good evening everyone.. thanks for joining us.. hope you all had a good weekend.

hello everyone!

Life=Fun! Greetings from America’s Desert Playground!

Good Monday evening..My thoughts and prayers go out to the victims of the tornado. We all just never know, when we’ll be a victim of Mother Nature’s force.

Hi Anderson: I’m glad you are going to show longer versions of Jeremiah Wright’s speech. Thanks for not showing soundbites, especially for those of us who didn’t catch it.

Can someone tell me what happens with those “YOUR VOICE” comments on the web cam site?

Hi Anderson, Erica and bloggers…

Hi Anderson,

In Obama’s defence, he is right. Wright doesn’t speak for his campaign.

Good Evening, Anderson, Erica, & Bloggers, Happy Monday, Sounds like a good show tonight.

Hi Anderson, Erica, and Bloggers!
I have good weekend! Thanks Anderson…………..
Wow! that is so bad damage over the places! I heard tornadoes coming now! Please pray for Virginia people……..

Hey everyone,
I’m sitting on needles right now, Rev Wright please promote your book in November.

I will be interested to hear the unedited version of Rev. Wright’s comments. I wonder how many other spiritual advisors of past candidates have said controversial things? It seems like people are blaming Sen. Obama for another man’s thoughts- not what he has said.

My thoughts and prayers go out to those who were injured and their friends and family members.

How can the Clinton campaign ignore how Rev. Wright will affect them if they make the general election? Are they listening to Rev. Wright? An Obama loss and a great number of African Americans will feel that the Democratic Party does not share their interest and will not receive their vote. Save the party Democrats.

It is time Obama ‘disown’ that Reverend, whatever his name is ! I think Obama has lost his nomination. What a shame ! hilary Clinton just got the nomination handed to her on a plate.

“Bimbo erruptions?” Who wrote that?

Pres. Clinton had Bimbo eruptions? Oh my - I’ve never heard that. lol

Rev. Wright seems very arrogant…

I wonder how many other spiritual advisors of past candidates have made controversial statements and how those statements impacted the candidate?

Hi Anderson…What a night of news, Obama’s pastor shooting his mouth again. I feel sorry for Obama at this moment.

Hi AC, never a dull moment eh?
I think Rev.Wright resurfacing is going to hurt Obama enough though the comments dont come from Obama. Obama’s star power is being tarnished by these characters around him. His hope/change message is getting tired.
Hillary is a stronger candidate and has had to prove herself now and over the years. Love her or hate her you have to give her credit for toughing it out when the chips were down.
Is there going to be a solution for FL/MI ? Weren’t there other states that moved up primary but not penalized?
I also think Hillary can beat Mccain on the issues, she knows her stuff. IMO

I watched the Rev. Wright interview with Bill Moyer’s and his speech to the National Press Club…I really like Rev. Wright and what he had to say.

Rev wright may not define the campaign, but many people believe you’re known by the company you keep

Hi everyone. Does anyone know if Obama has any influence over what Rev. Wright is saying?

Does anyone else think Wright is angry at Obama’s disavowing his sermons. Perhaps Wright feels that Obama should have done more to stand up for his relationship to the church rather than trying to distance himself from Wright. Wright seems to be doing everything he can to make sure Obama is not elected.

He went from preacher to comedian??

*sigh* Let me know when Rev Wright’s “15 minutes” are over, will ya?

I find the invasion of the media into Rev. Wright’s life and ministry is bordering on illegal and in violation of civil rights. The church you go to should have nothing to do with running for President. Are we going to follow Rev. Wright to all his speaking engagements from now on? Is he on mouth arrest? My only conclusion of this whole episode is that God wanted to get the truth out through His messenger. God’s will be done.

Good evening folks!…Is it me or is it time for Rev Wright to “dummy up” until after November as Archie Bunker would say?

That part (from Rev. Wright) about the college bands differences was funny though. Cute.

I think Obama’s speech on race said it all…what more can he do? Let the Rev. Wright issue die!

Actually I was quite impressed with Rev. Wright. He is a very well-educated and interesting man - and VERY different. But what is wrong with that. I learned a lot from listening to him - both from a religious perspective and also as an educator I was very impressed by his ability to keep the attention of his audience. His message - why is there so much fear of his message???

I watched all of Rev Wright’s speech. I can’t say hearing it all really helped me understand him more.

He seems crazy too…

I commend CNN for playing the full Rev. Wright comments. it is important to get things in context.

Rev. Wright preaches like many of the evangelical preachers I have heard over the years in both black and white churches

does anyone think these “super delegates” will consider the image Rev Wright may reflect onto an Obama nomination. just askin’

Rev. Wright has a right to defend himself. Why does everybody keep dumping him on Barack Obama? In this Country don’t we have freedom of speech?

Hey there’s Soledad - She’s supposed to be in my city tomorrow giving a wonderful speech.

