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Now that Obama Barack has everything in black and white, no one should complain. Because, here is a man unwilling to take on issues with a racial bent, but takes on issues in a context of America and Americans and that is what really counts after all. Case closed

Here is a man borne from a love that grew irrespective of colour. Yes, he is black and yes he is white, so what? His manifestation is a confirmation of the kind of world we should seek to create. A world where we appreciate each other for our shared humanity.

Barack Obama was not a paticipant in the Civil Rights Movement for obvious reasons. However, when his time came he sought to emulate those who had gone before him and worked as a grassroot activist. In the process, He eschewed six figure salary in the corporate arena in order to work towards empowering the masses.

Here is a man who came from a home where colour was never ever an issue,it was only outside of his home that he came face to face with the monster that is racial politics. He did not allow himself to be devoured by this peculiar beast, instead from his book you can see this is a man who reflected on the implications of the deeply divided society he lived in and spent ample time in personal contemplation. Result? America has a candidate who is both intelligent and humane enough to work towards creating a just and better America.

Baraxk Obama may not have spent years on Capitol Hill, but his love of humanity, hardwork, integrity and knowledge will stand him in good stead. The years spent agitating at grassroot levels have given him invaluable insight as to the needs of the man on the ground.

America, you are the envy of the world. Seize the moment as many a nation would love to have a candidate of Barack Obama's calibre vie for leadership on their shores. Set the trend you trendsetters...y'know you want to.

Barack for President 2008!For a better America, for a better world.

I think Obama should stop hiding/covering up/dying his white roots. He has such a great opportunity here to show all Americans that he is diversity personified! He is a melting pot. American is a melting pot. Don't choose one race or the other, embrace your diversity! That's what this country needs, more openness, not more lines of division.

I disagree with this article. Obama is amazing and I hope he is elected president, but he needs to do a much better job responding to the issues of African-Americans. His career as a civil rights lawyer and community organizer in Chicago show that he has the issues of Black America at heart, but it seems like ever since he has been campaigning for president, those issues have been on the backburner for him. I understand he wants to make sure his campaign is different from Al Sharpton's, where his platform was mostly Black issues only, but if this is our first chance for a Black president, he needs to represent!! In fact, this article is actually evidence that he needs to represent more because look at the question that was asked: "What gives you hope that America is ready for a black president?" And instead of responding to that in a way that would invigorate and inspire Black voters and embrace his heritage and African-Americans' ability to overcome adversity and achieve anything, even the presidency, he wasted that opportunity and instead continued to draw out the argument of whether or not he is "black enough." If he took the opportunity to respond to questions like this in a way that would highlight the struggle and achievements of African-Americans, nobody would be asking if he was "Black enough." So... Obama, I got love for you, but please REPRESENT!!!

The problem is not Barack Obama! If I hear someone else say is he black enough, I'm going to through up on them. To anyone who ask that question, shows their unintelligence. Mr. Obama's race is not a factor. It is the snynical unbalanced media who, and the slave mentality of people who think in terms of black enough. America is still a victim of slavery. No one has ever asked was Mr. Bush white enough. Why because the nation only expects white men to be in the oval office.

[...] at the Black Journalists Convention in Las Vegas last Saturday, Obama addressed the question over whether America is ready for a black president: But then Pitts asked that last [...]

I find that as a black man in America, you have to be a "certain" kind of black to be black in America. You have to be up for some ebonics when the situation arises (You know, yes on the playground, no in the Office boardroom); you have to be "articulate" when addressing other the races other (Although the label, "Being Uppity" is unescapable with our people); and most importantly, you have to demostrate you, "Understand where we came from" to be trusted by Black America. I grew up during the Civil Rights struggle. I was born into a broken family. I had a mother who cleaned houses for white families. But I am a hopeful man who sees this country as a United one and I refuse to allow my race or any other race to tell me different and to tell ME how I should demostrate my blackness. I refuse to let scars I'm suppose to have living as a black man in America darken my heart. That's MY understanding where I came from. It just seems being black in America today has become a sold-out money-making venture than the celebrated culture born of beauty and uniqueness. Yes, we can dunk, run a football and rap, but can we truly survive outside of this tight parameter Black America has created and cultured? Can we actually strive for something better for all Americans and the world? I have hope we can.

If being "Black Enough" means: sagging pants, playing pocket pool, degrading our women, disrespecting our parents & elders, being able-bodied and collecting welfare, blaming everyone but ourselves for our plight in life, glorifying violence and stupidity, then I guess Senator Obama is not "Black Enought"! Stay true to yourself Senator Obama!

The dialogue that has been taking place about Mr. Obama's "blackness" brings up a topic I have curious about. If a black man and a white woman have a child, I would guess they are considered 50% black. If that person then has a child with a white individual I would guess they would be 25% black. If that progression continued then each time, the offspring becomes "less black" (i.e. 12.5%, then 6.25%, etc). The question then is whether there is a point at which someone is "no longer black"? At 10%, 5%, 1%, .1%? Are many of us really "black"....or "white"....or does it really matter? Who is a minority?

It would be great if EVERYONE would give their support to the candidates based on their merit and how they propose to handle the issues, instead of how black, white, or plaid that candidate is or claims to be. This ideal, however, is not our reality. No matter how much sense it makes to base our votes on what a candidate does rather than what she or he looks like, some people will always vote for the latter. Now I can go off on some “save our children” tangent and propose a new or re-formatted, mandatory civics curriculum in our middle and high schools. But then we’d have to make sure the kids are actually going to school, and not giving the teachers a hard time, and that they actually care about what’s being taught. And we can keep going down the line until we enforce bans against girls and women having children unless they meet certain qualifications. I know I’m getting a little far-fetched and off the subject.

Barack is a black man and Hilary is a white woman…you can’t claim to be color-/or gender-blind…it is what it is. We need to embrace these differences and accept that these unique perspectives may be what our country needs, or at least a step in the right direction (but for the most part race and gender are also moot points). For voters to ignore these facts is just like saying, “Let’s just keep voting for the same old guys because we’re not ready for that kind of change.” The answer is simple…yes, Obama is black enough & and yes, Clinton is white enough. The question that matters, as many have already stated, is “Who will do a better job?!?”

The statement of Senator Obama 'balckness' is a mute issue. It is time that our community move pass this petty childesh behavor. This mans race did not play a roll in his election to the Senate and should not play a roll in this one. In closing, remember that not all the leaders of the old Roman Empire were Romans. They came from all over wanting to serve the their nation and we should do the same. This is the 21st century not the 16th.

I think that Obama and Hillary are unelectable. Unfortunately, the republicans who might stay home for the election will come out of the woodwork to vote against a black man or a woman. If Obama or Hillary are nominated, the republicans will win. Mark my words.

I think it's sad that as a nation it appears we will never get over our racial sickness. It's chronic. In the begining I believed that white America would reject him; I believed that white America would never allow a person of color to become president. Now it's my believe it's blacks who will in the end take him down. What is wrong with us? Has the legacy of slavery and the enduring of racial injustice so tainted us that we will never recover? Can we ever unite on anything? We don't need whites to be against us because we seem to take care of that all on our own. White America is watching us in disbelief. Here is a canidate who could possibly make history and instead of offering support we are tearing him appart. We should be so ashamed!

Obama didn't nail it at all. The question of "is America ready for a black President?", is not at all the same question as "is Obama black enough?". In fact the questions are mirror images of eachother. The first asks whether white America would accept Obama as President. The second asks whether black America would be comfortable with Obama as President. I believe they are different questions requiring different and more astute answers.

What should we consider to be black enough?
He's black, he has a black wife, and they've had a black child. What an ignorant question to ask Mr. Obama.

This just shines the light on the undeniable underlying issue (you know, the pink donkey one in the corner of the room) that the good Senator from Illinois highlights: The black caucus and the prominent black leaders of America consistently and unilaterally think, 'What's in it for me.' Unless of course they are already in the limelight and on the speed dial of Rev. Al and D-Wade. This truly shows their jealousy and cutthroat attitude towards the Senator who happens to be articulate, fresh, and young. The Senator is correct when he say's that Black America has the negative racial prejudice. I bet they have a problem with the ex Congressman ( CGN Ford ) from TN as well. When will these disgraceful journalists=s from the Black Media start writing and printing the truth just like the Honorable Senator from Illinois tasks them to do!

Obama provided an excellent response. This has to be one of the silliest questions out there at this time. I'm very disappointed that the NABJ had the nerve to waste time talking about this silly subject.

I think Barak Obama is absolutely correct. What difference does the race of a leader make? I am an older white female independent who will most likely vote for Obama if he becomes the Democratic selection for president. I like what he says. I like the hope he holds for our country. I like that he wants to go after the Taliban hiding in Pakistan. So far, I haven't found much that I dislike. And I don't give a hoot what color he is.

I believe Barack Obama is 100% correct. As an African-American and a Leader, too often, African-Americans distrust someone of color when they appeal to whites. It's the uncle tom theory of distrust! If he or she is embrassed by others, the question is posed as to why, because its not the norm?

GO OBAMA!

What is blackness, what is being black enough? There are Africans who come to this country and are accused of not being black!! There are people from the Caribbean who come to this country and are accused of not being black!! If you do well in school suddenly you’re acting white. I submit that to you that this “elusive blackness” is nothing but a security blanket put in place by some people to justify their station life and has nothing to do with color, but a whole lot more to do with jealousy towards those who have set their sights on accomplishing something noble with their lives.

I submit to you that those who would define blackness in such narrow parameters should study their own history because from slavery until the present, we have been on a journey that is far from over. Every day when we look in the mirror we should see that we are the realization of the dreams of that first African who set foot on American shores in chains. Guess what the chains are off, we are free now, the sky’s the limit and we can’t let anyone define us or put us in a box. So to Barack Obama who has the audacity to run for office, I say God speed and make us proud!!

I understand Obama's frustration with this silly question that is repeated over and over. I too am a black male attorney. Growing up I was constantly berated for not being "black enough" because I was an honors student and spoke properly. One entire year in high school an individual insisted on calling me an Uncle Tom each time our paths crossed. He did not know me, we were not in any classes together and we did not run in the same social circles This experience was astounding and befuddling because I, of course, saw myself as black as the next black person. I was raised in a housing project by parents from the rural south who had once been sharecroppers. I was and am acutely aware of my blackness and I defy anyone to question it. The black community needs to reexamine its attitude about this issue. For all the talk of lack of economic and educational opportunities once an individual takes advantages of them, and earns a place at the table, he or she is then berated by our own because of a flawed view of what being black means. This hypocrisy and small-mindedness needs to end as all it serves to do is amuse white folks. The black community needs to understand that the most imposing figure of a black person which can exist is one that is educated and fully capable of functioning in the world at large. This ability does not make one any less black. The NABJ should not have asked this ridiculous question irrespective of the number of people with it on their minds. This nonsensical challenge to one's blackness is nothing new in the black community but it needs to end now, otherwise we perpetually set ourselves apart when we know we share the same concerns and interests as any other group of people. Of course "blackness" is not simply color, but "blackness" is not a one dimensional characteristic that means your status is questionable because you do not fit neatly into a sterotype of what "being black" means.
Obama is as black as he needs to be, now let's move on.

As a Black Business man residing in the Northern, CA area, I have noticed that I receive more trust and more business from Whites than from Blacks. I have to answer more questions and provide more proof with my Black prospects than with my White prospects and still more often than I like admit, not get the sale.
For years I wondered if it was my sales approach, but I've come to the conclusion that it simply boils down to mistrust. I've hated to admit that truth but it is what it is. And it is very sad. I can identify with Obama.

Dear Dan, NY:

If people were excited about Obama based solely on his race, we would have been just as excited about Sharpton and Jackson when they were running.

One of the reasons that a lot of people are attracted to Obama is his honesty – he's very open about his opinions, which is rare among politicians. Obama appears fit to lead this country, and that's what matters...not his race.

I don't believe color should have anything to do with the canadites ability to do the job.

Color is and will always be discussed when the individual is non white. this is the nature of america. The question america should be considering is if Obama can do the job. No one person can bring this conutry together that is something we as a people must do. However, one can quide us in the right direction and for that job I feel Obama is the one with the power to bring about a change in the way we as a people view ourselves.

I feel that Obama definitely took the right stance. He's obviously aware of the divide between races that still exist in this country, but if America is really the open-minded melting pot that we want people to believe we are, we must put race aside when voting for our leaders. I feel his response came from the heart, but he also knows how to play the political game. People need to start realizing he's smarter than he's been given credit for. A black President? Sure, why not? An Asian, Latino, female, Native American? Sure! As long as the person can do what is best for the country, help bridge so many gaps that exist across race, socioeconomic, political party, geographical (the list goes on) divides, and actually use the Constitution in their decisions, I say skin color/ethnicity/gender is a non-issue! Good for Obama for finally being frank about the real problem with people questioning his skin color! We need more answers like that.

He is going to deal with this issue the rest of his life whether he was in the political field or driving school bus. Race issue in America will never go away, the better question would be, can he maintain his composure long enough......

what about his dad being a MUSLIM!

I think he gave a great answer . . . but it was to a question he wasn't asked. You report that Pitts asked him why he things America is ready for a black president. He did not suggest Obama isn't "black enough" for the black community, but rather that he, or any black man, would be "too black" for white American voters. Obama shouldn't have to answer that question either, but it's the one he was asked. So why did he go out of his way to chastise black journalists for a question this black journalist didn't ask him?

Obama is the embodiment of King's hope that people would be judged not "by the color of their skin but by the content of their character." As he sits at the table King described with the sons of former slaves and the sons of former slaveowners, it will be in brotherhood, not complaint. Obama refuses to play the "race" card. Rather, as a community leader, he asks what his community can do to address the problems they face so in a spiritual mutual responsibility they can work hand-in-hand with others to address the problems we, as Americans, face.

I THINK THEY'RE ASKING THE WRONG QUESTION. THEY SHOULD BE ASKING IF HE'S EXPERIENCED ENOUGH. I THINK NOT!!!
GO HILLARY!!!

Rather than asking if he's 'black enough' we should be asking if he's 'white enough,' after all, both questions are equally ridiculous and the fact that there still exists the race divided faction, really illustrates the key point of 'black America' holding onto something that doesn't exist anymore, namely, "race being an issue to 'hold a man down.'"

Get over the race divide, there are greater issues that exist in our free country today. Frankly, being a 'white American' I'm quite sick of it!

I like Obama. I fear the Republicans and Hillary. I have contributed to Obama's campaign and my wife has upped the ante. The idea of a black president appeals to me even though I am white and grew up in racially polarized communities. Coleman Young blew it in Detroit but Obama shows great promise. I trust him much more than any of the other front runners (my second choice being Edwards.) At one time I prayed for Romney but this guy flip flops more than a fisb trying to get back in the water. He has no character to judge!

do you really think the media will stop asking this questions. As long as they keep asking – Clinton will keep getting the backing of blacks with her slow southern accented speech when she is talking DOWN to a black audience.

I do think Obama had a good answer. However, I still don't think that is going to be enough.

To the educated, middle to upper class Americans, his race his less important than what he will do. But there are a lot of voters who do not fit into this category.

Many people have racism they do not even know about. Many people are reluctant to vote for Obama merely because of his race.

The race for the White House should not be about his race, unfortunately it is...in a large part of the US.

Sincere, candid, and filled with veracity. This issue of is he "black" enough puzzles me as well. For me, a white-American who grew up in white middle-class suburbia, I see no color. White is black. Black is white. Hispanic is Asian. Straight is gay. Muslim is Christian. Enough with the labels. Look past it all and just look at the person. Underneath it all, we are all the same. Is Obama the right candidate for President is the correct question, not is Obama black enough?

Am I the only one who think that the question about whether he is black enough is more about the fact that he is african (from Africa, not the son a former slave) and American? It's not about his skin color. Some Blacks in America see a difference.

I hope Obama's response will lay to rest this issue of color and race. We seem to pride ourselves on our integration since the Civil Rights marches, so why this question now? Partly because many feel that Hillary is the "black" candidate by virtue of her link to Bill. Bill represented all of us well, regardless of ethnicity, but Hill is not Bill. Lets look at Obama for his talent, or lack thereof, his leadership – strengths or weaknesses, but not his race. He is the best hope this country has for a fresh start I believe, and that is the ONLY issue before us. I am a white, upper middle class professional Republican – but I support Obama, emotionally, in speaking up about his record and with MONEY too. I hope he is the standard bearer for the Democratic party and our next President, time is running out for a true leader who can move US forward.

I wonder if a majority of you that agree the question of Obama's "blackness" being ridiculous would defend/agree so vehemently if the issue was Romney defending being a Mormon?
In my mind the two issues really aren't that far apart...but I would argue that the PREJUDICE that exists against a Mormon verus a Black Man running for President in America is MUCH stronger and potent....especially in the South. The South would rather see a Black President rather than a Mormon President...does anyone disagree?

I think this was one of the very few questions that Obama handled himself correctly. I have followed the 2008 race very closely and still do not understand why so many people are excited about him. I think he sounds very inexperienced and quite frankly not that intelligent. I agree that a person should not be judged based on race. I wonder though if Obama was whiter is anyone would be that excited. I think the only reason anyone is excited about him is because of his race. It ceraintly is not because he is a good candidate or has good policies. So before he states it does not matter he should be thankful that he is the color he is otherwise I think he would not even be running.

Let's face it friends:

Senator Obama will not get elected because he is black. White people fear that he will put "black issues" to the front of his administration and before you know it, we will not only be apologizing for having held blacks in slavery, but every white person will then become a slave. He will not get elected and he knows it. He is only trying to bring attention to himself.

I think it's important to remember the question was started by two black neoconservative republicans, not members of what we know of as the traditional "black" community. They were probably asking to point out to other blacks that if Obama is black enough, then they are too. But, the issue has to due with one's allegience to community values, not so much one's appeal to whites. That's why, for me, Obama's black enough. The two neoconservatives who started all of this . . .

Obama's answer is right on target: Blacks don't trust each other and despite our gains over the years some people are still shackled mentally by the lagacy of slavery – the heart of which was mental slavery.

It's a SHAME that such a question persists in this day and age

Go Obama!!

I am a "White American" and what is scaring me is the emphasis being put on Obama's race. What do they mean is he "black enough". The black population is about 12%, what about the rest of us?

i'm white. the whole idea of being "black enough" is counter productive to any black movement. by even asking that question, it increases the racial rift among americans. to make race truly a non-issue, we need to completely stop asking such ridiculous questions. obama finally answered in a rational manner. the "catching a cab" response serves only to polarize people. let it go...

The WINNER by the number of comments mostly positive Obama scores high with the voters.

He may lack long time experience but then there is not much political baggage either.

We as black people must realize that questions like this are part of the "Divide & Conquer" that will not allow a black president in my lifetime. Those in power who try to keep black people from getting their fair share, count on it & feed into it, but we are still our own worst enemies.

Barack 2008

I tell you, I say it again and again, he's the one! And with this response I again know just why this man, this Senator, has my vote and has had it ever since I first heard of him in 2004. He makes more sense than any candidate, democrat or republican, running today. Yes, indeed, he nailed it and I hope we don't hear this ridiculous question again of him, who not only is he black enough, for whatever that means, but he is presidential enough, whatever 'color' his skin is (Is it magenta, pink, orange, chartruse, what? Is his blood red? What idiots!!!), to win the nomination and should!!!!

I think it really does not matter what color you are, if you can do the job, do it and let your record stand for itself. Black, White, or Orange, if you do what you say you will, you will be a person who is respected and loved.

To anyone out there who is sitting at home thinking that they can sit on the sidelines and wait for the democratic candidate primaries to resolve so that the real election can begin...

We are having the next Presidential election of the United States RIGHT NOW, in forums like this one. We are now, in an immediate sense, choosing our next president, through discussion, through debate, through careful investigation and communication.

This is how our forefathers imagined a democracy to work. People coming together to say what they like and don't like about a candidate.

Barrack Obama has inspired this. Whomever wins the Democratic primary will almost certainly win the general election as well, unless the candidate picked doesn't inspire the kind of watchfulness and passion that Barrack Obama has inspired on this page.

Do not wait to get involved. Do not wait to voice your thoughts and opinions. Do NOT let the media pick our next President because it is expedient, profitable and divisive of them to.

Take charge of our democratic process and the people that would drag this country further into mediocrity and greed, fear and hate, superstition and stereo-type, will not have a chance to rely on what they constantly depend upon... our inaction, our silence, our continued belief that there is nothing we can do to affect the goverment and through the government the future of our own country.

By supporting Barrack Obama now, you are winning the election. To wait, you lose it. For all of us.

Congratulations to Mr. Obama for handling such a ridiculous question with class. I must say that our American neighbours can learn a few things from us here in Canada. One would NEVER hear a question like that asked in Canada. It would be a blatant affront and completely unacceptable. Canada does not cirle the globe trumpetting its values of equality and fairness, it simply chooses to quietly practice what it believes. There is strength and beauty in our diversity and we are always ready to experience it in our leadership.

We are all hypocrites, all of us, and what a shame, with all this talk about human rights and democracy, and the new world, and, yet, we seem stuck in the old ways of history, as tho history if God, and we have to continue hiding from ourselves if we want to continue admiring our reflections in cracked mirrors. Let's do better. Let's all ask ourselves whether we are real enough.

Senator Obama nailed the answer. It is time for Black America to examine why some black people have a distrust of a black man who appeals to white people. White people don't have that same distrust of their own. Imagine if a journalist asked a white candidate if he were white enough?

The only people I see making this an issue is the media.It's the old divide and conquer tatic.This question is ridiculous and hopefully this will be put to rest and we can move on to issues that effect us.

I am a 33 yr old African American woman from a very large family in NY. We NEVER focus on the color of one’s skin. In the case of the candidates running for president, for us, it will come down to their positions on issues we deem important. I’m not referring to "Black" issue, but American issues! It never entered my mind to mistrust Sen. Obama because he’s Black. I truly don’t know where that comes from. I believe Mr. Pitts was asking if the REST of America is ready for an African American President. Everyone in this country, not just African Americans, needs to reexamine their views on race.

The question alone shows how ignorant so many people in this country are.
It's pretty pathetic actually.

There are so many issues that are important to America today. What color a candidate is, what religion they are, these are things that should NOT be the issues.

Mr. Obama sounds more like a professional victim rather than a man able to be President of our country. As a black man I take offense with his lack of courage and intergity.

When i close my eyes and listen to him speak it sounds like me speaking if i had the forum or stage. I only hear that someone is voicing my opinion and saying exactly what i want a leader who is repesenting me to say. Obama is my voice...color has nothing to do with it...except for he [Barack] is the answer to MLK Jrs. dream...that all men be judged by the content of thier charactar and not the color of thier skin...

I really think it's time in history to stop asking this question. The question should be, "is this the man that can lead America? Is this the man that can fix the errors that were created by this administration? Does this man have the pulse of the majority?" I say the answer is yes, Obama is a man of his word, and he has everything and more than I could've ever hoped for in a president. It's truly time to look at who this man is, and bring to surface ALL of the contributions this man has made to humanity, and the media needs to be responsible and stop trying to make people try to look at this from a race stand point.

Seems to be a truly American question. In Canada, I don't think anyone would care if the person was Black, Indian, Asian, French, English, etc.
There seems to be this illusion that America is shedding it's racism, but at the very end of the day, Americans like to pick teams. Black or White, Liberal or Conservative,Religious or Secular, left or right,English or Spanish, rich or poor.
Maybe Obama could actually make the United States united because if you could stop looking at colour, maybe you would stop looking at the other stuff.

Whites may think they don't ask if white candidates are white enough. In reality it's the way they ask. They say things like "having a beer" with them, or if they are just are a "good ol boy". John Kerry did not fit the profile, right? Obama's father is born in mother Africa and it disqualifies him from being black? Perhaps Obama is not "ghetto" enough for some people even though he lived and worked in the ghetto.

I think he did nail it. I don't recall Colin Powell being asked if he was black enough. Gen Powell was considered a presidential candidate based upon his leadership abilities and so it should be with Mr. Obama. Martin Luther King had it right in longing for the day that blacks would be judged by the content of their character rather than the color of their skin and this is something both blacks and whites should live by.

I absolutely agree with him! My question is why in the year 2007
IS THIS STILL AN ISSUE!! ENOUGH
ALREADY. Really, it should be may
the most qualified person that supports
the issues that are important to you
get your vote.

