good evening Erica

Looking forward to tonight's show

Compare Obama's thoughtful moving speech on Tuesday with Clintons insightful observations that issues of race "are complicated" and "important".

Only one President amongst these two and it ain't Clinton.

Erica,
Dan Abrams wished Anderson a speedy recovery on his program tonight. Please pass it on.

Hi,Anderson,
It's soo good to see you back tonight.
You have really been soo busy, Know it will be a
great show.

E- do you think it's up to the media to bring viewers back to discussing the qualifications and track records of these candidates. Isn't that what we should be talking about?

Did Barack Obama black Anderson eye? :

CNN is covering John McCain misspeaking about Iran.

CNN is covering Hillary Clinton was in the White House during Monica Lewinsky. Out of 11 thousands pages of documents this is the first thing to be reported?! So what, not like she was watching it happen! The White House is a big place. How is that news!

What I did not see on CNN today, what the controversial radical racist group, The Black Panthers endorsement of Barack Obama today!

I was looking forward to hearing Obama “reject and denounce”, another lame speech or not accepting responsibility for his actions. You can make Obama and the stage appear presidential. Obama can deliver another elegant speech for the media to buy. But, actions speak louder than words!

Barack Obama would be an excellent civil rights speaker/activist, but not President of The United States. That became clear to me yesterday during his speech.

I voted for Barack Obama in Wisconsin, I now “reject and denounce” that vote! In the general election I will be voting for another candidate, which at this point will be John McCain, since the MSM shafted/derailed Hillary Clinton.

Why the pundits and people who insist that Obama should "disown" his minister is beyond me. Why would I vote for someone who would disown somebody they consider family?? Seems to me, I would just be asking for a president who would turn his back on me!!
Can anyone see my logic?

Hi Erica,
Looking forward to blogging today.

Obama has pals like Slum Lord Tony Rezko, Louis Farrakahn, Rev. Jeremiah Wright, etc. Are the Obama people in denial??????

Obama did not go far enough to distance himself from this nightmare. The independents (Republicans) are fawning for this to be played over and over and over until election day. We must now go with Hillary. She was right, she is the most vetted, everything they can throw at her is old news.

Wolf,

The term "fall-out", used by CNN in reference to Senator Obama's "race speech", has a pejorative connotation. Fall-out, defined by Oxford, is "radioactive debris caused by a nuclear explosion or accident"; or "the adverse side effects of a situation". I don't think the term applies to the reactions to the speech, which are overwhelmingly positive.

Thanks.

I've been wondering about all of the poll results in Rangel's district in Harlem – 80 plus – that showed 0 votes for Obama on super Tuesday. The other day Bill boasted about Hillary's victory there and I've never seen any follow-up on what actually happened there.

Anderson – hope you are doing fine after your surgery. Great idea on spending the day with Obama. Look forward to listening to it.

Lets have a legal disscusion about the clintons in the white House. after watching so many of hillary's supporters talk about her experience in the white house, and how she was there front and center, they speak about her influence on america as first lady. this worries me. Why? her husband was once the president of the U.S. Its a reasson why presidents only get 2 terms. Bill Clinton is legally binded by law. in essence were not just voting for hillary were also voting for Bill. This would be his third stay in the White House. Hillary Has stated her role in the Presidency of her husband, in return Bill can't deny what his role would be in hers. im very concerned. Why? the same organization that heavely funded Bill's Campaign also Heavily Funded Bush's campaign. Look at the facts America. The Clintons helped Corporations take our Jobs Over seas(NAFTA). Now there running again with the promise to bring them back. They have proven during this election that they will do anything to win. They our a team, who had thier shot at the white house. Now they're Back under another first name. Not fair, we have laws against what there trying to do.

Over 4 years ago my wife attended Trinity Church. She stopped going after hearing seemingly racial comments from preachers. This church has a history, and Obama, a longtime churchgoer, knew about this very fully.

Why would Senator Obama say that Senator Clinton is a conventional candidate – excuse mem she is the first female!

Senator Obama is looking much less confident and less arrogant.

Senator Obama should immediately drop out of this campaign. In fact, myself as african american and hard core democrat will write to my congressman and senator and the DNC to pressure the senator to quit the race. Republicans have all the ammunition they need to take him down bigtime, if he becomes the nominee. We democrats know how to lose and we are in the process of doing that exactly. You judge a man by the company he keeps. The senator has clearly failed again and again in his judgment. We all love this country and it is the greatest country ever and to those who do not agree on this and are not willing to work together, then they should go somewhere.

We shouldn't go with Hillary now just because she would be a safer bet. We need to go with the person who would be the best President- and I think that is Obama. We shouldn't shy away from having an open discussion about race.

I am so exciting to see Anderson is back to work from surgery!!! Yay!!

and all good thoughts for Anderson's complete recovery. . . it's especially important to wear sunscreen if you fly alot , you get more harmful rays at altitude. . .

Personally I felt that the delivery of the message by Obama sounded stilted and did not have the emotion and the fluidity of speakers like Bill Clinton and King.

Because of this I didn't feel that Obama connect with much of the audience and it just didn't seem to ring true. Great words, but poor delivery.

Love the question on patriotism. And liked Obama's answer. I agree with him.

Well i see Obama havent gotten off the hook with his pastor speeches.

And in a lot of ways Pastor Wright has talked about issues that America does not want to face/answer/deal with.

No one's answered why the country's been attacked on 9/11.
A component of it has to be American self righteous policies, think so?

We have to go with Hillary. It is NOT about who would be the best president. Clearly that is Obama. It is about who can win againt McCain and that is Hillary

To all those upset over Wrights words, ask yourself this...

Wright was a young black man in the 50's and 60's, so he felt the brunt of racism in this country.......

If you are soooo upset over words, how can you not accept Wrights anger, when he was physically and mentally tortured during that era.