I’m more interested in what Obama has to say than Reverend Wright.

I was not impressed with Reverend Wright’s statements. (TRASHY!)What are we going to do about Obama? He clearly can not win the presidential nomination. What are the super delegates thinking?? What if… What if…Obama was elected? Do you guys want to see Al Sharpton and Jessie Jackson everyday in and around the white house? What about class… Barrack and Michelle Obama have NO class… Is this the family we want in the white house?

You may not like Rev. Wright’s tone. However, what is he saying that’s not true? Many things that were said were direct quotes of others. He has a right to defend himself. Why does Sen. Obama have to answer for someone else’s comments or behavior?

@ Terri: I agree. At least in Soledad’s report, he comes off as being arrogant big time.

does anyone think that there actually are people who may be offended by wright’s imitation of Kennedy’s accent? Or are only minorities allowed to be offended?

xtina-I think there’s a difference between those you know at your church, at work,etc., and those who you actually take time to share life and socialize with…

Rev. Wright is very …”passionate” isn’t he? I was open minded all throughout this but now having seen him speak in person I have to say he’s turning a lot of people against Mr. Obama. It’s a shame because Wright is not a part of Obama’s campaign but his actions are hurting his candidate.

I had a good weekend but an even better Monday. We got our tax rebate today, lucky enough to have a social security number ending in the low digits!! Thanks GW!!!

But his statements about the College Bands are true.

Anderson,
If you reported this fairly he wouldn’t be doing any damage to Obama’s campaign. I thought his NAACP did show how interested he was in unity and how hopeful he was about the future. So if his appearances could get rid of the faulty image of him it wouldn’t be bad for Obama.

So, do I really have to sit through an hour of the arrogant ramblings of this man Wright?
I don’t see how he or what he has to say is important. CNN pays a ridiculous amount of attention to this pastor. He is not important! I think I’m gonna continue my dvd marathon of “24″ !

Ahhh, Rev. Wright again… If the Rev. didnt think his speech was offensive or hurt anyone ( Obama) why did he “retire” as pastor? Was he planning on retiring anyway?

I’m wondering if any negative media is still GOOD media?

Good evening folks, My thought and prayers goes to the victims of the tornado. As for the Rev. Wright I think he has a sinister reason for all he is doing. He is probably jealous of Obama getting all the attention and he wants to derail his presidential bid.

Good Evening Anderson!!!
Rev. Jeremiah Wright has had enough airtime……..there are so many things important these days to have him in the news all day.
Gas Prices
Health Care
Economy
and the list goes on and on…………….

What about those people in Virgina that have been injured and their homes destroyed, that is news. Please enough of Rev. Jeremiah Wright.

I think Rev. Wright is doing the right thing… He has been attacked by the corporate media, and the cristian republican right

HMMMM, Wright needs to lay off the caffeine drinks!!!

I DO NOT WANT TO listen for four years to Rev Wright if he hangs around the White House

Hi there,

We have a confirmed death. A woman. 200 people are hospitalized, some critical. It is a mess…houses are gone, cars are piled.

We have power, thank God. It was scary.

Just an update…

good evening anderson, erica, & all you great bloggers…looks like a good show tonight….my heart goes out to the people in va.

I think this situation with Rev Wright has gone so far that people will start to separate him from Obama. He’s a lunatic and that does not reflect on Obama in my view.

Why would the reverend hurt Obama on purpose? Does anyone know if he was getting pressured to come out and talk at this point in the campaign?

i think if Rev Wright knew what was good for his pal Obama he would have stayed on vacation after his first comments came to surface!!!!!

Yes Lesli - I think that Rev. Right is doing what he needs to do. I think that he believe that as a pastor he has a message and he certainly has an audience now. And I really think he has done a lot for a lot of people, but right now, he does not see the only member of his audience be Obama. And I guess that he has this right. I actually think that the relationship between Obama and Wright is strained, and each is taking their own path.

You are saturating us with this Rev. Wright issue. Surely, there are more important items in the news, ie.. Darfur, gasoline prices, Supreme Court etc.. Why must CNN sensationalize? Am also dissappointed in Gloria Borger’s CNN Election Coverage. Up until today, her show was the least theatrical, but tonight she was just trying to create controversy instead of moderating conversation.

Tony-Where you listening to the same speech? Pastor Wright slammmed John Kennedy, if he hate america that much why does he move to another country?

“Senator Clinton just got the nomination handed to her on a plate,”
Oh, please. Spare me.

Soledad, Senator Obama himself called Rvd Wright his “spiritual advisor”. I think Rvd. Wright IS angry that Obama is now trying to distance himself after 20 years of advising him. Obama also said he never made an important decision, including political, without consulting with Rvd Wright first. In Rvd. Wright’s own words, Obama is a politician and will say what he needs to say and Rvd Wright is a bit peeved that he feels he has now been “thrown under the bus” too.

