Welcome, Campbell! Great to see you anchoring tonight!

Welcome Campbell. Obama's speech will probably never change the minds of the people who aren't voting for him. I think he just has to go forward and keep talking about the issues. That's all he can really do.

here we go, open the floodgates for the speech comments!!!

I am a white 55 yr. old woman who grew up in the South. I grew up hearing my relitives throw around racial slurs whenever the occation arose to use them. I had relitives in Georgia who's kids weren't allowed to watch Sesame Street because there were black people on it.
Obama is no more responsible for what his Pastor said as I would be for what my Aunts and Uncles said. He has said that he disagrees with his pastor's words, I understand, just as I disagreed with my racist relitives, but could I turn my back on them? No.
I think Obama has taken the high road again.
Katt
Citrus County, FL.

oh yea, gergen right at the beginning...thats a good sign. good to see cambell teaming with erica tonight...gotta love the ladies

What a excellent speech Barack Obama gave today.

Campbell ! It so good to see you sitting in!

Thank you Katt, I agree 100%

Hi Campbell! Glad to see you anchoring tonight's show. I agree with you, Obama's speech was daring. We tend to just see the soundbites of the bad things Wright said but how about the good things he said that inspired Obama? We never see those soundbites.

I was so absolutely impressed with Obama's speech today. The US need someone who will take a tough situation head on.

Katt, the world needs more open and fair minded individuals like you.

Campbell,
Love your work on the Election Center. Glad to have you subbing on 360. Can't wait to see your new show. Hopefully it'll be on soon.

Cynthia, Ga.

There was no full disclosure or high road taken by Obama today
because on Friday he said the completely opposite of what he
says today. His speech was motivated as a forced political
response to prevent a fatal blow to his presidential ambitions.

Obama now admits that he was in the pews when some of the
statements were made. Nice how he changes his tune mid scandal.
He gave an interview with FOX News where he stated
that had he been in the pews and heard any of these statements,
he would have left the church and never gone back.

Also, something that bothers me about his speech is that
he seeks to loop in Hillary's campaign for playing race card:

We can pounce on some gaffe by a Hillary supporter as evidence
that she’s playing the race card . . .Or, at this moment, in
this election, we can come together and say, “Not this time."

Last week Obama DID POUNCE on Hillary Supporter on all Major
News networks!!!!

Sorry, I did vote for Obama in CA now I won't – I will vote for
either Hillary or McCain because Obama LIED (as described above).

Mr, Anderson
While the comments by the pastor where harsh, they where more of a disappointment than hatred. Today we heard what I would say was the most real and best State of the Union Address in this country in the last 8 or more years. I served in the military beside people with wide variety of differences. We do not focus on them but on the things we have in common. We fight that we all may have a better life. ALL! of US

American Soldier

Obama was not only brave in his comments but completely right.

What was daring about what Obama's speech today? Apologized for his pastor? Remember, watch the videos everyone in the church was clapping to Pastor Wright's racial sermons. If he wanted to bridge the gap he should have made a stand, gotten up from his church seat with his family and left. That would have sent a message. But he didn't. For 20 years folks!

lol...cnn is hilarious...right after crowley says "the narrow soundbites", what does she do? shows another two second sound bite....it never ends...

He defends Wright to the enth degree, but was willing to chastise Gerelding Ferraro for much less. He lacks character.

I thought that speech was brilliant as well. Let’s unite the people.

Obama has given great speeches since the start. The issue here is on Friday when he made his rounds on all of the news networks including CNN he said he did not know. Now today he says he does. sounds like the same politicain to me!!!!!!

BE KIND. WHY! OBAMA KNEW HIS PASTORS HATEFULNESS TOWARDS AMERICA. HIS OVER GLORIFIED SPEECH DIDN'T REPAIR ANYTHING! SORRY NOT IMPRESSED.

Campbell – I dont understand where people who have said that barack lied and now admitted he was in the pews when Rev Wright gave those speeches that we have seen over and over on TV had their heads – Were they underwater when Barack was speaking?
NOWHERE DID OBAMA say he heard THOSE speeches – He did say he heard things that he didnt agree with , but he NEVER said he heard THOSE remarks – just goes to show people hear only what they want to hear.
-

good evening, everyone

Unfortuantly this is probably going to be a huge factor in getting voters if he becomes the democratic presedential canidate. No matter how much this topic will be talked about, it wont go away. People will always be concious of race in this country too much to not talk about this.

Obama has shown his true color and it's an old shade from the 60s and 70s. He had the chance to take us forward and, instead, has taken us backwards to a battleground that does not solve problems. He is a divider not a uniter. He does not transcend race.

The speech was "way above what we are used to" because it was more of a lecture on race and not a response to the concerns voters have. This is his strength. Can you imagine the difference if it had been a question and answer session?

David, you are so clearly an Obama fan. Please try to be more objective.

Your comment is awaiting moderation.
Come on folks at CNN! Why was this an historic day? While watching Larry King Live (he's out of course hosted by Wolf) I heard a new term "delayed Black Slave Syndrone." Oh no I can't believe this! Will we now be required to reim burse all black America! Obama did nothing today except attempt to apologize for his rasist friend and pastor. Why was it stated on Wolf's panel that White American's are too sensitive about what was said about White Americans and America as a country? Let's stop walking on egg shells and speak the truth. Blacks are allowed to say anything and Whites must be sensitive to them. Gee!

After watching Barack's speech today, I can see him speaking with world leaders and receiving much respect for our country. His pure and humble spirit is what is needed in the world in which we live today, the whole world is ready for change and Barack can bring it to us if we allow him to do so

Did he pen the speech himself this time around?

Concerned American,
This was not an excuse for his Pastor as much as a reality check that we all need.... the idea that these issues have been there boiling under the surface. And if we don't move past them we will become divided

Hi Erica,
Looking forward to the Ali Velshi piece.

The speech was great, I just hope people actually listen to the words and put aside their anger and hate for a brief moment!

To those posting angry comments, I want you to think about just how angry you are. Then remember, that things that happened to young black men in the 50?s and 60?s fighting for equal rights, being beaten, hosed down, spit on and publically shamed. Now to those who ABSOLUTELY refuse to understand why Barack did not disown, a man who brought Christ to his life, and who he had experienced in a better light, ask yourself this. If you are that angry over words, imagine how angry Wright must be considering he felt the PHYSICAL PAIN of racism. What gives you more right to be more angry, than Wright! I do not agree with Wright, nor do I hate him for his comments, but I understand! That is what Barack is trying to have you realize. He did not make those comments, but he understands where they come from! Stop the hate, and start thinking of what you can do to solve the problem!

Aloha Campbell, The Obama debacle is still unsettled in my book. Early in the campaign he didn't raise his hand for the national anthem...though Clinton and Richardson were shown doing so. I know he made some comment about it, but any person who attends a church damning this country is, in my mind, a bit short on the concept of unity. I was leaning towards him, but have now changed my mind. His speech did not address the hate...that bothers me way too much. Normally these things don't get to me, but the concept of God "damning" America is just way out of line for a person who wises to lead this country. You can bet that this sort of rhetoric is going to continue, I vision the Republicans pouring over hours of tapes as we speak! Can't pass this as "just words" for sure.

The only thing Obama managed to do is divert the conversation from his supposed “judgment� to race. Where was his judgment when he just sat there and said “amen� to everything Wright said?

There's a saying "It's not what happens to you, it's how you handle what happens to you." I applaud Mr. Obama for his speech...it was right on! In the beginning, I thought he shouldn't have to defend himself. But it was clear he had to speak out. He turned a negative into a positive. He scored a lot of points with me tonight. I'm a Clinton supporter, and I'm saying this.

People condeming Obama's speech are clearly stuck in the past. We all have friends, family, loved ones that have said things we total disagree with, yet we throw stones as if everything that has come out our mouth's has been loving, kind and rid of sterotype.

Rush Limbaugh constantly says ridiculeous stuff, yet CNN and others constantly quote him , listen to him day after day. Why are you all not disowned him? Why have you all not disowned Bush for lying? Come on people, be consistent, you are not fooling anybody.

Hi Erica! Enjoyed your blog entry today!

Good Evening everyone..and Erica!!
I really don't see how anyone can bash the speech he gave today..it was beautifully done and covered a lot. Obama is to be commended for saying what he did, and I believe he will unite your country and be a great leader.

He's a great man, you are lucky to have him running for office for your country!

It's clear to me that the Hillary camp released the video of Obama's minister, though of course they will deny it.

Now that Hillary's White House papers have been released, we'll find out what she has been hiding. Clearly she would have released these documents (and her tax returns) earlier if they would have benefited her campaign.

It's so wonderful to see a candidate like Obama that feels like a community organizer and runs a positive campaign.

On The Political Ticker Blog today I read the most hateful Obama speech from supposed "democrats" that I had heard all day and I spent the majority of the day listening to Conservative radio!!!

Why don't Clinton supporters understand that Clinton has no viable way to win this election without the Superdelegates and that their hateful rhetoric makes them supporters of McCain by default......How can you hate Obama so much (Or love Hillary so much) that you are willing to support McCain??

This speech was amazing and only those most blinded by hate, apparently both "liberals" and conservatives would not be able to see it.

Jennifer, we have to give Ali props for coming back in tonight - he's in for John Roberys this week on "American Morning"...hopefully he snuck a nap in this afternoon!

I'm fascinated by the economy these days, but more from the perspective of how this trickles down to all of us worker bees. It's scary and outrageous at times.

Hi Erica

I am curious as to the dates of these sermons. Are they from the last two years or from 20 years ago. Pastors are people too and they can go astray from the word of God. Maybe this man has not saying these things for 20 years. I don't know I do not have 20 years of his sermons to know for sure. None of us do.

Concerned American,
Identify yourself!
Whites are more than able to say anything they want and blacks can say anything they want.....What we saw today is reality and I am white. the idea that you can't see past your own hatred is the problem. We all have our issues and we need to deal with them.

Barack did not lie, he said...

He did not hear the comments on tv or circulating on you tube..

he had heard some controversial comments, from Wright before....

I guess now you want to know what those comments were, huh!

I'm still studing the speech. As all great speeches need is a time to reflect.

I think a spiritual leader should NEVER say something that puts down someone else. It just goes against any faith! It makes me doubt the pastors faithfulness to his faith!

im switching my vote from obamo to clinton – sorry i just lost the faith

I agree with Bay Buchanan and Kat. Obama is a dignified man.

We all have crazy relatives and friends. We still choose to have them in our lives regardless. He chose to take a stand today and garnered more respect as the right man for this job.

I would rather President Obama take a stand and continue to embrace the Pastor, than to pander to voters while on his knees.

I have heard the following argument in regards to Obama’s situation with Rev. Wright. “Who among us has not known someone who has said a racist remark at times?� And they ask if we do know someone, perhaps a family member, have we disavowed them - doubtfully? This is a hollow argument. Yes, I have known friends and family members to make comments I thought were absolutely disgusting throughout my life. And upon hearing these comments, I - in no certain terms - told them that I did not EVER want to hear garbage like that again and if I did hear it again, they were no longer a friend of mine. Now that is what MOST people would do upon hearing such filth. I believe this in my heart and I believe it would be an easy decision for most. However, Obama sat and listened to this pollution for 20+ years. What kind of judgment is this? People talk about how inspired they are by the way he speaks. And he does speak extremely well. However, you have to look beyond how he speaks and what he says – and look at what he does. ACTIONS are what matter. And his ACTION was to stay in that church filled with hate speech week after week for twenty years. Now again, I ask you all, is that proper judgment?

Some people are trying to directly associate Wright's hate speech with Obama. They should not be doing this. They should be referring to Obama’s poor decision making in staying in that church for two decades. Again, Obama's judgment to stay and listen to that hate speech for 20+ years is what should be questioned. Please, let's get it straight when trying to defend the man. Defend his decision making … which you cannot do because it is flawed. He, the one of self-proclaimed sound judgment made one of the worst decisions of his life. And he refuses to repudiate it.

And another thing, no candidate is completely responsible for what their community of advisors say. That is ridiculous. However, Obama is responsible for listening to what amounts to pure hate speech for the last twenty years sitting in that church. He admitted as much today when he said he was in the church on many occasions hearing such filth that he claimed he disagreed with. If he disagreed with it, he should have not gone back week after week. That is the judgment call that he made and he has to live with. He could have easily chosen a church without such vile words coming from the pulpit. I would have switched churches. It is not a big deal to switch churches ... a rather easy process. This has nothing to do with "race" and a lot of the people are saying that we who are speaking against Obama and this situation are racist. How wrong is that? Is anybody who disagrees with Obama a racist? Is anyone who is not simply captured by his magnificent way of speaking a racist? I don't think so. He gave a great speech today - a very inspiring speech, but it showed in clear detail his poor judgment. And I believe it also will cost him votes in Pennsylvania (my birth state) because most people that I know (white or black) would have left such a church and moved on to a place with a more inclusive message. So, I make my case that disagreeing with his judgment and at the same time enjoying a good speech are possible. But it does not make his decision right. It makes his judgment and decision absolutely 100% wrong. He should not have stayed at that church.

"In a democracy, the people get the government they deserve".

That statement is still so true. I think this is a critical time for our country. Do we hold onto the old fears and resentments around race? Or are we ready to let those deep-seated things go by the wayside, and focus on moving ahead? How long can we rant and rage about the murder of Emmett Till and the Ku Klux Klan? How angry will we continue to be about busing and affirmative action?

