Oprah should be ashamed of herself! Her infuence on the American public could get people to follow her off a bridge! She has every right to her opinion, but as far as political candidates, she should have never gathered her sheep and led them off a cliff. What she could have and should have done, is just, get out the vote. Obama is nothing more then a attractive, well spoken, talking head. Oprahs support and clout is much to powerful! I fear his lack of experience, will destroy us.
Oprah if your listening… BUTT OUT!

Obama is for change? Thats a joke right?

Obama is just another Liar, Just like Hillary, Rudy, Edwards and Romney.

There is only one honest man running for president.

RON PAUL. All you have to do is Google him.. His ideas are for all mankind. Black or white Asian or Hispanic.

He is for America. you cannot say America in the same sentence for any other candidate.

Because the rest are for Globalization and the New World Order

Obama and the CFR = Evil

Hmmmmm Not like Oprah has a good track record at supporting people, from lying writers to child molesting teachers.

She may be well intentioned but IMO she seems to have a nose at sniffing out crap and then instead of pushing it away she supports it.

With Oprahs support i wouldn't be suprised to eventually find out that Obama is an axe murderer who sells crack and wants to be the first gangster rapping president…lol

Barack Obama AND his wife are members of Council on Foreign Relations (The CFR is sworn to destroy American sovereignty—see for yourself on CFR's own website)….I was for Obama before I found this out, and could hardly even believe it….so I checked it out and it is true…Nine other candidates are also CFR members, both Democratic & Republican: Hillary Clinton, John Edwards, Joe Biden, Chris Dodd, Bill Richardson, Fred Thompson, Rudy Giuliani, Mitt Romney, and John McCain….LOOK IT UP, ESP. ON CFR'S OWN WEBSITE!!!!…SEE WHAT THEIR AGENDA IS… It is not the America I want to live in…..Sara DiNicola

Well it does not surprise me that people would have the nervers to think Oprah is endorsing Barack because he is black. Well why do the same people have nothing to say about all the many white authors that she has endorsed. Anybody in there right mind should know Barack is the best canidate. Also people should be tired of the Bush\Clinton dynasty. Oprah not racist, you people are!

Oprah is a racist. See USA Today article below, dated July 21, 2007

Oprah urges Howard grads to serve others
Updated 115d ago

Oprah Winfrey sits with Howard University president H. Patrick Swygert during the historically black university's commencement ceremony Saturday.

WASHINGTON (AP) — Oprah Winfrey, whose show has remained the top-rated TV talk show for 20 consecutive seasons, says her success comes from maintaining her principles and serving others.
"My integrity is not for sale, and neither is yours," Winfrey said at graduation ceremonies Saturday for Howard University, recalling times when she was under pressure to change course or avoid topics to boost ratings or appease advertisers. "Do not be a slave to any form of selling out."

Winfrey recalled how early in her career at a TV station in Baltimore, executives told her she was "too black" and "too emotional." She said they tried to have her TV name changed to something more recognizable, but she refused.

Finally, Winfrey was put on a talk show, she said, to run out her contract.

"And that was the beginning," she told 30,000 people who crowded onto the Howard campus.

Winfrey drew repeated big cheers from the moment she took the stage. She called on the graduates to maintain their integrity and to "go forth and serve."

"I stand here as a symbol of what is possible when you believe in the dream of your own life," Winfrey said. "Don't be afraid. All you need to do is know who you are."

Winfrey said that while growing up her grandmother, a servant in 1950s Mississippi, hoped that Winfrey would "get some good white folks" to work for.

"I regret that she didn't live past 1963 and see that I did get some really good white folks — working for me," said.

Dan from Chicago said:

"To me, I'm not going to support Obama just because Oprah does, I'm going to support him because of who he is and what he's done (and what he's not done, like vote for the Iraq War, like Clinton did)".

I would like to make one correction to the above comment.

It is true that Barack Obama spoke out against the Iraq War, for example when he called the Iraq War "stupid" in the speech he gave at the 2004 Democratic Convention. He has consistently reminded people that he spoke out against the war from the very beginning. But here's the rub.
Mr. Obama has voted for every Supplemental Appropriations Bill to fund the War in Iraq. If you don't believe me, just GOOGLE VoteSmart, it will give you a link where you can check his voting record.
We've been living under th pall of lies under the current administration for almost the past 8 years now. Do you really want to vote for someone who is intentionally misleading you about there true position on the Iraq War? Not to mention the fact that he is willing to invade Pakistan pre-emptively.

The reason why she's supporting Obama now is because they're the same colour. He's been on her show a number of times. How many times has Hillary been on (or any of the other candidates in fact)? She's never been involved in political debate before. It's funny she says no other candidate before was worth her going on a limb for- Obama of all people will be America's weakest president if ever elected. Oprah always sucks-up to people she's friends with and who like her (especially if they're black). Just watch the way she conducts her interviews when her panel is multi-racial. You should also hear the racial bias she shows-off when she visits South Africa…

I am in favor of what Oprah stands for. I watched the show with Obama and his wife and I for one agree with what he stands for and support both.

To say that Oprah endorses Obama because he is the best candidate, and not because he is black, when she has never endorsed one for President before is to expect one to believe that:
1) Of all the people who've ever run for President since she became a billionaire (circa 1996?), not a single one before match the standard Obama has set or is setting, assuming for the sake of argument, Obama is indeed the "best".
That's the height of silliness.
Before we can begin to eradicate the scourge of discrimination and biasedness, we need to confront it. At every level, at every instance. And talk about it honestly. Otherwise, we contribute to the whole damn hypocrisy of it all.
I'm a liberal democrat and I'm voting for Hillary. Obama is a good man from the true melting pot that America stands for, Hawaii, but at this point in time, we need experienced and genuine leadership, not hype.