I find it difficult to judge someone’s class based on the comments of another person. That is very judgemental

Anderson, is it really necessary to devote so much time to Rev.Wright??? I think there are more pressing issues going on. What about the war??? It seems like you have forgot all about it. You used to talk about it on the program and now you don’t.

Dear Anderson,

enough with Rev Wright. There is so much more to the news today…

The media is making the big deal about this. the man is learned, was a marine and has a point of view. I am a white 59 year old woman and I believe there is some white racists sentiment being expressed in the “outrage” of Wright’s comments.

We did go to war under false pretenses and millions of Iraqis’ lives have bee impacted. We should be held accountable for that.

Husband thinks Wright it trying to “due in” Obama. Does anyone else think that?

Hi Anderson, Sad day for the people in Virginia!! Please ask you your panel of experts to comment on Rev. Wrights statement that Black children learn with the opposite side of the brain than White children. Is this true? What if a child has a Black Mother & a White father or a child has a Asian mother and a Black father etc.?

Are we going to have to hear every word Reverend Wright says throughout this entire campaign? He is not running for president.

@Kimberly do you know the Obama’s personally? Don’t talk about Al Sharpton or Jesse Jackson unless you know their works.

He just characterized Obama as “just another politician.”

my heart goes out to those injured virginians.
Also as for freedom of speech, that only protects a person from the gov’t prosecution, not public opinion. i do feel bad for obama, because he probably doesn’t believe everytihng everybody he knows thinks (really who does) but if it’s going to keep him from getting elected as president i think the delegates need to consider that. The best thing Wright can do is keep quiet.
BTW, Anderson where’s your pic tonight?

Anderson,

What sort of tornado warning system do they have in the Suffolk area? When I lived in the midwest we had sirens on top of all city and county buildings (including schools). Here in Western North Carolina, we have NOTHING but the little scroll on the TV set.

Given the increasing frequency of tornadoes in areas that rarely had them in the past, do we need more extensive warning systems throughout the country?

@ Teresa —- I believe Rev. Wright was retiring before any of this stuff hit the fan

Am I alone in liking Rev. Wright? I think he’s great.

Hey Anderson,

Pastor Wright is a breath of fresh air. What he says does not offend me at all. I like his personality, and his message. Even though I am not a christian, I respect him as a pastor. The media takes things out of context, and way out of proportion. This doesnt change my views on Obama. He is still my candidate. Good to see you back Anderson.

Last night I heard Wright and the pastor who introduced him speak. I listened to a minister scream hell fire and damnation to me as a child and I have vowed to never to listen this kind of preaching again, so I turned it off.

Over the past few days I have also heard him speak as a very caring and loving man, but it sure doesn’t come across in his sermons.

I like the way he is speaking on the clips now. Can’t he speak this way and not offend people with his yelling and screaming. It fees offensive and confrontaional, when he preaches this way.

@Rose from Southern Calif: I wonder how Caroline and “Uncle Teddy” appreciated it when Wright mocked JFK?

I am not sure that playing anymore of Rev. Wright speeches creates anymore understanding, context is not too much help. I heard both of his speech and Q & A at the Press Club and although he has a number of good points, presenting his beliefs in such a condescending and dismissive manner of those around him and those asking the questions does not bolster his points or provide him with any credibility. His 15 min should be up.

This seems very simple to me. If you (the media) stop making it about Rev. Wright and focus on your two canidates and the topics the we do care about you would be helping us make a fair and just decisions. I am Catholic and I don’t always agree with our priests but our church is a community it is more than one priet or one sermon. I don’t think the media is doing it’s best job right now.

Do you think Rev. Wright should continue to speak out.. or if he wants to help Barack Obama should he discontinue his speaking tour?

Liberation from what? All citizens of this country have been able to register and vote unimpeded for the last 40+ years. Why haven’t these same people calling for “liberation” been voting for change all along?

Wright is grandstanding and letting his ego take over. There’s nothing redeeming, healing, or empowering I’ve heard yet. Being rude and insincere is inappropriate, at best.

I think that the more we see and hear from Rev. Wright, the easier it will be for Sen. Obama to separate himself from this self-centered, annoying person. Rev. Wright, no I have not seen your entire sermon. Why would I subject myself to more than the few minutes I have already endured.

Did I just hear that right? The Rev Wright basically just said that Obama will say anything people want to hear to get elected - whether or not he believes it to be true - even though it may mean sacrificing a 20 year pastor/mentor relationship????

The only thing that i could say for Obama is detach himself from this man who hates everyone and everybody. What do you except from somebody who likes Louis Farrakhan.

I have no concern about Rev Wright and his “sermons.” My concern is the link between him, his ideology, and the man that may be president.

