October 17, 2007
Posted: October 17th, 2007 09:53 AM ET

Obama is sworn into the Senate by his eighth cousin, Vice President Cheney.

WASHINGTON (CNN) – Go back far enough, the saying goes, and everyone's related.

But could it be possible that Democratic presidential candidate Barack Obama and Vice President Dick Cheney share a common ancestor?

Cheney's wife Lynne says yes.

In an interview on MSNBC Tuesday afternoon, Mrs. Cheney said that in the course of researching her husband's genealogy for her new book, "Blue Skies, No Fences," she discovered that the two public figures share an ancestor eight generations ago.

"Think about this," Mrs. Cheney said. "This is such an amazing American story that one ancestor, a man that came to Maryland, could be responsible down the family line for lives that have taken such different and varied paths as Dick's and Barack Obama's."

Mrs. Cheney's spokeswoman Ginny Justice gave CNN's Ed Henry more details, saying the two unlikely relatives are related through a French Huguenot named Mareen Duvall. Cheney and Obama are both descendants of her.

According to Justice, the vice president is related to her through "the first" Richard Cheney, who came to America in the 1650's. His granddaughter married Samuel Duvall, son of Mareen Duvall.

But is blood thicker than the partisan waters of Washington? Apparently not.

Even though Obama is related to her husband, Mrs. Cheney said she is not supporting the Illinois Democrat's White House bid.

Reacting to the news, Obama's campaign spokesman Bill Burton told CNN's Dana Bash with tongue in cheek, "Obviously, Dick Cheney is sort of the black sheep of the family."

But Obama's family ties to the Bush administration don't stop with Cheney. According to an article in the Chicago Sun-Times last September, Obama is also an 11th cousin of the president himself. The two share a 17th century Massachusetts relative.

Click here to see CNN's new political portal: CNNPolitics.com

– CNN's Alexander Mooney and Lauren Kornreich

Filed under: Barack Obama • Dick Cheney


Jay   January 28th, 2008 10:59 am ET

Communist Network News will do ANYTHING to defile someone. This is so low it's ridiculous! People don't even take this serious! It's yellow journalism at its finest. This type of reporting belongs in Star or World News Daily; tabloid fodder. I'm not even an Obama fan but this is just plain silly!
Amerikan news reporting is lost to corporate interests. No one wants to even listen to the news anymore. Sounds a lot like the Ministry of Truth more than anything else.

CHRISTOPHER   January 18th, 2008 2:56 am ET

I SEE A LOT OF STUFF GOING ON THAT I FEEL IS VERY WRONG IN THIS CAMPAIN. MIXING RELIGION AND STATE . JUST LIKE THE MIDDLE EAST LOOK WHAT THAT DID THERE. WANTING TO CHANGE THE CONSTITUTION TO BE MORE GOD LIKE . WHAT GOD I ASK .THIS IS THE U.S.A THEIR ARE DIFFRENT RELIGIONS AND DIFFRENT GODS .SO I ASK AGAIN WHAT GOD. AND WHO'S GOD.

enlightened one   January 14th, 2008 4:53 pm ET

Ah, I love it. The illuminati seems to be working fine and well!

familyforest   January 6th, 2008 5:46 am ET

Obamas Presidential Genes Truimph

http://www.familyforest.com/inthenews.html

familyforest   December 30th, 2007 9:20 pm ET

Maybe Politicians are Cut from the Same Cloth

Just saw this NPR radio show they did:

Sen. Barack Obama and Vice President Dick Cheney are distant cousins. President Bush and Sen. John Kerry have dozens of shared relatives.

http://www.npr.org/templates/player/mediaPlayer.html?action=1&t=1&islist=false&id=15401094&m=15401057

Kevin, Cleveland, OH   November 30th, 2007 5:33 am ET

The Wikipedia says that Mareen Duvall was a "man" not a woman. Just makes me wonder who's telling the story right.

jenniearcheo, Annapolis, Maryland   November 1st, 2007 4:30 pm ET

If you check out http://www.duvallsociety.org/, you'll see that Mareen Duvall had a very large number of descendants, two of whom happen to be Cheney and Obama (through his mother). Others include Robert Duvall the actor, Harry Truman, and Wallis Warfield Simpson (who became the Duchess of Windsor).

Sam, Cincinnati, OH   October 31st, 2007 1:45 pm ET

Both Cheney and Obama are descended from, the couple, Samuel Duvall and Elizabeth Ijams Duvall. This means that Mr. Mareen Duvall(Samuel's father) and Richard Cheney(Elizabeth's grandfather) are both ancesters of both politicians.
That Dick Cheney had African ancestry would be interesting, but unfortunately, this is not the case. (atleast back to the V.P./Senator's common ancester) That Sen. Obama has European ancestry(through his mother) is already given. All that this info shows is that they both have common European ancestry.
By the way, Obama's Ancestry is not sullied simply because it is connected to a branch that would much later lead to Cheney.
Too many comments on this thread seem to betray a severe misunderstanding of geneology.
One last thing, why, as some have implied, would Mrs. Cheney lie about this? Why would she mean this as some sort of insult. How is it an insult to connect oneself with another through ancestry? This implies that Mrs. Cheney sees herself as unfortunate to be linked with. Such is nonsense.

familyforest   October 27th, 2007 6:46 pm ET

Please Don't Shoot the Messenger

http://familyforest.wordpress.com/2007/10/22/

but I saw this in "The Australian"

Better get used to it, cuz: we're related

http://www.theaustralian.news.com.au/story/0,25197,22603319-26397,00.html

Micky Hurlbutt   October 26th, 2007 11:00 am ET

wpww

Kimberlyn , ATL GA   October 24th, 2007 12:06 pm ET

Silly people, Senator Barack Obama does not come from slavery. His father is African and his mother is Caucasian from Kansas. Please stop all this raped in slavery stuff. You sound nuts saying this.

Sheila Carter Bethesda, MD   October 22nd, 2007 11:37 pm ET

Just let it GO! Barack is a man of his own merrit, integrity, values and decision making ability. As my deceased Aunt Levonne always said, "You can't pick your relatives, and you have to love them inspite of yourself and themselves." Talk about treating my breathern as I would treat the Lord Himself.
S. Carter

David, Mississippi   October 22nd, 2007 5:21 pm ET

Most of you are complete IDIOTS, especially those of YOU who are showing your racist tendencies!!!!

OBAMA 2008

Renee Mareen Finley   October 22nd, 2007 4:58 pm ET

FYI. Mareen Duvall was male, not female. One reason why it is such an easy name to research. The name has been in each generation of the Duvall family line and continues to this day.

familyforest   October 21st, 2007 6:38 pm ET

Another barack Obama Cousins Story at:

Please see yesterday's blog post at http://familyforest.wordpress.com/2007/10/18/another-barack-obama-cousins-story/

The Family Forest® New World Edition can bring a great deal of expertise to this "important" news so that anyone can figure out what sort of cousins they are.

DR RUTH   October 18th, 2007 9:39 am ET

2 WORDS ...... OY VEY !!!!!!

Thinking Girl, Bloomfield, NJ   October 18th, 2007 8:23 am ET

We can all be related if you look back enough. There is a growing business in geneaology to prove such points- but it is not always accurate. If Obama is "related" to Cheney, it matters not. Some of the comments on here are so very uneducated- repeatedly using Barack's middle name, "Hussein"... I wish people would grow up and stick to real issues. Barack Obama does not take financial contributions from lobbyists or PACs- that is what is important to me. I'm only hoping that some of you simple-minded peole forget to come out and vote (for Guiliani? Thompson? Hillary?)on election day, and those of us who can look at real issues, and talk about change continue to push ahead for Barack.

milton cain, Salisbury, NC   October 18th, 2007 6:39 am ET

I am really amazed at the ignorance of the American people, and their inability to look beyond ones politics. This is why so many things are passe by the American public, because we are to busy fighting over things that really are of little importance. How about we sop worring about the big picture.

Goober, New York, NY   October 18th, 2007 3:08 am ET

Sounds like a soild case for evolution.

Anonymous   October 17th, 2007 10:52 pm ET

This is just saying that every black person is related to a rich white person through generations and generations.......It disgust me how Cheney's wife is implying that only reason Obama is smart is because he is related to a white man!!!

Craig R. Scott, Westminster, MD   October 17th, 2007 10:44 pm ET

SHE, Mareen Duvall's wife must have been really been suprised to learn that HE was a SHE. Not to mention other descendents of this couple, Harry Truman, Bessie Wallis Warfield Simpson, Dutchess of Windsor, oh and Robert S. Duvall.