Being a citizen of our great country means 'advanced' citizenship. The freedom to speak one's mind without supression, while defending the "right" of another to speak their mind (even as the words they speak make your blood boil). This is democracy. Persia, I applaud you for softening your stance a bit, even though I still refuse to believe race had anything to do AT ALL with Oprah's decison to support Obama. To say "it's because he's black", to say, "well you know they all stick together", to say one-tenth of a fraction of the things that were written here today, literally trivialize the intelligence of a woman who was intelligent enough to become a billionaire in a country where she was set up to fail.(As a DOUBLE minority, please know that her accomplishments are no accident. Neither is the current level of influence that she currently wields) Believe it, or not, there was a time ON THIS CONTINENT, where being black, or being white…. was simply a statement of description. (as simple of a description as tall, short, fat, skinny). This obviously was BEFORE our country was founded, But well over 400 years later, this disgusting stain on the cloth of American history still won't wash clean. 436 years of slavery and 142 years of institutionalized racism and second class citizensip, and here we are. It is clear by some posts, that given the chance to clean the stain or not, some would leave it dirty. (in their small world view, 'the natural way things oughtta be'). But the flipside is extremely ecouraging. Because I also see people of enlightenment and conscience rushing forward to educate on facts and not emotion and fear. Those of enlightenment, and freedom of mind, and awareness of self are positively giddy at the astonishing level of enthusiasm and support this American candidate is receiving. Because we know that anyone who's mind is open (even a little) to simply "LISTEN" to what this man is saying, we know that person is going to come away knowing they have witnessed something special. THAT is what Oprah sees. And she sees it on a level you or I NEVER could. There is a buzz and an excitement around this candidate that every single other candidate is envious of. The American people are tired. Even weary. And are starving for genuine leadership. Some of us believe we have found it. There is aura of confidence, not arrogance; a sense of good, and determined purpose, not of business as usual; and a sense of a balance between a brilliant intellegence and comon sense that you can just visalize being applied to the very serious issues and challenges that confront this nation. Love her, or hate her, Oprah shares these genuine qualities. My guess is,she recognized those same qualities in Mr. Obama. And if fundraising totals is any indication, a great number of American see it too. So, again, to say Oprah supports Obama because they are both black trivializes her intelligence while exposing one's own 'lack' of intelligence.

Very well said Vincent King of Phoenix, AZ!!

Sen Obama is the only candidate (in my opinion) that has any respect for us taxpayers. This man is the only candidate that doesn't make me feel as if someone spit in my face.

Barack is a jewel of authenticity in sea of ignobles. a being that utters sincerity for heart. one who by merely being himself stands so starkly different for the insinceres, the uncomfortables, the callous, the calculating, the uncaring, the script readers. something not beautiful permeates the soul of those who prefer the crooked order and advocate for the electing of its representatives. the cruel and wicked souls gnash their teeths and belch odious utterances to obstruct the ascendance of good.

in your ignomy, you speak of alleged racial divisions but fail to advance the beauty this candidate (obama) represent…you fail to advance the truth that you and obama are of the same race (the human race), you ignore the fact that your DNA may be more similar to the blackest of the blacks than to some of the whitest of the whites…you are unknowing, hopeless, and a scourge welting on the human family.

let love reign! let goodness shower upon america and the world. let goodness overwhelm evil, as our war on terror shall hopeful overwhelm the evil of psychopathic souls (bin laden, et al), leaving the mindsets of yesterday no safe haven of ignobility in which to hide…let the realization of ONE HUMAN family usher-in, setting aside the ignorance which asserts to the contrary.

let their be love! let obama's being shine light into the world by way of america.

amen!

The level of ignorance and ridiculousness of some of the commentary is frightening and shows that ,for all of our progress we still have much farther to go as a nation. I happen to love Oprah and love the fact that she is supporting Barack Obama for president. I read his book, and I know for a fact that this is the right person to lead the nation.

The assertion that she is supporting him because he is an African American is obsurd. She didn't endorse Al Sharpton for the Presidency and he was Black, so why Obama? It has to be more than his skin color. If he does win the Presidency, it will speak volumes of the diversity of our nation and perhaps begin to close the chapter on our racial divide once and for all. Go Obama!!

For myself, I think

It truly stretches the imagination to say that race DIDN'T factor into Oprah's endorsement. C'mon folks, it's 2007, nobody's stupid anymore, especially with information available at the speed of light from here to Timbuctu. But that's not the point for those of us who point that out in Oprah's decision. It is not racist to point out that Oprah chose Obama because he's black. Why is that racist? It's a fact. That's all we're saying.
As for the point that she never endorsed any other black candidates before:
1) They didn't have a snowball's chance in hell (Sharpton, Jesse Jackson)
2) They were Republicans (Powell, don't believe he was a candidate, but if he had been; Alan Keyes)
So now she finally decides she can use her fame and fortune to make a statement. Good for her.
But she would have made a bigger statement and brought this country a long way further if she had endorsed someone not black. Simply because of perception. And perception is everything in politics and behavior, isn't it?

Can't believe that someone actually used the words "genius" and "Clinton" in the same sentence — LOL!!

Wallace of Chicago,
Thanks for the comment. Of course I can't know that Oprah supports Obama because he is black, but it is a possibility that no-one has successfully ruled it. I, in fact, doubt that is her reason. In the first order, she probably believes he is the best. In the second order, they are both Chicago-ites (like yourself), who know each other quite well on a personal level. Hopefully she is not running on personal bias, as someone of her power also has great responsability. Nevertheless, as you will see in my original post (#8), there is a trend in America towards group-mindedness–that is, the sort of subgrouping that Jean-Jacques Rousseau thought would be the death of democracy (which requires a single, unified 'general will'). I suspect that on an unconscious level, Obama's colour must be a factor, albeit small, for Oprah's sudden desire to support a political candidate in a public manner. I would suspect, similarly, that some whites will, on an unconscious level, not support Obama out of worry of having a black man running the country. By 'unconscious,' I mean that people feel a repulsion that they can't explain, so they justify it with whatever post hoc explanations they can muster.
(A side-note: Many commentators here have cried, "It's a free country," and indeed it is, but the public support by a person as public as Oprah makes it an issue for public judgment.)

It’s still amazing that in 2007 when everyone swears things are better then they were in the 50’s, 60’ and etc that we still have people who write comments like this.

So what if Oprah campaigns for Obama based on his color. You’re trying to tell me that all the white presidents we’ve had in office didn’t have the backing of white people just because they were white.

It’s amazing that when anyone of color does something that the white population has been doing for years it’s suddenly wrong and racist.

Just because Oprah is backing Obama does not mean you have to vote for him. We’re all adults capable of deciding whom we want to vote for.

I think it’s time the white population took a step back from their holly then thy attitude.

My learned and well Educated, normal thinking Human Beings, Please refrain from making a fool of yourself, by even suggesting race was Involved here!

"I don't mean to sound racist" is cover for racist statements.

Strangely enough I can bet that none of you non-OBAMA supporters can tell anyone a thing about his views or his life for that matter… You see that HE is black and do not see that this country needs a change, and just maybe if we step outside our boxes we could realize that he has the potential to be a great leader. Has anyone read his book "The Audicity of HOPE"? He makes no bold statements of being a savior but one who champions positive change for all not just blacks. It must hurt that someone who is highly educated, respected and unbiased could actually be the next leader of the free world…and by the way BLACK…..