More Reverend Wright. Can someone please let me know when the focus is on something that actually matters?

Anderson
I agree with Maureen T.

After his two speeches, I think Rev. Wright has answered enough question and should now step aside

@ KELLY
I must correct you Obama never called the rev his spiritual advisor
in fact he has corrected people who have said that to him
Obama says the Revis his Minister only
And who among us even give a 2nd thought to what our Ministers think

obama is done

We need to hear all sides of the story thus the 360º

Rev. Wright should probably just disappear if he wants to help

Anderson, he needs to be quiet.
Esp with that joke that he wants to be VP..people will take that seriously!!

He really needs to shut up…and let the POLITICIANS do the talking, not anyone else. Plus, we’re tired of seeing him…so him going away would do wonders, for the campaign AND for my sanity!

For me personally, I like Barack Obama MORE because of his relationship with such an intelligent, multi-dimensional, and HONEST man as Reverend Wright. Thanks, 360, for playing longer segments of his speeches from the weekend and this morning.

the more i listen to Rev Wright, the more I am becoming his fan…..He is so passionate n his feelings that touches me….
wish to know what Anderson thinks about him….

ug, wright reminds me of someone with whom you argue who is NEVER WRONG. he makes me tired listening to him

COllette-At this point it doesn’t matter what Rev Wirght says, he’s just making the “debate” worse. Just about everything he says is interpreted as negative, one way or another, one news source or another.

Anderson, if he wants to help Obama he should rent a cabin in Alaska without phone or cell service and hunt moose until November.

I have read his whole speeches and I do believe Rev. Wright was taken out of context, however, I think what bothers me most is the tone he uses when he preaches. He sounds angry most of the time and I do believe he seems to have issues with whites (not that it’s unjustifiable in some cases.). Its hard for me to relate to him, I guess, but I really don’t think he’s a bad person nor the monster that some have made him out to be.

I think Rev. Wright is keeping the pot stirred, which could only damage Barack’s campaign.

I am not voteing for Obama yet I almost feel sad for him, Rev. Wright will cost him the election I have no doubt that Hillary will be our next great president. The best thing that the Rev. can do is shut up and sit down!

AC,

“Do you think Rev. Wright should continue to speak out.. or if he wants to help Barack Obama should he discontinue his speaking tour?”

Well it is obvious to me that Rev. Wright is not going to let anyone tell him what to do. He’s free to say whatever he wants and the Obama camp understands that.

I do wonder why he picked this week to come forward in such a way.

Perhaps if Wright speaks enough, people will tire of him so he doesn’t stir up such a media frenzy anytime he speaks. (boy that will be a long time from now huh).

I do think this will have an effect on the Indiana results.

if this rev.wright thing was known before feb. 5 . obama would not be ahead

Barack has been extremely professional and charismatic in response to Rev. Wright’s latest comments. The Reverend’s speeches have unfairly attacked Barack, yet Barack has remained dignified and has not “played the dozens” against Wright, even though he had sure grounds to do so.

What bothers me is wright said , that obama said what he had to say to get elected, and on nov5th he coming after obama at the white house,

Rev. Wright appears to be an intelligent, thought provoking, motivator. I don’t think people should equate Wright and Obama as if they were joined at the hip.

We cannot put Rev. Wright under Mouth Arrest. This is a free country. He has to be free to continue to preach. Only countries under oppressive governments prevent people from speaking truth to power. What’s going on?

Can we PLEASE forget Jeremiah Wright? Yes, he’s there, he’s responding to all of this attention, but is it REALLY necessary for the media to cover it? Let it die, please. It’s immensely absurd. Wright is simply begging for attention. Please report on the aspects of this campaign that are important. I want to hear about the candidates, not the candidates’ pastors, for god’s sake (no pun intended).

Anderson, I think Rev. Wright should not continue his speaking tour. I don’t think he is going to help Obama at all.

Anderson: Rev. Wright speaking out is not helping Obama. If he wanted to speak out, he should have done it when the soundbites were first aired. Vacation or no vacation.

Hi, everyone.

Angela in Chesapeake, I’m glad to hear you are OK. The tornadoes are terrible — I worry about the damage pictures to come.

Rev. Jeremiah Wright should not be judged or condemed by sound bytes. I do not support Obama, however, I am open to hear the entire words of Rev. Jeremiah Wright. My opinion is based on watching 360 coverage tonight.

Rev. Wright has a lot of hatred in his voice and body language. Obama doesn’t need this kind of press so late in the campaign. And speaking of the press, why can’t we focus on the real issues like jobs, price of gas, and family issues?

Anderson

i think Rev Wright should just Shut Up and let Obama clean up what mess that the Rev has made of all this Stuff…..i mean Obama kinda had the whole thing shiped away then BAM he wants to talk more……his 15 minutes are over…well at least i think they should be!!!!

