September 18, 2007
Posted: September 18th, 2007 05:40 AM ET

50 Cent told Time Magazine he likes Sen. Hillary Clinton.

WASHINGTON (CNN) - Much of the hip-hop community seems to be embracing Sen. Barack Obama in the race for the White House, but rapper 50 Cent may prefer the Illinois Democrat's chief rival.

The multi-platinum star born Curtis Jackson told Time Magazine he isn't backing any particular candidate for president, but also noted that he "like[s]” Hillary Clinton, D-New York.

"I think she was already our president once," he joked, referencing the New York Democrat's eight years as first lady.

But, as CNN reported last month, Obama seems to be the candidate causing the most excitement amongst the rap industry - landing on the cover of Vibe Magazine, getting shout-outs in some of the most popular hip-hop singles, and recently meeting with mega-star Ludacris.

TIME.com: 10 Questions for 50 Cent

Filed under: Barack Obama • Hillary Clinton


That Guy, That, Place   October 5th, 2007 12:53 pm ET

Lol that might have been the smartest or dumbest move ever, think about it hillery clinton "supported by gangster rappers"...lol i can see those whtie votes decreasing.

Bea, Hoboken, NJ   September 19th, 2007 12:25 pm ET

Bea – Hoboken, NJ

You wrote, "So? These people are also US citizens and have a right to vote for whichever candidate they choose. "

Actually Bea, convicted felons (Fleiss, 50 Cent, etc) do NOT have the right to vote. The law is clear of felons losing their right to vote, losing their right to own a firearm, etc.

The problem in many past elections is known felons VOTING for democrat candidates.

PS – so you've never heard the saying, "Birds of a feather…."??

Posted By Henry Tucker, Ga : September 18, 2007 6:23 pm

I'm aware that 50 Cent cannot vote, but the others who can have as much right to vote for any candidate they choose just as the rest of the population. And no, I don't believe that "birds of a feather" applies to this specific situation. The fact is that those in the entertainment industry are more accepting of other people's lifestyles and tend to vote for Democrats more than for Republicans.

Henry Tucker, Ga   September 18th, 2007 6:23 pm ET

Bea – Hoboken, NJ

You wrote, "So? These people are also US citizens and have a right to vote for whichever candidate they choose. "

Actually Bea, convicted felons (Fleiss, 50 Cent, etc) do NOT have the right to vote. The law is clear of felons losing their right to vote, losing their right to own a firearm, etc.

The problem in many past elections is known felons VOTING for democrat candidates.

PS – so you've never heard the saying, "Birds of a feather...."??

Bob, Oakland, CA   September 18th, 2007 4:35 pm ET

Wow what a quality endorsement... A guy who makes money acting like he is some tough thug and encourages that kind of attitude in others. That is almost as good as getting the endorsement from Castro

Eric, from THE Republic of Texas   September 18th, 2007 2:35 pm ET

Yes, but has anyone gotten the opinion of the all-knowing, all-seeing, ever-present Vanilla Ice?

Because, like Mr. 15 Cents, his highly-educated and worldly opinion REALLY matters to me.

Word to your mother.

Zoe, Corpus Christi,tx   September 18th, 2007 2:15 pm ET

Re:Commment posted by Mitchell from Austin
Surely your comment is facetious. If not, do you have an emperical basis for your theory?

Paul, Sioux Falls, SD   September 18th, 2007 1:45 pm ET

Who cares what 50 Cent has to say? He's a rap artist. Big deal.

Bea, Hoboken, NJ   September 18th, 2007 1:44 pm ET

LOL ! Hillary is amassing quite the list of endorsers; rappers, strippers , madams, Hollywood's liberal elitists. Impressive. Posted By Cary -Lowell, IN : September 18, 2007 12:12 pm

So? These people are also US citizens and have a right to vote for whichever candidate they choose. If all of you who posted similar remarks are inferring that she's "guilty by association" and is tainted by their support, it ain't going to work!

Pam A S'Side PEI   September 18th, 2007 1:41 pm ET

Dear CNN
Please enforce the rule below or just delete it. What is required by one commenter should be required by all.
Lets be fair.

Comments that do not include your name, city and state will not be posted.

"Trailor trash has a way of sticking together.."

Posted By slinkymalinky : September 18, 2007 10:50 am

Who are you calling Trailer Trash, Thou Coward of Anonimity?
It is so elightening to see these slanderous comments from an obvious sub zero species that isn't even brave enough to post their name, city and state like the rest of the commenters.

A coward that needs the safety of a computer screen to slander others.
If you haven't the bravery to include your name leave the space for someone worthy of commenting.

Angela, LA, CA   September 18th, 2007 1:27 pm ET

Sydney,

As a woman, why on earth would you like this guy? He's a disgusting sexist.

Ken, Austin TX   September 18th, 2007 1:00 pm ET

Just because 50 cent is a rapper does not mean that he does have the right to exercise his freedom of speech without having to face such scruitiny. To all of you people are who so disgusted because of the fact that 50 happens to like Hillary...you should be glad that he is even slightly interested in politics. He could have been using that time to promote violence (as you all say). Let's not forget that 50 cent is a prominent businessman...more than what any of you people will ever get to. And why all of you are so quick to slander the hip hop industry you should take a close look at hip hop and I guarantee that you will find politics is a far more dirty and scandalous business than hip hop.

Cary -Lowell, IN   September 18th, 2007 12:12 pm ET

LOL ! Hillary is amassing quite the list of endorsers; rappers, strippers , madams, Hollywood's liberal elitists . Impressive.

Jeff Old Bridge,NJ   September 18th, 2007 12:10 pm ET

50 Cent's opinon on ANYTHING isn't worth a plugged or "unplugged" nickle.

JB Boston MA   September 18th, 2007 11:50 am ET

First and foremost. . . although I cannot read peoples minds, based on their posts, nothing criticizes fiddy's race, it is his past. Yes he made 500 mil (not 300, Coke bought vitamin water for 5 bil, fiddy owned 10%), but the GANG LIFE that he readily admits to. Just the other day he lamented that now that he is famous, he can no longer go around shooting people. He has admitted in the past to shooting people. The guy should be in jail. How can anyone defend this disgusting human being???? I am sure Hill will keep his money! And isn't it interetsing that race only becomes an issue when those attempting to defend him post.