Jim, Cleveland, OH   October 17th, 2007 10:35 pm ET

This is great! Obama is related to Cheney AND Bush? AND some people out there say he's obviously a better man while calling the other two clearly "fascists" and "misanthropes". What a joke! I want to hear Obama cast those slurs at his blood relatives! I hope this serves as a wake up call for all those who are supporting Obama because of his "politically correct" family history.

anoyumus wala,washington   October 17th, 2007 9:05 pm ET

I think Obama got the brains of the family. bush and cheny though have porige instead of a brain.

Anonymous   October 17th, 2007 8:43 pm ET

This story is proof positive of the "melting pot" and "six degrees" theory and also a veritable Soap Opera in American politics. When you have Cheney and Obama being related and Thurman and Sharpton as well in South Carolina then what's next? The long lost son of former president Clinton or something of the sort? I think to be more comical by relating this geneology to "Star Wars" and America's diversity this historical fact would definitely make Cheney the "Darth Vader" of the political jedi family, Obama the "Mace Windu" and the Empire being run by all accounts by the Sith Lord who is waging war across the known cosmos. Can we get the script for this saga please?

Jack, Detroit MI   October 17th, 2007 8:41 pm ET

The Muslim Congressman that swore on the Koran is actually from Minnesota by way of Michigan. Name is Keith Ellison. He's an alum of my high school. Also, Barack Obama is a Christian. Lets get our facts straight folks.

Anonymous   October 17th, 2007 6:02 pm ET

Political porn at its best. The establishment must be quaking in their boots to run an article that actually compares Obama to Cheney. What will they think of next? They're getting desperate that's for sure.

Genealogist   October 17th, 2007 6:01 pm ET

Kei in Los Angeles, CA- Sally Hemmings tale??? Do you really think Cheney's ancestor sailed all the way over to Kenya and raped one of Obama's African ancestors? Come on, stick to the facts- the relationship is through his mother's side. Why is it that Americans (of all races and political views) shut off their brains when it comes to racial issues.

Genealogist NY   October 17th, 2007 5:55 pm ET

EVERYBODY knows that Obama is the son of an African father and a white American mother, and even if they didn't know it before, it has been pointed out numerous times in the comments here. There is NO legacy of slavery in his ancestry and the relationship to Cheney is through his mother. Can you please try to look at the facts instead of immediately using your preconceptions to jump to false conclusions?

And Jim Brewer- the fact that someone was named after a Muslim ancestor doesn't make them Muslim. Obama was brought up a Christian and is still one. Do you think everyone with the middle name David is Jewish?

HipHopHustler, Los Angeles CA   October 17th, 2007 5:41 pm ET

I just read about this on globalgrind.com. This is hilarious, Dick Cheney probably almost had a heart attack when he heard that one..!

Steve, Sumter SC   October 17th, 2007 5:11 pm ET

First the Al Sharpton/Strom Thurmond relationship and now this!

Kei, Los Angeles, CA   October 17th, 2007 3:50 pm ET

So, what Mrs. Cheney is admitting is that this is another Sally Hemings tale. Please people don't be surprised. Most African-American's are related if you check our DNA.

Makeba, Newark, NJ   October 17th, 2007 3:48 pm ET

well...all i have to say is that Obama cannot be happy to know that!

Renee Jackson New York, NY   October 17th, 2007 2:50 pm ET

Barack Obama does not look anything like that greedy money hungry man. That amazing that Mrs. Cheney said without hesitation that they still will not be supporting Barack! Clearly money is more important than family.... be we already knew that about Cheney.

TC in LV   October 17th, 2007 2:45 pm ET

CNN, your unprofessional behavior never ceases to amaze me. Just when I think you can't get any slimier, you post this hoping it will hurt Senator Obama. For those Americans that can think, this article, the hate-filed posters and CNN aren't worthy of the bottom of a bird cage.

Where is your large print article concerning Hillary's LEAD in the REFUND of donations. She is triple all democratic candidates combined in having to refund political donations and you bury it.

The Clinton money machine that has been honing is sources for decades looks pretty lame compared to Senator Obama's 10-month old organization.

Now that is news.

tm   October 17th, 2007 2:30 pm ET

Ah, the royal bloodline of America. No surprise really, goes hand in hand with our bank of england, er I mean federal reserve.

Will Portland OR   October 17th, 2007 2:26 pm ET

wow!never would of thought...

sue, ca   October 17th, 2007 2:24 pm ET

oh come on, i can't believe any of these commentators would actually let the fact that cheney's confederate anscestors raped their slaves and multiply acutally imply that barack is somehow as evil as dick cheney.

Randy S. Lawton, OK   October 17th, 2007 2:07 pm ET

So many people here are coming up with that old saw that we're all related. Well, I suppose that if you believe all that mythological claptrap in Genesis you may believe that. But then you must also believe that we're all products of incestuous relationships which is clearly frowned upon in the Old and New Testaments.
Sorry folks you can't have it both ways.

And for those of you who proclaim that this information will be a deciding factor in whoyou vote for, please, do us all a favor: DON'T VOTE.

John Adkisson, Sacramento, California   October 17th, 2007 1:55 pm ET

I wonder how heated the dinner table arguments between these cousins will be over the Thanksgiving feast at the Cheney's household this year.

Seriously, this is what Obama needs to to spice up his "lack of soundbite" debating style. He should start the answer to a question with: "On this issue, I repsectfully disagree with my dear cousin, Vice-President Cheney...." That will grab the next day's headlines.

RJ, AZ   October 17th, 2007 1:21 pm ET

Whoops, in my comment I meant to say "take a stab at Obama." Sorry.

Jim Bremer   October 17th, 2007 12:48 pm ET

QUOTE : Jim Bremer: You are a fool.

Obama is a Christian, not a muslim.

Get your facts straight.

Posted By a voter in Wallingford, CT : October 16, 2007 6:55 pm

Uh..then why is his name Barak Hussein ? What about Saddam Hussein ? Was he a Christian too ? Please straighten all my facts – thanks

monica, rochester new york   October 17th, 2007 12:44 pm ET

Please save the photo used for this story. Some haters try to spread lies that Obama was sworn in on the Koran. Notice the picture of his swearing in on the christian Bible. Even if you don't support Obama, at least base it on facts not deliberate lies. Obama is a proud christian, not that his religion should matter. But some try to play on Americas fear of "muslims" by spreading false information. He is a christian, end of story. Put it to rest, stick with the facts.

Marilyn, Victoria, TX   October 17th, 2007 12:23 pm ET

Did anyone stop to notice that they are related by marriage, not by blood???? The original Richard Cheney's granddaughter married a Duvall. The Duvall is not in the Cheney line. Duh!!!

Nix Chick, Hickory NC   October 17th, 2007 12:21 pm ET

"This is what Bush presidents do best "Clean up the mess left by Clintons and the Democrates".

Posted By Lyle Anderson, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada

What do you know about it?? Bush=War period.
Oh that's right, Obama is Christian not Muslim I forgot about that. I could care less what religion someone is-unlike some people..ahem...republicans...

WE ARE ALL RELATED

Teressa, Mountain View NC   October 17th, 2007 12:12 pm ET

LOL
You just never know who you are related too!
Democrates are openminded (that is why we are Dems) so I really don't care if he is related to Dick.
But as for the Republicans....to know Dick is part Muslim and Black...I wonder what they think of Dick now? LOL!

Enoch, Nashville, Tennessee   October 17th, 2007 12:10 pm ET

What a surprise that CNN would even consider this news worthy.
In the first place, the entire human race have a common ancestry, this is no news, now get this! everyone in this blog are related, oops! just gave CNN breaking News. C'mon people! let's get real, if you don't want to vote for Barack Obama, that's ok, there's no need making up negative stories that are irrelevant. CNN! just report the facts, no pandering, no twisting of facts. If this report was about ancestory, I don't recall seeing who Hillary Clinton was related to or can I assume she has no relatives since your report was silent on that. Well! here's another Breaking News for you, ready! get your pens! cameras rolling!
"HILARY CLINTON IS A DISTANT RELATIVE OF ADOLF HILTLER"

Tammy, Denton, Maryland   October 17th, 2007 11:57 am ET

It's just unbelievable how the media trivializes our election process.

This is the biggest bunch of nonsense to date.

However, what I will do is forward this information to Pat Wilson down in Alabama. She's a state employee who has been sending out emails, on behalf of Clinton's campaign, describing Obama as tied to a Muslim conspiracy to destroy the US.

To: Pat Wilson,

Now you will have to add Dick Cheney and George Bush to your nasty emails. Since they're related to Obama they must be Muslim extremists as well.

Start sending your hate filled emails to George Bush, Dick Cheney and all their family, friends and supporters.