America should try to look and listen more to Obama and not Rev. Wright

Carrie, Asheville, RE:

We don’t have a tornado warning system. We RARELY have them. Hurricanes usually. The tv tells you after the fact, or the standard Emergency Broadcasting System via radio or tv.

We had to watch the skies. NOT that reliable since tornados can be quite invisible until they gather debris.

BTW…Suffolk, Chesapeake, Norfolk, Virginia Beach are all so close it is like one big city.

The guys on the Navy ships saw a water spout coming at the ship, and then over the bridge where it blew out windows of cars and spun a truck around…thankfully not off the bridge.

Obama/ Wright are actually making Hillary look good to me - and that ’s a miracle !

Rev. Wright is Rev. Wrong, Latching on to his 15 minutes of fame with no shame and no class., , Its not about Jesus ok?, Its about the planet, its about an unfair war, its about the economy, its about making our way back into the world with dignity once again and Jesus has nothing to do with it, WE do!!, this guy has got to go…to me he is as important to solving the problems of African Americans as Britney Spears or Paris Hilton.

Dear God Help us all, this crap is going to put another republican in the White House.

I think all the news stations should distance themselves from Rev. Jeremiah Wright.

There is noway this should have anything to do with Obama…….

*looks for Erica*

I believe Wright needs to be quiet and get out of this. There’s already enough guilt by association to last a campaign. He keeps saying the same things over and over. He adds nothing positive to Obama’s campaign (unless you buy his ideology). And I find his screaming personally offensive. Bleh.

in one of obamas interviews shortly after easter he said that he talked to wright and that wright apoligized for the comments . What happened to that side of the story. I cant even keep track of all the back and forths with obama

Thanks Candy. Don’t agree with the Obama Rev. Wright situation I think it has ruined him as far as a national election. He could have handled this so much better.

But we always love seeing and hearing your opinion.

It is a sad moment for America to see a Pastor’s ego desecrate the foundations, minds and hope of the country who supports him financially.

Anderson, you often make comments about folks seeing what they want to see and hearing what they want to hear. The Wright issue is no different. You can’t change folks minds. They have to make up their own. If his language and mannerisms are acceptable, then he will prevail. If it is offense, then he gets tuned out.

Wright is definitely not doing Obama any favors right now, but he doesn’t seem to care. He has his own agenda.

It is better for Obama that Wright is speaking now…this is the times that define a leader when you are tested and cannot get any sleep, that is when your mettle is tested…..if Obama comes out of Indiana with a 2-4 point loss I would count that as a victory in the heat of this battle

The Rev Wright issue is important - not because of guilt by association but because of what one can infer about Obama himself. First, if someone is really interested in bringing people together, why would he join a Church that is clearly separatist in nature - also, first, Obama denied knowing his Pastor’s position then denounces “some offensive statements” - even Rev. Wright is saying that Obama is just being a politician - saying what he needs to say to Americans to get elected - It’s about honesty and integrity (having one’s actions match his words) - these are character traits that Obama is claiming that qualify him to be Pres –do this is definitely an issue

In my opinion the issue isn’t that Rev. Wright’s views represent Senator Obama’s. The issue is how can someone not know their pastor’s view after being a member of that church for over twenty years. Senator Obama’s saying that he had never heard those statements in the last twenty years seems very unbelievable to me. That fact alone makes me not trust or believe anything else he says.

Anderson,

There is nothing Barack Obama can do. Rev Wright has a right to defend himself. If what Rev Wright says persuades anyone not to vote for Barack Obama they should be ashamed of themselves… I don’t understand how people can hold Barack accountable for Rev. Wright’s opinions…

I have to say, after hearing Wright on PBS with Bill Moyer’s and this morning… I think he’s great! I admire his tenacity.

My heart goes out to all those affected by the tornadoes. I live in the city where the 8 high school kids were killed last year. My best wishes to all of you.

I have believed in the words that Rev. Wright spoke since day one. His words are just that his words. People are looking for ways and in my opinion excuses not to vote for Sen. Obama. Those who are scheduled to vote on May 6th already know who will get their vote so please stop acting as if Rev. Wright speaking out will somehow influence those remaining votes. Many people who are upset are upset because they are guilty of some of the very things that Rev Wright speaks out about. Get over it and let us all move on.

Rev. Wright said “what man has intended for evil, gods intends for good. I think his speaking out will bring race to the foefront and America and American are going to have serious conversations about past atrocities. Rev. Wright also said that America (government) has yet to even offer an apology to African Americans for slavery. How can you have true reconciliation without first admiting the wrong done to someone. We cannot go on thing that our brutal history didn’t occur.