Obama is not my first choice for a nominee, but his response and his challenge are brilliant.
If my favorite candidate doesn't get the ring, I wouldn't have any problem at all cheering this man on.
What's the issue with an intelligent, considerate, thoughtful individual running the show?
That's what it's going to take to repair the reckless damage done by these single minded, inflexible bullies, who have put the constitution in Dick Cheney's shredder.

I am black, and personally think the question is a legitimate one. It is not irrelevant to ask Senator Obama what his views are on political issues that effect the black community, especially after all the ill-treatment over the centuries from the white majority, that still goes on today, regardless of if whites will admit wrongdoing and at least try to correct it. I do not think the question is literal in that if he is "black enough" because he is obviously a black man, but rather if he is conscious of the consequences of america's brutal history towards blacks and the effects it has had on blacks in america. I support Obama, but i am concerned myself because the last thing we need is a black president that ignores black america like all 43 of his rich, white protestant male predecessors.

This silly question is left over from slavery in America. As an African American Army Vet. my view of Sen. Obama is that it is time for America to have for the first time in the history of this Republic a deeply disciplined, highly intelligent Prez. of ALL of America's citizens.

The Constitution says 35 yr. old and American Citizen. Let's vote.

God forbid that this person, Senator Obama be be denied the leadership of this country. He intelectualy outstrips any other of those who aspire to the presidency with ease.

As a life-long white person, I say Obama nailed it.
And now, let's get off of it.
The press will always try to distract us from the REAL ISSUES.

Obama is the son of a white mother and a black father, so why is he more black than white? I give kudos to Obama for always acting in a genuine manner and staying above the moronic attitudes and "black enough" litmus tests Sharpton and Harry Belafonte want to impose upon any African American who dares (the nerve!) to be more successful than they are.
I like Obama, because before flying the colors of skin or party, the man comes across like the individual he is.

Barack Obama has a razor sharp intellect, and her is another thoughtful, insiteful answer to a question. I love him. I love him. I love him.

Very good point by Mr. Obama. As a white man married to a college educated daughter of a Sierra Leone native, I 100% agree with Baracks statement about the distrust within the black community. My wife who works in the Division of Youth Services, mainly with other black children comes home and tells me of being called the 'whitest black person on earth, sell-out, traitor, ungrateful of her color' by the children she works with; for various reasons but directed more towards the fact that she works for 'The Man' aka the government and graduated from a rather nice university, and not so much because she is married to a white man. Her father works for the World Bank, and also is refered to as a sell out and imposter by other blacks in the community. So again I agree with Mr. Obama after seeing a certian level of distrust towars my wife and her father. Notice the refrain from using 'African American', it's not due to racisim, but out of respect to the Africans who are Americans such as my Sierra Leonian and Ghanian in-laws.

Skin color is irrelevant. Why didn't Obama say so?

I don't have the confidence that Senator Obama will overcome America's underlying racism. I have felt it and have seen racism at work throughout every aspect of life. Most people will swear publicly that they are above racism and discrimination, but in truth these two are in abundance behind the public facade of openness.

I believe the question being asked is the same old one, "will whites accept/elect a black president?" or "is America still racist?"

Com'on Black America Wake Up!!! We finally get an African American capable of becoming an electable canididate for president an we have doubts where there are none. Sometimes we can be our own worst enemy. What is 'black enough'?? Someone who shouts the loudest "the white man is holding us back". Schools are integrated now, employers hire college gratuates according to their achievements not their skin color. How do you think Obama got to the level he's in. He got there by being ambiitous. Not by being too black or 'not black enough'.

Before I answer it should be said that I'm a white...some might say...a confused white man. Why is there a focus on the blackness or whiteness of any candidate. Shouldn't the focus be his or her "Americanness", his or her "equal opportunityness", and his or her "I can lead the nationness". Do blacks expect some dividend from electing a black president? Do whites expect some political loss from a black president? Leadership and vision are what matters. I don't care how many white or black people are arrested for violent crime...what I care about is that criminals are arrested. I don't care how many police officers are black or white...what I care about is that there are enough and that they are all fair. I don't care the skin color of judges, district attorneys, mayors, governors, senators or presidents if they finally lead the nation rather than fail in the office (like is presently the case)...and thereby fail the nation...it's children, teenagers, workers and elderly. Enough from the press on these superficial but easy issues like blackness. Focus on whether the candidate can do the job. Otherwise you in the press are languishing in your jobs.

I don't know who started this thing about not being "black enough" in reference to Senator Obama; but it is irrelevant and pointless. Obama is running for President of ALL americans, not just black americans. As such, he must he must inspire and obtain the support of black americans, white americans, hispanic americans, asian americans, arab americans and others. And that is not including gender and other voting blocs.
SO effectively, Barrack is right on this. Let's move on.
The press might want to investigate exactly who or is instigating this view.

Blackness may not be a "legitimate question" for ANYONE to ask Obama, but the attitudes and biases in the question are real. Thus, the issue will never be put to rest until after the votes are counted and he is elected President. I am embarrassed to say that I voted AGAINST John F. Kennedy because he was Catholic. I learned the lesson of my own bigotry. Since then, I have voted only on the basis of the candidates' brains, integrity, honesty, trustworthiness and vision. Unfortunately, as a result, Nixon, Regean, Bush, and Bush have all been elected, with the rare exceptions of those for whom I voted: Jimmy Carter and Bill Clinton. When will we learn? Oh, when will we learn? Perhaps after the first gay president is elected? That will be the true test of our democracy.

What I find interesting- er, what amuses me- uh, its amazing to me... etc... etc... etc... If I don't support then I guilty of race discrimination in some way by Baracks supporters. It is their argument. Unfortunately the fundamental truth of the matter is that Barack is ill prepared to deal with the aftermath left behind by the Republicans. America will depend heavily on a person with access to phenomenal counselors. Its amazing to me that in this time of need the most people seem to be interested is breaking new ground. If Barack did get elected his first 100 days would be a celebratory session of the black community, how is that not race related? I find it peculiar... Barack would even support a lack of an experienced politician to correct what has been obliterated by the Republicans on american soil and abroad.

It shouldn't be about color. It should be about what he can do for everyone. If blacks want to be treated the same as everyone else, then stop separating yourselves. If everyone is to be treated equally like Martin Luther King wanted, then we have to stop identifying ourselves by race. Again, his race should have nothing to do with his qualifications to run this country. It should be about his ability and what he can do for everyone.

Sen. Obama is a breath of fresh air from the usual run of the mill politicians we have become accustomed to. This is supposed to be a political race. That should be the extent of it. No one in this country is pure bred anything. We are all half this and some of that. It's time to stop painting and labeling everything. Listen to the man. He makes some good points. I am middle class, white and from middle America. I'm tired of business as usual. America needs a new voice. The "Others" have had their chance!

Mike

I think that Obama's answer is more
than 100% correct.If he is not black enough could some one tell me what is his color ? Maybe red ,yellow or orange!For me this question is ridiculous and absurd.People may need to hear more
important concerns making a better life
for everyone like:good education,insurance,jobs etc...

Obama is correct in his response.

The media and others need to distance themselves from the Paris Hilton questions and focus on the question of the candidate's ability to lead and govern of all the people.

Only when we return to our nation's core premise of "We the People..." and not "we the blacks, whites, asians" or "we the big business or big labor" divisiveness will we begin to gain traction as a great nation once again.

I agree with Mr. Obama and the reporter. The mere asking of the question raises doubt and also perpetuates the belief and perception of inequality. Reporters certainly are not referring to the other candidates as white, or not white enough.
If we want to defeat racism, it has to be all sides involved. If whites refer to Mr. Obama as black they are considered racist. In like manner, if blacks refer to him as black or "not black enough" they too are exhibiting racism.
Let us just look at the man as a man, running for president, desiring to represent the United States of America in front of a world of nations and the human race.
He is not a black man, nor a white man, nor "not black enough" man. He is a man.

I think Obama missed the point himself by referring to it as "black America." There is no white or black, or chinese, russian, hungarian, polish, or any other prefix other than "the United States of " in front of "America." What makes America great is that everybody came here from different walks of life, different nations, different races; and we built one great nation together. For Obama or Hillary to really win this election, one of them needs to stand up and say "we are ONE AMERICA" and we must STAND TOGETHER." No more black and white.

His race is of no issue any more than Mitt Romney's religion should be an issue.

color is nothing, lives are important. he wants to send troops into pakistan. we saw what happened before we dont need it again. he uses his color and his uh uh uh after everyword as a cover for his scheme. he cant answer straight neither can hillary. his running buddy, and why not she has popularity and he wants it. High school drama. vote gravel

Just look in any anthropology textbook – race is a cultural/social misconception with no biological foundation. It is meaningless to treat someone differently when there is no difference at the core of their being.

As a fellow american and concerned citizen I follow closely what our presidential candidates have to say. I am the decendant of Revolutionary War veterans and of Danish lineage. Noone in the US would fit the white stereotype more than me. I can say without reservation that Mr. Obama is black enough for me; American enough for the world. Black or white, He gives me hope for a better America.

I am gleefully overjoyed with resurrected pride and restored figor, that candidate Obama has finally given his most unrestrained response to this weary metaphoric discussion of being "black enough. Whereas it is true that this question will always reside in the minds of all concerned, there must be a day of reckoning to this present global age, while not yet dismissing the the past overwhelming and incalculable masterfulness of being "black enough to assume the office of Commander- In – Chief of the United States Of America.

Obama's father was black, his mother white: That would make him as white as he is black, and as black as he is white. Does that make him anything enough, or do we insist that he fit a stereotype. Obama defies stereotypes, and good on him, because stereotypes are false. People who want to put Obama in a box are trying to say that he isn't a piece of us all. Can't we talk about policies, or are we doomed to talk about race, cleavage, haircuts, clothing, and other nonsense to keep the narrative as unintelligent as possible. Maybe we ought to ask him if he loved his father more than his mother, does he prefer chocolate or vanilla, or whether he wears boxers or briefs.

forget color!....can he, or Anyone, do the job?
bottom line: who will put this country back on track??? I don't care if E.T. flies down from space...if he can do it, then give it to HIM!
go Obama!

what does it really matter if he is black, it is about time that americans nearly 45 years after the 1960's civil rights movement finally forget about skin color. We should instead look at Obama as a candidate for office based upon his merits and achievements in office not whether or not america is ready for a black president. The question should be why are Americans still stuck on the color issue because no matter what, we need a leader who is committed to democracy and peace regardless of his skin color or personal attritbutes good or bad so for the sake of America forget the black/white issue and focus on what is really important. The sooner we begin listening and focusing on what he is saying rather than if his ethnicity warrants him acceptance to the white house the sooner we can begin hitting the hard questions and focusing on the major issues that will affect America and its citizens.

Just before logging onto HuffPo and reading this article and many of the comments that follow, I happened to see a rerun of Tim Russert's interview of Obama after the publication of his book "The Audacity of Hope". The interview was done during the period before Obama decided to run, but after the idea of his running had become an issue of national discussion. It was before people asked asinine questions like whether he was "black enough." In that interview, Barack Obama showed himself to be the most intelligent, articulate, thoughtful person, white, black or purple, to run for President in my political lifetime – and my first Presidential vote was for Adlai Stevenson in 1956. And he was no slouch.
To quote, or at least paraphrase, movie President Andrew Shepherd, "These are serious times with serious issues, that require serious people."
Everyone who understands how serious these times are should watch that interview. Obama's consultants should buy the time to put it on prime time television. These are serious times. Barack Obama is a serious person who thinks serious thoughts and has serious ideas. Black, white or purple, we seriously need him. Grow up. John Tucker,Virginia.

I really hope this puts the "issue" to rest once and for all. As a middle-aged Black American male, I am very thrilled that there is a realistic possibility that a Black man can be the president of the U.S.A. I think it is time to move to a higher plane of thought. Listen to what the man says, not how he looks. Then, we can decide whether he shares enough of the same views on enough of the important issues to vote him in. I mean this on the individual level, not as some sort of political bloc.

Obama is a thinking man. He finally solved the "puzzle" by articulating the issue in such a way as to not make his fellow black Americans feel bad about the answer. Well Done. That's the kind of person you want running the country – an actual thinking person who also wants to do the right thing. And, frankly, he doesn't seem that concerned about race one way or the other. How else can a black man in America get ahead? White people like him because he is truthful, intelligent, and seems wise beyond his years. But we also like him because he is really about the only black person NOT hung up on race one way or the other. Isn't that what we all say we really want - a color blind society? Then let's start walking the walk. Together.

Honesty in an answer from a politician...how refreshing! Perhaps we can all stop asking the wrong questions of all the candidates and simply ask, are they good enough?

it is a foolish question, He is an american, enough.

Obama is not black in the typical sense. Almost all American blacks were brought over here by force. Many weak ones died on the voyage, and many of the really strong ones, the ones who had too much independence and spirit, were lynched or even castrated. Thus, natural selection did not work in their favor. The rest of America's population tended to come here because they were looking for something and weren't afraid to leave home and travel the seas to an unfamiliar and even dangerous place. They were adventurers, dreamers and risk-takers. Obama's father was a man like that, who came here voluntarily to better his life. So in at least this sense, Obama is quintessentially American in a way many blacks actually are not. Not that blacks aren't American; of course they are and today they make a meaningful contribution to the country and to its identity; but they got here a different way and were selected for different qualities. To ask whether Obama is black enough because he has African blood is mixing apples and oranges. He's an American, end of story.

I may actually have to consider voting for Obama now. Black America is an unstoppable force... if only we will stop shooting our own! "Black enough" is only a cover for "Don't challenge me to give up my excuses."

Exactly right! I hope in the future he will not have to deal with this question again, as it is redicluous.

I think that is precisely it. We don't do enough to challenge ourselves and we hold fast to old notions–like that anyone who hasn't done something before can't do it. We need to be more philosophical in times like these. Obama will cause us to think more. Hillary Clinton will then prove that whatever we've found to be important through such introspection is what she is equipped to deliver.

What does this have to do with running a country?

Amen, Obama.

Obama's spot on! I personally wouldn't vote for him but his color has nothing to do with it. Leaders in the black community need to quit preaching and teaching the victim mentality and stop persecuting the leaders in their community who try and bridge the gap between the races.

yep. he nailed it as he has with so many other issue that require more than the the sound bite or PC answer. He is what the future should sound like.

He is well quaified for the job. I`m a 50 year old white man.

I think Mr. Obama is 100% correct in asking why Blacks mistrust Blacks in politics. As a native Mississippian, I've seen many people labeled and have been labeled myself as trying to be white because we refuse to settle for the status quo of being inferior to whites. It's the 21st century and still we have these backwards thoughts. Mr. Obama is Black enough! And I charge if the media would stop aking this insane question, then I promise it would go away. Godspeed Mr. Obama!

Obama is of mixed race but does that really matter. I feel like he would be a great president for all americans. White, Black, Hispanic, etc.

I am so glad that Obama answered this question in such an honest way. However, I feel that journalists are not speaking for blacks. Most black people (as in every black person I know) are elated that such an intelligent, articulate polished person such as Obama is running. I think that this notion that blacks disapprove of Obama is propaganda started by the right wing machine to cast a shadow on Obama. The question really isn't do blacks approve of Obama, WE DO! The question really is are white Americans ready for a black president who is QUALIFIED for the job as Obama CLEARLY is. Obama does us proud!

I think this is the most silly question ever. I get the same question from my friends who thinks i am acting white whenever i conjugate my verb.

Obama is right on this issue. Infact, i am going to vote for him come Jannuary.

I love Barack Obama. He is a leader.

I've always admired Hillary, but had decided that Edwards was going to get my vote. Edwards has a sincerity about him that is unmatched. I honestly believe that man will do whatever it takes to help the underprivileged of this country. Obama has never been a consideration. I truly do not understand all the fanfare surrounding him. I've listened closely to him with an open mind and there is just something that rings false. It's like he tells people what they want to hear, not what he believes – but what he BELIEVES they want to hear.

In an effort to fully understand Obama, I've paid closer attention to ALL the candidates... to discern how they are different and where they all agree on. I don't doubt Edwards sincerity at all, but I've changed my mind on my vote.

Hillary Clinton, thus far, has proven herself as the most competent candidate – Dem or Rep. I have no doubt that this woman has just enough compassion to help those that need it, and intelligence and fortitude to get this country on the right track.

I guess I should thank Obama for prompting me to pay closer attention. Without him I wouldn't have recognized how worthwhile a candidate Hillary Clinton is for President.

That's an interesting answer Senator Obama gave, but it did not answer the question.

It's not if Obama is black enough...it's more an issue if he's experienced enough. I think the fact that he's black speaks volumes about America as a country that overcame slavery...pushed for equal rights...and is now truly ready for a black president. Is it Obama? That's really the question here. I can't wait for a day that we say, as Americans, "Look at that man with the good heart and soul." rather than, "Look at that black man with the good heart and soul." We are all equal as humans...it's our cultural upbringing that makes us different.

I think Seantor Obama's response to the question was very appropriate!!! What does "black enough" mean anyway? I am glad that he is not in the same league as Jesse Jackson or Al Sharpton. I am black, and I think it is a ridiculous question!!! Senator Obama is as qualified as any of the other candidates and he should not be asked to justify anything except issues that affect ALL Americans regardless!!

The issue of Sen. Obama's shintone is irrelevant to whether or not he is fit to serve as president.

And I think it should left behind forever more. He's a man, no more, no less, and should be questioned about his position on issues.

I never really noticed he is black. I have always been more concerned with what he was saying.

Putting emphasis on race is just ignoring the larger issue. I think that what people really want to know is if he is in tune and aware of issues that affect black America. Black America should not be asking this question of just Obama but of all candidates. Focus on issues, not race. It is ignorant for anyone to side with someone running for President of the USA simply because of race.

Excellent response. An answer seems to fall in self-hate and shame. The same reason many women are quick to insist they're against Sen. Clinton and would never lean towards voting for a woman. As much as under-represented groups get angry for being under-represented, they so often accept the comfort of that powerlessness and disempower those like them who strive for something more.

He hit the nail right on the head. The Presidency shouldn't be about, what the color of your skin is, or if you are male or female, but about if you can get the job done.

I think that the reason that the blackness aspect of his campaign keeps coming up is due to the fear of the majority. Think about it. Having a leader coming from a minority group would lead many to believe that he will tend to that minority and downgrade attention of the majority (the whites). Although that might not be true, this is the thought process. the question, "Is America ready for a black President?" is just really trying to ask whether the majority is ready to have a shift in power where the minorities might see some more advantages. So it has nothing to do with race but the tension between the majority and minority classes. Now for the question "Is he black enough?" that is a ridiculous question. To ask that question there must be a proper definition of black. Does that mean is he attuned to the needs of the black community? Does it mean that he doesn't speak with a proper tone or emotion? So when he is asked this question, especially by the black community, it is very stupid and ignorant. Blackness should not be treated like an issue but simply as a part of who Obama is.

I know very little right now about Barack Obama and his platforms and where he stands on many issues. I will in time, as I always do, "Catch-Up" with that part of things. BUt for now I can deftly say that I know the man is Black.
I can also say that I know his "blackness" has been questioned. I guess he must be right about the media. It seems they are more occupied with stirring the pot of racial issues to see what boils over. Maybe thay are working for someone. Who knows. All media outlets are owned by white men who own too many other things for their connection to the news not to be tainted.
Barack Obama seems like a nice man. Too bad he's not black enough.

I will vote for Obama, but I am left with the sad feeling that he is another John or Robert Kennedy. It is not without reason that he travels with federal security so early in the election process.

I will vote for Mr. Obama not for the color of his skin but for the content of his character!!!! Racism and the stupidity that surrounds it will always exist. Let's focus on what really matters people and stop acting as if we don't know any better.

Thank goodness. Great article Mr. Martin. I could not agree more. You don't have to wear baggy pants and like rap to be "black enough". Its a positive step in moving forward as a country on a ridiculous question. Obama is simply a wonderful candidate that I hope wins the nomination.

I think raising the question about Barack Obama's blackness is very important, because he is not a part of the historic civil right's movement. He has not been a part of the struggle that black people born in the continental United States have been through. Secondly, I think his experience in politics is limited. Yes he's bright and attractive looking candidate. He's candidate that white america can feel comfortable with. To me that doesn't bode well for african americans. Any black man that makes white folks feel comfortable is "BAD" for black america. I just don't think he will be good for us.

Way to go senator "O" those nasayars need to get over them selves let us move foward as one nation under God.Standing as a team regardless of Race , Gender, etc.

People say if you don't love this country, you should leave it. I think the real answer is, if you don't love something about this country, then you should fix it.

Drop the race issue. The only reason why I am debating whether to give my vote to Obama or not is that I worry about his experience and his stand on foreign policy, not his color. W is white and I didn't vote for him either time!!!!

If the only thing of worth we have to ask the man is whether or not he is "black enough" then we have a serious problem as a nation- because whoever gets into office has to deal with some serious international issues as well as problematic domestic issues and has to consider all of the people of the United States as the people he represents-and we come as a nation of diverse beliefs, nationalities and orientations-so he better be black enough, white enough, hispanic enough and more

Obama is right. It is his integrity that counts. Color , racism, prejudice- none counts if the candidate is honorable.

Obama is a terrific man and after meeting him my assumptions that he would be a great President not only were sincere but they were even greater than I imagined. He answers every question- personal or political without a flaw. He's intelligent, articulate and down to earth. Let's focus on his credentials, not his color. OBAMA-OH-EIGHT-OH-YEAH!

The other day I talked to a group of friends here in Miami where most folks are neither white or black if you would, I think the issue at hand has nothing to do with color or background. Heck I could vote for Mr. Richardson for being Latino but I am not. Obama is the real deal, He is a refreshing image to see and a new leadership that we have not seen since John F Kennedy. I am inspired by his dedication to us the people and not the lobbyist or the big corps that run the politics.

Race does matter. It will always matter.

I have said for several years that a black man running for President can't get elected. To win, he has to be a qualifed man who happens to be black. As long as race is an issue, his support among whites will be suspect. I am a lifelong Republican, but I could vote for a man who happens to be black, not a black man.

The question was, "What gives Obama hope that America is ready for a black president?" And he answered another question, rhetorically: Why there exists this mistrust in black America of a black man like Obama running for office? Well, I've got another question: What's the evidence that there is such mistrust? Maybe he's annoyed that polls suggest that many blacks still prefer Hillary. I'm not sure that's enough to warrant making a big deal out of where black voter preferences are on racial grounds. After all, there are good reasons to support Hillary. It may be an indication of the maturity of black voters that he's not getting 90% of the black vote. And that in turn may mean that for him to raise the issue in racial terms is a sign of political immaturity.

I am a white male with a Masters degree. I have only recently switched to the Democrats after a lifetime in the Republican Party. Barack Obama deftly answered a tough, albeit totally ridiculous, question about a subject many find of great concern. I do not and I feel he has answered this foolish question once and for all.

With that in mind. When will Barack answer this question with a strong reference to his white mother? Barack is not black or white, he is biracial. Any comment on race should include his complete history, not just his supposed "blackness".

Skin color never has had anything to do with qualifications and ability, no matter what the occupation. Black America as usual is the main culprit in this vivisection of a fresh and viable presidential candidate, hurting our own cause yet once again. Way to go!

I cried when I heard Obama speak during Kerry's convention, because he was so right, there are no blue or red states, we're all The UNITED STATES. I crave simple truths, even if they hurt. I want to sacrifice to make the world better and to unsure that my children's children still live in a free country. I don't want the country I love to be known as an imperial empire, a dictatorial regime bringing democracy on the backs of missles and bullets.

I want the world to know the good people I know. I want the sort of knowledge, class and courage that the best politicians in history have given this country. It's time for another Abe Lincoln, another JFK, because only a leader that can harness the belief currently lying dormant in this country can pull us safely into the future. I never, ever want to be known as the generation that lost our freedoms to fear and lost our world to neglect and greed. Hilary can't inspire that. She just can't.

The worst thing that can happen to the next presidential election is that it’s close. If it’s close, the Republicans can use caging, intimidation and voter apathy to steal it yet again. If it’s Hilary, it’s gonna be close, and I’m scared.

