CNN

Make peace, not war!

Who cares if Stephen is on the ballet or not? I think the fact that he made it that far is funny. This country is too serious and needs to be lightened up. Maybe Stephen would be a great addition to the list of past presidents. He's probably do a better job then the past few presidents we've had. It would be like "Man of the Year" but real. The country can't get much worse, and I doubt that Stephen could send t he country into a depression.

Basically Give me a break, and give Stephen a chance. Serious or not, he deserves the possiblity

Our democracy is a joke. Every Americans are allowed to vote, but the list of candidates is determined by a very small group of people.
Are we really that different from China?

its cuz obama is scurrrrrrrrrrrred

From what I learned in school about who is the largest voting population regardless if they actually vote or not, Colbert's viewer population is that same population. College students 18-25. What more is that they don't even vote according to statistics I have learned from school. If the largest voting population who is at the same time the largest viewer population for Colbert, why can't he win THE ACTUAL PRESIDENTIAL ELECTION? This brings another issue, why do we have the need to seemingly mostly vote either DEM or REP? I would say after learning about PSYCOLOGY we as a nation are programmed to do so. There is also the issue of the electorial vote. Why do we still use it? It is out dated and the popular vote should be the only means of determining the winner. As to the question if Colbert would make an effective President, who is to say he would not until he actually has the chance to hold the position of president. Would Lincoln be able to win today in a presidential election if he were to run today, and growing up in today's US in a similar life as to the actually origins of Abe Lincoln. I would say we would not. I mean, we as a nation won't vote someone that has facial hair anymore. Why is that? Personally, the polical crap that happens in this nation is one of the reasons that makes me ashamed to me an American.

so the democratics have turned Colbert into Ralph Nader- convincing people that a vote for him is essentially hurting the democratics thats absurd- and any candidate who was worried about Colbert including Obama should just quit now

Besides, with the Writer's strike, Colbert has a load of free time...what better to do than make a strong run at the presidancy.

Colbert should run as a Republican...just get to get into the election. Look at the support he has. If he could get on the ballot, he would have a serious following.

Attention Obama Supporters:

Please stop it with the loony conspiracy theories. Please stop whining about so-called bias. Please stop calling it the Clinton News Network.

You sound like crazy people going on about Clinton like this. You are not helping out the candidate you supposedly support by making it look like only insane people are voting for him.

Posted By RP, City and State : November 7, 2007 11:57 am

WELL SAID! Obama sounds like a cult.

I think it's really...interesting, that people are calling Obama supporters losers, yet they don't even give their names? "Winner"?
I'll take my "silver" medal–of honor. the only silver–or gold for that matter–that you have is in your teeth.

Only the honest, intelligent members of society want Obama to win. Just because you can't handle a stand-up guy, doesn't give you the right to judge me. And there lays another unfortunate reminder that all this country seems capable of in unison, is making judgements on other people.
We ALL, yes, EVERY single person–need to start looking in the mirror more often(AND I DON'T MEAN TO CHECK OUR HAIR!!!!!!!!!) and stop running our mouths about other people.

Where in the text does it say that Obama instructed his staff to stop Colbert? It says "HIS SUPPORTERS"

People should wake up!!

Way to make yourself look like a jerk with no sense of humor Obama.

how is it that barack obama political ticker comments aren't restricted but Ron Paul's limit of comments are?

Attention Obama Supporters:

Please stop it with the loony conspiracy theories. Please stop whining about so-called bias. Please stop calling it the Clinton News Network.

You sound like crazy people going on about Clinton like this. You are not helping out the candidate you supposedly support by making it look like only insane people are voting for him.

The absurdity of our campaign process deserves ridicule and Colbert is just the guy to handle this assignment. If this country can't experience some lighter moments, the future is very bleak.

It was all a joke people! Have a sense of humor!

The reason there can even be a slip up on the Obama-Osama name is because the latter is still sipping tea with his American hating buddies while we're bogged down in Iraq. Rumsfeld said there were no good targets in Afghanistan for his toys. I can think of one good target....and again he's sipping tea with his American hating buddies.

Bush has been the biggest disaster for this country.

So, Obama supporters are blocking Stephen Colbert from being added to the primary ballot in SC. Does this strike anyone else as being strange? In a free country, they are spending time blocking someone from being put on a ballot instead of focusing on, oh I dont know... ISSUES!!! When will Obama and supporters realize that it will take a lot more then just Oprah's backing to make it in politics. Come on Team Obama, please realize that this country is still free and it will take a lot more then blocking people from being added to the state primary ballot and having the backing of Oprah to win the presidency.
P.S. Please don't stop free speech, because here is a short list of those who do.. Nazis, Communists, Islamic Fundamentalists... Lets not add to this list.