Each of us has to make a conscious decision to stay in the past OR to move forward and focus on the things that MATTER.. like fixing our health care system, msking the right moves to minimize the recession... getting out of a trillion-dollar war that we will NEVER win... making sure our kids get a good education.. fixing the immigration problems.

I think Barack Obama understands both sides. He IS both sides, and I believe he can bring this country together. He didn't condone what Rev Wright said... in fact, he condemned the hate and anger. Read the transcript of his speech, and make an informed, objective decision WITHOUT the hate, anger and preconceived notions.

I'm ready to move forward. Are you? We can't afford another 8 years of a Republican administration or the kind of Supreme Court a republican administration would put in place. If that happens, we will become a third-world country where the middle-class is so weak as to be almost non-existent. Lou Dobbs is on the exact right point.

I've traveled all over this world. There is no place better than the United States. Our strength is second to none.

The only thing we have to fear is OURSELVES. Let's focus on the right things so we can get the government we deserve.

@Dick Dumas,San Diego CA: I totally agree with you. Obama never said he heard the rantings from the soundbites played over and over. He just said he has disagreed at times with things Wright had said.

What about the Louis Farrakhan Lifetime Achievement Award given by Obama's church? That would make me quit any institution that I was a member of especially if I was a public servant who depends on voters to get a job. What was Senator Obama thinking when this anti-Semite, etc., Farrakhan, was given this award???? Obama does not mention this incident in his speech today...why????

This is not the first time we’ve heard preachers talking about the ways in which God has damned us. Rev. Fallwell famously claimed that God damned us for gays, pagans, abortionists and feminists in the 9/11 terrorist attacks. When a white minister talks about the ways God damns us, he gets invited to the White House and conservative talk shows.

There are very few in the national political arena who are bold enough or gifted enough to deliver on such difficult issues. Senator Obama has demonstrated the ability to elevate the dialogue in a way that no other candidate has.

Minou, I couldn't agree with you more.

Tucker Carlson on MSNBC repeatedly brought up Rev. Wright sermoning on how AIDS is a white conspiracy against the blacks. Carlson's stance is this means Obama should remounce Wright.

Courage is what leadership is about. Evil people will hate Obama for shining a light on their prejudice, and this will be a test of America. Do we have the courage to stand up for the principles on which our nation were founded? ALL MEN CREATED EQUAL.

Should I hold Senator Obama responsible for the comments of this minister, his minister? I do. Why? Because Senator Obama selected this minister to speak to his children. This is the man Senator Obama selected to teach morals and a vision of the world to his children. I would assume that Senator Obama's children are as dear to him as anything on this earth. I assume, like all parents, that he seeks to guide them and install in them certain virtues and values. I assume that he made some effort to select a minister he felt shared his views. Senator Obama decided that this man should be an important symbol and guide for his children. I would like to ask Senator Obama if these are the views that you want your children to have? If not, why did you bring them to this church? How could you select such a man to give religious guidance to your children? Or in your heart are these the views you and your wife want your children to have>

Hi Campbell,
I am always reading and watching everything on the campaign. I watch this show everynight sometimes two times a night. Obama has said and done everything that he can do distance himself from this minister and has Katt has said, you cannot be blamed for what your relatives say.
Obama has address this, now it is TIME for not only reporters but also the american public to move on. We will never always agree with what each person says or does and therefore, this has gone way to long.
It is MORE than time to move on. We need to be talking about the more important things, healthcare, the economy, how he plans to get our troops out of the stupid and senseless war.
Also, someone needs to ask Hillary, what does her pastor/church say? I have not heard one word about her beliefs, but then after what "slick willy" did in the white house, I think it is safe to assume that she does not have a church. But to be fair...does she have a church or a spirtual basis? And why is this is still going on with Barack and not on what Geraldine Ferraro had to say?
Is that Hillary and Bill whinned so much about the media bias against her and against her being a woman, that the media has decided to continue this attack on Barack?
I will continue to back Obama no matter what is said about this issue.

The speech was great, I just hope people actually listen to the words and put aside their anger and hate for a brief moment!

To those posting angry comments, I want you to think about just how angry you are.

Then remember, that things that happened to young black men in the 50?s and 60?s fighting for equal rights, being beaten, hosed down, spit on and publically shamed.

Now to those who ABSOLUTELY refuse to understand why Barack did not disown, a man who brought Christ to his life, and who he had experienced in a better light, ask yourself this.

If you are that angry over words, imagine how angry Wright must be considering he felt the PHYSICAL PAIN of racism.

What gives you more right to be more angry, than Wright!

I do not agree with Wright, nor do I hate him for his comments, but I understand!

That is what Barack is trying to have you realize. He did not make those comments, but he understands where they come from! Stop the hate, and start thinking of what you can do to solve the problem!

When will America see the fraud of the candidacy of Barracl Obama?
He is an opportunistic junior senator of little experience who is full well taking advantage of the race card. His speech brilliant? Delivering the expected is not brilliant, it is pedestrian. He has no resume so he continually blurs the with racial issues. He was a member of the church for 20 years. When during that time did he express moral outrage? He loves to declare his opposition to the Irag war as the mantle of his candidacy, so why did he not express that same moral outrage for this minister? He has only done so now because he was forced to. Wake up America and smell the roses, this candidate is not the real deal.

In regards to Rev. Wrights's remarks. This is the reason why all of one thing is not good. All black church, all white church, all black social group, all white social group, etc. You get a sense of responsible communication about sensitive issues. If you do not have a diverse group of friends, working partners, church members, etc. You are prone to this type of one sided opinions.

For Baye Buchanan to call Obama a "class act", now that's a breakthrough! Good for her.

Is this the CHANGE we were HOPE-ing for?

Future President Obama's speech today was the most compelling, moving discussion on race relations in America since Dr. King's I Have A Dream speech almost 45 years ago.

How many of us have gotten up and walked out of our job or a gathering when a sick racial joke was said. It happens all the time

As for the pastor he needs to be held accountable for his comments as a preachers wife I was not only caught off gaurd but I have heard things of this nature before.

We pay attention to them and that gives them power. Rev. Wright should never have condemmed anyone let alone the US gov't. The Bible teaches to love thy neighbor and to forgive. That is what Obama emboddies.

I think people need to understand that everyone was upset because Obama stated that the pastor was his MENTOR, and now he doesn't agree with what he has to say or in his racist beliefs. Isn't a mentor just that? Someone to influence you and your life. How can someone who is half white sit in a congregation and listen to those comments without being upset with him and not allow it to change your relationship with him in those previous years?

future president...thats pushing it.

I can't believe how you journalist are swooning again because of his way with words – his action to stay in a church with such language is lost. I'm amazed at how one sided the coverage tonight has been. I watched the speech today and felt I was watching a very good spin doctor.

Hey Mary, how can you call Obama a divider? Examples please of how his speech today was divisive. I guess you just hear what you want to hear no matter what someone says.

Campbell, I'm personally glad Hilliary started crying about the media giving Sen. Obama a light ride. She has helped the media expose the true character of Sen. Obama in the most trying of times. He has surpassed every test of negativity given him with flying American colors! This is truly the type of character we need in the White House!!
He keeps his head in the darkest of times. When the world acts crazy against America, Sen. Obama will no doubt keep his head and come to the best resolve possible!! Thank you CNN for your continuing coverage!

Mr Obama's candidacy has been revealing

It is shocking to accept that Mr. Obama thinks it is ok that children can sit in this church and listen to such harsh statements about America.

His judgement is questionable and does not represent America

Marcos San Antonio, TX

Campell,

What struck me in this speech and the situation that led to it is the way that Obama shaped events that were forced upon him.

I can think of no greater qualification to be president than that.

Plus he quoted Faulkner.

Noice.

Please, please, please......Campbell missed an important question in the issue confronting the Obama campaign today in the race discussion. Please realize I am a registered independent. White, male, professional, mid-west region, 53 y.o. The question that should have been asked and that I would love to hear response from the candidate and the panel of experts........How does he explain the comments of his wife concerning "the first time she is proud of America" and the comments from his pastor. They sure seem that they might be related and certainly reflect issues behind fears that I have about the unknowns about this exciting candidate. I want to believe but have so many doubts. Thank you for your coverage, Dr. Jim Greer, Lexington, KY.

As a proud Muslim-American, who happens to be "brown", I think Barack's speech gives me the hope that all of us, Jews, Christians, Muslims and others, Whites, Blacks, Yellow and Browns. Democrats or Republicans, can, and will, all come together for the common good of America and the humanity at large.

How does our view of Martin Luther King change if he was exposed to that type of preaching since he was a procuct of the black church? It did not define MLK because we know him and what he accomplished. MLK rose above negative words he heard and the injustices he suffered to unite people. Barak Obama deserves the chance to define himself as King did in his own words.

Faith and religion is much more than Rovian political calculus applied to core social issues like abortion and gay marriage to deliver the most votes in contested southren states.

Wait a minute... On FRIDAY.. OBAMA said HE DID not know of ANYTHING of this sort or even REV. Wright to be this political volitile... NOW he admitts he DID know about it? Is anyone going to LOOK at the TAPES on FRIDAY? Or maybe its me. This is what SNL is talking about... Look at HOW these people (Pundents) are falling over SEN Obama's speech... He said he did not know on FRIDAY NIGHT, Now its another version... hmmm "Judgement" and "HOODWINKED"

Cambpell,
Why is the media, CNN, becoming increasingly negative re: Obama

I watched the speech and it was incredible in it's delivery in its depth. One of the interesting things about this speech that I think is missed is the fact that it is not a political speech as far as it panders to different audiences but more of an inspiration speech. He was forced into this speech and rather than pander to the white audience that his paster offended he approached the issue as a whole which is why I think he will be a uniter and not a divider if he becomes president of the United States. on the other hand, he took a serious risk delivering this speech and we'll see how it pays off in the coming primaries.

Are you kidding me? Senator Obama is held account for the deranged ramblings of his pastor and friend of twenty years, and he is able to divert the attention of our "professional media" by wanting to talk about race in America and not about the racism and anti-Americanism of his friend. The person he has chosen to associate with, fully knowing his views. It would be funny, if it wasn't so sad.

As I sat listening to Wolf fill in for Larry this evening I found myself getting frustrated hearing the debate regarding the racial divide. I'm pretty sure their exists empherical evidence given Barrack's delegate count that whites don't see it as a big issue. The comments made by the Senator's pastor were inexcusable and I for one don't want to hear Roland Martin telling us that we just don't understand the black church. If using the lords name in vain and damning the nation are acceptable religious practices in the black church then we may very well have reason to question the man poised to lead our damned nation forward! I am also of the opinion that any reference to oneself as anything other than "American" is devisive in and of itself. The last point I want to make is: blacks do not own the patent to poor... poor isn't a color. We've all heard the phrase "the truth shall set you free" but the real truth is "education" will set you free. We are on the verge of electing Senator Obama President of the United States. This should be a time of celebration not racist pandering. Yes, we've all had our struggles but let go of the past and embrace the future. God Bless the United States of America!

Campbell you look great. I just wanted to follow up on an exerpt that wrote on this show about a week ago where I asked what was going to happen in the realm of affirmative action if Obama becomes the Democratic nominee. I just wanted to commend the Senator for addressing that in his speach and putting it into context. I agree with Gergen, that as a better educated suburbanite the speach took root.

I am a white older male who voted for Obama. His speech on race today was inspirational. He has the unique ability to say the things that need to be said in the way few people can. I am proud to be his supporter.

I enjoy Bay Buchanan's input, but frequently disagree. I was so pleased to hear her say that Obama was a class act in not throwing Rev Whight under the bus. I agree.

Dave

Obama is not a Dr King. He is a Dr ? For the first time in my life, I will vote Republican if he is the nominee.

Their they go again. The tapes of Reverend Wright were not released by Hillary. They in fact were released by McCain supporter Sean Hannity,, or was it Bill O'Reilly

Obama thinking he could weather the Wright controversy said this last Saturday:

"But the sermons I've always hear were no different than the sermons you hear in many African-American churches. I had not heard him make such, what I consider to be objectionable remarks from the pulpit. Had I heard them while I was in church, I would have objected. Had that been the tenor of the church generally, I probably wouldn't be a member of the church." – Senator Barack Obama, 3/15/08

Obama after he got hold of reality on Wright's effect on his candidacy:

"Did I know him to be an occasionally fierce critic of American domestic and foreign policy? Of course. Did I ever hear him make remarks that could be considered controversial while I sat in church? Yes." – Senator Barack Obama, 3/18/08

What a difference a few days can make.

Welcome Campbell. Your coverage is great and I love to see your reports on CNN.

I am a 64 year old white woman. I have supported Obama for some time, since Edwards dropped out, but today I could not have been more happy with my choice.

This speech was so unbiased, so UNpolitical, and showed what an amazing concilitator this man can be.

He has the charisma of JFK and the common sense about the working man of FDR. He could not have come along at a better time for our country. We desperately need an ALL New Deal.

Barack Obama has the makings of becoming a truly great president.

It's good to know that finally there is a politician who is willing to take a stance on his beliefs and provide a candid view into the experiences that many African Americans face but keep locked behind closed doors.

Obama had the chance of a lifetime to distance himself from this radical minister and chose not to.

How dare Obama expect Americans to stand with him while he stands up for a radical racist pastor.

For Obama to ask Americans to stand with him would be like Hillary’s minister saying nasty things about blacks and praising the KKK leader.