Sam, ATL GA   September 18th, 2007 11:10 am ET

Hey 50¢, endorse Rudy and see if that will kill his campaign. Next say you like Fred Thompson.
Are you people high? Of course he has a favorite candidate.

slinkymalinky   September 18th, 2007 10:50 am ET

Trailor trash has a way of sticking together..

therealist   September 18th, 2007 10:45 am ET

Is there any doubt that Hillary isn't turning away his campaign donations?

But of course, its really no different than taking Barbara, Whoopi or Rosey's money..., is it??

Chris   September 18th, 2007 10:40 am ET

I agree with you Mitchell. It is not our political system that is hated (well, a bit maybe.. haha), it is the disgusting culture that comes out of our mouths. We really deserve to good spanking by another country. We've misbehaved greatly over the past 100 years.

By Aubrey, NYC – You're a strange chicka. You should know who the market audience is here. We are all young(er) X and Y generations. We have no clue about what happened during the rolling stone era. If you want to delude your mind and soul with trash, go for it. I'll stick with instrumental and gospel music. Many of us don't even have children so I'm not really sure what's going on in your head.

My post(s) are not in reference to his opinion. To each their own. I just saw a chance to put forth more good news. Hopefully one day you who approve of this rapper will come to your senses about his demonic attributes.

Jesus loves you all and wants you to talk with him. Straight forward. Turn from the evil that lies in ALL of the music industry. You don't have to go to church, just go somewhere quiet and talk with him. Don't be proud about it.

Shane, Queens, NY   September 18th, 2007 10:38 am ET

Instead of blaming the Hip Hop Industry how about you blame the parents and our poor school system. I think some you guys are upset that 50 cent is black and he is rich, I could be wrong. What's the big deal if he endorses Hillary Clinton, so what. You make him out to be a white collar criminal which is 100% worst than what he says in his music, remember Enron. Rock Music has the same connotations as hip hop music. Everyone sits on there high horse and judges him for a little comment he makes in a magazine. They say you shouldn't throw stones if you live in a glass house. If you don't want hear about 50 cent, just click to the next page, it's not that hard. On another I'm not a conservative or a liberal I'm an American. I hate the way we throw around labels.

Bubba, Swainsboro GA   September 18th, 2007 10:29 am ET

We're criticizing 50¢ for his race now? Can I play too? I think he should have been half Chinese and half albino Watusi. But I thought we were here to tell him how to vote and what to say in his raps, plus blame him for the stuff he raps about. Maybe if he'd been Hispanic and called himself Fifty-centavo you'd like him better, eh?

Bea, Hoboken, NJ   September 18th, 2007 10:21 am ET

Oh please people, grow up!!! Who cares who 50 Cent or Oprah Winfrey support? Is anybody really going to vote for a candidate only because their favorite rapper or talk show hostess endorses that person???? What a vapid way of choosing a president......

Name, City and State   September 18th, 2007 10:05 am ET

Quotes from Aubrey in NYC:

"To read this vitriol illustrates how deeply racist this country still is."

"...drug dealing and using is predominantly done by white America..."

"...your time has come and is soon to be over."

I'm not saying you can't have an opinion. But people who argue against racism probably shouldn't use racism in their own arguments. Besides, who was criticizing 50 Cent for his race? Seemed like it is his lifestyle that everyone's against.

JD, New York City   September 18th, 2007 9:56 am ET

Ive got nothing against 50 cent. Im 22, I listen to his music...mostly when Im at the gym. But seriously, who gives a crap. Who cares what he has to say about anything, especially anything other than his music. And ESPECIALLY, on CNN. This isnt some interview in Blender, its on the front page of cnn.com. The fact that its given that kind of weight implies that the story should have some merit, but apparently not. The fact that this is front page news is pathetic and continues to prove how far the mighty CNN has fallen. Apparently, CNN seems to be competing with itself to become the new E! channel. The rest of the stories on the front page are all sensationalistic garbage as well: Britney Spears bodyguard, youtube and comedians mock OJ Simpson, OJ Simpson, and whatever "man puts rattlesnake in mouth, gets bitten is." Rediculous

Scott, Newport KY   September 18th, 2007 9:55 am ET

Hmmm...Should we still be calling them Billary? Or now that she has top billing, should it be Hillbilly?

MB Tallahasse FL   September 18th, 2007 9:51 am ET

All politics aside, it's heartwarming to know that CNN provides us the braintrust ex-convict "2 bits" to set us straight on the White House race.

Rick, Baltimore, MD   September 18th, 2007 9:51 am ET

CNN is has really become quite a shameful mess!! This morning the 1st story was OJ in Vegas... screw OJ!!! We have troops on the ground all over the place... our borders are wide open... housing is unaffordable for most citizens... etc. etc. etc. Yet all CNN can put in your face is 50 Cent!! CNN PLEASE DIE!!!

Dean, Madison WI   September 18th, 2007 9:47 am ET

Wow. When this was posted yesterday, I wondered if anyone cared about 50 Cent's opinion on the election. Today, it's on the front page.

It's hard to see whether this is intended to help or hurt Hillary. For some reason, I can't help but wonder that some would think this is to help her.

JB Boston, MA   September 18th, 2007 9:46 am ET

It seems to me that all felons are in favor of the Hill Clizzle. If she's courting that group, someone needs to tell her that they legally can't vote!!!! For shizzle!

Bukky, Baltimore, MD   September 18th, 2007 9:46 am ET

Dillon, Denver CO

Like him or not this man has 300 Million in the bank. That is a good business man how ever you look at it. There are people with Wharton degrees that can't claim that.

