Right On Mayor Nutter!!!!!!
I respect his words and his choice.
At least he has decided!

I am an undecided voter, democratic voter.
I feel torn between the two candidates. Love and
respect Obama. Love and respect Hillary.
Split, right in two. Even bought two bumper stickers, but
have not decided which one to put on my car!
My turn to vote is coming up (Oregon). I think I’m the
voter Obama and Hillary are speaking directly to.

And, cheers for Mayor Nutter, who has decided!!! I envy him.

Kind Regards,
Undecided in
Oregon

Hurray for mayor Nutter for supporting a candidate because of shared beliefs rather than gender or race. I am a white female who is supporting Barack Obama because I agree with his beliefs as a candidate, regardless of what he looks like.

Hi Randi,
I think every single person deserves to vote how he or she chooses to vote. I think it’s no one’s business how anyone votes. It’s a decision, that each of us must make for ourselves.

Lorie Ann, Buellton, Calif.

Well hey..i’m black..i dont like watermelon, collard greens or chiltins(love me some fried chicken though).. but i still dont want Hillary!..In the astronomical event that she’s nominated I would HAVE to vote for her(holding my nose and OD’ing on Dimenhydrinate)does anyone have any malt liquor?

OBAMA 09/DEMOCRATS 09!!!!!

I am trying to find a place to comment that I think Candy Crowley is too heavily gearing her commentary to favor Clinton. You need a balance to her.
Sorry the mayor remains committed to Clinton. A person who can’t change his mind when the candidate has lied again and again, after the commitment was made, is disturbing.

Good for you Mayor Nutter. That the way to look at things.

He is absolutly right.i am a supporter of obama but people have the right to choose their candidate.it should not be about the race.Obama will win any way so no need for someone who does not think so.

It’s not bad blood because of the Fattah thing, it’s simply a very practical move on Nutter’s part. Rendell is for Hillary/Bill and owes a lot to both of them. Now is time for payback. So, anyone in the PA Democratic party who wants ANY help from Rendell, MUST support Hillary or else.
Rendell is a bull and will kill any chance Nutter has of helping Philadelphia if he doesn’t tow the Rendell line and stump for Hillary. Simple as that.
Nutter’s no dope; he’ll stump for Hillary but he will vote for Obama.

I think very highly and respect a black man in such a position to shrug off the pressures of others to question his endoresement for Hillary. Maryor Nuttrer is obviously a man of his word and respects Hillary’s attributtes, experience and her track record. Why must the media continue to mock such findings when it affects Hillary? I am so sick and tired of seeing the smirks and sarcasm and negative debates against Hillary. This is why so many “if Hillary’s fans have threatened not for vote at all for the party if she doesn’t get the
nomination, because of how the media continues to humiliate her.
Enough alright!

If he chooses to side with Clinton or not, it’s his choice. As Clinton said it herself, “…it’s only one vote”. However, I have growing scepticism of Clinton due to her stories and under the table deals that shows double standards and desperation to add one more delegate, even if it means to compromise her honesty.
First, it was “experience”, but it failed because it was empty inside
Then, the “Gender/Race”, but it was too lame to even be considered a case
Then, it was the NAFTA, the agreement she praised as the “best”. Surely it proved to be the Worst
Then, the “Hospital story”, and it failed because Hillary was faced with truth.
And as of Sunday, she’s into “looks and how long it takes to get ready”. How much lower can a person go?…one advice for you, Hillary R. Clinton….GET A LIFE and have a nice day…:)

While it may be true that some blacks are supporting Obama solely because of his race, it’s a little unfair and too simplistic to assume they all are, which appears to be what many people believe.

Thank you for this. I am a Clinton supporter, but at the start of the campaign I would have voted for Obama if he had won the nomination. Now, I am not so sure, especially after the overwhelming support in the Afro-American community started going in one direction (after S.C.). I wish this group had honestly asked themselves the same questions while in the voting booth in the many primaries since.

Mayor Nutter’s comments sum up the whole thing for me as well. Although, I alway use the phrase that this is not an election for the “PTA Presidnet”. It is not that Obama is a man of color, it is that he has not the experience yet to truly lead this Country. I only wish Obama would gain more expereince first and ran in the next election.

What is the “watermellon’ refrence all about? This was a very distateful way to appease your right leaning readers. Shame on you idiot boy!

Cooper, Please join the fox news, you try to bring race issue here. we have a lot problem than race. the man he wants to endorse HRC period. he have absolute right to do that nothing else, don’t twist things here. there are a lot of things you should to focuse instead of who endorse who.

from mpls.

There is no friends or foe’s in politics, only interest and i guess he is safeguarding his interest while returning the favor back to Mr Obama.

Excuse me? I have no understanding of how in 2008, a national news organization would use such a headline. Man oh man! Oh, wait a minute, I see. You are making the very interesting point that informs us that “endorsements and watermelons” are very different things. Wow, CNN you outdo yourself with every genius headline!!!