Use your good government job to let the world know that we have a Muslim extremist (by your definition) occupying the White House.

iKenneth - Louisville, KY/Columbus, OH   October 17th, 2007 11:48 am ET

does that mean the Cheneys are supporting Barack Obama??

my911call, Wilmington, NC   October 17th, 2007 11:40 am ET

Hillary lovers:
Do not stoop to disrespectful insults about Obama. He is a good man trying to do the right thing. He is a DEMOCRAT representing the needs of the people. I favor Hillary, but Obama should be respected. Democrats need to make sure they hold themselves to a higher standard. Hillary lovers need to represent themselves as rational.

Tommy   October 17th, 2007 11:31 am ET

Well, there you have it. Obama must be marked of the list as a viable candidate if he's related to Cheney. Can't have that.

Danielle Clarke   October 17th, 2007 11:29 am ET

Thankfully one member of the family can make up for all the murder and destruction created by the other.

GO OBAMA

P. Lynn, Carbondale, IL. 62901   October 17th, 2007 11:27 am ET

Mareen Duvall was male. Very rich, lots of land and slaves. I am related to him myself. That is how I know.

Hurray Boston MA   October 17th, 2007 11:21 am ET

I heard Clintons pet cat is related to Bushes pet dog. Is this true Wolf ? Can you please do a story on this ? It is very important.

Kotoo Nasheville TN   October 17th, 2007 11:17 am ET

Great Job CNN. This is the story of Most Importance during an Election Year and an Iraqi War. I am sure the fact that Obama and Cheney are related will greatly influence the outcome of the next Election, and help America and its allies win the Iraqi war and establish peace in the Middle East. How come you didn't report this story earlier ? Hurray for CNN.

Anonymous   October 17th, 2007 11:15 am ET

God help us if either this guy or Hillary gets in office. They are both CFR members... period.

Ron Paul 2008!

Glen, Kansas City MO   October 17th, 2007 11:12 am ET

I am also a Mareen Duvall descendant. So was Harry S. Truman, actor Robert Duvall, and the Queen of Albania. By the way, Mareen Duvall was a "he" not a "she".

Glen, Boston, MA   October 17th, 2007 11:12 am ET

I think this actually helps Barack.

There seems to be a contingent of ignorant Americans who insist on saying "Barack Hussein" everytime they mention his name – a childish attempt to discredit a man worthy of respect, even if one is not voting for him.

Perhaps this will awaken within them an awareness of the unity between all life. Imagine where we could go from there.

LocustTree Philadelphia, PA   October 17th, 2007 10:59 am ET

Barack Obama opposed Dick Cheney's war in Iraq.

Hillary Clinton voted for it.

Stacey, Hayward California   October 17th, 2007 10:54 am ET

Why does CNN continue to bother with posting such ridiculous, tabloid-esque stories – specifically about Barak Obama. Next I'll be reading on your site that he really came from outer space, has two horns and a tail! I thought your publication was better than that. This is something I'd expect from the National Enquirer but not you. Clearly I should lower my expectations.

Doug, New Jersey   October 17th, 2007 10:39 am ET

I don't agree with Obama's politics of hate, division, lies, and redistribution of the wealth-robbing hard working middle class people and giving their money to people who are paid to just reproduce and vote democrat. He is a soldier for the entitlement class for sure.

However, since I'm a conservative I cannot hate the man and wish him harm so I hope that he never gets close to being a threat to Queen Hillary. I would hate to see him be the next one to get Fosterized.

Also, I believe that in MLK's dream, he wanted minorities to be able to choose their own ideology and politics without severe racist based repurcusions. As you can see with what liberal democrats have done to Rice, Powell, and Clarence Thomas (almost as bad as lib homophobia against all gays who are not libs which is worse than anything ever from people like Fred Phelps), libs are holding back that dream.

Jason St.Louis MO   October 17th, 2007 10:33 am ET

Barak's Mother is White, that is the side they are related by.

Barak's father is from Africa, he is NOT the descendant of American Slaves.

PLEASE do a tiny bit of research and INFORM YOURSELF!! THIS HAS NOTHING TO DO WITH SLAVERY!!

EUNICE, MARYLAND, U.S.A.   October 17th, 2007 10:30 am ET

This is very interesting. Well, because of his blood relationship with our President and Chaney, I think he should be the next President. I withdraw all my criticsm of Obama. From now on I will not attack his campaign.

Yeah Right!

msrb   October 17th, 2007 10:12 am ET

What next?

Hillary Clinton is going to reveal that GWB and Sally Jones were first cousins!

[Or was it "Crap" the Rhesus Monkey?]

Note:Sally Jones, approximately 47, longtime resident of The Fund for Animals' Black Beauty Ranch in Texas, passed away at 4:00 PM, March 21, 1997. As an infant chimpanzee, Sally was captured in Africa around 1950.

[Google for Famous Monkeys Through History)

Tom, Macon, GA   October 17th, 2007 10:09 am ET

I don’t care if Obama was related to Henry the 8th, he will never be president because of his polices not his race.

Reference to AA from Arizona (Who types in capitol font)

No where in this article it says any black women were raped. I’m sure it happened along with all sorts of terrible things that happened in that time era. I’m also sure all sorts of crimes were committed by all races of people.

Please don’t make everything a race issue. Its 2007 people. I know some people will comment about the nooses. Well if the media and all these “activist” ignored them, people would stop. Its just like when we were kids, ignore the idiots and they will go away.

R Santos - San Antonio, Tx   October 17th, 2007 10:08 am ET

Now that the secret is out and Obama is related to Cheney and Bush, for sure I cannot even consider voting for him.

Tricia M Charlottetown PEI   October 17th, 2007 10:04 am ET

Just when I thought the American Presidential Race couldn't become more of a comedy hour...THIS !!!

Dan (Columbia, MD)   October 17th, 2007 10:02 am ET

"Barack is a humanitarian, Cheney is a misanthrope. Barack is a populist, and Cheney is a fascist. Barack would rather make love, not war!"

– Dan Dean, Orlando. FL

Misanthrope better defines left-wing socialists who believe that mankind is so flawed and incompetent that he needs big government to save him from himself.

RJ, AZ   October 17th, 2007 9:57 am ET

Wow...what a messed up way to try to take a stab at Cheney. All this really proves is that Mrs. Cheney was lying on the Glen Beck show when she said many people still like ol' Dickie-poo. She obviously knows that saying they're 14th cousins 18 times removed or whatever will hurt Barack's chances with the Mormons and buck-toothed idiots in this country...

Rose, Abbeville, SC   October 17th, 2007 9:56 am ET

Somehow the CNN writers always find time to write something that wastes my time....

J.Crobuzon   October 17th, 2007 9:53 am ET

Actually, I don't believe that Lynne Cheney would be truthful about that. Just my own Constitutionally-protected opinion, but I figure she made it all up.

John, Silver Spring, Maryland   October 17th, 2007 9:53 am ET

I know that I can't vote for Obama now!

Los808   October 17th, 2007 9:50 am ET

I suddenly dont like Obama!

A. Kalamazoo, MI   October 17th, 2007 9:50 am ET

NOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO

Vermont   October 17th, 2007 9:49 am ET

Thats dumb! Vote for Republicans!!

Shelley, Charlottesville, VA   October 17th, 2007 9:41 am ET

We are all related, this is not anything new. Clinton and Bush are related, not news, hug a child, read a book to a child, save some money, times are going to get tough before they get better.

laurinda,ny   October 17th, 2007 9:40 am ET

We are so fortunate not to have seen what other's had written, but we can assume that it wasn't very pleasant! I love a good game of chess. I think I just took your first castle.

Chris, FL   October 17th, 2007 9:40 am ET

Guess what, we're all bloody related! Adam and Eve, hello!!

For those of you that don't believe, look at the pyramid of relationships. It's all a multiplication factor.

Anyhow, I'm related to Obama and Cheney. My Asian wife is too. We're all related. What does it matter?

I'm sure Obama isn't all that crazy about this knowledge.

Troy Longmire, Brooklyn, NY   October 17th, 2007 9:39 am ET

Well, we now know who is not getting my vote.

James, San Antonio, TX   October 17th, 2007 9:34 am ET

Hey, The Pot calling the Kettle Black!

Lou Dobbs, Plano TX   October 17th, 2007 9:33 am ET

Evolution took a wrong turn somewhere down the line it seems, to give rise to Cheney and Bush! Wheres Larry Craig to set the Republican values straight?

Ronnie.Irving,Texas   October 17th, 2007 9:18 am ET

Just another reason not to vote for Obama.