I do, however, believe that Barrack Obama can inspire what needs to be done. He can not only inspire it, he can pull it off. He can do it. He can bring a million people to the polls that have never even bothered to vote before. They may steal 100,000 votes, but can they stop the other 900,000?

Give him a chance. He and Edwards together would make a great ticket. The Clintons had their chance, lets not live in the past, lets figure out what will make the future.

Obama/Edwards in '08.

Although I prefer Clinton over Obama, I am deeply proud of what Barack stated. This whole issue of race has been ludicrous, and I'm glad that he finally stepped up and shut up all the racists, black and white.

Biologically obama appears 1/2 black & 1/2 White.He has the luxury to choose either. So in reality,Obama is neither black nor white.He is a blend of many races and cultures and a real symbol of what the new america is.

I think Mr. Johnson who posted a comment on 8/10/07 hit it on the head. Color is not the issue, it's whether the individual represents the people as the whole, not as a potion thereof. I am a white person as well and the ethnicity of any person, candidate or otherwise, should not be directing force for our nation, let alone the world. Mr. Obama will have to prove himself with substance before our nation's people. Thus far, he far exceeds that criteria.

I totally agree! Obama being black is not even an issue! People are just scared to trust him only because black people are viewed as violent and causing crime. It would be the same as asking if America is ready for a woman to be president. Are we?

I agree with Obama. He is running as Barrack Obama on issues that affect all Americans, not on his skin color. I think the same should be asked why Mitt Romney repeatedly has to answer questions about his religion. They both are trying to run as themselves on real, substantive issues, and not as representatives of a group to which they happen to belong.

It doesn't matter if he is black.
I think he is a good man with good ideas. Better than what we have.
I have always observed, black, brown, white, yellow, if in politics, they all say one thing during the flirting period and once they get in office, its business as usual. I hope when he gets in office its not business as usual.

I love how when the "Obama isn't black enough" spin starts to erode, cynics like to run back to the experience factor...as if these old croonies can or will do any better, out with the old, in with the new! Experience doesn't mean a thing when judgement is poor.

He is neither black nor white. He has both black and white genes. Amongst whites, we may say someone is of
"Italian and Irish heritage" or "German and Hungarian". meaning that person has some of both heritages. Obama has both,thus he can identify with both. But please, lets remember MLK who said forget skin color and focus on content of character. Vote for his positions on issues not his color.

Dr. Obama hit the nail on the head. Likeise, know that when anyone says "Black America" which "Black America" are they talking about? Do you honestly think all Black Americans have an identical world view, self-inventory and cultural position that makes for a kind of bizarre social monolith? Ooof. It's far easier to speak or write about "Black America" than an Afro-American...Easy throws power around but it's real hollow and real old. All this "Black Voice" is so much press lingo and fodder. Are Black millionaires and billionaires "Black enough"? Are they part of the "Black Voice"? Like there's a "White Voice" or a "Jewish Voice"...It's a lot of the Wizard of Oz...

Obama is black enough, white enough, and smart enough. A fine American and a fine candidate. But is he experienced enough? His recent pronouncments make that a very dubious proposition.

Race or skin color should never be an issue in our everyday lives, more so in the Presidential Race. Whoever draws that distinction is still living in the dark ages. They obviuosly are the ones who like that line drawn to be there, and only succeed in dividing us further rather than uniting us with one goal. We are a nation created by immigrants with one common belief. Democracy, freedom and equality. Let's keep the platform on track and concern ourselves with the real issues that matter.

It is not his color.....after all Colin Powell has been widely accepted and in fact considered by some as a presidential candidate.....it is his inexperience.

Senator Obama is an intelligent and well-rounded man the likes of whom America has not seen in a long time. If he has confounded everyone, it is because he is unique. He is antitheticacal to a system where most so-called Black leaders(Civil rights era) perpetuate African American victimhood only to feed of it. Obama is saying enough already...the politics of race or victimhood is over. All he sees today is one America with equal opportunity for all. Move on, it is a different era. What an amazing guy. I have played the Q&A with NABJ six times but still can't get enough of it. Power to the Senator. Peter M

I think Obama hit the nail on the head. I am a white, senior citizen, female, and remember quite well the prejudice of the past. IF I can envision a black man as President, why in the heavens name can't a black person have confidence in that? I just can't believe we would throw away the opportunity to put such a good decent man with such outstanding qualifications in the White House just because of the color of his skin. Shame on us if we do, but the pity is that it would be such a loss for the country!!!
We need Barack Obama as our President.
Joanne Urish, Go/Barack/Go Obama/in the Heart

OBAMA FOR PRESIDENT!!
Race: Human Race
Citizenship: American (USA)

The people hung up on color are the ones keeping us back from everything Dr. King and every other civil rights person has tried, is trying and will try to do in the USA. It is all about the HUMAN RACE. It is about what's best for us as a people. To do this is to choose the right person to represent us based on the person's qualifications, views and political positions.

Its not a question of being "Black" enough – its a question of does he have the experience – and the answer is no.

As far as I am concerned Obama is the poster child of this election because this is the first time (in my 24 years of life) that I believe an African American presidential candidate is convinced and convicted that he actually has a remote chance to win. It doesn't matter whether he is "black enough" or not, the point is he is black and this country will prove if they are ready for a black president in the ensuing months.Just ask yourself if you are ready- I am.

I think judging somebody by there skin color alone is nothing more than shear stupidity. If people really want equal rights they ought to quit segregating themselves. I see nothing different about somebody based on the shade of their skin, I look at their actions and how they treat other people. After working in a primarily black neighborhood for almost two years and living in a primarily white neighborhood, I got treated worse in the black area when I dressed up for work (dress shirt, tie, slacks), but if I dressed in baggy cloths and looked like I didn't have allot of money I was treated the same as I would be by other white people in the same class. Poor white people look down on well off looking white people just as much as black people do. I don't think the problem we have today is as much a race issue as it once was, I think it is more of a social class issue.

NOW HEAR THIS
THIS BLACK WOMEN... AGE 52.... NEVER MISS A TIME TO VOTE.....I WISH THIS WAS NOV08 AND NOT AUG07....WE CAN END ALL THIS TALK AND GO VOTE
I WILL VOTE FOR....SEN. BARACK OBAMA

I am a white Anglo-Saxon male, and when Barack Obama gets the Democratic nomination for president, he has my vote! Why? He is intelligent, a great speaker, a good and decent man who I know will make the right tough decisions. It is time to turn the page.

I think Obama nailed it. The question of blackness is plain stupidity.

Thank you for showing how absurd this whole debate is. I cannot believe we ask whether the county is ready for a black president instead of real questions about policies. I hope that for the vast majority of americans, the issue of race will not be in their mind on voting day, and that they will instead be choosing the man or woman who they believe can best lead the country.

I think his answer was not a political answer, but an honest and insightful answer.

As a 63-year old Southern white woman, I assure you that color is not an issue for Obama. I agree that when a black man does well he may be viewed as "uppity" or trying to act non-black by members of his own race. When will we get it? Intelligence, motivation, ambition, and commitment are NOT race specific. Obama is just another example of that. As my grandchildren would say, "Get off of him!"

I've heard many in the Black community say they won't support Obama, even though they think he's the best candidate, because, "they'll never elect a black president." A defeatist attitude to say the least. I say, vote for him anyway. Don't pay any attention to what "they" say. Vote for him. And then sit back and watch an amazing thing happen.

Good for Obama. Many times its blacks who want to make everything a racial issue. Give the man a break.

You're exactly right, Obama nailed the answer to this ridiculous question. It is severely disheartening to watch people of all race, gender, and cultural background pick apart a candidate's personality or appearance. America seems to constantly miss the main point of picking a candidate of President: qualification and ability to do the job effectively. In case I'm horribly mistaken, race has nothing to do with that.

The issue with Obama is not whether he is black enough but it is obvious that he lacks experience and there is a real question as to whether his advisors are competent and if he were elected, whether he would appoint competent individuals to government positions.

I don't understand why whether a person is being "black enough" should ever come up, in any kind of conversation, ever. This is a ridiculous conversation!

In any other country in the world making such a big deal of his "blackness" would be considered racist. He is a human being. His skin color shouldn't make any difference. Grow up already Americans and join the rest of the civilized world.

I think it was either Coach Dungy (Indy Colts) or Coach Smith (Chicago Bears) who said that it was an honor to be the first black coach to win a Superbowl, but he believed that we will only truly conquer racism when that doesn't even become a story or a talking point.

I'm of mixed race, and I support Obama not because he's black, but because he seems like the smartest candidate and the least likely to polarize this nation. As much as I respect Hillary Clinton, I see her as a polarizing figure, and separation is not something this country needs right now.

I don't understand why there is not an outcry at the question, "Are you black enough?" being asked in the first place.

It is, asked of a black or white candidate, at its very heart and core, a racist , anti-white, prejudiced and prejudicial question. If the questioner if asked, stated their motivation to ask such a question was not to stir up racial bias and prejudices, the person is a liar.

Great guy, with great ideas. Had great answers for the press. And I agree, just because you appeal to white America, you are not a sell out, you have crossed color lines. Mistrust of black men in America is to common place. We are portrayed as criminals, thieves, rapists and murders. They never high light black men in important positions and due to these facts, when we are encountered by others from different ethnicities they are immediately suspicious.

Exactly! Once again, he proves what a bright and thoughtful guy he is. I am a white woman and I am a supporter of Senator Obama because he seems to be so comfortable with who he is and likes himself. His message at the Democratic Convention in 2004 sold me and it wasn't so much what he said, although that was part of it but how he said it.

Why is Obama's "race" a legitimate issue? As a nation it would appear we are not beyond that point yet. And why does the media consistently classify him as "black"? Is it not equally true that his mother was white, so should he not be considered of "mixed race" or "half-black"? Granted, he has dark complexion, but he was raised moreso by his mother, so he should, at the very least, be considered half-white, or half-black, if you will. But he is not "black." (Is Jennifer Tilly Chinese?) But the media always calls him black. The media is making race and racial identity (if there is such a thing) an issue. Race should not matter at all. I really have no interest in his race. If Obama should win, it should be because he is deemed the best qualified, and has the best policies or ideas, etc., not becuase there is some abstract desire to see him become the "first" "black" president. Should Sen. Clinton win because she should become the first woman president? Should we have voted for Gore-Lieberman to see the first Jewish vice-president? I do take issue with Obama because, to my knowledge I have never heard him say that he should not be exclusively labeled "black". To the contrary, it appears he is cynically using this issue to his advantage and, in fact, actively encourages participation in this matter of whether he is "black enough." Why? The whole issue is improper. I believe this issue fosters division, not unity. He would have more integrity if he were to disavow the race issue. His perpetuating the continuing classification of himself as "black" is disengenuous and ultimately futile. Let's focus on the issues he would face as president.

I agree with Deb, Chicago, IL.
I am the mother(white) of a bi-racial son and was very excited to have Barack as a role model. I was disappointed when I found out he seems to only identify as being black. My son seems to have a good grasp as to who he is and so far does not feel the need to "pick a side" thank goodness. I have always felt I would have failed him if he needed to do this. So why does Barack not say he is bi-racial? Will it not get as many votes? I thought he would relate to even more people???

The thing that bothers me most is that some people think a black politician should "toe the racial line". A couple of generations of black leaders have made hay by encouraging racial strife. Most Democrats pander to special interests to win votes and are probably as racist as anyone. I will vote for a black when I can feel sure that he is an American and not an African American. Color of one's skin is not as important as their values and integrity. Race relations should have gotten better since the 50's but in my humble opinion they are worse than they have been in my lifetime and I was born in 1943. I hope to live long enough to see the time when race is a nonfactor in everything from hiring to college admission to being president. Guess I will have to live quite a while longer.

I'm white, fence-rider politically, and am extremely impressed by Mr. Obama. As many readers have expressed, enough with the color filters. Mr. Obama is articulate, intelligent, and in contrast to his more "experienced" political adversaries, from all appearances is not tainted by power groups and the normal political mire that politicians eventually become mired in Washington. We need a bridge between our respective cultures in our American community. Mr. Obama represents a bridge to a new and more integrated America and I'm ready for it.

Semper Fi to Mr. Obama . . . . you have my vote, Sir.

It's quite funny that a lot of people who really want to vote for him don't, and instead hide their fears in questioning his race. Obama has the nerve to stand up as a candidate, people should have the nerve to vote for him

Is he black enough? Why not ask if he is white enough? Is he man enough? Oops,sorry Hillary, that is gender insensitive. Is he smart enough? Oops, sorry George, that is intellectually biased. OK...is he wise enough? That is the essence of the argument. Personally, I'd like to see a bit more time to grow. Let's see if he can stay isolated from special interest groups in DC for another term.

The question of color misses the point in such a major way. What I want to know is whether any one candidate has the integrity, vision, leadership, and self-possessed presence to reignite the spirit of this country and to help reshape and rebalance factors that will contribute to the long-term sustainability of a decent standard of living for the majority of U.S. citizens. Good luck with that.

Absolutely correct. The fact that Mr. Obama can precisely articulate the fundamental issue here is a testament to his potential as President of the United States.

I think that the only reason the black vote is split between Obama and Clinton is not that black people "don't think he's black enough" but that they don't think he has a chance to win. So rather than waste their vote on someone they don't think can win and possibly help the Republicans, they'd rather vote for Hillary who they think has a better chance to win.

it's sad that people of his own color doesn't reconize him as an educated american running for office. i think what it is, is that Mr. Obama is half white and half black. the citizens do not hear of him talking much of his white side of the family, he's got to show america both sides, he's got to look into himself and ask, "why am i just showing the black side when i am of bi-racial hertiage?" i think he would be accepted then, right now the people distrust him because he claims one color of nationality. I personally like the man for what he stands for with his agenda.

People need to wake up and forget the "is he black enough" quote. Black enough to do what? I am Black and the different shade of Black has plagued "us" way to long...Let it go...

Barak Obama has about as much chance to be elected President as a man in the moon. Jesse Jackson tried it a couple of times. If the Democrats really want to elect a black President then why don't they just say it.

I believe that Obama is the straightest shooting, most intelligent political candidate of any sort to come about in recent history. He and his approaches to issues are fresh and new and it's what this country needs. We've become accustomed to a lack of governmental transparency and an abundance of deception with this administration and that is what breeds the mistrust Obama speaks of. As far as his blackness: GET OVER IT! It's childish to even bring a candidate's race into question, especially since this is a country that boasts of unquestioned equality and the prospect of attaining the "American Dream." Lets step back and take in the big picture: I'm a young Caucasian male and I say many of the old white guys who have previously, or are currently running the country have done a piss poor job of it. I think having a black president might just be what this country needs in order to break the cycle and the monotony that is the political demographic. THANK YOU OBAMA!

Don't blame the black community. Look at what the kind of jokers they've had to put up with for leaders. The likes of Jesse Jackson and Al Sharpton claim to represent black community. Given that, it will take some time to get used to an eloquent, intelligent leader with a real shot at presidency. It just seems too good to be true.

Hello,

I think senator Barack's response was very to-the-point. For me, a 7th generation American, he is what we all are, a mix of different cultures and races. The point is whether he is a good decision maker, leader, orator, and motivator for the American People. I think he is and he is going to get my vote whether he is "black enough" or not.

The issue is that the issue of color should not matter, it should not be asked!! If you want to go into a persons heritage, fine. Obama is part American and part Kenyan, but really if he was mostly raised in America, then you become AMERICANIZED, I bet it's hard to go back anywhere after you become AMERICANIZED!

It's ridiculous and petty to keep asking Barack whether he is black "enough". Last time I checked neither Hillary nor Edward were black "at all". If we don't trust Barack because he is so called not black "enough" to "fully" understand the black experience, why should trust Hillary or J. Edwards who are not black "at all" to even understand that experience a "bit". I agree with Barack here, the larger issue is that those blacks, who ask that irrelevant and pointless question, don't trust blacks "enough".

I think only a reporter would ask such a question. Only a black reporter at that. If a black runs for office, any office, he or she is black enough for the black vote. Once voted in, he or she, will be voted back in regardless of performance. Drug dealing, organized crime, pumping out babies with unwed mothers. None of those things are crimes, they are simply part of black culture. Trust me, he is black enough.

The media still tries to race-bait. We should listen less to the media and more to each other.

The quality, integrity and passion of the comments on this blog give me hope for the political process in America.

It is becoming so blatantly obvious how inspiring Barrack Obama is to this process. I am excited about politics in a way I have NEVER been...

I have never been politically involved before, and literally every one else I know supporting Obama's campaign has not either. He is single handedly re making the political landscape and inspiring the debate, thinking and change that we desperately need in politics. For once, I don't feel I'm being led by the hand along a rosy path created for me by the media. I feel like WE the people are leading the media, leading the way. I'm proud.

It makes me think more of what I already suspected the first time I heard Obama speak in 2004, that maybe our country has a future after all.

If those using the term "not black enough" in reference to Obama thinks he is otherwise qualified to be president, but will not vote for him because he is "not black enough" should take this simple test. Just complete the sentence:

"Barack is not black enough for me so I'm going to vote for . . ."

I'm liking this guy more & more. I may vote for him. It's not about how black he is or isn't. I just think he's a sharp thinker & pretty direct. I like his stand on the issues and the fact that is youthful. It's time for a change from the same old middle-age conservative suits we always elect.
(PS I'm a 50 yr old white woman)

good for him! it shouldn't matter, color. it's content.

Voters should close their eyes and use their ears when deciding who their next president should be. Listen to what the candidates have to say. Process their views on the issues then decide who's best to lead this great nation in the right direction.

Jimi Hendrix played guitar to mostly white audiences. Why? Who cares? He was an excellent performer, and wrote great music. Barack Obama is a charismatic person, with great ideas. It's a shame to see our nation dwelling on someone's skin color, and not the content of their person.

The truth is that with his cultural well-roundedness Obama represents the vast majority of Americans. Also, with his political savvy, quick wit and diplomatic speaking ability, he is a great leader. For years we have been saying two things repeatedly. One is "America needs a uniter." The other is, "America needs another strong black leader." We have found him in Barak Obama.

I think it is terribly unfortunate in this day and age that the subject of race and gender overshadow the credentials and qualifications of a legitimate presidential candidate. I never cease to be amazed by the ignorance and stupidity of some of my fellow American citizens. Wake up! We have much more important issues before us of life, death, corruption, greed and an American dictatorship that is eroding our constitutional freedoms everyday.

I don't care about anyone's race, but I am curious as to why Obama doesn't identify with being bi-racial. If he is half black and half white, why doesn't he claim both? Is he ashamed of his "whiteness"???

I am continuously impressed by Senator Obama. I am a white conservative from the south. He is the only Democrat who is presently running who I would support. I think his election would be great for our country both nationally and internationally. He is bright, shows common sense, and would surround himself with a quality cabinet and advisors.

After reading Obama's The Audacity of Hope, I am convinced this guy is a god's gift to us at this moment of change. His intelligence, deep understanding of issues, and perspectives suited for this century would make him a good president. If the American public read what he says instead of what the media reports with distortion what he says, he would be our next president.

Barack definetly nailed it. Why is it even a question of his 'blackness'? It should be a question of his plan going forward for America.

Barack is America in the flesh! The melting pot of America? It does not get any better than this!

i feel Barack Obama's "blackness" should not be an issue. The only issue at hand here is if he would make a good president despite his race.

8-11-07. Obama is right! What makes people think that a black person is different, at the level of his intelligence, he is no different, both black and white and brown candidates/presidents get over their head when dealing with the power obtained in reaching as high an office as the top....President of the United States... It all depends on where they go with it!(Power).

I think we are all missing the point and will continue to by wasting time on nonissues like a person's race or gender. Let's examine the real issues that will effect their decisions and compare their skills.

I don't care what color he is. I prefer that statement. Color is not ment to be in conflict of other color or of itself.

I do care that who I vote for understands color doesn't matter. The way a person handles daily life and addresses the issues in a skillful way that would truly make sense and advance america economically and strengthen Security.

Obviously, "black enough" was not an issue when a young, middled-aged (40) mother of two, white woman from Southern Illiois (me) voted a black man (Sen. Obama) to represent her in her state as her state Senator in Congress!

Comments, even in this forum, have been made that the the Midwest is not educated or receptive enough to be ready for a black president. Exactly WHO elected a very smart black man as their Senator in Illinois for everyone else now to witness his intellect as their potential future president?? A state that is 73.5% white and 15.1% black according to the 2000 Census – Illinois, a MIDWESTERN STATE.

Senator Obama relates to the average person – any skin color. We are lucky in Illinois.

What??!

The question was "What gives Obama hope that America is ready for a black president?"

Strange, why did't Mr. Martin (the writer) follow up with this question??

Why is this question (and similar versions) always dodged and instead turned into an attempt to blame African Americans for dragging down a Black candidate. No matter what diversions are put in the way, a Black candidate's quest for high office (e.g., Tom Bradley) comes down to is the majority in this country ready!

As a black man I think this is exactly why we fall short in our own community. We never accept that a black anything will work until someone has the courage to step forward and say I your "man" not just a black man.
Obama is the American dream for all black men or at least he should be and that question should be thrown out just like the "N" word.

As a young voter, it always surprises me when people bring up race. I thought (or at least hoped) we were past that. It seems prejudice is still present, even in politics. If we're going to build a better future, we shouldn't continue to cling to outdated ideas. Race is nothing compared to the problems we ALL face every day. If someone is a good leader, that should be all that matters.

I was fortunate enough to hear Senator Obama speak in March. Obama being black never crossed my mind. He spoke as a father and as an american and had my full attention.
I think black and white is a non-issue especially with whites. Stepping back and saying look what a black man is doing is an insult to that black man. Step back and say look what that man is doing and the whole black-white thing will die the death it deserves.

The question in our hearts when voting for a leader for our nation should not be about color or sex. We should be above these things, see past the obvious, and concentrate only on their ability to be a wise leader for this great country. I would never vote for a candidate just because they are my color or my sex. This does not impress me in the slightest. I am impressed by what a candidate stands for only.

I am a WASP from Mississippi. Our state has more black elected officials than any other state in the USA. A black candidate just beat a long time incumbent in the state primary for insurance commissioner. Not one time was race ever brought up during the election. The changes I have witnessed in my 67 years are amazing. I know some people still consider Missisippi a racist state, but I have visited the sections and found more raccism in many northern areas than we have here. My point, If people in Mississippi do not consider race, but vote for the best qualified candidate, surely the rest of the nation can follow our example. Some Black people still carry a complex about themselves and see themselves as inferior moreso than people of other races. Until they believe there are actually people who can represent all races equally, race will be an issue. Let the man be a human being and an American, not a pawn for one particular group.

It's about time he said it. I'm a black male and it's way past the time of trying to prove yourself just to be accepted in the black community. I'm educated and raise my kids. I live my life right and I don't hurt anyone. I'm not proving myself to anyone, regardless of race. As far as I'm concerned, God is the only one I have anything to prove anything to. Everyone else can either accept me or not.

Ay, twinkiecowboy, as an Afican-American, I think you gave the most honest answer to what the question means and that is why Obama answered this question perfectly. That's exactly how I felt.

He didn't seem to answer the question.
This is what the article said, "But then Pitts asked that last question: What gives Obama hope that America is ready for a black president?" He then put back onto the journalists why he's asked if he's "black enough." But that didn't answer the question. The answer to that question should have addressed whether or not a black person can be elected, and I didn't read his response answering that specific question. Maybe it's just me. The writer of this story wrote that Obama answered the question that he (Obama) thinks is the heart of the matter. Well, I think it's 2 different issues. Will America, which is predominately non-black and still very racist elect a black person President is one question. Will Obama appear to be "black enough" to many disenfranchised black voters is another question, and the one that I think is unfair. The actual question he was asked, however, is a fair and logical question. For the record, I like Obama, and would probably vote for him over several opponents, but not all of them...including those within his own party.

The whole concept of blackness playing a role in the issues this country faces is completely ludicrous. The fact that the media is trying to sensationalize the non-standard players in the Democratic game, be it black, female or any other type of person, is disappointing and belies the desperate need to stick to the issues that are real for people. Leave it alone already!

Until America is ready to stop being perceived as "white," this rhetorical question will be asked. Instead of "sticking out like a sore thumb..." Prof. Obama should perceive himself as displaying a "badge of courage and honor," and walk his journey with respect to that notion. Upon doing so, the "hope," of his presidency will not be realized by this country, by "his," people or those who cannot visualize his place in the Oval office.