Yup, would not want to consider changing your mind when Hillary is caught outright telling lie after lie after lie. Might tell you a little something about what the endorsement is actually for. More of the same old way of doing things. Watch out for the snipers when your in Canada saying ignore what i say about NAFTA and then blaming it on the other side.

As a black american and female, I endorse HC for the same reasons as the mayor. We are not puppets who allow others to dictate whom we vote for because of one’s race. As a fact, I am embarrassed and insulted that the majority of people voting for Obama do not understand poltics or the major issues facing this country at this juncture. Slogan and riddles are not enough for me. My fellow americans, have you noticed that Obama did avail himself in New Orleans for The state of the Black Union and in Memphis for MLK tribute, and we want to make excuses for the candidate. There are many messages here that we need to be cognizant of before we blindly support someone based on skin color.

It means that he is free to support whomever he chooses. I, a Black woman and a Sen. Obama supporter, respects Mayor Nutter in his decision.

And he is right, it should not be about race, it should be about who you believe is best for America.

Not all Black men are inexperienced just Obama.
People vote for experience not ego, not a preacher, a do-er.

Mayor Michael Nutter, can vote Hillary Clinton, that is his right, we see many voters and supporters, making the same mistake. To have a Commander in Chief, to be Ready on Day One, would be a person of character, to Stand Up unders Pressure, and Fight fair, not Lie, or Slander a person, but have the ability to bring People of all races, and economic background to work together for change NOW! Real Leaders by Example- Hillary Clinton, has to much change, drama, and LIES.

Dorothy
Oklahoma

There are a lot of people holding their breath not knowing how they are going to be viewed when Hillary loses.I could not belong to a party that could fight like this then kiss ank make up the next day.

I do wonder why the media does not ask the white politicians why they are not backing Hillary Clinton in the same way the media almost assume all black politicians should back Obama. It is racist.

I wonder why the media does not question Superdelegates and politicians as to why when Hillary won their state, they are not backing Hillary Clinton. You all are making a point and agreeing with the Obama campaign that if he is in the lead he should win although he will not have the 2025 and in addition, the media seems to agree that because Obama won a certain state all of those Superdelegates should back him.

The media is too biased for Obama and that is why a majority of Hillary Clinton’s supporters will not vote for Obama if he should win the nomination. We are tired of you all blaming Hillary for everything and praising Obama for everything.

His race speech sucked and was pandering to the higest degree, yet, the media is all fawing and swooning over him. It is a childish display by the media.

In restrospect, it would have been wise for Obama not to have endorsed Chaka Fattah for mayor of Philly! as a rule, it’s not easy for to endorse a candidate who did not accord you the same preference.

He should not be pressured to vote for Obama. I am a Black Man and I am a supporter of Obama but I believe everyone should be able to chose who they want to chose. He must can’t see the lies that are built up around Hillary Clinton compared to Obama. Just the other day Hillary Clinton said she oppose the war before Obama, go to factcheck and see whose lying again. American people have to be fed up with sories and lies. We are sick and tired of these Bush tactics that’s why I am voting for Obama. At least he will give you a fare answer and admit to things he is wrong about not like Clinton who gives excuses. We must stand up for this country if not we wil all be in trouble. Everybody love the Clinton days but this is not that era and the Clintons had a lot of skeletons in the closet.

It is disappointing to keep hearing about these black super-delegates and black elected officials getting so much pressure from the black candidate to endorse and support him in an election that he says has nothing to do with race.
If it is not about race, then quit playing the race cards.
Bud Curtis
Miami, OK

I, personally, think Nutter is a punk. He knows truly what is up, he is, as stated, trying to deal with his bruised feelings.

wow. that almost sounds honest. wouldnt it be great if all politicians were like that?
Democrats for Mc Cain ‘08

I sense that for Nutter its an opportunity for payback on Obama. In light of all the recent discoveries about Hillary’s not so stellar performances both in the present and the past, Nutter has got to know that the Witch is dead or soon to be.

I did some backgroung on his opponent Chaka Fattah. I think I would have voted for him also.

Finally! Someone with integrity! Great job Michael Nutter!

Nutter is in a difficult position. I admire him for being loyal to his commitment and also committing to support Obama when Obama becomes the nominee.

Nutter is definitely a “NUT”. Nutter’s comment about the fried chicken and watermelon is down right ignorant. He definitely wants to be something is not. Well I have a newflash for him….Not matter how much his desire is not to be black, he can’t change that. And as far as the chicken and watermelon goes………..He will be eating it again and soon as they kick him out of the house and back in the fields. Wow!!! I haven’t seen a modern day Tom like Nutter in a long time.

There are strong intelligent people in the United States of America, were the color of ones skin doesn’t matter. They look at the candidate, experience, straights, substance and solutions to get the job done. Sorry, there are though who would belittle someone because they did not follow the crow. Thet say this is not a run to the White House based on race, well to some it is!