Now I DONT like 50 cents. But he is not the evil that some of you people make him out to be. Read the article people... THEY ASKED HIM A QUESTION AND HE GAVE AN OPINION.

Is he not allowed to have an opinion because he is a rapper. All he said is that he likes her and you people acting like he is on the campaign trail for her. GET A GRIP PEOPLE. calm down before you all have heart attacks at the thought that a rapper may actually think about politics. Shocking as it may seem to you, rappers have the same cognitive abilities as the rest of us

terika quincy fla   September 18th, 2007 9:42 am ET

well i8 think that he should have been in the cnn cause he is a really great person to me.

Kate, Aurora CO   September 18th, 2007 9:37 am ET

Am I mistaken or was this man a former drug dealer who served time on a felony conviction? Why would you ask someone who they are supporting when they can't even vote? Seriously the most ridiculous thing I've seen in a while.

Simon, Albany NY   September 18th, 2007 9:25 am ET

For all those who have blasted CNN for their putative inability to report "real news", the fact that you have read this story and took the time to comment on it shows the hypocrisy of your statements. Senator Clinton will do much better than the current administration. Additionally, nominating Senator Obama will spell doom for the Democratic party in '08 because, sadly enough, America will not elect a black President in the near future.

DK   September 18th, 2007 9:21 am ET

Are the same jerks p'n and moaning about what a celebrity thinks the same ones who support actor first politician 8th Fred? You people kill me. This guy is permitted his opinion as much as you and I are.

OB of Chicago, Il   September 18th, 2007 9:18 am ET

O. K., but what about the Black students in JENA, la? Nobody is talking about them? Are their lives and this blatant racism newsworthy?

Donnie, Roanoke VA   September 18th, 2007 9:18 am ET

Isn't Hillary all for gun control? Doesn't 50 like shooting people or at least he raps about it. He has no clue.

Bryan, Baton Rouge, LA   September 18th, 2007 9:11 am ET

If people out there really want to base their vote on who 50 cent endorses, they should lose the right to vote.

And it makes me sad that CNN would actually post this with all the political articles, this belongs in entertainment.

Aubrey, NYC   September 18th, 2007 9:05 am ET

To read this vitriol illustrates how deeply racist this country still is. Regardless of what this man has done in his past to demonize him in this way speaks more to the deep seated resentment a large part of American society have towards Hip-Hop stars and Hip-Hop culture. Many older white Americans feel that these Hip-Hop stars are not deserving of the riches that they earn; that's right "Earn." We live in a market economy; supply and demand or do we sometimes have selective memories. When Mr. Lay and his buddies at Enron defrauded thousands of people and ruin their lives and all they'd work for, I didn't see this kind of condemnation. Not to mention, drug dealing and using is predominantly done by white America, or do we not know those stats either. Besides if you don't want to hear what 50 Cent and his ilk have to say, stop giving you children money to by his albums, cloth, and numerous products he endorses. But you can't because your time has come and is soon to be over. When you came up listen to the Rolling Stone and their contemporaries, who your parents did not approve of, could you be stopped. No. And neither can 50 Cent and Hip-Hop, because they are the future and you are the past. Deal with it.

Carla, Los Angeles, California   September 18th, 2007 9:05 am ET

Why in the world do we even care what 50 cent has to say about anything? CNN please take this story off

Rick Fraatz, Trego WI   September 18th, 2007 9:03 am ET

Was he born "50 cent" or did he just lose a bet? Give me a break. How do I give this guy any validity with a name like this?

Natasha White, San Diego, CA   September 18th, 2007 8:40 am ET

Why shouldn't he be on CNN? This is a free country that has been telling the world that it is so.

Come on guys, don't we think that we need to see 50 Cent as an American who has every right to express his (political) opinion regardless who he is in favor of?

Katie, SC   September 18th, 2007 8:36 am ET

Sorry, but who cares if 50 cent is endorsing Hillary Clinton or any other presidential candidate, for that matter. Why should America care who a rapper votes for? HE'S A RAPPER!

joan   September 18th, 2007 8:25 am ET

Why does CNN print this stuff??? I couldn't care less what anyone in entertainment thinks or who they are supporting!! Most of them can't even read a book!! Why do all these music and Hollywood people think we care about their opinion?? They have no clue how it is to live from paycheck to paycheck and have no idea what it is like to work a real job!!! CNN is becoming People.com and it is such a shame!!

Bubba, Swainsboro GA   September 18th, 2007 7:59 am ET

I never take political advice from a man who's been shot more than three times.

Mitchell, Austin Texas   September 18th, 2007 7:54 am ET

Islamic fundamentalists don't hate America because of George W Bush. They hate America because of Britney Spears, 50-cent, Madonna and P. Diddy.

In the eyes of religious Muslims, Western culture is the height of decadence. They do not refer to the USA as “the Great Satan” because of our military power, but rather because they find Western popular culture to be a disgraceful affront to nearly every value that they hold sacred.

They see their culture threatened by the West's great pursuit of the false gods of wealth and celebrity status, sexual liberation and hedonism.

The curious paradox is that the Hollywood idiots who rail the loudest against GWB are in fact a large part of the problem. They will also be the first to get beheaded when the Taliban takes over.

tommmy g   September 18th, 2007 7:50 am ET

thanks cnn. i cant think of anyone more appropriate to help influence our young people towards a candidate. should i stop getting news from this site now or wait until january?

Patty, Tampa FL   September 18th, 2007 7:45 am ET

Rapper 50 cent weighs in on politics and that makes news with CNN. Let's really stop and think about this. I'll look later to see if you print what Mary Kate Olsen thinks. GET SERIOUS! Oh hey, I heard Cuba's Castro also digs Dems! They've come a long way baby!!

Patrick Bradley, St. Louis, MO   September 18th, 2007 7:41 am ET

Well, I for one am not going to blindly follow 50's endorsement. I need to know who Nelly and Snoop are endorsing before making up my mind!

