The issue of "Blackness" is one of culture and class, not of skin color. In most of the past 75 years, blacks were predominately working class, many even lower class. This is rapidly changing, but thie issue of class identity still clings to those moving ahead. Will Obama represent those from the lower and working classes? This is the real question being asked.

There's one superficial-yet-crucial hurdle jumped. Keep it up, Senator Obama!

Absolutely right! Skin color should have nothing to do with a person's ability to compete in politics. People in this country need to get past the things that separate us. Race, religion, social status, sexual preference, ECT. If this can happen, maybe it wouldn't take a catastrophe such as 9/11 to get our country united.

Senator Obama continues to amaze and impress me with his ability to "hit the nail on the head." His perspicacious nature and comfort in his own being will make him an enduring person in the American landscape. I believe that when his political career is over, we, the American people, will speak of him in the same breath as the most influential, thought-provoking, and visionary leaders of our country.

Drop it. I'm white (non-issue) and love the guy. Drop the frickin race issue. Good or bad is my vote. Not brown or tan.

- Jake Johnson
Fitchburg, WI

I think Obama's response to the ridiculous question was outstanding.Perhaps now this will lead to a dialogue on what keeps our community divided and also not focus on issues that matter.

Black people should know if he is Black enough; and
White people should know if he is White enough.
Mature people will know if he is mature enough;
experience people will know if he is experienced enough;
young people will know if he is young enough.

Hispanic people know that he can sing in Spanish and his favorite song is Mexico the Beautiful.

Islamic people will know if he is Islamic enough.

Any you think Mormons are having a hard time. What was this guy's middle name?

I appreciate that Mr. Obama answered the question in a frank and straight-forward way. The whole issue of Barack's "blackness" is what is at the heart of the American political problem: superficialities and cloistered bias.

Obama has never attempted to seperate himself from the black community and has never showed an overzealous bias toward it (ala Jesse Jackson or Rev. Sharpton). He stands firmly in an attentive, mediative position on the issue of race and does not let it define him.

I would like the majority of the American public to stop focusing on names and skin color; try focusing on the issues for once.

I'm white, and from the surface you'd think I'm like all other whites. I'm calm, reserved, the traditional "whitey". But I love black people, and I mean really really love them. Some of the best friends I've ever had were black, I adore black culture and learning about black history. I'm not even sure why, I guess to me black folks seem more "real" and alive.

That said, I don't like Obama one bit. The man seethes with dishonesty and inexperience. He's always batting his eyes, saying some slick catchphrase, I dunno there's just something about this man that isn't right to me. Hard to put my finger on it, really.

Anyway, I would love to see a black President, but I would hate to see Obama there. I would choose Condoleeza Rice any day, even if she is from the Bush administration. She's one tough person who would definitely have my vote, and I don't get the same strange vibes from her.

Seriously, could you even imagine the "black enough" question about Ms. Rice?

HOORAY FOR OBAMA!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Now maybe people will lay this idiotic question to rest.
Why not ask, (why there exists this mistrust in black America of a black man like Obama running for office?) Give an answer to that, believe me everyone knows he is "Black", can't be anything other than. Listen to MC Hammer's song Black is Black. Just as I am with two black parent, Obama is Black with one White and one Black one.

I think Obama answered it correctly and it's unfortunate that the question will dog him throughout the election process. However, he is the first legitimate black candidate running for president and that is a story. I respect him for handling the question deftly and turning the tables on black people to turn inward and examine their own views.

If the question were rigorously explored by neutral pollsters, I don't think enough voting Americans Outside the Beltway in the Heartland are prepared to nominate or elect a black (or even half-black) President. "Closet" racists will never admit their bias and prejudice, but there are also subtle degrees of "rational" or "subliminal" racism which will deter a vote for Obama.

Roland, I'm African American. Barack Obama is a class act. Barack hit it right on the head. I agree with him. I've seen the same mistrust being black and successful in corporate america. I sincerely hope the black voters here in america wake up and realize that Barack will do more for them than any President before, not because he's black, but because he has integrity an attribute that is non existent in front running Demo candidates. You see, the other Democratic candidates know this so they will continue their onslaught of attacks. Barack, continue to stand your ground and believe in your well articulated mission.

To think that Sen. Barack Obama is not "Black" enough for Black Americans is the most asinine thing to conjur up when it comes to talking politics within Black America. We Black Americans have deep seated mistrust of the governing body of this country, however when one "looks" like us (Obama) and is Democratic, again (Obama)… We follow with no aversion. Those traits make us lemmings to that candidate. Remember Jesse Jackson?

For Roland Martin:

You are absolutely right. Senator Obama nailed it. Now, if he would exhibit the same courage and analytical prowess in all forums, the Hillary 'lead' may go away.

You are right! The question of his blackness has always been a ridiculous one. I have to wonder if this is just something that only the press are really asking?

The sad and sometimes funniest thing is that black people do not trust other black people. Its not even a Black American thing. I grew up in Africa and I am black. When a lot of my friends and family visited a hospital they preferred a white doctor instead of a black one. The same way that my grand mother thought she would be cured quicker if the doctor used an injection to give her medication than giving her pills.
Black people still think white folks are better than black people, the same way that white people are more open to me than they are to Black Americans because I am African.

Of course the question of whether the American people are ready for a black President is ridiculous. But so is the question of whether the American voters are ready for a woman President, or a Mormon President. If a candidate was a double amputee, there would be questions concerning whether the voters are ready for a disabled President. Or, when there is a gay or lesbian candidate, there will be questions raised as to whether we are ready for a homosexual President. They are all equally ridiculous. But I sincerely do not believe it has anything to do with black America not trusting the "blackness" of Obama.