I'm a white woman and I can't wait to vote for Senator Obama. I am even praying he wins the Presidential election! This country needs someone with his views and attitude. Some of us truly don't care about race or religion and wish the media would stop bringing it up! Will Senator Hillary Clinton win based upon the fact that she has the "womens vote?" She doesn't have my families vote or any woman I know. Way to go Senator Obama! Keep up the great work!

Is it a big surprise that people of any and every background would be subject to the same shortcomings and prejudices as everyone else? Is is a big surprise that people of any and every background would posses the same gifts and genius as everyone else?

The USA for too long has ignored the abilities, gifts, and genius that ALL groups can bring to the service of our nation. Certainly now, more than at any recent time, our need for accessing the best should not be limited by the bigotry of the past - whoever may have held it.

I hope that this country can turn away such frivolous conversations and bury them with Paris Hilton news. It really is past time to grow up, leaving behind the things we never should have had or done as a nation.

I think Obama's response is, once again, a testament to his perception and intelligence. He asks the kind of deeper questions we need to ask ourselves about how we all self create an "glass ceiling" of expectation.
Go OBAMa

Judith Mowry

Why is his skin color important? This is not 1865 or 1965. It is 2007, the 'war' is over, so get over it. The nation is integrated, and yes there is still some bigotry, but we are so much better off than we once were! Give me a break. I'm so sick of hearing passionate skin color arguments. What I am not hearing at all is any passionate suggestion of solutions to this country's true issues and problems – HEALTH CARE (my god we have a pathetic system), EDUCATION (our kids can't read, write, or do math, but they can sure learn to protect themselves from violence on the school campus), ILLEGAL IMMIGRATION (operative word: ILLEGAL – so who is fixing it?), SUSTAINING TECHNOLOGY JOBS (we continue to move them out of this country), ALTERNATIVE SOURCES OF ENERGY (something other than Middle East oil, for god's sake). We don't have time to talk about skin color and is it white enough or black enough – let's start talking REAL for the sake of this country. Let's get on with it.

Let me tell you, I am a white, registered Republican wife and mother from Omaha, NE and I don't give a rip what color skin Obama has. He is a charismatic, intelligent, well-educated patriot that would have my vote if the election were today. I think that if there is anything that throws people off about Obama, it is that he isn't a polished politician. I'm sick and tired of the "slick willies" that have been running our country. Obama is the thinking American's choice.

Obama nailed it on the head. A viable Presidential candidate must connect to voters across the spectrum in our country. No one can win without appeal across racial, economic and cultural lines.

Is it just possible that Obama can be considered a serious Presidential prospect who also "happens to be black", not just a "black Presidential prospect?" One should not be defined by his race.

I believe, as a white voter, it does say something about the changes in America that so many appear willing to judge Obama on the content of his intellect and heart, not just skin color. The degree and depth of his support remains to be determined, but he has my support.

Obama gave an appropriate response. But I think those who would ask that question ought themselves be asked "Is Hilary black enough?" Indeed, are any of the other candidates "black enough?" The question is a silly one. The test for all and any candidate ought to be who would best serve this country on the myriad important issues of the day.

The question is annoying and stupid because it presumes that blackness entails conforming to a particular manner of speech and dress. It's fine if someone is identifiably black by their voice–but also if they're not. I grew up in Texas and am constantly annoyed by people who say I don't "sound like I'm from Texas." Some people have a dialect that instantly reflects their group membership, and some don't. Obama doesn't sound obviously African American when he speaks, but that doesn't make him less black any more than it makes me less Texan that I don't sound like Lyndon Johnson did.

This can be said for any ethnic minority that assimilates into mainstream American culture. I am a successful mexican-american serving in our nation's defense and have been numbed by the constant accusations of "sell-out", "too good for his own people" and "he thinks he's better than us"...by family, friends and strangers! Since I don't want my children to have to live with that I I make it very simple for them; when they ask their identity I proudly tell them they are American! I feel for Barrack yet know that there are millions more that have to endure that same kind of questioning each and every day.

What difference does it make if a candidate is black, white, purple or pink. I want a president who will refuse to put himself and his cabinet above the law, who will be honest, fair and use his brain for something besides a hatrack. If that is Obama or Edwards or Guiliani or Romney I don't care. I want an honest president for a change. I'm tired of being lied to.

Obama is running his campaign on being black; therefore, it is legitimate for questioning him on his skin color. I also believe he does not speak for all black Americans, so it would be insulting for him to blame his problems on others because they have the same skin color. To say there is a mistrust in black America in misleading because who’s to say the majority of voters a bigots to the individual?

Senator Obama has really adjudicated the various motifs no race and culture. To emancipate his thoughts is quite lovely.

Color should be ignored all the time. Everyone should concentrate on discerning issues that are relevant to public (NOT SELFISH) interest.

The question is going to continue to be asked...there are many layers to this question. Thus far his campaign and his comments are more about him and less about how his experiences influenced how he relates to and sees others. The country may be ready and he may not be. When the question is asked again, he may want to ask for more information about why it is being asked. One answer will not make this "go away", a dialog about "why is it relevant?" or "what experiences do you want to hear more about?" will add dimension to this tired back and forth.

As an Obama supporter I have often thought that complaints about his "arrogance", and "ambition" are also due to his racial reality. Surely in a white person these would be viewed as "confidence" a quality admirable in a leader and what politician running for president doesn't have ambition. How could someone ith low self esteem be a president?? I believe that him running may provoke some self evaluation of the root causes of some people's criticism: a deep seated prejudice.

Skepticism raises its head when a critical thinking or compassionate or pro-active person speaks out and works towards making changes. Too many people of ALL ethnicities in America are too comfortable in their slow lane, and regard anyone who acts differently with suspicion, and that's a reality that cuts across all classes.

Is Senator Obama rational enough, is he inclusive enough, is he able to look at the whole and hear the plus AND the negative, instead of listening for what he wants to hear and then counting on a spin to make the rest of the country believe what he's saying? Is he mature enough to admit his mistakes, rectify them and then move past them on a positive tip? Does he want to hear from real Americans living the ups and downs of life, or just the selected syncophants who will help him search for ways to justify his actions? Can he handle the truth?

I have been an American woman of Native and African ancestry all my life, and our country still trips over race in the 21st century as it did in the 20th century. Yes, there are people who still don't believe that a black person can be an intelligent and capable person, let alone a leader. But now the neglect of our nation is catching up to us, and we need leaders who can work with other leaders in and out of government to rebuild our infrastructure. We need leaders who aren't afraid to support and enforce the laws of the nation, and even to work to change laws that do not work for the collective good of the American people. Among all of the candidates, we need leaders that understand that character and integrity are not political adjectives to add to commercial voiceovers.

Instead of looking at Senator Obama's melanin content, look at the whole man, READ his policy stances and base your 'opinion' on who he is and what he stands for, not skin color and heritage that he (like all of us) had no choice about.

AMEN to what Obama said.
It was almost a back hand way to say Blacks are just as much a racist community.

It is not a black enough issue.If it was ,it means there is a dvision in Black Americas mind.He can be the force to break racism on both sides. Whites are painted as racists, but blacks for the same fears call themseslves skeptical. America is not this black and white,or us vs them. We are supposed to be united not united but some more than others. He is in a very touchy situation.

He dealt with this in a forthright manner. I am impressed.

It's answers like this that will clear up the mess that is currently the campaign. Blackness, religion, gender, and already-solved ethics issues are clouding the real problems such as health care, national infracture, and ending the war. Let's move on.

I agree with Sen. Obama, the American Culture continues to look at the wrong superficial issues; such as skin color, being too short, or too heavy. Let's really concentrate on the strength of the candidate based on his true qualifications and true beliefs, not the manufactured propaganda machine. Look to what happened when President George W. Bush was elected, he looked plenty presidential and we got an incompetent leader.

In my opinion, color, race or sex have no place in America's decision of who will be our elected officials What is important is their individual ability to recognize an issue and come up with a solution that will be best for the country as a whole. The country is made up of individuals and our thoughts and actions should not be pre-judged by our color, sex, or race.

How can being raised in hawaii not be concidered USA.. that CNN reporter just said "being raised out side of the US" - Hawaii IS part of the US!

What exactly does it mean to be black enough? Does it mean talking a certain way? Going to a certain school? Having more friends of color than not? I am a bi-racial individual (Black & White) and I always wonder why us (as black folks) have to give one another a hard time. We should be proud that a candidate with Obamaa's credentials no only will represent America, but represent African American and tear away at some racial stereotypes that still affect African Americans today. I hope the question of his "blackness" is not going to be asked anymore

Senator Obama hit it right on the head. For the record, I'm a 57 year old white guy in Vermont which is a box of "Ivory Snow" compared to a lot of others. Am a Republican and Joan Mc Cains' former County Co-Chair in 2000.

I want the best in the White House. This means not only great intelligence, but a lack of past baggage that ends up as a distraction. Senator Obama is not only my choice, but is electable. Not because he's black, white, asian or whatever, but because he's Barack Obama and stands for change.

If the press will do their job and ask where a candidate stands on issues and offers solutions to our pressing problems, then we'll get the best.

Will being "black enough" make Obama a better president? If you think it will, you are not ready for a black president.

America is a 'great' nation superficially but habours characteristics of racial discrimination and human profiling based on sex and religion. These are characteristics usually associated with so called developing or transitional societies. As an African, I have always wondered why African-Americans question 'blackness' especially one of their own, just because his maternal lineage is white. As one of the commentators on this topic has put it – the questioning of Hon. Senator Obama's 'blackness' is one of the outcomes of 'slavery' or rather mental slavery, which African Americans need to emancipate themselves from. Good heavens white candidates come to the pulpits of for your votes and now presents the opportunity to have a candidate who has dedicated his career to support and contribute to the emancipation of African Americans and you question not his integrity but the degree of his blackness. Brethren and sisteren in the diaspora, I have walked the dungeons of the slave castle of Cape Coast and sincerely from the deepest of my heart to give Senator Obama the opportunity not all for African Americans but for American as a whole, as well as the world the opportunity to make Dr. King's dream alive.

Obama see yourself as a human being with a good intention for America and the world in general.....don't be proud you nailed the question right but be yourself and the Lord would guide you.

BHO is still an unknown quantity among his black brethren. Black people are supporting HRC because they know of her an not of BHO, and not his visionary qualities, his educational background and that he can think for himself, and what he has stood for so far in his political career. The statistic about how many black people that has actually read his two books as against white folks might be startling indeed. Black people still regard white people as their ultimate saviors, ironic as that may seem, and seem reluctant to trust their own to do good by and for them. A black colleague of mine at work could not even recognize BHO and when she came back next day to talk about him said that he was Muslim. When asked why she supported HRC she said that was the name she knew and not BHO. Opine I that he would make a far better President than HRC. But the powers that be know that they would have a better chance of controlling HRC than BHO. His response could not have been better but would other mainstream media carry it and give it a life of its own.

Is America ready for a black president?Is America ready for a woman president?
How about, are Americans able to see that neither Obama or Clinton have done anything to deserve being elected?
If Democrats nominate either one, it will be a quaranteed win for the Republican nominee.

I agree with Obama! Only the black community ask these stupid questions. White journalists do not ask white candidates if they are Irish enough, Italian enough. Black so called proffessor's say if a black man marries a white woman he associates WHITE with success RUBBISH get over it black is BLACK! We do what we want!

I wonder why Americans like bringing up the race issue when this country is no longer identified by color. The idea of an American is shown not by the color of the skin, the cultural heritage, or even the religious affiliation. The primary definition I think is a loyalty to the principles this country was founded under. Obama as far as I can tell personifies those principles, whether he be black or whatever. African Americans and everyone else in this country maybe should start thinking of themselves as Americans first and whatever the race second. Obama is doing this for sure. To him, his identity as an American is more important than anything else. I don't think he'll win the election because not enough people think he can effectively pull of his goals and still stick to his principles. You really need a snake in office right now, and I think Hillary fits that bill well enough. Who knows, maybe once the country stabilizes, Obama may be a good candidate.

I have a better idea. How about the question being asked be directed to every person running," The very best person should be elected to lead this country into the future. Why do you think you are the best person to fulfill this role?"
The questiuon strips away color, religion, money and everything else.
It is the most basic of questions to ask and answer.
John Caffrey-Long Valley NJ

Race has always been a big part of American policy and politics is certainly no different. However, it's about time that we realize that we are living in 2007 and that we are capable of looking at people as individuals–people who may be of whatever color but that doesn't mean that they have to be a certain kind of person because of that color. I'm very glad that Sen. Obama was able to sit down and say exactly what he feels about this persistent question that keeps coming at literally every debate. We need to look at people, and at our presidential candidates as who they are, what they've done, and what they propose to do for us, not what they might represent due to a category we've created.

As an African American Woman, the question whether someone is black enough is very offensive. The question portrays ignorance in which Obama's answer was very appropriate. What is amazing to me, no one ask if Edwards is white enough or if Hillary is female enough or any other candidate such stupid question. I think America's racism still rings LOUD

Being a 6th generation southerner, a Republican, I have come to embrace the notion that we ought to view people as people – not color – not race. I don't care about the color of the candidate, it is impossible to drag this country down anymore than the aforementioned Republican party has over the last 7 years. Mr. Obama can perhaps restore our dignity and compassion we use to have. Perhaps he can restore the moral compass that the US has strayed from because of the likes of Cheney, Rove, Bush and the rest of group that has done so much to destroy the values of the American people. Black, White, whatever – it really makes no difference. We shouldn't interrupt the healing of America by seeing and relating to color. We deprive ourselves of folks that can bring talents and skills to a society that has been led down a destructive path. I will most certainly vote for Mr. Obama – color, race – doesn't matter -we're talking about the survival of a country, a way of life.

Obama may be black.
Obama may be white.
Obama may be any number of things, but the only thing that matters to me is that he's an American patriotic enough to take on what is arguably the most important role in our free society, that he's honest and forthright in answering our questions, and that he does the best job he is capable of if elected to lead.

Race, religion and a whole host of other variables only point out the division in America from the standpoint of those who'd equate their faction as being endowed by some elitist or divinely blessed status of superiority. However, they fail to realize, in believing such, they, not the candidate, display the real failing in their Americanism.

one has the liberty and freedom to be prideful. But law does not exist to protect pride.

The Senator is absolutly correct in his statement regarding black's mistrust of other blacks. Senator Obama does not appear to be someone who can be controlled by anyone black or white. He is an intelligent, extremely competent candidate and one who in my opinion is what the United States needs as a leader. As a black woman I have no doubts about is competence or blackness and I hope others will judge him by the same standards that other candidates are judged by.

hi, the question of whether he is black enough is so ridiculous i had to say something. what if hilary was asked if she is white enough? how would the world respond? would white people dedicate this type of press to it? i think not. this seems like a concerted attempt to put a wedge between those people who should be throwing their full support behind mr obama instead of continuing with this stupid question. cmon people grow up. if you cant see that mr obama would be the best candidate for you to vote for then i guess we have already lost. i see his character, his smartness, his ability to talk to people and his ability to listen. he seems like such a great guy and if his own people are asking questions like that then what is this world coming to? the race issue continues to haunt non-white americans. how sad...

Toni Morrison once joked that Bill Clinton was our 1st black president. If Bill was how much more so Barack, even if his mother was a white woman from Kansas? And, oh by the way, does it matter? He's not even running as the 'black' candidate? Its not like he's Clarence Thomas crying racisim because its convenient. Judge him as a man and on the policies he's pushing. I mean, get real, is Hillary or Edwards or Richards or Powell black enough? Just because Obama didn't come up through the civil rights movement doesn't mean he didn't earn his stripes like every other black man of his generation.

Obama is unnecessarily blaming the black journalists for the "black enough" questions. This question is no different than someone asking John Kerry if he is "working class" enough. What is meant by "black" is the mainstream black culture. One cannot pretend to be in a group. Being or not being in a group does not say anything about one's credentials to be the president. Obama has plenty of positive credentials but he is unnecessarily and dishonestly trying to claim that he is "black enough". Neither of his parents were part of the mainstream american black culture. There is no way for him to claim that he is part of it. He certainly should not lecture about what's the real issue and so forth. It's entirely different for Bill Cosby or Cornel West to publicly critique the black society. Barack is not quite there yet in his understanding of the "american" black culture.

As a white independent and strong supporter of Obama, this question of "black enough" disturbs me. He's lived his whole life in the USA, meaning that he's encountered the same racism as any other black person here. I support him because of his freshness and his positions, not his race, but I'm pleased by his biracial heritage. It means he'll fight for the rights of minorities and other disadvantaged, but I also believe he doesn't hate me and won't punish me for being white. I'm worried that what the "black enough" questioners are really saying is that he's not anti-white enough. Would they deprive this wonderful man of the White House because of that?

Obama has no real civil rights credentials, and since he appeals to whites as well as blacks, because of his personna, he will have to continue to face this predicament...it's the same for any black professional...blacks distrust black professional success because they believe he "must have sold out to get where he is"...obviously, nothing could be farther from the truth...Obama appeals because he is presenting a sound alternative to current day politics. Blacks eventually will get behind Obama in record numbers...

I'm an African American who also graduated from a white Ivy League institution. I grew up in Compton, CA
which was a predominately black community during the sixties an seventies. Am I black enough?
Thank you,
Alan

I think he hit the hammer on the head. What that tells me is that White America can look past his race and evaulate his record yet Black America is still looking at race. Sort of ironic if you ask me. The bottom line is that in order for a Black person to be elected President he or she is going to have to be able to appeal to a wide range of the population. If he or she tries to run on only black issues then they will not make it.

I am tired of hearing about Obama's supposed lack of experience. He has had more real world experience than any candidate running, from teaching constitutional law to being a civil rights attorney and community organizer, etc. He knows the reality of the world and is more relevant than the others. What kind of experience does Edwards have with one term as a Senator? What kind of right does Hillary have to claim vast experience because she was first lady?

I'm reposting the following from someone I thought said it best.

So can I ask a question?
How much experience does one get from being first lady? People and HRC’s campaign keep saying she has 35 years of experience. As first lady of Arkansas and the U.S, all I know they do is greet visitors and decorate the white house for christmas, make speeches and make public appearances and travel overseas to seem diplomatic.
She hasn’t spent that much time in the senate. Wow… such hardcore experience. I’ll throw my support behnid the candidate who worked helping disadvantaged Americans on the ground directly, who did civil rights law, who taught constitutional law and who strongly believe in turning the page. This is what america needs, not superficial and artificially inflated experience which basically draws on the substanceless status quo if the establishment that invaded Iraq, did not catch Osama Bin Laden when Clinton had the chance to, did nothing about Rwanda, created a Nafta that secured Canadian and Mexican jobs more than it did American jobs and opportunities.
Being a ceremonial figure in the white house doesn’t give you the experience you need. Avoiding specifics and hiding behind semantics doesn’t give you the credibility you need. Thats what Mrs. Clinton has done.
I think people need to re-evaluate the so call experience of Sen. Clinton when compared to Obama’s.
The Audacity of CNN’s clinton’s supposed inevitability is no matah against the Audacity of Hope.
Posted By Eustace., New York, NY : August 7, 2007 4:49 pm

Isn't Obama bi-racial??? Why do is he called "black". Isn't that inaccurate?!

Why do they keep saying that the country is not ready for a black president? are we ever going to solve racesim by indirectly talking about it in times like this? why can't we try a black president and see how he will do and after all we can impeach him if he is not fit to be president. what i can ask the country to do is stop calling names like black and white let us be all one and see if we can solve the country's problems. please stop the black and white issue.
thanks

Finally the heart of the matter. He wasn't first on my pick list for President but with this kind of insight and thoughtfulness he just jumped up a whole bunch of spots. This gentlemen seems to be delivering what others only talk about – hope.

I'm a white woman who, like Senator Obama, grew up living all around the world (my dad was an Army doctor). Although not everyone picks this up from having lived in different cultures, I soon learned as a child that skin color had nothing to with whether I liked someone – it all had to do with what kind of person they were (i.e., their character) and whether we had interests in common. This has held true throughout my life.

I would like to see Senator Obama as our next President because he's intelligent, articulate, and someone who understands the complexities of the challenges facing our nation and knows how to listen and build consensus. in order to meet those challenges. As an added bonus, I believe he truly understands our Constitution and would uphold it (as opposed to trying to shred it).

I couldn't care less what color he is!

The question asked had nothing to do with his ability; which is what I hope we all look for in a candidate. Of all the candidates Sen. Obama by far looks to be in the lead of honest integrity. With all the spin we get everyday from virtualy every political office I would rally around a president who can talk straight to the american people with the integrity Sen. Obama has displayed. I can wait to see how history will unfold.

That is an impressive answer to a difficult question. What is "black enough" and what does being "black" mean? These questions have plagued us for an unreasonable amount of time because their answers don't provide anything useful. Individually, and as a whole, black people need to focus on progress and stop focusing on juvenile things like light skin vs. dark skin and city vs. county. These controversies take up too much time in the black life and they detract from any positive work that black people do. For all the years of civil rights movements and fighting for equality, we still fall prey to one of the oldest strategies: divide and conquer. You don't see anyone asking Edwards or Clinton if they are "white" enough, because it's a ridiculous question reserved for those who would waste valuable time and energy wondering about the "right" answer to that question.

Are we ready for a brown-eyed president?
How about a president with curly hair?
Are we ready for a president with five fingers?
How about a president with five fingers AND ten toes?
Are we ready for a president who makes mistakes?
Are we ready for a president who says things (in retrospect) that don't fit 'the line'?

Maybe not...

What should matter is what a person thinks, believes, and does. Not the color of their skin, their sex, or not being holy and perfect. African-Americans need to decide what matters more...their skin color or the individual. If Obama does become the Democratic candidate it is because he has passion, goals, and ideas, not because of outmoded and exploitive racial stereotypes.

Others have already mentioned it, but the media is primarily to blame for much of the racial devisiveness in the US. It's that "first black CEO", "first black Senator", "first black (fill in the blank)" mentality. [They do it with "women" too.] When will we get over that crud?! I'm white– I don't give a flip what color a candidate's skin is– I'm more concerned about the candidate's stance on issues, the quality of the person's character, & the ability of the person as to whether they're prepared to do the job. Black, white, brown, yellow, whatever... we need to get past that!! I really like Obama, but right now I'm leaning toward Hillary because I think she's got more experience & is better prepared for the job. However, if Obama gets the nomination, I'll have no problem whatsoever supporting him.

Obama impressed me with that statement. After reading the 200+ comments, I can see where the sentiment comes from. You have African Americans that have commented that he is not black enough since he has been educated and risen above living in the "Hood". That the whites are still keeping the black man down...how can you say that, look at Rice, Powell and the slew of black congressmen, plus the black Leaders in our armed forces. I read were one writer stated that we were not ready for an ex-slave Commander in Chief...I really researched Obama's Bio and could not find when he was a slave, who his owner was and how was he freed.

Come people, look at what each candidate brings to the table to help America return to greatness.

Amen to that.

He looks Black to me.

As a Black man and an American; I believe many Black folk are still dealing with the hatred of our own taught to us during slavery. That lesson has kept us divided for centuries, easily pacified, controlled and misled. The time to change how we think is well over due.

Obama do your thing!

Indeed, Obama is NOT black enough. If to black America, "blackness" means "minority" – a word that means "lesser" and if "blackness" is equated with ignorance, ghetto, and a refusal to uplift oneself, then most certainly, Senator Obama is not black enough.
However, to the black America that believe that we are not lesser but equal, that we can achieve any goal our intelligent minds tell us we can, and are prepared to work towards, then Senator Obama is simply an American (not a black or green or pink American)and he is as qualified as any of the other candidates to lead his country, America.

I am a white american from Texas I think that Obama is a very interesting candidate, one I may vote for and I'm republican. I voted for Bush and I'm somewhat conservative. From my perspective I don't think color should impact an election but of course it will in the minds of many. As a white american my only fear from having a black president would be if that person were un-educated and "hood". I would have the same reservations about any other race. On another note I would not vote for a candidate who was not either white, black or native american because I think we should run our own country...