Nate   October 17th, 2007 8:57 am ET

Not a big deal, they have a tie in the past.. so what. Plus, the Bush administration's backing Hillary for president.

Andy, Maybrook, NY   October 17th, 2007 8:53 am ET

If one investigates the Presidents of our country you will see that there is a bloodline of the ruling elite. To name a few, Kerry and Bush are related as is Gore and Nixon and Bush.

Sarah , Milwaukee, WI   October 17th, 2007 8:53 am ET

If this really "seals your vote" for Hillary, wow are you stupid.
That is not a reason to vote for her and you are ignorant.

Donald, Murphy Texas   October 17th, 2007 8:43 am ET

Well there you go another reason not to vote for Barack Obama, If he were to get into office he would be taking orders from not one but two former presidents Bush’s. Gees all we need is a Bush for a third term.

PSKing Lakeside, AZ   October 17th, 2007 8:40 am ET

Oh my goodness! That poor man! I certainly hope someone told him privately before this was spread all over the news. A man has to have time to prepare for gut-wrenching news. To find you are related to one of history's nastiest figures. My deepest sympathies to you, Sen. Obama.

oddvincent   October 17th, 2007 8:33 am ET

Of course they're related. They're both descended from the Lizard People who, as David Icke has revealed, took over the earth centuries ago and rule our destinies.

Silly big lizards. Don't they know we're on to them?

Will, NYC   October 17th, 2007 8:33 am ET

Jim Bremer, disgusting racists such as yourself is one of the reasons America's greatness has been tarnished.

Also, I know you think your doing this smear for christianity and the republican party, but Jesus is appalled and ashamed that you question and lie about the religiousity of a fellow Christian, though I see only one Christian in deeds here and it isn't you.

Kristy Vaughn, Florida   October 17th, 2007 8:30 am ET

To Joan Nicolson:
Exactly! The 17th century connection between Obama and Bush is the REAL story! :)

ed winter park Fl   October 17th, 2007 8:28 am ET

You Cheney's will say or do anything in hopes of trying to improve your image or respect. Nothing will ever improve how America knows or feels about you and your spouse.

maurice, washington, dc   October 17th, 2007 8:27 am ET

At the end of the day we are all related, that's what this goes to prove. Our similarities out weighs our differences although we tend to act otherwise.

Politics is just politics and nothing more. Think of the bigger picture...try tracing your roots and see where it takes you...our dna is 99.9999% the same...

Matthew, Manchester, CT   October 17th, 2007 8:25 am ET

Once again a very vital tidbit of information that CNN chooses to post. I think I'll get some more pertinent and salient issues out of Doonesbury or maybe the Jumble in the newspaper from now on...

TMAN   October 17th, 2007 8:16 am ET

OH I KNEW IT ALL ALONG!!!!!
I'VE BEEN SAYING IT SINCE THE BEGINNING, WHY I THINK I'M A FRIGGIN MYSTIC!!!!
DID I NOT SAY THAT OBAMA WAS AN IMPOSTOR, A PRETENDER, A JUGGERNAUT SENT TO DISRUPT AND DESTROY AMERICA'S TRUE MANIFEST DESTINY? YOU SEE I WAS RIGHT, IT WAS IN HIS BLOOD AFTER ALL!!!
MAYBE THIS EXPLAINS WHERE FIFTY MILLION DOLLARS OF CAMPAIGN MONEY CAME FROM, CONSIDERING OBAMA IS SCARCELY PRESIDENTIAL MATERIAL.

J. Crobuzon   October 17th, 2007 8:15 am ET

Cheney's great-great-great-grandfather was a Muslim? Awesome! America really is the melting pot.

Gvan20   October 17th, 2007 8:14 am ET

Dont they have better things too do people are dieing

Riaz, Jersey City, NJ   October 17th, 2007 7:59 am ET

Yep.. few hundred generations before we all had a common father ADAM (mpbuh) !!!

AJ; Montpelier, VT   October 17th, 2007 7:46 am ET

Whoop de do. And this is something that anyone should care about?

laurinda,ny   October 17th, 2007 7:46 am ET

I hope that when Cheney had his operation they put in rayco batteries.

Marylou Anderson Iowa   October 17th, 2007 7:23 am ET

That seals my vote for CLINTON!

Kunle, Coventry   October 17th, 2007 7:16 am ET

Oh America! You never cease to amaze the world!

Rick, Syracuse NY   October 17th, 2007 6:56 am ET

Well good to see the bloodline is improving over time. After all look at how much it will improve in the short amount of time between bush's regime and Obama being elected! We'll jump from a guy who will only go to war if he's all coked up behind a desk to a guy who will at least lead us out of the mess created by the republicans!

Steve, Lovelock, Nevada   October 17th, 2007 6:53 am ET

What a pathetic thread of comments. Instead of saying that there is common ground to be found between all of us and that MAYBE, just MAYBE, we could use the common ground between us all to find answers to the significant problems that plague this country, this thread did nothing but bash Bush, Cheney and Obama. Further indication our country is doomed unless we start healing ourselves and showing respect for each other.

BJ mpls mn   October 17th, 2007 6:50 am ET

Why is Bill Burton so nasty–He said that cheney is sort of a black sheep of the family-If cheney said that he would be racies.

One thing I notice is that the democrats are more mean than the Indep and Repu

Tickled my Funny Bone   October 17th, 2007 6:48 am ET

I LOVE Obama's sense of humor... "Black Sheep of the family.."

Michelle,Blacklick, Ohio   October 17th, 2007 6:44 am ET

The aftermath of slavery runs deep and sad….

Posted By Kaycee Hopkins, New York, NY : October 16, 2007 10:36 pm

This is a funny statement considering Barak's father came from Africa and his mom what white. It's obvious the relative they are linking Obama and Cheney too is white. Gesh, people are so silly. What difference does it make? When are we all going to get over this whole racial divide?

JB, Portland, OR   October 17th, 2007 6:42 am ET

Every super-rich American is related to every other super-rich American.

Brenda, Cherry Hill, NJ   October 17th, 2007 6:27 am ET

I'm sure you'll keep slandering the guy so that trash Hillary (with the bad face lift) will flip CNN some more cash/business. Or is Jim Bremer of Texas flipping you cash? That guy is WHACK!

Jerry McGiver Enfield, Ct.   October 17th, 2007 6:20 am ET

I've heard that "politics makes strange bedfellows" but, this is BEAUTIFUL!!!!!

Antonio, Tempe AZ   October 17th, 2007 6:15 am ET

This reminds me of the latest theonion.com headline "Poll: Bulls*** is Most Important Issue for 2008 Voters". This entry is about as inane as the "Is Obama carrying a purse?" entry and as useful as the "When Mars attacks, Giuliani's ready".

I'm surprised we haven't heard much about the candidates' pets or the candidates' positions on boxers vs briefs.

Zach, Appleton WI   October 17th, 2007 5:55 am ET

Is it a surprise to anyone that Cheney is also related to Bush? After all, every one of Satan's minions is share's a bloodline

khairulnizambakeri   October 17th, 2007 5:49 am ET

This is SO true.
Good for you, Obama!

USNA Ancient Mariner, Annapolis, MD   October 17th, 2007 4:34 am ET

Re: "Yea, Bush has more class in his pinky than Obama has in all of his family tree.

Posted By George Chicago : October 16, 2007 5:40 pm"

bush has class ??????????????????? there obviously isn't much oxygen on your planet geo. chicago !

T.C. Napa, CA   October 17th, 2007 3:27 am ET

And how WOULD both the Bush Family and Cheney family have a distant relative of African-American descent?

Let's think about this one. Barack's dad is from Africa (Kenya). This all happened in 17th Century America. Hm. I'll let you do the math, but I like how they called them "distant relatives." I'm sure in the 17th Century, that's not what they called them. :(

Saxon de Kock Johannesburg, Republic of South Africa   October 17th, 2007 3:25 am ET

Obama and Cheyney related – I think that's terrific! Of course, in the end – we are all related to one another so how about we all work towards world peace! Its not nice when brothers and sisters fight!

JDC, Birmingham, AL   October 17th, 2007 3:20 am ET

How Funny! I can't stop ginning, actually... laughing. What a small world.

Evan Esteves, Boca Raton, FL   October 17th, 2007 3:12 am ET

Some of the comments on here are just unreal...wow...

AA   October 17th, 2007 2:49 am ET

I was going to vote for Obama.
But if he is related to Dick Chaney I rather vote for someone else.

Posted By Raulin Mechanicsville V**************************************

HOW, STUPID CAN YOU BE...?

rik cruz, San Antonio Tx   October 17th, 2007 2:48 am ET

Ahhh yes, Nepotism at it's best. I guess the only way one can be president is to have family ties.
=p

AA   October 17th, 2007 2:45 am ET

I think this news is wonderful! In America, despite all of our racial, ethnic and religious difference, this proves how much of a family we really are.