Agreed, he nailed it!

so what! What's love got do with it?
(Tina Turner).Blackness isn't the issue.
it's the isssue of intellect… I would vote for Obama… no matter what his race…he is a thinker, smart, goes beyond the political reaches to the rest of us….he has a vision that inspires,he is a brighter vision,…i'm so tired of Hilary's rhetoric… p.s. I'm a registered republican…

Unfortunately the color of your skin can still trump the content of your character in the US. I applaud Sen. Obama for just being himself, a human being trying to do some good in an often sadly corrupted world. The truth is black or white, anyone could have handled the Katrina debacle better than Bush.

I think that it is human nature for a group to not want one of their members to do better then them. As soon as someone begins to have sucess, they try and pull them back down to their level. Otherwise they would have to admit that their level of sucess is their own fault, not someone elses.

Please show a video clip of this like you did for Clinton's retort. He gets such bad press and Hillary is completely ignored when there is proof that she said "Nuclear Weapons should be off the table"……….Please cover this. thanks

Over the past few months, I've seen a few soundbites of Senator Obama addressing predominantly black audiences. In my perception, he seems to adopt a kind of patois, a rythm and emphasis in his speech patterns that are different from his appearances that are not in front of predominantly black audiences. I don't know if I'm right, and I don't know what to make of it if I am right. It's embarassing to watch. If I'm right, he seems to be saying, "Pay attention to what I say, and/or to how I sound when I'm saying it. If you like one or the other or both, vote for me."

Perhaps Senator Clinton does a similar thing when speaking to prodominantly female audiences. Perhaps her vocabulary changes, partly to sound more "womanly".

I wonder if reporters have noticed what I think I've noticed about Senator Obama's speech patterns, and if they've reported or commented on it.

Obama's question is a dodge; Shirley Chislom for President, Jesse Jackson for President, Al Sharpton for Mayor and President, never got asked that question of whether they were black enough, so Obama's analysis of black self-hate is obtuse, and just proved why the question is asked of him because this question he poses demonstrates that he really does not understand instinctively how and why black folk support each other to political positions. Mainly for protection against racist police and society, then service delviery. And which of his black friends in Hawaii and Jakarta razzed him about going Ivy League, most folks I know honor other blacks who have achieved the Columbia-Harvard dream, so who is he talking about? The reason the black enough question persists is because WE, black people still do not KNOW him as we do other leaders who have been defined by our 400 year struggle in America. He just needs to man-up and say Yes, I may not have the exact background of struggle like my brethren and sistren of African descent, but I have still suffered from racism and dedicate myself to its eradication, in the meantime my fellow African Americans and Americans of all stripe, judge me by my commitment and record…nuff said, and I will not be addressing this issue again. Thank you.

These black journalists bring up this question to him but they would never be so kind to the blacks that President Bush nominated to his cabinet because they worked in a republican administration. Mrs. Rice and Mr. Powell have often been refered to as tokens or uncle Toms or other degrading things because their beliefs were in line with the republican party. They were never taken up for in this way.

I know it's news to have a black candidate as popular as Obama because he's not necessarily a "long shot". AND he appeals to many of any color.

I hadn't really thought about his chances of winning even the party nomination, but have to agree that Obama is right - about what questions should be asked of whom. I think the only thing most people who are color-blind are thinking is that it is too soon for a black president because not many (or any) have reached the interim stage, such as speaker of the house or vice-president. Doesn't really matter whether they do or not, but that goes to the heart of how comfortable people will be with a black president. With each "glass ceiling" that gets broken, people will be accepting until finally president will be the next logical step.

I do think for blacks, however, that they want an "all black" president who will be more partial to blacks. Hence, they are suspicious of a black president who appeals as much to whites as blacks. Generally, black people aren't as color-blind as white. Perhaps with good reason; but they don't recognize their bias. After all, "Uncle Tom" is a derogatory name for a black man who catered to whites - named so by other blacks.

Anyway, I am white (of hispanic descent),and am pleasantly surprised to find I listen to Obama as well as I would any candidate - that I want to know more about their politics. I don't know yet if he needs more experience overall, but he's refreshing, and I am happy to say I AM colorblind. I wish more blacks were; but I can certainly understand why they are not.

I do believe we are making progress though! We will see a black president one day, and not as far off as people think.

Have a great day.

To me, Obama is a visionary leader. He has far more experience in the real world than Clinton or any of the other candidates. Everything I hear and read about him furthers this. He was a civil rights attorney, he worked to rise people above their stations. He is the kind of leader that comes along once a generation if we’re lucky. I’ve just read “the Audacity of Hope” and it was so stirring, so clear, so clearly written not by a ghost writer but in the voice of the man himself. Barry Obama is the real deal, he’s the sort of fighter that we need oh so desperately in these trying times. I would go door to door for this candidate, I would believe he would look at any issue either foriegn or domestic with clear eyes and make decisions that were both humane and smart for our country and the world. The other candidates all strike me as fodder for lobbists, career politicians. I remember how moved I was when I heard his speech during Kerry’s convention. He is indeed a uniter, someone who can bring this sadly divided dis union back into union again. People will put paintings and photos on their walls of this man in the same way they do JFK or MLK. Mark my words, America and the world will prosper under President Obama. To see that happen I’d gladly travel to Ohio, to South Carolina, to Iowa, or anywhere else I needed to go to ensure he gets a fair shot. That’s all the man needs, is one good fair shot. Given his due he’ll do us right. Do the research. Don’t be a lemming. Read about him, read his own words. They aren’t sound bites, they’re living, breathing, human thoughts full of compassion and common sense, stength and integrity. Really look at this candidate. Do your kids and their kids the biggest favor of our lives.