When there's a king, the only one who can speak truth to power is the court jester. Stephen was brilliant.

When Stephen signed off the night the SC Dem lady told him he wasn't on the ballot, he asked viewers to donate to a good cause for kids and said any one of them could grow up to be president. What a perfect dig. He had just demonstrated how that wasn't true. If you speak in comedy and are wildly popular, you can't be on the Democratic ballot. If you don't have $35,000 you can't be on the Republican ballot. And Mike Gravel demonstrated how corporate media owned by a gigantic company that makes money on war can "disappear" an anticorporate, antiwar candidate, when GE-owned NBC "disqualified" him from the Philadelphia debate. He had come too close to damaging war-friendly media-darling Hillary in the previous debate.

I'm sorry, but I think we needed Stephen more than we knew. God bless Amertica.

Obama cheerleaders ≠ Barak Obama himself

Learn it well.

That was a bad idea. Colbert was not going to do anything or take away votes from Obama or anyone else to amount to anything. I do not believe the people of this state is that dumb or at least enought of them to make a difference in the race for president.
Colbert not only tell jokes, he is a joke.

One of the points Colbert was making, and one that his been missed in much of the commentary I think, is the "bought" nature of our elections. He laid it on the line for us: the Colbert Presidency would be brought to you by the makers of Doritos–tasty and crunchy and cheesiful corn chips. Who else puts their sponsorship out on the table? Pres Bush?

First of all, it takes money to put someone on the ballot. Candidates have to pay $2,500 to be on the ballot, but that still works out as a loss for the Democrats (why do you think the Reps charge 35k!?)

So the South Carolina Democratic Party has every right to CHOOSE how they spend their budget, and who they spend it on.

If you don't like it, and are actually serious about this, take it up with the SCDP and get him back on the ballot. There's still time. But you'll need to do some work.

If Colbert is really serious about running, he should do it in Iowa where the process is FREE.

All this Obama-bashing is more than a little unfounded.

Obama or Osama, neither is good for America!!!

Obama can't control what "two prominent supporters" do. If they want to call and complain about the joke campaign of a t.v. comedian, that's their right. Honestly, we all should have been screaming about this. Frankly I barely registered its existance.

But they were right to complain. This is a serious election, the most serious we've ever faced, and South Carolina is at ground zero of determining the next president of this country.

If you get a bunch of jokers voting for Colbert because they like his show and they don't know the issues or the stakes, that could be bad for all the candidates, Obama included.

This was a bad joke to begin with and it just points out the stupidity of polls that Colbert would be running fifth, ahead of Chris Dodd, while making stupid jokes at rallies that obviously said his campaign was a farce.

its not right for CNN to lay the blame at Obama's door on this. He can't control the actions of supporters and frankly all the candidates should have been up in arms about this.

I guess they weren't because the demographic that watches Colbert is the same that supports Obama.

For those calling CNN baised:

You are kidding me right , if it had been Clintons support keeping Colbert off the ballot you would be screeming bloody murder if CNN didn't cover it. If your looking for one sided news coverage please check out Faux news network.

I can see how crazy republicans and Obama supporters are getting , must be close to election time. It really just shows how desperate you guys are. Obama is running out of steam (obvious by the fact he is no longer talking issues and just attacking anyone he can) and his supporters know they are going to loose.
Too bad they are trying to take down fellow Dems in the process out of frustration. Instead of directing their attacks on the failed republican policies.

Again, another laughable series of posts in a biased thread created by the Clinton News Network to rile up your sorry little carcasses.

Somehow I don't think soldiers dying and families destroyed in Iraq will think Colbert's comedic run for the White House is funny! Now don't get me wrong there is a place for everything but it?s going to far! This article is a slap in the face for young voters too. The media believes young voters don't see coffins coming home with our soldiers in them, the healthcare problems and the shaky economy. The media especially CNN is making a STUPID story about a comedian being off the ballot amusing at the voter expense. Colbert isn't someone who is running to help the country but someone who is running as a GOOF! The shame in it is we will see supporters of competing candidates spin this MOCKERY against Obama uncaringly. My sister works for the army! I don't want a comedian or TV network to put her life in its hands as a joke! I want someone to end the war! This is not a joke when this year alone over 800 solider have lost their lives. Please don't play political games or try to get ratings off of their deaths.

No one said that Colbert couldn't be on the state's ballot during the general election. The decision of who gets to run in the primary is a decision made entirely by the political party in question. Anyone can run for president as long as that person fulfills the requirements laid out by the secretary of state of each state they wish to run in.

The democratic and republican parties are running a purely internal contest to determine who will represent them. If Colbert really wants to run, he could run as an independent.

Funny that the vote was 13-3 and the article says 2 people. Seems to me that 11 others may have a brain of their own.