Mr. Wright’s enthusiasm and antics are very similar to the preacher of my mother’s church (Freewill Baptist). Some have expressed that they feel Mr. Wright appears very arrogant. Sometimes religious leaders do appear that way. I thought that about the African American clergyman that serves as a Republican political analyst for MSNBC. I don’t recall his name. We have to remember however that people communicate in different ways and have different styles. If Mr. Wright was a soft spoken man perhaps what he said would have been easier to accept for amny. But obviously that is not his style is it?

I wish the “Rev. Wright videos” came out before February, because then I would have known to write in “Cooper-Hill” on my ballot!

I may not like what Wright has to say, but he has the Wright to say it.

I may not agree with the way he delivers his message and I feel he is really damaging Obama’s campaign, but I am learning somethings from what he is saying.

The media is getting played; Rev. Wright is getting prime time coverage for free. He is promoting himself and his new book and nobody else. For those individuals who like to dig beneath the surface, we can clearly see that Rev. Wright and Obama have two different agendas and have diametrically opposing values. We need to see straight through this attempt to distract us from real issues, such as why I have to pay $3.70 per gallon for gas, nearly $4 for a gallon of milk, and a climbing mortgage payment. By the way can someone in the media tell me where my rebate check is. No coverage on the things that really matter!

The man spent six years in the military, he can say anything he wants to. How many of you have given to your country? I wish you obama haters would say why you really don’t like him.

Well, i guess Barack is saying–with friends like Rev. Wright, who needs enemys??

Anderson, in response to your question… I personally don’t believe that Rev. Wright is in support of Obama, I think he is for himself regardless of the fallout that Obama may/maynot take from it….

If Rev. Wright continues to speak out it SHOULD reflect on Obamas camp and here is why: Obama wrote a book on a SERMON and teachings the REV. gave. Obama considers Rev. Wright his SPIRITUAL counselor. After all, we are ALL but SPIRITUAL beings on the planet for a time.

Yes, they each speak for themselves… we all do.

Something SIMILIAR about Wright and Obama is: even after watching both of them for sooo long … I STILL do not feel I have a grasp on either of their TRUE selves. scary.

David Gergan just said it all!

If Rev. Wright wants to help Obama, he should probably end the speaking tour now. But, do we really think Wright’s main objective in life is to help Obama win the presidency? I think he has his own agenda.

I am soooooooo sick of your coverage of Rev Wright. story. Please consider the tolerance level of your viewers. How do you determine when too much coverage drive viewers away. I am getting ready to switch channel for the 10th time since last night. CNN is doing more damage to itself than Wright is doing to Obama.

Rev Wright has spoken enough. To assist Barack Obama he should now be seen and not heard.

No mincing words when it comes to David Gergen…..and that’s why I love him

David Gergen is right! Wright is hurting more than helping.

He needs to go..far far away and go seek attention somewhere else than a tv camera.

David Gergen is telling it like it IS. I too can’t believe the gall of Wright–he’s arrogant and obviously only cares about himself and furthering his 15 minutes of fame…

Wright should stop and consider that in most of the world he could never say what he’s said here. Vitually none of those places are in Africa!

I agree with kathy in ohio. The Rev. said he was going after Obama in the White House!!! What does that mean??

I’m from NC, just voted early, and after hearing again from Wright & the lack of substantive response from Obama, I voted for the competitor, Clinton. I cannot support someone who cannot stand for the mainstream. Bee in NC

YEAH to David Gergen and Roland Martin!

Leave the old man alone. Move on.

BO sat and listened to this man for 20 years……….,That says to me he had to agree with what the man was saying..I also think MO really took all his sermons to heart from the things she has said.

I am a Hillary supporter and this bothers me. I don’t want Obama to lose because of this Man’s words Pastor Wright or i would call him (Pastor Wrong).

Wright is not running for office! Judge him when and if he decides to. He is representing himself, not Obama!

It almost appears as if Wright is trying to be a “king maker.” It’s as if he has come to the decision that Obama is “just another politician” and now, unworthy of his blessings.

I think it is ridiculous that so much time is being sepnt on Rev.Wright. Ther are far more pressing isssues. Besides everytime the media talks about Rev.Wright, it just feeds into it. I can only hope that one day Anderson will talk about the war or something equally as important on 360.

If my mentor and “friend” did this to me, I know I’d have to find a new mentor and “friend”. This is just unreal. There is no way to distance yourself from a leech attached to your body when it’s stuck on and sucking you dry.

Wright said it best when he said the Barack will say what he needs to say because he is running for office. I am still having a hard time believing that Barack does not believe a lot of what Wright says.. Why else would you stay in a church for 20 years otherwise. For once i would like to have a honest person running for office, one that just does not go around saying what you need to say for whatever state you might be in..

rev wright is “wrighting ” a book — he’s gonna be all over the place !

I know the Obama campaign wishes they could make Rev. Wright have a lower profile - like they gave Michelle Obama a lower profile after she said that, “For the first time in my adult life, I’m really proud to be an American.” There is a narrative being created about Obama and since he is relatively unknown, it is having a cumulative effect.