Barack did not say those words, but he understands where the anger comes from.....

Stop calling Barack racist, he is not, he just has the understanding that you don't.......

You only heard a few sound bites of Wrights sermon, and you didn't hear the whole comment........

I don't agree with Wright but I understand and I don't blame Barack for someone else's statements......

Remember you haven't seen Wright in his day to day life, you don't know what he says!!!

Stop spewing the hate, and acting racist!!!!

Stop calling Barack a liar, he said he didn't hear those statments that made it on air, but had heard some controversial statements before. And again we don't know what those statements were.....

Slow down and listen and stop praphrasing lies, because you don't like Barack!

What does Rev. Wright's recent retiring have to do with Barack Obama and his family attending the church for 20 years?

Obama's campaign is over. He needs to move out of the way and let Hillary run with the ball to the end zone. The Republicans are chompin' at the bit trying to get at him and they are going to tear him up.

For some people, he will never be able to say enough about the situation(Obama). He explained in detail the view of Rev. Wright and many African Americans and the way that church is carried out in the black community. We love you Barack!!!!

Jeremiah Wright is more patriotic about America than all of our political pundits put together....he is the only person out there that has served the US in a military capacity....Jesse Owens was considered unpatriotic. When he stood up to Hitler and the America, white America was all gaga over Hitler at that time....we need to realize that as Obama says, America is not perfect and criticism is only proper

Hi, everyone. AC is in great shape - I know he appreciates your concern. I hope you're ready for an interesting show... lots ahead from AC's exclusive day on the trail with Obama.

Anderson – I am troubled by the repeated questions why didn't Obama leave the Church. First of all, those sermons were at another church, second, Black ministers do not preached about politics every Sunday. You are educated but you all are acting like you no sense.
No one that I know of would listen to sermon like this Sundays after Sundays. Come on let's be real, think for a minute.
If Obama does not win the nomination because of this, you better get ready for another four years of Bush because my friends and family will not vote for any other candidate.
OBama 08

I still think Senator Obama showed lack of judgment in not responding to Rev. Wright's sermons earlier than he did. But, I believe him when he says he's been shaken up, and maybe he'll learn from the entire experience. Let's hope so.

Hillary fans, Obama cannot lose his delegate lead unless Hillary wins PA by 25 points and the rest of thr states by 20. And that is NOT going to happen. Obama has brought more money into this campaign than Hillary. He has more popular votes than Hillary. He has motivated more voters and was better organized than Hillary. She was not ready to campaign on day one much less lead on day one.
So many people cannot stand Hillary and hate her. Especially the GOP. The GOP will be so motivated to stop the Clintons that they will do anything to beat her.
Obama will be the nominee!!!

The outrage expressed by conservative pundits over the Rev Wright comments and Obama’s “failure” to quit his church make me laugh. Sen. Obama made it clear that he disagreed with Rev Wright and denounced the comments. Additionally Obama’s entire campaign and public record are in clear contrast with those comments. These partisan talkers say he couldn’t mean it or he would have left the church. By that argument, Sen McCain, when denouncing this Administration’s use of torture, must not have meant it. After all he did not quit the Senate, the Armed Service Committee or the Republican Party! Isn’t that what the conservatives are claiming one has to do? Oh yeah, I forgot -different rules apply when you are a liberal. I’d like to see McCain denounce Rove for outing Valerie Plame. I like to see McCain denounce Bush and Cheney for intentionally misleading the American people by repeatedly lumping Sadam Hussein and Al Quaida together in the lead up to the war in Iraq. I ‘demand’ McCain quit the Republican party over its fiscally irresponsible expansion of government and reckless deficit spending, its failure to properly equip our troops before sending them to war, and its outrageous lack of response to the Katrina disaster. Aren’t these bigger ‘crimes’ that saying “God Damn the US” when referencing the US history of slavery?

Give me a break! Get over it already!

Ben-I see your point, but not the logic- unless you are related to Mr. Obama.

Frank thank you for bringing that up.....

I forgot Wright was a Marine......

I totally disagree with Jim from Monterey about Obama withdrawing from the race.
I think that Hillary should step down. She is doing a good job of mudslinging.
This is just one person that Obama "keeps company with" and you cannot condemn Obama on one man. Obama cannot be held responsible for what his pastor says.

More importantly, when are we going to move on and get back to THE ISSUES?

Another question I have is why isn't what Geraldine Ferraro's comments still such a big story?

Is the media now becoming bias again Obama? If Hillary can pull that line....so can Obama.

I AM JUST SICK OF HEARING THIS ABOUT HIS PASTOR.

I disagree with Jim from Monterey obviously. No matter who the Democrats run the 527 groups will run their "swiftboat" ads. It's not like there's any shortage of material on Hillary for them to work with.

shouldn't we be focused on what these Presidential candidates have done that's successful? Doesn't it make sense to talk qualifications now?

Hi Erica – Hve to comment on last segment that just aired with Ari Fleischer, who sometimes makes reasonable points, but not this time. Obama did a superb job speaking to the American people yesterday about the issue of race in an inteliigent, thoughtful, inclusive and froward-looking manner. If America is still great, he will be the next President.
Those who still criticize him or question his judgment for not denouncing Pastor Wright now or earlier must, to be intellectually honest and racially unbiased, criticize Republican leaders including Senator McCain. Why? Because they didn't spend the last several years denouncing the leaders of the Religious Right in America who blamed 9/11 on gays, lesbians, pagans, the American Civil Liberites Union, etc. (see Sept. 13 / 2001 edition of "The 700 Club") – in fact they've been currying favor.

Yes, lostfigs....... you're right! i am agree with you....

Hi, Gabriel - Eve Carson was a student at UNC Chapel Hill, Anderson is at UNC Charlotte tonight.