Posted By Lisa Hampton, Newark, NJ ***************************************

IT'S NOT WONDERFUL, IF YOU THINK ABOUT IT. THEIR BEING RELATED COMES FROM THE FORCIBLE RAPE OF BLACK WOMAN, DURING SLAVERY. IF YOU THINK THAT'S "WONDERFUL"- I DON'T!! AND, IF YOU'RE SAYING, WELL THAT HAPPENED OVER 400 YEARS AGO...SO, WHAT! HOW SOON WE FORGET "OUR" HISTORY, AND THE SUFFERING BLACK WOMEN WENT THROUGH, DURING SLAVERY, AT THE HANDS OF WHITE MEN. WITH ALL THE NOOSE-HANGING GOING ON IN THIS COUNRTY, DURING THESE TIMES, WHY AND HOW DO YOU THINK THIS IS "WONDERFUL"?

Betty in Houston, TX   October 17th, 2007 2:25 am ET

I am sure if they keep searching they will find a connection to the Clinton's. Everyone came from the line of Moses family. Remember the earth was flooded and they were the only family line + those who were married to them. Small world after all, small world after all. The Rednecks must be squirming about right now.

AA, ARIZONA   October 17th, 2007 2:07 am ET

This is just hysterical to me. Let's just say I have had my doubts about Senator Obama for some time but know that I know how his family members are and how they have behaved in positions of power I will be voting for someone else. HA HA

Posted By Brandy, Jax. FL ***************************************

AND, IF YOU DO, YOU'RE JUST AS STUPID AS THE ONES WHO PUT THIS OUT JUST FOR YOU TO DO THAT...HOW STUPID CAN SOME PEOPLE BE?

Stephen Marks, Providence RI   October 17th, 2007 1:40 am ET

Poor Obama. At any rate it isn't his fault, and I hope that his sub-par family tree doesn't hold him back ;-)

Matt K, Pittsfield, MA   October 17th, 2007 1:27 am ET

What a pile of crap article. Maybe you can next focus on the astrological signs of various political figures. Perhaps George Washington and George Bush both liked hamburgers? My 17th cousin thinks you should move to Ecuador.

Rod, Charlotte NC   October 17th, 2007 1:19 am ET

How about some real news. This is lame.

RA,Cary,NC   October 17th, 2007 1:17 am ET

All in the Family? Cheney & Obama Related? Ha Ha Ha, Hee Hee Hee, Ho! Ho!! Ho!!! What a Joke!

Goodnight Washington DC   October 17th, 2007 1:16 am ET

I see you topped out at 57 people who considered this story of ultimate importance. Great Job CNN, Al should give his Nobel Prize to CNN !!!!!!

Marvin, Paris, France   October 17th, 2007 1:15 am ET

A French ancestor? Does it mean they could also be related to Sarkozy and Kouchner? The all have the same warmongering genetic disposition.

Nogo , Tehran Iran   October 17th, 2007 1:14 am ET

Good Point. Hillary has paid the Republicans to run this story ? Huh ?

CNN Tuscaloosa AL   October 17th, 2007 1:13 am ET

So is this the base for some new Comic or something ? Or has CNN just got lazy ?

Buthy Birmingham AL   October 17th, 2007 1:11 am ET

How touching. Such a touching news report.

Hurray Atlanta GA   October 17th, 2007 1:09 am ET

Are you sure you don't have 58 comments ? Or is this like WMD, where CNN just reports part of the story ?

E. C., Houston, Texas   October 17th, 2007 1:08 am ET

What a crock! First thing I'll do is check the 'wonederful source' of this information...which is probably 'miss-information..... WHO knows if this is true? This information is so EASILY manipulated.......Better to 'check it out' before one releases this type of information to the media! I don't really BELIEVE any of it! The public should not either.

G, Central Jersey   October 17th, 2007 1:07 am ET

Well....condidering that Dick Cheney is white (DUHHH!!!)...I can only think of one way that this gentleman Dick can be related...Plantation owner...Slave owner.

Badar Memphis TN   October 17th, 2007 1:06 am ET

Are Putin and Gore related ?

MB, Orlando, FL   October 17th, 2007 1:02 am ET

Upon hearing this I am sure that Dick Cheney's has had more than a few sleepless nights. How ironic to say the least?

Robert Rochester, MN   October 17th, 2007 1:01 am ET

Wait a minute... Does this family tie mean Barack can't marry Mary Cheney?
Oh, I'm so confused!

Goody Cleveland OH   October 17th, 2007 12:53 am ET

You must be stuck on #57. It figures such a boring story would do that.

Mike, Oak Park IL   October 17th, 2007 12:52 am ET

Its Obama, not Barak. Why do you people keep using his first name and everyone elses last name? Give the man some respect. And it Barack, not barak.

Permalink, New Orleans LA   October 17th, 2007 12:52 am ET

Who Cares ?

CNN Baghdad Iraq   October 17th, 2007 12:51 am ET

Sounds like a Situation Room story. Of utmost importance. Yes, for sure.

Mond NewYork NY   October 17th, 2007 12:50 am ET

This is really important. More important than reporting on some Soldiers in Iraq that may be related ?

Yoso Boston MA   October 17th, 2007 12:49 am ET

Does CNN give itself Trophies for Great Stories. Just wondering is all.

Hallo Boston MA   October 17th, 2007 12:47 am ET

And Halloween is on October 31. Another great story for CNN.

George Dallas TX   October 17th, 2007 12:46 am ET

What is the average oil output of Iraq perday. In gallons ?

CNN Atlanta GA   October 17th, 2007 12:45 am ET

And the Yankees won the 2007 World Series. And we found WMD in Iraq. And Barack and Dick are related. Which of the above are true stories ?

George Dallas TX   October 17th, 2007 12:44 am ET

I really don't think they are. Dick wears glasses, Obama does not. Shouldn't that settle it ?

CNN Atlanta, GA   October 17th, 2007 12:43 am ET

Well, you are up to 57 people out of 800 billion now, that think this was a noteworthy story. Good job CNN, I would be proud.

George Dallas TX   October 17th, 2007 12:42 am ET

Is the chief operation officer of CNN related to the Chief operation officer of FOX ?

George Dallas TX   October 17th, 2007 12:41 am ET

Please take a Time Out from reporting this outstanding news story of great importance. And wish Hillary the best of luck in the upcoming Election. And remember the Iraqi people and American troops. If you consider that important and newsworthy.

George, Dallas TX   October 17th, 2007 12:39 am ET

The good news is that neither one of them will ever be President of the USA.

Sarah Gastonia NC   October 17th, 2007 12:38 am ET

Well you know it doesn't really matter about relatives ya know? In my own case I am the good sheep of it all. Barack seems to be the good sheep of this clan. =)

CNN Atlanta GA   October 17th, 2007 12:38 am ET

You do a good job of brushing off and trashing good comments. Just like the WMD. Great job CNN. Hurray

Bodo Boston MA   October 17th, 2007 12:37 am ET

Don't you think Georgie feels left out ? And Hillary ? My, My, My who are they related to ? Please don't short the American Public and the Iraqi People, the rest of the news. Who is Pelosi related to ? Who is Edward related to ? Who is Ringo Starr related to ? Who is Kevin Garnett related to ?

Bono, Atlanta GA   October 17th, 2007 12:35 am ET

Yea, lets have 87 strait days of Wolfe Blitzer, doing a continuous story on the fact that Barack and Cheney are related. Do you think you can make the story last through the election.

Bono, Oslo, Norwary   October 17th, 2007 12:34 am ET

Common CNN, step it up, face up. Is this story true, can you prove it, or is it similar to WMD ?

George, Olso Norwary   October 17th, 2007 12:33 am ET

Why aren't you displaying the best comments ? Are you a WMD news source, or do you like to source the real news ?

PrintThat Boston MA   October 17th, 2007 12:31 am ET

Can you provide the American public and the Iraqi people with some proof that this is true ? Or is it a WMD relation.

CNN Atlanta GA   October 17th, 2007 12:29 am ET

Sorry, American Folks, this is the only news we have. Sorry Iraqi troops. this is all the news we have.

CNN Atlanta, GA   October 17th, 2007 12:29 am ET

You missed #50, it was the best one yet.

CNN Atlanta GA   October 17th, 2007 12:28 am ET

You are up to 49 now. 49 people out of 500 billion, that actually think this is reall news. Good rating their CNN, it should speak for itself.