Tim, Cincinnati, OH   September 18th, 2007 6:29 am ET

Oh, please! You've hit rock bottom with this story. When we take our lead from rappers whose music is about violence and drugs, then we've come to the end of civilization as we know it.

sonya, atlanta, ga   September 18th, 2007 5:28 am ET

one gangster loving another gangster.

Brian Tampa, FL   September 18th, 2007 4:37 am ET

Another hood rat will be voting for Billary, shocking!

Anonymous   September 18th, 2007 4:26 am ET

you are all a bunch of people that just can't stand her because she is a woman.if you are so smart why don't you tell what should be done to get this country where is suppose to be.you criticizes her for taking ideas from europe,but europe is a lot more emancipated than us. I'm glad 50 cent had the guts to say he likes her,

Twig, arrington, TN   September 18th, 2007 4:17 am ET

As a young American male, I am tired of seeing the truth hidden from the populace. Hillary is socialism lite. She is for illegals, so she can have a subserviant class ready to vote straight down her socialistic line. I can see it now: Tons of poor people voting in any politician who hands out "entitlements." All sorts of people with no education... but wait, the Dream Act! Yea that's it. Let's give people who aren't from this nation dang-near-free higher education, when lower class and middle-class Americans (like myself: black, white, brown, yellow) can't get a college degree without going into debt. Bigger government and more taxes is what Hillary is really saying. The Federal government was set up to provide for the states what they could not provide for themselves. We need to stick to the Constitution and the Bill of Rights and quit playing with Socialism. We all know how that story ends.

Joe Smith Bucca, Iraq   September 18th, 2007 4:11 am ET

I think it might be political correct to say; "Who" cares what a convicted Drug Dealer has to say about the upcoming Presidential Selection?"

WOW,
Concerned Soldier

Gary, Seattle, WA   September 18th, 2007 1:59 am ET

I don't understand all this anger. It's not like he called a press conference, a reporter asked him a question and he responded. Politely too. He didn't even make a controversial choice, he picked the front runner.

Rick, Kansas City, MO   September 18th, 2007 1:31 am ET

This presents a problem. Who do I vote for? The candidate supported by Oprah or the candidate supported by 50 Cent or the candidate supported by Mickey Mouse or.....

Whatever happened to actual news?
Pathetic, CNN. Pathetic.

Bernard, Scotch Plains NJ   September 18th, 2007 12:50 am ET

Once again CNN manages to lose even more credibility, who would have thought it.

Calvin Smith Louisville Ky.   September 18th, 2007 12:46 am ET

Barbara Streisand and 50 cent my respected political advisers. They have inspired me to vote for Hillary.

David, Roseburg OR   September 18th, 2007 12:44 am ET

To all those that state CNN is endorsing Hillary this article should prove that they are not doing so, that they are instead just printing the most controversial information so they can compete with the National Enquirer for readership. If they were indeed trying to endorse her they would never mention this endorsement of a .50 piece.

His endorsement of her is a downfall, not an endorsement that will bring her extra votes. Please all of you that refuse to see beyond the end of your nose, watch carefully what each news organization has to say as to political leaders of our country as they are all just going for headlines, trying to beat each other in the race for the most controversial headline. These news sources are truly not news sources anymore, they are instead playing the same game as the tabloid newspapers to see who can get the most controversial headlines so you pick up their paper first. Live and learn as the news sources play these games.

Bryan, Los Angeles, CA   September 18th, 2007 12:21 am ET

"Obama seems to be the candidate causing the most excitement amongst the rap industry":

Hmm, a black man comes out for the white woman, rather than the other black man, and this is how CNN dances around why they think it's news worthy. "Rap industry" sounds a whole lot like coding. Gimme a break, CNN.

Tricia M Charlottetown PEI   September 17th, 2007 11:12 pm ET

Wow – add another political heavyweight endorsement to Hillary:

- Hollywood Madam Heidi Fleiss
- Porn Star Jenna Jameson
- SF Mayor Gavin Newsom (had affair with his campaign manager's wife)
- LA Mayor Villaraigosa (having affair with News Anchor)
- Norman Hsu (wanted felon, $850k in illegal donations)
- Fidel Castro says she's unbeatable
- Magic Johnson
- 50 cent
- Henry Tucker GA

This from the same man who emphatically frowned upon all the criticism being spewn at Cheney regarding his hypocritical backing of Gen. Petreas. The man he touted as honourable and truthful. And apparently forgot to mention a Bush and Cheney Fall Guy! Ya gotta love how they repay their loyal subjects.

Yes Hillary is endorsed by all walks of life at every social level. Indentifying clearly that she is the Senator and Candidate who works on behalf of ALL AMERICANS. Unlike the present Administration who only works on behalf of the Big Corporations, Oil Fidels, Republican Cronies and Christians of the same tainted cloth.

And let's not forget to note: Barack Obama also received a large campaign contribution from Norman Hsu that he also opted to return.

And the wheels go round and round and round.

Will, OH   September 17th, 2007 10:52 pm ET

Well, I'll never insult a man for having his own opinion. I don't follow 50 closely enough to understand or have an opinion on his political views so I won't waste my breath. But I will say that some opinions are better left unsaid (maybe even my own). For the love of everything that makes this country what it is, please research who you vote for or don't vote! Don't expect 50 Cent or any other person to tell you who or what to vote for. Seriously, if you do, don't bother voting.

Thomas Smith, Bella Vista, Arkansas   September 17th, 2007 10:44 pm ET

Why is the "hip-hop" community supporting Obama? One reason: racism. Given a choice, most black people will vote for a black person no matter how good or bad they may be. Look at New Orleans for example. A far superior white candidate ran against the incumbent(who totally screwed up when Katrina hit), and the black incumbent won. I would bet that the same thing in reverse would happen too! (most white people would vote for a white person over a black person no matter what). IT HAPPENS BOTH WAYS. Why doesn't CNN and other MSM report on this??