Congratulations to this courageous man who is setting a fine example for everyone. He must be under intense pressure like other black politicians that support Hillary . He is voting on the candidate and has faith in their positions and solutions to our problems. He is not voting on the basis of race. Too bad alot of other people could not follow his example.

Anderson, I must say that I have always admired your news program AC360 but lately you have turned me off and seems like you should be working with the Fox network. I do not know if your program manager tells you and the others at CNN to keep on the race factor in the presidential campaign and no all black people do not eat “fried chicken” nor “watermelon” and one other thing all black people are not voting for Barack Obama because he is African-American. Get this, the mayor of Philadelphia is entitled to endorse whomever he wants regardless of color, so please you, Lou Dobbbs, Wolf Blitzer, Cameron Brown and all of you at CNN start respecting African-Americans. You can start by showing respect for their decision making when it comes to politics and stop stereotyping their intelligence about race. Warm regards.

I agree that people are free to choose who they would like. The issue comes in when people make it personal. I voted for and fully support Sen. Obama for who he is as a candidate. Democrats remember everything that is said about the other party is being recorded to be used against us in the General Election. Please regardless of who receives the nomination; ask yourself do you REALLY want four to eight mores years Regan, Bush, Sr, and Bush Jr. leadership in the White House? I feel bad just for typing those words. Let me get that image out my head by going online and contributing $100 to the Obama 08 campaign.

Umm… actually Ted Kennedy DID get pressure from feminist organization NOW because he didn’t back Hillary and that he should have backed her because she is a woman. And I really hope he isn’t insinuating that Obama has been saying “Vote for me, I’m black!”

Aside from that, good for him for sticking to his decision.

Personally speaking, none of this makes sense to me. You have an African American Male running for President of the United States and all anyone wants to talk about is Race and his inflammatory ex pastor. Even here Endorsements, Watermelons has a racial overtone. It’s unfortunate that we keep coming back to this. I’m really disappointed with CNN in that we have not yet been able to elevate this campaign to the best interest of the American people and cover the issues that matter to most people in times of such uncertainty. I could care less that Michael Nutter endorsed Clinton rather than Obama. In my humble opinnion, if Nutter can justify all of the negative campaigning, Nafta support, various mispeaks, and flat out hypocrisy of his Candidate, then more power to him, that’s what being an American is all about. Can we please cover what these politicians have to say on the issues for crying out loud!

America, listen this man, he speaks truth, black people don’t vote for a black person because he or she’s black… they do vote on issues just like white people…nothing more, and nothing less, of course now if white people just vote for white people just because there white, America, athan Obama’s speech on race was correct…there have been other blogs, with white people saying that they will not vote for Obama, because they can’t see other white people calling him Mr. President, , ooothers have said the white house is no place for a black man, that’s why it’s called the white house.. somethings will nevr change in America, and race is one of them, some white people, notice I said some, not all, feel an entitlement just because their white.

It would be nice to live in a United State, I hope that it would happen in my life time.. wishful thinking huh…..just imagine a nation that is truly a great nation….and not just that propagandar crap, some would say leave it, you don’t have to be here…people aren’t you tired of that same old mess….we live in the greates country in the world,, but even now we still habor hate for others who are different, tell how great is that..
because of that this country, my home will continue to destroy its self from within………it should be call a hypocrite nation, what is America, it sounds good when you read it on paper, but you need to see what’s in it’s people’s heart…hatered, hatered, for all things and people that are different….status quo…………

Watermelons…for real Mr. Cooper? You couldn’t find another fruit? Apples, organges, grapes…hell a papaya?

i am a black american and i do not support obama. we black people have a mind to think for ourselves. i dont listen to jesse jackson or oprah winfrey to tell me how to vote. i think its stupid to vote for a candiate just because he is black. if obama was two shades black the whites wouldnt vote for him,because he would be consdiered th angry black man. if obama was not in this campaign, hillary clinton would get the black vote. i vote on issues and not race.

IS IT ADMIRABLE to stick to with a candidate who obviously has integrity issues to the detriment of ones constituents?

It is not about pride, it is about doing what is right.

And since the word of Clinton cannot be trusted-

HOW DOES HE OR ANY OTHER SUPERDELEGATE JUSTIFY THEIR

LOYALTY???

Why do you guys (i.e., the media) keep focusing on black officials who endorse Clinton? I don’t recall ever hearing anything from you when a prominent white official endorses Obama. Are you implying that blacks can’t endorse someone who they believe to be a better candidate if that candidate isn’t black? I’m a black person who supports Obama. I don’t particularly care for Clinton. In fact, I would vote for McCain before I would voter for her (integrity counts in my book). However, I completely understand and respect others who prefer Clinton, regardless of her race. Please, stop putting race front and center. There are so many other issues that are much more important.

anderson why because obama is black black people have to vote for them what type of question is that , Iam a blackman who is supporting hillary clinton cnn never seem to amaze me with biased comments you have because he is black i have to vote for him i don’t need cnn picking a candidate for me like you are trying to do let the people make up there minds they dont need you a making there minds up anderson you talk about keeping them honest why don’t cnn keep it neutral for a change which you are not doing the reason i watch cnn is because lou dobbs least he don’t show sides shame on you anderson i though you were better than this but you know better than angry jack cafferty who let’s known that he hate hillary wolfe blitzer and one other thing hillary is running not bill so please stop saying the clintons, cnn, fox, msnbc, will cause obamma to lose in the gen elect i know a lot of people who will stay home this nov i for one will so don’t for min we will unite i don’t think so please print this besause it’s the truth.