I am so sick and tired of hearing the question of Obama being black enough. I am a black women who attended mostly white schools since first grade. When are we going to listen to Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and judge a person by the content of his soul and not by the color of his skin.

I think if Obama doesn't want to be asked this question. Then he shouldn't be trying to appeal to the black vote by constantly saying "look, I know what it was like to grow up, blah, blah, blah" and represent the black folks, when he was raised by his white Mother in Hawaii and went by the name Barry in High School and didn't embrace his "blackness" until he was older. If he would stop trying to use his skin color to his advantage, then maybe he would stop being asked this questions. And he could just be Barak or Barry or whoever he wants to be.

Barack Obama will be a great president. He's obviously quite an intellectual, but more than that, he represents what most American's probably only dream of accomplishing: going against the grain, and actually fighting to fulfill a purpose that will take not only himself, but those who follow who his leadership to amazing ventures. America is in definite need of a change, and Senator Obama is exactly the change we need (along with God of course).But he has charisma, grace, intelligence, humility,selflessness…things of which our current presidency is void. He sees America as the nation our creed dictates,united, rather than these superflous,idiotic lines,that so divide us from becoming greater,not only as Americans, but personally. Obama will definitely get my vote, and as many as I can recruit.

I'm not an Obama supporter, I'm voting for Clinton, but i do have to agree with you 100%, the question of Obama's Blackness is ridiculous. The man's race should not be an issue here, his experience (or lack thereof) and his policies are what need to be in the forefront. Black, Woman, White, SOUTHERN, NORHTERN, who cares? it's 2007 and we're still sexist and racist, come on people GET OVER IT!

Barack Obama handled nailed it. After reading his books, it is clear that the so called debate about his "blackness" has never held him back. It is an issue he has had to deal with, although the questioning of how black he is, is ridiculous. At the end of the day, Obama has motivated vast amoounts of people to actually get excited about politics again. This is something we have not seen for the last 15 years, and people should recognize it

I don't think Obama could have put it any better. I am really starting to warm up to him, and I wouldn't be surprised if he gets my vote fairly soon. Obama continues to impress me, and this is yet another example why.

I am a 58yr. white old male. I was raised in Chicago during a time when most neighborhoods reflected a specific ethnicity, no particular anomisity toward each other, it was just the way it was. Sure there were morons who made comments but for the majority, decent people have been and always will be decent people. I have reached a point in my life, where I could care less about the color of anyones skin. In fact I do not even think about it until the question is raised in the media. If there is a current racial inequity, bring it up. If not, then move past it. The continous discussion of color does nothing more than propogate the issue for racist. The real issue of Barack or any other candidate, regardless of color, is can they solve some very serious problems. To my knowledge, skin pigment has never been recorded as a solution to any problem. Let it go, and to all you journalist, ask the questions that will solve problems, not the ones that slow the process.

Obama nailed it. He keeps showing that he can tell it like it is. I am a white guy in the south as if that should matter.

Right on! Stop talking about balckness and start talking about the issues that will define his candidacy; the economy, poverty, healthcare and defense. I like Obama but don't yet know enough about where he stands on core issues.

I have never understood this question, because the only ones asking it are those that don't know. I have read both his books, and the stories he tells about working as a community organizer alone shows me he has always tried to make a difference in the black community. But I guess because he doesn't fit our very generalized and stereotypical description of a black man something must be wrong with him. Forget that we are the ones asking this silly question.

I agree with Obama. We should not be asking questions like this anyways because really it should not matter if you black or white as long as you are human.

Obama makes some valid points with his observations. I think when you talk about issues like this that seem to be prevalent in a large number of African Americans the Hypocrisy is often pointed out but rarely do we as Americans want to go beyond the surface to figure out why these things are as they are.

Roland, I think you're absolutely right when you say that it's a ridiculous question. In an age where we are trying to move beyond skin color and race as a means of division and prejudice, no one should be judging Barack Obama based on his level of "blackness."
The Senator is an American candidate running to represent and serve all Americans, not just whites, blacks, Hispanics, Asians, etc.
Let's move beyond the "are you black enough" and instead ask "what ideals would you stand for as the 44th President of the United States?"

I care nothing about the mans race. What concerns me is his thoughtless comments concerning Pakistan one of our allies in the war on terror. I am concerned that he is not aware that Canada has a Prime Minister…not a President. We cannot afford to hire someone who needs "On the Job Training" for the office of President at this time. His other gaffes are numerous and I find him to be insincere, thoughtless and naive.

I think, as a republican, that we are going to have a woman or black president. And I will be glad when we do. So we can move past childish, topics. Children, who are not taught hate at home, do not question a 'different' teacher, friend or even step parent. I would love to hear more about how the candidates will address health care, immigration, the war and the economy. Not the 'blackness' of someones skin or cleavage. Is our common denominator really that low?

If we refer to anyone of mixed race, half black, half white as "black," doesn't that reflect an anachronistic prejudicial view, a holdover from our segregated past, that any drop of Black African blood makes one black? Why don't we ask is Barack Obama white enough? Do we ask if Bill Richardson is Hispanic enough? It's a pathetic American myopia. How many millions of Americans are of mixed race? Could we just respect that beautiful diversity in our country and refer to all of them in a positive way, rather than with a discriminating tag?

why won't black America (i.e., black "leaders") support Obama?