Worthless propaganda.

I agree with Sean Dayton Ohio "Wow, if Obama is worried about losing votes to Colbert then maybe he should give up now. Edwards had more to lose, being from SC, and he was having fun with the issue." We all know Obama has to hang on to the handful of voters he has. OBAMA is not the man. OBAMA is not ready to run this country. WE need strength. WE need experience. WE need some serious damage control. WE do not need him. Not now. Clinton is our person.

Clinton/Obama 2008 – Get America back on track!

Obama, I believe his trouble of ever getting elected is his involvement in the North American Union, so here we have it a man with his hands covered in oil.

This is proof positive that Democrats don't believe in Democracy. Obama should resign.

You Obama fans are real losers. Just take your silver medal and go back to wherever you're from.

CNN should be ashamed for the way that they have, both in broadcast and on this website, characterized this story. They will leave it up, of course, because it is generating interest (I understand that I am included in this). They aren't stupid. If you pair a picture of Obama with a headline like you have here...well, I though CNN had more class. You might as well be FOX.

greg, your an idiot! he would be Guiliani worst nightmare, because he can't throw dirt on him. Top cop? the cops don't even like Guiliani, neither do the fireman. get your facts right.

He may be as pure as the driven snow,but all republicans want Obama to win the democratic nomination so he can run against Guiliani. Think about it...Black male against top cop...who do you bet on?

Why do we bother...because unlike some of you, Americans actual care about this country and who represents us.

I suppose you are a HRC fan refusing to accept that she is a divider; first it was dividing republican Americans from democratic Americans. Now she is trying to divide men from women because she felt the men were being too hard on her. Are you people serious? Countries are losing respect for us daily. Pretty soon other countries will just start calling our bluff, and we will have no choice but war. And you people want a comedian to run for office. I’m sure the republicans would have choice not to have a field day with that one.

The posting on waterboarding/torture got 26 comments.

The posting on a comedian's fake campaign got over 300 comments.

All of you who are posting on this "ticker" are as much of a joke as Comedy Central could ever come up with.

People, people! Lets settle down and get real as in real politic. Steven Colbert is an admitted comedic satirist on the hunt for a few laughs and publicity. All well and good for Steven for that is the business he is in.

But Barak is in a different kind of business namely a vigorous and closley
contested bid for leader of the free world. Barak Obama has tremendous support amongst young voters throughout South Carolina and any erosion could tip (god forbid) that primary to The Billary's in a tight race.

Considering Colbert's actual admitted fear of actually becoming president,
he could inadvertently have an adverse
effect on Obama's campaign in SC hence the need to head this off and nip the Colbert's self indulgence for the good of us all. If Steven Colbert was really serious about leading and tackling the enormous responsibility of the Presidency, I would be all for his
sincere challenge for higher office.

I think it's funny that people say Colbert was making a mockery of the political system. It already is one, people. The fact that Colbert was denied a spot on the ballot is testament enough to that. An electoral system where only some people are allowed to run for political office is not a true democracy, is it now?

I understand Obama doesn't want this election be a 'joke,' but if Colbert went through the application legitmately, he should have been seriously considered a ballot spot.

And there's always a write-in campaign...

What a bunch of shrill, naive idiots! I'm hopin' you're all joking around, because if most of you seriously believe Stephen Colbert was running for president and that Obama shut him down, we've got a problem.
Colbert is a tv comedian, and he's not actually running. He's off the air due to the writers' strike, and that should give you a clue that he's not really a politician. Ask your nephew, granny. Colbert, who has lots of money right now, planned to pay to run as a Dem AND a Rep, but decided it wasn't worth it. He has always said he'd run ONLY in SC, and has made sure that he is a 'non-viable' candidate ineligible to run nationally. He just wants to be in a debate; remember, this is the guy who handed Bush his butt at the White House Correspondent's dinner.

Obama didn't 'do anything' to Colbert. How country are some of you posters? Colbert was amazed that someone might actually earmark the twenty grand to put him on the ballot, but he always knew they wouldn't. It's a stunt to promote his book, which is already a best-seller. Seriously, OMG, did you guys think Obama was stifling a legit candidate? South Carolina just said, ok, joke's over.

I am a huge fan of Colbert's,but there is nothing funny about this election. If Steve were serious, I would defend his right. Eight years of tears and fears leave little room for humor. GW is both funny and tragic. Sorry for the lack of humor and tolerance but we must keep out eye on the prize. As soon as we blink, the Republicans will steal another election.

Don't jump on Sen Barack Obama's to quick. The question should be to producer peter handy is who are these two prominent supporters. If you going to use Sen Obama picture on this statement, the names should in prints also you can ask them the question why. this is bad print on this just make people mad.

So what if even Obama himself went in to oppose Colbert?. America is a free country.