I am no longer voting for Obama, and either are my friends. If I had a pastor, who I considered my mentor, talk like that I would walk out of the church while he was giving the sermon. The pastor is suppose to be the word of God and set an example. That is no example, and shows very bad judgement on Obamas half. You know the pastor just didn't start last week talking like that. If he thinks this man is great, then I don't want him running our country. Like I said, my friends and I have changed our vote. Hopefully more will follow.

I had faith in Barack Obama until the more we finally get to hear about him the more he is revealing his truths.

Obama is unpatriotic and he has a motive to take us down as a country. I firmly believe this.

Thank you Anderson, for finally spending revealing all of his troubling problems that you and Dee Dee Meyer's have been discussing!

Janelle, WY,

For me, Rev. Wright's comments is more about anti – american agenda than a race issue. For all the things Dee Dee Myers is now mentioning, plays into the church's teachings.

Wake up America Obama in not the judge of his pastor nor Americans God is and if you can't see it all of you are blind stop trying to block him for the white house because it won't work Thank God

The fact that he was FORCED to come out and address this issue without having someone pushing the issue speaks to his inability to fight against the Republicans in the fall. We need a fighter and, in my view, all he has done throughout this campaign is defend himself and his stance.

Hey Dee Dee Myers, please get your facts straight and stop repeating all the negatives of Obama verbatim. The picture of Obama with his hand not over his heart was not when he was saying the Pledge of Allegiance, it was during the National Anthem. When Obama led the Senate in the Pledge, he did have his hand over his heart.

I agree with David Gergen. Barak has come out better from this speech. Much better today than 48 hours. Though Didi is right too – the association that politicians keep (or anybody keeps for that matter) somehow reflects on them. Even then it displays great charecter on Obama's part that he did not throw his Pastor under the bus.

The guy's a US Senator and he's running for the Presidency. How can anyone question his patriotism? Under the current economic conditions and our involvement in two wars, I question his SANITY for wanting to be President. Give it a rest.

the democratic party needs to be united... now more than ever!! Who's the best person to do that?

Right on David Gergen. He has more than the race issue. There's the economy, the war in Iraq, other issues besides race that he needs to handle.

hi Erica
wow this is truly a really good show tonight on Obama and the church, personally my reason he should leave but that's me.
And I hope ANderson Cooper feels better I'm glad to see him back, 360 was not the same without him, thank you Erica for letting us know that he is doing well you're very nice.

That's right, Janet, Me too I agree with you....

How can Obama compare his loving grandmother to Wright? A grandmother who, in a difficult situation, in a difficult time, devotedly brought up a black child and who, in private times and conversations, shared some deepest, private thoughts with him.

How different she is from a Wright who publicly, for 20 years, was in a position to influence hundreds, probably thousands of adults and children as a religious figure of authority!

I, for one, fervently hope that the next President of the United States WON'T be beholden to racial and religious value voters like the last.

I can't agree with David on that. As Amy said, all these small things add up, and if he goes against McCain they'll have a whole lot of trivial slip ups to choose from. The more things Obama doesn't address, the bigger of an issue he allows it to become. Obama just can't ignore it and hope it'll go away by election day.

Perhaps the following is the most logical question after all is said and done: Is Barrack Obama STILL an electable candidate vs. John McCain or is Hillary the more electable of the two to go against John McCain.
Also, keep in mind that he is the one who is filibustering any possible resolution to a revote in Florida and Michigan.
Phil
Guadalupe, Ca.

Elect-ability, elect-ability, elect-ability.

This has nailed the coffin on the issue of electability in the eyes of the DNC and even some of his own supporters.

Gary from Toronto...I don't know why people don't see that. Obama is the target now because he is the front runner, but if by some chance Hillary gets the nod you better believe they will ride that train until the wheels fall off as she is not flawless

Dee Dee Meyers just reiterated a myth about Barack and the photo of him not holding his hand over his heart. She said that it was during the Pledge of Allegiance, in FACT, the photo was taken during the playing of the National Anthem and one is is NOT required to place their hand over their heart during the National Anthem.

I think Senator Obama is showing us he can over come adversity and make something good come out of this. Afterall we should all learn from our mistakes. I also think the Wright was more of a Father figure to him. I would not turn my back on my loved ones even if I don't agree with everything they say . He's very Presidential. The people that don't like him still won't like him no matter what.

We need to get of this stuff, we have far bigger things to worry about than this. The war, the economy, gas prices, groceries and much more.

Hi Erica,
I honestly think that Americans don't have an idea of what the rest of the world think of them because the comment that Reverend Wright is being condemned for, for saying that what America does to the rest of the world was brought to its own backyard is very true. America's actions do provoke people around the world and that does lead to actions like Sept 11 from people who believe that their human rights and privileges are being striped away from them. I do not condone the words actually used by Reverend Wright, but I do think that the underlying meaning of his words is very true. America has to look at its foreign policy. Instead of making enemies out there,it should start making friends.
While Reverend Wrights comparisons of Clinton and Obama we uncalled for, he brings out issues that America has to deal with. And that is Racism. Instead of spending lots and lots of time trying to get Obama to denouce his Pastor, America should look at what it can do to heal some those wounds and cross that racial divide.
Annesue

Anderson, it would be only fair to spend a day with all the candidates. It would be refreshing and nice to see someone else than Obama.

Thank you and God bless.

LENORE.....

You missed the point.....

I have old people in my family who make comments about race.....

I disagree with them, respectfully and move on.....

I do not disown them, I love my family, but I realize that was the ERA they grew up in and have never socialized with other races, I have.....

He was trying to draw contrast to him Grandmother......

Why is it okay to listen to his Grandmother and not Wright?

It is not......so he disagrees with both, but respects both, just the same!!

Let me get this straight. People are questioning Obama's Patriotism because of the following:

1. No lapel pin (never mind that most of those are made in China)
2. He didn't put his hand over his heart during the National Anthem (Anybody ever been to a sporting event and count the number of people who don't have their hands over their hearts)
3. Statements made by another person (Who isn't an elected official or running for office)

This is what our political system is reduced to?