I just read a great number of the 279 posts here. I truly do enjoy when America shows that nasty racist streak that the rest of the world shakes their collective heads at. The ferocity and venom that some of these posts carry is stunning. (Is this the year 2007 or 1807?) For some, that question has been answered. Just as stunning is the irrational rationale behind many statements. But, as dumb as the American electorate can be, I believe as a single populace, our collective political IQ is rising. (This is the case even against the incessant onslaught of propaganda). The small minded, of course, will say Oprah's support of Obama is racially motivated. (but she didn't support Powell. She didn't support Sharpton. She didn't support Jackson. She didn't support Keyes, all African Americans who either ran or considered running). So that basically blows that thought process all to heck. And since generalizations and sweeping indictments seem to be the order of the day, I submit one of my own. (Let's see if you all can take it as well as you dish it). I submit to you that any who vigorously oppose Oprah's support of Obama are THEMSELVES racist (and probably proud of it), And more to the point, they are Republicans. I submit that this would not have been a blip on anyone's radar if she endorsed a black Republican candidate. (or even a white one). Those who write mean-spirited, divisive posts assume they are right. I will assume that I am right, as well. Meanwhile, a bright, thoughtful, energetic entity, who owes little to the establishment has entered the presidential race, and garnered the support of an extremely influential television personality. And they both just happen to be black. God Bless America.

screw Obama, screw Hillary, screw Oprah, Romney, McCain, Giuliani, Edwards, and anyone else for big government. Vote Ron Paul, vote for less taxes, less government, no foreign interventionism, and freer market. Ron Paul is the only logical choice when faced with the other candidates being socialists or authoritarians. (both attributes of hitler and stalin)

Wow, you people are straight up ignorant. No wonder George Bush is our current President, try to have an intelligent conversation ahout an endorsement and you people turn it into a race war…check yourself America!

Not voting for someone because of someone elses endorsement is still making a choice based on what someone is telling you to do. That is like smoking because your mommy told you not too. Not so bright America! Vote on the candidate you feel can do the most good for America and its citizens.

As an Indian-American I am outraged that our community has not embraced the greatest leader my country has ever known. Those ignorant enough to say Ghandi would be wrong. Mr. Michael Dell is a visionary, a pioneer, a man who knows that outsourcing is not just about cost cutting, but also about the joy american consumers feel when they are greeted on a customer service call by a man named Chip who speaks with a thicker bombay accent that Taj from Van Wilder. Despite these formidable points, our brown leaders have said nothing, done nothing. Why hasn't Deepak Chopra said anything? Where are the Sanjay Gupta's of the world now? How in Vishnu's name has that little bastard Kashif (from America's Got Talent fame) not stepped up? With these words, I implore you to make the call and vote Dell. To the adage, "What can brown do for you" I say "not much, sir, not much at all."

It's not Obama that is the problem, but his wife. She can't control her mouth. Did anyone see how she introduced her husband when he won the senate? "Please give it up for my Babies Daddy." Yes, I'm sure the first ladies would love that going on in their house.

In the early 90s, Oprah was accused of being rude or talking down to blacks. Recently, the hip-hop community said that Oprah hates black men. Now, let the small minded folks on this board tell it, she hates whites (non-black)and "poors". Which is it? You cannot have it both ways? The real issue here is that like it or not, Oprah is a powerful WOMAN and a visionary. She is under attack for having the courage to make a difference. As she has earned her money on her own and on her own terms, she is free to spend it, her good will, and her personal support in any manner that she chooses. So if she opts to not have a rapper on her show, that's her perogative. If she opts to build a million schools in Africa and not a single one in the US, that too is her perogative. If she announces that she is supporting Barack based upon her own personal convictions, that TOO is her perogative.

Likewise, it's your perogative to make your own personal endorsements. Don't hate because you do not have as much power and influence as she does. If you disagree, don't jump online and spew ignorant hate embarassing fellow Americans. Go register for YOUR favoriate candidate. Host a viewing party for a political debate. Volunteer to register voters. DO something for Democracy is not a spectator sport!

Hating on Oprah and flying your ignorance in all its blazing glory is futile, immature, and ineffective. Love her or hate her, Oprah puts her time, money, and power behind what she beleives in…can you say the same? Have you done anything to improve the plight of the "poors"?

I bet you have a bumber sticker applauding the troops for fighting for your freedom. Yet you jump at the chance to attack Oprah (or any other celebrity) for exercising hers. That's brilliant.

I am shocked that the lines of racism are continuing to run so deep in our country in 2007. I am a 26 year old "white" woman and I have never allowed the color of a person’s skin to affect the way I think of them or their opinion. We all bleed the same blood, no matter if we are Asian, White, Black, Spanish and so on. What a shame that it (racism) is all over this board.
I am all for Obama in 08′. He is a fresh face and a clean slate for our country. He has his heart and mind working in the best direction for US, the American people. He has a clear idea about what we need as American’s to begin to rebuild our country here at home after the terrible reign of the Bush Admin. and how to begin to improve our relations over around the world.
I support Obama because he IS the best that I have seen or heard in a very long time. He gives us the hope that things can actually get better here. Good Luck Obama…you have my vote.

i think the point that a lot of people have not touched on is that while it is oprah's first endorsement, she comments it is because she knows who he is and what he stands for. i have not seen anyone comment on these posts WHAT THE HELL EITHER STAND FOR OR HAVE PLANNED. its like the iraq war plan…noone can come up with a feasible solution, so mud is slung instead just saying "we could do it better." so maybe a lot of the haters on here remarking about skin color or sex have just been fed up with politics and how everyone in the races just sidesteps the important questions.

The reason why Opera went to Africa to build this great school for kidz was because the children would actually apreciate it and learn. Children here don't care about their education, they want what they see on MTV.

Why Oprah supports Barack.

Barack: Sen from Illinois
Oprah: TV show based in Chicago, Illinois.

Saying she suppports Barack because he is black is like saying Ann Coulter supports Bush because he is white…oh, nevermind.

Ghandi said that first they ignore you,then they ridicule you, then they fight you, then you WIN. Not only is support important but breaking through resistance is critical in 08. Oprah has not sold out to anyone and proven you can reach the top and be yourself.

I am white, age 67 and a democrat. You darned tootin' I am voting for Obama! First fresh ideas and mind I have heard since JFK. Oprah is a person as well as an entertainer. While I am not a big fan, she certainly has the right and obligation to support her candidate of choice. I am just glad it is Obama! As to those who said she should just stay an entertainer and not get involved, there is a question. If you are a carpenter, should you just stay a carpenter and not work for the candidate of your choice?? Ridiculous logic! Go "Bama" Helen in Texas.

For all those who feel racism is dead, and things have been equal for 40 or 150 years now, here is proof that its not. Racism is alive and well. Why else would there be 270+ posts on two powerful African Americans supporting each other? I would appreciate it if you same people would stop writing post about how there is no need for African American programs and other support system of the African American race. Let them help themselves since so many of us in this very blog wont.

The same reason we are in this war is the same reason Obama wont be president (The average American voter is ignorant and scared). Its too bad because he is an intelligent man who is far more qualified than our business failure of a president who got into yale because his daddy had money. Someone please tell me Bush's political resume which displays his political experience?

Obama has my vote, and its not because Oprah and or my parents bias political views which were past down from racist generations before me. I actually picked up a book or two and learned for myself.

Republicans screw the middle class every time they get a chance. Forcing society into haves and have nots. Those who missed history lessons this never ends well for a country.