Hooray for the right answer. Support the candidate of your choice because you think they’ll be the best for the job. I don’t give a hoot about having a WOMAN president or a BLACK president. I happen to be supporting someone for PRESIDENT who happens to be black. And those supporting Hillary should be supporting someone for PRESIDENT who happens to be a woman.

The media be damned for making race so important.

Why is all this talk all the time about eating fried chicken and eating watermelon supposed to be racist. I am a white 68 year old male and I along with millons of other white Americans have enjoyed chicken and watermelon all our lives. In fact I eat chicken twice a week.

Does that mean I have black genes in my body. Come on give up that old stuff.

Go Obama

Nutter has big plans for the city of Philadelphia, and he thinks Hillary is key to getting those plans accomplished. His buddy Ed Rendell gained a lot of success during Bill’s Presidency, so Nutter is hoping for the same. This guy Nutter is an opportunist, and he’s trying to gain name recognition by backing an established brand. Too bad it will not work out that way.

Obama 08.

It is not about race. It is about there track record. Him and Obama had 10 year records in the legslature. Both were reform candidates outside the Pary Powerhouse. Nutter was a peoples favorite in Philadelphia because he was an outside candidate. It is not about his election in the General, but his election in the primary that people should focus on. Both him and Obama have strong records on Campaign finance and influence reform. While his competitors tried to skirt the campaign finance laws he outraised them by a large network of small donors. They are almost Identical polititians, but Obama endorced one of Nutters rivals in the Primary, and paybacks, well….

I’m an Obama supporter and I really respect the mayor; I think it’s in poor taste for the media to ask African-Americans if they feel pressure to support Obama. I feel like race isn’t an issue for anyone but the media.

As for Obama we are waiting for Nutter’s support after Obama’s nomination OBAMA 09

I think that Mayor Nutter is entitled to vote for whomever he pleases for whatever reasons. If he feels Clinton is a better candidate than he is correct in endorsing her. However, in choosing her, it sends the message (at least to me personally) that he does not value the opportunity of the first African American as president of the US. Its clearly not important to him. Does that make his choice of Clinton wrong? Not at all. But its a shame that he fails to use his standing in the political arena to help advance a community that he personally belongs to.

Nutter is a good man who made a good choice to support a good woman. A good example to us all.

Think how much more civilised we would be Anderson, if such a question would be nothing more than an absurdity. That we continue to beat this, what to me is a “dead horse”, is very sad, and shows how
far we have yet to go on the road to being an educated nation. We do not learn quickly, but hang onto our ignorance, for dear life.

He sounds really bitter and the fried chicken and watermelon response is unbelievable. Not every black person is voting for Obama bc he is black. This is a reflection of what he thinks about black people, he thinks they are ignorant. To just assume black people ignore what the candidates stand for is total rubbish. He is just playing a game bc Obama did not back him in the mayoral race.

funny how, in a piece dealing with race, cnn focused on Nutter’s use of “watermelon” for their title.

well not ‘really’ funny.

Everyone should vote their heart. Why does everything have to be about race? Back off MSM. Some people don’t consider race when they choose their favorite. Is that too hard to understand?

I’m a 54 year old white woman who supports Barack Obama. That’s not really interesting to the media, is it? This contest transcended race until the media ruined it by making every little comment race related. Do you take any responsibility media people?

I really respect Mr. Nutter, This race should not be about race!!! Eventhough I disagree with his choice (Hillary), his reasoning is absolutly correct. We should judge people by their character not by thier color of skin. And what is wrong for whites should be wrong for blacks. he has the same right to support any candidate as senator Kennedy.

To understand Michael Nutter you have to know his history, he is so out of touch with the majority of African Americans Philadelphia. He “only” won his election because he is an African American in a mostly Democratic African American City and for no ohter reason; however he being so gullible and detached from the people of this city he “truly” believes what he is saying. Unfortunatley than man hasn’t got a clue, and yes he did feel slighted by Senator Obamba’s lack of endorsement. Please consider he has worked directly with U.S. Rep. Chaka Fattah. It doesn’t take genius to understand the endorsement.

He is correct however that all African Americans do not eat fried chicken and watermellon.

I’m not too sure about this. I voted for Michael Nutter and I am a little suprised that he has endorsed HIllary Clinton. It’s not because of the race issue but because he seems to be a very honest and selfless guy. That is the complete opposite of HIllary Clinton and everything that she represents. I hope he hasn’t just endorsed her because Barack helped out his opponent. To me that is as bad as voting for someone just because of their race or gender. We need to support whoever will do a better job at running the country.