Anderson it's good to have you back from your surgery. I thought Senator Obama's speech was good. I believe him that he doesn't agree with Rev.Wright and the comments he made. But everyone keeps asking why didn't he speak up or leave the church. Well, in my opinion, he has addressed it and now it's time for let it go and move on to the issues that are keeping working people in this terrible situation. Enough already – If the media would stop beating this horse, everyone could get on with the campaign issues. I'd like to hear in more detail about what he would do about the economy , healthcare and the war.

Sheryl in IL – if the media hadn't started making public the Rev Wright rants, Obama was going to put the Reverend on his committee! What're you talking about"learning from his mistakes?" What is the mistake?!

The Pastors's words contained hate. I'm starting to read an awful lot of hateful words on this blog. Perhaps we need to listen and discuss, not shout out more anger and cruel words.

this is something i've been looking fwd to all day – the "behind the scenes" look we rarely get. i often wonder how the press corps and the candidates and their people function... there is little sleep, non-stop action and too much caffeine for anyone's good!

Has Obama ever said anything even similar to Jeremiah Wright? Is their any proof that Obama subscribes to any political views of Jeremiah Wright, ever? If so, which ones? What is so hard about believing that you can have different views than someone who is near and dear to your heart. When I go to church, and listen to my priest who I hold near and dear, I do not agree with him on significant issues: gay/lesbian issues, abortion rights,..some issues related to the war, no female priests, etc... I have best friends who I love that are conservative Republicans (I'm a liberal democrat). The question is, what are the views Obama espouses? Are any of them remotely similar to Mr. Wright. Have they ever been? With regard to words and actions, has Barack ever acted in a way congruent with Wright's political views,..ever?

Mike in Morgan Hill

Ivan – I get exactly what you are saying.

Anderson, sorry to hear about your condition. Hope you are better, you look great on the tele.

Lots of Obama negativity tonight....and I find it all very sad.
Everyone is focusing on trying to crucify Reverend Wright and Senator Obama instead of trying to understand them.
DID ANYONE HEAR THE SPEECH YESTERDAY?
Go talk to your black friends and ask them to help you understand where they're coming from. Go to a black church on Sunday and enlighten yourself. Find out why this happens.
Change comes from within US.
Senator Obama has said all along that change starts from the bottom not the top. We as individuals have to be the ones who make the move for change.

Anderson Cooper,
Journalists are suppose to state facts to fiction, so when Ms. Myers, a guest on your show repeats Republican rhetoric and states as fact that Barack Obama did not place his hand over his heart during the pledge those journalism instincts should kick in, Mr. Cooper. That is when you say,"Ms. Myers, your statement is incorrect and here is why, the facts show that at the time the pledge was not being conducted, so there was no need for him to place his hand over his heart." Journalism 101.

Anderson Cooper and Barack Obama.....my dream 360

Anderson Cooper you advertised this show as a day on the campaign trail with Obama. Why is it still about Rev. Wright. The stupid media has nothing else to talk about.

Your program is a disappointment to me as are you. Can we hear from the Senator without the mob squad panel of republican and other "neutral Clinton supporters" picking away at his every word.

The media sucks.

If we judge elect-ability on the story of the day–then get ready because there is always another story. Just wait till Hillary's tax reports come out.

What we need to look at is how the candidates respond–I think Obama has handled it excellently.

Anderson,

I think it would be interesting to compare a statement made by Sen. Obama during your March 14th broadcast in which he stated that he first became aware of the controversial statements made by Rev. Wright when he first ran for office with statements made during his speech yesterday in which he stated he was always aware of these controversial statements. Clearly the two do not comport.

In addition, it was troubling that he compared the remarks made by his grandmother to those of the Reverand. They are two completely different situations. Your family is chosen for you, you choose your spiritual leader(s).

Lostfigs.. Unless you're a superdelegate, you are misspeaking, have you listened to Clinton today? She talked about revotes in Michigan... McCain confused Iran with Iraq... Obama gave a speech and a town meeting regarding Iraq- his concrete plans to end the war.. and take care of our Vets.. Today, by the way is the 5th Anniversary of the War in Iraq. Who is Electible? I pick the guy who wants to get us out of the War, has a Plan, opposed the War from Day 1.. and actually noticed that today on year 5 we are still at war. yes he is electible. thanks

Erica, that was such a nice exchange.. we love these interactions..

Joanne- should we also find the Rev Wright's sermons "all very sad"? Have you heard them? They're divisive and anti-Semitic.

The Pastorgate controversy has grown tired. Time to move on.

Obama has shown integrity, loyalty and the utmost patriotism.
He is our next President.

Lorie Ann is right.
I've been blogging everynight it's open here, and the name calling has to stop. Let's talk issues, facts, solutions, but name calling is very childish. Obama states he runs a clean campaign, let's see it from his supporters too.

Hi, Liz. We, too, would like to have the same access to all the candidates, not just Obama. AC blogged about this earlier today. We have requested the same day on the trail with Sen Clinton but have n't had any luck with her campaign.

Even though I'm a Clinton supporter, I am discouraged by all the bad-mouthing of Obama. It's one thing to criticize someone's positions, plans or ideas but to personally attack him, Clinton or McCain is just the same old dirty politics that I thought we were all sick of.

I have to wonder if the people that are so outspoken and outraged by Obama's so-called lack of patriotism or that think his support of his pastor is racism, think he has some grand conspiracy to become the president to further some hidden agenda. That seems so far fetched! To me, it smacks of fear.

Can't we all be a little more respectful of these people and each other?