You think Hillary wants Obama to run!?

Please people and paid Clinton staff. We the people are smarter than to let some CNN tabloid headline sway our vote.

Obama Republican in South Carolina

Posted By Richard : November 6, 2007 11:02 am

well said

Anyone who changes their vote from Obama, simply because of this story, NEVER intended to vote for him anyway. They are brainwashable voters that are just as bad as a side-stepping, change positions every other second candidates. Hypocrites.
I'm sick of everyone accusing Obama of doing dishonest things. It's to the point that opposers have to make up accusations & pin things on him that he HAD NOTHING TO DO WITH!!! Even the STORY said "supporters". It could have been a real phone call from anyone in the country!!! Why are people so blind? They can't just let a good man be a GOOD MAN! They have to reach for any nonsense to degrade his character. Guess what? He IS a competitor because anyone who is an honest, hard-working, human being SHOULD be voting for him...wait...maybe he's not a threat since there don't seem to be very many honest people out there these days...
hmm?

Back in the 90's, my mother told me how she was having tea with her Republican neighbors. When the subjuect of President Clinton came up, her neighbors spewed off some hateful words about the President.

"I don't know why Republicans have to be so hateful." my mother said.

It's kind of funny, now, that supporters of Hillary Clinton are now spewing out the same kind of hateful rhetoric- as they have been since January- against people who are simply trying to compete with her for the nomination.

Acutally, it's not funny- it's downright sad.

i say good if they did. the colbert candidacy was a bad joke and people have a right to oppose it. if you're not serious about a presidential bid, then you shouldn't run. maybe Colbert figured that out and that's why he backed out. it was a joke that had gone way too far.

It's a shame that a high profile news organization like CNN is framing this issue in a way to unfairly hurt the Obama campaign. Obama wishes to bring real change to Washington, and because some supporters may have expressed concern over Colbert's inclusion on the ballot, he's now going to be the scapegoat for Colbert's foiled "campaign".

Keep in mind that Colbert's "campaign" was never legitimate. SC Democratic Party rules state that in order for a candidate to be included on the ballot, they must be a "nationally viable" candidate. Only running in one primary state is not the way to prove you're "nationally viable". Colbert may be popular and well known nationwide, but his comedic attempt to run for President makes a mockery of the American political system and deserved to be prevented.

But, this will likely not change the minds of blindly driven Colbert fans who believe their favorite comedian actually had a shot. Come on, it's time to grow up and realize that this election is entirely too serious to let something like this distract us from the REAL issues.

fOR those of you who won't vote for Obama because of this it is very sad.

Posted By Ronald Charles : November 6, 2007 12:30 pm

Don't worry – none of these knucleheads who are saying that because of this, they won't vote for Obama "anymore" were obviously not going to vote for him to begin with...and are trying to add some anti-Obama spin in addition to CNN's own anti-Obama spin, to make it look like this "issue" will actually have an impact on Obama.

I can see why Obama would not want this guy in the mix, the only Republican that does not want troops in Iraq, It's Right, It's the perfect republican Storm and it's ingenious$!! and it might just work. http://www.latifaz.com

Hey, I heard that the guy who just got arrested for murdering a Philadelphia cop had planned on voting for Hillary Clinton. Wow, Clinton and her campaign are nothing but vicious murderers. I was going to vote for her but not anymore – she's lost my vote!

Posted By Ethan Austin, TX : November 6, 2007 12:46 pm

It's THIRTY-FIVE

Every time I think that the human race (and I'm including the media in this) cannot sink any lower, an article like this appears.

With the important issues that are facing this nation today, this is what you report and comment about.

The only up side is that CNN and its Clinton robots can only come up with something as inane as Stephen Colbert in which to slam Senator Obama. Nothing of substance.

Presidential campaigns rely on supporters, so don't pretend you don't see the connection. Yes, Obama could lose many votes to Colbert, but other candidates could lose too. Regardless age, Colbert makes lots of sense to many, even for making a point about the political mockery. This was a stupid move by 'supporters'..

And don't get so worried about CNN bringing news about Obama. Get used with this, some are convenient, others not so good for his image! CNN is quite biased toward Obama anyway...

prez only has to be 35. ever heard of JFK?

Why was Cobert going to run again?
Ans: Oh! to get attention for his new book.

Who were going to vote for him?
Ans: Dump Americans

What happened with him getting on the Republican balot?
Ans: He was axed

So who is the real idiot now?
Those who are acting on a non story
This man had no mandate to run on. If he wants to be president he should get serious and start just like all potential candidates

Is this worth reporting?
Ans: Ofcourse because CNN is pro Hillary. They lack real negative stories to run against Barack Obama

Why not talk about JOhn Edward even?
Ans: He will reign on the big corpations and media including CNN if he wins.