Howie Short, Baghdad, Iraq   October 17th, 2007 12:27 am ET

Is this really the best you can do ?

mike glenmont ohio   October 17th, 2007 12:27 am ET

I heard obama got a blood transfusion when he heard he might have cheneys tainted blood running through him

Sure Thing, Boston MA   October 17th, 2007 12:24 am ET

You should really do a national Poll tomorrow, to see who actually cares ? Would you consider this more important than supporting our troops, and reporting on a few good things America has done lately? Or would that be beneath your dignity ?

Oore Areyou Orlando, FL   October 17th, 2007 12:22 am ET

Don't you have any good news to report ?

Wm, West Chicago, IL   October 17th, 2007 12:22 am ET

This is ridiculous. If these are the kind of cheap tricks people are going to use to scare us out of voting for Obama then think again. Do we really want to continue the Bush-Clinton-Bush-Clinton drama that has made this country a laughing stock? We are bigger than this. We are ready for change. Come on CNN, give us some articles that don't pick sides. It's not funny, it's pathetic.

What Does, Mexico City Mexico   October 17th, 2007 12:22 am ET

And CNN is related to Disneyworld. Hurray.

Wofle, Morgantown WV   October 17th, 2007 12:21 am ET

And I am related to Tony Blair. Hurray

Yoto Maryland NH   October 17th, 2007 12:20 am ET

Fox reports that Pelosi and Kennedy are 3rd cousins. Please do a story. This is so important.

911 Truth, New York , New York   October 17th, 2007 12:18 am ET

Obama is part of illuminati, and so is Hillary. either do not bother to Vote or Vote for RON PAUL.

Iraqi People Baghdad Iraq   October 17th, 2007 12:17 am ET

Please tell me you have better things to do than report on Cheney and Obama.

Boama Chicago IL   October 17th, 2007 12:16 am ET

I heard CNN and Fox are merging, so maybe we can get a reliable news source. Is this more important than a Cheney and Obama story.

Bruno Chicago IL   October 17th, 2007 12:14 am ET

I think Wolf should do a story tomorrow, on who really cares if Cheney and Obama are related. Is this some kind of Campaign Spice or something ?

Atlanta Boz   October 17th, 2007 12:13 am ET

So is this good news or bad news.

Mr. Bush   October 17th, 2007 12:12 am ET

I heard CNN needs a new moderator for this page. When can I apply? And can I have Wolfe Blitzers job as well ?

mike, ventura, california   October 17th, 2007 12:11 am ET

just another member of the illuminati!!!! these bloodlines are ruling you and the world. wake up!

George Boston   October 17th, 2007 12:09 am ET

What does this have to do with the Iraqi war and the American people ?

George Boston   October 17th, 2007 12:08 am ET

I heard Bill Clinton and Abodjimad are related.

George Boston   October 17th, 2007 12:07 am ET

Hillary is the next president. So who really cares if Cheney and Obama are related??

George Boston   October 17th, 2007 12:06 am ET

It is amazing to me that America's main news source has nothing better to spend their time at, than to state cheny and obama are related.

George Boston   October 17th, 2007 12:05 am ET

And you must need a new modirator, if this moderator has posted the best that received.

Robert, Shelton CT   October 17th, 2007 12:03 am ET

I love this type of stuff....see how everyone is connected, now why can't we work together to find a common thread.

Geroge Boston   October 17th, 2007 12:03 am ET

Is this all you have to do at CNN ?

Brock d'Avignon, Roseville CA   October 17th, 2007 12:02 am ET

All US presidents except Martin Van Buren are related to one another 20 generations back, according to my family genealogist. We have made a poster of this and as a US HIstory teacher, I am double checking it. For more info contact brock_davignon@yahoo.com

Richard, West Palm Beach, FL   October 17th, 2007 12:02 am ET

"Yea, Bush has more class in his pinky than Obama has in all of his family tree."

Incredible. Is that the same classy Bush who can't find one person to verify he actually served in Alabama, but refused to denounce the not-so-Swift Boat Veterans? Is that the same classy Bush who told us Rumsfeld would stay and "we've never been stay the course"? Is that the same classy Bush who read "The Pet Goat" while hundreds of Americans died and played air guitar while Katrina victims suffered? If that's anyone's definition of class, I hope Obama has NONE at all.

Max, Boston, MA   October 16th, 2007 11:51 pm ET

I always knew Cheney was black.

James, Phoenix AZ   October 16th, 2007 11:48 pm ET

Does this make Mr. Obama a heartless, gutless, cowardly (5 deferrments) war profiteer?

Dion, Elk Grove, California   October 16th, 2007 11:43 pm ET

Guess what? We are all related....

Angela, WPB, FL   October 16th, 2007 11:33 pm ET

I hope he sues her for Defamation of Character, Inflicting Intentional Malicious Injury, Heinous Verbal Assault, etc,etc.

(Not a lawyer, but you get the idea.)

Also, I think its crap.

Until Obama corroborates this, I'll just put it down to Campaign mudslinging by the Repubs.

Wendy   October 16th, 2007 11:21 pm ET

No more Bush dynasty; No more Cheney-lite!

Anonymous   October 16th, 2007 11:20 pm ET

Boy, the Republicans have sunk to a new low. Until Obama himself admits to this genealogical link, I will not believe it.

I feel terribly sorry for him though.

Melissa, Denton,TX   October 16th, 2007 11:16 pm ET

Poor guy. He must be so depressed. I think I'd slit my throat if I found out I shared DNA with the spawn of Satan and his hench man.

George, Torrance,Ca   October 16th, 2007 11:16 pm ET

You people are so hateful...don't most of you belong to the party of peace, love and non-judgement?

swissdiver   October 16th, 2007 10:59 pm ET

Obama and Cheney's narcissistic, egotistical and conceited attitude certainly runs in the blood. They're both pathetic!!!

Jeff Morgan Austin, TX   October 16th, 2007 10:55 pm ET

If anyone is wondering, 8 generations back predates the founding of America. If you're family is from America, we all probably have some colonists in common

Don, atlanta, ga   October 16th, 2007 10:51 pm ET

Well.... Im surprised CNN didn't link him to Saddam Hussein! This is one funky anti-blackman news outlet!

Troy   October 16th, 2007 10:48 pm ET

Obama is Cheney-Lite!!! I'm lovin' this!!!

Louis, St. Louis, MO   October 16th, 2007 10:47 pm ET

Yeah, they do have something in common: dirt-digger.

See the following blog from Time
---------–
October 16, 2007 10:38
Filing Day: Obama's Little Little Rock Payments
Posted by Ana Marie Cox

A rival campaign alerted me to these details from the Obama filing:

$27.00 For Printing At The Arkansas State Archives In Little Rock, Arkansas.
$9.30 For Printing At The William J. Clinton Presidential Library In Little Rock, Arkansas.
$207.75 For Travel/Lodging At The La Quinta Inn & Suites In Little Rock, Arkansas.

In case you were wondering, copies at the Clinton library are $.15 a page, so that's 62 pages of oppo gold that Obama's people got their hands on. As far as I can tell, there are no similar disbursements in past Clinton filings, probably because her researchers just shove the documents in their pants.

Way to go, Hussein!

Jane Mehu, Hollywood, Fla.   October 16th, 2007 10:45 pm ET

I'm also eager to know more about ties between Barack and Cheney, like how exactly are they linked? Who's the common ancestor, and also how is Barack related to the president? This is vague on details. CNN please flush out this news report.

Santosh Ganguly   October 16th, 2007 10:42 pm ET

So if Obama is realted to Bush & Obama is also related to Cheney, does that mean it's Obama who has brought Bush closer to Cheney?

Also, it was found back in 04' that Bush and Kerry are also related "by a distance." President is also a descendant of former Pres. Franklin Pierce. So we have Pierce-Bush-Kerry-Obama-Cheney related so far.

Anyways, my opinion of Barack Obama, who I didn't care much for before has been upgraded a little (tongue-in-cheek!). At least he's related to class, even if I don't like his ideology.

sonya, atlanta, ga   October 16th, 2007 10:40 pm ET

With the kind of experience Cheny and HRC- Obama can do without. Let the baby boomers generation move to the side. Tried of replaying the vietman and cultural wars of the 69's that lead to this sorry state of paritsan bickering and do nothing government.

d. holland, Fort Worth, TX   October 16th, 2007 10:40 pm ET

You guys forgot to label this story as an Onion satire, right?

Conway, Arkansas   October 16th, 2007 10:39 pm ET

Obama, is greatly smartand handsome to lead consciously the United States of America.

We strongly support him,.

God bless,. America.

Larry, Philly, PA   October 16th, 2007 10:37 pm ET

As usual, some people just need to get a "frickin" life!