Posted By vjp, toronto, ontario

You need to get over your issues as well. Regardless of the country you or I live in, neither is perfect. I would suggest you stop judging an entire country by a vocal few and realize we are neighbors who could also realize a dream of a stronger bond amongst us all. Unless of course I should assume all "Canadiens" are like you.

I think it is long past time to stop thinking in terms of black and white only. This is not reality. We live in a world in which the of blending all races is accelerating. A rapidly increasing number of individuals have a rich heritage of many cultural, geographic and ethnic backgrounds. The old idea that "that drop of blood" assigns a person into one of four or five major categories is archaic and does not serve us well. May we applaud the individual instead of resorting to an either/or type of classification.

I agree that he nailed it, but I also think he should have addressed this issue like he did at this convention a lot earlier in his campaign.

America needs to stop judging based on color and family background and start looking at a persons intelligence to lead and listen. I realize that requires Americans to think for themselves, something that they seem challenged by, but maybe we wouldn't have bought the notion that the current president was as qualified and right for the job when we put him in office the second time. Black, white, Hispanic, female... who cares. Are you smart enough to lead this country wisely and return us to a position on the world stage as a respected leader of the free world.

Maybe we'll never get over the race issue but personally I'm sick of it. we're people, Americans, and what does it matter what race Obama is or what race I am? Is qualified to be the president or not? That's what should matter.

I am supporting Obama for one reason – throughout his personal and private life, he has always excercised good judgment – something seriuosly lacking with the so called "experienced" crowd in the Bush administration. Our county is crying out for a leader who is optimistic, with good jusgment who can lead us out of this "malaise" that the country seems to have fallen into the last 8 years.

Regardless of his skin color, regardless if he is or isn't "black enough" it is clear that he is the only candidate in either party that can lead us going forward.

Obama is the ideal candidate for the times, he has some wonderful ideas and its time for a 'real change' in America. Only he can do that, the country does not need Bill Clinton again, and that's what you would get with Hillary.

I hope the issue of race is laid to rest. And we can get on to more important reasons why Obama would make a Great President! My daighter is Bi-racial and I hope by the time she is adult no one will question if she is a good person based of if she is black or white enough. Dig deeper people!

Black, white, brown, Asian, American Indian...it doesn't matter. What matters are the issues, and Obama is clearly lacking in judgement and experience in this respect. He is "black enough," because if he weren't black, he wouldn't even be a senator. Drop the race, focuse on the issues, and his chance to be president will fall by the wayside.

Just to clarify, Obama was NEVER a professor.

He had a part-time appointment as a lecturer, which is non-tenure track, at U. of Chicago. Don't distort the truth if he wants to run the race honestly.

Unfortunately being Black in this country will always remain a Race issue. It is part of human nature and no amount of diversity or sensitivity training will ever change that. We can continue to chip away at gaining equality for all but total equality will never be achieved. Obama has a tough road ahead and I seriously doubt he can break down this Race barrier...put a crack in it maybe!! At least he is not afraid to tackle this issue head on!

Indeed, there are many "isms" that often punctuate our ambitions is life. This is so irrespective of the color of our skins. However, I find that as a people, we as Blacks too often use racism to unduly limit or question our possibilities. We demand equality but are suspicious of people of other races who support our causes and vilify the “Osamas” who dare to earn broad appeal. I once saw a bumper sticker on a “brother’s” car that read: “You don’t have to be White to be a (expletive).” I personally would not want to vote for a candidate who is appealing only to voters of his/her race. Would you?

I agree with obama in regards to the
questions of his blackness,it is truly
ridiculous.I think black folks should
embrace obama he's running just like
the other democrats running and beleive
me you black folks don't need to worry
obama has not forgotten who he is or where he's from so just support the man
and wish him the best.

The whole thing that gets me about this stupid debate is this: What is "black enough"?

Hurray for Senator Obama. It should not be an issue. So far the only thing I have observed is that Senator Obama is concerned about this country and wants to make it a better place to be. With that said, the small minded individuals that make this a race issue, be they Black, White or Alien are wasting time on an aspect that doesn't matter. Also while the class system is ever present in todays society, we will not get a President that is anything but a class above the average working man or woman. It is our jobs to try and pick the man who may best represent us all. The Country. The Untied States of America.

I don't care if he's black enough, I just want to know is he (or any candidate, for that matter) American enough? And what an insulting question all around. I'm bothered by the focus constantly put on Obama's father's heritage, African, while his mother's heritage, Kansas (Caucasian), is steadily ignored. Obama is both, and I wonder if his mother's family feels slighted or offended. I don't really care what race or sex these candidates are ... I care about whether or not the next US president can pull us out of this quagmire the current administration put us in. I'll bet Obama would be relieved to just be another candidate with some great ideas, not just the guy people wonder is black enough. Hillary's not asked if she's woman enough. Bush wasn't asked if he was smart enough. Get past Obama's skin color and listen to what he has to say.

I can't believe that he's still being asked this. I think he's proven it by far that he is "black enough!" He's no where near an Uncle Tom. He can very much relate to the black community. I think he nailed his answer right on point. I think some of these people who are still asking this question, has serious issues within themselves. Now if it were say Clarence Thomas, then yes I'd be asking that question!!

I am white. My son's mother is black. The thing I worry most about isn't what some rascist white guy might say to him; no, it's the dreaded accusation from blacks that he isn't "black enough."

His mother used to get the same insult thrown at her in high school and even college. Because she was well-mannered and thoughtful, she was accused of "acting white." The implication is that to be truly black - to be seen as "keeping it real" - one must act like an inarticulate thug or cloak themselves in some other black stereotype.

It's bad enough when kids think like that. But the worst offenders are often adults. Surely the spirits of many dead black educators and civil rights leaders observe this insanity with disgust and sorrow.

Will someone please tell me what other ethnic group in America tries so hard to undermine the dignity its own?

You're right–perhaps we should make journalists ask each white contender if they consider themselves white enough for the job. Racism is promulgated by acknowledging a purely artificial cultural construct, that has little meaning. Let's all be color blind.

Senator Barak Obama should not have to waste his time with this type of comments. His skin color makes no difference in his ability to be our President. Only his attributes, his education and former experiences, ability to lead, to express his ideas clearly and effectively, and accept constructive criticism, using it to improve his presidency as able. He should appear confident in his ability to improve our image on the world stage and improving relatiions with our enemies. Obana fits the bill! Aging Senior

When you ask a question like "are you black enough" you are missing the point, and buying into what people of all races and skin colors have been fighting for for decades. Let's look at this man's credentials and ambitions, and soul. In all appearances, this man encompasses America. Let's open our ears and minds to what he has to say.

Like many here, I think the real issue is, is Obama experienced enough? And I think the answer is no. Being "fresh, new, hopeful" is not nearly enough. There is really no track record of achievements that he can list that would qualify him to be president. From the little I have seen in the campaigns, he says little of substance, but has a LOT of charisma. Charisma isn't nearly enough.

You Americans really need to get over this "color of skin" thing!!

When you stop counting and judge a person solely by their character.......then perhaps a certain "dream" of Martin Luther King will be realized.

No! Obama did not nail it in the head at all; quite the opposite. A black is a black, is a black.
The more the issue is revisited the darker the prospects get for Obama.
2 hurdles are set too high for him. The first and most important is that no, neither south America, nor Europe and neither Asia are ready for a black ex-slave Commander-in-Chief of the American arsenal.
The second is that American voters are not so naive not to have noticed the compelling force of the Clinton & Clinton duo at the helm of their nation.
Give centuries to time; then perhaps the landscape might change; but just not yet.

I am a white Jew. Until I heard the question regarding Obama's "blackness" repeated over and over by the press, I never gave his "blackness" or lack thereof a thought.

I don't look at Clinton and
think: "here is a white woman," nor do I look at Romney and think: here is a Mormon.

I look at Obama and think: "here is a gifted and astute man who would make America an exciting place in which to live again," I look at Clinton and think: "here is the same old politician," and I look at Romney and think, "what a dreadful country we could become under his leadership."

I think Senator Obama’s comments were applicative and on target. There is this misconception in modern black America that if you behave in a way that is not stereotypically “black” or one portrayed by the media, then you are pandering to white people. John McWhorter explores this theme in his book Losing the Race in which he analyzes why the black youth of today associate intelligence and education with whiteness. If only America had more men like Barack Obama standing in the forefront as prominent leaders (not just as “black” leaders), then perhaps this association with integrity, intelligence, and aptitude could become American ideals and not just “white” ones.

You're missing though, or avoiding, another salient point. The question is more "Is 'on-the-fence' White America ready to trust that a Black president won't engage in 'White-hostile' special interest pandering?" I, for one, am not.

Sen. Obama is the epitome of an American. He best represents us all.

@Sheila, Brooklyn, NY

Excellent idea Sheila!!!!!! Since you know of people that are getting favors and contracts from Hillary in exchange for their support, please post them here! We look forward to your list!!!!

The issue of Senator Obama's "blackness" brings to mind a story I heard on Paul Harvey's radio show whiles I was in Germany some years ago. "There was a family stranded on top of their roof during a storm, and they kept calling God to come save them. they decline all eforts by other rescuer, hoping God himself will come down to save them. They died and went to heaven and asked God why he didn't save them. The reply was, he sent several boats out there but they did not want to get in."
In this same way, I feel blacks in the bottom of their hearht do not really know what they want. Our savior is still the "white person". We will even talk about how the white people will talk about voting for the black person till they reach the voting booth, and vote otherwise.
Now that we the blacks have a kind to vote for, we are busy and wasting our time in finding out if he is black enough. I bet one day we will be told a black president was sent to us and we did not want it.
thank you.

Good insightful answer by obama

The reality is that his race matters. The hope, the dream is that Whites would not vote against him nor would Blacks vote for him because he is black.

Whats wrong with the man? Ask him a stupid and irrelevant question(race) and he gave an almost immaculate answer. But when given a good question(foriegn affairs) he responds ridiculously immature. Good statemanship but not good enough to run a country. Our country is at a defining moment on the chapter of international interventions. We owe the world to put a leader with proper skills in foriegn matters on the intricate world stage. I wont vote for him.

Way to go Obama!!!
Enough said!

Obama should be the next President of the United States of America. There is no doubt.

Until Mr. Obama and others refrain from the subtle, yet effecting term, 'folk or folks from their dialog in explain racism, then they are still contributing to the dilemma. That term is so deeply rooted in historic southern culture that it even still has a hold on him. How about black people and white people and not White Folks or African American's? As long as we continue to compartmentalize our collective culture we will continue to feel the divide.

I don't think the question is whether he is "black enough" for America. I think the real question is whether the country is ready for an articulate, brilliant, trustworthy individual to lead this country after having a bumbling idiot as President. Too bad the press didn't question whether our current President was "smart enough" before he took office.

Loved that you got what the good Senator was saying. Thanks for the sharing!

I am continually amazed at the ridiculous assertion that some in the black community and the media raised about Senator Obama,s blackness. Who among us has the self proclaimed moral authority to question this man,s blackness? (whatever that means). Rather than focus on whether he is black enough, how about focusing on the truly important issues that he has raised such as the high rate of illegitimate births in our community, high school drop out rates among our youth, substance abuse and the type of daily violence which occurrs in our communites that is only equal to what we see in Bagdad or Beirut(witness Newark, Chicago, Oakland, etc.) THAT!! is far more important than this absurd issue about Senator Obama's blackness. Thanks to the senator, this issue is now put to REST!!

Obama was absolutely correct in his answer. The persons who ask the question "are you black enough?" may extoll "integration" for purposes of jobs and living benefits, but socially they are deeply "polarized". I admire Obama for his answer, which means that his color should have no significance to anyone in determining his ability to be a trustworthy and strong leader. The "question" reveals that it does.

I must agree that Obama did hit it in the nail on his response to his degree of "blackness". However, i think the issue is not only so much about the mistrust of black men (a valid point), but also a question of how much can the black community can relate to Obama, not so much of his color, but his experience as a black man (socio-political), his struggles in other words.

Is it strange that the black community has historically (and rightfully) said "Don't look at us/treat us different because we are black" but has consistently brought the 'black question' up in regards to Obama? A group that seemingly wants to move away from the race focus needs to concentrate on the issues Obama is campaigning for and not whether he is black enough. Forget focusing on him as the black candidate and back him as the right candidate for all of us.

I have to agree with the Senator. Why do we continue to ask that question? Do we ask a white candidate if they're "white enough?" We do need to take a look at ourselves. To continue to ask that question shows a lack of trust.

As an African American, I feel the mere fact that Obama could have potentially prevented the Iraq war says that he is "American" enough!

The question posed to Obama suggests that being sufficiently "black" is a necessary condition for him to earn the black vote.

In that case, he is by default "black enough," as he is the only candidate who is "black" by any measure.

I think Sen. Obama is absolutely correct. My concern is who is the best person to lead this country? Not if they are black enough or white enough or Hispanic enough or Asian enough. I come from a family of incredible diversity and our discussions on politics run down liberal/conservative lines, not colors. Let's get beyond the matter of color and judge a person by what they offer in leadership.

The USA in 2007 should be far beyond worrying about race. Our concern should be finding the most qualified president to guide, motivate, and lead us into the best possible future.

Seems to me that Obama was a little too prepared for this question. Could it be that this "Are you black enough" question and his response might have been pre-planned? I'll admit that I'm impressed by a candidate's intelligence and that intelligence definately is a factor in how I will vote, but also to be considered is the true intent of the candidate. This country has been run by intelligent, yet underhanded and self serving politicians for long enough. Be careful how you vote, but be sure to vote.

I think the majority of posts here are missing the point of the question. It’s not about race or skin color, it’s about family history and common experience.

The majority of African-Americans are the descendants of Africans who were brought to this country against their will in slave ships. Obama’s father was an upper-class Kenyan who came here to pursue a Ph.D. at Harvard. The majority of African-Americans share common cultural experiences gained from growing up in a society where (sadly) race does still matter. Obama went to grade school in Indonesia. So the question was not about senator Obama’s skin color, which is obvious, but about his understanding of the shared black experience in America.

That said, I agree that he has handled the question well.

I think Obama might have asked, Why isnt it time for a black man to run for president? America, thank God, is finally shifting away from it's white only mentallity. There is an increasing movement where black men are marrying white women and black women are marrying white women. With the help of God at some point in our future we,as a nation, will be so racially mixed that the question of wheather a black man should be president will never even be thought of.
I personally dont look at a candidate because he/she is black, white or purple. I look to the issues and the party. I would much rather see Colin Powell run for president. Not because Powell is black man but because he has the strength that I think we need to see in our nations leaders.
I'm a republican, Obama wont be getting my vote wheather he is chosen by the democratic party or not. Not because he's black, but because he's democrat. I do however respect the man for his courage to stand up to "White" America and say "Yes, I am good enough to be your President"!

Roland Martin, I am a big fan of you and Obama. Those blacks are just plain jealous..they are player haters!!!! Obama has done more for African-Americans in the Illinois senate than any of his opponents. He has the unique experience of different cultures. There is nothing like this experience.

It is not a question if Obama is black enough, but can Obama answer the question "Will Obama, if elected, be objective enough towards all people of all races, ethnic backgrounds, when it comes to time to making sound decisions that will benefit and reflect positively towards the United States of America?" And if he can answer yes then he has my vote.

It's not black, it's position

Isn't Obama both black and white? He can UNITE us both. He nailed it...journalists need to stop asking stupid questions.

Major thumbs up on Obamas response. As an African American I think we invoke an extreme amount of negativity towards our peers that are in positions of power and on a normal basis. Its almost as if its a subconscious, and trained reaction for us to be so critical of each other. We need to stop doing the plantation owners work for him. I mean that where we got it from in the first place. This scrutiny we have towards our own skin should be ejected from our personal norms as African Americans. We already catch enough negative scrutiny from almost every other race on the planet.

mr Obama is a good man and a excellent Senetor the "question of is he black enough should not be an issue in fact because he is black should never be an issue except to the racist black people".the real Question is it in his heart? "to Lead America to greatness yes it is in his heat!" so now the next question is "does he have the experiance?" not yet but with time he may have all that he needs! Keep going Mr. Obama and good luck.

GOOD FOR OBAMA! The truth is, Black America, although STILL faced with various degrees of racism depending on where you go, is playing catch-up with white Americans who are willing to let the race issue go. Increasingly, I see white Americans bending over backward to prove that race is not an factor, or if it is, is one they are willing to acknowledge, mitigate and reconcile. Meanwhile, I see too many black Americans holding on to the issue, using it to justify points-of-view and behavior that undermine progress in race relations. I applaud the courage of black leaders who say it's time for black Americans to look in the mirror if they want to up the tempo in improving race relations in America.

He did not answer the question!! The question was not is he black enough, the question was, "What gives him hope that America is ready for a black president." the question had nothing to do with the, is he black enough issue. The last line, bottom line: Obama nailed it. ??? He did not even answer the question he was asked, am I the only one who can see this?? Obama went off in another direction with his answer, although a good answer for another question, this was not what was asked.

First and last, look at the candidate and that person's stand on the issues. Maybe, we should do this like the "Dating Game". Ask the questions, listen to the answers and then select, all without seeing the person. Black, yellow, male or female, it really doesn't matter.

I think Mr. Obama was right about why journalists kept asking this nonsense question. I believe we should be focus on wether or not he is qualified to do the most important job in this Great Nation. In my opinion and as a conservative, I strongly believe he will be a great leader for our country.

He is absolutly right. There is a mistrust among Blacks in America period. This problem started when blacks were separated during slavery and to survive they were told to tell on each other. The question is how do we change that? Blacks need to be more helping and supporting of each other and stop bringing each other down.

I agree. The question of whether Obama is "black enough" is really a statement about deeper issues in the American public about mistrust, trust, and "race" in politics and government. This is where the real work needs to be done with regard to moving this multicultural nation forward into the future.

If the skin color was not an issue in voting a president, why would it be brought up as an issue? The real question is if America is ready for a female president? That is a thought that has not been embraced since the birth of the Nation.

I'm tired of everyone asking the question "is Barack Obama's black enough." How black does he have to be. This is the first time in my generation that I have a legitimate African American candidate I am excited about and the media has come up with is he black enough. I don't hear anyone questioning is a white candidate "white enough." That question would be offensive and I feel it is offensive in this case. Please let it go!!

It is this honest, intelligent and truth seeking manner that Obama has, that for me, is the reason he is the best presidential candidate we've had since I've been able to vote. Not even a race in my opinion.

I would be more impressed if Obama were presented as proudly bi-racial– advocating pride in being part of both races. Many Americans are of blended heritage, including in my own family.What's wrong with being both? When the press prefers to call him "black," it discounts half of his heritage. As Tony Dungee and Lovie Williams maintained during Super Bowl hype, the greatest time will be when the race label is left out.

The question is can he run the Office with dignity and trust. Regardless of his skin color. Unlike the "white man" from the cornerliqour store that's in charge now.

I don't agree with Mr. Obama's comments. The reason a question to wether he is black enough comes up. Is the same reason every white person I know asks me; what do you think of Obama? As if I am an expert on the man because I am Black. I agree for the most part with the first comment. Its a more a question of culture than skin color. And if Mr. Obama dose not understand that, Then he will not get my vote because he has already failed, in not understanding the question.

the senator is right on the nose.

I'm white and support Obama. Right now if a primary was held between Hillary and Barack, Barack would win the majority of whites and Hillary the majority of blacks. This is hard for me to understand. I enjoy multiculturalism, but I also think Obama is the most creative candidate in the campaign. But he can't get the black vote. Why?

In my opinion as a white american, I do not see Obama's ethnicity as being an issue at all. Is Hillary Clinton "white enough" to lead America? The argument is juvenile. Instead of arguing his "blackness", we should be examing his credentials and character, not the color of his skin.

Good for him. It IS an idiotic question.

Sen. Obama represents the change to come in an American society where African Americans take the best elements of their culture, and incorporate them into every other racial group.

The lack of support of Obama by the black leadership astounds me.

And we have to start calling people out, by name.

A lot of Hillary's black supporters in the political, entertainment, and literary arena are also paying back favors doled out to them by the Clinton administration. Likewise, some black local business leaders are being offered contracts by HRC.

Obama mirrors the great Presidents that founded our country. When elected president he will be remembered with the likes of George Washington and Abraham Lincoln.

Was Clinton white enough. Was Bush white enough. I am a Proud Black Man and Obama nailed it. Its not the White majority who has the issue and ask this rediculous question its our own. Obama is American enough and if the people feel that he can lead us for the next 4 to 8 years then it will be done. Black or Not...

I believe that question was idirectly asking who Obama is going to favor.I feel the that the white majority is afraid of change and the idea that this man may place more effort on assiting minorities and on the other end I feel minorities will feel they now they have the top dog on thier side.If the man lives up to his reputation and is qualified favoritism should not be an issue the greater good of our nation and the needs of its diverse population should be the main issue.

Black, white, yellow, blaa, blaa, blaa. When are we going to be able to move on from all this "colored stuff".

I think this is a "black" problem. Surely not a "white" issue. Obama speaks for ALL Americans. He is a strong leader, brillant, great vision and certainly qualifies to be President of the USA for ALL people!

“What it really does is really lay bare, I think, that we’re still locked in this notion that if you appeal to white folks then there must be something wrong."
I have to agree with Sen. Obama on this point. It seems to me that a lot of African-Americans would rather have a crack smoking individual that speaks ebonics than a black man that appeals to whites.

Mr Martin, I am in agreement with you on this article. Senator Obama is runnig for the President of the United States, not the president of Black America!

I'm so tired of hearing if the guy is black enough. Ask yourself the question "can he do the job?" I would say with all faith, YES. For those that think he doesn't have any experience, look at your current president and ask if his experience is showing how much of a bumbling idiot he is. I'm voting for Obama, not because I'm black and he's black. I'm voting for him because I think he can make allies and improve growth for this country. I wasn't born in this country so I have no excuse that he "appeals to me" because I'm black. I don't know what it's like to be a black American so therefore I deem myself unbiased. I like Bill Clinton but I don't like Hillary. People need to realize that Hillary IS NOT Bill. I'm at the point to say anything other than Bush will be an improvement.

If you're dying and a black, white or asian doctor walks in, I'm sure you won't request an indian doctor. Obama in 08'. I'm a veteran and I say lets get our boys home and focus on home. You can't fix other peoples' problems when you haven't fixed yours at home.

Is he black enough is a side issue being asked by black Americans. In their worldview, and indeed in their real world I feel it is relevant enough to ask. Is it time to move on? Well, likely yes. I think his answer on a televised debate about catching a cab while folksy, a bit humorous, and intriguing in leaving some mystery for the audience to figure out was most profound. He is black enough to feel some suspicion by white folks, and hey by some black people. So coming from a white guy he is black enough. Should I be one to be making that statement? Perhaps not for empirical reasons, but I can for intellectual ones. Is he up to the job? Running helps to get him up for the job. Will I vote for him? No! He is not seasoned nor conservative enough. I wish him well.

Bravo, Barack. Very eloquent, well thought-out answer.

I'm still voting for Hillary, though.

Obama shows immense promise. However, I'm still not convinced he is READY.Maybe next time.

What happend to the days of grade school when the color of your skin did not matter. there should be no "White Man/Black Man" whats wrong with just plain old "American" the last time i checked an "American" albeit black or white says the pledge to the same exact flag?

We can't really determine what this means right now, this was awfully ambiguous and I personally would rather read exactly what Obama said, not one sentence of what he said and a bunch of talk.

I won't vote for Barrack Obama, not because of his race but because he lacks the experience and global strategic intellect to understand the role of the U.S. President as Commander in Chief of the Armed Forces and the complex forces at work in international politics affecting U.S. interests and national security. Perhaps with more experience he will.

It's about time somebody broke free of their own culturally self-imposed stereotypes and said that there's no static definition for being 'black'. I was kind of hoping for a Re-Enlightment Age for black society as a whole as they question what 'black' is, but Obama didn't question that.

Still, props to Obama.

I myself think that the most significant thing about this question and Obama's answer was this: once again, Obama is heads and shoulders beyond the mentality of many people [including journalists] and whenever he answers these shallow questions, he does so with unfailing grace, good will, and gentle teaching.