Should i boycot CNN?
Ans: Yes because it is a disgrace to American values. I recommend you do same too.

Please do accurate and factual articles that really inform voters. It the duty of every new network to inform correctly and faily it's audience.

From someone who doesn't believe everything she reads or hears, this story seems to be something intentionally leaked to the media in order to kill Obama's credibility. I'm not buying it & neither will intelligent Americans. I am all for abolishing Party Affiliations in general. That way, America can lighten up & vote for individuals based upon their own voices & merits. Wouldn't that be a TRUE democracy? We decide for ourselves and toss the electoral voting procedure in the mud. Make it true that EVERY INDIVIDUAL VOTE COUNTS toward the WHOLE election, not just State. There was a comment from someone stating they are black & would not waste their vote on Obama, simply because they said he wouldn't win any state below the "Mason-Dixon" line. It is a travesty that Obama, a man I truly believe to be genuine, to lose this race because of racism. Seriously? I can't believe we are STILL dealing with that. Another reason our country should be ashamed.

This is by far the most misleading article about Obama thus far by CNN...or should I say Clinton's Nomination Network. Your journalistic integrety is going the way of Fox News. Way to go. Also, for all you ignorant Clinton backers...take it easy...sounds like you're getting nervous.

I think alot of you are forgetting that Colbert is a comedian and shouldn't be taken seriously. He is wasting people's time and that's why Obama's people dont want him. I dont know why people are so offended by this..he is NOT serious...he needs to get a life.

Colbert is my hero...but you cannot try to run in both Parties. Everyone knew it was a joke. The Democratic Committee was right to keep him off. And I don't blame Obama for this...he would have had the most to lose from Colbert's comedic candidacy getting on the ballot. I still love Colbert though!

CLINTON NEWS NETWORK,
1st of all, Colbert would not have been a detraction for Obama. Obama's supporters are much more serious. As you see some are coming even from Republican because they believe in Obama. So Obama's vote would have never gone to Colbert, a comedian who is trying to make fun of presidential politics instead of taking it seriously. However, weak supporters of Hillary or Edwards might have been gone to Colbert, benefiting Obama.

Secondly, SC democrats made the decision and they are not part of Obama campaign. If Obama had that much influence on democratic establishment on states, he would have been leading everywhere.

One thing is true though. This story goes on to say, how pathetic CNN is, the so called trusted news network. Also it reads the pulse of fear and desperation in Clinton's campaign. Hillary is playing gender card. Bill Clinton is blaming democrats that his wife is getting swift boated by her own party. And Clinton News Network is making headlines out of anything. This is the beginning of end of Clinton candidacy. Spin all you can until IOWA caucus is over.

That's a shame, Steve Tyrone Colbert IS the truth. He would have been a good president atleast better than Hillary. If Hillary becomes president that would be a joke. So, if we are going to be "joking" around anyways why don't we just have a REAL comedian do the job? Barack is just mad cause he sees his percentage points dropping fast and needed a way to pick them back up. BARACK, STOP HATING ON COLBERT!

Senator Obama had nothing to do with the phone calls...You people honestly need to learn to read...

I think the age for president is 36 or 37

You all MUST be kidding. Leave aside the fact that Obama's campaign clearly said they had no connection to this, does anyone seriously think a comedian doing a spoof candidacy in one state is something that should even be considered, let alone make news when some people think the electoral process should be taken just a little more seriously?

The biggest joke is the electorate making any of this an issue to even discuss. Wake up people. This country is a freaking mess! People are dying by the day in Iraq, people are barely making ends meet, the new AG claims not to know what waterboarding is, there's every chance this administration is trying to get us into a war with Iran - THIS is making news????????

CNN never misses an opportunity to bash Obama on anything. This is more proof.

How about running a story about how the Clinton campaign regularly spreads derogatory articles about her opponents to the press and blogs in order to slime Obama and Edwards behind the scenes while feigning innocense to the public. THAT's something to be concerned about. Read Salon.com's article. THAT's something that should anger people. That's something that is worthy of coverage on the Political Ticker. But don't ever expect any real investigation of Hillary on this site.

Get a clue people! You're being manipulated.

Let's see if CNN deletes this one. They have deleted two of my post already. Hmmm…are my posts not being Pro-Hillary agenda?

CNN is being ridiculous. Vinod Gupta must really be doing his work for the Clintons. How do they even know they were Obama supporters? Has this been verified? If one person felt intimidated, was this enough to change the vote. The vote would have been 12-4. Aaaaah……not much of a difference. Furthermore, this is a joke and just proves Mike Gravel right. We are getting fatter and dumber. Colbert was making a mockery of the system and he should not have been playing such a joke. I like his show and I think he is hilarious but now is not the time. Believe me, I would never vote for Hillary even if she was the only candidate on the ballot, but I would not raise a finger if her supporters did anything of this sort. Let’s not make a joke of the process. If he really wants to run, his supporters can raise the $30,000 for him to run as a Republican of he can run as an independent. Those saying that Obama has lost their vote because of this nonsense were never his supporters otherwise we would not see this dumbness coming out of their brains. Ivan bet you this was manufactured for Hillary’s benefit.