Obama's church supports Farrakhan. This is serious and frightening.

If America needs a lecture on race, we better find someone with a little more credibility than Barack Obama. 20 years of attending and funding a racially divisive church speaks much louder than a politician running for office.

I am a young black Man. I am 20 years of age. In these short 20 Years i have seen many things. Obama is a man that stands for all of America and people should look at it through his eyes. We as Americans are all different. The black culture is not understood. The black church is a highly misunderstood place. It is the place of rejoicing and uplifting and there will be many Sunday mornings that will be hard on white America. the Black culture is one that is based on the heratige of slavery and is full of hate and anger.

Katt Morris – You are right on! The people who are hearing that Obama "lied" are people who don't want to hear what he actually said. It was a beautiful, heart-felt speech. Only those of us who know and are willing to face the reality of racism can understand it.

My problem with this issue he could of told the truth from the beginning, and said he was in church at the time instead of lying . So he has the ability nto lie about this what else is he hiding. Thought he was a different type of politician at first, now he looks just the same as the rest.

I am a 47 year old white female and even though I was offended by Rev. Wright's statements, I do not consider them an issue. I am more concerned about my sisters, both who lost jobs to out-sourcing and have struggled to find new employment. I am more concerned about the fact that because they lost their jobs, they don't have insurance. Let's get back to the real issues. Senator Obama addressed Rev. Wright's statements in a simple and honest manner. He has again reinforced to me that he is the one choice for President. He can bring people together and, if America let's him, he could do great things for this country. It's time for something new.

Someone should ask Obama why he has taken the side as as an Afrio American while his mother is White. Why doe he not say he is white also??
This would eleminate the race issue for him.

Ken Crawley Shelby, N. C.

I feel proud to be an American today, like Gergen say, someone finally treat us like intelligent people. Pretending racism does not exist is sticking your head in the sand. One thing is sure, if any one can bring this country together it is Obama. He has no intention of "disowning his white side any more than disowning his black side", plus his sister is part asian. He is truly the candidate of hope and change in America

Hi Anderson,

I think Barack was wonderful today – and it was one of those HISTORIC moments in the country – your thoughts are??????????

What a refreshing change! Senator Obama showed great courage in facing his critics. Playing the continous loop of the Rev. Wright's sound-bite is left only to the media to play up or play down. What a wonderful time it is to be an American. Senator Obama made me so proud to be an American. He has truly embraced the country with his sincerity and honesty. The only way this will continue to be a problem for him is because the media will make it daily news. It's time to move on and deal with the issues. No one is really interested in the ugly division of the party. We have enough problems trying to put this country back together. Stay focued! Stay on the issues! PLEASE. The media has not represented this story well. I really thought CNN was better than that. What about the rest of the story? What about the rest of the sermons. Just how stupid do you think we are.

He is a class act. If Mr. Obama loses, he won. The problem of race in this country is greater than a campaign or a presidency for that matter. In truth, it needed to be said. Maybe if we can overcome our difference's we can work together and solve our problems. I tell you, terrorist aren't targeting this group or that. The falling dollar doesn't only affect the blacks, whites, liberals....conservatives ..gays...or whatever group you can come up with. I think this whole discussion isn't even beginning to address the problems that America is facing at this juncture in history. And all we can talk about is race.......what was that about a people or a nation fighting against itself??????????

CNN is stoking the flames of racism with their exit poll dissections, magic voter screens and sound-bite loops. How do we get the press to stop this? I am really concerned.

I'm a 64 year old white male who was in the crowd on August 28, 1963, when Dr. King surprised us with his unforgettable "I Have A Dream" speech. Barack Obama is even more engaging. He is the greatest orator of our age, and he's just getting started. His Harvard education, combined with his teaching at the University of Chicago, perhaps the most intellectual school in the world, combined with his street experience, and, of course, the occasional Sunday at his free spirited church, have given us a Voice for the Age. Stop for a minute and think. Can you IMAGINE our impact on the world, with Barack Obama as President?

I respect Sen. Obama for not turning his back to his Minister. I do think, however, that to constantly listen to his radical comments about America and American foreign policy, even if there was one of those comments per year, shows a lack of judgement if one keeps attending to those services. I am a catholic, and I would would walk out of my church if I heard a radical comment like that during a religious service. Sen. Obama not only he did apparently not walk out of those services or church, but made the author of those service the person who married him and baptized his children. This indicates that we may not know or understand Senator Obama's fabric and true opinions of America or his approach to solve those problems.

Hi Cambell,

Everyone it seems is missing the "real issue" here. It's that he has been a member of the church for 20 years, it definately has influenced him, he is running for the highest office in the land and he cannot divorce himself from that.

He has now polarized the democratic electorate and I find Gergen's comments insulting. As an educated person of color I don't like it when people like him, Roland Martin, and others continue to divert and deflect from the real issue.

Even if Obama can secure the nomination the Repulicans will kill us in the fall and we will lose the White House.

Please stay on the real issue that this has raised, oh, and the fact that when Anderson interviewed him he said "he wasn't in the pew when any statements were made" and today he directly contradicted that and said that "he was in the pew". So he lied to Anderson and others that interviewed him.

Obama entered into this speech with a serious credibility problem and compounded that with this contradiction of what he has been saying over the past few days.

The democratic fracture is going to be great and I don't know if we will be able to heal enough to take the white house.

The only respectable thing for him to do is to resign from the race.

I listened to Senator Obama's speech this morning, and I was impressed with his integrity and candor. He is a decent man who deserves everyone's respect, regardless of party affiliation. That said, it is very unlikely that I will vote for him because of his liberal views and policies.

Well the rent has to be paid! Americans know that more than ever these days.

These last 3 panelist have finally captured the true essence of his speech!!!

Why wasn't the hatred addressed? Race, race, race....this was about hatred! You can try to excuse it with race....but it was hate!!

Regarding Roland Martin's comments gushingly complimenting Obama for putting it all out front with his meeting on Friday with the Chicago Sun Times:

Does he think we are stupid? The reason Obama did that (by the way, because it's coming up to bite him like everything else, he comes out to be honest about...puhleese) was so he could hide it under rock pile which is Wright.

He did this as a ploy so no one would notice it due to all the media and the American people ignoring it over the Wright fiasco taking over.

I really feel as a young African American supporter of Barack Obama that the media needs to let this issue with Pastor Wright die down once and for all. I think that its not Obama's place to have to always give these elaborate speeches because the Media has nothing else negative to say about Barack and feels he should explain his pastors action. When in all actuality, this is a prime example of why African American Pastors go off the way Rev Wright did because Obama ( the first Black President we're going to have) had to account for his fellow Black pastor's remarks, but not once did I hear anyone, the media, whites in america, FORCE with media pressure to give some speech explaining why Ferraro, however you spell her name, gave the statement she did. Again it goes back to how, clearly you all are being racist my forcing him to explain his PASTOR, and Hilary not even have to see a camera when someone on her campaign goes off at the mouth. Not to mention her campaign started early in the election with negativity. I feel that Baracks speech was more than enough, he should not disown his Pastor, he is a man of faith and any person who feels he should disown his pastor clearly doesnt know the true and living God that I and Barack Obama serves. If you poll the African American community, they wont agree 100 percent with all that Rev Wright said, but he surely had some truthful points. Like it or not. I've listened to some of the white males you've had who have gotten so hyper about Rev Wright, and they clearly represent the racist white men that Rev Wright is talking about. How Blacks have to always answer and prove everything to the White man who feels he is always right. We owe you NO explanation. We were brought into this country with chains, drowned in oceans, killed, inslaved, wounded. SO DONT YOU DARE ACT AS IF YOU KNOW WHERE WE COME FROM, RATHER THAN ACT, TRY TO GET TO KNOW US WITHIN AND OUR STRUGGLE. GET TO KNOW WHY WE ARE ANGRY, WE'RE SO UNDERSTANDING OF THE WHITE MAN AND HIS NEEDS BUT THE WHITE MAN ISNT SO UNDERSTANDING OF OUR NEEDS. Another example is how President Clinton cheated on Mrs Clinton, and lied to the government, those in high places and then was impeached because he lied. He was actually suppose to get jail time, but did that happen? NO. Also, Cnn said that John McCain isnt a natural US born citizen, so why is he even in the race. See how the white man gets the rules BENT and ERASED for him. God knows I love white people, and people of all races, but its time to stop hiding from the issues that no one has wanted to deal with for decades. Its time to get real, so we can move forward. Also, if you dont have Christ in your life, then you wouldnt understand where Barack Obama was coming from anyway. Thats all I have to say about it! : 0 )

I thought Obama's speech today was brilliant. In fact, as I looked around the conference room at my job, I noticed that people were piling in and listening and being really focused on what he had to say. I remember thinking, when was the last time people took a break from their jobs to listen to a candidate speak. I have been concerned, however that there is no or very little attention paid to Rev. John Hagee who recently endorsed McCain. Hagee has made many inflamatory comments about certain groups, including Catholics. Indeed people are comparing him to Farrakhan. Yet CNN (or any other new outlet for that matter) is the least bit concerned about him, his statements or his endorsement of McCain. McCain has refused to distance himself from Hagee and has not refused the endorsement or denounced Hagee's statements.

That so called man of God just handed the presidentcy of the USA to Obama. Americans will fall all over themselves trying to prove they are not racist. It will be interesting to see what happens when the worm turn.

I see no change with Obama, all is see is a lot of flip flops and lies. I will vote for Hillary.

I commend Barack Obama for standing up for what he belives in and not turning his back on Rev. Wright. I know Rev. Wright and he is nothing like the few seconds shown on TV every five minutes.

What will Hilary's next step be?

Although I love America, it is never going to be united. Barack is fighting for something that is impossible to achieve. Our country is in dire straits, yet we argue about something a pastor stated. Nothing the pastor said addresses the issues we face now. We need to let it go.

At best, people project their values and subjective views in their statements AND their questions. I am a white male and found Senator Obama's speech today to reflect uncommon character and profound sensibility and intelligence - unlike the typical political rhetoric and "pandering" that has become far too commonplace. ANYONE who wonders whether or not Mr. Obama "satisfied" the critics is merely projecting their disguised prejudice and ignorance. They are simply looking for justification to maintain their view of him. These people would NEVER have voted for Senator Obama had Rev. Wright never stirred this controversy. The question is, do they have the integrity and self-awareness to admit this fact. Thank you for the opportunity to weigh-in on this important moment in political history.

With today's speech, Obama manifested the leadership, vision, courage that the world needs during these challenging times – addressing his critics head-on regarding his former pastor, but also providing an sociological perspective of American race relations with honest dialogue, seemingly, without fear of political reprisals. These are tough issues that most politician wouldn't touch with a ten foot pole. America needs Obama, a becon of hope and honest discourse across party lines, more than he needs the presidency. I hope we don't drop the ball.

Barack Obama has not only impressed the American society but I would say everyone around the world with the speech he made today. This includes people from all walks of life. We need to hear more inspiring speeches like this. As a Canadian I would encourage this type of dialoque here to ensure we live in harmony amongst ourselves and with those of our friends in the USA.

Barack Obama has it in him to unite the country. The southern strategy of the Clintons is not going to work in this primary season. The southern strategy started by Richard Nixon may finally be put to rest.

Let us hope that we are finally ready to confront the issues that divide us and work on the issues that unites as a country. Winning by elimination doesn't create change. Splintering the party will weaken it in the long run. I do not see how Hillary can continue her campaign because the race card has been played and Obama just trumped Hillary's hand!

In grace, race has been approached with civility and sincerity from a man whose mind cries UNITY.

Barack Obama has unmasked American taboos with an openness of mind only few illuminated souls have succeeded to do.

Unfortunately some extreme right-wing conservatives will come out with more daggers to sap Obama's call for unity.
Sad. Isn't it ?

We can not have it both ways. Do we want separation of church and state? Then we cannot turn around and, say that we will be held responsibile for the actions and statements of those whom we are associated with within the church as our only way of thinking. What the pastor said is what he said and, I do not think that we should let the people that the remarks of one person should stop the country from getting the country to move forward. We need to grow up as a nation. We need to stop letting fear govern us and then we can move forward.

I'd like to know why anyone would leave their church behind a comment that you did not make and why would you ask Obama to leave a church that he's been at for over 20 years. Now remember the Catholic church had their problems with a number of priests molesting young boys, so who stopped being a Catholic and stop going to their church? Something closer to home, like the racist, sexists, hate talk, and anything else negative that has been said in your parents home by a family members, have you stopped visiting your family, I dont think so because they are a part of you and you are not responsible for anything they had to say. Obama's response was positive, forthcoming, and well worth hearing

The response by Sen. Obama, today (March 18, 2008) was unsatisfactory. Senator Obama focused only on "RACISM" and did not address the "HATE AMERICA" rhetorical rantings and mentoring of Rev. Wright. Wouldn't you agree that this is a bit strange for a Presidential candidate. Maybe I can answer by own questions by saying that Sen. Obama would simply say that he "wasn't present or wasn't aware" of the HATE AMERICA teachings of Rev. Wright. This is all so sad for those of us who ONCE endoresed Obama, but no longer do.

Cambell,
As a retired law enforcement officer I think it is silly and un-professional to say that an armed robber is adorable! What if a policeman or innocent bystander had been injured by this idiot. I thought that you were a journalist.....quit being a silly teenager!