Jealousy, pure and simple.

A QUESTION FROM A DISAPPOINTED REPUBLICAN…IS THERE A NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF WHITE JOURNALISTS CONVENTION SOME WHERE? I KNOW THAT IF THERE WAS…THEY WOULDN'T SPEND ANY TIME WONDERING IF JOHN EDWARDS OR H. C. WERE "WHITE" ENOUGH.
I FEEL BARACK'S ANSWER WAS GREAT, AND THAT THE "BLACK JOURNALISTS" ARE THEIR OWN WORST ENEMIES. THE NEXT THING WE ARE GOING TO HEAR IS THAT ANOTHER CANDIDATE IS GOING TO RUN…WHOEVER AND WHENEVER…AND THE NEXT QUESTION IS GOING TO BE "ISN'T THAT PERSON TOO BLACK" COME ON………

I think that by my answering this question first, and its been posted for a while up there tells me that no one really cares if he's black enough, Hilary got the Nomination Nailed, Obama, good luck scoring the V.P. don't think she's gonna offer it to you though…
Vote Independant, and get someone that wants to make Pot legal in Office.

African Americans’ inability to widely embrace a qualified African American as a candidate who can actually win the presidency shows the extent of the debilitating and oppressive aftermath of slavery. We have been conditioned to believe that the “white” race is the only race that is capable of achieving the highest of heights. White politicians come along every 4 to 6 years taking over our church’s pulpits, throwing us various political bones in the form of promises of particular social programs that they know will keep us mired in a oppressed and disadvantaged state while letting us know that there are no African American on the face of this earth who is qualified enough to be on a national presidential ticket. The time is now for all these so called “black leaders” to stop being held captives in Egypt by a particular political family, and start giving the next generation of African American children an opportunity for a life altering experience. It is time for us as African Americans to not throw our political support behind any African American presidential candidate, but behind an African American presidential candidate who is qualified, who have our shared vision, and who can really win the presidency. There is no doubt that Sen. Obama can win if African Americans vote in massive numbers for him. It is funny; we use to say that the “white man” is always keeping us down. The question I would like to pose to every African American is—Why have you let the “white man” bamboozled you to keep the “black presidential candidate” down?

Alas it is the "it" question…Along with those of Sen. Clinton being a woman and if she could do a good enough job with a predominently male lead world. Or the more ridiculus, Congressman Kucinich being too short to be president. It sounds as if we are judging a beauty pagent instead of seeing through the to the candidates words… Query, I wonder what the result of a group of seeing impared folks listening to the debates would say about each canidates answers. Of course, skiping those that do such as the former…See who they think "won" the debate..CNN??

Obama's table turning response is all the more poignant for the fact that (i) the questioner upon whom he turned the table is likewise an African-American man who has found success as a journalist for CBS, a mainstream institution whose product is crafted to appeal to mainstream white American and (ii) he was speaking to an audience comprised of African-Americans who have degrees from institutions of higher learning and whose craft–journalism– is grounded in "white" linguistic and cultural conventions. Obama's personal narrative is that of a man who has seized the opportunities presented to him. If he makes it to the presidency, then the foundational excuse of white domination and racism in which some quarters of black America are deeply invested as an explanation for constrained social, political and economic circumstances will be called into serious question. Obama, who it should be stressed, is running not as a black man, but as an American who is also black, will have become living proof that America has evolved to a place where talent, drive and perseverance can override racial bigotry. What excuse then? That is why the persistence of the pernicious and self-defeating question, "is he black enough?"

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!

I don't know if Obama would make the best president, but he's proving to be the best candidate. I disagree with many of his policies, but his brilliance alone has me considering him in spite of those differences. A smart president - it's been a while.

It should not matter what skin color Sen. Obama has, his actions in regards to our nation and the rest of the world should be what matters.

If you as a citizen of the United States are judging who you believe is the best candidate for any political office on the basis of their skin, then I believe that while you are entitled to your beliefs you are also making a grave error in judgment.

This was a strong answer. So often the best answers are deeper questions–a refocusing on the essential.

I've been wary of Obama for other reasons and his answer helps with my questions about his willingness to get his hands dirty and dig into his identity. I trust him a bit more today. My concern has been his youth. At times he seems almost collegiate. He doesn’t seem fully tested. I wish he were just a bit more of a bruiser. I think one also needs a willingness to look at uncomfortable social issues inside of one's self. I am going to trust someone more if I get an opportunity to witness them be introspective. So he gets points with me.

You get a feeling that Clinton has spent a longer time thinking about the troubles of the world. But she can be distant. She’s always thinking tactically. I like her when she lets her guard down, but at the same time I suppose a cautious and tactical leader is a good thing.

This race has created a dialogue where we are comparing two very different and potentially valuable leaders. The issues we are discussing because of them has enlivened our democracy. I am happy that both candidates are present and, regardless of who wins the nomination, this process has made the Democratic Party stronger.

Following this race via You Tube has been very helpful. I have appreciated hearing more from the other candidates than I would have on regular T.V. It is good to see how they challenge each other. It is good to hear such passionate debate.

–R

I love the paradoxical quality of this "ask Barak if he's black enough" question. Clinton leads the polls, particularly among the African-American population. This begs the question: if Barak isn't black enough, does that mean Hillary is?

I am a student and a big Obama supporter, and I agree- he got to the root of the problem. I don't see the real value of ethnicity in this presidential race, outside of political perception.