I kinda agree with comment #1, that when people ask "is he black enough," it's meant to ask does he really understand the predominant black culture and economic class ("predominantly working class, many even lower class.") Basically, I feel the question is "sure, he looks like me, but is he really like me?" Is Obama's view of the world similar to the "average" black person's? This is important, because although we all think voters should learn about candidates and all their stands on issues, a major shortcut which many people use is "is this person like me?" Voters vote for people who are like themselves, thinking that if they think alike, at least the candidate will act in a way that either the voter would actually approve of, or in a way that benefits the voter.

And yes, perhaps Obama has done many things that benefit the black community. But the question is how does he view the world? How does he experience it?

I happen to be Asian, but born in America. There's a term "twinkie," meaning I'm white on the inside. And honestly, I sometimes agree that my thought patterns are more similar to a white person's than a traditional Asian's. I know if I ever run for something, that will be an issue. No matter how greatly I champion issues important to Asian immigrants, it is clear that I will never fully understand their situations, nor will I have thought patterns that are in any way similar. An Asian immigrant shouldn't vote for me simply because I look like them. It is one thing to have knowledge that a particular issue is important to a group of people (but that issue doesn't really affect you personally.) It is a whole other thing to actually feel that particular issue as important to yourself, as well as to others.

In short, people (maybe not all people, but a lot of people), want to vote for candidates who think like themselves, not just look similar. The question "is he black enough?" probably translates to "is he similar enough?" (similar enough to the voter asking the question).

But then Pitts asked that last question: What gives Obama hope that America is ready for a black president?

The question wasnt if he was "Black Enough". The question was, as quoted above, Is American ready for a black president. And he DIDNT answer that question.

Thank God he answered that ridiculous question. I certainly hope he won't have to answer it again... BTW, he NAILED the answer except to say that some of the people who ask that question are still asking how he aspire to such a thing as being POTUS. Racism and sexism are alive and well in the Bible Belt.

This is a very difficult challenge for Obama to face. This should not be the case. He should be judged on his character and ability to execute the job he is campaigning for. Skin color should not be an issue for either blacks or whites. As a 47 year old white male, I do not care about race, I care about substance and the ability to move this country in a positive direction. Journalists create more of an issue than the general public. It is easier to stir the pot than to find real news to report on. this includes CNN.

My comments are not an endorsement of Barack Obama, rather a reminder to everyone to focus on the issues.

A great man once suggested we should judge a person based on the content of their character, not the color of their skin. Why do we have such a hard time understanding such a simple concept? Notice that if one group feels they are superior to another, conflict and suffering is the ultimate consequence.

Black enough?? Isn't he bi-racial??

We'll never stop harvesting the bitter fruits of prejudice and bigotry until we stop sowing the seeds and nurturing what springs up. Stop raising the issue. Focus on a potential leader's integrity, ability, vision, and desire to do what's right for the people.

Senator Obama's have a white mother african father, and a latino sister. This man knows nothing about being black in america. I am going to vote for him, because i do not care what color a person is, i careabout what he can, and will do for america.

Bravo! Finally common sense is spoken and intelligent questions are posed from ridiculous assumptions. Time to stop focusing on skin color and race, and look more deeply into the humanity of the human being and what he/she stands for.

If the person would be qualified as the President no matter his or her color, they should be president if the person is voted in fairly with the most electoral votes.

A great once suggested we should judge someone based on the content of their character, not the color of their skin.

I'm not sure if blacks don't trust a black candidate, but, as a white male, I don't care about the race, religion or gender of a presidential candidate. What's important to me is whether or not the candidate has the intellect and ability to deal with the major issues of national security, energy, and the economy.

It's disappointing to see the press focus on race, gender and religion as they have in this campaign thus far.

I am baffled that in the 21st century, we as African Americans still feel the need to "prove our blackness" to one another. I am so puzzled because I don't know what "being black enough" entails. What scale is used to measure one's "blackness"? Does being "Black" mean that one is a hardened, uncouth, uneducated, inarticulate, and ignorant individual, because that is how mainstream America thinks of us. When are we going to realize that arbitrary measures of one's Blackness is not what is important. Rather, we need to ask why do we still feel the need to validate ourselves in terms of "blackness".

Mr. Obama I highly respect and admire you. You can count on my vot e for you!

He's right!! Truthfully, it's not a question of skin color because appealing to one race means you can't to another regardless of your own color; you can find your own against you. The matter goes far beyond simple color lines.

I see nothing wrong for people to ask the "blackness" question. The question has not been asked enough, in my opinion. Race is at the core of the question, as it is at the core of American life. Denying the salience of race is colorbind and colorblindess is a form of racism. When you claim you don't see color, you don't see all the injustices and inequalities entangled with skin-color in this society. Then you likely perpetuate white supremacy which is still the norm of American politics. So, for those who are saying you are sick of the race question, you are at best naive and at worst deceptive.

It is very important for black people to ask if Obama is black enough. Some black folks' distrust of him may be due to internalized racism, as they may have accepted the degrading and stereotypical views of Black people imposed by White America. For them, Obama is too black and they want a more "qualified" White president.

On the other hand, for more educated and informed blacks, Obama is certainly not black enough. He doesn't have a root in black America. His prestigious upbringing has kept him away from the poor and working-class blacks as well as their struggles in America. So, when he denied the importance of skin color and race, he is showing his disconnection to his people and the contested history of racism and anti-racism.

I am African-American and I feel that our so-called "leaders" have sold us down the river on this one in their lack of support of Barack Obama.

Most of them are cutting backroom deals with the Clintons or are paying back for past ambassadorships, appointments, getting to sleep in the White House, etc.

They do not have the best interests of the BLACK PEOPLE in mind, and are only thinking of themselves.

How inspiring would it be to a black CHILD, to see an African American president with a strong marriage and strong family in the White House? It would make EACH child, of all races in this country know that we can ALL live up to our potential, and would motivate ALL of us to be our better selves.

I am so disappointed with our so-called "leaders" on this one. I don't know what to do.

Perhaps the meaning of "Black" in our popular culture doesn't just mean skin color? Perhaps in America it also partly means being the descendant of a slave. The fact that Obama isn't the direct descendant of a slave sets him apart from the norm of American "Black". It's not a bad thing and he has still lived his life as an African-American. It's just a subtle nuance that is important to some "Black" Americans.

Before this speech I thought the taxicab answer was the best Barrack could do, because this is a tricky issue and it's difficult for one person to characterize the cultural experience of another (what even is "black enough”). But, as usual, Obama has impressed me by seeing to the heart of what is behind these questions, that they are not about Barrack but rather reflect struggles of identity for an African American community that has faced so many challenges for so long. In answering if he is black enough, Obama showed us how ridiculous that question is in an election that should be asking if he is presidential enough, and in so doing, he answered us both.

Ronald,

I am an African-American who follows the 2008 political election trail closely. My definition of "blackness" has nothing to do with Obama's answer.

The identification of African Americanism follows an ancestral path from the original slaves shipped to this country. The historical denigration and debasement we have been exposed to is tied to that integral link of black slavery to the American economic system that was once race based (See also the writings of W.E.B. DuBois).

Remnants of black slavery associate the majority of American blacks to poverty. (See also the Moynihan Report.) For African Americans, then, the issue of "blackness" is one of authentic black experience of America's treatment of blacks from the time of their roots in this country.

Obama has no association with African Americans in this framework of blackness. That his features appear black most likely explain how he can empathize with black males. But that is as far as it goes. His socio-economic status and non-black American family upbringing separates him from African Americans that have lived or shared the black experience.

That said, I think I speak for authentic African Americans in saying that we are beyond the questioning of Obama's blackness. Once I realized that Obama and I do not share the same roots, it was apparent that I should not assume that he is aware of the core issues blacks face in this country. The core part being the root ties that were destructive and abominable at the outset.

I observe Obama as any another political candidate. His merits are judged in the same light as theirs. As such, I have little trust in what he utters. Like other candidates, he suffers from sidestepping issues when posed with poignant questions. Creative answers are not a replacement for get to the point responses.

Great answer to a question that proves to be insulting in nature. Obama continues to display maturity and courage in the political arena. He tells us what we need to hear, not what we want to hear. You are winning me over.

AS A WHITE MALE 60+ YRS OLD,I TOTALLY AGREE WITH OBAMA AS TO WHY BLACKNESS IS NOT IMPORTANT.DOES CONDELEESA RICE GO THRU THIS? SHOULD HE USE YO,HO ETC IN HIS DAILY SPEECH.THE FACT THAT HE IS EDUCATED, IS WHAT MAKES HIM HAVE TO PROVE HIS BLACKNESS.

The notion of Barack being "black enough" is preposterous. I am an Italian American, educated at a black college and operated a string of businesses for a Jewish family. What does that make me?

Obama has hit the nail on the head. Both black and white Americans need to kill the ego that feeds the fears and suspicions of colour and focus instead on the merits of ideas individuals put forth.

AMERICA IS NOT READY FOR A BLACK PRESIDENT NOR IS IT READY FOR A FEMALE PRESIDENT (ESPECIALLY IF BILL CLINTON IS FIRST LADY.)

If by "black enough" it means being in the same category as Al Sharpton and Jesse Jackson, then I sure hope Mr. Obama is NOT black enough!

The journalists who are trying to nail Obama about his "Blackness" should be ashamed of themselves! The criteria they are using to define this "Blackness" is the old (very old) deliniation of "Education". This implies that these journalists fully believe that their readership is still uneducated, which is far from the actual case, and are using their journalistic influence to send an unfortunately irresponsible message to their readers. Obama is strongly showing his "Black" leadership by displaying his level of competency and education, and leading by example, admirably I must say. These journalists should shed this ancient image gap, and get on with their jobs, namely reporting!

It is a shame that the media even has to mention that he is "black". It should not matter. The candidate's solutions to issues are the key questions. I am voting on experience. I hope the candidate I support selects Obama or Clinton has his running mate. I am not supporting either one for President but both would be excellent choices for vice-president and in 4 (or 8 years of my candidate leaves office, I would vote for either Clinton or Obama. Let me say again, America is READY for a "black" or "woman" to be president, just NOT the two current candidates. If I had to choice two people that I would support as a "black" or "woman" candidate it would be Colin Powell and Elizabeth Dole. (and I tend to support Democratic candidates, but I based my vote on experience and appeal to the public and BOTH of those people have that quality about them.
Media people.... Here is a challenge. Answer the question that Obama asked?

The media keeps inflating Obama. it is not because he is whatever color he is, it is because it is obvious that he lacks experience. The reason that the media keeps inflating Obama is that they hope that he gets the nomination so that the Republican party can tear him apart.

He hit it on the head!!! People constantly say we arent racist and America needs to put the race factor behind them. The same people then turn around and ask, "is he black enough?" The first step to over coming this is to cancel out the black/ white issue and to ask is he American enough. Which I believe with his stated sentiments that he truely is. What exactly are they looking for when they ask him that? Is it that he doesnt use the phrase "dog" or does he participate in qwanza, what type of chicken does he eat? This isnt the issue of the American president... from what ive understood... he has over come more obsticles about his religious faith than his race... why cant people cheer him on as a forerunner rather than the first black president... congradulations in coming so far.. your political record and personality have brought you thus far... this is the american presidential race.. not the black finally beats white or the girls finally beat the boys race... maybe its time for a little out of the ordinary physically... but as long as the mentals are there... then great... we have a great candidate to be the new president!!!! n if i were a dem.. i'd say.. could he be much worse than we've seen in the past!?

Thank goodness he finally hopefully shut them up.

I am a white man 63 years old so don't say I'm partial about anyone. I am a Republican but will vote for Mr. Obama If I can.

Thank you Roland! So awesome to hear you and Obama and others wondering why people keep asking that. It's like they can't think of anything else to say or ask. Enough with the color talk! The constant questions about color have a tendency to reduce his achievements and character to just "a color". It's an embarassing part of our society and reporters should be ashamed for approaching him that way. I'm glad he's beginning to respond to "Are you black enough?" by saying "What does that mean?" and how about if we just say "I'm human enough" and please start recognizing all that I am. Time for people to grow up. Let's take a quantum leap

Why is color still an issue in this country? Is he American enough? All this African American crap gets old. Most have never been to Africa. You are either American or not.

A candidate that with dignity who doesn't let the media dumb down the discussion. He's certainly bright enough to be president.

Why does it always have to be about race, color and gender? None of these should matter when you judge someone. You judge people based on their actions. From what I can tell, Mr. Obama has done a good job. How many politicians running for president are still fully engaged in their current jobs. He seems to be the only one. Hilary has been working on her president run for years now. She should be paying New York state back the money they pay her to be in Washington.

Being a black father of two black inter-racial children. My children are black enough and they have the understanding of two different cultures. They can see the white side and the black side of a problem. This lack of trust is taught to our children by there parents or elders. They were not born this way. Senator Obama is black enough and the question as a whole shows that the black community still has a problem with inter-racial children. The man should be judged on his record not on the race of his parents

There simply is no way to reach common ground between the raecs. Obama is seen as black by whites, and that is why he is doomed, period.

Well stated Obama. Race is such an insignificant factor. Like Bob Marley said," until the color of a man's skin is of no more significance than the color of his eyes; that until the basic human rights equally guaranteed to all without regard to race: that until that day, the dream of lasting peace and world citizenship and the rule of international morality will remain but a fleeting illusion, to be pursued but never attained." Basically, America is rich with so much culture yet we continue to distance ourselves from each other and that hurts each side more than many of us think. I haven't find a candidate that I want to vote for yet, but Obama is slowly becoming my top pick.

If he's going to use it as an asset, then he needs to answer to charges from the black community that he's "not black enough." If it's a non issue (I don't see how it can be; would Hillary not use the fact that she's a woman to her advantage when courting female voters?) then yes, the questions are unwarranted. Oh, and, I'm black.

Obama is absolutely correct.
There is an inherent self hatred that permeates the "soul" of black america.
It "clouds" the view of anything and everything ,they process, as it relates to other blacks.
It is not a new reality, but a time tested treatise on how effective the "programming" ,put forth by the slave owner, has unfolded and endured.
Black america must develop a vision that supersedes it's self hatred.
"Where there is no vision, their will be reactive patterns". Ron Norwood

The question about whether or not Obama is "black enough" is ridiculous and its disgusting. Unfortunately for probably many reasons Black America has posed this question to the candidate– not other types of Americans. Black Americans or African Americans (as I am) should be supportive of their own and if they have valid reason to not support a candidate it should not be because they are not "black enough". No matter how light or dark you are or how educated or not - you are always Black. Lately it seems that class and money may have a greater ability to seperate or make life easier but that's another issue. Of all the issues that affect this country and "mini" groups that make up this country... Barack Obama's blackness should not be one of them. Its sad– we're prejudiced against our own kind. The man is brilliant and because of our own issues some have failed or have trouble seeing that.

Obama grew up in Hawaii from the age of 10 through high school with people of many colors, but relatively few blacks.
In Hawaii, folks from different cultures collide, and you learn to live together however imperfect.
Obama learned race relations without it being a black and white issue.
Obama's color is not as important as his early childhood lessons on a multicultural community.

I Think that Barack Is absolutly Right, why dont we trust ourself??why dont we trust Each other??we should start believe in ourselves and believe that We can make and stop believing/thinking that we cant make it because others will not let us make it!!!!!!!!And we Should grow bigger than the color of our skin, Folks we are bigger and greater than our skin color suggest, no matter what color you are, lets stop limiting our thought and Thinking in the color of our skin, let's Grow bigger than that, and If sobody wanne keep thinking like that...than let him do and move ahead, remember we are bigger and greather than that!!!!!

I believe Barack Obama get these questions about his blackness because he has never given the appropriate answer when these journalists ask this ridiculous question. From time to time I have watched him make a jokes about it, which suggest he is not prepared or is tired of the question. I am happy to see he has given a clear answer as he has done today. I believe this maybe his checkmate end all answer to this ridiculous question. I am a 45 year old black man that has watched this man speak and you can here his compassion for all people.It seems obvious that his integrity, morality, and wits preceeds him.

JKN

Great job, Senator Obama! It's about time we begin focusing on the larger issues that truly affect our community. You've got my vote.

"Black" is a nisnomer.The Moors interbreed in Spain; the Snanish Armada crased on the shores of Ireland and the African blood line was intertwined with the Irish(Black Irish); Brazil is amass with Portuguese intertwine. I could go on and on. Time to get off the "rusty railroad" of whose Black and who isn't. The " melting pot" is fast at work...thank God!

Thank you for your reporting of the facts. I'm a 70 year old white male Republican from Upstate N.Y. Senator Obama represents a vision of a hope to ALL Americans, a hope that we as a nation have come of age. I believe he can show the world by his example that America is truly the land of the free. To me he's an American first who is of color and there are no buts about it. Well maybe from butt heads of ALL colors.

I am a 48 year old white male, and I believe he hit the nail on the head, The majority of the black community has almost always not trusted black politicians as they view them as selling out to whitie. Its kind of funny he will probably get 50% of the black voters who will vote for him just because he's black no matter what he stands for and he will not get the other 50% of the black vote because he is black.

The bottom line is one's skin color has nothing to do with one's ability to do anything. The inherent qualities a person possess, be them for leadership, athletics, academic, music, theater, business, etc. have never been dependent upon heritage.

What matters in the case of Mr. Obama, is his ability to lead our country.

I THINK HE HIT THE NAIL ON THE HEAD
WE AS BLACK AMERICAN SHOULD STOP DOING
THIS AND LISTEN TO WHAT THE MAN STAYS FOR NOT IS HE BLACK ENOUGH. IT'S NOT ARE WE READY FOR A BLACK PRESIDENT BUT ARE WE READY FOR THIS MAN TO BE THE NEXT PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES.

Although this is a dubious question. Of all the candidates running, I believe Barack Obama is the singular person "Black Enough". I think the socratic question ought to be, are all the other candidates black enough?? Is Oprah Winfrey? Tiger Woods, Colin Powell, Toni Morrison, Maya Angelou,Wynton Marsalis, Dr. Cornel West? was August Wilson, Ralph Bunche, Jackie Robinson and Fannie Lou Hamer. And to paraphrase Ms Hamer, I'm sick and tired of this question.

We look at a candidate as a possible future leader of our nation. In this day and age, I would hope to think that race and gender should be the last item on any political agendas. Instead, a strong leader with a track record for continuously bettering him/her self should be what the people in this country should focus on. From what I've seen, Senators Clinton and Obama are the best hope the democrats have, and the better hope our country needs! They represent the changes that is due this country, the vision our nation needs to move back towards the super power we once was known and respected for and the drive and determination needed in a leadership position.

I'm white and I think Obama is the best man for the job.

People keep talking about his "blackness" because they're trying to sell news with controversy.

And the public is buying it.

Most Americans don't learn about the candidates or do the research to determine which ones will best represent them. Most Americans follow the sparkle and shine of candidates, the superficial surface.

Remember W? He looked really good on paper.

We, as Blacks, are not monolithic. Has Obama made his positions clear? If so, judge him according to that information and make your decision. It's as simple as that.

I couldn't agree more with Obama, the black community should unite around this brilliant man, but instead they become their own worst enemy by mistrusting him!! Obama is brilliant no matter what color he is, and he has my vote!!!

If you talk about skin color, Obama is brown not black. If you talk about race, Obama is of mixed race. His mother is a white lady from the Midwest and his father is Kenyan. That makes him half black, half white. It you are perplexed as to why he is always branded as black, it is because whites don't want to have anything to do with someone with a drop of black in their veins.

Barack Obama is an intelligent, experienced, charismatic man and is,in my opinion, uniquely qualified to lead this country and put an end to the devisiveness that stops us from being a better America. He is refreshingly candid, does not speak "politics", but rather speaks from the heart.

Anyone who claims he is inexperienced to run this country can only mean that he is not politically savvy (thank goodness!) because he is a man who can make a difference.

He certainly will have my vote.

Amen Obama. No one's asking if Hilary's woman enough or if Romney is white enough.

As long as the press keeps writing "The first black mayor" or "The first black astronaut" or "The first black whatever" we will never get by the division of races. How about "Mayor" or "Astronaut"?
Give us a break out here, we will work it out! Quit with the distinctions already! We can't move forward as long as the press keeps reminding us that we are black or white or brown or whatever.

I used to support John Edwards, but Obama might've just won my vote.

Maybe a little innocence, a little hope, might be right for the White House.

I think Mr. Obama is right on with this statement/observation. Black America must look at his possition on the issues and realize that, We as a people, have finally arrived through Mr. Obama and can stand firm supporting him and his campaign with pride. It is time....It is time....

I have a bigger question than whether or not Obama black enough. Why is it that the black community as whole wants racial equality (which any non-redneck)) would agree with, but then they turn around and even within their own ranks promote racial segregation. Is Obama black enough??? It's ridiculous and as racist as you can get. He's a politician, his color had no relevance. We all know that most republicans vote for the republican candidate and the same goes for democrats...but at least that is still basically a political decision. Voting for the black candidate simply because of the color of his skin drills down to the heart of the matter. That is the damage the black communtiy does to itself by bringing these topics into the headlines. Could you imagine if the title of the article would have been "Is Giuliana white enough"? It would never happen...because its ridiculous. I'm white..and I might very well vote for Mr. Obama...and to Mr. Obama I hope that doesn't hurt your polling numbers within the black community. This article is ridiculous and both you the writer and the black community as a whole HAVE TO BE ABLE TO REALIZE THAT, don't you?

black american needs to understand that you can't judge a book by it's cover. His only job if he is elected to the white house is to represent the citizens of the UNITED STATES OF AMERICA, there is no black white latinos gay straitght written in the consitution , his decisions are based only for the welfare of our great nation not just but race or background. So the misconception of having a black president in the white just to break the color barrier is the worst thought and any american weather black or orange. If it was for that Mr Obama might as well be a poster child for the black community if it gets the that point.

I think that the question that is posed has to be be challenged even further. The is no one Black America and to suggest that there is is short sighted. I think that the question is intended to serve as a distraction. It feeds into the White agenda and there are too many Blacks that have been duped into believing the hype. Cornell West's comments will continue to plague Obama's candidacy, even though Cornell has now declared his support. The Jesse Jacksons and Al Sharptons of the U.S. haven't asked me what I think and I'm part of "Black America".

I think this screams of ignorance and continues to perpetuate the great divide in the US between black and white. The question should not be and should never be whether or not he's black enough, white enough, green enough, etc... it should ALWAYS boil down to this - is he American enough - can he represent Americans well? Elections should be down in sillouette to avoid this ridiculous notion that your race somehow impacts your likeability. Wake up America!

I congratulate Mr. Obama for taking a stand against this question. Journalists who continuously address this issue of blackness cast a negative influence on his campaign and ignore the progressive changes that have been taken in our countrie's hisrory. I, as a Black American, am embarassed for those who need to be reassured time and again.

I think someone should forward this link to the NABJ because many people in America seem to be sating "Yes we are ready. That was and still is an irrelevant question."

My eyes see that Obama is black, but what does that really matter. I'm going to vote for the candidate that shows me he/she stands for what I believe America should be. Period.

I don't care if a candidate is a female black homosexual in a wheelchair if that person can lead me to believe for one instant that their leadership might make be proud to be an American. It's not your struggles and injustices that make you a great leader, but the character you build upon them.

I thought people didn't want to be judged by the color of their skin, but by the content of their character. Isn't that the dream? Why now do you ask if Obama is black enough. I say, ask if his character is strong enough. He stands or falls on that, and that alone.

Black, red, yellow, or green, we are just not ready for Obama

I don't think the question of Obama's level of "blackness" is a relevant matter for discussion in a Presidential election. I would rather hear questions raised about his experience, qualifications and views on important issues affecting America today.

While the issue of race does have heavy social connotations I feel it is incorrect to say that asking if Senator Obama is "black enough" truly is about this issue. These questions aren't being asked about Barrack's ability to represent the poor white citizens.
I have been a fan of Senator Obama for a few years now, and while I am not an American citizen I have been incredibly pleased with his performance to date.

It's okay to ask questions about race, but to continue to ask the same questions over and over again belies the superficiality of the questioners. Superficial means "on the surface." A man's skin is only on the surface. The content of the man's heart and mind are what the questions should be about. Let's get beneath the surface already!

I've read Mr. Obama's book, The Audacity of Hope, and I trust his intellect, his motives and his abilities. I'm ready to vote for the man.