As Obama said in his apology speech. He is not pleased with what was said, he does not agree with it, and his Pastor never spoke those racial slurs in his presence. That is enough for me! I am a member of a "black church" and I am pretty sure that you can take a clip from his sermon and it may sound offensive, but you would never really know unless you heard the entire sermon. Now I understand that clip that has been shown over and over and over a million times over... may seem extreme. But I don't agree with everything my Pastor says… and what my Pastor says is not always a reflection on me or my own personal beliefs. I think Obama's speech should be enough... and for those who were not satisfied… they are upset for other reasons... Because the remarks his pastor made in my eyes are irrelevant to what he obviously stands for… and don't take my word for he said it himself in his speech… Get over it... I’m tired of it being the only story on!!

I ask many of you to walk in the shoes of someone of color. Please experience what it is like not to get a job because of the color of your skin. To wait in line at a retail store only to be passed over and ignored. To be followed consistently in a store because you have been stereotyped because of the color of your skin. Racial tension is alive and well and it festers like cancer why not bring it to the fore front. I don't necessarily agree with all of the comments on CNN, but I don't ask that each and every commentator step down from his job.
Great job Obama!!!!! It is about time that someone had some guts to bring race out and let all that it hurts and all that it causes pain have a voice.

As a bi racial "white" man, who grew up privy to the secret racism of both sides of my family, I was brought to tears by Obama's words this morning, as they spoke a truth that so few in this country ever really experience or understand. Mainly what hit me was the core notion of family and how that in America that needs to transcend beyond blood or racial lines to a broader understanding of who we are as a nation/ a family of people who share a common painful history. Obama is America plain and simple.

I agree with Sonia from Texas. I am a republican 51 year old white female. The more I listen to Obama, the more I respect him. He is not only brilliant, he is real. I admire him for the risks he took today.

I cannot get past Rev. Wrights comments he made, on President Clinton. I found the comments vile, for a past president. He has done more for minorities during his presidency and with his charitable organizations as a past president than Rev. Wright could ever imagine doing. The fact that Obama defends this man in his speech is not acceptable.

As I am reading up on these comments.....what exactly do you hate-ful people expect the man to do? Forgiveness is the key here. You cannot control what someone says.....he said all he could this a.m. about the subject, and if all there was to this Pastor was the 5 sec. soundbites, he said he'd have felt the same way as us & left the church. He stood by the man, the friend, not the idealogy, hatred, anger or the words.........grow up people.......you are perpetuating the hate........enuf said – he denounces it, but keeps the man in his life.......that's about all anyone could expect from anyone!

As A 56 Yr old White Female, I see the Rev Wright's words,as very scarey. It was frightening to hear the anger in Rev's words, and no,Obama is NOT responsible for his Rev's words, but he has listened to this mentor for over 20 years, and if affected by the good, must be affected by the ill he has heard as well. Putting the race card out there, tells me from the effect, that Afro American's seemingly will never be satisfied, and MLK, or Jessie Jackson's Rainbow Colition, affirmitive action, means nothing. The color of one's skin, is of little matter, it is their track records, not stolen ideas, or words, but behavior. I am heart sick at the turn this has taken, the hatred, still out there, and the chance that MC Caine will win, if Obama is nominated is very real. This turned racial, because Obama wanted it so, to downplay his shortcomings. He would be a great Vic President, which he has denounced. I find him arrogant.
Yes, we can, we want change, but many of us know a female, is long needed to correct the in balance, and Hillary can do that. The men who fear that, are out of the loop, and need to enter the 21st century.
Has anyone ever heard the word Peace?

Also, I was impressed that Obama did not denounce his pastor. Denouncing him would have been hyppocritical. I agree with Campbell that he revealed his true metal today. Even though I am not a supporter, I was impressed by the strength of his charecter that this incident has brought out.

Is everyone missing the point on Senator Obama? He swore he'd never lie, always tell the truth and made much hay from calling Senator Clinton untrustworthy and someone who does double talk. In the last month alone he has been caught in THREE LIES including the latest in which he first said he never heard any comments from Rev. Wright and now admits he did (as if anyone could believe a person as in touch as Sen. Obama is supposed to be didn't know what his preacher of 20 years was saying). The other two lies were denials of the meetings between his staff and Canadian officials and his aides and his real plans for how quickly he can get out of Iraq. He may turn out to be the cruelest of the pols (raising hope knowing he won't deliver; telling us what we want to hear just like the other pols).

I really hate that this campagin has come to this. I believe that America should not turn a blind eye to our history. Those who were oppressed and subjugated duirng the legal discrimination that took place in the 60's have not undergone some type of sci-fi memory erasure. They are not obligated to silence themselves regarding the reality of race relations in this country. And to tie Sen. Obama to the opinions of his Pastor is completely unfair.

The unfortunate truth is that we live in a country that has an attention span of about 8 seconds. So if you did not watch the entire speech you are likely getting your facts from the sound-bites that the media wishes to show you. Dick Dumas from San Diego CA is 100% correct. The speech did not expose a lie by Obama. He elaborated on the previous comments and explained that he was aware that the Pastor was controversial and offensive. He did state that he never heard him say any of the statements that were captured on the videos that have been released to date.
For anyone that has not seen the speech, watch it in its entirety. It is my opinion that this country has not been witness to such inspirational articulation in about 40 years.
PS. I am a conservative registered Republican

Bay Buchanan spoke well.....surprised given her background, but will view her more fairly in the future....not because I agree with her, but she appears to be well thought out

CNN,
You covered the Rev. Wright issue thoroughly. Barak Obama addressed race in a magnificent manner today. Please, move on to other issues, now. I pray we've seen the last snippets of Wright 's sermons. Enough!

It is nice to see a politician speek to America like adults and not children. Way to go Obama. I think anyone that says they were not impressed with that speech is full of it. When he talks, it is like watching a speech from yester year. To me he is like listing to someone who use to only exist in the history books. I must admit, this is the first politician that has ever moved me and i can ony hope he continues to move more and more americans just like me who do believe in hope and chang for our next chapter in the American dream.

I agree – this speech has done well for Obama.

Obama showed a lot of courage today and it took a lot of guts to make his speech about discrimination and racism.
I am so glad he took a stand on his minister and didn't disown him even though none of us agree with some of the inflametory statements that his minister had said. I commend Barack O. for going into depth on this subject.
Well done Barack!! One more reason to vote for you.
From your average WHITE 50 year old FEMALE

As a white female, from pennsylvania I was touched by Obama's speech today, literally brought to tears. As a white in a predominantly white community I can understand why blacks are frustrated. The same frustration that whites now feel with our economy and tremendous loss of jobs in the u.s. I felt Obama spoke out loud what alot of whites have thought, but have no outlet to speak about it. We need to make improvements in our nation for ALL discrimination, bigotry, hate, and fear. I don't believe he could have said anymore than he did today, to show who this man really is.
I have relative who is a preacher. I love him, but I don't agree with everything he says, when he can be hardheaded and hurtful, in the name of religion. But, I will not turn my back on him, or publicly denouce this relative either! You have to put this in context. He has denounced the speech as hurtful and unexcusable, but would we expect him to dispose of a part of his family? I certainly wouldn't. If more people believe the way he did, that every one of us have faults, but how would you overcome the faults, if everyone who you loved, and you turned to for support, walked away from you WHEN you made a mistake??? If we can't stand up for those you love, when they are wrong, how do we expect nations to get along, to build communication lines, to build are international leadership when we denounce and turn on backs on every country, who does not think and talk like we do. We need to say...we are different but I'm willing to talk to you and see what we can get together on...that is what a LEADER does. We have lived with division, my way or the highway for 7 years...how has that worked for us America??? We nend to change the way we have been livng and thinking...if we truly want change for the world.
We need our nation to heal. We need to have more understanding of each other, we need to come together as a nation, not as blacks against whites...and dems against rep. We are one nation....with a political system that has turned away so many voters...by being so negative and hateful. As he said...nothing will change...IF we continue down the same path. I want more for my children. I want them to live in an America where dreams CAN come true, not hearing about the "old" American dream...that they no longer have a chance at! We need to be united, we need to LISTEN more than we talk, we need to LEARN to have understanding for those who are different than us, to heal this great divide in our country.
Can we give our children this?? I BELIEVE we can....I believe we can give our children a legacy that is POSITIVE....a FUTURE that is bright, and CHANGE we can not only believe in...but we can ACCOMPLISH by working together!
Come on America....we need to come together for our nation...no matter what side your on...you are an American FIRST!

You know, alot of people don't look and the glass as half full, The glass (TV) isn't even giving you half this time. If you are making your judgements on sound bites that are edited to fit a story line, then you are not truly informed and will make and irrational decision. We as a people need to take a time to lead ourselves in our research instead of sitting on the couch and accepting what the media researches for us. i have done my research have you? Ignorance is no excuse!

Obama didn't know that his preacher for 20 years talked like he did on the pulpit.

This pastor supports Farrakhan an anti-semite.
This was the "black power" generation.
It's hate and scarey.

For Obama to ask his supporters to jump on board with any radical leader is unfair.

No white person would recommend that we jump on board with the KKK.

Wake up America!

I love this country and do not care if anyone is black or white. We cannot have any candidate talk so poorly about our country. We cannot vote for a candidate that calls this pastor a MENTOR.

This is frightening!

Senator Obama's speech was very powerful and truthful and spoke to the heart of what is and has always been America's problem- race, racism, and racialization. You are all treating this huge issue that cuts at the core of America as a black problem. Race, racism and racialization is not a black problem, it is an everybody problem. It is an issue that was created and has been maintained historically by Euro-Americans, particularly Euro-American land owners, elite, those who have had historical power, as a means of keeping a divide and conquer going between the working classe and masses of people of all colors. Race began with Euro-Americans and has been maintained and perpetuated by Euro-Americans through enslavement, legislation that created segregation and discrimination, and the very nuanced pieces of race that we see today in the 21st century, beginning with your coverage of this story. The media puts forth race as only a black/people of color problem while omitting the role of Euro-Americans in these issues of race and racism. Race is an everybody problem that did not begin with African-Americans or other groups of color. Thus for the media, including CNN to have only Senator Obama defend his racial views and speak to race, while not calling on Senator Clinton, and Senator McCain to defend and address their racial views and values and the racial values of the Euro-American community keeps the issue of racism alive and well. It keeps the divide and conquer among the masses of working class people black, white, red, brown, and yellow thriving , a divide which Senator Obama is seeking to overcome and bring together so we can solve the real issues that affect all of America's people. Racism exists in all segments of our society and to have the media, CNN ignore it's existence in the Euro-American community and it's impact on that community does nothing but perpetuate racism. All sides should be brought to the table and all stories should be told- Senator Obama is trying to do this, will you in the media call on Senators Clinton and McCain to address this issue from a Euro-American perspective sharing their racial values and stories or will you continue to perpetuate that this is a Black problem which has nothing to do with the white community and which the white community has no stake in?

I am a single parent. I recently became a widow. I am self employed and tryingt to send my only child to college. I ofter have to choose between health care and his financial needs. I should not have to choose between his education and his health care. I want to know how I will solve this type of problem - not what Senator Oboma's former pastor said before he retired. Why are you spending so much time on a story designed to tear down the character of a good man. It this what you call news. Do the members of the Catholic faith leave the church because the child abuse. Not at all. Think about what you're doing.

I thought the speech was good, but I just have a hard time getting out of my mind the fact that he and Michelle would take their daughters to hear that hate and perhaps have it placed into the minds of another generation. As a white male, father of my own bi-racial son whom my wife and I are doing our level best to explain right and wrong in the world and the terrible wounds that bigotry can bring upon people of all races, well, I would have walked away from the church. And by the way, I have attended many African American churches in Chicago and have never heard that kind of language, so please, don't tell me it's a "black thing".........

After leaving the Six Floor Museum today in Dallas I got the feeling of just how much alike these two men are. John Kennedy and barak Obama. The queston of their relegion and the office of the Presidential office. Through it all, they both hold true totheir personal beliefs and asks us as americans to think outside the box for change.

Rosey!!!

Everything that Mr. Obama has done or will do in the future will be scrutinized because of who he is and for the audacity to be seeking the highest seat in the land. It is a fact that he and his supporters have accepted.

As a person who grew up outside of the U.S for the first 11 years of my life, in a society that was ethnically diverse. Coming to the states and having the N word thrown at me was a shock to my 11 year old psyche. America needs to own the history of racism that is engrained in its systems. I'm sorry, but caucasian people can never understand the pain that many people of color feel. Has the average caucasian person given any serious taught to what the pastor was saying. What would cause this man to make such statements.

Dig deep into the pastors statements, besides the spin being broadcasted in the media, conduct your own research. But then again the media expects that many will not want to engage in such work. So they'll package it up for you. Good luck people.

As much as some of you may disagree with your fellow bloggers, there is an incredible amount of passion on this blog every night.

On Anderson Cooper 360 Friday Obama said that he never heard inflamitory comments from The Pastor, Yet in his speech today he said he did. If this was Clinton you would be all over her. Nit picking every word that was said. Obama also said on Anderson Cooper this he is where he is today in part because of the efforts of blacks, whites and browns working in the civil rights movement. When Bill Clinton said the same time back before the South Carolina primary, you all said that that diminished Obama. Is this another example of the 'N' word, where it is ok for backs to say it but not ok for whites. I think the media should get back to the issues that matter.

The more people that come out in support of Rev. Wright, the worse the reception.