I'd like to comment on more of your future articles; I enjoy your perspective.

Obama hit the nail on the head with this one. I couldn't agree with him more.

Senator Obama is absolutely correct. In the public arena he couldn't address the "crabs in the bucket" mentality of some black people. I've read that he is not a descendent of slaves and therefore can not understand
the African-American experience. And the other candidates can? I think not.

Yet some in our community are inextricably attached to the "first black president" although the only thing he has done for us is come to our churches and play his sax.

The junior NY senator has trivialized our history when she stated that "the house is like a plantation". Yet we applaud that racist comment and don't have the self respect to recognize the pandering.

The latino community is not questioning whether Gov. Richardson is "latin enough" although he is mixed and carries an anglo surname.

Senator Obama is prepared, experienced, has integrity and is not coming from an arrogant posture of entitlement. He does not take federal lobbyist money, he does not accept PAC money and has proposed an excellent position paper on: fighting terrorism, improving education,providing mental health care for returning vets, health care. He has lived outside of the US and has family living overseas…this certainly gives him insight into how our country is perceived abroad.

The black journalists ought to ask him and the other candidates real questions that reflect the concerns peculiar to our community. Education, employment, health care, AIDS treatment and gun sales… oh these are issues which concern other Americans too.

Senator Obama wants to change how things are done in Washington and those changes would benefit our community because he is listening to people and their concerns. He is not in anyone's pocket and his decisions will not be based upon agreements with his "bankers". He is the best candidate for president bar none and has experience working with both sides of the aisle.

I wonder how many of these journalists have ever looked at his website. It's open, fresh, dynamic and interactive.

It's frightening how far our journalists have descended from the days of David Walker sewing his appeal against slavery into people's clothing and asking the first black editor of the Harvard Law Review such an insulting and irrevelant question. They should have the courage to ask "What can we do to help?".

How our community supports this courageous leader, who opposed the Iraq war at a time when they were called unpatriotic, will tell the world about our level of pride or lack thereoff.

I think it's another example of Obama's insight and intelligence.

I really hope he is our next president.

Imagine- a constitutional law expert in charge after an administration who has insulted and violated the constituion. He would have the knowledge, and would have the power to change the bills Bush pushed through that are unconstitutional.

He will surprise all the poll parrots in the media when he wins the primary. GO OBAMA!!!!

i maybe completely wrong about this one, but whenever i hear this man (barack)talk, i come alive and seem to see light at the end of the tunnel. im a white male and have never heard a political talk in such universal term but yet very personal and endearing. barack has my vote. i will live and die a happy man knowing that this country has a leader like barack. thanks for reminding us of what makes this nation great.

I have not heard Bill Richardson response to the question are you hispanic enough? Hillary are you woman enough? or Mitt Romney response to are you white enough? Obama should respond Iam American enough and that is all that matter.

Congratulations to Senator Obama for nailing this point. This ridiculous question has been out there for years but the fact is most elected black politicians are liberals–read Democrat–as any "real" black person should be according to the stereotype contained in the "black enough" question. Person's like Charlie Rangel, Maxine Water's, etc never tried to appeal to whtie folks so their "black enough" street cred was never an issue. It's only when a principled American pioneer like Senator Obama, or perhaps–dare I say it–Clarence Thomas–breaks away from the safe harbor of narrow, racially divided ideas that grey scale lable suddenly rears it's ugly head.

Has America come far in resolving it's race problems? Absolutely! Do problems remain? Absolutely!

Festering racism still remains in pockets of our society but what we see clearly now is that the ugly impulse of racist ideology is utterly color blind–it will attache itself to any willing, mis-guided human, irrespective of skin color or political party, with the same painful and debilitating consequences.

Thank you Senator for confronting this issue head on and dead on!

Racism in this country saddens me. I want to live in a country where every man is truly equal and the walls of ethnicity are knocked down forever. Barack Obama hit the nail on the head with his statement about race. He is a man who believes in the principles that will take us into a new and better age as Americans. It warms my heart to think of the social prosperity that is possible.

I was really impressed by how Obama handled himself tonight. This continues to show how he would change things in America. I think Black America has this notion that being black is being all rough and unkempt and all hard nosed.We have very little confidence in ourselves always believing that we cannot make it at a high level. We have been made to feel inferior and we are having a huge problem with discarding this baggage and hence seeing ourselves as actually inferior.We are also having a problem accepting a black person who is indeed enjoying white support. I do not egt it. When the rest of America can see what we have in Obama, we the black folks are the ones measuring his qualifications on the basis of "blackness". How is being educated in Harvard diminishing his "blackness"? How is him being eloquent and oratorial dimish his blackness? This is what is bringing down our society. I really do not believe these polls and I beleive that there is this certain group of people that is not being polled like myself who does not have a land line and gets by a cell phone. I believe that MSM is rooting for Hillary but coming primaries, i think we will pull off a surprise. We the cellphone people are going to carry the day. Mark my words and GO OBAMA.

Obama is a gifted political figure and it's clear that America would thrive under his leadership. He is also extremely courageous and shouldn't have to deal with those with small minds who can't understand his amazing potential. I can think of a lot of words to describe the man; charismatic, smart, rational, inspiring– the color of his skin seems rather incidental.

