalize obama into simply the black candidate. Thank God it didnt work after S Carolina. This plays right into Sen. Clintons hands. I listen to a lot of Barack’s speeches and he speaks about black issues all the time to the extent that he is not trying to run for president of just black people. I also feel that even if he doesnt address issues as much as someone as Tavis may want him to he will do substantially more that any other candidiate has ever done, includint Bill Clinton. Tavis needs to fall back because Barack Obama is not Jesse Jackson or Al Sharpton and its because of this that he has gotten as far in this race as he has. Tavis does not speak for black america because its clear that we have spoken given Obamas support in the black community (over 80%) thus far) and it seems as if Tavis is implying that he doesnt deserve this and I dont think its fair. I think sending Michelle would be an excellent idea because quite frankly he has more important things to do (and im saying that as a very progressive minded black man) if he wants to win, and a win is within his reach. I am a community organizing and canvassing for Obama here in Dallas and we have a lot of work to do so that should be his focus

You all seem like this has become a large “CULT” for Obama. He has become a “GREAT FILIBUSTER”.and 80 percent of you have bought it. So if he is elected, which I doubt, he owes you nothing. How can you trust someone who has befriended someone after they have campaigned for you and raised money. If he cannot be loyal to them then who can he be loyal to. His speeches are “AMATUERISH” at best. All he says is “HOPE”. That can mean anything to many people. He is yet to define anything that he has said. No specifics about anything that he talks about. What has happened to ACCOUNTABILITY? When did we as a people stop holding elected officials to “PLANS TO ACCOMPLISH PROGRAMS”. I cannot believe that WE have REGRESSED and will accept anything just to have a ‘BLACK MAN and WIFE” in the White House. What are his Plans for the Future for all of us besides “HOPE”?

It saddens me to see how you all have trashed Travis Smiley for Obama. At least we can see some of the things that Travis has accomplished and trying to accomplished. How dare you speak badly about the Clinton’s. He accomplished a lot during his administration. He explained his programs and how he was going to implement them. Hillary has done nothing to you. She wants to do something for this country and she has explained how she will accomplish it.
In a Debate, he starts out and then he goes off in left field. He cannot stick to the question. Incidentally, he does not want to debate her because he needs the “WHITE MEN” in his campaign to TUTOR him on the issues.

His Health Plan is awful. He said it is centered around the children. My children had Health Insurance because my husband and I both worked and all of us were covered on both plans. With his plan, it being centered around the childen, who will pay for it? I know the parents will pay for it, but what about the parents, grandparents, aunts, uncles,poor etc? Stop look and listen. If he is not saying anything now, he will not say anything when he gets in the WHITE HOUSE.

I know when I have run for position in the National Organization I am affialated with, I gave them specific information as to how I plan to do my job. I might add, NO ONE HAD TO TUTOR ME.

What has happened to “YOUNG GIFTED AND BLACK”. He is gifted alright, but not accountable. He can speak well but where is the substance. Remember to put “‘NO MAN BEFORE GOD”. STOP accepting his “HOPE” message and ask him how he plans to accomplish it. Ask him about his Health Plan, Economy, Iraq, Taxes, Jobs, Housing Problem, Gobal Warming, etc. You have that right. Ask both of them those questions and listen, listen to their answers. Listen for the substance so you can hold both of them accountable. You also have the right to want to know what he plans to do “for you”. Don’t give anyone a BLANK CHECK.

Please shut him up about not voting for the WAR? I was not a US Senator and nor was he. Get over it. That dead horse has already been beaten. As the song goes “What have you done FOR ME lately”. He won the “Red State” Caucuses” they will be Red in November. Republicans crossed over to eliminate Hillary. They did that in Decatur, Georgia to eliminate Cynthia McKinney. It worked.

I do not feel that Michelle should stand in for him at Travis’ Forum. If the invitation was extended to the candidates, he should not send a representative. Michelle is not running for President. Remember “ACCOUNTABILITY, ACCOUNTABILITY, ACCOUNTABILITY should be OUR SLOGAN”.

I absolutely agree with you Roland! It serves no good purpose for Barack Obama to attend a meaningless State of the Black Union event that only rehashes the problems we already know about without offering any substantive solutions to the problems.

They should invite Bill Cosby. He does pretty well focusing on problems with no solutions. He is a perfect fit.

Tavis is redundant.

As a black woman in my late 50’s, I am embarassed at how easy it was for black folks to turn their backs on the Clintons who instilled such hope & respect in our Community during his Presidency. Even after leaving office, where did he choose to set up his office? , HARLEM. Does anyone think that Obama would even be caught walking the streets of Harlem, unless its to get votes?. I am saddened that because this man is black, he has been annointed as our Savoir even though he has done nothing to prove that. No Politician has been more dedicated to our Community than the Clintons, & to watch & see how they slink off to jump on Obama’s wagon is discouraging. Let me be clear & bring some reality to what I see happening in November if Obama wins the Nominee.