Anderson – I am confused... the overwhelming majority of Americans have proven, as evidence by Baracks delegate count, that this election has not been about race. I am disappointed to see Barack choose to make it about race instead of confronting the absurd comments made by his pastor. I support Senator Obama but the general election is going to much tougher as this issue will certainly be used to tear America apart as those on the right have proven to be a ruthless group. I consider myself pretty open minded and sensitive to the sensitivities of others but I have to tell you, as a veteran, the Pastors comments echo strong overtones of hate toward the very nation I devoted 25 years of my life defending... that's very hard to swallow.

Unpatriotic people do not expend the time and energy and go the distance to run for president of the United States. I'd love for just one of these blog posters to explain to me the connection between Obama's supposed lack of patriotism and his run for the white house. Why on earth do you all think he's running? Why would anyone undertake a year of sleepless nights, endless speeches, time away from their family, tremendous scrutiny, etc. campaigning for the highest office in the land for a country that they don't care for deeply? That makes NO SENSE.
How shallow is someone to completely disavow their support for his candidacy based on a few sermons from his pastor who has preached for over 30 years? Get a grip people!
Has Obama EVER done anything during his time as a State Senator or a US Senator that would indicate support for Wright's statements? Look at his record people!
We should be voting for a candidate based on what they can do for all Americans and for our nation to restore us to greatness, not at what the media has chosen to hype for the past 48 hours.

Yes Erica we love when you and Anderson get to interact like normal people.

I too have had skin cancer several times, wish you all the best, be sure to get regular check up from your dermo.

Susan, I agree – Obama did handle it excellently!

More than anything else, I am a Democrat and I want someone who can win in the Fall; Obama is not it.

We've talked so much about the FL voting issues, now its Michigan's turn to decide what to do. Anyone blogging tonight from Michigan who'd like to weigh in?

Robin, no you are not right. Obama last week said he become aware of those specific comments when he started running for the race, but in the speech yesterday he said he had heard some controversal comments. Not necessarily those specific comments.

What a level-headed, intelligent, dignified, fantastic candidate. I am convinced this man would be one of the best Presidents this country has had in its history.

Thanks... we're both pretty normal!
I enjoy it, too - it's fun

xtina: yes I’ve heard them and I don’t pretend to like them or understand them, but I’m wiling to try to find out where it comes from and help heal those wounds…are you?

Hi Anderson,

I have read the transcript of the Obama speech. One thing that I can't accept is why he brings in Hillary campaign supporter who made some comments. here is what he said:

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!!!! So this seems inconsistent and thus I feel that he is using a "speech" to pander us – those core people – to continue our support.

The voting problem in MI and FL is not Obama's fault. Point the finger at the DNC. Obama has played by THEIR rules- not his.

Obama has done a good job addressing Rev. Wright's controversial remarks–I don't believe it will be easy for him to move on from this issue, to address the other important issues facing the country, but it's also important that the difficult subject of race has been discussed more openly than it has been in the past.

Anderson,
Thanks for showing some dignity fowards Senator Barack Obama..

Why doesn't Obama support a revote in Michigan and Florida.

I feel that he is the one being political.

Anderson, Obama said in a Sep 30, 2007 article in the Tampa Tribune that he would "do right by the Florida voters."

Thoughts?

I agree with Barack, Hillary only wants a re-vote because, she believes it will help her...

I don't believe MI and FL will not vote in the general election.....

This is too important of an election, for them to just throw that vote away.....I have more faith in them then most!

The media won't let this issue die! We are all trying to move on, but each time we turn on the television or radio, we are still, one week later, being beat with this loop.

Barack said we can choose to play a loop over and over again or we can embrace what we are really all looking for – and address what we all really are interested in – the economy, the war, etc.

Can someone send the media that memo.

Unlike some on this blog, I do plan to continue to support and VOTE for Obama. I say, it is time to move on from the pastor issue. Obama has denounced and rejected AND is distancing himself from this pastor.
It is time to move on. Let us get back to the issues that are really important. Health care, the economy, the war.
Please Please please......Enough, move on.

BOTH! BOTH candidates are playing for time...not just Obama..but the Clinton camp as well. BOTH...are you people listening?

If Obama is for ALL people of the USA, why won't he support the rights of the citizens of FL and Mich to have a voice and vote in this election? Everyone knows that the people did not choose the outcome ... Hillary went (visited them during the elections) to those people even when she knew their votes would not count ... she appears to be for ALL people where as he appears to be a self serving politician.

Thanks Candy. I appreciate your take on the whole Michigan re-vote deal.

Chuck, don't blame either Democratic candidate for Michigan or Florida...they should have followed the rules...cut and dry!

the press has the power to move on from the reverend wright video clips...please do so. religion has no place in politics. debate on issues such as the war, the economy, health care and indeed the future of the country is far more important. you cannot possibly think the United States will base their choice of president on that...i do not think the American people are that stupid.

Hi Erica,

As usual, Anderson Cooper was the first in New Orleans after Katrina, and he's now the first to speak to Obama after the Rev Wright issue. I think Anderson is so brave and adds an element of fairness to a controversy intended to totally derail Obama's campaign. I only hope that most like me who were already supporting Obama will continue to do so and try to rationalize those people who actually think more time spent in IRAQ will quell the violence in the world regarding the US interference in foreign policies of soverign nations.....I guess when Ron Paul spoke about this it wasn't radical enough; and requires Rev Wright's commentary to make a point.

Janet & Lori Ann I agree with you. Obama rejected/denounced the horrible rhetoric – we need to move on to the real issues.

Both Florida and Michigan should respect their voters. Do a revote for gods sakes!! Florida delegates could perhaps be seated accoding to the vote distribution.. but Michigan voters most certainly deserve to have a chance. I think both should be re-voted.

Thank you Erica for your response.

You can tell by my handle, this Michigan thing is kind of important to me. Our Governor and most the Democratic powers are avid Clinton supporters. Obama has to be careful or they will set things up in a way that are sure to favor her.