Ask some people on one of the major airlines about the incident some years back where Oprah was flying (yeah, commercial– but first class at least), and she pitched a hissy fit to have a black flight attendant come up to work the first class section for her.

Is it so unrealistic to believe that Oprah would possibly support a candidate because she actually believes he would be good for the country and would be a good president? This says a lot about what some think of Oprah as well as Obama. Could we just once leave "race" out of the picture….. Obama is running for president and he just happens to be an african american….

I would like to know what is so wrong with supporting someone of your own race? If Barack Obama has great viewpoints and platforms that I believe in and agree with I am going to support him as well. Its obvious that he is a man that is worthy of support for his contributions to this nation past, present, and future. I don't think that a vote or support should be soley based on race however it shouldn't be looked down upon if that is a factor (not deciding factor) in one's decision. If Oprah were a caucasian woman would this even be an issue? I highly doubt it. Lastly, Oprah has not made a decision for me, I'll continue to research the candidates and their views and platforms on issues myself to make a decision. If support from Oprah can way a country to vote for someone then the United States has bigger problems than I imagined.

Hey! Persia Rosenberg, Ottawa, Ontario

This is great. I love it. You said,

Many of the commentators here are committing logical fallacies. Just because Oprah has supported people (never politicians, however) who are white does _not_ imply that she cannot have an unconscious motivation to support Obama because he is black. They are unrelated points. Similarly, because white people support other white people, and other black people support black people, does not logically prevent Oprah from having an unconscious racial motivation, nor does it imply that they have a racial motivation–we know nothing of those anonymous figures in the demographics; some are well-motivated, some are probably not.

So give me evidence that says Oprah is endorsing him simple because he is black? No emotion, just logic.

You, yourself said "we know nothing of those anonymous figures in the demographics". So how can you "divine" that her endorsement is racially motivated? What proof do you have. All of the "evidence" points to the contrary. Her audience is white. Her staff is diverse, but mostly white. She has never endorsed a black or white candidate. Help me understand Persia.

Come on America! We have to do better. Oh, wait you're from Canada. Wait! You can't even vote in our election.

Oh my gosh! First of all, Oprah has as much right to endorse and back Obama as anyone. There are tons of celebrities that endorse politicians and people can either accept their viewpoint or not. Same with Oprah. However, to say she is backing Obama because of race is just plain stupid!

To those of you who are critizing Oprah for building the school in Africa I say this "better to light one candle than curse the darkness". Oprah has lit a whole lot of candles both in this country and elsewhere. Her philanthropy in this country has not been publicized as much but she has donated millions to various causes including helping the Hurrican Katrina victims. Oprah has the courage of her convictions and acts on them. Hooray for Oprah and, please God, give us more people like her!!

It seems as though many people are asking "why now" in regards to Oprah's choice to support Obama in this election. A very common response has been that it is because of his racial identity. I suggest that it is just as likely that the hotbed of issues ranging from the ongoing wars overseas, a national recognition (finally) of the reality of global warming, the ongoing debates on gay marriage and stem cell research, to even the possible resurgence of the universal health care argument are all valid reasons for Oprah to be choosing this election to take a stand. Anyone who follows Oprah must be aware that her views are liberal, and it's thus not surprising that she has opted to support a left of center Democrat during this pivotal election. Maybe she is only supporting him because he's Black. Or, maybe, she feels that in 2008 we finally have the right candidate to end two decades of Clintons and Bushs running the white house. Maybe her personal friendship with Obama has nothing to do with it and she is blinded by racial issues. Or maybe she felt that, in past elections (and we should only be speaking about the last two as the power of an "Oprah endorsement" is a recent phenomena) she was not inspired by the Gores, Edwards, or Kerrys that were offered by the Democratic party - and I ask that readers remember that she did not hold similar fundraisers nor did she cast such support for Al Sharpton. Yes, Oprah is Black. But she is also an educated woman who has decided to test her power in the political arena. I only hope that we as Americans don't allow our own prejudices to force us to dismiss her views because of the color of her skin.

oPRAH DOES NOT SPEAK FOR THE COMMON MAN AS SHE LIKES TO PORTRAY HERSLF AS DOING, SHE LONG AGO FORGOT ABOUTANYTHING COMMON OR HAVING TO DO WITH BETTERING ANYTHING UNLESS IT'S DONE FOR HERSELF. WHAT A SELF FLATTERING AND SELF PROMOTING PIECE OF ARTWORKS SHE HAS TURNED INTO. sHE NEEDS TO STICK TO RECIPES AND TRAVELS ACROSS THE CONTRY WITH HER GIRLFRIEND AND STAY OUT OF OUR LIVES AND DEFINITLEY OUT FO THE POLITICAL FIELD WHERE SHE TRUEL SHINES AS A "KNOW-NOTHING" AND SIMPLY THE BIG MOUTH THAT SHE REALLY IS. THIS WOMAN IS THE LAST PERSON ON THE FACE OF THIS PLANT THAT NEEDS TO BE GIVING ANY ADVISE LET ALONE POLITICAL. MS. O IS NOTHING BUT A VERY FRIGHTENING REVERSE RACIST AND THAT RACISM OF HERS AND HER DETEST OF WHITES SHOWS

It sickens me to see comments like âOprah would be one more reason not to vote for Obamaã
Get informed people!!!! Letting one person shape your political views is disgusting.
Obama is in my opinion the best candidate and has the integrity and fresh ideas that America needs. He is a genuine person, which is hard to find in D.C. these days.

Hmmmm - let me see. Oprah endorses Obama because of skin color??? With that same logic, where was her support of Colin Powell? Unfounded arguments!

So - some of you have a problem with a celebrity endorsing a political candidate - because they should simply be "entertaining" us? But there are no problems with religious leaders doing the same thing and firing up their base for a particular cadidate (Jerry Falwell - HELLO!)

People that actually take the time to vote, are more than likely the same kind of people who are not going to be persuaded to vote for one candidate based solely on who endorses them. Unless you listen to Jerry Falwell - which is why we have the president we do now. BRAVO!!!

Wow, most of you on this board is so negative and hateful. Have we been watching and listening. This is 2007 and our country is in a deep hole because of our so called leader GW. He is killing our kids for his personal profit. It doesn't matter who you vote for, just make sure that you know your candidate no matter what race he/she is. I am a young black woman and there is just too too much hate in this world.

Her roots are starting to show now that she is endorsing a black senator. I hope a black president never gets elected. I don't want to see old lawnmoers and junk cars outside on the white house lawn.

If Obama wins the democratic nomination, I will vote for another party - I am voting the issues. There is just something about him I just don't like. He is way too arrogant and too inexperienced! No more learning on the job. As for Oprah, like Kennedy they are too rich and out of touch with middle America. I am Hispanic and I will not vote for Richardson either. Ethnicity will not determine my vote.