Junanito, Washington, DC   September 17th, 2007 10:40 pm ET

Some comments here are stupid and even racist, but what else is new? Rappers are "anti-white"? LMAO...that's a good one.

I don't personally care for 50's music, though I'm a hiphop head. His business acumen on the other hand is quite impressive..according to Forbes, he is now worth almost $400 million, so hey...he isn't an idiot.

Having said that..50 can't even vote...he a felon, so I dunno why his opinion even counts.

CNN should have spent the time to cover Obama's speech today on Wall Street, which had many hedge fund manager squirming in their seats. Obama did not sugarcoat his fiery speech, calling Wall Street out.

CNN...you have to do better.

Vivek Saxena, Raleigh, NC   September 17th, 2007 10:28 pm ET

Although I do not support Clinton over Obama, I have an incredible amount of respect for Fifty. He did something I will never be able to do. He pulled up his britches, got on the grind and escaped the hood. Now he sits in a mansion with millions of dollars. You can hate all you want, but he is a role model to a lot of us. He may be cocky, stubborn and arrogant, but he is still a top notch boss hogg and that is the outright truth.

Vivek Saxena, Raleigh, NC   September 17th, 2007 10:26 pm ET

I am for Obama, but I am proud to see 50 Cent on CNN. I am certainly not his biggest fan, but I got love for the brotha cuz he doin' it BIG!

Kelly, USA   September 17th, 2007 10:17 pm ET

Oh STOP IT CNN. 50 Cent has been banned from some US stages as well as Canada and even some European stages.

Stop promoting a THUG. Please!

Trollmaster, CA   September 17th, 2007 9:58 pm ET

Who cares what a buck and a quarter thinks? When are they going to ask Mike Tyson for his wisdom regarding this election?

Rusty Bryan,Texas   September 17th, 2007 9:55 pm ET

WHO CARES?? This man is a convicted FELON... he has no rights to vote! This guy is a 2 bit street thug who happens to be able to compose lyrics.. so now his opinion is valid????e local Prison and do a poll there.. While CNN is at it why don't ya run right over to the local Prison and see who they endorse.

Anonymous   September 17th, 2007 9:46 pm ET

Why do we care about what Curtis Jackson thinks. He is a convicted felon and cannot vote.

Case, VA   September 17th, 2007 9:45 pm ET

50 Supports Hillary...He would..same person who denounced rappers who "flood there rhymes" with intellectual knowledge. He wouldn't support Obama. He has always had an issue with Black men who don't fit into his narrow view possibilities. This truly isn't note worthy. Virtually no actual voters are 50 fans but some voters would listen to Common, Mos def, Talib Kweli all of whom support Obama.

James, Newark, DE   September 17th, 2007 9:29 pm ET

50 Cent does not represent true hip-hop so one can hardly say that 50 cent is a personification of the hip-hop community...and despite this rather worthless endorsement by a man who basically helped sell out hip-hop, I find no compelling reason to vote for Hillary Clinton....Bill Clinton I like, Hillary not so much...if anyone should be sitting in the White House after the 2008 election, it should be either Obama, Richardson, or perhaps Biden (if one chooses to overlook his "talk before thinking" philosophy).

Now, if a truely genuine hip-hop icon such as Talib Kweli, Mos Def, or Common were to officially endorse a candidate, now that would be an event worthy of an article on the CNN website. But 50 Cent? This is the same man who, if I'm not mistaken, defended Bush during the whole Hurricane Katrina tragedy in 2005. So why should we have to listen to someone with such little intelligence?

Patrick, Kansas City, Missouri   September 17th, 2007 9:21 pm ET

Who cares what this guy thinks! Just another moron trying to influence the race towards his own agenda. CNN, Hollywood only cares to keep America in the gutter with negative information to discredit President Bush. Thankfully, regular Americans can see through the glitz and glamor of the liberal media and liberal Hollywood and disregards 100% of the fake endorsements. CNN, wise up and do some real stories, not fluff!

David, Peekskill, NY   September 17th, 2007 9:20 pm ET

Well, there you have it! Just another great reason to vote for our future tyrant in waiting Mrs. Hillary Rodham Clinton.

Scrape the bottom, vote for Rodham!

Patrick Peavy, Plano TX   September 17th, 2007 8:52 pm ET

I wonder how many racist people out there don't realize their double standard. You criticize rap and hip hop for "glorifying violence" yet celebrate a show like The Sopranos. I just wish some people would stop making me ashamed to be "white".

Patrick Peavy, Plano TX   September 17th, 2007 8:50 pm ET

I think it is awesome he is speaking out in support of political candidates. I hope more people with the ability to connect with younger people,especially talented musicians with name recognition like his,get into the race by voicing their opinions. 50 Cent I don't like rap at all but I have a lot of respect for you for speaking out in support of my two favorite presidential candidates of all time.

David, Bath NY   September 17th, 2007 8:43 pm ET

What a joke.

Travis, Peoria IL   September 17th, 2007 8:11 pm ET

I'm glad this is where Americans are getting their voting advice from. Hip-Hop artists. Because they definitely know what they are talking about. I'm 100% sure that gansta rappers spend all of their time sitting around watching C-Span and then debating the issues surrounding each candidate with each other.

Roberto, Orlando, FL   September 17th, 2007 8:06 pm ET

To those people writing, "Who cares what 50 thinks?"

Obviously you do for taking the effort to click on the article, and reply to the post!

There are also many stereotypes flying around the comments, such as "I wonder how many pictures it takes before he put the right finger up," and questioning whether he really was joking that he said Hilary had already been president.

I won't disagree that Hip Hop has had a strong contribution to the negative way in which our young community acts and thinks, but there is no point in crying about it.

50 Cent is a marketing genius, he has my respect.

T.A., Tempe Arizona   September 17th, 2007 7:58 pm ET

Who would ever listen to 50 cent's take on politics. The only economy he understands is the street value of guns and cocaine.