I'm sure I'll eventually get a chance to really vote. In our first election Clinton at first agreed not to be on the ballot but then did not remove her name after Obama removed his name. I think she and Kucinich were the only dems on the ballot. Most people did not even go to vote. It was very confusing.

Karen – the DNC created the rules – Michigan and Florida broke them. Should that be forgotten? The dem leaders in those states knew the rules and they broke them. They should have to live with their decision.

Florida votes should count. The election was held only five days early if I am correct. Do you really think many voters were going to vote any different 5 days later. Hillary won the votes give the delagates to her along with Michigan. If Obama is a true lover of the country and her people then he should want the voices of these 2 states heard and if he wins then he would have won fairly. I think if he had won the states then he would be wanting a different outcome.

Jacob, you must be getting you info from the Clinton website. Obama has stated that he will absolutely abide by the DNC's decision regarding and revotes with Michigan and Florida. That is their decision to make. Obama at no time has disagreed with a revote.
And for those of you who just cannot willnot let go of Rev. Wright- then don't, I mean- we choose the candidate that works for us, that fits our definition of the right leader, the right stuff in our opinion. I mean really this is your right. So move on already, vote your candidate and get on with- cause you've received the answers about Rev. Wright.. if that speech yesterday didn't do it for you, then you won't get it, you just won't. So good luck with your respective candidates.

Actually, I think it is better that the Republicans will not be able to vote in Michigan if they do have a primary – I know of four people who are republicans but went to the polls in TX just to vote for HRC because they see her as the easiest democrat to beat – if I actually know four of these people, I would guess there were many more.

If MI and Fl get a revote, who's to say that will go smoothly?

Florida has a history....do we want to relive the hanging chad, impregnated chad,etc over and over again?

They broke the rules, it will set a precedent and in future elections, we will see more rogue states!

This war needs to end. It has cost us too much...too many lives...too much money.

The day after Sen. Obama's speech, we're still seeing the most sensational cherry-picked snippets of Rev. Wright 's speeches, and all we're hearing about is the effect of this controversy on Senator Obama's campaign,

I think CNN (and most of the mainstream mediia) is missing a great opportunity.to begin an honest, in depth dialogue about race. Find working class whites and ask them if and why they're angry. Go to a barber shop, beauty shop or someone's dining room table, and listen in on those conversations. Help us all understand why we tend to see things so differently. Bring out the misconceptions we have about each other, and give us the opportunity to learn.

It seems as if what Sen. Obama said in his speech is coming to fruition – that we are returning to our prospective corners, and allowing race to remain the pink elephant in the middle of the room. This country is about to miss yet another opportunity to begin closing the racial chasm.

I know a few of you have addressed some posts to Anderson tonight. Unfortunately, he's not able to blog with us while he's on location. He'll be back online tomorrow night, though

@Sheri Richard: Well said. I couldn't agree with you more.

The candidates did not set the rules in Florida and Georgia. The DNC said that delagates would not count in those states IF the states moved their primaries forward. I know that in Florida at least, the Republicans controlled the process of moving the date forward.

That said, accepting the delegates now, after many did not vote because they knew their vote would not count, is not acceptable.

Why is it that Florida always seems to be the center of these voting problems?

Kurtis, not blaming either candidate.. just wondering why his quote in 2007 doesn't ring true with his current position?

Susan from Michigan,

Question, what if it was agreed that the Delegates were divided 50/50 between Clilnto and Obama and were seated at the DNC convention. Would people in MI be open to that possibility?

Yes, Susan in Michigan,
You're right,.......... I am agree with you....

Yes, Obama, the war has cost us a trillion dollars and thousands of deaths. This is what is important not, Re. Wright's comments. Let's talk issues everybody.

Iraq is a huge issue. I don't think any candidate can say for sure what they will do until they take office and all the facts on the ground are given them to make any big decisions.

I'm so dissapointed with the Sen hillarys tatics. She has really been playing a real bush type of politics. We the american people thought we were going to be in this race for change .But sen clinton has showed us her true colors. she will do and say anything to win. This is not who I would want to be my commander in cheif. someone who'll try and sell you dreams while knowing the rality is different. she has changed faces so many time during this process. I was torn between the two when the race took form,but after listen to her almost be bush like on my home state in which i still live in is fal. the rules are rules .who really stands for change ? people ask yourself is it someone who's been inside wash for years or is it someone with an new a refreshing approach to this beast we call politics.

Sheri, get over it! Obama is not the candidate you all believed him to be. HE IS FLAWED! He has been caught in several inconsistencies. And, he absolutely would love nothing more than to walk away and not be held accountable for his words. To quote the man, "Words are important!"

I think that the openess of Obama will force Clinton to open her campaign to the same type of experience. Again, to me this is just another example of the difference in their style.

No 50/50 split that is the same as not seating them at all.

Clinton and Obama were not the only things on the ballot in Florida. They had many issue to vote on for the state, and that's why they had a large turn out. IF someone didn't vote, then that's too bad, they had a chance, not only for the Clinton/Obama deal, but issues that matter in their state. They should voted just for the issues alone. People can't keep using the excuse that they didn't vote because they didn't think it would count, they had other things to vote on, and should have.

It's true Senator Obama did not cause the voting problems in Michigan and Florida – that was the ineffective leaders of the Democratic party. Clinton is clearly pushing for revotes now because she cannot exceed Obama's delegate and popular vote lead without those two states. That being said, super delegates would have to support her in greater numbers – despite Obama's pledged delegate lead. This is problematic because, given the current controversy, if the sd's support Clinton, it will likely be viewed in racial terms – that the party is stealing the election from a black man. This is true even if the super delegates may well have legitimate reasons for choosing Clinton in this very close contest. I also believe Obama's refusal to try to further a revote in Michigan and Florida to allow democratic voters to try to decide the outcome is misguided. Obviously, he doesn't want to agree to anything that might allow Clinton to catch up in delegates and/or the popular vote. Thus, his interest in preserving his current lead comes at the expense of Michigan and Florida democrats who want to have their voices heard. Obama's statements that he supports the delegates being seated (in accordance with an arbitrary allotment between the candidates), rather than supporting a full and fair vote to take place, indicates that he is not a new kind of politician, just a very good old style politician.