When I start to read a comment, and it is riddled with errors, I quit reading. FYI.

My personal opinion (as opposed to "The Truth"): Someone can support one candidate without opposing the other. Clinton and Obama are not exactly polar opposites.

Also, every candidate has at least some celebrity behind him/her, and at least one candidate always wins.

Finally, Oprah is extremely influencial among lower, middle and upper class women in America, and that is just a fact. She is someone a lot of people look up to, even if you don't. She's not just XY Celebrity Liberal (whatever Bill-O tells you). Providence, yes, she does help children in Africa, but in doing so she inspires people who witness her deeds in America to be better people. I don't think a good deed can be said to be less good because it isn't the deed you would have done.

Oprah's comments are just that, her own. It's not The Gospel. Hooray for Oprah for expressing her opinion. Y'all need to stop slamming her, take what she's said, do your own research and make your own opinion. She's just getting the ball rolling. Maybe Obama is the ticket…that's for us to decide now. Thanks, Oprah, for giving us something to think about and consider.

Because America is the RICHEST country in the world. She is helping POOR kids in poor countries. There are plenty of other millionaires that can help American children. And in case you haven't noticed, her roots are African.

Does anyone intelligent ever post on this? Oprah is the most powerful woman in the world. She works with poor Americans in kind with poor Africans — which seems a pro po as she is an African American…

Of course it is important that she backs Obama. And she is right — having seen him speak in person, I felt his sincerity. There is no better candidate.

Also — Obama is half white. His mom is white so I'm unsure how one could defend the theory that she likes him because he is black. He also went to Harvard, lived all over the world, worked with the poor and has written best sellling books. Read one of them and then share your opinion please.

To those who say Oprah is only supporting Obama because he's Black: Jesse Jackson is Black and she didn't support him. Alan Keyes also Black… she didn't support him. Al Sharpton, Black too.. and she didn't support him either. Give the woman a little credit here. Like her or not, you can't say she would be that much of a dumb sheep to risk her name/reputation just because he's Black.

I think America should give Oprah a message that her job is in broadcasting and her opinion should be her vote in a closed voting booth and not asserted on her TV show. America made Oprah, and America can break her also by not watching her show or buying her magazine. Most Americans do not get to mix their political views at work. Why should Oprah? Just because she has more money and appears to get by with it from her sponsers and advertisers doesn't make it any more ethical. She should buy paid time on television outside her showbiz career to support a candidate.
For the record, I had been receptive to Obama's platform and supportive of his campaign. I even watch the Oprah show occaionally. However, her blantant use of her show to promote her personal beliefs has alienated me.
I would like to see America take the glitz and glam of Hollywood out of our politics. I urge every American to decide their vote on issues, not a candidates showbiz appeal. Thanks for reading!

We live in the so-called land of "equality", where every single president from day one has been a white male.

At this point in time, our country is hated by people all over the world. Our foreign policy is ridiculous and our current "president" is a certified idiot.

If there was ever a time for a non-traditional presidency the time is NOW!

GO Barack!!! He has my vote.

What's wrong with Oprah supporting Barack, even if it's only because he's black (although I seriously doubt that's the reason, given her history of non-support of Blacks)? For many centuries the "good ol' boy" network has existed, propelling white candidates, both political- and employment-related, into positions simply because they were white and not necessarily the most qualified. So, now that the tables may be turned, that network balks. The expressed opinions of Oprah supporting Obama due to skin color is merely a matter of the good ol' boys (and girls) being able to dish it out but can't take it. Hmmph!!!

If she's trying to make a black verse white race out of this she's certainly throwing fuel on the fire now. She should also try and remember what country she made her money in and maybe help the poor here too. We'd all be better off with out her racsit political opinions.

Speaking as an African-American(AA), it's long overdue for O to support AAs. Contrary to pop. opinion, there are numberous qualified AAs in diverse disciplines. Since I believe that O caters to white people, I'm surprised that she's supporting Obama. Nevertheless, her support of him (and other people/concepts/things) is not a green light for my support of him. I am because I think.

Wow, lots of republican trolls out from under the bridge today.

To Joyce H., Salisbury MD,

I was wondering if someone was going to spew the propaganda/lies from talk radio on this thread. They have you hook, line and sinker my friend. Please do some BASIC research, and you will discover Obama is a Christian, attending the United Church of Christ with his family. It really should not matter in a country with freedom of religion anyway, but please verify your statements before bearing false witness next time.

Peace and God bless.

I would like to know more about Obama's muslim background. Is his Christianity a cover so he can pursue the presidency? He scares me!!!!

Wow…..people in America are given opportunities other countries do not. I must be ill informed or is Africa not 3rd World? Is there welfare offered in Africa? America is one of the richest countries in the world yet they cannot take care of their own. Winfrey pays enough tax dollars that should be used. Her personal choice to help those that CANNOT help themselves is commendable. Americans have the means, Africa DOES NOT.

If fathers/ stepfathers defined who we are and we were forced to live with those ridiculous limitations, none of us would aspire to achieve. If you really think that Rick Warren and Oprah Winfrey are backing muslims extremists, GO TO SCHOOL!

Here come all the angry rednecks out of the woodworks. I bet all the whiners have always supported candidates because they were white. Let her voice her opinion. This is america!

So his father is from Kenya, so what?his step father is a radical Muslin who care, thank God Obama is not a Muslim he is a CHRISTIAN, and as George from Arizon said it is HER OWM MONEY she can support HER OWN, no one said one word about Dr.Phil, who make him a big star. oprah, Oprah we here in BARBADOS LOVE YOU.

If that egomaniac Oprah is for Obama that means I will definately not vote for him.

I encourage everyone to look at Ron Paul. There is an alternative to all of this madness!!!

Many of the commentators here are committing logical fallacies. Just because Oprah has supported people (never politicians, however) who are white does _not_ imply that she cannot have an unconscious motivation to support Obama because he is black. They are unrelated points. Similarly, because white people support other white people, and other black people support black people, does not logically prevent Oprah from having an unconscious racial motivation, nor does it imply that they have a racial motivation–we know nothing of those anonymous figures in the demographics; some are well-motivated, some are probably not. I have already made my opinion clear above. Now I just want to make clear that my detractors must present much better arguments to make their case strong. It would be nice to see some critical thinking rather than emotional flaring.

Okay…lets put the sheets away. To the person who said Oprah is the devil, it takes one to know one.

Where did Barack Hussein Obama come from anyway? No one has ever heard anything about him until this year. We dont know him at all yet we want to put him in as our Chief and Commander because he is black and his mother is white? I dont think so. Being muslim, his mother is athiest, step father that helped raise him is a radical muslim, give me a break, what are you people thinking? We really need a muslim in our midst!

The large number of comments on this blog stating that color was the reason Oprah is endorsing Obama, is why RACISM IS STILL ALIVE AND WELL in the GREAT US of A !