Its a great answer, and reminiscent of a line from his famous speech at the Democratic convention in 2004, when he talked about the subtle bigotry of calling a black kid who does well in school "too white"

This is basically a more politically correct way of leveling the same bigotry. I've heard people say, "well, he's not the descendant of a slave!", but that's garbage, I think. I'd say it has more to do with the fact that Obama went to Harvard, is eloquent and ambitious, and successful. And in our soft bigotry, we see those as "white" characteristics. An authentically black man would come through a state school, would talk with more cadence or more colloquially, would be more combative of the white establishment and, as a result, less successful. This is our societal view of the black man (at its more generous end), so someone exceeding those stereotypes is labeled as too white, or not black enough.

Its sad, really.

You are rite on. He has rung the bell. He is bringing to the forefront the topic that needs to be flushed out into the open where it can be seen for what it is. It is a subject that has perplexed me all of my adult life. What makes it even more frustrating is that it seems to be at the core of our nature. We watch other cultures rise and prosper while we angrily begrudge their suceess. This is an example of how we are able to hinder the efforts of someone who in helping himself will also be helping all of us. Seems to me we have some more bonds to break free of. Narrow mindedness and short sightedness may be good places to start. Here is a man that has already broken the glass ceiling and instead of running interference we are tackling him from behind. We have been and continue to be our own worst enemy and until we can focus our energies on working together as a race similar to the those who we are so envious of, we will always be struggling to to keep each other down instead of supportive to help each other up. I am not especially political but getting behind Obama should be a "no brainer" . He is going to face enough other challenges. He should not have to worry about being accepted for what he obviously is, an intelligent black man who wants to be President of the United States.

I am so sick of even hearing and discussing he is black. Why should everyone stand up to defend he is black or say how great he is because he answered this question "right" about him being black.

Personally I am a republican so I love it. Dems keep hating on each other…

If race wasn't and isn't an issue why are we talking about it? Also, lets please not forget that black people can be prejudice too.

He's educated, well spoken, intelligent, attractive, sophisticated, and able to communicate effectively with a diverse population. The feeling that Obama is not "black enough" is another demonstration of the self-hatred of so many in the black community.

I am voting for Barack just because he is black. I hate that Black people question his "blackness." It is so ridiculous. Finally, a great black candidate comes around and black people won't vote for him because of this. Any other race would support a candidate of the same race without question. Why can't black people do that? Besides that he is intelligent and I believe, well suited for the position. My family and I support Barack 100%.

I could not agree more!

Ethnic groups in the USA are composed of the following percentages:
White 81.7%, Black 12.9%, Asian 4.2%, Amerindian and Alaska native 1%, native Hawaiian and other Pacific islander 0.2% (2003 est.)
note: a separate listing for Hispanic is not included because the US Census Bureau considers Hispanic to mean a person of Latin American descent (including persons of Cuban, Mexican, or Puerto Rican origin) living in the US who may be of any race or ethnic group (white, black, Asian, etc.)
[CIA Factbook, cia.gov, 2007].

I THINK HE SAID IT ALL. I AM EMBARRASED FOR OBAMA THAT WE, EVEN IN THE YEAR 2007, CANNOT GET PAST THE CRABS IN THE BASKET ROUTINE. JUST AS WE,MEANING MINORITIES,LISTEN AND JUDGE WHITE CANDIDATES BY THEIR POLITICAL PLATFORMS AND NOT THEIR COLOR WE DO NOT OFFER THAT SAME RESPECT TO SENATOR/PROFESSOR/PRESIDENTIAL HOPEFUL OBAMA. CUDOS TO YOU OBAMA AND YOUR RESPONSE. TO THE AL SHARPTONS WHOM ASKED THAT SAME QUESTION, I SAY THANKS ALOT B/C YOU MAKE WHAT NON MINORITIES THINK OF MINORITIES JUST A LITTLE MORE VIVID!

On Thursday, Hillary Clinton was asked "Are you Black enough?"
On Friday, Barack Obama is asked the same question. Were any other candidates asked that question? None that I have seen or heard. I very much doubt that informed voters care. The strongest Democratic ticket are the 2 statespersons (?)subjected to this interrogatory. President Clinton was referred to as the first 'Black President'
Personally, I see two individuals of intelligence. I see leadership and the future of the United States.
The Republicans fear a sustained voter backlash (as well they should) There are few weapons they can use to demonize Barack Obama besides not 'Black enough' for Blacks and just 'Black' to regressive whites.
We are the country of the superlative adjective. Countries we consider 'Third World' have routinely elected female leaders, male black leaders and black female leaders. Why do we still even consider the question?

http://www.myspace.com/prophecy617

i think the question for obama is: are you too green?
I don't think so, and he has my vote.

Ron Martin
Fu Hrc, Inc.

As a conservative and a father of an adopted bi-racial son, I have one question: isn't Obama as much white as he is black? If so, why is he always called the "black candidate?"

As a 29 year old African American male from Orange County (CA), who grew up in an all white community and followed to a predominently white college in La Jolla, I hope that excerpt from Obama's speech makes it to the public. I hope the black community will finally see that only in fully accepting its people in all formats will racism ever truly begin to fade.

Obama…You always seem to reassure me why I am a die hard supporter of you and your policies. I will do whatever I possibly can to get this class act elected. Keep it up my friend.

I am glad Obama finally said what needed to be said. I love our people, and yet sometimes I just get so irritated with us. Why in the world are WE continually asking Barak to defend himself and his "blackness" to us? To me it seems as if we are simply abetting European conversations akin to his "lack of experience". In the same way that he has experience enough to be a Harvard Law School Grad, President of Harvard Law Review, Community Activist, State Senator, Professor and US Senator, he has enough "experience" to be black. Moreover, he really spoke the truth when he said we (black people) need to look within ourselves and ask why this mistrust remains. It is a holdover from enslavement, and was a tool used by the ofay to keep us divided. When will we stop using the tools of the oppressor to keep ourselves in second class status?

he'll be answering this question for the rest of his life. if not about presidency, than about anything else he does in his life. this is the United States of America after all…….