JC Lorton,VA   September 17th, 2007 7:37 pm ET

What a silly article. I like hiphop. But who the heck cares who 50 cent endorses for the '08 elections.

Also, whats up with cnn saying "much" of the hiphop community endorses...

What is much? I dont see a march on washington by hip hop stars or significant reports of contributions buy hip hop stars. They mention a couple of stars and all of a sudden Obama and clinton are gangsta.

Media...gotta luv it

TJ, Las Vegas, NV   September 17th, 2007 7:16 pm ET

So, who cares who he likes? He's a rapper.

Kay, Las Vegas, NV   September 17th, 2007 7:15 pm ET

All of you just need to shut up, obviously someone cares what this man thinks, some one asked him the question and all of us read the artical! He's entitled to his opinion, just as you're entitled to post nonsense on this board. And please, can it with the "Obama is a saint, we have waited since JFK for another candidate to excite us so...". That would be JFK of the "alleged" womanizing, murderous, rapist, Kennedy clan... None of these people are any different than the rest, Republican or Democrat, they all stink of corruption. All of you are ranting and raving about Bush, but you'll be doing it again to the next sap who goes into office and doesn't live up to promises he or she made, knowing they can't be kept, or votes for something your against. The only two politicians in that entire group who tell like it is are Gravel and Paul and what do we all do to repay their honesty??? We label them lunatics and laugh at them. Surely we would never vote for them because they don't have the Hollywood "it" factor. But what's amazing is how many people I talk to secretly agree with their stances and I bet that applies to the other "candidates" as well...remember, you get what you vote for! I'll sit this one out because I can't seem to generate any sort of excitement about any of the obvious choices.

Dillon, Denver CO   September 17th, 2007 6:45 pm ET

As a young black man, I can't believe anyone would defend this thug as being a victim of society or that he's an intelligent business man. He's a convicted felon who promotes violence in his music with who deserves NO respect.

Jim, Macon, GA   September 17th, 2007 6:27 pm ET

Is it a surprise to anyone that "Obama seems to be the candidate causing the most excitement amongst the rap industry"? Rappers are the most racially-charged, anti-white group in America. If a Black candidate announces his candidacy, rappers will vote for him/her, regardless of the candidate's platform. Do any of these rappers even know what he stands for? I would challenge any of them to list Obama's top issues...without first looking at his website. They couldn't do it.

Todd, Layton, Utah   September 17th, 2007 6:26 pm ET

I couldn't care less what the hip-hop community thinks of the race for the White House. They are part of the problem in society, certainly not part of the solution.

Daniel Neeley, Cincinnati, OH   September 17th, 2007 6:24 pm ET

After reading what most have said, I must say that America is shallow. I don't care who endorses who in the cadidacy race, nor do I care about what any musician says. 50 Cent is one of the most intelligent business men out there and despite his arrogance, he's smart in all senses. The music industry portrays him to be what he really isn't... that's called entertainment. Also, his wealth and his fame will carry him futher than any US President.

Before you speak your mind about an issue that most are ignorant to, get your facts straight.

As a teacher, I have tried for years to get 50 Cent to come speak to my youth because when he does speak intelligently, people do listen to him. He has built his empire from the ground up and he's modest.

Roz, Austin, TX   September 17th, 2007 6:23 pm ET

Why is 50 Cent in my face? What he is considered some leader now? wake up people he is a drug dealer turned gangst rapper turned celebrity in my face too much. So he likes Clinton, so what? You know what they say about opinions, does he vote?

Denise, Los Angeles, CA   September 17th, 2007 6:21 pm ET

I think those of you who feel it's your place to discredit this artist in this particular forum are out of line. He's an American citizen, and he served his time for past indiscretions. the fact that he's paying attention to current, relevant events, and getting young people to pay attention as well, is commendable. Rap is not to blame for anything. It is the result.

F.W Shepard   September 17th, 2007 6:10 pm ET

This convicted felon cannot even vote

dave heaselgrave, charlotte, n.c.   September 17th, 2007 6:00 pm ET

50 cent & Ludacris, how about Homar Simpson's and Elmore Fudd's thoughts. This is why I cancelled my subscription to Time magazine. What a joke. What did the Little Mermaid say ? Donald Duck, Barney Fife ??

Terrance from Cincinnati, OH   September 17th, 2007 5:46 pm ET

I’m not a fan of either 50 or Hilary, but I do respect both. However, many who are out of touch of today’s hip hop culture may think differently about 50. He’s simply an entertainer, and for someone to say he’s the cause of the youth’s problems is complete bull. The cause of our youth’s problems is their parents and the communities in which they live. But it doesn’t surprise me that these old middle age’d bastards have a biased opinion about rap, rap lyrics, and the artist who put out these lyrics. Hell, didn’t their parents have a problem with rock and roll? Its all a cycle…

Eduardo, Miami, Florida   September 17th, 2007 5:35 pm ET

May God always bless America!

It's incredible some of the things I read and how people are misinformed and influenced by the "media." Please, learn to read between the lines (and beyond); do your own research and thus form your own opinions.

Thank you.

Maria, Houston   September 17th, 2007 4:10 pm ET

HM/Wash,DC

you might want to subscribe on line to Huffington Post, it is edgy and much more interesting. I don't know your political preferences, but I get my daily news from Lou Dobbs (the only guy worth watching on CNN),Keith Olberman on MSNBC and of course Jon Stewart's Daily Show on Comedy is the intelligent fun. For the painfully accurate depiction of current mainstream media check " Bill Moyers : Buying the War." You can download it on line. It specifically speaks about misleading the public and marketing of the Iraq war, but no doubt the same applies to the manipulation of election. Good luck.