When America starts to divert their primary focus from Racism and US POWER over the rest of the world, other Nations around the world may finally be able to live in Peace!

Color and Cash seem to be the #1 priority in all things American. And you wonder why the World has such a dim view of your Great Nation. What is the American Dream? Oh Yes, Liberty, Justice and Freedom for All? What a Crock of Bull!
Unfortunately, the Almighty US Dollar can't buy the American Dream.

As usual, Oprah is being her racist self, always supporting her own race. Maybe this sounds wrong to say but it's true. Is she going by his credentials or by the color of his skin?

I love Oprah but I cannot support a muslim who is the son of an athiest, father is from Kenya and step father is a radical muslim.

It's pretty ignorant to suggest she is only supporting him because he's black. When she is directly responsible for the success of Dr. Phil, Rachael Ray and that designer dude. All white. White people should stop being so paranoid when they see one black person support another.

Perhaps I do have a point now. I don't know or care about Oprah as I think she is evil, but I will say it is interesting that many black american TV personalities are backing Obama. Does this mean anything? I don't know. Perhaps he is the best candidate, or perhaps deep down inside our psyche we follow those who look like us the most. I don't know what I am. I could be white, black, hispanic, adamic. There isn't anyone running for office that looks like me. My last comment would be this - who are the mainstream Black Leaders backing and why? Can anyone tell me if they are backing someone other than Obama? Why is that?

One question I would like to ask Oprah. Are you supporting Obama because he is black? Oh course you are. Oprah Winfrey is a rascist. One look at her TV show or magazine will tell you. She would support the election of the devil if her were black. Oh wait, she is.

HEY –

Providence, RI

The individual who wrote the very first comment. Scroll up to the search bar and enter the following:

Obama's $6 billion poverty platform

Go ahead and find the article. Do your research. You keep talking about Oprah and leaders not wanting to help people here in America. Your friend Obama wants to do that. The question is, will you put down the wall of ignorance around you so you can stop and take a look at what's happening in this election.

It's not about race. Relax and take a step back. It's a beautiful thing. It amazes me that folks who are in poverty and need the most help… choose to elect leaders that really don't care about them. Wake up.

You think George W. or Mitt Romney care about you or anyone else who isn't affluent? Wake up Providence and all of the other cities out there. Wake up Georgia. Making 30k and having to feed a family of four is not "well-off". Take care of yourselves.

IF from Miami,

I'm sure you are correct about her having other charities, but you should be kind to everyone. Don't get so hostile sister.

Since you are "latin", wouldn't you agree that there are some very poor children from central and south america? I'll bet there are just as many poor malnurished latin children as there are african children.

I don't really have a point, I just want people to think before they speak. Oprah makes up like .0004% of charity. It is people like you and I (at least I hope you) that make the donations and feed these poor children.

A long time ago during Black History Month, two black gentlemen came to my school to discuss racism. I want to make this point VERY clear because there is a correlation here. They explained that all races have some sort of prejudice. ALL. But that doesn't mean everyone is a racist. Their example: If you were playing a pick-up game of basketball and two more players wanted to join who would you pick- the 6′3 athletic looking black man or the 5′10 white guy. The whole class chose the black guy. So the point is, who is Oprah going to pick: the black candidate or more white guys/woman? Doesn't mean she's racist, just perhaps a bit prejudice. The guest speakers made it clear that there is a difference between racism and certain prejudices.

To comment on those who say Oprah didn't endorse Jackson or Sharpton just do some thinking. Sharpton had a snowballs chance to win anything and Jackson was a candidate in the 80s. Oprah was a nobody then so who would care who she endorsed? From my perspective she didn't start brainwashing suburbia until the 1990s.

Canada, wow you guys seem tense. If bashing the entire US is your cup of tea then go ahead. Just remember we Americans don't all beleive you speak French and speak English with a strange dialect. And don't act like there's no prejudice in Canada. Seems to me like your contry's pro-immigration policies have had some racial backlash. Quit throwing stones from your glass house.

I think she just has a dream of sleeping in the Lincoln bedroom. I hope Mrs. Edwards lets her.

I refuse to be influenced by Hollywood for who I will vote for or against. The more the rock star is crammed down my throat the more likely I will vote for Hillary or Rudy. In other words, you could call me the anti-Hollywood because I like believe those people are fruits and nuts.

Why did Warren Buffett endorse Hillary Clinton, because she is White? Are you kidding? So, Warren Buffett is a racist now too huh? Absolutely not!

But wait, so if a black woman endorses a black man, she's a racist. BUT if a white man endorses a white woman, he must have made an educated decision to endorse her.

Come on people. Reverse racism. Give me a break and wake up. This isn't racism. If anything it's racist and very presumptious to say that the endorsement is because of race.
And these are probably the same people that say "Racism does not exist". Give Warren and Oprah some credit. They are not racists. They have an opinion about politics.

Sheesh… Come on America! We have to do better.

I'm sorry; but how typical. Blacks supporting blacks; What she is doing speaks volumns and she is not different than the Democrats/Republicans. They stick with their own kind no matter what. The basic truth has nothing to do with color. Barack Obama is too young, is too new to politics and has yet to prove himself. Hilary Clinton is our best hope. She has always shown herself to care about our Nation's people and as a woman, Oprah should be standing by her or keeping her mouth shut. That she would publically endorse one over the other speaks of reverse racism to me.

Be carefull what you wish for Oprah, just because a presidential candidate shares your skin tone.

How many millionaires are there in america? why would someone in america complain about oprah helping the poorest continent in the would.shame on you providence.why would you want to be selfish and critises oprah for helping us in africa.i bet you havent been here in africa. do you have a clue how africa has contributed to american success and prosperity!!! the slaves, the movies we buy and watch, the music, the nikes, pepsi, jack daniels, the list is endless. what have you ever bought that is african made? you were off the topic my brother or sister. Period.

I don't support any candidate just because a celebrity or anyone else endorses that person. But it is amazing that apparently many
White responders are complaining that a Black women would vote for a Black candidate. Would you want to guess how many of these people every voted for non White candidates? How many predominately White voting areas have non White representation? Not Many, and yet these idiots have the audacity to be outraged. As a rule, I don't expect many Whites to vote for Black candidates regardless of their qualifications, but at least be honest about it. I accept Oprah's reason for supporting Obama, it makes sense, but even if she said she would vote for Obama just because he's Black or Tall or Attractive or Speaks Well or Whatever, I would support her right to do that. It would be stupid, but most of you make that same stupid decision every election. Enough of that, I have an assignment for everyone. I'm sure we all agree that a person should not have to die because they can't afford health care. lets focus our energy on supporting candidates who will make sure that everyone has coverage. That seems so simple, if we can spend 20 billion a week to invade and occupy Iraq under false pretenses, I sure we can do this. Off you go, be strong and report back later; Peace Out.