Obama and his African - American people and God willing that Nutter avoids and evades the commitment or responsibility of the African - American people and Nutter mince the truth about all African - American. Believe it or not Obama this lessens the vote for whom.

Looks like this guy will be one and done! Mayors definately should not go against their constituents

Good for Mayor Nutter for standing by his choice despite the fact that it might not be the most popular decision or what is expected of him as a black American. More people should adopt his attitude towards choosing a candidate based on where they stand on the issues versus personal relateability.

Also glad to hear he’ll do the right thing and fall in step to support Obama when the time comes.

Why is this even a story? Come on CNN get with it and talk about the issues.

Aren’t we trivializing the candidates by talking about race as a reason to endorse someone. I am a strong Obama supporter, and a white person. I would be deeply offended if someone asked me to justify why I support a black candidate. Let’s move on to more important issues.

I cannot believe the bias toward Hillary Clinton. She is the best person to lead this country. I will back her until the end. The media has strangled her, and they want blood. I will never watch Chris Matthews, and my favorite of all times, Keith Oberman because they have what is almost a seemingly personal vendetta toward her. If Hillary does not get the nomination, it is because of the media. I will back the Democrat whoever, but I am disgusted with the news. When JFK ran, I was too young to vote, but we, as Catholics, took a lot of prejudice in the work place. I was a Democrat then and always will be, but Hillary is the one to back for the nomination. She has the brains and she has the faith. Faith is what makes her strong.

Nutter has said, “if Clinton does not win the nomination, then the next day I am going to be out there, trying to help Sen. Obama.” Hope to see you soon, Michael. Obama will welcome your support in the General Election.

Mr. Nutter is taking a political risk… He will sink as Sen. Clinton sinks. Maybe he is being vendictive because Sen. Obama endorsed his opponent… Clearly Sen. Obama is a better human being, and a very qualified presidential canididate.

Mr. Nutter is on the wrong side of the fence, and the majority of the voters in Philly, are supporting Sen. Obama… Good Luck at re-election time Mr. Nutter

Anderson, I hope you will cover Sen. Clinton’s mishaps during the weekend such as her over statement of the hospital story and her chief Strategist Penn resigning from his position and was linked to a lobbyist group that lobby white house for Columbia free trade agreement to the same extend you covered Sen. Obama’s pastor’s story..

This is an opportunity for you to be consistent and objective.

Hey Anderson and the readers of the 360 Blog

I just have to say that i am African-American and a Obama supporter and i beleieve that Mayor Nutter is so correct in his thinking right now. Mayor Nutter may be African-American but he is a free thinking American above all. I don’t know anything about him beyond this article but his statements point to logic. However, the question defies logic.

To assume he will vote for Obama simply because he’s a fellow African-American is just not the kind of question i would think we should have to ask in 2008 and in this Presidential race. Obama is proving to the entire world right now that race color creed is no obstacle in the United States of America. Sen. Obama is not in the place he is because of some affirmative action that allows you to be President. He is not the product of racial group think. Sen Obama is a product of progress, of freedom.

I believe if we are to Honor Dr King like CNN has been doing in the past days we must realize how far African-Americans have come. 40 years ago racisim killed a leader, today regardless of race we see a leader being created in Barack Obama.

God Bless America

I really do not trust this guy????? So he’s supporting a white candidate to prove that he is colored blind??? I really think that this could backfire on him…..the issue is the CANDIDATE and how they could assist in unifying his city !!!! Not sure that Hillary with all the issues that her campaign has brought up since So. Carolina nessessarily fits that need. I would question if he has recieved any contributions from the Clinton Machine and if his endorsement is reflective of the majority of his city voters. I’m a white 60 year old white male………….but I think for his own political future he may have made a blunder. Not too late to get a better take on his shooting from the hip decision.

LOSER!

Yeah.Yeah….thats a very good idea to endorsed Clinton as a mayor,when people keep saying race race white or black it will never bring any funture to a great country like American that has multt racial,race or not race.white or not white.black or not black is never a problem the most impotant thing is to unit together and work hard.

Nutter brought up a good point here. You don’t hear any pundits asking white people who support Obama if they feel pressure for voting against their race, and for good reason. It’s a stupid question.

I’m not sure of Nutter’s motive for endorsing Clinton, but he is right in that we should all support the candidate who we believe has the best ideas.

I admire this gentlement. What he said is exactly what we need to educate our young folks about exercising their rights to vote. Electing president of the United State is one of the most priviledge and serious business that voters have. Doing your homeworks, be prepared and knowleged of candidates by facts and records; about what they have done good to the people and to the country rather than their promises and words before casting your ballot. Otherwises, they would easily abuse the power once it is granted. Please be responsible to yourself, your family, and your country before granting your powerful vote.