The best way to determine how well Barack Obama did today in overcoming tis "distraction" is to try and have a conversation with a conservative Republican about it. They are so fixated on Rush Limabugh politics and how to keep Obama out of the race, it's almost embarassing. They would do just about anything to have Hillary elected and run against john McCain

Aside from that, I am so pround of Barack Obama for this speech. He is a healer, and he is an incredible leader. I have great faith that when all is said and done, and we turn out the lights, and lay in bed at night with only our own thoughts, that Americans will know that he is authentic, honest, human and true. And that he was able to put into words what we all truly, inherently know, and that we must accept, and address. If he is not our nominee, our country will be reminded of what a disappointment it is that he did not win for years to come when his words echo back to us. He is a once in a lifetime choice.

How incredible is it to have this great responsibility. I thank God for it.

America is not full of dumb people! Common since has to prevail sooner or later! Common sense tells me that if i know my pastor for over 20 years and had been married by him and had my kids baptised by him i am going to know who he is!!! Yes this means i am going to know the good and the BAD! Anyone that says different is just not being realistic! Lets wake up and smell the dirty air before it's to late, PLEASE!

I am very frustrated at how many commentators CNN interview who support Obama! CNN keeps saying that it's a fair network, but if you really analyze it, it epitomizes the kind of media that Saturday Night Live poked fun of. On Friday night, when Obama made the rounds doing interviews with different networks explaining his relationship with Pastor Jeremiah Wright, I found that even Anderson Cooper was the least aggressive in choosing the right questions to shed light on the issue that would let "us" the viewers make our own decisions for ourselves. Un-biased! Really?

Please stop the spin. Barack Obama lied to the American people. First , he says he never heard Rev Wright controversial sermons, then he says, of course I know his sermons are controversial. He says I hardly know Resko and he has only contributed a small amount of money to his campaign, then he says Resko has given 250,000 in support. First he says he had no real estate dealings with Resko, then says he might have made a bad decision with Resko regarding a lot next to his Chicago home.

I am also shocked to think he would compare rev wright with his Grandmother who raised him and sacrificed when his own father left the family and was a bigamist. I am sorry but,there is no comparison, I know because I am raising my Grandson.

Where there is smoke there is a good chance of fire I say we say goodbye Barack.

Senator Obama has something that can't be taught and can't be bought. He has wisdom. He understands there are shades of grey in every situation. He possesses the unique ability to really think through different situations. He seems to evaluate them from all sides, considers the facts, and then acts upon them. He's gained more respect from me today than he had in the past and I didn't think that was possible. My husband, a conservative, is now a supporter too. The speech was delivered with great emotion. It was brilliant.

Morin you need to get past this. Unsatisfactory, according to who? you? what more would you like him to do? In fact how much more does he need to speak on this topic to satisfy those who are critical of him? My guess is for the rest of the primaries.

Obama seems to be reminding us to question ourselves on a personal level at home, in our neighborhoods, churches, workplaces, recreational places. What choices do we make based on race in our daily lives?

His speech encourages us to think about how we view each other on a personal level.
Does a teacher see a student or does a teacher see the color of a student first?
Does a doctor see a patient or does a doctor see the color of a person first?
Do I see my neighbor as a white neighbor or a black neighbor?
Will white Christian ministers come to Rev. Wright to comfort his pain and discomfort on racial matters?
Can an anchorman of any race be readily accepted, trusted, believed?
Will we ever have a presidential race where there is no polling data based on race? Imagine what we are telling the rest of the world when the media spend hours on displaying and discussing polling data on race. That says a lot to the rest of the world about racial problems in our country.

We need to always ask WHO is saying the words and why.
- 20-year association with this non-sense and ANTI-AMERICANISM.
- never tried to reform from within
- didnt help get heat for hundreds of families in 11 buildings in low-income district in Chicago.. his own district.. buildings owned by Rezko.
- trying to save his skin in the campaign...

Slickest ever.

America can see thru this.. hoodwinking attempt... He gave 45 minutes of written, teleprompted speech.. and you gavehim the rest of the day..

I applaud Obama's speech. It was eloquently done; it was sincere; challenging; powerful. First of all, Obama was placed in this position, through no doing of his own; and since this is the hand he was dealt via the media, whoever the person (or persons) was (or were) , who turned the tape in on his paster; he rose to the occasion, as he usually does. As we all know, Obama did not initiate the "race" issue; it appears a lot of other entities around him did; he has done everything in his power to stay away from race. Secondly, sadly enough, there is still a double standard in this nation. It is unfortunate that Obama had to provide an explanation of his pastor's comments, but no other candidate, whether Republican or Democrat, has had to do the same; when we know that some conservatives' pastors make inappropriate comments, and even embrace talk show hosts such as Rush Limbaugh; that person does not have to go through the same scrutiny as Obama has had to. This is totally unfair. My last comment is this: Though Obama was put in this position; he responded with grace, love, and peace; and challenged America, for each individual to look within, search their hearts. When we stand in the mirror, who do we see? We know how we feel about others who might not "look like us", but I think we need to recognize, we have more similiarities, if we look more closely, than differences.

I am an African American and supported Barack Obama throughout this entire election until this entire "Pastor Wright" story broke. While I want to believe Obama loves America and supports its cause, I just cannot agree with the fact that he had no idea what was said in the church. I believe he knew and for some odd reason he continued to support the pastor everyday. For this reason, I will support Hillary Clinton throughout the rest of the primaries. It is just sad to see Barack Obama fall from grace because of an ignorant, racist pastor.

Katt, it was great reading your comment. That was a question that I had through this whole issue. I wondered if the people who are so offended would choose to admit that they have family members and friends (perhaps clergy as well) who make racial comments regularly. I think both white and blacks can attest to this. I am a black woman who has a gay ,Irish best friend who makes comments about a certain group all of the time. While I do not agree with him, he is still my friend based on his overall character and the friend that he has been to me. Thanks for both your truthfulness and forward thinking.

As usual Barack can deliver a good speech. However, the hypocrisy that rang thru out the speech was nauseating. I cannot beieve he would compare statements made by his white grandmother that raised him (after his black father left him) with the hateful, angry words of his pastor. I am sick of the whining. Move on and quit living in the past and start taking responsibility for your own actions today. Too many black ministers make a living by keeping their congregations feeing beat down and oppressed by white people.
Be honest-where did you hear the worse racist comments this week?

Hello, Campbell, Sen. Obama gave a excellent speech today he gave a speech from his heart, I have never witness a politican in my life time raise the bar to this level.
What's so sad is that MOST Americans are just not smart enough to understand what he was saying.

CNN….

After reading the post of some of your bloggers, I've come to the conclusion that they're just plain hateful. And, spewing their venom without regards to others, is simply ignorant. I also believe, that these same individuals, would not vote for a black man anyway. So, why even comment, it's simple, they want to make sure that the hostile environment of divide conquer continues.

how populated would the world have to be in order for us to dis-own a person or persons everytime they said something or did something that was inflammatory or even wrong. seems to me you would end up with extremely segregated populations. we have been there and done that.....his cousin cheney supported a war that has killed thousands of people have they dis-owned this president and admin.....and we are discussing words that might have been offensive to some........ i wonder how many object to those words... also object to this war that was waged under hate and oppression.

Great speech! Very powerful!

While he denounced Rev.Wrights anti-American sermons. I still have questions.

How may men, women and children were in attendence and unlike Obama believe every word. I still feel Rev. Wright's semons were dangerous and anyone who sit though them has to believe some of what he's saying.

I know I would never sit and listen to these anti-American, Hate, Conspiracy sermons. God Forbid never would I want my Children or Grandchildren to hear such HATE.

Today he claimed he was in attendence at some of these sermons. Were his children also in attendence and if so how do you explain to you children some of the terrible things that GODS MINISTER has just said. I find so much of this very troubling.

I wonder what kind of a President Obama would be if for 20 years he said nothing sat back and listened. Yet now he speaks out about all the wrongs in politics.

Barack Obama is the jewel of the presidency race. He has the backbone and the integrity that I have not witnessed in none of the other candidates. His speech on race today was the best speech I have heard from a political figure since Martin Luther King.

Barack Obama is not racist, but the mostly white media is. And as far as radio talk show host Rush Linbaugh is concerned, what he need to do is consider is drug abusive ways. How dare this drug abuser to condem Barack. Rush Linbaugh is the most racist of racists in the United States of America. If anything, he seems to be a KKK without the hood and the robe. Extreme cowardiceness.

I am a non-white South African who left South Africa to go to Canada during the Apartheid years for fear I would be killed for my radical views on race. I was very, very, angry and it took Desmond Tutu and Nelson Mandela to ease the anger in me and accept reconciliation. Neither Barack Obama nor the Reverend Wright are near there yet. We never had radical "black" churches in South Africa although the extreme whites had theirs. I believe that Bill and Hillary Clinton have done much more for racial equality than Barack Obama has ever done. What was he doing for the 20 years he sat in the pews, closing his eyes and clapping in comparison to what Bill and Hillary have been doing for equality. He only want to preach reconciliation now that he is running for president. Americans should choose the most qualified candidate without silly emotion. I believe that is Hillary Clinton.

I have wanted so much to be a supporter, and everything about my background, ethnicity, and class would dictate that I would be. But I don’t find Senator Obama moral. I find him slippery. If he were truly moral, he would not have leveraged thisexposure of his core spiritual leader for what he is to one end: controlling the damage and getting our vote. This pastor’s language is untenable, hateful, hurtful. Rather than inspiring, it fans the flames of rage–not his congregation's “angels� but their “demons.� If there had been children in that church on that day I would have been devestated. Please ask the questions journalists should ask: why is it that Senator Obama first denied knowing of these inflammatory remarks when Mr. Cooper interviewed him, but yet today said that he indeed did know? I would like to like him. But my own moral b…… detector will not allow me to. Doublespeak about our Chicago conman/criminal. Doublespeak about NAFTA. Doublespeak about the Reverand. Doublespeak about transcending race. And doubleness is the word: in keeping with the double standard that has been the hallmark of this campaign, if Senator Clinton’s spiritual advisor had been caught making these comments with the races reversed, her race–in the political sense–would be over.

Why is it that no one is mentioning that last Friday evening...Mr. Obama was interviewed on 360 by Anderson Cooper and Obama said that he never once heard divisive comments in the church and now today, Obama says yes he did he hear angry and divisive comments while he was attending church...what is the truth...? Why is the media not mentioning this story...? All I hear from all the pundits is what a good speech it was, but shouldn’t we be looking for the truth?? Isn’t that what the media is here for?

i think America has talent. Bravo Obama. i have alot of respect for that man. he did not chew his words, was not afraid to speak out. that is what we need in a leader. if it was Obama who has won 14 contest out of the many held like Hillary the media will be asking him to step down. give the guy credit he has done so well. why crucify him for something that he did not say. as if we don't have anyone in our lives that has said something bad. grow up America

Obama speech today was very so needed in this United States of America. His speech today hopefully made everyone looks into his or her own thoughts about race. Obama showed loyalty, pride, and respect to himself and the people of America. Should we ask all Catholics to denounce their faith due to child molestation in the catholic community? Should we ask the preacher who preaches hatred towards African Americans in the name of the bible? Should young white people separate themselves from a loving grandparent who in the same breath uses the “N� word to describe black folk? Can you?

Obama spoke to all of America to see the injustice and racial divide and ask that we take a look and try to work towards getting past this. WOW!!!

Sue Dinetz you have got to be kidding... 20 years in a church with a bigot and he did not noticed.... lack of judgement is like it... or worse he agrees with the bigot...

To those who keeps saying they can't believe he took his family around this man.....stop.....

we heard 8, 20-30 sec sound bites, do you really think the man said those things every sermon 1-2 hours, for 40 years..

No, the congregation whether they agreed or not would have told him to move on....come on people.....

Wow I can't believe people are soooo judgemental....

have you never heard someone make a slur and not correct them immediately? Because if you didn't, you have no right to be sooo judgemental...

We don't know what they talked about in private....

We have yet to hear ONE full sermon....

Stop spreading and perpetuating hate....

Isn't it christian like to forgive?

I am a white 64 year old female. My husband and I relocated 4 years
ago from Ohio, and currently live just north of Charlotte, NC. Both of us are so excited to see someone like Barack Obama come along in
politics. He speaks from the heart, tells it like it is, very smart and
shows that we need to get rid of politics as usual. I feel he offers more than hope, but a destiny for future generations to come together. which this country and the world desparately need. Wish I
could see him in Charlotte tomorrow!!! He has our vote and support.

Anne
Terrell, NC

I respect Obama's reality check speech. There has been too much denial in America about what is the racial truth. This inspirational message
addressed a truth that Pennsylvania can embrace ,respect and I have faith that the people of Pennsylvania will use their wisdom to vote for a good man, a truth giver- and a candidate that will represent the UNITED STATES OF AMERICA..

I am right on board with "Very Concerned American"
I don't see how people can't see this..... everything is coming out

Obama's campaign has run on reverse racism and has come back to bite them. They were quick to accuse former President Clinton and Mrs. Ferrero of racism which in no way was true.

Now we see that Obama is involved with people who are anti-americans.

Jim Wallis has a point, but the anger he talks about leaving behind has to be left behind by not only whites but Blacks too.

Personally, I thought Obama's speech was fine. Most moderate sources seem to agree. But the speech is already being dismissed by multiple sources on the right.

For the right, this is not about the imperfect Rev. Wright, or about Obama rejecting Wright's hyperbole.