As an outsider looking in, I have been following the '08 Presidential race for some time. Sen. Obama may be considered naive by some of his competitors, but one thing he certainly is not is fearful.
Is this not the defining quality of one who would lead a country as economically and militarily as the U.S.? Though his time in the Senate has been relatively short, Americans would do well to remember that some of the greatest American Presidents have come from strikingly unexpected origins. To be honest, If I were to become a naturalized citizen tomorrow, I would readily vote for the 'upstart' Senator from Illinois.

(For relevance, my mother was born in Moscow, Idaho, circa 1954, so I guess I may not qualify to comment on an entirely American affair, but for me patriotism flares in my soul when I see the democratic process at work…

I don't care if the candidate is black, white, yellow or a female. Just get Bush the hell out and get someone of sound judgment and character in there. Let us restore the reputation of our great nation. I was just traveling for weeks throughout Europe and they hate us! It was humiliating and sad.

Here Here… you go Obama, that is why you have my vote and not a color in the rainbow can stop it!

Good stuff. We should no longer be a country that identify people as black, white or any other race…but unfortunately, that's where we're still at. People blind to the human being that lies in all of us, like to isolate themselves on petty physical differences and not what unites us at the core. Barack Obama is a good man who gives us hope in that we are all struggling together, as Americans. If those who dwell on division have the majority say in this country then we are a nation at odds, never to come out of the dark fear that many of us live in. I can only hope that Barack Obama reads this, knowing that he has my backing as someone that believes his word and vision. Any others that see this and have idea to the contrary, I can only hope they look in their hearts and envision life void of hope. Put this on AC/360 and let the country know how I feel. We can only be one together…anything else is critical mass.

As much as I like Senator obama, and in fact I think he is far more intelligent and capable than many of the people that have held the office of he presidency, I don't think the question is whether he is black enough. The question that was asked and never answered was, is America ready for a black president? Sadly, my answer is NO. Can't believe all those southerners and mid-west red necks would vote for a black person even if he or she is 100 times more qualified than our current president!

I don't care what color Obama or anyone else is as it simply doesn't matter. What is important is charactor and core beliefs. Years ago many said that charactor didn't matter, but sorry Bill, it does. I am willing to vote for any race, color or sex if they have good solid charactor and a set of inner core beliefs that dictate their decisions. Situational ethics we have learned are simply unacceptable.

Well, I'm impressed again….at the beginning of the early primary season, I will admit that I was for Clinton. I have to also admit, however, that after the past few weeks I'm beginning to warm up to Obama…he'll probably win me over soon.

Well spoken, well handled. Cool as a cucumber. The race issue is a hot one, but I believe that Obama uses the issue to highlight his perspectives positively. He asks black america very openely why there is mistrust, and will probably win more over when they can't find a viable reason.

Except there is one reason, he's a politician.

Yes. I agree. Obama nailed it. This is the man who should be our next president.

Who the hell cares what color anyones skin is… If they can do the job, it just doesnt matter. Ugh… The 21st century and we havent evolved a bit. What a shame. You never hear this issue in European countries. What a disgrace. Grow the hell up America and get with the times!!!

Let there be no doubt that this guy is a once in a lifetime politician that America would be foolish not to utilize as its Chief Executive!

yes, exactly

The choice of who or who is not black enough or who is or is not Christian, Jewish, Muslim or any other religion is a question that survives only because of peoples biggotry. Politics in the US seems to be more about racial, ethnic and religeous devides than what is actually good for the people. Ideally his color should have no bearing on his popularity but because the US has so much insecurity and paranoia ingrained in its foundation all the things that shouldn't matter are the only things that do matter.

A question of race. How truly socially backwards we can be as American's. This does not speak of the few that are color-blind, but indeed we are still in the midst of this discussion.

Mr. Obama speaks profoundly and from the heart and in this instance asked a question right back to the heart of the matter. May he be a strong leader for this country, the likes of which have not been seen in generations.

What is black enough, Do just want a black president or do we want a President that will lead this country back to where it should be

What is the "right" answer for any candidate? Do you expect a candidate to say, "I'm not black enough." Its stupid to ask and even more stupid to answer.

I keep asking this and no one can give me a straight answer.

You're are absolutely right he nailed it. Awesome job buddy.

He's married to a Black Woman, he has Black Daughters, he looks Black despite being Bi-racial. he's provided programs in Chicago's inner city that would help lift Black people up, so yes he is, however if he was a more stereotypical black, such as other past Black Candidates, then he wouldn't stand a chance of being elected, because only some blacks would vote for him, and most likely no one else of any other race would. The truth is this, he can't concern himself only with Black America and be President of all of America, he has to be aware of All America, and his bi-racial background plays into that. His resume makes him a great candidate for all of America, and his skin color should not matter, but where 300 or so years from skin color issues disappearing in America.

Agreed. I am so tired of this question coming up over and over again. I'm a white American male of European descent, and this "black enough" issue is an insult to my intelligence and that of every other American, of any heritage. It doesn't matter to me what his ethnicity is or what religion his ancestors were part of, what matters to me is the man and the issues. To ask "Is he black enough?" is no less offensive than asking if he is "white enough." Anyone asking this question ought to be embarrassed and ashamed, and it certainly has no place in the media.