Lance in Monrovia, CA   September 17th, 2007 4:00 pm ET

I just spent the weekend driving 300 miles to go to Nevada, where I canvassed for Obama in 100 degree heat. It was the first time I've done this in my life. I can barely pay my rent but I did it anyway. I found many other people there in similiar circumstances. There were maybe 200 volunteers, 60 of which had also driven from out of state to be there for the weekend.
It was one of the most inspirational experiences of my life. I found old people, even one with a cane, I found young people, many in their early twenties or even teens. I found whole families. I found veterans. I found cholos. I found people of every possible background, all wearing Obama shirts and buttons and carrying eyes that were serious and smiles that were infectious.
We laughed more than I had in ages. We spoke to hundreds of people about the best way to change this country. Barack Obama.
Time after time, as I went from undecided voter to undecided voter's door, I heard people's frustation with politics as usual and I heard their honest desire for change and accountability. I heard people worried about their economy and losing their homes. I heard an old woman speak about losing her healthcare. I heard an ex prostitute talk about how she had to hustle at age 14 because she didn't get an education and was too young to work.
Time after time, I found Obama supporters, or people that at least would listen.
I had an half hour long conversation with one man that had seen his neighborhood succumb to crime over the last six years. He honestly cared about his neighborhood but had only just heard of Obama that week. By the time I left, he was a supporter.
Only Barack Obama has inspired the kind of guts in me and in others like me. He does this because he IS telling the truth. He DOES say things like it is.
No matter how much the big companies and powers that be try to pull him down, they won't be able to. Because Obama has connected to people like me, and like so many of the others I met both volunteering and going door to door. These people see through the b.s. and the political soundbites. They're sick and tired of being told what to think.
Hillary Clinton and the Republican neocons can have as many lobbists and big companies on payroll as they like, but it won't matter, because Barack Obama is starting a movement that will last, one that will not only get him elected but see meaningful change that would be impossible without the will of the people to actually happen.
The powers that be are damned scared people, because they realize that we're actually paying attention for a change, that we're actually out there walking the streets talking about the issues and paving the path of change along with President Obama.
I actually got chased by pit bulls when I went into the wrong gate. Me and two other volunteers literally had to run for our lives and I actually felt the pit bull's cold nose against my shin as I leaped out a gate.
We laughed and laughed about it, and I swear I'd do it all over again and I probably will many more times, because I feel like I'm actually accomplishing something for a change. I'm going to make the country better for my efforts and I'll take on all the pit bulls of the world I have to in order to do it.
Take notice of Barack Obama people. Go out and take charge of your lives for a change. Make some sacrifices and do something.
Obama 08!!!

Wade L., Riverview, New Brunswick, Canada   September 17th, 2007 3:46 pm ET

Please stop printing the opinions of troglodyte thugs like "fitty".This is not newsworthy, and it only encourages them to climb up on their soapbox.

Da Man, New York   September 17th, 2007 2:32 pm ET

Oh, THANK YOU, CNN, THANK YOU. I was waiting for you to report who 50 Cent was supporting. Now I can support Hillary, too.

Does this now make him a responsible citizen?

How about ditching the "No Snitching" message, eh?

Sydney A. Smith, Dallas Texas   September 17th, 2007 2:26 pm ET

I love both 50 & Clinton. They are both considered black sheep and if close minded individuals would sit down and listen to what they say and not judge a book by it's cover you might find both of them pretty interesting and intelligent people. Both of them would not have achieved the level of success they have if they were ignorant people. I support both of them – and I'm a single white female who is college educated.

Go Hillary 2008

Claude, Mesa AZ   September 17th, 2007 2:25 pm ET

One crook endorses another crook. They are a match made in heaven. CNN, get real!

Mike Orlando, FL   September 17th, 2007 2:24 pm ET

No one made a big deal when Oprah endorsed Obama, it surely isn't going to make him the winning candidate. I will sill watch her show. I'm not a big fan of 50 cents music, but he is entitled to a say in the political process, as is every American. He made a great choice!

Michael, Orlando, FL   September 17th, 2007 2:15 pm ET

Why is it such a big deal when a celebrity announces that he likes a candidate. Seems that if 50 announced that he liked Obama, none of ya'll would have a problem. I'm not saying I'm a fan of his music, but I sure am a fan of Hillary. Seems like the Obama camp is up to nothing but a lot of whining, get over it.

Stephen   September 17th, 2007 2:00 pm ET

He actually knows one candidate who is running for President i am impressed. Can he talk about why he likes her, maybe give us a run down of some policy? I can sit here and wait, maybe he can rap some policy for us.

Zack   September 17th, 2007 1:59 pm ET

He obviously really isn't following the election too carefully yet.

Melmack Cleveland, Ohio   September 17th, 2007 1:57 pm ET

Some of you people are stupid. You act as if people in entertainment are not allowed to express opinions. I do agree that this is not a story for the political ticker. Some of you stereotype rappers as these menaces to society. Someone oeven commented on 50's gang affiliation. What gang? At least know who you are talking about before you exprss an opinion.
This story should be on the entainment section so those of us that actually want to read political news can do just that.

Dan, Tx   September 17th, 2007 1:43 pm ET

I agree with him in saying he already thought she was president. Another term for Bill Clinton. Is there any Bill Clinton policy that Hillary opposes (that Bill doesn't also now oppose)? She does talk with her husband about politics, don't you think. Bill/Hillary Clinton for president for a third/fourth term? I think there are lots of people that think that's a great idea. I for one wish Hillary was not Bill's spouse.

Rafael, Tulare CA   September 17th, 2007 1:37 pm ET

Why is CNN reporting on what 50 cent has to say regarding politics. He may have "street cred" but in my view he has no "political cred".

Dean, Madison, WI   September 17th, 2007 1:36 pm ET

Seriously, who cares what 50 Cent thinks about the election?

Steve B, Phoenix AZ   September 17th, 2007 1:29 pm ET

It’s nice to see that the african american community isn’t just voting Obama, but putting some thought into there vote. This is a good thing this means sen. Clinton will get enough votes from all sides of the aisle to spank those republicans hard. You can thank gwb he ensured the democrats rise to power.