It’s about destroying Obama’s trans-racial appeal, thereby crippling his ability to win swing voters. It allows the right to play both the race card and the religion card ("ok, maybe he’s not Muslim – but he goes to that radical black church – there's that picture with him embracing that pastor!").

It allows the right to say “you can’t vote for Obama – he’s completely unlike you, and will not help you.� The right cannot let this go. Rush Limbaugh has already made their talking point clear, and it's to minimize Obama in the minds of the voters to nothing more than "the black guy."

As Obama noted (diplomatically): If they succeed, the entire process suffers. Maybe instead of a 30 minute speech, Obama needs to come up with his own 30-second soundbite to counter it....

So: will we be distracted by this song and dance about Obama's pastor, or will we insist that the focus return to what Obama (or McCain) can do for us average folks? Issues matter, and the people actually running for office matter. A lot of this sound and fury signifies nothing but attempts at obfuscation and division.

well, Barack is part of the setting.. for 20 years.. racist remarks are just that..wherever they are made and there was anti-american statements being made..

Barack is mired in the problem.. and has not been part of the solution..

Come on commentators! It was a speech and that's all. Jim Wallis is trying to convince the world of what? CNN, you have a responsbility to get to the truth. Start asking questions and quite trying to apologize for racial inequality of the past. Egg shells!

I applaud Sen. Obama for speaking on the issues of race because racism is still prevalent in our society today. Despite the fact that Barack Obama is a viable candidate for the U.S. presidency, there are still many white Americans bent on condemning and criticizing the senator because he is a black man.

I think Rev. Wright's comments have been blown out of proportion. How many leaders in the U.S. Senate and Congress (identified as Catholics) have stepped down from his/her position when Catholic priests were exposed and found guilty of child molestation? None!

Were the minister's words more insulting than the racial stereotypes that have been perpetuated in this country for centuries? No. Were his words as despicable as the inhumane treatment and racist writings, teachings, actions, and crimes leveled against African Americans, Native Americans, Asians, and Jews? Of course not! Are people in America still being left out & left behind–economically, socially, and politically–because of the color of their skin? Yes!!!

The citizens of this country are going to have to deal with the issues of race, racism, and inequality *head on* if we truly want to live in an America that is *united*.

Although I give Obama credit for not disowning his pastor whom he considers a family member, voters should keep in mind the undeniable fact that Reverend Wright was to Obama a personal mentor, someone from whom he received much advice and counsel over a period of twenty years.

To choose as a mentor who uses the pulpit to bring about more frustration and anger instead of preaching forgiveness and edification says quite a bit about the lack of discernment Obama has when it comes to the people of influence he surrounds himself with.

This is a very legitimate concern to voters who know that the future president will hand pick leaders that will be of much influence to him/her in office.

It took Ms. Wattleton so long to get to the point that I forgot the question.

Joseph Legler, If Obama had not attended this church or had not been raised by his white blue collar grandparents, there is no way he could have made such a speech today. What better person is there than Barack Obama who can help us all including your relatives and my relatives to begin the process of putting the legacies of hate and oppression "to the winds of time." And, in order to do this, you have to stay and work it through to reconciliation and justice. Barack's speech today, shows that he has what it takes to bring everyone's issues to the table because he sees and understands their pain and you cannot cure that pain by walking away.

@Sabrina, Las Vegas, NV: You have a good point. However, this is what happens when you mix religion with politics. Anger and/or passion will always prevail. What is very unfortunate here, is that people are changing their minds and not voting for Obama because of his religious beliefs.

just as i thought obama if you look at the debates the only thing he knows to do is repeate what the candiate before him says especially clinton after she goes first he repeates what she says but addes just a little more trying to make it look different. obamas speech today was not on his pastor as it should be he got free air time to give a political speech on every network, boy can he snooker you guys not a pennie spent for free time. he is a flip flopper and attended this guys church for 20 years i wouldn't do that i'd leave he didn't. he's no j f k or m l k just another politician the wing of the democrate party that' hates the clintons has sponsered to put in. look deeper you might find more. i love this country and obama sat in that church and never even tried to talk to his pastor about his views, GOD BLESS AMERICA MR. OBAMA

Mr. Obama’s speech doesn’t change the way I vote…I will still support Sen. Clinton. But if it turns out he becomes Democratic nominee, he has my full and enthusiastic vote.

I am an African American democrat. I am sadden by the comments I am reading. Many of you have never stepped foot in an African American Church, if you did, you would be shocked. I think the real blow out is the reporting of the "so called news" by CNN, Glen Beck and other. Are you all on Hillary's payroll? If Hillary wins this election it will be because the media quit reporting the issues and begin a lynching campaign on Pastor Wright and Obama. You have a noose around Obama's neck and you (the media) keep tightening it everyday. You have blown this way out of the waters. If Hillary wins the nomination, she will have many of you to thank. Stop the madness and report the issues. I don't know Pastor Wright, but I believe he is a man that loves God, his country and Obama. For all you democrats that want McCain to win, keep going in this direction with the comments about Obama, and McCain will be a shew in. You think the economy for the middle-class is terrible now, just wait.

Obama admitted he sat in church and heard a powerful man telling 8,000 people looking for guidance and direction, a message of hate toward the white man and this country, and he did nothing to stop the man or try to talk to him at all. Is this the type of ACTION Obama is going to take towards other world leaders when they do the same or worse if he should become president?

Barak brought it home today, if you did not understand watch again with your kids they will explain it to you.

Obama has given the best political speech on race relation in my generation! He was genuine and sincere. The issue of racial divede in America is a PROBLEM that is commonly ignored. Today he has made an impact on many people with his perspective. His speech was historic, and I hope from this day forward the world will start to open their eyes to racial divide.

I think Obama did an excellent job of putting race into a perspecttive from different views. Job well done

It is a travesty to give Obama a continuing platform to discuss his candidacy just because his pastor made some controversial statements. As Geraldine Ferrarao correctly pointed out, he is given a free ride because of his race. This is confirmed in his own speech where he subtly implies that he is the best candidate for unity because of his DNA (a blantant affront to pure blacks or whites). I don't understand the effusion of your talking heads about his speech. We don't want a history lesson or more empty speeches from Obama (or any other fluff). We need substance, a list of accomplishments, and some iota of proof that he has been an effective change agent in the past. Instead you media types continue to let him bypass this essential test and ridiculously compare him to Martin Luther King and Bobby Kennedy.

I have never heard a politician speak to the issue of race with such honesty and directness as Obama did today. And we should commend him for courageously moving us past the sensationalism of unfortunate sound-bytes to the core issue at hand, America's unresolved relationship to race and to a legacy of slavery that has shaped the social and economic fabric of this country. And yet the message is still one of Unity. However, we need to truly understand this history in order to heal and move towards a more perfect union. We all have a stake in this, all people, all colors.

I completely agree with Katt's remarks. I am a 57 year old white woman who grew up with racist parents. I acknowledge that I don't know what it's like to be black and i will probably will never know.

But I do know that I appreciate Senator Obama's statements and I believe more than ever that he is the person we need now in this divisive country. He has conducted himself with dignity and with love of this country. And I dare say that perhaps he appreciates being an American more than many white folks who take for granted their rights and privileges.
Yes We Can come together to make this a better country....ALL OF US.

Hello Campbell hope you are having fun.

As for Senator Obama's speech – I think every viewer will see it in the way they wish. Those that wanted to see him outright reject and walk away from the church will be disapointed. However, I heard a speech calling to all Americans to move past racial anger.

I understand the not leaving a church for some remarks by a pastor. Years ago I heard my preacher give a sermon on a woman's place in the home. The thing that sticks out, even now, was his assertion that even if the woman was a CPA and the man could not add 1+1 and come up with 2 – the husband should handle the finances in the home. Clearly sexist thinking.

I hate bringing religion to CNN's site, but was not one of Christ sentiments – love the sinner not the sin? I feel this is what Senator Obama is doing. Respecting Rev. Wright but not his words.

Barack Obama is the only presidential candidate that voted no to the war in Iraq. Why has there been no major news media coverage of the "WINTER SOLDIER" symposium that is currently going on in Maryland? There is alot of rascist epithets that are being promoted by our military officers in charge. That is very apparent by listening to the testaments of the returning soldiers.

Yes Wallis– This is now a test of us. Watch the speech!

Campbel–Why doesn't CNN only play these negative chips of Reverend Wright–why not do some investigative journalism and find some of the positive clips that inspired Obama's positive message. What matters is not what our influences are but which of them we take to heart and promote. I'd like to hear some of those sermon clips about the audacity of hope. I even have the audacity to hope CNN will look for them!

Not impressed with Obama's speech. What I would be impressed with is if he showed a little more American pride. This is a man who is running for President of the United States!!! He refuses to wear a flag pin, he refuses to put his hand over his heart during OUR national anthem, and he aligns himself with an anti-American spirtual advisor for 20 years! THIS COUNTRY DOES NOT NEED AN ANTI-AMERICAN PRESIDENT!

This was the best speech that I have ever heard regarding race in America. He just made me want to vote for him even more. He has white and black blood in his veins. He understands how whites and blacks feel. He took the time to explain how he feels on this subject. He talked to the American people and explained his feelings. No one else would have been so candied. I am like the other blogger this was the best State of The Union I have heard. Just imagine we might all start listening to the State of the Union Address if we had someone we wanted to listen to unlike President Bush. How many of us are guilty of changing the channel? Media get over it! Let's get back on the issues of the economy and the Iraq War. Democrat's help stop the madness! Let's get back to the issues and stop talking about the preacher.

I wholly disagree with the naysayers. Obama did not flipflop on what he said Friday. Friday's remarks were about a few specific sermons which when they were preached, he was NOT present. Today he acknowledged that he knew his pastor would make vitriolic statements,with which he did not agree. WHY do the naysayers insist that he disavow his pastor????
I submit-there was no insistence that Catholics should disavow the Catholic Church when sooooo many priests were found to be pedefiles and that the church hierarchy supported them Neither was there a galloping stampede of Catholics OUT of the Catholic church in disavowal. Why should the standard be different for Obama?
Why can't he too. like the majority, separate the person from their actions? Parents do it daily with their children. They rarely throw them-their children- under the bus.
So I ask, is the insistence for Obama to do what the average white media person MIGHT be prone to do, a double standard for Blacks vs Whites?
Could it be a Clinton effort to raise and fan the flames on Obama to divert the election to another Clinton?

Joe you need to educate yourself a bit more. He didn't agree with him. In fact, just short of throwing the kitchen sink at the reverend he denounced him.

For Obama to continue denying things clearly proven–NAFTA, Rezko, Rev. Wright–shows his lack of judgment and the arrogant belief that the very biased mainstream media will keep coddling him. How many times can the Democratic Party, media and voters give this man a free pass? No white candidate of any ethnicity–Irish, Polish, German, etc.–could get away with one year of listening to such inflammatory words from a preacher without losing his/her Senate seat and being summarily dismissed from the presidential primaries. That Obama has had 20 years of this terrible rhetoric is frightening enough. That he is allowed to get away with it where any other candidate is not–is despicable. Media, are you going to play fair NOW???

Why is it that no matter what Senator Obama explains the comments are 'did he do enough?" "Should he have given us more?" When is it enough? Why is he being raked over the coals for someone elses comments? Why is more demanded of the candidate who has disclosed his documentation than from the candidate that has not? This is ridiculous. I'm glad many of you are not God, because who of us would be forgiven? And the scary part is that these are NOT comments made by Senator Obama.

Campbell, Let it go. You heard from Rev. Lowery and the guy from Soujourners–it looks like you're trying to fill an hour by WHINING ("Whyyyyyyyyyy? Why are Black people so maaaad? Faye is sitting right here next to me and she loves me! She could be my new Black friend!") bringing up the same point over and over again. If white voters don't want to vote for Barack, that is their right.
I'm tired of pundits who have no understanding of everyday people!
THIS IS ANNOYING. Senator Obama said what he is going to say. If you'reopen to it, God bless you. If not so be it.

Let us not forget, Barack did not help turn the heat on for the poor suffering people in the 11 buildings in his own district, even though he had total influence both thru his state senate office and thru his friend Rezko who owned the building. These are very large apartment complexes with literaly hundreds of people in each building. No Joke! No kidding.. It is not humane!!

So Erica, will we see Ali tonight? If not tonight, tomorrow?

The PA speech was boring, the glorification of it is a media circus. Obama is practicing identity politics, winking at one market segment while addressing another. Same as his advisors do. People are subconsciously attracted to the glottal stop in his speaking: it doesn't make him decisive or insightful, it's just a breathing error. Voice lessons could take care of it, but he'd lose half his influence.

On your show, Rev Wallace suggested that all Americans should watch Obama's speech and with their children.

Does he recommend we all watch the Rev. Wrights speeches also, and with our children?

I would have to guess the answer would be no on that one, don't you think?

Yes, it was a wonderful speech but alas, it was just a speech.

For my President, I want actions, not words.

I want actions and associations that are respectful to me, my country, and the world NOT what Obama stated plainly that he was not going to give up.

No matter what people are saying Barack Obama's speech moved me immensely! And brought me to tears! Barack Obama is today's Martin Luther King Jr. The torch has been passed to Senator Obama! Go Barack!!

What I don't get is how Obama has been in the church 20 years, and not have heard one of these speeches or at least the one after 9-11. Obama is a LIER. He lies on Iraq in which he actually made speeches in 2004 that his view and Bush's view of staying in Iraq were similar, and also in 2006 when he would not approve a date for pulling troops out, and now in 2008 when his adviser said he had no real plan to pull troops out. He has made contradicting statements not once but three times.