Has everyone actually listened to Obama speak? He is a smart, articulate man who deserves to be considered for president. Since Obama is the senator of IL, where Oprah is from, I don't find it too hard to believe that she knows him. I don't care what color someone is, when there is a candidate this good, it's hard to look past him; unless you have a problem with the color of his skin. But then, anyone who has a problem with that, shouldn't consider themselves a true American.

K.R. in Kentucky, you are an idiot! Why shouldn't Oprah help people in Africa? The continent her ancestors were snatched out of centuries ago! Irish, Italian, Mexican, Cuban, Polish and German americans and any other immigrant have always supported their ancestral homelands. WHY CAN'T OPRAH! Is it because Black people are not allowed to do such wonderful things. Many more rich Black people should be doing the exact same thing OPRAH is doing. K.R. please think and learn to write complete sentences before you write another word!

It is obvious that the only reason Oprah supports Obama is because he is black. Given her social circles, it is surprising that she "has never gotten to know a candidate." Bull! Why not get to know all those running for president and make an informed decision. Why Obama? And, anybody who votes for Obama just because Oprah is endorsing him, is a person who is ignorant and incapable of making a decision for themselves.

You know, skin color MAY have been an added motivation for Oprah's endorsement of the Senator, but I hate to see every one belittle HERS or any other African-American's choice for which candidate to endorse. Besides, I dont see what all the fuss is about; she is simply choosing to ally herself with the candidate who will keep her best interests in mind… whether those be fiscal, social or (yes even) cultural. And how is this different from any other millionaire who chooses to hold a fundraising dinner? Almost all candidates (especially presidential ones) attend dozens of these on the campaign trail EVERY ELECTION- whether that be for local, state or national politics.
Ooohh right, she's a prosperous black woman doing it, instead of a wealthy white man… and beyond that, the senator and Oprah attend the same church and have spoken out about similar issues- both domestic and international. Though I do not presume to know the ins and outs of Oprah's decision-making processes (which have made her quite successful throughout her career), it is obvious that she and the Senator hold congruous ideas on a spiritual AND intellectual plane… regardless of what you think of her show or the causes she chooses to fight for, the woman is smart, industrious, concerned, successful and yes, AFRICAN-AMERICAN. Why cant her politics reflect that? I'm sure yours would. Lets give her the same benefit of competency that we would give to any other CEO/business/organization who has thus far endorsed presidential candidates.
Come on people. Leave racial antagonism where it belongs… in the PAST.

To whomever this person from Providence, RI jumps the conclusion because nothing compare here American to South Africa. Have you seen TV or News Time about those people from Africa that are starving to death especially children with their bodies like eskeletons and their stomach got swollen have you see like that here American? No I dont think so! I believe Oprah is doing right thing and I am fully support her as 100%! For your own information that I am latin! Oprah has many secret charities and you may not know that one of them could be in here for poor American! So dont ever jump the conclusion without knowledge about Oprah! I believe in Oprah 100%, and she does know what to do!

Oprah said "I am for Barack does not mean I am against Hillary or anybody else". It is not true, Oprah is dishonest woman too because if she thought Obama is qualified as candidate why wait so many months? she should support him public from the beginning. She supported with money first, she thought POLLS will be changed but it won't happen($32M doesn't change the front runner…), so now she think she can change pople's mind and beat Hillary, isn't that too obious? I respected Oprah as successful woman and rich woman. But I disappointed her, she supported Africa children with big money not our children, if you made money in America, you should return the money to America, that's the way good citizen and society means. Another thing is why against Hillary as woman, skin is thicker than homogeneity? Money is Oprah's, she can use her body and money anywhere she wants but the value and result are different sooner or later, I hate people to lie and sneak. Obama used Book Club from her, money, So what is the next? Obama will announce Oprah will attend to Cabinet Meeting like Judy? No more surprise.

The people on the left who would vote for Obama because of Oprah's endorsement are the equivalent of those on the right who support Fred Thompson because he plays a good DA on Law & Order.

To Jaime: You are mistaken! I am fond of all regardless of color, gender, and sexual orientation! However, I do not like the fact of Oprah's helping Africa more than America. Oprah is an Amrican; not African.

To Lawrence, Valenci, CA: No, my writing is not atrocious. If it were, I would not have graduated from a presigeous law school, and have a law (j.D.) degree. She helps U.S. too, but not as much as Africa. Remember, she is an American, not African.

Obama for President, Oprah for VP, Bush for Court Jester!

i lost my all confidence and belief in OPRAH when she aired a show about "SEX" and "RACISM" in entertainment. What really bothered me was the show was "ONESIDED" when they discussed "RACIST" the only thing that was brought up about racist was what "WHITE HAD DONE" while watching this, I was wondering "WHY" they were not talking aboout the "racist slander" thats going on against the white community in the music, TV shows such as "DAVE CHAPPEL SHOW", BET and so on. OPRAH I lost all faith in you as a leader of the HUMAN RACE. You are onesided just like the rest. If you were concerned for your show would have been about "ALL". and your only support "OBAMA" because he is black..

enough said.

I think the people who choose to complain about petty things in this article should quiet themselves, since it is people like that which put important issues on hold so news anchors and entertainers can pacify their mediocre and irrelevant complaints. Examples would be: "Racism in reverse", which was probably coined by a bigot themselves; and lets not forget that he's not the first black-democratic presidential hopeful, and that Hillary isn't the first woman-democratic presidential hopeful, and she never supported any of either before now. this has to do with what they stand for, and how they can change America for the better. How about, instead of bickering about things that you can't change you focus on what you can, like putting someone in charge who actually knows how to run a country and pull us out of our ever-exceeding deficit. How about for once in this new century, we show the world that we are still the country that once stood united and fought oppressors and those that sought to silence our voice from the world. It seems as though, in these last few years, we have forgotten what it means to be "Proud to be an American" and what it means to stand up for those less fortunate than us, both within and outside ourborders.

It amazes me how narrow minded people in America are. I'm more than sure Oprah doesn't give a hoot about the color of Obamas skin. Did anyone ever think that he is what we need. I'm sick an tired of this administration and their racist bull. Hello did anyone see what happened during Katrina. The Reason that Oprah doesn't help American Poors is because we are unappreciative. She has said repeateadly that we don't cherish education as much as they do, and I agree with her 100%. Let's open our eyes people and turn on our brains.

People, people stop bashing Oprah because she endorsed Obama. I don't remember a big uproar when Steven Speilberg endorsed Hillary. If you think it's about color, then I suggest you all start complaining about both candidates endorsements. What's with you people, can it be that maybe you can't except a Black president. I will never understand why Black people will not support Barack, he is the first Black candidate that really has a chance to bring about great change to this country. It's to early in the political game to get crazy, nasty and vicious with our words. I have been a Dem all my adult life and it makes me wonder if I should vote Democratic or just stay home next November!