Kaycee Hopkins, New York, NY   October 16th, 2007 10:36 pm ET

The aftermath of slavery runs deep and sad....

Rosemary, Simi Valley, CA   October 16th, 2007 10:35 pm ET

Is this another way for the Republicans to try and stop Obama from winning the nomination? Who cares. Most African Americans are tied to White people from slavery to current times. Probably 98 percent of all African Americans can tie some of their ancestry to White people. So what else is new.

Obama must be gaining more steam out there than the Mainstream Media, Punditry Corps and Republicans want to give him. Why else would they keep comming up with things that pushs some people's buttons.

This should answer the intelligent enough, smart enough and experienced questions, since all of those adjectives are used to describe Hillary.

Jaik , chicago, IL   October 16th, 2007 10:23 pm ET

This is CNN trying to peel votes off Obama to support the triangulating republican-lite Clinton.

Raulin Mechanicsville VA   October 16th, 2007 10:15 pm ET

I was going to vote for Obama.
But if he is related to Dick Chaney I rather vote for someone else.

Margo, Ottawa, Canada   October 16th, 2007 10:10 pm ET

This is an obvious Republican ploy to blacken Obama's reputation. {;>9

John, Everett WA   October 16th, 2007 10:07 pm ET

"Luke, I'm your father....."

Gayle-Veteran4Peace, San Diego, Ca.   October 16th, 2007 10:06 pm ET

OMG, I'd be devastated to learn that I was related to Bush & Cheney and I'm white. I'm sure if they all had I.Q. test Obama would score higher than either of them idiots, besides Obama wouldn't start a war over a bunch of out right lies to put money in his pocket. Bush & Cheney aren't christian like in anything they do! They will get what's coming to them...

Richard, Baltimore MD   October 16th, 2007 10:04 pm ET

Everyone is commenting on how Cheney could be related to Obama, Have we forgotten that Obama's mother is a white american. This relationship has nothing to do with his African father–who by the way was not muslim.

Wayne, Silver Spring, MD   October 16th, 2007 9:57 pm ET

and this is news, how? ah, CNN! shame

jacob, northfield, mn   October 16th, 2007 9:54 pm ET

I dont care about this story. I would rather read about the failure of the house to pass a resolution against Turkey. But since its about another failure of a democrat controlled house, you wont read about it on CNN. Oh Well.

thomas, new york, ny   October 16th, 2007 9:50 pm ET

Yeah, and they both become VP of the united states.

Sam, Tampa, FL   October 16th, 2007 9:50 pm ET

CNN should just get it over with and officially endorse Hillary Clinton. Hillary is getting so much attention on the major media outlets is sickening. And by bashing every non-Hillary presidential candidate, it's just making her "win" the PR race, and consequentially the presidential race. HRC = GWB

Scott from Freehold   October 16th, 2007 9:43 pm ET

Uch! To have Bush and Cheney blood in me, would make me want to shower!

Jevin St. Marys, GA.   October 16th, 2007 9:41 pm ET

"For all of you who incorrectly insist that Obama is a Muslim, would this link make Cheney a Muslim, too?
Posted By Ryan, New York, NY : October 16, 2007 5:10 pm "

Brilliant statement. They are separated by 8 generations of families. By your rational, Cheney is black, too.

Gracia Akin,Sierra Vista, AZ   October 16th, 2007 9:32 pm ET

My heartflet sympathies for Obama

DaveM, Lebanon, OR   October 16th, 2007 9:27 pm ET

I suspected this. I'm a sixth cousin to Obama and I saw something scary further up the line in researching my own lines. Simply devastating news.

Dana Garrett   October 16th, 2007 9:20 pm ET

Given Cheney's transparent deficiencies, Obama in contrast makes it clear that intelligence and ability are mostly the result of nurture and not nature.

El Monte   October 16th, 2007 9:14 pm ET

Brother from another mother

Ruth   October 16th, 2007 9:14 pm ET

Rudy is looking better every day.

timbuck, houston, texas   October 16th, 2007 9:10 pm ET

cheney's wife should not continue to insult decent, honorable men like Obama.

AJ - Florida   October 16th, 2007 9:07 pm ET

Every time I would look at Obama I would wonder who he looked like and know I can totally see it. Oh my God he looks so much like Cheney!

Lisa Hampton, Newark, NJ   October 16th, 2007 9:00 pm ET

I think this news is wonderful! In America, despite all of our racial, ethnic and religious difference, this proves how much of a family we really are.

Christian, Tampa FL   October 16th, 2007 8:58 pm ET

Good golly gosh.

They're not that closely related, though, so that's good. I have a friend who's more closely related to the Senator because they're both descended from Jefferson Davis.

You see, Obama is basically America incarnate. What more reason do we need to elect him President?

2012 444   October 16th, 2007 8:58 pm ET

Is this mean Bush and Cheney are related; as Devil and Vampire? Both do have evil smile. 2012 444

EOW   October 16th, 2007 8:52 pm ET

They are just preparing for 2012. End of world!!! Repent now.

J. Williams   October 16th, 2007 8:50 pm ET

...yeah, this is pretty much the random, juvenile-caliber comments I'd expect from a "news story" like this.

(Don't worry, everyone. I blame CNN.)

matt   October 16th, 2007 8:39 pm ET

Is this a joke? Maybe Uncle Cheney can be a campaign adviser for poor, unexperienced Barack.

http://www.political-buzz.com/

ABB Fremont, Ca   October 16th, 2007 8:27 pm ET

I had no plans to do so in the first place, but this is all the more reason not to vote for Obama.

Aaron, Saint Paul MN   October 16th, 2007 8:27 pm ET

"Obviously, Dick Cheney is sort of the black sheep of the family."

Classic. Brilliant.

Cheyenne Mike.   October 16th, 2007 8:21 pm ET

Obama walks upright and acts intelligent, yet Cheney's knuckles still drag on the ground – go figure..........

Brandy, Jax. FL   October 16th, 2007 8:17 pm ET

This is just hysterical to me. Let's just say I have had my doubts about Senator Obama for some time but know that I know how his family members are and how they have behaved in positions of power I will be voting for someone else. HA HA

Traci, West Palm Beach, FL   October 16th, 2007 8:17 pm ET

What a bummer.... Obama must have been devastated to hear that horrible news. I am devastated for him.

uriew, CA   October 16th, 2007 8:06 pm ET

All you Hillary lovers, have fun in your Obama bashing party. Laurinda from NY, I would think you have enough brains to realize that this isa an attempt by Hillary panderers to do anything to portray Obama as second class. Watch the money come in at barackobama.com, the media is going to lose the battle, and the people will elect Obama

THOMAS BILLIS   October 16th, 2007 7:58 pm ET

I did some research and it turns out that the common relative in Mass. Bonzo Bush was the town idiot.He would be so proud to see one of his descendents being the countrys idiot.

Percy H Florez, Ahsburn, VA   October 16th, 2007 7:51 pm ET

If you take time and try to find out anything like that on ancestry.com, you could not find anything.

This is and advertising to sell her lousy book.

lowerpericles   October 16th, 2007 7:50 pm ET

The Obama Code.

Bob, San Francisco, CA   October 16th, 2007 7:48 pm ET

The first comment by demwit is hilarious. Let's just leave it with that!

clay   October 16th, 2007 7:42 pm ET

Im pretty sure she means "OSAMA"

RG, SF, CA   October 16th, 2007 7:39 pm ET

Shouldn't someone who works for Obama not use the "black sheep of the family" term? It is based on the whole black=bad, white=good construction. Why not say Dick Cheney is the crazy evil grandfather in the family?

pam Eugene OR   October 16th, 2007 7:39 pm ET

CNN..Did you get this info fron the billary machine? Every time I think you can't go any lower you do!
Tell me how this is news other than to embarass Obama.
New lows for you CNN

Anonymous, Somewhere, MI   October 16th, 2007 7:25 pm ET

So that's how Massachusetts sailors killed time on that trip between the Ivory Coast and Barbados.

Jackie   October 16th, 2007 7:24 pm ET

I thought that along while back this is the truth wow..when he step into the race after the oprah show i said to my self i wonder if he knows the cheneys/bush's,listen to his speeches ahh uhh uhh uhhh..he talks like a republican bush

Hillary more sense to support her.you have my vote,

G. Winchester, New York, NY   October 16th, 2007 7:19 pm ET

Wasn't someother slaveowner related to Obama not too long ago? Was it Trent Lott?? Strom Thurmond??

I think it's terrible to drag Obama's name through the mud like this. And to add insult to injury, they have to throw in something about "the current president", too.