Folks, unless Hillary wins PA by 30 points and the rest of the states by 20 she WILL LOSE the nomination. And the Supers will NOT overide the people. The super delegates do NOT want to lose the new Obama voters and lose his $55 million monthly donations!
The GOP hates Hillary and the clintons. They will mass together to do anything to beat her!

Campbell, I think yocur coverage tonight was biased. You seemed to try to paint as much controversy into your questions as possible. Perhaps you were not aware???? The media must be responsible.

I applaud Barack Obama for standing with his minister in spite of some of the things Rev. Wright said. As a person trained in theology, I would go one step further. Rev. Wright's may have been harsh and may have been in error, but his responsibility to speak them is not only justified, but also imperative! America is not without sin! Many of our actions, as John Paul suggested, do result in adverse reactions. It is the prophet's role to tell it like it is (as he sees it)! No one wants to hear the prophetic word, but we need to hear it. Otherwise the only religious view we would have is that of Wright's critics, that America can do whatever it wants and God will bless us! Well . . It ain't necessarily so!

I am reading all these glowing comments on Obama's speech and can only believe that the CNN moderator is only posting them and not many of people who see Obama for what he is. Nothing to brag about!

To the person who is proud that he didn't throw the rev under the bus? He sould be thrown under a train. If I ranted about blacks like that and said black people were to blame for all bad things in America, I would be shot.

I know, I know this won't get pass either. Just makes me feel better.

Rev. Wright's comments are not typical of what occurs in Afro-American churches.

Hello Vickie this is an issue. it is an issue of how Obama will take or not take action when and if he becomes president. If he wont correct a pastor who exactly would he correct. Is he just going to sit there and let everyone act incorrectly and incite people to hate. The issue is he should have done something to correct his pastor or at least talk with him and he chose to do nothing then and chose to do nothing now. The President doesnt have that luxury.

Obama said he was not in church the day pastor Wright made the particular comments everyone is in media driven arms over. Obama forces everyone to think – and that is a good thing. It is fascinating to watch this unfold up here. Given your economy and the problems confronting those not at the trough of Bears Stern and the mess created in Iraq, whoever is President will have to do things different and must be different. Hillary and Bill are not the answer. I I wish I was American so I could vote, help the campaign and contribute to history. In Canada, we too are racist, especially towards our First Nations. If Americans choose Mr. Obama as its President – the world wins- big time!

As a Obama supporter I would like to add to his statement from his resounding speech today. Barrack stated that he could not condemn Rev Wright no more than he could condemn his white grandmother. I might add that niether Barrack nor myself a 45 aa female can condemn this country even after the abominations committed by this country towards my ancestors and people of color. Should abandon and disown the of our birth even it had abandoned us? No, We won't condemn and turn away from our america.

I watched Obama's remarkable speech and I have been listening tonight to various political shows, including 360, for feedback....I've watched lots of clips showing Obama defending his pastor (and of course condemning his inflammatory statements) but the one statement I think most important for people to see has not been re-shown. That is where this man is coming from.....where Obama describes his pastor as a black man who experienced the 50s and 60s when there was so much turmoil and racial hatred. The description of this man coming from that turbulent time during that generation is so telling, and certainly does not excuse his statements, but certainly shows this is an older man with his own set of prejudices, and Obama rightfully gives him leeway because of this generational gap.
This country has come a long way but sadly we have a very long way to go. I am an Obama admirer but I sometimes wonder whether he should be running for this office...If this country can't 'get' the message and the man, the country doesn't deserve such an intelligent,and insightful candidate.

Dear 360 anchor

Who care what Mr Limbaugh said ? is he the best guy to get a respond in America or hear his opinion about Obama s campain.

He express his opinion about CNN almost evrey. Should I believe him now since his opinions are beig present as criteria even at CNN.

I think it is an unfurtunate event for me to watced a CNN anchor brought up what Limbough had to said about Obmas speech and race. I dont think Mr. Limbough is the best represent for Amarican ideas and its character.

I was terribly disappointed in Obama's speech. I'm not sure what I was looking for but that didnt do it for me. He appeared to be trying to justify what Rev Wright said. Then he compared the Reverend's rantings for years with one statement of Ferramo and a few comments by his grandmother. If i were his grandmother I would disown him.

I am amazed at the level of ignorance that still exist in this country and how some White Americans refuse to believe that racism still exist. I didn’t realize how bad it was until the the late 1980s when I attended a college in Western PA and went out with friends to a neighborhood bar. One of the customers in the bar, jumped on the table in front of me and told me he was worst than Archie Bunker. Mind you I had done nothing to provoke this man. Also at this Western PA college I had a professor who became very upset with me to the point of crying and shaking because I asked her a questions about an assignment. She told me, “you people don’t belong here.� Then she proceeded to pray to Jesus. Two years ago, I moved into my home in a mixed neighborhood in VA, my white senior neighbors were asked if they were going to move because I was their new neighbor. Please tell me what these experiences sound like to you? America, we've got a long way to go and need to get our heads out of the sand for a better tomorrow for our children and for the future success of this country.

Campbell sounds like a broken record. I turned the station. She sounds like she is very concrete and just doesn't have the capacity to think abstractly. Everyone of her guests has tried to get her to move beyond, "Why did Reverend Wright use those hateful words." The gospel of social liberation was explained to her. Did she get it? Doesn't sound like it. She has the wonderful guest who started the SCLC. He did a beautiful job of putting the Black church in context. The author of the Great Awakening tried to get her to think about the idea that Barack Obama brilliantly left America with a test today. She is failing miserably tonight. Does she care about the state of the union and moving it forward? David Gergen tried to free her up to think more deeply. What is going on with the press? I hope that we call for a strike and stop watching the news if you guys can't figure out how to stop feeding the people junkfood news.

is there a reason that your guest Faye a black woman, addresses Senator Obama, and Rev Martin Luther King as Mister. and Hilary Clinton Senator

Someone mentioned a test would be whether a Democrat and a Republican could discuss today's speech... what about an Obama and a Clinton supporter? There seems to be more of a division sometimes (often on this blog) between Deomcrats right now than b/w the two parties... what do you think?

It is not surprising that some people refuse to acknowledge the circumstances of racism and discrimination that is woven into the history of the United States. You say you acknowledge it and then you blast the frustration, thoughts, and and demeanor of the people who have experienced it for generation upon generation! Some speak from a place that wishes it would just go away without actually dealing with it. Never going to happen!

Yes, some of his comments are certainly wrong and unacceptable. He is not perfect nor beyond education and guidance. However evaluating the COMPLETE life of the man, the pastor, and the member of the American community at large he certainly makes some valid statements about race and politics in America and how it has affected minorities, particularly Black people.

Some are so quick to accept everything American as if there are only two sides-patriotism or treachery. For those of you with good intentions and a seasoned understanding of various cultures you can be honest about race in America and not be so offended. You can sympathize/empathize with the harsh realities of discrimination, what it has created in people and simultaneously denounce the words perpetuate ignorance and a lack of the spirit of unification.

I believe in Obama and his mission to unite and work for ALL people, that is the goal and the worthy fight. But there are still men and women in the trenches of Black America that have to fight for, focus on, and rebuild the Black community, the same way other communities have done for themselves. How arrogant some people are to ask a people who have been oppressed for generations to apologize for their reaction to being oppressed!!!

Bottom line, IF you are a sincere seeker of truth, IF you don't understand the source of Pastor Wright's words, IF you don't get why many Black people just won't move on...ASK!

I can’t condemn a person for standing up and defending someone like Senator Obama stood up for his mentor Reverend Wright. Although the Senator’s (liberal) politics are different than my own and his pastor’s beliefs are different than my own, I appreciate the senator’s frankness and maturity in addressing this matter. He seems to be a man of integrity and thought.

He acknowledged the way things are perceived within this church. If we are to “go on� and address the issues, we’ve got to get these things out in the open without the emotions. Does he believe the things his pastor said? It would appear not. Was he influenced negatively by what his pastor said? Probably not anymore than I have been by one of my own uncles ranting about race issues in Detroit.

We’re a better country for having people like Barak Obama.

I think it's high time that American media concentrate more on pressing issues, such as economy, healthcare, poverty than devoting all energy on infinitesimal issue of what Rev Wright said.

Enough of inviting various levels of panel to discuss unwanted topics like past speeches of any pastor. To me, this is already promoting division and racism!

Denise, I agree with you. I'm 49 white, TRIED to vote for Obama but Floridians apparently don't have a right to vote. BUt, yeah... I've been in the south all my life... I've seen, and admittedly have done, mean and ignorant things because of race. I've prayed for forgiveness... I prayed to the same God that the reverend helped Obama learn about. If we could all learn to be good to each other things would be so much better. I can't say it any better than what Obama was saying today. I look forward to learning a lot more from him about how we can all be stronger together.

While I understand that Campbell Brown is pulling double shifts and we appreciate it, I would much rather see Soledad back subbing for Anderson whenever possible. I understand Campbell is new and time will tell if she can hold the audience's attention during her own show but Soledad is much more seasoned and fun to watch. Sorry, I'm a regular viewer and this is my opinion. Of course, no one can replace Anderson, but when it comes to subbing not even Erica rates as highly as Soledad. CNN should give her her own show.
On topic, the controversey with Obama is still as pressing an issue as ever and his speech only brought the racial divide to the for front.

Victor Cornfoot... I listen to the speech... He lied yesterday saying he did hot hear the pastor say any of this stuff.. yet today he said he did... he said he disagreed with the statements yet he will stick by the bigot.... Maybe it is you that is looking at this through rose color glasses... I used to support OBAMA.. not I see him for what he is a charlatan, just another politician, an opportunist and I question his judgement

If I were Obama, I would leave Rev. Wright's church.

I am usually a supporter of CNN, and I think Anderson Cooper is an excellent, non-biased reporter-but today on CNN I witnessed some of the most disgustingly biased so called "reporting" that I have ever seen. I may as well have been watching FOX. I am ashamed of you CNN-you have lost all credibility with me. DISGUSTING!
As for Obama-he can thank Reverend Wright for losing my vote. I have absolutely no tolerance for racism of any kind, perpetrated against any people.(For the record, Barack and my family have very similar histories.)
And to the Democrats(from an Independent voter)-great job in taking the election that Bush handed you on a gold platter and throwing it away. Bill Richardson was the most qualified of your candidates, and no one gave him a second thought. You don't deserve to win in November.

God Bless America! What a wonderful day, what a proud moment in our history. I am beaming with pride. I am a fifty six year old (black ) woman trying to survive as a veteran school teacher. NCLB has stripped every vestige of joy from my profession. Barack Obama's eloquent speech is the soothing balm our country needs. Wise Americans can see through the hate filled racist rhetoric The fact is there is only one race; THE HUMAN RACE! Anyone that wants or needs to believe that they are SUPERIOR to any other human being by virtue of skin color is a FOOL. The TRUTH is America will get the President it deserves
I love you Barack Obama. May God continue to bless you FIERCELY!

To all these people who applaud Obama for standing by his minister:
What did you feel Hillary Clinton should have done with Geraldine Ferraro after she made a benign comment as verus Rev Wright who made toxic comments????

It amazes me how so-called Christians forget some of the most fundamental teachings of Christianity. Remember being taught about throwing the first stone? We are not supposed to forget or condone things that we know are not in accordance with the Christian way of life. We are not suppossed to heal those who don't need healing. By Sen. Obama refusing to "throw away" Rev. Wright, he is not agreeing with him, but rather hoping that his(Obamas') Christian behavior will set the example, one that not just the Rev. needs to follow. For those who can't or won't move on and learn the valuable lessons that can be learned, I feel sadness for you. I am so, so, proud to be an American citizen, an African American with a Scottish grandmother, a Sioux grandmother, an African grandfather, and an African American grandfather whose parents were both slaves. I am proud and proud of Sen. Obama for following his heart, popular or not.

I think that Obama is still lying. There is much more that he is not telling. Just like a parent telling his or her children wat to do but stop short by saying don't tell anyone. Why would his wife, Michelle felt the way she does and Obama snobbed Hilary and kept saying that he will never be a Vice President. There is never going to be a dream team and he knows it. The Rev. has had more deeper discussion with Obama than anyone will evr imagine. How do we klnow that he did not play a hand in convincing Oprah to help Obama. I still am not convinced because there is still something else out there. First, he lied about the sermon ad then came back and said yes, I was aware that he was saying things like that. How can he be trusted. I great speeech is not the answere - he needs to put it all on the table. I can see his soul.

who will be advising barak obama when and if he becomes president the same pastor who siid those racial comments and downgraded the United States the same pastor that he refusesto distence himself from it sounds good for the troops tolisten tothis while they are at war just what they need to hear ,iguess that they will have to consider the source barak obama and his pastor

Love David Gergen!!

This was an awesome moment for America. As an African American, we have all heard similar messages given by Rev. Jeremiah Wright either at our home churches or while visiting others. As state, Sunday Mornings are the most segregated time and day of the week. It has only begin to change with the advent of the Mega churchs (i.e. Potter's House, New Birth, Lakewood, etc.)

For those that practice the Christian faith and not just ACT like they do, this is the moment when you move on to solving the issues that divide us.

America has lost it's place on the world stage. The US Dollar is well below the Euro, Yen and other foreign currency. We are struggling individually and we are struggling as a nation. China has setup shop in the most resource rich continent in the world. WHY? Because they don't have the same hangups about race that America has.