Well said Mayor Nutter! If Senator Clinton is the cadidate you support, you should stay with the senator until the situation changes that requires your support to someone else.

Obama-Supporter

Referencing “Watermelon” in the title of your article is just plain offensive and the author should have known better, no matter what an interviewee said. How tacky. I’ve always expected better. Guess I’ve been wrong.

Mayor Nutter needs some coaching. Inferring that a less intelligent African American eats fried chicken and watermelon was considered an offensive term when used in context to individual thinking. It was also primarily used by people to stress the point that you probably could not accomplish both. His statement that not all “black folks eat fried chicken and watermelon” assumes that he believes that there are only a few enlightened blacks that have transcended the slur and can now think on an individual basis. He appears to have accomplished a lot with his career and should be proud of his accomplishments, however, it would do him well to put down his philly cheese steak sandwich long enough to smell the chicken. He might just get to like it.

I am black and I have decided to support Hillary. If she does not win
I will support Obama. If rice runs with John McCain I will give it some
thought but it is not likely I will switch.

Why can’t we just with people we want to and stop the assumption that one is going to vote his race. This is America. We are one Human race. In every race there are exceptional people. No one is
perfect. Hillary does not have any more baggage than the others. If
she did, why have we had so many possibles to fall by the wayside and she is still standing? I want my president smart and tuff woman or man. But, just this time I hope it is a WOMAN.

It’s nice to see him voting for Hillary and not Obama because of her experience and belief she’d make a better President and NOT basing who he supports simply because a candidate has the same skin color as they do. Unfortunately a lot of African Americans are voting for Obama because he is African American. And whites are voting for Hillary because she is caucasian. When 85+% of African Americans seem to be voting for Obama because of his skin color more so then anything else about him, it’s just the wrong reason to vote for someone. I’m gay and I wouldn’t vote for someone simply because they’re gay. I vote for who I think would do the best job fixing our country’s problem, not myself, but our nation as a WHOLE. There are more important things to consider when voting someone then just yourself! If Obama gets the nomination I’m most likely voting for McCain.. And I’m gay!!!!

I’m very impressed. This man has honor which is very refreshing. He looked at the issues and the candidates and made a choice based on who he thinks will do the best for this nation.

Who cares? Let this person endorse whoever he wants. He’s not going to hurt Obama by endorsing Hillary. This is not about voting for Obama because you are black it’s about the issues and concerns of this country and how we can go about fixing it. I am whole heartly a Obama supporter, after all we need someone that we can trust in the White House, Hillary is not that person as far as I see. She Lies and it’s been proven more than once that she is not a honest person. The Clinton’s will do anything to get the white house again, it’s sad especially since this country is in such a sad state. Obama is the change we need

Obama 08

As a black man who’s a strong Obama supporter (and not a Philly resident), the mayor has it absolutely right. The media persist in viewing everything through the prism of race. Back when Sen. Clinton was way ahead in black support, we heard Sen. Obama wasn’t black enough. Now we have the implicit conclusion that blacks are supporting him only because he’s black. Yes, it’s nice to see the American Dream come true, but that didn’t stop me from supporting Sen. Dodd till he dropped out and would not now stop me from supporting Sen. Obama were he as white as an Arctic snowfall. Perhaps the media might consider the revolutionary concept that both Mayor Nutter and I, though black, might somehow choose to support the candidate we think best, and may even disagree on who that candidate is.

Why do people assume that just because you are black you have to support Barck Obama, what ever happened to not judging people by the color of their skin but by their character? Is it possible that maybe some people feel that Sen. Clinton would make a better choice for President without having a motive for it, I’m so sick of everything becoming about race, what ever happened to discussing the issues.

We shall see Mayor. I feel sorry for this Mayor because he is on the wrong side this time.

AC,

He is merely obeying his boss Ed Randall. He must’ve told him like he did in Pittsburgh that if he has any aspiration of becoming a senator or congressmen, he should listen to him and endorse Hillary the lier.

As a Philly resident, I can say that for us, the choice was clear. Nutter was the best candidate with the best vision for our city. So far, he has done well, though this is just his first year. I can say, that though some of his remarks do seem a bit pointed, for the most part he’s right. I wouldn’t want him floundering on his choice. Once you commit, commit. and I don’t think it’s fair to push Blacks to vote for him ONLY because of his race. Unfortunately, that is going to happen in this country in any race where a Black person is running until a Black person actually gets elected. Go figure. Race still matters, who knew?

Nutter is smarter than your average Philadelphia black politican and has probably made the calculation that Obama will lose PA, where the “diverse” urban electorate still can’t outweigh the old conservatives who dominate this agricultural and Rust Belt state.

As a die hard Obama supporter, I believe Mayor Nutter has the right to endorse whomever he pleases. Just because he is African American should have absolutely nothing to do with it. NADA. However…there could be bruised feelings as you stated…but that too…is his right to ‘his feelings’. Leave the guy alone…everyone.
Obama 08

You’re a little punk mr. Nutter.