Senator Obama will make an enduring President of the USA. He is what this country needs - a leader who says it as it is - who gets to the root of any issue. Keeping it real. Go Obama!

As a Canadian I don't understand the relevance of skin color or sexual orientation in politics. I think anyone who categorizes in this manner is really narrow-minded and consequently unable to make any rational decision when voting. Their views become skewed and I fear what they'll base their final decision on -this I find really scary. I believe we should open our minds to LISTEN to what all the candidates are saying and then QUESTION them intensely. Do not accept rhetoric - LISTEN for what they believe in, and ask does this sound like someone I can trust? Choose honestly, America, so the world won't have to experience ever again who you voted in the last 8 years. Shame on you.

I'd say the real question is: "Is America ready for another individual with the intelligence, skill, drive, and decency of Martin, Jack, and Bobby?" The answer is not just yes but we are long overdue. Obama in 2008.

He finally addressed the issue. Thats a start. His creditability inched up a notch.

Great call from Mr. Obama. A call for us to look within ourselves for what drives us and the way we think. Enough said.

As a black man, I can truly agree with what Obama said. I feel that we were conditioned this way. Made to think subconsiously not to put our trust in one another. I hope that one day that we can pick ourselves up again, not just by one's self, but with each of us giving the other brother a hand. Only then can we finally start to trust each other again.

I support Barack and I don't think the issue is one that is dominated by race. I didn't have to ask is he black enough…Michelle and those girls give a good insight that he's man enough. What I will say - after making my first cash donation to a political campaign, is he moderate enough? With less than 24 hrs. since doing a dance around civil unions and the rights of marriage without being marriage - my questions are quite different. My vote can be lost on a firm stance in belief. I don't see how you reconcile I am Christian with a dance surrounding civil unions. Anyone who Rev. Sharpton critiques daily was worthy of my attention long ago. Many of our votes are now Barack's - to solidly win, or to gray area lose.

will skin color or the moral and mental make up of a black president rule? Look into the eyes of all our presidental canidates and ask yourself which one would you want as president to make our decisions, the eyes are the windows
to the soul not the mouth. I will vote for what I think is inside a canidate, not what color skin or sex that they are, may God help our choice.

Roland, This country has always had strange racial qualifications.Mr. Obama hit the nail on the head about one of these. I am a minority, a Native American and have always been curious why we Indians are always asked if we are "full bloods", when if you have any African blood in you, then you are immediately consigned to Black racial category.Both of those racial barometers stem from late nineteenth century politics. One to limit Indians from receiving their treaty rights and the other to effect voter registration in the South. In todays world of racial and ethic mixing, in America's melting pot,racial labels have become more and more obsolete. Its about the culture and heritage you choose to identify yourself with and honor, not about blood percentiles, skin shades and old stereotypes. Let Mr. Obama run as an American and keep the race out of it.

Perhaps I am missing the point. But doesn't worrying about Senator Obama's "blackness" miss the point entirely when it somes to race?

A persons "blackness" or "whiteness" is just another wedge to keep the races apart, and shouldn't matter at all. There is a group of people that worry about "whiteness", they are called Klansman and Nazis…and I don't want another one of them in the White House.

If I vote for Senator Obama it will be because of his demonstrated ability to lead and inspire the country, not because of his color.

Why aren't we asking white candidates are they "white enough?" I agree with Barack it's a stupid fixation. We should move on to much more important issues

Obama's in-depth comments are very insightful and do get to the root of a "black perception" problem. Yet he still failed to answer the reporter's question - which was "Why do you think America is ready for a black president?"…. I would answer that "we don't know for sure yet if America is ready for a black president - but America is less concerned about color than about qualifications & experience - and based on Obama's popularity thus far - he's betting that America is ready for a fresh, young, articulate, insightful and optimistic president regardless of color."

Americans are not fool enough and Americans can't be fool enough to not understand your forgging comments against Sen. OBAMA.cnn workers should remark these, a successful man is that man who has fulfilled God's goal and purpose in his life.you can not change the past or destiny,but you can ruin the present by worrying over the future.God bless America.

This is why Obama has so much appeal.

He ASKS questions that are intelligient and necessary. He is right to question the media who have always been the ones to ask the hard questions and cannot any longer for fear of losing their "jobs."

He THINKS. Yes, THINKS. Unlike our present President who acts without THOUGHT especially to consequence.

I just don't understand that in this day and age we are in, why there must be a question of color. Who cares, the questions should be what are you going to do to help America, to help the health care, to help or education, what are you going to do about the war.
I think the issue of color is obsurd, you could be purple, yellow or green I would not care, just help us in this time of need and get our country back on track.

It is naive to think that Obama's 'blackness' will not come up again. America is divided along racial lines quite deeply. If indeed the issue does not come up again, then it will not be because people have accepted him, but because people have decided to ignore him. As long as the demographics of the US reflects more than 50% white Caucasian population, America will not see a black President.

The only certainty in the American system of elections is that as Americans, we get the leaders we deserve. There was a time, long ago, when only wealthy powerful white males could vote. That was shameful. It's now equally shameful that an election process crippled by special interests and an astronomical pricetag reduces the level of public discourse to an emotional rather than intellectual level. Candidates can't afford to address American citizens with thoughtful rhetoric because American voters don't understand rhetoric. We understand quizzes, gotchas, consistency and categorization. We all secretly want the "right" person in office, but the litmus tests are preposterous.

We must all learn to place a higher value on people than we do on things or even ideals.

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.

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?

Write on target! Merci.

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.

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..

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Touche.

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?