When President Clinton was running off at the mouth, people asked whether it is he who is running again for office or Hillary. So let me ask you this, is Rev. J. Wright running for office or Barack Obama?

Barack Obama DOES NOT EQUAL Rev. Wright.

Rev Wright has his own agenda, but it is not the agenda of Barack Obama.

For intelligent people who can tell the difference between the two, this will NOT hurt Obama.

Let us talk about the issues that matter: jobs, economy, Iraq, health care.

CNN and the rest of the media will feed on this like hyenas, at a time when the American people need to be focused on the issues that matter.

Anderson
It’s really bothering me that you are all blaming Rev. Wright for hurting Obama, when it’s obvious that you are the ones distorting his image. You don’t have to do that you know.

I understand Rev. Wright wanting to speak out and defend himself, he has taken a personal hit in the media but if he supports Obama he should just “take one for the team”.

I’m sure Obama will really distance himself now. Rev. Wright did him no favors today, that’s for sure.

I’m turning to the NBA playoffs now. Please let me know when you start talking about gas prices, home-foreclosures, terrorism, the War in Iraq, healthcare and Social Security, and maybe I’ll turn back.

Thanks Angela in Virginia.
Thanks for up date news.
Ed and Roland have good point…… we need back to issue.

@ Yvonne: Leave the old man alone. Move on.

Thanks for the laugh !!! : )

The press keeps asking Obama to explain Rev. Wright, but know one is asking Mr. McCain to explain Rev. Hagee. Know one has Ms. clinton to explain how Rev. Wright was her husbands counseler during their time of need or that her pastor in D.C. supports Rev. Wright

I love the contributions from Rowland Martin..thats my guy.

I am not following why the media is so fascinated with Rev. Wright. Can someone explain it?

Obama should just keep his focus. I don’t think he should have to be side-tracked daily by this Reverend’s media events.

@Scott. I agree! You can’t spend 20 years in the pew and not hear a lot of this stuff. Obama’s claim he never heard it ‘requires a willing suspension of disbelief’.

If I were Barack O’bama, I would definately be disapointed in a mentor like Reverand Wright and start verbalizing it.

The idea that he’s now hurting O’Bama with his rhetoric, and seems oblivious to the damage he’s doing by continuing to speak out suggests he dosn’t care about much except his own
“15 minutes”

Rev. Wright is an extreme that will be the “swift boat” of this election if Obama is indeed the Democratic candidate. The Republicans will not let this rest in the fall.

Fascinating panel discussion tonight! Some may think covering Jeremiah Wright is not relevant but I appreciate the coverage. The man is ruining Obama’s chances for a presidency. I find this not only important but very interesting.

The bible says judge ye not lest ye be judged. We don’t need to judge Senator Obama based on Reverend Wright.

I think a lot of obama’s popularity at first was because no one knew him. Now as we get to see him in action, the paint job doesn’t look so good from close up.

David Gergen, you are correct.

Senator Obama, it is time to draw the line in the sand. You already have my vote. It is now time to firmly state your case. You (Senator Obama) cannot call Reverand Wright your pastor. Reverand Wright, intentioanlly or not, is speaking for you and putting words in your mouth. It is time to say, I cannot be affiliated with someone misrepresenting me, my beliefs, my faith and what I can do for America.

After hearing what Rev. Wright said, how can Obama (or anyone) be foolish enough to consider this guy (Wright) to be a friend?

This reminds me of the saying: “With friends like that, who needs enemies?”

It is obvious that Rev. Wright loves publicity and he loves the platform that the major news networks have provided him. He knows that he is undermining Senator Obama’s campaign and as David Gergen said on Anderson’s panel, “what is his motive?” For the first time in American history we have a chance to elect someone of Obama’s intellect and intellegence and if he loses he can only blame his so-called “spiritual mentor” who is now doing him the most harm.

Kathy in Ohio, Right, Right, Right, Obama lied straight out and said that the Rev. Was apologetic, yet we know fromt he Moyers interview that this was an outright lie. Why isn’t Obama being called to account for that in the media big time?? This is an issue as this man is running for the highest office in this land.

I can believe that Virginia has no alarms. In this day and age it is a shame that all of america is not covered, But we don’t have them here either.

The Rev. Wright is wrong, and Barack Obama is getting what he deserves. Obama had to have known how caustic Wright can be. No one can spend 20 years as a church member with a pastor and not know the tenor of the pastor’s messages. Wright makes some good points, that his comments are biblically sound or the words of others. But many of these words are inflammatory to mainstream America. Wright is entitled to use these words. But Obama had the right and freedom to walk away. He chose not to while, though, while he was contemplating a run for the presidency. This has proven to be a bad choice. How many other bad choices has Obama made and how many more bad ones would he make if elected to the Oval Office. Obama is getting what he deserves.