I think I'd slice my wrists if I ever found out I was even remotely related to such a failure in the White House – our chimp, the dictator.

Elinor G., Ypsilanti, MI   October 16th, 2007 7:17 pm ET

Lynne Cheney, a fake scholar, is just trying to sell her latest book. But it was a slick move to try to turn people off to Obama at the gut level. (That's what she does–co-opts others' messages/essences in an effort to weaken them–as when she handed Don Imus a pack of pork chops after he called the VP "pork chop butt," and she carried along a Darth Vader doll when she appeared on The Daily Show. This time she's gone all the way to supposed DNA. Yuck, what wiles.)

bukky, baltimore MD   October 16th, 2007 7:16 pm ET

"Cheney. According to an article in the Chicago Sun-Times last September, Obama is also an 11th cousin of the president himself."

Should'nt this say that "Obama is Related to Clinton"

And to all to who keep saying Obabma swore in on the Quran. PLEASE NOTICE THE BIBLE.

The muslim congressman is from California

Terry, Boston MA   October 16th, 2007 7:15 pm ET

Wow! Cheney is turning out to be quite the progressive. His daughter's a lesbo and he's related to a black man. Maybe he should run for the Green Party

Karen, NYC   October 16th, 2007 7:12 pm ET

Oh Hell No! This is a set up!

Josh Maloney, Oakland, CA   October 16th, 2007 7:01 pm ET

One other contrast worth noting – Obama represents hope and Cheney represents evil.

a voter in Wallingford, CT   October 16th, 2007 6:55 pm ET

Jim Bremer: You are a fool.

Obama is a Christian, not a muslim.

Get your facts straight.

Lyle Anderson, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada   October 16th, 2007 6:55 pm ET

Jeb Bush won't run this election, Hillary is a lock (Americal has lost the war in Iraq), George Bush is a lame duct, Democrates are doing all they can to assure a defeat of Americal in Iraq. Jeb will be needed after 8 years of the mess of Hillary to stave off invasions of America by the army of Apocalypse from the east and west. We'll have to liberate France again. This is what Bush presidents do best "Clean up the mess left by Clintons and the Democrates".

Lance in Monrovia CA   October 16th, 2007 6:53 pm ET

I don't care who Obama is related to, he's still going to be kicking Dick Cheney in the butt on his way out the door come 2009.

Did you hear they raised 500,000 dollars today for Obama's campaign after he sent out an email pointing out Hillary beat him by 2 mill and we needed to close the gap.

I'm about to go donate 25 bucks. Screw the polls and the establishment.

Obama 08!

gloryus, San Rafael, CA   October 16th, 2007 6:50 pm ET

Thank you "uriew". I agree with you: CNN and other media seem hell bent on trying to wrangle Barack Obama into their rhetorical "nooses" of misinformation. Yes, we the People will vote for someone willing to represent all of us!

Mongo, SF, CA   October 16th, 2007 6:50 pm ET

Now the question is; "Is Chaney black enough?"

El.Kabong Santa Clara, CA   October 16th, 2007 6:42 pm ET

Obama... I am your Father...

Milo Janus, Dunellen, NJ   October 16th, 2007 6:42 pm ET

This is like the movie "Twins": Obama gets all of the charm, and Cheney gets all of the gruff junk.

Man, this news must really be upsetting the GOP base. He's got a gay daughter and now has a black man in his family?

Lona Tucker, Long Beach, CA   October 16th, 2007 6:39 pm ET

If Cheney's family is related to Barak's then it must envolve rape on Cheney's side! Only , now the Cheney family is bending us all over!

Newzaroo Fargo, ND   October 16th, 2007 6:33 pm ET

So is Hillary related to Big Momma? Those thick ankles are my first clue.

Coach Haughton NH   October 16th, 2007 6:32 pm ET

Reggie Anaheim
LMAO!

RightyTighty   October 16th, 2007 6:28 pm ET

I hear Dick has invited him to go hunting..

hillarylover NY NY   October 16th, 2007 6:28 pm ET

CNN continues to allow racism on its blogs. What a shame.

Hillary 2008

therealist   October 16th, 2007 6:26 pm ET

Ahhh, the power of the media.
You see black voters, a biased media can trear down even a Saint. I hope the effects of its corruption is no longer a fussy issue for you. Equality should be demanded on every level, by everyone..

chiu,nyc,ny   October 16th, 2007 6:26 pm ET

Is she coming up with a book too? Fool no one. This sounds like she is talking of slaverly. she should be investigated!

s1mplex   October 16th, 2007 6:20 pm ET

Um, just to make sure everyone is clear on this, it is an undeniable fact that each living human being does share a common ancestor with every other living human being; indeed, with every other living organism on this planet.

That being said... Barack and Dick do have unnervingly similar ears.

mommadona, Ben Lomond, CA   October 16th, 2007 6:13 pm ET

Only Lynne would put the energy in this little "gotcha".......

Bet she looked it up on the Mormon database.

rdc clearlake, ca   October 16th, 2007 6:10 pm ET

can't get much whiter than that

julian   October 16th, 2007 6:06 pm ET

"Bush has more class in his pinky than Obama has in all of his family tree."

Posted By George Chicago : October 16, 2007 5:40 pm

bush? class? unless you're talking about his failing grades in college, there's really no reason those two words should be in the same sentence. unless, of course, you place a "has no" in between them.

Steve Douglas,. MA   October 16th, 2007 6:04 pm ET

Big deal, we re all related. The best estimate has the most distant shared relative between you and anyone else on this planet is thirty generations. I wish we could get that through our thick skulls.
Pax, Steve

Mrs. America   October 16th, 2007 6:04 pm ET

I won't hold it against you, Obama.

VIDAL   October 16th, 2007 5:56 pm ET

I think this is something that we've let fade from the thought of HUMAN EXISTANCE... WE ARE ALL RELATED!

SISTERS AND BROTHERS...

NOW TELL YOUR CREATOR YOU DISAGREE!

Anonymous   October 16th, 2007 5:55 pm ET

Ah HAA! So he's a Muslim AND a Republican. Obviously this man can't be trusted.

Ryan, Los Angeles CA   October 16th, 2007 5:55 pm ET

Who cares?

Gary, Houston, TX   October 16th, 2007 5:52 pm ET

One is black, the other's heart is.

naomi,nyc,ny   October 16th, 2007 5:50 pm ET

really? Whatever she want us to think!

Don, Atlanta GA   October 16th, 2007 5:50 pm ET

That's okay – Brack comes from the side of the family tree with brains and a better aim!

Joan Nicholson   October 16th, 2007 5:49 pm ET

I'd like to hear more about this Massachusetts relative and how they were related back in the 17th century.

George Chicago   October 16th, 2007 5:40 pm ET

Yea, Bush has more class in his pinky than Obama has in all of his family tree.

james,boston,ma   October 16th, 2007 5:38 pm ET

stop fooling us!

David, Dallas Tx   October 16th, 2007 5:37 pm ET

That's it. No way I'm voting for Barak now. ;)

Jim Bremer   October 16th, 2007 5:28 pm ET

This proves it – I always knew Barak Hussein was in cahoots with the Bushes and the Cheneys!

More reason to vote HILLARY !

Jim Bremer   October 16th, 2007 5:26 pm ET

What a wonderful family tree – one limb created Barak Hussein and other limb created Cheney who tortures people of Barak Hussein's religion ;-)

TJ WILLIAMS   October 16th, 2007 5:25 pm ET

Politics...strange bloodfellows...

joseph, austin, tx   October 16th, 2007 5:25 pm ET

I wonder will this revalation hurt obama in the eyes of the libs, hes related to satan himself, i knew obama was a demon.

laurinda,ny   October 16th, 2007 5:18 pm ET

Well if Obama ever got in (which he won't) that would mean that he would give his relative Cheney a job at the white house. We would never get than man out. That's probably why Cheney is smiling.

uriew, CA   October 16th, 2007 5:10 pm ET

Great CNN. You have perfected the ART of negative comments against Obama. You should win an award for that. Perfected the art of drugging Obama in the mud until nobody likes him anymore, but guess what the public will vote not the media.

Ryan, New York, NY   October 16th, 2007 5:10 pm ET

For all of you who incorrectly insist that Obama is a Muslim, would this link make Cheney a Muslim, too?

Dan Dean Orlando. FL   October 16th, 2007 5:07 pm ET

There don't seem to be many similarities... The black/white thing is perhaps the most minor of these factors... Barack is a humanitarian, Cheney is a misanthrope. Barack is a populist, and Cheney is a fascist. Barack would rather make love, not war!

demwit   October 16th, 2007 4:57 pm ET

I can even see the resemblance now that you mention it..

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