Regardless of the democratic primary rules, is it fair to Florida and Michigan VOTERS to not count their votes? Absolutely not. In Florida, where I am from, Gov. Charlie Crist and his republican legislature should be ousted for playing with our election. I smell a conspiracy.

About re-votes in FL and MI: the deal was made a year before the primaries were actually held. Everyone knew that they were breaking the DNC rules and they did it anyway. Many voters didn't turn out because they thought it wouldn't count. Edwards, Obama and Clinton all signed a statement that they would not actively campaign in those states and that they knew the delegates would not be seated.

If Michigan and Florida are allowed to break the rules this year and then seat the delegates any way then there will be nothing to enforce the rules next cycle.

Obama says that he will abide by whatever the DNC says and is all for a fair solution.

The people of Michigan and Florida should be angry – at the state parties that broke the rules. Vote the bums out!

Michael Ware on top of everything? This is one of the BEST shows ever!

I am becoming very disappointed in CNN's coverage of the democratic nomination/primary process. I feel it is unfair for you to try to picture Obama as a "saint" and Hillary as a "devil". I thought the job of the media was to report the facts and not their opinions.
Since Anderson has spent a day with Obama on the campaign trail...will he also be spending a day with Hillary on the campaign trail? If not then, this will only add to the public perception that CNN is showing great favoritism for Obama.
Obama is playing you all for a FOOL. You all seem to slide right past many comments that he makes that are contradictory. He has begun trying to make the public think he has all this experience, but when you think about it, how could he have 20 years of public political experience when he is only 46? Wouldn’t he have still been in law school 20 years ago? Where’s his experience on foreign policy, other than “He gave a speech where he opposed the war from the beginning.” If my memory is correct, he wasn’t even a Senator when the decision to go to war was made. So for him to say he opposed the war from the beginning means nothing. If he would have had the opportunity to vote, how do we know he wouldn’t have voted for the war? He really needs to drop that line.
He is the biggest con artist that has ever run for President of the US. I am an educated (Master’s degree) Black American Democrat, earning in excess of 70K per year. There is no way, I would ever vote for him. Should he get the democratic nomination, my vote will go to McCain. My personal belief is that most media experts are Republicans and of course, you want Obama to win, just so McCain can beat him in the general election, because I believe that you all know McCain can’t beat Hillary.

Thanks for the information Ms. Hill. I always thought your clips were previously recorded and that you were not reporting live. I'm impressed.

Of course she "voted for the war." We were ALL ready to kick some terrorist butt. We were ALL lied to about MWD in Iraq.

I think most of us have changed our minds. Why can't she?

Our troops are risking their lives everyday of the week. We hopefully can agree that ALL Americans are standing behind our servicemen and women. Iraq is more than a political issue, it's doing what is best for the Iraqi people and the safety of our soldiers.

Erica: I can tell you that I was undecided as we approached the Michigan primary and I specifically didn't vote on the democratic ticket because I felt the vote would be wasted. Besides that, it was not communicated very well that you needed to vote "uncommitted" until days before the primary. Absentee ballots were already getting turned in. People were "hand writing" in candidates only to find out that those votes would not be counted.

"No 50/50 split that is the same as not seating them at all."

What's ironic is that the final delegate count out of both states would not net Hillary much in the way of elected delegates anyway.

I'm all for whatever the DNC supports too but they & the state legislatures should hurry up and decide already. We've been hearing about this day after day and it distracts from the real issues at stake. The rest of us truly have no control over what Florida and Michigan DID and what they decide to DO.

Lisa from MO. The issue is that he has bad judgement and has lied about hearing the pastor make comments. Obama has no ideas of his own, no substance and not qualified. His judgement is not stable and he wants it NOW and HIS WAY. I think he knew some of this stuff was going to come out that is why he wanted Hillary to withdraw early on.

Micheal Ware is awesome. He lays it all out. No pretense, no spin. Very refreshing. A little nervewrecking that he is embedded with the troops but he can handle it

Dear Anderson:

I am watching AC360 andI can see the small scar on your face! Thanks for being candidate to tell inform us that you had a small operation to remove some cancer! I wish you continued excellent health and please stay out of the sun!!! I know how much you love the outdoors and nature...but please make sure to protect your skin!

I continue to love your show and your style...truley, you are one of a kind!

Your biggest fan,

Raghida

David Gergen is right. Democrats need to be careful how to pull out of Iraq.
I really don't think it can be done without hard feelings.

Sen. Obama gave a very good speech today about Iraq/terrorism, but he needs to keep giving speeches – one about Energy, one about Education, Healthcare, etc. one by one, so he can satisfy the undecided voters who are concerned about where he stands.

He has a lot of substance, but you can't tell it by the typical sound bytes that are shown on the news programs. More speeches on actual real issues is the only way to get the media to turn away from all of this pastor nonsense.

One more point – There are a number of critical issues that NO ONE is talking about, neither the candidates or the media.

I'm sure Michael Ware will have a very valid opinion on what the next steps should be for Iraq. If I were one of the presidential candidates, I would get his perspective...

How exactly do you become a president who "won Iraq"? What is the definition of "winning"? I'd much rather be a loser, if it means saving lives and stopping the hemorrhage of funds.

Michael Ware is right. We cant pull out all together or there will be bloodshed littering the ground. that is obvious. look at the truth people.

Wow @ the video of inside Tibet. Crazy!