Nutter is sour grapes…you don’t support me so i don’t support you. Just like the campaign for high school president that he denies. I am embarrassed for him. He should be ashamed to utter such words. the position of mayor is no comparison to that of president. I have NO respect for him whatsoever. In the end, he will have to honor Obama as Commander-in-Chief because his candidate is the loser and it is more evident each day.

(African Americans should automatically be endorsing Barack Obama)
That’s why we think Barack Obama and the people that’s support him is racist.

What about if white people say that’s white people should automatically
endorsing Hillary so, what is the media going to say?

You are racist too……..Michael Nutter.

I think Americans elect some body to be President of the United States we need to select the one stand for Americans not just black have to vote for black and white have to vote for white only Michael.

Is it just me or is the title of this thing really quite offensive?
Best,
Ben

Looks as i Nutter is a safe man no matter who wins. Its politicans like him that make America weep. Respect comes from makng a stand, right or wrong. Nutter needs to learn what it takes to be a good man, then he might make a good mayor. This guy could not be elected dog catcher in Texas.

I’m an Obama supporter, but I agree 100% with Nutter’s statements. Support for one candidate or another *should* have nothing to do with race - it shouldn’t even enter the picture.

Nutter believes that Hillary is what is best for the Democratic Party and even though I disagree, I respect his freedom to make that choice based on any criteria.

why isn’t Nutter supporting Obama? its payback - plan and simple. Obama endorsed Nutter’s rival when Nutter ran for Mayor.

duh!

The race is not about gender or race. Why is everyone trying to make it so?

Unless your going to pressure all whites to vote for Hillary, I don’t see the point in this story. Are you suggesting that all blacks should vote for Obama because he is black?

Since he is half white, half black, I guess we should probably either all be twisted with angst or all ok with supporing him or not.

How stupid to even suggest such a thing, we seem to be moving back to segregation as fast as we can go. How complety stupid to pressure him to support someone because of the color of their skin alone.

I agree with Nutter. I don’t see lots of people expecting women to support Hillary just because she is a woman. There is lots of analysis of whether whites are more likely to voter for her though. I think the reporters are so fixated on race they just can’t think beyond that. It’s getting to be a tired subject.
White (just in case you were wondering) woman for Obama

Why is this a story? Why aren’t you pressing Hillary to release the list of donors to their charity and presidential library along with her earmarks.

Whatever happened to CNN being journalists? You’re favoring Hillary to keep her in the race instead of true reporting.

Pathertic journalism.

I like this guy… he does not fold to the pressure and is making his choice based on information… AC360 needs to start looking into this pressure from Obama supporters… this is not the first time this story has come to light… I believe it happened in Atlanta and again in Ohio… my question is why this is not being reported as much as the behind the lines talk of Clinton supporters to superdelegates…

Obama should be covered just as much as Clinton… it is sad that it took a poll to show that Clinton is getting 47% negative story lines compared to Obama 17%…

I guess a woman really can not get a fair shot in our country!!!

Nutter is playing politics. He likes the fact that the “white” vote in Philadelphia went his way and helped elect him. And, why wouldn’t he. Pennsylvania will go to Hillary over Obama. He can then say he went “with” his constituents. Deep down he is very, very, happy about Obama.

Watermelon?

i say good for nutter. i am a clinton supporter and i agree. i think anyone gets pressure and we shouldn’t. we can make up our own minds. as far as obama, i had my doubts and then like many americans first came his wife and then wright, and that was the end for me!!!

For someone who doesn’t want the race to be about race, Nutter has spent a lot of time trying to deliver black voters to Clinton, a double speak that makes his namesake startling apropos.

I agree with Naomi. If high profile Democrats are scolded for not backing Obama, then that makes the this into an issue of race. Clinton or Obama should win the nomination on merit not race.

I totally agree. Just because the mayor is black doesn’t mean he should support Barrack simply of the basis of his race. If such was the case, Barrack Obama wouldn’t be where he is today. I don’t recall too many African Americans who live in Iowa. Hence, though i’m an Obama voter and an Haitian-African-American, i respect the mayor’s choice and opinion in this matter. On a bigger spectrum, I think it goes to show a broader aspect of our progress in this country. We’re becoming more educated to look above and beyong the color purple.

Long Live Obama!

I wish everyone would think of the candidates as RED BLOODED Americans who have a slight difference of opinion. The whole world is not all Black and White, some of it is Red ALL OVER!

Vote for the Red person of your choice!

Roy-Id

Stop playing the race card Cooper it’s not about race, It’s about principle, standing for what you believe. I am black and I support Hillary.

I don’t understand why Randi Kaye or the rest of the media for that matter is making a big deal about an African-American endorsing a white woman. CNN just wants Mayor Nutter to endorse Obama so it would make Clinton look bad. This media bias is killing me. By the way CNN, the senator of Pennsylvania endorsed Obama because his father hated Bill Clinton. How about that for news.