Last I knew, there was freedom of speech in this country. I’m offended by the comments that Barack and Michelle have no class, and that people from other countries believe they know what’s right for us. Yet I would never want to stop the discussions. So since everyone seems to continue to talk about Rev Wright, then lets get to real substance of his sermons, speeches and interviews that Americans haven’t always treated others (even their own) fairly & that we have to get to the point of accepting peoples differences as different, not wrong, not ignorant, just different. Then we could begin making real progress in this country.

“…who saw a twister from Wrigh– right in front of her.”

Hahahaha. Ahhh.

Looking great again tonight Erica.

I can’t believe that little girl Cyrus is making all that money - and for what? She makes more than you and Anderson!!!

Hi Erica,
I don’t see Anderson picture…

Thank you, finally, hannah montana coverage!

Hannah Montana’s pic isn’t going to affect the little girls who listen and watch. My nieces do at ages 4 and 6. Vanity Fair isn’t part of the nighttime reading ritual.

there goes another disney kid…
*sigh*
i’m 15
never taken a picyure like that.

So glad to hear you say that about Annie Lebowitz, Anderson! She’s really the best and I was really surprised to hear Miley Cyrus say she was embarrassed by the pictures now. Her parents or her could have vetoed the pictures at the time she was taking them.

John Mathis…Rvd Wright attended a prayer session that included many pastors of many denominations and was one of many such prayer sessions held in the White House by many Presidents. He wasnt Bill Clinton’s “mentor” or “counselor”

I kind of think of Rev Wright as the Lou Dobbs of preachering.. Ieverytime I watch either of them the comparison hits me…

It’s clear that Rev. Wright’s views are extremists, divisive, and counter-productive. But its even sadder that complete opposition and dismissal of all his comments are rooted in the blind-patriotism that says America is beyond reproach, and every thing she does is right.
If any of you re-call this same “blind-patriotism” got us into Iraq.
It may be hard for many to believe, but there are people in this world that do not see everything America does as perfect and without reproach; there are some victims of American “policy”.
Rev. Wright is extremist, but take his views with a grain of salt, America DOES get some things wrong.
And a GREAT President recognizes this truth.

Who cares what Rev. Wright says, wasn’t this country founded on religious freedoms? Condeming Barak Obama b/c of Rev. Wright’s comments makes about as much sense to condeming any member of a Catholic parish where the priest molested children. Just because it’s your parrish, that does not make the individual parrish member responsible for the actions of the priest or in this case, the reverend.

Enough, move on to some real issues. . .please. And David is right, Wright is a complete narcissist!

By the way, Jesus stood out as a sore thumb, because he told the truth to the oppressive establishment.

I agree with you Jim, but Obama has already expressed those sentiments, hasn’t he? Does he need to do that again?

Hi..I think Obama needs to speak up and respond to Rev. Wrights comments. Rev. Wright seems to be angry at Obama for his distancing himself from Rev. Wright. Wright seems to be damaging Obama.. Is that the work of a Christian? It makes no sense! It is another selfish, self centered narciasist. Does he speak for All the black church leaders? Our country is in deep trouble, and we give heed to more division.Obama has to speak or it is over for him in this race.

I don’t think Rev Wright speaks for all black churches. I hope you guys make that clear.

@Yvonne-thank you…have had my laugh for the day. Anderson & Erica, aren’t you just a little bit tired of talking about the Rev.????

Comparing Rev Wright to Jesus and Dr. King??!! Give me a break!! Look, if Barack doesnt denounce Rev Wright and Rev Wright wont denounce Farrakan than what does that say about Obama?

I think preachers are free to preach, and we are free not to listen or follow every word. It’s a choice.

Angel M,
Me too. I love Hannah Montana too, I agree with you.

In a perfect world-these comments would not hurt Obama–but we all know this is not a perfect world — Rev. Wright’s words will be held against him.

Miley’s parents are at fault for those pictures of their under age child.
Not Annie Leibovitz or Miley herself. What they should have said was

‘no way, not at her age!”

Roland Martin……………….I think you are great. I love to listen to your comments.

Lynn-Thank you for making me laugh! I need that right now!

Oh the book deal…Why am I not surprised.

Rev. Wright is speaking for himself and the Church, not Barack Obama. He was here long before Brack Obama.

“Hannah” or technically miley (hannah is miley with a blond wig) was fully covered and wearing pants when she was photographed. it might have been a bad idea but really shouldn’t her parents have been like “we don’t think our 15 yr old should be photographed in a sheet.” they are partically to blame, she’s only a child

Trent, I agree it is not unpatriotic to criticize our government, but for a Pastor to tell his congregation that “America’s chickens are coming home to roost” on the Sunday right after 9-11 - that’s just hateful and hurtful -