Posted By Gitahi, Dallas TX : November 6, 2007 12:26 pm

Gitahi, sorry to see Clitonians News network doing this to you....They are campaining for hillary and that way she can save her money because she has already assumed that she is the nominee and she is assuming other democrats... Now her network and her strategy to run like a nominee is backfiring on her big time...Obama support is surging and that is why they are posting this Kinda of stuff.....
Sorry to see this happen to us Gitahi...We will have to see this guy through. I am doing countdown down here in mass. I am a die hard till he wins....

Muthoni
Obama all the way!

This is really a no-issue. There is no reasonable argument Colbert was "nationally viable" if he only intended to appear on the ballot in S.C.

For being such an "intellectual" group of people here, I am shocked that people are still talking as if the Obama Campaign actually had anything to do with this. If people actually take the time to read and think, they will realize that these were just some Obama supporters and not anyone from his actual campaign....

Why are they wasting their time with this suppressing of Colbert being on the ballot (or not) I mean he has his reasons for running but really Obama supporters' and himself most especially should be trying to get people to vote for him not so much get rid of every joke candidate so he has a shot b/c if that's the case then he really never had a shot to begin with.

I think its rather funny that they feel threatened by Colbert. I watch him all the time and really like the guy. He's not only a funny guy, but he's very intelligent and wise in the political scene. I'm sure he'd eat either party up in a debate and spit them out. When compared to who's running now...I'd probably vote for him. GO COLBERT!!!

Jack that seems a little eratic don't you think. I don't Think anybody has to or needs to put Obama down, considering he does it on his own. I am curious to see how Hilary will get him back though.

People. Wake up. Really Wake up. Colbert was running for the Democratatic ticket in South Carolina. If any of you really think he could win is on some illegal substance. For those he think he spilt votes, then these candidates need take the voters serious. Listening to these candidates (all of them), they sound more like comedians than Colbert. Look at what these candidates have done not what they say. Stop being sheep (this applies to both parties).

I love when people use the term "making a mockery." When used to describe anything political it's redundant, when used to describe this PARTICULAR political story, it's downright ironic.

Let's see – a practical joker with a TV show that's figured out how to boost his ratings? I'll bet plenty of you tune in to see how poor Colbert handles the rejection. Jeeze – if you don't live in SC, then close your yap. Just think, he could've been your next Ronald Reagan. Leave Obama out of this. If they're not printing the names of these alleged supporters with so much influence in SC, I find it hard to believe any of this story.

Obama '08 will never happen. Why do you supporters bother?

It is pretty ridiculous to ban Colbert like that. He couldn't legally hold the office anyway. The Constitution states that a president needs to be at least 45 years of age. Perhaps Obama was afraid that Colbert would divide the votes that aren't going to Clinton.

Posted By Ethan Austin, TX : November 6, 2007 12:46 pm

You have to be 35, though the youngest ever was 42, Teddy Roosevelt.

Nice job CNN!!!
You proved me again that "CNN=Clinton News Network."
You are doing your best to spin every news possible.

Show us the video that Rudy mimicking Hilary.That was hilarious!!!

Not cool by the Obama camp. Sort of like the kid who tells on everyone.

http://www.wittybanter.wordpress.com

http://www.ColbertforSouthCarolina.com

join the movement. the SC dems have already been slammed with calls. help make it rain.

Colbert is already a president because he own his nation in his show,
We are looking for a real president of United states. We are a nation of freedom and prosperity..we are voting for barack Obama!

I hope CNN does not delete this one too. Let's checlk back in 3 minutes. Might be gone.

So now these Obam haters are worried that Obama has some poliotical muscles afre all? Duh! CNN is just targetting the naive idiots who are prone to believing this nonsense. How many of thge councilmen are Clinton's, Edwards supporters but were not mentioned on CNN. I will personally drive to Atlanta to bring CNN a get well soon card after Obama wins IA and NH. Enjoy your Clinton money while you ca.
GO OBAMA 08.

It looks like CNN will do anything and say anything (just like the Clintons)to score cheap political points. Why don't you come right out and say that you are trying destroy Barack Obama? It's no wonder that many people believe that CNN stands for Clinton News Network. Thanks for showing your true colors. As a woman, I will never support YOUR Hillary, nor will most of the other women I know.