The Commonwealth is a dirty political machine from Philly to Erie and all points in between. Nutter is under Rendell’s thumb. Rendell wants to be Hills VP and his wife to be put on the Supreme Court.

Interesting that the writer had to mention that he might have bruised feelings. Even when it is clear this man feels Clinton is the best candidate you try to bring in some other reason for his support. Anti Clinton biased reporting is rampant in the media.

He should be able to support whoever he wants. I’m an African American and I would hold no grudge against him if I lived in Philly. In the next election, I would judge him on HIS record as mayor and HIS accomplishments, not for who he supported in some election. Anything less would be an injustice to Mayor Nutter.

He should have picked some better words to use than “fried chicken” and “watermelon”. That was a poor choice of words, although I realize where he’s coming from.

I am an African-Canadian (whatever that means) and I support Barrack Obama but I like Hilary Clinton - despite all her short comings; She is a strong and intelligent woman. I just wish they could stop all this negative campaigning that is making it increasingly impossible for them to have a joint ticket - with Hilary as a vice president of course. It will be a victory for American democracy.

Anderson, I must say that I am kind of disappointed in you; off all CNN programs, yours dwells more on race and gender in this race than any else. You diminish the importance of this election by so doing. Please focus on the issues.

Anderson, We are in a lot of trouble in this country, let’s stick to the Solutions and not Race or Gender. Let’s vote for the BEST WOMAN!!!!! She’ll do the job . Let Barak go back to his Precious Pastor that hates America. I don’t like his Religion, (New Earth)
LM, KY

Thank You Mr. Nutter for crossing gender and racial lines.

So, in other words Mayor Nutter, you think that a pathological liar is the best choice for president. I feel that you endorsed her mainly due to the racial issues (though you say that this is not the reason people should vote for a candidate). You did not want to be labeled as racist so you endorsed Hillary. This is still not good. Do you have plans for the rest of your political career? I happen to know that Philladelphia is Obama country.

The news media knows Americans have a very small attention span so issues like “race” and “gender” will grab readers or listeners attention. The American public has proven itself to be politically lazy and ignorant ,how else do we elect Bush for president twice?

It’s easy for it all to be about race when, among other things, polling begins the second one votes, noting race. Between that and religion, why does this matter, unless that is indeed what it is all about. Polling on race should be illegal, as it only serves to further divide.

Mayor Micheal Nutty of Philadelphia sured not feel under pressure to endorse Barack Obama because of his race. He, like every other political official, should endorse the best candidate of their choice.

Mayor Nutter is absolutely right. It’s rediculous that he should get any pressure for not supporting Senator Obama simply because he’s the black candidate. I’m from Philadelphia and am an Obama supporter and would have loved to have Nutter support his candidacy, but the Mayor needs to support the candidate that he believes will do the best job for the country. That is the only criteria that matters.

It’s articles like this that create problems.

Nutter,

Why do you think people are voting for Obama? Because he is black? How do you jusitfy Clintons story about Bosnia, Ireland, the lies to Ohio about Nafta, her top advisor working for the Columbian goverment? No you should not vote for Obama because he is black. You should vote for Obama because he will put a new face on this country. How does Clinton relate to us blue collar workers? 109 million dollars. Huge donations from foreign goverments? When some investment business from from the middle east wanted to buy our ports and Mrs. Clinton ws against them…remember that? Well she and bill were taking donations and making money off of the same invester. Conflict of interest? How can Hillary say one thing to american public denouncing it and profit from it at the same time?

A politician with a mind of his own and who does not live in a black and white world - refreshing. Kudos to the Mayor

Ted Kennedy can not get pressure from his fellow WHITE man ‘cos we all know it has allways WHITE affair,but just for a chance let try a BLACK man then the BLACK people will burried there RASICM

I understand what Nutter is going through. I am going through the same thing. I am an African American and My entire family with the exception of Myself, My sister and my Brother are Hillary Supporters and they call us sell outs, but the funny thing is we are all parents and we all have young children and all of us seperately always say that we are not voting to make history, we are voting for the future of our children, and we don’t feel that Obama is the person for the job right now, but it is unbelievable how blacks automatically assume that we are supporting Obama, they will start conversations with you in reference to the campaign and ask you how do you think Obama is going to do as if it is a given that I would vote for him, but I could not in good concience vote for him, and I am not interested in making History, I am interested in Healthcare, continued Job Security, the economy, Education, etc.

I think it is wonderful to see aafrican american like michael nutter voting for hillary it takes a brave man to say he is voting for hillary because of her experience and he thinks she would be the best for the job.So many other respectable blacks have been phoned, and harassed to change to obama or else they will not be re-elected. Thank god that people are willing to stand on the rights of a free vote, you are a democracy by the way. obma runs as a canadiate not as a black man he says but his supporters have turned this into all about race. sheild jackson lee was literly booed at a function she was trying to speak at because she was black and voting for hillary/ this is getting to be very nasty and the obama supporters have used intimination far too long.show respect for all people and their chose of who they want.