There is no way he will stand the test of the Republicans & Karl Rove. They will eat him alive & spit him out like wet tobacco. While on the other hand The Republicans have tried for decades to topple & destroy Mrs. Clintons, & have yet to make a dent in shaking her. “That is strenght !, & I’m very proud to be a woman who admires the kind of strength Mrs. Clinton so often exhibited.
I am not saying black people should not be proud of Mr. Obama’s accomplisment, but they should spend some time thinking with their heads & not their hearts to look at the BIG PICTURE & that is what they are not doing. Everyone is hopping around all gleeful like a 16y.o.falling in love for the first time & treating him like THE COMING, & that fact is not lost on Mr. Obama. He relishes in the Star Treatment. I do believe the glove treatment he has gotten from those in the Media made him bold enough to be arrogant & condescending in his references to Mrs. CLinton, knowing full well he will be pardoned by that same Media. The Media has made the atmosphere around the campaigns the most devisive & negative to even tolerate.
=========================================

Roland, I have often watched you on CNN and wondered just what you were all about. My impression has been that you are a Clinton supporter. Nevertheless, I agree with you on this point.
Obama should send his wife and big apologies. He needs Ohio and Texas far more than he needs to pacify a pouting Tavis Smiley. Tavis only wants to incite black folks and stay in the lime light. He is really having a hard time with Senator Obama being in the forefront these days. Tavis, what you have done with your previous Covenants have served well but did you really need to come out with this right now? He needs to get in a corner and either shut up or go on and be a man and support the race, like he advocates. To admonish whoever doesn’t show up at his forum is like a kid having a temper tantrum.
I am really disappointed in how he has behaved.
I believe that Tom Joyner knows he acting a fool, but doesn’t want to damage their relationship. But after all, he should remember who “his” listening audience consist of. I don’t hardly want to listen to them anymore.

YES WE CAN! AND WE WILL!!!!!!

He shouldn’t go………….(period) Smiley is giving the media something to run with at the wrong time. If Colin Power was running on the republican side It would really help Obama because the race issue would be void. The black vote would still go to Obama and the media could not say he is simply the black canidate. Colin Power was one of many who got us into this war in Iraq and missed his chance to help us get out of the war in Iraq. Also if Obama wasn’t in the race Hillary would have got most of the black vote and media would have said it’s because Bill Clinton was the first black president. “CHANGE WILL COME” VOTE OBAMA

Italian Americans represent 35 million americans. I guess are vote is insignificant. Well at least we won the world cup!!!!!!

Tavis Smiley needs to get over himself. This forum should have been held MONTHS ago to be relevant to the current election. Tavis is a day late and a dollar short - and that’s not anybody’s fault but his.

Roland-
You are on the money with this one! I am tired of Tom and Tavis. One would think that they would know better. I would love to see Michelle attend in his place and “deal” with Hillary.

Roland Martin,I wholeheartedly agree with you, and in sending Michelle Obama. This would be perfect, a perfect match with Hillary Clinton and as you said it would free up Obama’s precious time for him to meet more with the Latino voters. NO HE SHOULD NOT ATTEND THIS. HE SHOULD GRACIOUSLY DECLINE AND STAY ON THE CAMPAIGN PATH because it is here today and gone tomorrow and Travis’ forums will be every year.

I am tired of some folks trying to play God—— If Tavis wants to be concerned about black issues, which have been on the table for nearly five hundred years, he needs to find somewhere else to convention besides New Orleans. Black folks keep going to hear the music and party in the areas that have been revitalized. The black areas of New Orleans continue to be neglected, especially by the Black Elite, and the blacks who want to come home are still not likely to do so for years IF EVER. Meanwhile, many monied white folks are speculating and buying in formally black areas with the knowledge and anticipation that they will not be able to afford to come back. We all need to realize how important this election is for decent minded people who want a change from the past 16 years plus. Stop this jealousey and simple minded mess and “Keep Your Eyes on the Overall Prize”.

I agree with your analysis on Obama attending the meeting. Why should he go? Either way African Americans will support him regardless. By attending he will be faced with tough questions and people will expect specific answers. By attending he will show that he is not ready for the rough and tumble ways of Washington and world politics. Let’s face it folks he is an acceptable candidate to the masses. He is not taking a real position so he can avoid real criticism by the people. No doubt he may be able to bring people together with this touchy feely approach, but how will he react when there is a true crises in the country or congress is pushing back on the policies that he is trying to establish. In my opinion he is not seasoned enough to lead this country. The Presidency is not a job to make people to feel good, you have to make tough choices that will benefit the country. Everyone will not agree with you, but you have to show strong leadership and not rely on being popular. I cannot tell anyone what he has done for the state of Illinois as he has not proven himself. Frankly, I think he is just riding the wave of being a popular person from the Senate elections. The man has not proven himself able to handle the serious problems of the world like a Colin Powell or Condi Rice. If he had a longer track record like 2 terms in the Senate, I think he would be a bit more credible. The true test of his abilities will be shown if he is not the nominee and is asked to run as Vice President. If he declines, It will show that he was not ready to handle the big time. By serving as VP he will develop into a more politically astute person that will be capable of leading our country. As a result of his lack of experience, he will be forced to appoint folks that will run the government for him. We know where that strategy will lead (Bush andministration)

Finally, let’s not hate on Tavis for making his choice. Voting is a personal matter and people should be allowed to chose who they like regardless of the persons race. Voting for Obama based on the theory that “it is our turn: is just plain silly.