Barack Obama is downright FASCINATING to watch as this race continues.The greatest thing about Obama is that he is just a good man.He has dedicated his life to honest,meaningful purposes and to me is a modern day Linconesque politician,with the ability to do revolutionary things for this country.His eloquence and knowledge of the constitution dwarfs that of the lifelong politicians he is running against

I believe that America needs to wake up. it is not time for us to sleep in the issue of blakness. but instead a time for change.

He is correct! He is smart! He is candid! I like all that!
Mike

I think Sen. Obama did nail it. Whether scripted or impromptu, his message is dead center on the mark. Black, white, red or blue, it is not about color. What a person can accomplish with integrity and leadership is key and it is time we get someone with both. Perhaps it is Sen. Obama. Color does not make a man; a man makes himself.

Good for him! I am not black, I am a female Puerto Rican...and I say enough is enough with the question! When is America going to get it? All of our president's have been white males and let's ask ourselves, "Did that fact make them great presidents?" and "Are we willing to pass on candidates that are qualified to lead this nation on the pure basis of their race and gender? Obama is educated, calm, peaceful, humble and aware of what needs to be done. Not having the same length of time of experience or number of offices held as some of the other candidates does not make him less qualified...this a lot of our former (and present) leaders have had tons of experience...apparently this did not become a factor in the actual running of the presidency..The same for Hillary...if she were a man she would be leading Democrats and the Republican candidates in the polls...grow up America we are not a nation of white males!

Integrity? Barack's got it! Doesn't matter what color, or religious denomination, or sexual orientation...outstanding character attributes can't be defined by small minded bigots and religious extremists (not even by Scripturally "selective" lunatics sorting out their brothers and sisters...as if they could!)...and then there is the business about him having a brilliant mind and a fresh, wholesome, point-of-view.

If we can talk about the person's credential rather than their color, then as a whole we have moved forward in civil liberty. However, those who seem to want to move forward are often times the ones the hold themselves back by not being able to see the future but rather living in the past.

Race and gender should not be factors when selecting a President or employee or friend.

Mr. Obama should be elected on WHO he is, not the color of his skin. After all, his mother was white so what's the big ruckus? He's a good guy. I'm white. I'm a registered Republican. But I'm going to vote for him anyway...not because of the outside, but because of the inside.

I don't know yet if I'll vote for Sen Obama, but I do like some of his policy statements. I think the fact that blacks keep asking this "black enough" question betrays a form of racism on the part of those who ask the question. They seem not to be able to break away from the belief that a Presidential election is ultimately about who can do the most for the black population. The good of the entire country seems to pale in comparison to their racist position. When will we grow past such questions and choose the President based on their policies and character versus the color of their skin?

I watched the Presidential "debate" on LOGO. Obama prefaced the answer to the first question with "growing up black with a name like Barak Obama....." Perhaps when he drops the black thing, then everyone else will as well. He can't use it when it's to his advantage and not use it when he doesn't like the context.

Barack Obama is black? Ohmygawd! What color are the rest of them?

What color is George Bush, the worst president in history?

It's 2007. When are we going to stop talking about race? No wonder schools in other countries are doing better than ours. While we're talking about race relations they're discussing the three r's.

We're all HUMAN so let's focus on the good on the country.

Personally, I'm not happy with any of the candidates. They're more focused on telling us what people want to hear – by promising "free" stuff.

Have any of you that have posted here looked up this mans background? Who his parents are? Where this man went to school? Maybe you should, it is an eye opening experience. This man is Muslim and was raised up to be a "Radical Muslim". What has Osama Bin Laden always spoken? He has always said we (Radical Muslims) will rip America apart from the inside out and from the very top. You bleeding heart liberals or whatever you call yourselves need to desperately research this possible future president. This very scary for our country. Do your research on Osama and Obama.

What annnoys me about the question is that it assumes there is some essential, absolute standard for blackness that all black people meet. I'm black. I'm black but would someone please articulate it for me? There are as many ways to be "Black" as there are black people. What is more likely, is that this conversation is code for CLASS differences.

In the movie "Guess Who's Coming to Dinner" Sydney Poitier said to his father, "That's the difference between you and me; you're a black man, I'm a man."

I agree 100% with Obama on this. I am a white Republican and I know that I will not be voting for Obama, but I agree with him on this in all sincerity. Why can't we just get beyond the color issue? The media has created the "black enough" issue as they create most issues. This is why the average person avoids participation in politics. It is the juvenile and immature media games that turns people off. It reminds me of the Michael Vick situation. The media has been trying to make it a black vs. white issue. I hope they don’t succeed. It is an issue of right and wrong, innocent until proven guilty -not a racial issue. Again, excellent answer by Obama. I wish him all the best and God bless him and God bless America.

A brilliant response, sparkling with economy and preciseness. Obama may be naive about foreign relations, but he is right on the target about the role of the press – which is not to act like undergraduates but to lead discussions into the real issues that face society.

I am a white independent. I don't support Obama for President because I disagree with his stance on several issues I consider of fundamental importance. Yet at the same time, I recognize that he is an impressive candidate– intelligent, honorable, consistent, bold, and remarkably insightful. He also appears to have a genuine dedication to the poor and marginalized, and to the equally antique notion of leadership as service.

"Is America ready for a black President?" "Is Obama black enough?" and most of the other race-related questions fed the electorate seem distributed in roughly equal proportion among the ridiculous, the trivializing, and the prurient, with a common denominator of superfluousness.

What has he done? What will he do? What does he think? Honest and thorough attention to these questions– for Obama and for all the candidates– should provide political journalists with an ample To-Do list. Aren't these the questions that matter?

Black America should be asking the same question as White America and every other America: Not whether he is black enough, but whether he is good enough.

It's not a question of is he black enough? The real question should always be with any presidential candidate is this: is he qualified? In my opinion, I think that he is very well qualified to lead this nation as President. You could ask Hillary Clinton does she think the country is ready for a female President? I think that she would probably say that it is long overdue. Obama should be judged based upon the content of his character not color of his skin. This is what we all should be striving for in this nation. Whether we are white, black, brown, yellow, male or female should be irrelevant when it comes to wanting to assume the presidency. Color is like beauty, is only skin deep.

The Senator is correct on all accounts. A lot of black and white folks risk their lives for all Americans to get the best education possible, the opportunity to reach their goals and live their American Dream. We used to celebrate in the Black community when someone achieved success. Now success brings out suspicion, jealousy and envy. Until Black people stop judging themselves by the lowest common denominator, a highly educated, brilliant, eloquent, hardworking, spiritual and compassionate Black man or woman has no chance to be president. If we don’t believe that subjecting Senator Obama with this inane question is not a lowest common denominator then we have failed our children and our ancestors.

How do you measure enough?

Only an ignorant person would have to ask a question like that. I am sure, when our president is elect regardless, of race he will have to deal with problems of all races. We have become a nation of labeling. I am sure when President Bush was addressing a Convention of professionals the question never came up “Are you white enough or are you intelligent enough?” Does anyone ask Sen. Clinton are you feminine enough or forgiving enough?” What about the black soldiers that are giving their lives to protect this country, “Are they black enough?” The only question Sen. Barack Obama should be asked is “What qualifies you to be president of the United States and how will you support the American people?”

"Obama’s blackness has come up plenty of times before." Is this really a word and should you use it to describe Obama?

Being an Obama supporter I applaud Obama's response. I ask black people that I have discussed the presidential race with if they are voting for Senator Obama. They invariably say no which I find puzzleling. They say he can't be elected due to his color. Well if he can't get the support of black people it could be a battle, but maybe not since so many don't vote anyway. Shameful since so many gave up so much to get the right to vote. People he's saying what I hope can be the change we so badly need.

I am puzzled about the same thing about people in America. Unfortunately here is the bottom line about this situation. People still only see a black man first, and not a qualified Presidential candidate. Another sad point to bring up is that if you can find black Americans that actually will vote, they will cast a vote for someone white instead of sticking with someone that has had the same struggles in life they have had. Ironic no?

i am glad to see obama answer the "black" question so well. i am tired of this talk of color. who the hell should care what color a person is, the person lies inside. anyone who still talks color hasn't allowed themselves to rise to a level of intelligence. that level of intelligence acknowledges that we are all human beings. get out of the gutter everyone and start looking at the candidates themselves and help find one that can lead this country back to the strength we once had.

I for one am sick of the race issue being played over and over and over, in just about every aspect of politics, sports, etc etc. I am whie and if I feel Senator Obama is qualified to be president, he will get my vote; I don't care if he is black, whote, pink, blue, polka dot, etc. JUST GET ME A QUALIFIED person for president, something we have not had for 8 LONG YEARS!!!

Speaking as an black man; this immature question is so appalling and degrading. Hopefully Mr. Obama does not feel compelled to answer such juvenile quetions in the future.

Many people have questions regarding if Senator Obama is "black enough" and it is a shame. The man dedicated himself to helping poor blacks while working as a commnity orgainzer. For many of you who are unaware you are not paid for that job. We as black people need to stop feeling inferior, for centuries we were told that we could never achieve anything and now that a real AFRICAN has a legtimate chance of becoming the president we wonder if he is black enough. I bet if he went to Grambling not Columbia, Howard not Harvard then he would be black enough. My people lets get real if you could send your child to an Ivy League school you would. Last but certainly not least his wife is also black, if she was white then it would be no use for the question "Is he black enough?"

It's amazing how media can perpetuate the color issue. As a caucasian, I don't see Obama for his color at all. It's about issues at hand, period. His answer couldn't have been stated any better. In response to another comment, Obama has come from an extremely impoverished background. He has focused on improving conditions with underserved/underprivlaged populations. I strongly doubt that he would loose sight of this as President. In addition to Clinton and Obama, I'd also like to see more people making it to the final election.

Sen Obama made a very good point and the answer is actually very simple, but hard to solve. Self hate! Basically, when a black person achieves a certain level economic success, some in the black community question their methods and if that person has the interest of the black community at heart. Thus, mistrust is established. Now, take Sen Obama who can not just speak to the black community, but all Americans. He has to consider the poor whites, Hispanics, foreign policies, as well as the black community. Unfortunately, concentration has been placed on having the first black president or the first woman president instead on whether or not one of them can actually run the country. Therefore, some important questions are not being asked.

Senator Obama always impresses me with his ability to deepen the conversation, to go beyond the tired, repetitive arguments and find what is really at the core of the issue.

It's an intelligent comment (and challenge) from an intelligent man...something that has been in short supply in politics for quite some time. It's refreshing, and I'm hoping it doesn't just go over the heads of so many who are too lazy to want to think very hard about anything.

The day I saw Barack Obama deliver his speech at the Democratic National Convention, I said to myself "I want this man as my president". I was that impressed from day one. And not ONE time since then have I asked myself "Do I really want a black president?".

It just DOESN'T MATTER. I'm sure there are some that it matters to... but not to me. And not to anyone else I know who likes him. Even people that aren't going to vote for him explain the reasons... "He hasn't really given me his stand on x...".

Not ONCE has anybody I speak to said "I'm not sure we're ready for a black president".

The media of this country are attempting to sensationalize something that's not sensational – yeah, it's great to have a strong candidate running who's black... but Jessie Jackson ran before. And we didn't have this sort of debate then.

What's "black enough" anyway? I know he's intelligent enough, strong enough, liked enough, respected enough. Isn't that enough?

I think Obama's response was on the money. His essential response was 'it's your problem not mine.'

Sen. Barack Obama is truly a black if you permit me to use that word instead of African American. The basic suspicion of his kit and kin regarding his black-enoughness has to do with the mind, not the head. When I was in America, some of my white friends told me I was not African; why? I asked. They said I was intelligent and honest. I told them they were insulting me. Because I knew and still know that there are many intelligent and honest men and women in Africa.

Labels are a dangerous thing. By calling him black, you deny his ability to relate to white people (does everyone forget he is half white)? By calling him a man, does he then not have compassion for his wife and daughters?
It always kind of torks me off that people have to get hung up on even one of the "labels" that truly is just one of the total sum of somones parts.
Let go of the labels and allow him to be judged for the content of his character. why does that sound familiar?

When fellow African-Americans ask if Professor Obama is “Black” enough they are referring to shared cultural values. So, the question is, does Mr. Obama share the values of the Black community? What are the shared values of the Black community and are they unified? Maybe that is the underlining question Black Leaders are truly analyzing. Can Mr. Obama lead us and where will he take us?

Yep, Obama nailed it for certain.

I couldn't agree more with Bill Stade, who commented above; the appropriate question to ask–and one that I think is completely legitimate, whereas the "black enough" question carries little meaning–is the extent to which Obama would balance his use of the power and privilege of the Oval Office with his concern for the traditionally underserved of America.

I found the very question of "is Obama black enough" very offensive, not to mention racist.

I wouldn't care if Mr. Obama skin colour was orange with green stripes. The man speaks well & has the basic grasp of what we are looking for in a leader. My only hope is that Mr. Obama lives up to the potential I see in him. We cannot have another 4-8 yrs similar to what we are experiencing at this time. Please people, if we get this election wrong we will have no one but ourselves to blame.

I am a 34 year old white male who graduated from a majority black inner city high school. I have never been to college but instead served 2 1/2 years in the Army. I have doen quite well for myself being self employed and an outside consultant. This being said I think Senator Obama should be the next President of these United States. I have felt this way since I saw him speak for the first time at the Democratic National Convention several years ago. My God what a speach, it left tingles going down my spine. I would vote and respect this man as President over any candidate out there. He should not be fighting questions over this obsurd issue, "Black Enough". The question should be, "Is the African-American community black enough to stand beside him?" This man has spent his life educating himself and others, obtaining goals set for himself and it seems to me most importantly taking care of his responsibilties, his family. His seems to live his life with integrity and honor, a rare thing in our society anymore. So all of you who persist on asking this question, you tell me why a black parent would not want everyone of their children to grow up to be black enough to stand beside Barack Obama. I support you sir, Mr. Obama, and would put my uniform on any time to serve under your command. It would be a great honor in a time I see as a great disgrace. Always support the troops, no matter how you feel about the war remember, those men and women serve our nation out of choice. They live and breath to protect us and it is a disgrace when they are sent to places to serve personal needs, but that is a story for another time. If you read this Senator Obama and you are ever in Harrisburg Pa. I would be honored to host you and show you our community.

America, this is the man. This is it for us. This is our chance to be great again. In the best way. He's our man. All you have to do is listen to him. Just listen. This is it. I can feel it. Can you feel it. Stop trying to ruin it with this "black enough" crap. It's means absolutly NOTHING! Black, white, red, yellow and green, this is our guy. If we screw this up, we're screwed. People want Hillary because of her husband. That's not enough for me. I demand better. I expect the best for us. Don't you?

Mr. Obama nailed it!

I think Obama's response to the
Black Journalist was right on the
mark.

I think that for fairness and for the advancement of the conversation, we should ask every candidate in either party if they are black enough.

I've only lived in Detroit a few years and have found that prejudice is thriving in blacks against whites (and blacks who in any way "act white" by associating with whites, being successful) in this town and in many others, I'm sure. Obama hit the nail on the head. He earned my vote months ago, and everything I continue to hear from him continues to impress me. Frankly, I don't see black and white until it's shoved in my face over and over again by the media. I see a person by their intelligence and abilities, not by the color of their skin. It's a shame the media can't find another story to focus on rather than race in their efforts to "make a buck" and sensationalize only one side of a story.

The question of race was an important one even though many think it should not have been asked, however, how many African American presidents have we had in the past?

At some point in time it will be realized by all that it is not the color thats important....it's the behavior! That is the problem to address.

The question of whether Obama is "black enough" is insulting and self-defeating (I'm white). The real question is the obvious one, and that's whether he has the experience to be an effective president. Who are we kidding? Obama's good sense and openness, his approachability and frank, unpackaged informal talk is shows an intelligence and knowledge so far superior to what we have gotten from Bush that it's laughable. Get some perspective, folks! (and I'm a Clinton/Edwards supporter).

This was a great read. I am not totally sure where I stand as far as supporting a candidate, Republican or Democrat, but, Barack Obama is definitely a person I would consider. Regardless of skin color, character/integrity, openness, and honesty are the qualities that I look for in a leader. He seems to posess all of them. This should be an interesting election.

I agree. Enough of blackness. I am a proud American; born, rised, and educated in the great U S of A. I am of Hispanic descent and because of the color of my skin, I am a Mexican. Why? All the white skin races that come to America become Americans unconditionally. But Blacks and Brown skin people or never truly accepted as true Americans. Enough of Blackness. Enough of skin color. STOP THE PREJUDICE AND DISCRIMINATION. THE PROBLEM LIES WITHIN OUR SELF.

The long slow creaking wheels of our divided America keeps grinding along.
Give a suitable, qualified candidate his/her due, and as it should be, make your voting choices based on the issues, and the person who might best address them .
Mr. Obama is a presidential candidate for ALL America, lets pick up the pace and make a sincere effort to move past our gender/ race narrow mindedness.

To Senator Obama. I don't agree with where you stand politically but you are the man! As a black man and Republican I have always wondered why the black community would question the "blackness" of certain leaders. They never question Jesse Jackson, Julian Bond or other civil rights activist. However, when a black leader arrives and does not fit the stereotypical black politician, their ethnicity is in question. Many blacks had the same opinion of myself while getting my engineering degree. They felt that I was getting a white man's degree and not one real blacks should pursue. Of course like Senator Obama I rejected those misplaced opinions.
So Seanator Obama, I may not vote for you but I have a huge amount of respect for you.

Most of these responces praise Obama's responce, and I agree that it was perfect. Also many of the people responding say that race plays an issue but also, there is millions of other people in the country that might not over look his race, such as some in the "Bible Belt" area...

i love Obama!! He is the essence of a true leader-

Is Hillary woman enough? White enough? It goes both ways, who cares if they are green or orange? We need someone to uplift this country, get out in the streets, and battle the real issues. I don't want someone who sits in a nice big fancy "white" house and helps every other country but his/her own!

I'll be honest- I don't like Obama's politics. I have always questined though, why his heritage was such an issue. Black or white, male or female, the issue is the ideas, not the color or gender.

Senator Obama is correct in the comments that he made. I have often seen and witnessed what he is talking about. It seems to me that a lot of blacks in america don't really like to see another black male or female do well. If you're educated,make a lot of money then your labelled as conceded, if you live in a mostly white upper class city your suspected of thinking your to good to live in a all black or mostly black city. We as African American have a state of mind that if we are not doing well then we're going to pull at the leg of another black american to either stop his/her accent to the upper tier of whatever field they are in. To sum itup we sometime act like crabs always trying to pull the crab that's on top back down and stoping their upward movement.Let unite to support and enable all american to be able to do their best and make a country without division and strive to be number one in everything that we do regardless of race. Senator Obama will be either the next President or the Vice President of the United States. and Eventually the President. So let's buildup him up.

He is an American and no intelligent person cares if he has a sun tan or not. The question is can he lead us back to the good old honest American ways. Tom Alan Greenawalt; Decatur, IL USA

Sen Obama’s response to the race issue(s) question is on target and reinforces my basic belief that Sen Obama can address disparity issues that exists in America (USA) today – race, upper class, middle class, poor. Basically the differences between the “haves” and the “have not’s”. I truly wish for Sen Obama to excel in his being a role model to all Americans – a task he has proven he can do well.

If Sen Obama is to continue a race issue dialog then may I suggest he talk about how the good old boy (white) Republican establishment has set up the “have not’s” to fight a war for which the “haves” have very little participation.

I also think Obama nailed it. For some in this country you’re not “authentically” black if certain qualifiers (poor grammar, a love of hip-hop, foolish/aggressive behavior, etc) don’t exist in your resume and that’s utterly ridicules! Obama is intelligent, articulate, genuine, etc and great candidate for president no matter his race. If race is an issue for Black America then this man and others like him (Colin Powell, JC Watts, Harold Ford Jr., John McWhorter) are the role models we need and never ever, ever, ever men like Jessie or Al.

To begin with, Ombama is not "black." He's mixed race, as is my son. Why are some blacks insisting that he focus on that part of his heritage? Whites don't ask if he's "white enough." I've not heard one comment about why he's positioned to deny his white heritage. Tiger Woods has steadfastly described himself as mixed race and the millions of other mixed race Americans thank him!

I'm black and for people to ask this dumb question is ridiculous.

There is still a deeper more important question than whether or not Obama is "Black Engough". Racialized terms hide underlying cultural and heritage relations. Mr. Obama's connection to America is through his Euro-American mother. We, African Americans are more than the sum total of the oppression that has been heaped upon us over the years. Many of us perceive ourselves as an ethnic group. The labeling of "African American" is broader than how the term is used in practice. While a Korean American and an Chinese American may both be called Asian American, a Korean American is not a Chinese American – no matter how tirelessly such Korean American works for the betterment of the Chinese American community. In that same vein Obama is African American in the general sense, but there is an underlying ethnic group to which he does not belong. But none of this should add or detract from your support of him. Let him stand on your preception of his ability to lead this nation in the direction you would like to see.

Obama should not have to deal with the black enough question, like Hilary should not have to deal with is this country ready for a female leader. Times have changed, the status quo of rich white man has changed, lets move forward and simply look at them as American Citizens wishing to lead this country into a new era, race, gender, and religion have little place in politics.

While the question "are you black enough" is being interpreted different ways by different groups or individuals, I think Barack Obama answered the question tactfully and appropriatly fitting for a potential candidate for office.

Barack and Hillary are both in the unique spot of their own respectively. The question remains, even with the qualifications of each of these candidates, is America ready for its first non-white, female or male president?

Historically, it hasn't happened, so naturally there is going to be concern about these candidates not fitting the typical outward appearances of past presidents.

I believe being non-white or female DOES impact some peoples voting choice either for or against to various degrees.

Hopefully we can see some diversity in our line of presidents, but it shouldn't be the motivating factor to vote one way or another. I am hopeful for that day.

I am glad Senator Obama finally hit the nail at the head like he is always used to doing. Blacks have been put at the backseat for too long that many now believe the lie that they rightly belong at the backstage. That is a big lie that they need to vehemently reject, otherwise, the white folks will always be happy to reap from their timidity and lack of self worth. Blacks should give the erudite senator answers as this will clear the air on where they stand in American polity.

Roland, I am so amazed by this discussion. Some of these comments, I agree with and some I do not. The real question I would like answered is why no one questions if Hilary Clinton is "black" enough. As an African American community somehow we have appropriated white politicians into blackness which is really bizarre to me. In response to a few comments in this blog, why are we not questioning Clinton's pseudo-love of all things black and her constant vying for the black vote. How well will other Democratic candidates deal with those in a lower socioeconomic bracket? Why is Obama held to this standard to which we refuse to hold other candidates?

Obama should address the issue of being black enough...personally, I believe that he is not. My concern is that if he is elected, prejudice white folk will lay claim to the fact that he has a white mother and it is the reason that his election. It is a simple matter, but it has merit. On the other hand, I do not believe that black or white, he has the experience or expertise to run this country as president. I would rather see him spend time in the Senate, gain experience on foreign affairs and run in eight years. The alternative is for him to be vice president and go from there. Speaking as a black man and Christian, I am more interested in his response to having a mom who was a devote atheist and how that affected his life as a child and more importantly, how does it shape his opinions and beliefs today?

Roland,

This is something we need to discuss. As you go deeper, you see it is about Black self hate. We do not love ourselves. We have an inferiority complex. We as Black people hate our hair, skin color, our lips and the poverty in our neighborhoods. So whenever we experience something different than the things we hate, we love it and hate it at the same time. So if you are Black but do not have traditional Black features and/or you are successful and have a life different than the majority of poor blacks, people sometimes question your blackness and we even question if we are good enough for the quality life. So the real question is: Does Black America feel worthy of having a Black President? Would Black America prefer a Black President or a White President? What does it mean to the masses of Black Americans to see so many successful Black Americans? I think folk would rather call the successful Black an "Uncle Tom" than to deal with their own lack of success in this world.

I think Proffesor Obama's response was very fitting to a question that should be non-exsistant. In my opinion this country is ready for a black or female president....but I must say, fight on Sir, fight on, my vote is yours!!!

I wish someone would define "black enough" as a character trait. If they could, my guess is a lot of the criteria is non-flattering. Articulate, well-read, well-informed, intelligent would probably not be words associated with "blackness". That being the case, why would one want to be "black enough"?