When America takes the Almighty $$$$$$$$$ out of Politics it may actually elect a Great Leader! Till then a Great Leader is only based on how much Corporate Dollars they can raise. What A Pity that the most attratice credentials a Leader of your Nation can possess is US DOLLARS!

The Truck Load of Bucks being injected into Presidential Campaigns is enough to insure that not one child in the world would be dying of starvation, disease, living in bug infested swallors, or drinking contaminated water, etc. etc. It is truly nauseating! Why do they need a Year Plus Campaign? I guess to ensure they have time to raise as many US Dollars as they can as their private planes could take them across all States in a few months. Insanity!

Oprah…I have nothing against her but I feel all Celebrities should stay out of politics. It only lends to the Money Racket for them to throw their endorsements into the mix. They should have their vote like every other citizen and that's it.

The argument that Oprah is endorsing Obama because he is Black is flawed. Were it syllogistically so, wouldn't she first/also support Hillary? How do race and gender rank? Black first? Woman second? or Vice Versa?
Also, the blatent bigotry of these contentions made here today suggest that it is somehow wrong for Oprah to factor race and gender into her considerations. Who doesn't? Who shouldn't? Who doesn't factor religious idealogies into their support for candidates, nowadays? As a matter of fact, if you want to get ridiculous, there are campaigns to sway us one way or another based on how much a candidate pays for a haircut, whether a candidate wears the Mormon "garment," whether a candidate has been divorced, on a madame's call list, has a lesbian daughter, or a spouse with cancer or is a former president…I mean, I applaud Oprah if part of her actual considerations merit a modicum of substance that could actually matter–race and gender. Not whether one's husband is a philanderer or the other's wife is too tall or that one's kid got busted for dope.
Our nation's sons and daughters, husbands and wives, fathers and mothers are being killed, maimed, and wounded-physically and emotionally-every day in a war without end or sanity, and here we are blogging about whether it matters if Oprah likes Obama because he's Black- WTF?
I suggest that if we ALL, myself included, spent our time writing and calling our representatives, rather than yammering here, we could truly be a voice of the people. I, for one, will vote for whoever pledges his/her first act as president to call home ALL troops, immediately. That's who I'm voting for, the one closest to that outcome, be s/he Black or White, Male or Female, it is the ONLY thing that matters, and we WILL be faced with it in 2008, because, I suspect, in Sept., when Gen. Patraeus gives his report, no matter its content, President Bush WILL change course,all right; he will demand another troop surge, and this weak Democratic congress will give it to him. What must happen is that Congress must stop funding this war, there is no other way to stop this madman. And, it has become clear that won't happen. Every day that this Democratic Congress funds this war, it too becomes equally culpable for the sacrifice of the lives of our young American soldiers- for Iraq–the great new democracy of the Middle East.
I suggest we hold the President AND Congress responsible for every lost life, lost limb, lost mind, lost marriage, lost moment with a child, parent, spouse…this is a lost war, so let's save our soldiers, and not worry so much about whether Oprah likes Obama cause he's Black.

Plain and simple, she's never endorsed a canidate until Obama, who just happens to be black. If I was black I'd vote for someone just because they were black.

They're both Illinois residential elitites, so they probably have known each other for a few years. That has more to do with any endorsement than anything else.

White folks are funny. They support white candidates all the time, but never accuse each other of 'favoring' their race…

They also like to designate certain black people as 'leaders' of black folks, but white folks who don't like Bill Clinton or W. don't call them their 'leader.'

Hypocrites….

She's an idiot.

In response to a Post By Ruth San Antonio, Texas : July 18, 2007 5:06 pm
"Oprah has done more for humanity than any one I can think of in this day and age." You better think harder.
"So what if she helps Africa, those poor people need help. Shes one of the few awesome people who will do it." She is one of the few who can afford to do it. She is also creating a very small group of "Haves" in a land of "Have Nots."
"As far as Oprah endorsing Obama because he’s black thats nonsense." Are you saying it is because she is black?
"Have you ever seen the color of her staff that work for her?" Aside from state and federal laws she may also not want to alienate her viewers.
Now I will "Stop starting stuff and shut up!!!"
Have a nice day.

In response to the individual who posted from Providence, RI, and found the need to berate Oprah Winfrey and her choice to provide aid to the children in Africa instead of America - I would ask - what have YOU done to help the poor and less fortunate in America? You are so quick to cast stones at the efforts of one person to better our global community, yet what have you done to make this a better world to live in. This article dealt with Miss Winfrey's support of a political candidate and her desire to help advance the issues which Mr. Obama stands for, not her aid to a poor African community.

With regards to the very first comment, about 'why help other countries and not help your own'. Well, in America, citizens HAVE the opportunities, free schooling, assistance programs, scholarships, almost anything for a 'hard working' person that wants to get ahead. In these other countries, they lack resources for various reasons… I do not think of Oprah as a 'celebrity' I think of her as a VERY hard working woman that has came up from nothing and done nothing but worked and sacrificed to get where she is today. We can take a lesson from her. I came up from nothing - often homeless as a child and moved up to be something. So its not about what has she done for us lately, its more what have we done for ourselves.

I am not a fan of Oprah, but I do respect her motivation, hard work ethics and empathy. I see what she does, for what it is… Her work in Africa - is the difference between sure death for these young children, or a life with meaning, where then can turn and help others later on. They have virtually no hope, but in America, we do - we just have to pursue it…and stand on our own two legs to carry us there.

I like Obama, because he is 'real', and I look forward to reading more about his stand on certain programs and what changes he hopes to bring to our country and our people.

I want a president that knows the hard roads, hard work, and moreso, the hearts of the people they are representing. I will be looking back at each of their history, how they moved up, and out and 'then', before they could cover their tracks, what was what.

We talk about people that are in poverty, and how much do we, as a people do for them. We sit and wait for one person to make that difference, instead of rising, and being that person. I know homelessness, and hunger but I also had my eyes wide open enough to know, it was the choice of how my parents chose to live their lives, and I decided not to follow the same path.

I thought as a mother of five I was locked into nothing and I looked for others to help me - and realized I needed to look within myself… I thought I needed to have people hand me money for school, to get the degree, and someone showed me that its only a financial aid application and many scholarship / grant forms away.. its a never ending road which you need to find the strength to walk alone, because.. no one is going to walk it for you.

Here in America - the resources are there, but in Africa, sadly they do not have the resources or the means to make food from dirt or change people's attitudes about the worth of women, and many of us here in America know that feeling.

I do not think Oprah is going to coddle anyone, but rather pull them to the podium and ask them to clarify their stand and clear up assumptions…. I doubt she is going to give anyone recognition they did not earn.

Do not hate Oprah for her rise to fame, she's earned it, and that same opportunity is open to any of us - it just depends upon how hard we wish to do battle for it… can we push when we have no more to give? Sure you can… because I see the fight in your emails… so .. harness it.. do something about it..

Peace Out