HM/Wash, DC   September 17th, 2007 1:22 pm ET

Dear Fellow CNN readers (desperately searching for a real news source),

Thank goodness for your comments! Some days I lose faith that America is full of a bunch of robots that CNN and FOX program. But with great people like you, we will fight back and get a real news source soon.

Hey CNN, to go along with the request for real news, didn't see Jack about the 200,000 people marching in protest of this war in DC this weekend. The only way I knew about it, is because I was there. And what about the 30 countries holding rallies in support of the victims for Darfur (had to go to BBC to get that news). But thank goodness for all of the OJ coverage, again, 13 years later. Why do we care about him? Do you all make an agreement not to cover news? You are going to decide for us which candidates we can choose and how we're suppose to feel about the war. That's so 1984!

Christian, Tampa FL   September 17th, 2007 1:20 pm ET

Who cares what 50 Cent thinks?

If he can get people to vote, great, but otherwise his opinion means zilch to me. So, yeah, he endorses Hillary. I'm more likely to keep in mind that Zbigniew Brzinski endorses Barack Obama, and also that the Illinois Senator statistically has the most contributions from military personnel and families.

Henry Tucker, GA   September 17th, 2007 1:19 pm ET

Wow – add another political heavyweight endorsement to Hillary:

- Hollywood Madam Heidi Fleiss
- Porn Star Jenna Jameson
- SF Mayor Gavin Newsom (had affair with his campaign manager's wife)
- LA Mayor Villaraigosa (having affair with News Anchor)
- Norman Hsu (wanted felon, $850k in illegal donations)
- Fidel Castro says she's unbeatable
- Magic Johnson
- 50 cent

Obviously the media is supporting Hillary – since there is little reporting of Hillary's "purchase" of endorsements from South Carolina's most influential black leaders. Here is one of the few articles:

"Democratic presidential candidate Hillary Rodham Clinton on Monday denied that her campaign traded money for an endorsement from one of South Carolina's most influential black politicians.

In an interview with The Associated Press, Clinton responded to questions about the consulting contract her campaign negotiated with state Sen. Darrell Jackson, who last week endorsed her candidacy rather than of top rivals John Edwards or Sen. Barack Obama, D-Ill.

"Senator Jackson was someone who was involved in my husband's campaigns. He was someone we turned to for political advice and counsel and I'm proud to have him on my team," Clinton told the AP.

Soon after the endorsement, Jackson acknowledged that his media consulting firm had negotiated a $10,000 per month contract with Clinton's campaign. Jackson has said he turned down more lucrative contracts from other candidates."

Lavelle Rochester,ny   September 17th, 2007 1:16 pm ET

Yeah 50cent even said he liked George Bush. Who cares what 50 thinks, Oj Simpson is backing Hillary but from the looks of it I dont see him being able to vote not after his recent troubles! lol

Linda, Chandler AZ   September 17th, 2007 1:11 pm ET

I agree wholeheartedly with Rob. Looking at your web page today it seems that Hillary Clinton is the only person running for President. So 50 Cent and Magic Johnson support Hillary. Hillary Clinton came out with a Health Care Plan. No where in your article do you mention she was the LAST democratic candidate to come up with one. Or that her plan is no better than the ones that Obama and Edwards already announced. Your bias is blatantly pro-Hillary, CNN. Boy, do you have a big surprise coming.

Jeff Spangler, Arlington, VA   September 17th, 2007 1:09 pm ET

This is really great!
Terrible musician endorses terrible candidate.

Randy, PA   September 17th, 2007 1:04 pm ET

Why is it that Hilary is supported by the all dregs of society, hookers, porn publishers, ganstas, organizied crime, and labor unions?

Tim, Mercer, Maine   September 17th, 2007 1:01 pm ET

Nice, 50 Cent endorses Hillary gets on the news.

Barry Goldwater, Jr. endorses Ron Paul and no mention of it anywhere.

I still haven't forgotten what CNN did during the 1st debate of erasing the forum discussing the debate that was full of Ron Paul supporters saying that he won.

Raymond, El Paso TX   September 17th, 2007 12:54 pm ET

I wonder how many pictures the photographer snapped before he held up the correct finger.

Coach Haughton   September 17th, 2007 12:49 pm ET

This is really stupid.
Terrible musician endorses terrible candidate.

Rob   September 17th, 2007 12:49 pm ET

CNN THIS IS AN INSULT TO ALL PEOPLE WHO CARE ABOUT RELIVENT POLITICS.

Did CNN report that Obama has raised more money from the American troops than any other Democratic candidate? NO! Did CNN report that Obama gave a speech about the economy today in the NYC. NO!

Stop insulting people and report some real news. 50 Cent and those who think like him are victims of the make money at any cost mentality that infest our nation so I'm not going to put the brother down. Nice to know he cares about politics but CNN knows this is only a (very old) tabloid report to spark crap in the African American community against Obama. WE CAN SEE THROUGH THIS CRAP!
Obama 08!

Steven, South Orange NJ   September 17th, 2007 12:19 pm ET

Are you guys sure he was joking about Hillary being president already??? I mean to be fair we are talking about 50 cent and does any legitimate candidate really want a rapper like 50 cent who has been shot how many times and is heavily gang related to endorse them. If Hillary wants him she can have him is what I say!

T.P. from the O.C.   September 17th, 2007 12:19 pm ET

Fitty is also known for once endorsing Bush. To his credit he did backpedal, though. But, somehow I don't think Team Clinton is in a rush to get Curtis' endorsment. Some champaign with yo campaign?

Chris   September 17th, 2007 12:17 pm ET

If any of you teens or young adults look up to this man, then please listen.

50 Cent has contributed to the downfall of American and he is harming you more than you know. Don't take advice from someone who has evil ways of life.

Use your mind when you vote and do your own research. If you let some rapper tell you who to vote for, you deserve the future you'll get.

Kojo   September 17th, 2007 12:13 pm ET

As a young black mle i see how this Hip-hop industry has destroyed yong black males and the negative influence it is having in the commmunity.
He should'nt even be on Cnn

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