As a person of multiracial lineage (African-American, Cherokee Indian & Irish), I have had to deal with the same issue my whole life. Mr. Obama answered the question quite appropriately. I highly commend him for it.

Yes, it's time for us to bring our "real" issues to the forefront and not let others forge our issues for us. Mistrust among blacks is as old as slave mentality itself where we were assigned tasks according to the color of our skin. This mistrust have permeated to this present day. There is a lack of trust in our communities, in our business dealings as well as in our social interaction. Mistrust can only be turned into trust when we acknowledge that there are some of "us" who have the best interests of "all of us" at heart. Mistrust is also the outgrowth of misinformation or what I refer to as "media untrues or exaggerations." Let's be astute enough as an electorate to uncover and deal with true issues that affect our lives and well-being.

I think all this "black enough" plays perfectly well in the hands of Republicans: Divide and you shall conquer. One thing I lament about Democrats is that they almost sound like they ask for permission each time before they speak, as opposed to most Republicans who sound more sure of themselves. The exception obviously being Bill Clinton, but unfortunately Kerry did not pick up on it. It seems like Obama knows this, but the real question is not if Obama is "black enough" for the job, it's whether America is "black enough" for him.

I don't give a hoot if he is pink. Or "pink enough". I just don't know anything about the guy. He steps into the limelight a year ago and is now a front runner? That is enough to breed distrust. Color has nothing to do with it.

And while I have your attention, I don't believe for a second that he has the leadership experience or abilities that a president will need in the coming years. He seems to care more about image than substance. The last thing I will vote for is flowery rhetoric. Had enough of being manipulated, thanks.

I'm a 60 yr old white male republican and I couldn't agree more with Obama's comments. I think he's good for whites and blacks (Americans) in other words.

I am a white 28-year old male, and I work in Hyde Park, in Chicago. I have been disgusted by the simple question. I am very glad of both responses Barack has issued. The cab joke and the real issue response. I wish our media/society did not perpetuate this bigotry and racism. Does anyone care about ideas? Is it all merely a popularity contest based on our sub-conscious stereotypes to race, gender, and appearance. We have perpetuated the downward spiral of our election process. I hope this question fades away now and we can talk about the great oppurtunities that lay in front of us in the next 4 years.

Obama is a breath of fresh air...ahhhhh....I'm tired of these politicians who dishonor our country...his color is not the issue...he is willing to talk....a good man....an intelligent man...we need to stop talking about color throughout this country...

well, i completely understood what senator obama is going through. i,myself, am an african-american that lives in a predominantly white community, and have attended schools where the student body is predominantly white. i'm only 18 years old, but all my life, i've had to live with hearing ridiculous comments like i'm not "black enough" from both blacks and whites alike. i think it's quite shameful that we live in a society that measures a person, based on general stereotypes about a specific group of people. at some point, you just have to ignore the ignorant comments, and just be true to yourself.

We are electing a President. The color of his skin should not matter. What should matter is what he has accomplished; what he hopes to accomplish; What he believes in; and whether he can be entrusted to run our country. He has given me so much hope that he can change the way politics are moving. He is "The Great Hope" of the future. Not "The Great White Hope" and not "The Great Black Hope", he is "The Great Hope". When can we as a nation think of Americans as a people and not by the color of their skin.

How can a person act "Black" or "White"? Why can't we all act like
Human Beings? Considering that at the end of the day, we all bleed the same color.

Why can't an intelligent compassionate and dynamic man, who cares about our country, has fought his own personal battles and travails and come out on top, just run for president? Nobody talks about how "white" Hilary is, and she has people who are black supporting her. Give the man a break and listen to what he has to say, and judge him by what he's done.

Senator Obama's answer was brave, insightful, and SO indicative of his ability to get past the ridiculousness that threatens to demean the oh so important process of electing our next world leader. I've also felt that to ask a man that has worked tirelessly in the inner cities of Chicago to assist with rebuilding communities and stood side by side with black religious leaders to solve problems in the worst neighborhoods in the city if he's "black enough" is just ridiculous. Heck, what is "black enough"? I hold a Masters in Information Technology, I teach at the collegiate level, I love Chopin and Billy Joel – am I black enough?

Like Senator Obama, I think those that even dare ask that intensely stupid question feel a certain discomfort over his bi-racial ethnicity, and are unable to relate his unique background. Me? I consider that both those aspects of him have done a great deal to shape who he is as a man, and give him the kind of depth of perception that is needed to be a leader of inclusion. I support Senator Obama and his vision for this country completely, and I am an American born black woman.

His color is not important. I'm voting for a leader, not a color.
He is bright, smart, and good.
His experience level in leadership, in fact his political experience comes up very short in my book as he has accomplished very little in high level politics. That may very well be a problem. No real track record.

Who cares if he's "black" enough–he's a take-it-from-us and give-it-to-"them" Democrat just like Marxist Hillary who really wants to be Eva Peron, a witch-dictator of unarmed and docile slaves totally dependent upon the government. Unfortunately, the Republicans apparently have absolutely nobody with any new ideas at all, even bad ones. As a country, unless something happens, we're screwed.

A change will come! Before Americans especially African Americans even consider questioning the relevance of Mr. Obama blackness, they should first check the history books and propose the same question to our present and past Presidents. What we need to ask all presidential candidates is how do you intend to clean up America’s stinky mess around the world pertaining to our inhumane and unrighteous foreign policies. Next, ask what will they do to address the disgusting situation in America pertaining to healthcare, education, and crime at out highest levels of government. God willing, Mr. Obama will help usher in a better America.

The question that I and most of the people that I know are asking is this:
Will he stand up to the special interests of the oil companies, the insurance companies, the pharmaceutical companies and the military industrial comples and start doing for the working classes what the last Democratic and the current administration have done for the wealthiest 10% of this nation?

That is the only question that interestes me at all.

why doesn't anyone mention that Obama has a white mother? He is mixed race, not black.

AMEN!

When Dr. Martin Luther King hoped for a future where people would be judged by the content of their character and not the color of their skin, I thought it was clear that he intended that white people should stop judging black people based on skin color and vice versa. When black people are judging other black people on their "blackness", it is a sad statement of our inabiity as a society to move beyond race as an issue and treat people based on their merits. How many more decades or centuries will this perverse situation persist

Hi!
Im a South African!
Brilliantly said!

Hear Hear!

Unfortunately most races would select a candidate who is in line with their ideals and principals. Also I believe there is an additional jealousy factor from the black community that Obama made it out of the "ghetto". I have heard more negative comments from black people towards their own because an individual was educated and intelligent. Then they are called "sellouts" if they converse with white people. Doesnt make alot of sense does it?

Great article. And Obama did nail it too. His illuminating announcement that black America is "still locked in this notion that if you appeal to white folks then there must be something wrong" is all-telling. It's such a significant and insightful thought, one can only wonder why it has taken him this long reveal it. It would unquestionably be of value for all American journalists to accept Obama's challenge and examine this issue more closely.

I think he's right on the money. He wants people to look at him neither as black, white Asian, or any other ethnicity and wants to be looked at just a man who has the same problems and wants as anyon other American. I think he's a ray of sunshine. Go, Obama.

Honestly, I've had enough of the other Democratic, and Republican do nothing candidates. It is just a game to them.I'm not voting for a black man, or woman, or any of the rest of the other loosers. I'm voting for Barack Obama. Conservative talk radio told me that I am not a white, conservative, God fearing American, if I vote for Barack. They are full of crap! Barack is a brilliant man who will do more for our country than the rest of the other candidates put together. Now a Barack Obama and Ron Paul ticket sure sounds good to me. Even Obama and Thompson is palatable. Nothing else comes close.

Obama is absolutely right. There is a much larger question, and he seems to be the only one offering any honest answers. It is so refreshing to finally have a candidate that cuts through the rhetoric, and I truly believe the American people need this type of new leadership.

One would hope he could talk about the issues and not about his race. I must add though that having anyone but a white man as president would be a nice change of pace for the White House.

OBAMA HAS A RIGHT TO RUN TO PRESIDENCY LIKE ANY AMERICAN CITIZEN. THERE IS NOTHING WRONG FOR A BLACK MAN HAVING WHITE FRIENDS OR WHITE SUPPORTERS.THOSE DAYS ARE GONE AND IF YOU GO ROUND THE COUNTRY YOU WILL FIND MILLIONS OF BLACK FOLKS MARRIED TO WHITE FOLKS.

My very first impression was a visual one. We have seen Afro-Americans in federal positions infrequently,least of all in the Executive Branch of our government. So the eyebrows go up, but honestly, most of the people get past this exterior first impression and want to see what Mr. Obama is made of, his experience on the hill, how he would fair as a strong leader with in our country and internationally. The press should just get off sensationalism and get to the real issues. Please!

Senator Obama is a stand-up man with new and fresh perspectives. He is ENOUGH in every way to lead this country. Americans need to stick to the real issues here and realize we are running out of time to restore sanity to the White House, and quit playing games that negatively affect those who intend to effect real change in the country. ENOUGH with that ridiculous question, enough with wasting valuable time. If this candidate doesn't pick up speed like a ball rolling down hill, then truly minorities are as asleep as the powers-that-be assume and hope they are.
This opportunity is a rare one. The question isn't "Is he black enough?"; the question is "Are you going to let pigment preference make up your mind for you, and are you willing to gamble on the alternative to him?"

It's like asking, "Is that apple red enough? Is that apple green enough?" Wait, but I like the yellowish-gold apple. The point is simple: we all like different apples. As long as the apple isn't rotten on the inside, and we weren't duped at the grocery store, then we're in business. You can actually return a rotten apple for your money back at many grocery stores. But you can't easily return a politician. We're all just feeling a bit cautious of our apple choices. We each want the apple closest to our taste bud preference.

I like Obama a lot and hope he is the man in the white house in the end. I am not a Dem or Rep, I am for the man whom I believe in. He was against the Iraq war when it was unpopular to do so and stood by his beliefs. I respect that. I don't care what color your skin may be. THAT is being a man, something I don't think we have had in the white house for some time.

Good luck Obama!

I am a 38 y/o divorced white mother of four children living in Connecticut. I happen to feel that race,sex, etc., should not play a part in the reasons why America will vote for a candidate...but it seems to me that the bulk of our nation happens to be uneducated, blue-collar people who have strong opinions that they've clung to from generations of their ancestors passing them down. They do not think independently. They are Archie Bunker-types running around calling names and throwing out rasist remarks and completely feeling justified. Barak to me is inspiring! He represents hope in a time of chaos and I think he's is what this country needs. Grow up, people and hear what he has to say, and not focus on the color of his skin.

Touche! Isn't it time that we have a candidate that appeals to all Americans? We are so fractured in our approach in this nation. We spend so much time focused on specialty interests that we have missed the issues that matter to Americans. The time has arrived that we embrace candidates like Barak Obama for who he is and where he can bring our nation.

The thought that comes to mind when I hear that question is, black enough for what? Is being "black enough" a requirement for the next President? Why isn't he asked if he's white enough? Why doesn't anyone ask Hillary if she's "woman enough", or Dennis Kucinich if he's "short enough"? The question is ridiculous and irrelavant.

Yes, good answer. I'm impressed. How about asking how Barak Obama (or the other candidates), intends to solve the healthcare crisis in this country, the energy crisis, foreign policy, national security, border security, immigration, the mess in Iraq? I want to hear their ideas, in detail. I want to have a clearer vision of what each candidate stands for, I want to know if they understand leadership. I want to know how they prioritize. Is Barak Obama "black enough"? What a ridiculous question!...really.

Senator Obama nailed it ! I think he has challenged the black community to look at some of our own insecurities on race and whether we feel one our own is "fit" to fill this seat of power. That is indeed the issue. The black community needs to confront this issue head-on of whether they are unwilling to support a black candidate solely because they think a "true black person" could not perform in this capacity. Clearly Obama has the capacity to break this unfortunate phobia from our past. I hope we have the wisdom to break past it as well.

No matter the outcome of the primary and or election I am proud to be living in time like this. It is nice to see a viable candidate that does not fit the wealthy white man mold. Senator Obama has a wide appeal and that is extremely exciting for a young voter who is already completely exasperated by our current political situation.

I wonder? If in the year 2050 when white Americans will be the minority, will the question "are you white enough" be asked?

What's done in the past is the past and I believe that Sen. Obama has a good outlook. From everything I have read about the man, I personally will not be voting for him. But he does open the door for ALL races, Black, Hispanic and beyond to run for office. For that, give him a hand clap of praise.

Everyone needs to look past the color, look past the gender, look past what is being presented to them by the media and political campaigns. Look into the candidate, see if they are who they say they are and if they will actually stand up for American people in whole.

Being 'black enough' defines an underlying bias, and as a white person who finds 'color of skin' an unreliable and opportunistic basis for bias, I would reject anyone who defines their bias in this manner.

I completly agree with Obama. I am black both my parents came from rough area. So they riased my sister and i in a nice are which happened to be mostely white. so by the time I got to school and around other blacks. I would always get coments like why dont I ckt black or talk black and i didnt understand why. I just thought being born black made me black. But it is sad the today ther are still those in the black comunity that feel the only way to be successful as a black man or women is to be either a singer rapper or ahtlete. Anything else you have sold out or you have not meet the requirements to be black enough. I just wish that everyone INCLUDING US BLACKS would stop looking at skin and just see the person for what they are.

It is indeed a ridiculous issue. I could care less if a candidate is black, Latino, female, or any other "label". I am only concerned about their ability to govern ans keep America safe. Anyone else who does consider these labels as part of their "due diligence" in selecting a candidate to vote for is simply wasting their vote.

The president should not be selected based upon race ( Obama ), sex ( Hillary ) or religion ( Romney ). The president should be selected based upon their ability to lead the largest economy, strongest milatary and biggest organization. This country deserves a proven leader who can LEAD our government and LEAD our society. I would prefer if those who have the abilty to ask questions of the candidates ask questions that pertain to the candidates leadership skills and not extraneous issues.

I agree strongly with the comments of Geoffrey Garfield. I don't believe the real question is whether or not Barack Obama is Black enough. Rather it is whether he is African American enough. Perhaps, the lack of enthusiasm among Blacks for Mr. Obama as a presidential candidate has to do with the fact that his African ancestry does not come out of the historic struggles of the African Americans in this country. While I take great comfort and satisfaction in the fact that a person of African descent is and can be a viable presidential candidate, I also must admit to wishing this person was a product of the African American experience. It would be a testament to how far we as a people have come and can go.

Obama is right. When I vote it will not be for a woman or a black man or any other color or gender but, for a competent candidate. We need to focus on how they handle themselves in office and in the public eye. When we continue to focus on gender and race in the political arena we lose sight of the real issue, can this person lead us forward?

Excellent response from Obama. Good for him, and shame on the people for bickering amongst themselves while their resources, rights and property are auctioned away to the highest bidder.

First I must say that I am not impressed with any of the candidates, Democrat or Republican. If the election was tomorrow I really don't know who I would vote for at this point. But to all of the Obama fans, can any of you name at least one or two things that the man has done to qualify him to run the country? Everyday we read about all of the people jumping on his bandwagon! He does have the gift of gab but it seems that he only tells people what "they" want to hear. I think that everyone should take a step back and ask themselves, "WHAT HAS OBAMA DONE TO QUALIFY HIM TO BE PRESIDENT?". If you can't come up with anything, other than his speeches, you all better jump off of that wagon!

The question has always been a riculous one! However, being raised it had to be answered and he has responded perfectly. I watch some of the black journalist out there and it almost seem that they are worried that he might actually succeed. I hope this answer will make them and others in the public examine their inner feelings on the matter. He nailed the question. The rest is up to them.

No One should ever be asked if they are "black, white or hispanic" enough to be president! It is an insulting question, and by the way, LOTS of people, especially older Americans, are not ready for a FEMALE president!

It is ridiculous. You don't hear anyone saying are Hillary Clinton or John Edwards "white enough"?

The " are you Black Enough"question posed by African Americans to Obama needs to be put to rest.This man is a breath of fresh air. If you're curious investigate, look at his mentors and the projects that he has put forward in his home state. A president should reflect the interests of all people.

To associate class and culture as "black enough" is ridiculous. Black people altogether as well as others, should understand that as a race/culture, we also vary and have depth...and that is okay. It's fair to say that it is demoralizing for an accomplished person of any degree to have to turn around and answer a question that marginalizes those achievements. To be fair, how often do we hear, "is she white enough?" or "is he white enough?"

I hope he doesn't have to answer this question again. I've been asked the same question all my life. If youare articulate and a high achiever; there are Blacks that resent you. The same Blacks that complain and whine about the white man not giving them a chance. I applaud Senator and hopefully President Barack! He has my full support!

Well maybe the greater question is he white enough, he is after all, half white.His mother raised him, where was his father, Johnny come lately.He is trying to sell what he is not who he is.Blacks represent a small voting population,He can never be elected, He has made the issue of his blackness,and it is quite common knowledge,that "real blacks"don't like lighter colored people.Tiger Woods has handled what he is very well. No one made a comment about him marring a white and having a wonderful baby. Obama needs to take note, Let his actions speak louder than his words.

Its sad to say but the Senator is correct. It seems to me that many of our Afrticna American citizens look down on members of their own race for assimilating in to our culture. The reality is that it was no different for the Irish or the Norwegians. They all can hold on to their ethnicity..but we have to assimilate to a certain degree to work wiht in and form/build our society.

Black-white who cares.If B.O. can fix or even identify why one of the these two color is on welfare more ,in jail,highest devorice,highest # of kids not graduating from HS unemployed etc,etc.,and yes why they have the highest # in the NBA then he or she should be President those are the real issues.

In some sense his blackness is a legitimate question, perhaps not as much for black people but for white people. We would like to know why, having a white mother, he is running as a black candidate and ONLY speaks to that part of his heritage? His absent, black, African father had less of an impact on his life than his white, American mom. In short, he should be just a candidate, not a black or white candidate. I thought we were supposed to be color blind?

Senator Obama's understanding of this issue and his determination to put it permanently to rest with his brand of candor and fearless confrontation is refreshing and inspirational, especially to me, an American of Eastern European descent.

It is the real issues that matter, the need to end the unjustifiable war in Iraq, the basic need for providing health care to all Americans as an issue of national security, the need to improve the quality of the educational system. Those are the issues that are at the heart of what America is about. Talking about the skin color or "blackness" is just a distraction, a mirage of confusion that prevent us from getting where we must go. Good answer by Obama!

Good for him. As a minority, we are always blasted with the race issue. If it is not from external sources it is from within. Why can't this educated American run for this office without the baggage of race from within our community, when we know he will be be subjected to it from others?

Touche.

The question was asked by a black journalist representing what I believe is a real question in the black community.

The fact is that Jesse Jackson had higher poll numbers than Obama in the black community when Jackson was running. Obama is as much white as he is black. So, it is a relevant question: Because he is half white and is respected in the white community, will black voters vote for him in large numbers?

Not only is it a relevant question. I think the answer is no.

It was Martin Luther King who said, "judge me not on the color of my skin, but on the content of my character." What are Senator Obama's views? What makes him qualified to be president? Where does he stand on issues x, y or z? Those are the questions we should be asking of him.

It is a positive development that not every candidate looks the same in this race. We have a woman, Hispanic, black, and a Mormon. None of them should have to prove that they are enough or not too much of those. They merely have to prove that they are the best candidate. End of story.

Mr. Obama definitely hit the nail on the head. The African American race needs to stop asking such a ludicrous question concerning him unless they ask the same question to all the other candidates. We all should be more concerned about whether his intentions are legitimate and whether he will run the country in the best manner--case closed.

Everytime I think this man will "skirt" the issue and provide a politically correct answer (I mean, that is par for the course with many senators) he stuns me with frank and prolific honesty. As an African-American voter, I appreciate him anwering the question directly.

As people decide between Obama and Clinton (because really, the Presidential candidate for the DEMs is really between these two – at this point), that answer continues my journey down Obama lane. One of the major ups that he has versus Clinton is quite simple – he's not a life-long politician. He doesn't owe anyone a favor on the Hill, or side-step certain questions to appease certain groups.

And, as much as I do miss Old Bill, I'm still not sure if Hillary is the best person for the job...especially when there's an Obama on the horizon. Let's all keep an open mind.

I believe it is time all U.S. Citizens faced the reality that united we stand, divided, we fall! We, as americans, have to unify and find the things that we all agree on and stop looking for the differences.

If we don't, the special interests and the big money will divide an conquer. That is our only chance to take our country back.

I did not have the great fortune of being present at the meeting of black journalist nor did I have a chance to read a full transcript of the interview with Senator Obama. However from the comments that you have described in this article, Senator Obama is correct. Unfortunately, when people in our community (African American) rise to highest levels of education, the "folks" find every excuse possible not to trust them. We see it not only in politics, but we see it everyday in medicine, the practice of law, in business, in choosing religious leaders, and in the educational world. As a doctor in a highly specialized field I am often confronted with questions from our people concerning my qualifications that my colleagues do not need to address. We see this when people choose to attend a church with a pastor with no advanced education over one that does have the credentials. We fail to support our own businessmen and lawyers that are highly qualified for their white competitors based upon unfounded perceptions and mistrust. If we are to advance as a people, we must stop turning to athletes and musicians to define our culture, level of activism, and future. Instead we must let the folks that are grounded in our community and who have obtained a "piece of paper" from the Harvards, Dukes, Emorys, and UCLAS to guide us into the next decade. If we take that attitude, then Senator Obama becomes the obvious choice to represent Black America and America as a whole as the next President.

Unfortunately, mainstream African-America's social and moral compass has eroded so badly, that being well-spoken and intelligent doesn't count as being "black" anymore. Today we perpetuate the worst of all stereotypes (tattoos, cornrows, baggy clothes and broken speech) and attempt to call it culture. Neither Dr. King or Malcolm X were proponents of the perpetuation of slave culture ignorance. Yet today our young people only see hip-hop criminals as their icons. The black ignorance glorified in rap videos is more derogatory than the KKK propaganda films of the early 20th century. Any educated African American with accomplishments and command of the english language gets shouted down by the ignorant majority. And then the ignorant majority laments its own plight. We're like that parable about the bucket of crabs. No crab escapes the bucket because the other crabs don't want to see him succeed.
I don't agree with all of Obama's politics, but we should be relieved to see an African American leader who does not illicit laughter or ridicule like the political pimps who have sustained the failures of the past 40 years for their own personal gains. Our grandparents fought the hard battles. It's time for a generation of African Americans to strive for social credibility that will smash the stereotypes and lead to true equality.

amen Bro! I am a Hillary supporter but I think you nailed this one! When when will we (black folks) get past them slave mentality that somehow are "blackness" is put into question when we have broad appeal..

I am as white and freckled as they come and Obama is plenty black for me and suits me just fine as the next president of the United States. We need a good person with vision to lead this troubled nation and I think heis just about the right man.

Write on target! Merci.

IT IS RIDICULOUS THAT PEOPLE FOCUS ON IS OBAMA BLACK ENOUGH RATHER THAN HIS ABILITY TO HEEL A NATION AND MISGUIDED AND UNDER EDUCATED YOUTH. A NATION THAT CAN EASILY SPEND TRILLIONS ON A WAR ON THE OTHER SIDE OF THE WORLD BUT CAN'T FEED AND CARE FOR THE VETERENS IN THIS COUNTRY. WHEN DO WE, DEMS AND REPU STOP THE LYING AND PRETENDING THAT OUR LEADERS ARE ACTING AS CRIMINALS AND TAKE ACTION. WE NEED GREAT LEADERS THAT FOCUS ON OUR PROBLEMS NOT LEADERS WHO FOCUS ON BEING BLACK ENOUGH....BECAUSE LET THE TRUTH BE TOLD DO THEY REALLY KNOW WHAT IT MEANS TO BE BLACK?

Well done!! I have the 'audacity to hope' that finally the press and the public will look beyond the superficial to what is unique about this candidate, the integrity and authenticity that emanates from his very being. We have a unique opportunity in this country to elect an individual who is brilliant and charismatic yet willing to devote his talents and life is service of this country and 'all' its people. It is a service that will tax his finances, his familiy and force him to question his values, judgements and decisions every single day. Let us not aid those that would reduce his candidacy to such a ridiculous question. I challenge CNN to never give ink or air-time to this non-issue again.