Posted By MaryElaina, Washington : November 6, 2007 12:39 pm

It is true...Now that Hillary is going down everyday from the last presidential debate, when you see stuff like this you just know things are not too good with her and they are trying to throw Obama in the bandwagon.....I am a woman and I would pretty much like a woman as our President. I will Welcome any other woman other than Hillary.
Other women that are in my neighbourhood and friends are not supporting hillary. I can tell ya here is all Obama!
This guy is Amazing!
Barrack all the way!

I see Obama sheeple.

CNN why in the world would you think I would believe you.....I remember one of your major news reporter(the situation room) Wolf calling Obama Osama. He laughed out loud when he did this and nothing was done.
You said Obama went to madrassa till you went to his school in Indonesia for damage control to find the truth...
Now you are bringing this to promote your network with fake news, throwing mud at Obama...The part that you don't frame good is where you are saying it is Obama supporters. So then can we just support Obama because they didn't say he told them to call?
We know Colbert is 1. Promoting his book,
2. Promoting his show

3. Making his history

Please stop this because this country is becoming sickening everyday....It is so hard for our youth to focus on positives because of these kind of stuff!

CNN, Stop Spinning news and stop Spinning Obama!

Obama 08!

Obama and Colbert are the same – JOKERS!

Posted By anon, ottawa, OH : November 6, 2007 12:32 pm
You, CNN and Colbert must be Jokers because I know Obama is not!
Obama Voter!

It is pretty ridiculous to ban Colbert like that. He couldn't legally hold the office anyway. The Constitution states that a president needs to be at least 45 years of age. Perhaps Obama was afraid that Colbert would divide the votes that aren't going to Clinton.

Obama and Colbert are the same – JOKERS!

You, CNN and Colbert must be Jokers because I know Obama is not!
Obama Voter!

"Given the lopsided vote of the executive council, it was unclear if the calls had significant bearing on Colbert's fate as a bona fide presidential candidate."

Lopsided indeed so why even write this story? Colbert CLEARLY did not meet one of the standards in being a viable national candidate. Insanity has CNN become. Give me news on real issues, real policy, not phone calls made my independent citizens. I'm sure others, supporters of Obama, and other candidates called as well, to point out the absurdity of his candidacy.

Great work CNN your bias is showing. The screeching of Clinton supporters is growing now that her poll numbers are dropping and she was called out during the last debate. The call must have gone out on Hillary 41. Full speed ahead trianglators. It seems like her paid staffers are all over this blog. I wonder did they get this story from Drudge. Cnn always does. Drudge wants in with the Clinton campaign. That is why CNN's blog is so pro Hillary.

Please put this in your mental rolodex
The SC Democratic Party voted overwhelmingly to kick Colbert off 13-3.

Wow those two “supporters” who are NOT with the OBAMA CAMPAIGN BUT SUPPORTING HIM must be pretty powerful people. Clinton must be in trouble in SC. CNN and Drudge must have made a deal. We have to be distracted from the drubbing two faced Hill took last week.

The Obama campaign denied any connection to the phone calls.

While you believe what the media has written here, I think you should believe the above sentence too if you are not biased...

It looks like CNN will do anything and say anything (just like the Clintons)to score cheap political points. Why don't you come right out and say that you are trying destroy Barack Obama? It's no wonder that many people believe that CNN stands for Clinton News Network. Thanks for showing your true colors. As a woman, I will never support YOUR Hillary, nor will most of the other women I know.

This is crap CNN. Your "story" does not say it was Obama staffers. You lead people to believe that Obama himself did this. You create a non event and then force him to defend something he did not do. CNN shilling for HRC at your worst!
Shame on you.

Obama and Colbert are the same – JOKERS!

First of all, this article states that supporters of Obama were the “culprits”, not Obama himself. Second, Colbert cannot run in South Carolina as a Democrat - this does not mean he cannot run for president at all. There is nothing in the Constitution that requires one to run for president in a political party. As long as he meets the constitutional requirements (such as being at least 35 years old and a natural born citizen) he can run. By the way, I learned the requirements to run for president when I was in high school so I am disappointed that so many people do not know them, but I guess if 20% of the nation cannot even find the US on the map, then ignorance must be typical.

fOR those of you who won't vote for Obama because of this it is very sad.

Obama is so clean such that the media is trying to around and bring stuff that will slow him down.....I think this is a black white thing where a white guy's book is being capitalized through a black guy....Cnn I stopped to be serious when I am watching your news just like I assume I don't have a president right now....
Obama, You will be a great President!

#1. If you are going to post anything on the internet about a serious topic like the presidential campaign, PLEEZ UZ CURRET GRAMMER AN SPELLIN! You look like utter fools when you don't and your opinion cannot be taken seriously.