We must FORGIVE each other Band White and move on, or the hate that consumes us will result in the downfall of yet another great nation.

Profound CHANGE is what we need to show the world that AMERICA is better than the sum of it's parts.

OPRAH, "OBAMA is the one"!

I was so moved today by Obama's speech and felt so proud that I have supported him through this campaign. I have been reading The Story of Ruby Bridges to my 5 year old daughter and in that story Ruby shows an enormous amount of courage by stopping in the middle of an angry crowd to pray for forgiveness for the the mob of white people that do not think she is good enough to attend a white school. My daughter and I discussed Obama's speech today and she asked me if he prayed for all of the people that think he is not good enough to be president. This from a 5 year old. If schools and parents around this country have not shown this speech to their children they are certainly doing them a disservice. Without this kind of leadership our country will not see the change it needs to move forward. I can only hope that people can look within themselves and do what is right for our nation.

Just an observation I've noticed on your blog: seems only comments favorable to Obama are posted however anything that speaks unfavorable are tagged: "Your comment is awaiting moderation" and is later removed. Is that fair and unbiased? I dont think so. If Fox News and Hannity had never came out with the story on Barack and his minister the mainstream media and CNN would have never covered this story. And it appears this controversy aint going away anytime soon! Could Obamas campaign be going down in flames???

He that has NO sin cast the first stone!
WORDS....are like stones! Speak LIFE not Death!
This is not about Obama, Clinton or McCain... it's about 400 years of hatred. Who is the author of HATE? Who is LOVE? How can you say, let me help you to remove the log from your eye...when you also have a log in your own?
The economy is about to tank, people are homeless, people are hungry, we have exuberant job loss, high crime rate and immorality is running rampant ... In a time when when America is the darkest – we need Hope, Faith and Love. Martin Luther King mentions in his book 'when the world seems the darkest, that is when the STARS* shine the brightest'. Are you a Star*...let us strive to be your best we can be... think the best of others and speak LOVE.
I pray that each person reading this comment (including the news commentators) will check within yourself first.
Speak LOVE not HATE!

Susan from Michigan, I would like to respond to your comments...what Rev. Wright said is important in this election because if someone is called your "spiritual advisor" this is important to find out about this person and also this tells us quite a lot Mr. Obama and his so called judgment.

Obama just stated in his speech that America must vote for a black man to start to heal!!
Obama is misleading! He is an oportunist and is self serving! His spiritual leader is RACIST and anti american!!!

P lease stop with the politics! Senator Obama expressed what we all know to be true. That takes courage. This is a special individual let's recognized that. He spoke a truth that many may not understand and find hard to accept but nonetheless a reality. I am truly proud that he is running for president. Whether he wins or not he has my respect and admiration. I sincerely wish that more were like him. Pastor Wright's words were indeed controversial and I didn't like them at all. However I have read in blogs directed at Senator Obama words that had racial overtones and offensive to me. Why are these not being challenged. People need to see the complete speech not sound bites used by the media to fuel anger and hatred. We are so cynical as a people it's a sad testament that we expect perfection when we are not perfect. It's discouraging and words of hope are needed. Thank you Senator Obama! In my opinion the man has won, he has character, I am saddened that there are those who can't accept the fact that a person can be pure at heart and sincere. But they crucifiied my lord what more can a mere man expect? Thanks for the opportunity to make a comment.

I cannot phantom the some of these comments…

“His speech was powerful� “His speech was moving�

If I were his Grandmother and Mother, I would disown him for equating us to the slim ball of Reverend Wright!

Wake Up America – I am a Democrat and we are about to elect the black David Duke as our democratic representative…

I'm white, middle aged, raised in the south. I'm deeply saddened by the scepticism expressed by many bloggers. Did they really listen to the entire speech? I read Obama's books – mainly because I had time to kill on airplanes, and I have been a strong supporter ever since. Last night I was reluctantly saying that I thought the controversy about Rev. Wright would spell the death of the Obama campaign. This morning, after hearing the speech, I (audaciously) hoped again. I was impressed not only with his direct confrontation of the issues - his class in standing beside his friend and mentor (however flawed) - his ability to educate us about issues, saying things his listeners don't always want to hear, but need to - his ability to put the controversy in historical and cultural context - his abiding vision of a country that can be better than it is, that is improving in many respects, that has a tremendous capacity to learn from its mistakes, and that most of all, allows people of diverse faiths/races/world views to disagree and resolve their disagreements. In short, I think Obama is the only person I've seen who has the skill and wisdom to lead the America I grew up loving and still love (however flawed).

Sonya
Obama said he heard things like that but not that directly he saud he disagreed with his former pastor.

His pastor has been released from the campaign and he denounced his words publically.

What more do you want

I think Obama did what he needed to do. The race issue just shows that most white people have no idea what black folks go through on a daily basis. The black church has been an anchor in the community. It's now time to get back to the issues. The candidates need to stay on message and give further details on how they will deal with the problems of America.

When will you run Barack's speech? You're spending time talking about it...why not show it? We want to see it during prime time when we as a family can see it.

how can the gov pour money into the market and make cuts and expect that not to backfire?

I felt bad by my emotional response to the news of the comments from the pastor of Obama. As a former state senator and a Republican I introduced Martin Luther King, Jr. Holiday legislation. I grew up with a Dad that pulled out of the Elks due to their policy on black membership and I had an older brother that brought his best friend home for the summer, a black, from college in Illinois and then watched someone from my community burn a cross in front of my Dad's business due to the fact he hired him for the summer. I still remember that my white minister said my Dad was wrong for bringing a Black into our community. Maybe I should be more concerned with the comments of my minister than those of Obama?

I was so impressed with Obamas speech today I burnt my lunch. Thank goodness for smoke alarms. Wish we had Obama running for our country.

Joanne Ontario canada

I must say that black Americans are a very strong and resilient people. After 400 years of slavery, several more years lynching and injustice, they still have the ability to smile and love the race that enslaved and terrorized them. That is the power of God. Only the love of God can heal the wounds of the past. I pray that white Americans will take time and patience to really understand the plight of the black race and not have a “get over it” attitude. Trust me if the tables were turned and it was the Africans who bought white slaves to work in the fields of Africa, I’m almost certain the whites would not heal as fast as the blacks have. Our Jewish brothers and sisters have suffered and are still suffering and we will never forget the holocaust. All I ask is for a little more patience and understanding. Thank God for Barack Obama who has a little piece of both races (and some) in his DNA.

Obama is a phony, America wake up and smell the racism, from Obama. He sure plays that card well. Who is a member of a church for 20 years and not know the views of the pastor?? Give me a break...what a liar.

Anyone using Sen. Obama's relationship with Rev. Wright as a reason to withdraw their support was probably looking for a way out. If not this it probably would have been something else. Talk about dishonesty and misleasding people...remember WHITE WATER

Ms. Faye – Please tell her not to insult too many peoples intelligence, especially mine. If she has no positive statement about the add to that brilliant statement by Obama on his minister, to just say, "pass". That sounds better than the rediric she's putting out there, that he didn't disown the man for preaching. The quicker America gets over the fact that it's still one of the most racist countries in the world and start a true dialogue in solving this situation, we are deciving ourselves. America, the greatest country in the World, built on the blood and sweat of immigrants and slaves, needs to face this fact. I never heard the word, "prejudice" until I came to America at 14, and started expriencing it immediately in mine mid-west middle school. I was so disappointed, as having friends in the 'SIM' – Sudan Interior Mission Schools, in Africa, which were white, grew up together, never knew there was a difference because of skin color. Rude awaking coming to America. I could go on and on, as far as history, it was just 1968 that MLK was assasinated, and so on.
It's a new day, and I truly and sincerely believe that when we talk about this issue, it will all give us the wisdom, knowledge and understanding to know that we are all the same, Children of the living God, that bleeds, "RED BLOOD". We claim, to the a Christian Nation, and yet in my The Bible, 1611 King James Version, the policies that is been observe by the "Integrity Admininstration" seems quiet opposite to readings I have read. Jesus' travels, Cares, Love doesn't match what we Preach. "LOVE CONQURS ALL"...that was Christ statement. You win VICTORY OVER YOUR ENEMIES, BY LOVING THEM FIRST. As a Christian, we are to extend the hand first. Did Jesus give any Condition for HIS LOVE for US?
THIS IS A NEW DAY...AND UNITED STATES OF AMERICA IS READY FOR THE CHALLENGE. GOD BLESS THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, SO WE CAN TRULY TAKE OUR PLACE OF 1ST BACK IN THE WORLD...AMEN.

Tom Hocknell I agree with you 100%. Very well said!!!!!
Tim

I just watched Obama's speech on his website and it was fabulously delivered. He touched on almost every point that is important to every person. He didn't just talk about "this experience" or "that experience", but he showed a broad understanding of every American's experience, and how we will never get anything solved as long as we continue on distractions that serve no good purpose. I am sticking with him through November. I have not waivered as being a supporter of his.

I am disgusted by CNN's biased coverage of the Obama/ Rev. Wright story. Especially by CNN's Campbell Brown. I have watched all night and the only people she has had on were defending Rev. Wright. If I were in a church and heard such words from my preacher I would get up and leave the church. It says a lot that he continued to attend as a member for over 20 years. and sent his children. Campbell Brown continues to only have the SAME people on her show over and over defending Rev. Wright. Come on guys. This is the worsed case of biased reporting I have seen in 50 years. CNN is determined to push their agenda of electing Barrack Obama. I refuse to watch such propaganda. I thought Fox News was bad. CNN has turned the tables. Especially Campbell Brown. Somebody in the executive position needs to do something with her. Unless she is just following orders from the top. From now on I will be watching MSNBC.

THE AUDACITY OF HYPOCRISY
Everyone knows Obama can give a good speech. And he did today. But,
for all his lofty words and supposed deeply felt beliefs, one has to yet again wonder: WHERE WAS THE OUTRAGE AGAINST REV. WRIGHT AND HIS DIVISIVE HATE SPEECH DURING THE TWENTY YEARS THAT OBAMA ATTENDED THAT CHURCH? Where is the honesty? Why is it only NOW, that Obama is taking a stand against his church's bigotry and hatred? Obama LIED when first confronted with evidence of Rev. Wrights anti-American bigotry. Obama has said he had never heard the Rev. speak that way. Now he affirms that he knew about it all along, and we are supposed to trust him? His campaign was the one who tried to tar the Clintons and Geraldine Ferraro and anyone else who was critical of them as RACISTS! Obama wants to have it both ways. He says on one hand we have to understand where the anger Rev. Wrights expresses comes from, and therefor accept it. THERE SHOULD BE NO ACCEPTANCE OF HATRED, AND NO EXCUSE SHOULD BE MADE FOR IT! It goes beyond anger, the Rev. preaches HATRED pure and simple. And Obama sat in that church for TWENTY years and not until now has Obama decided to confront it! And only because it is now a detriment to his goal of winning the election. THAT IS BEYOND HYPOCRITICAL, IT IS OUTRAGEOUS! AND NO AMOUNT OF PRO OBAMA BIAS FROM THE PRESS WILL CHANGE THAT!

ONE GAY MAN'S OUTRAGE AT OBAMA
I am just one man. My opinion means no more or no less than anyone else. But I have to register my outrage over Senator Obama's speech today. There were many good things that Senator Obama spoke of, and unfortunately there were also some bad things as well. But the one thing that truly floored me was that Senator Obama actually praised Rev. Wright for his work on HIV/AIDS. As a gay man I have witnessed in horror the death of too many of my friends from HIV/AIDS, friends that I loved dearly. To see Obama praise a man who preaches that AIDS was created by the "Evil White Man as a weapon to murder the African American race" goes beyond outrage, IT DISGUSTS ME! I have seen my friends die, and watched as many in America blamed gay people for this disease. To hear Rev. Wright spew those same types of hateful conspiracy theories about who is to "blame" for HIV brings back many hateful memories that I would very much like to forget. For anyone to use the death and suffering of millions of people from HIV/AIDS to justify their own warped racist hatred is absolutely inhuman. And to see a man who may become our next President actually praise him for it, is wrong!

SO VERY WRONG!

I am gravely concerned about Senator Obama's association with his Reverend Jeremiah Wright and what this will mean for the Democrats in November... and regardless of who wins.. what all this hatred will mean for the country in the long-run. I am also concerned about it from a personal standpoint. I have looked at it from many directions and the only conclusion I can draw is that Senator Obama is not ready or fit to serve as President of our Great Country. If in fact he was present at any of those hate filled sermons, then he is unfit. On the other hand, if he was not present, but chose to stay a member of such a radical church without being aware of that fact, then he again is unfit for not being able to assess his close knit surroundings for more than two decades. That does not bode well for a President. How will he be able to assess his surroundings in a World Arena?

Preaching hate listening to hate . His children are going to a church that teaches this. I think this must be called Child abuse ! I had no clue this kind of hate was OK in the mind's of the Obamas . I am out rage! No he did not change anything today!

As a Obama supporter I would like to add to his statement from his resounding speech today. Barrack stated that he could not condemn Rev Wright no more than he could condemn his white grandmother. I might add that niether Barrack nor myself a 45yo african-american female can condemn this country even after the abominations committed by this country towards my ancestors and people of color. Should we/I abandon and disown the country of our birth even though it had abandoned us? No, We won't condemn and turn away from our america.
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