All the candidates & the states knew what the DNC rules were before FLA & MICH moved the primaries. It was the republican Governor who changed the law and the elected folks let him without a fight. So the people needs to look at the people they put in office and no where else! Why are people saying that Clinton won when the candidates campaigned in those states but Clinton? Revote is not fair to anyone (Edwards)! Clinton needs to stop- when she was winning they shouldn’t- now she is losing they should –flip flop. If they change the rule there will be a lot of fall out because it’s not right. The Clintons always want to change the rules to fit them! There’s her being divisive, those papers she released today do they really support her statements about her experience or say nothing at all and where are the tax paper for 06?

I agree with David Gergen that Iraq is going to cause problems for the Democrat if he/she becomes President.. but I think they need to make the case to us that America is choosing the lesser of the 2 evils. We can't stay in Iraq forever.

It's amazing how taboo it is talk about race in a country that was built in large part on the foundation of slavery! I am laughing at so many of these "used to be Barack supporters," these people saying how they supported him until race became a factor. They supported him UNTIL he gave? the republicans ammunition. They had ammunition from the moment he decided to run for President. Wake up! He was going to have to address race sooner or later. If you have such little faith in him that he would not see all this coming and be strong enough to deal with it, then you have not researched him enough and certainly need to join the McCain camp.

I have no problem that someone would ask questions about statements such as those of Pastor Wright's. Not all, but some of them were wrong and misguided. I think it should be addressed and understood IN ITS ENTIRETY. I think it should be analyzed from a place of sincerity and truthfulness. Why? Because of the LONG history of racism in this country. Does it surprise you that some feel this way. Wow, you should leave your front porch a little more often!

That some are shaken up and buying into some FOX clown's campaign to turn Obama into a "racist", as if that were possible, is beyond me!

I usually watch your show and was doing so this evening. I was shocked that DeeDee Meyers, as one of your panelist, commented that Barack Obama did not put his hand over his heart during the Pledge of Allegiance. Where has she been all of this time? I have heard him say, as many others have also said, that the picture of him where he did not put his hand over his heart was taken during the singing of the Star Spangled Banner and not of the Pledge of Allegiance. And, she is discussing how the comments of Barack's minister are going to impact his campaign?

I have been following the story about Rev. Wright and his comments. My question is why aren't the media sources commenting on the actual issues that Rev. Wright brought up. Such as Mendela, foreign attacks on other countries, etc.

The media should look at the whole context of the sermon, rather then taking his words out of context.

The biggest issue is not the violence in Iraq but the fact that the Government that we the US helped to form along with their constitution and their election has refused to step up to be a government.

Why hasn't the government started to rebuild their country. Restoring electricity 24/7, running water. There is alot of oil money in Iraq. I expect to see cranes, I expect to see infrastructure building. This Iraqi Govt. is a joke. Our troops are not construction workers or contractors. The Iraqi Govt has to step up period. Are they that stupid. Does this Govt. want a civil war. I am starting to think that maybe the current government is using us. The longer we stay there more they sit on their rearends doing nothing. They have not met any political milestones that we have set.

We don't need to have 140,000 troops but we will have some troops remain. I think the withdrawl will force the Iraqi Govt to get off their butts and govern.

Anderson

I like Barrack Obama. He makes me feel good when he talks. He is very smart. I think he has a lot of leadership ability. BUT, I do not think that he should be given a cake walk to the nomination by the media. I believe that you and CNN have done nothing but served up softballs to him. Your questions are not to the point. Example: He says he is the only one who will get us out of Iraq immediately. Yet , in the same breath, he says Senator Clinton is being disenjenous because she will not say she will listen to the Generals. I think he is having it both ways because he is very glib of tongue and does not have an equal in the media that will call him on it. Also, I do not think giving him hours of press coverage in prime time and then saying that Senator Clinton would not abide by your rules so she does not get equal time is anwhere near fair. Come on, you are either smarter than this or you need to find another job. The only good political pundit on TV at the present id David Gergin..SP? (If you could clone him by a factor of ten we would all benefit).

I am a HUGE fan of CNN, and especially Anderson Cooper and Erica Hill. But I am becoming increasingly exasperated with the reporting of Jeremiah Wright's "personal political commentaries" that have nothing to do with Obama's political views. I thought this was America and we had a right to free speech? But that's beside the point. Can't you move on? Obama's answered the press and denounced Wright for what he said, but how can Obama pivot to the real issures of the campaign when you keep asking him questions about it?

Furthermore, as much as Hillary claims to be a victim of the media’s hardball tactics, she's gotten off relatively easy considering she and Bill have a major campaign finance fraud trial coming up in California. Why has CNN chosen to not talk about this??

The voters have a right to know about this and consider it when choosing their candidate. This to me is more newsworhy than whether Obama wears a flag lapel pin or not!

AMEN FL Democrat!!!

PLus here are a few more things to ponder

At this point to me the only thing that can be done that is anywhere close to fair is split the MI & FL delegates evenly. This way you will at least have the delegates from these states at the convention. I’m not saying I think this is fair, because it doesn’t give the voters in either state a chance to really vote what they feel.

However, the voters in both MI & FL should have been paying attention in the 1st place. The DNC laid down the law in the fall of 2007 and prior to that there was buzz about this rule being put in place for ANY state to go against the DNC. They had the option to write, call and even march or do a sit-in at their respective state Capital’s starting last fall. If nothing else they should have taken action in Dec and early Jan. It is there responsibility to keep up with the political actions in their local governments and state legislature. If they are not happy or feel disenfranchised they need to take it out on their local & state officials at the polling place. Vote the idiots out that took these actions in MI & FL.

The outlook on Iraq's future is so bleak. with an immediate troop pullout... I bet the Democrat elected for president will change their opinion on that right after the election.

Good blog-Goodnight and Goodluck...

enjoyed the show tonight. Jam-packed and thought-provoking! Thanks, 360! Good night!