I believe Colbert has already achieved exactly what he set out to prove at this stage: There are immense barriers (even if you meet all the "requirements" and pay the $$$) set up by both parties to keep out anyone they do not want/fear.

Colbert has/is going to expose the corruption and underhanded techniques of "supporters" or "staffers" or "spokesmen" or whatever other silly legal line of distinction you want to draw among them to keep out anyone who may steal a few votes from their candidate rather than let them in and have to fight for the vote through actual, thoughtful campaigning.

I knew, the moment Colbert announced his campaign, that it would not be long before the Obama and/or Clinton lawyers got involved to block him. (Republicans would just call the Death Star and get Karl Rove to eliminate Colbert if the Dems were not smart enough get rid of him on their own)

I would urge Colbert to continue his Presidential Campaign for a few reasons:
1. Try to get the votes required to get government funding for the 2012 race!
2. Divert some resources from Clinton & Obama (both would be disasters as President)
3. Show the American people the crooked underbelly of political campaigns and the candidates in both parties vying for their vote. They will all do and say ANYTHING to get that vote.

All the Obama "supporters" defending him in this space have only proven that there IS something there that needs defending. Obama's handlers have obviously done something shady (but legal) to derail the electoral process by excluding a qualified citizen.

We have reached a sad point in this great country when the only candidate who represents truthiness and is straightforward with us is a comedian from a fake news show on cable TV. The fact that even the liberal Socialists (oops, I meant Democrats) want this guy (with a moderately powerful media outlet at his disposal) out of the race speaks volumes.

The day of the You Tube presidential campaign is here! If the princess crying about Brittney Spears can get so many views, I would hope a viable third part candidate could use You Tube as well.

Crazy Theory #762:
The Writer's Guild strike was propelled by the Democratic Party as a way to get The Colbert Report off the air.

**Position Disclaimer**
I am neither Democrat nor Republican and currently support NONE of the current presidential candidates.
I am a gun toting, legalize it, for the death penalty type of person who is bigoted towards intolerant, ignorant and lazy people of all races and creeds. Even if we have no one worth voting for on the ticket at this point, it is our civic duty to pick the least worst candidate for the job in 2008.

So, let me get this straight, a couple of Obama supporters (not payed campaign staffers) attempt to block Colbert from the the Dem. ticket in SC and somehow it's Hillary's fault that it was reported by CNN????

Way too funny, keep dreaming!! Going negative is still not going to get your guy the nomination!

This is mud slinging at its best....
Cnn Quit this game!!!
Obama 08!

It's pretty simple:

1.) South Carolina is an early state caucus so it's important to get a victory there.
2.) Real or fake some people would have voted for Colbert. Likely Colbert voters include young people and those that don't trust the system. That's Obama's supposed sweet spot.
3.) So, Obama supporters fought to get him off the ballot so he wouldn't take away votes from their candidate. It's politics as usual.

Anyone that thinks Obama or his supporters represent real change are just misguided. Obama has to run on a campaign based on change and hope because he has nothing else to run on that differentiates anything he says from the other Democrats. Don't be fooled, Obama is just as Washington as anyone else in the race.

So much for him accusing Clinton of double talk. What is it they say about people that live in glass houses?

Let's see if CNN deletes this one. They have deleted two of my post already. Hmmm...are my posts not being Pro-Hillary agenda?

CNN is being ridiculous. Vinod Gupta must really be doing his work for the Clintons. How do they even know they were Obama supporters? Has this been verified? If one person felt intimidated, was this enough to change the vote. The vote would have been 12-4. Aaaaah……not much of a difference. Furthermore, this is a joke and just proves Mike Gravel right. We are getting fatter and dumber. Colbert was making a mockery of the system and he should not have been playing such a joke. I like his show and I think he is hilarious but now is not the time. Believe me, I would never vote for Hillary even if she was the only candidate on the ballot, but I would not raise a finger if her supporters did anything of this sort. Let’s not make a joke of the process. If he really wants to run, his supporters can raise the $30,000 for him to run as a Republican of he can run as an independent. Those saying that Obama has lost their vote because of this nonsense were never his supporters otherwise we would not see this dumbness coming out of their brains. Ivan bet you this was manufactured for Hillary’s benefit.

Anybody who says he/she will not vote for Obama coz of this news is plain STUPID and very superficial. If you read this news it says two Obama supporters it has nothing to do with Barack Obama's intention. Anybody else who posts saying "you just lost my vote" is evidence of the flimsy mindedness many voters are who do not stop to think and understand the story more. go ahead prove how dumb and superficial you are by taking this CNN spin-off story seriously!

Posted By Tere, FL : November 6, 2007 12:13 pm

Thank you....This is all about Colbert book which was on Cnn Larry King....People Please do your homework before you believe this clinton news network....I thought people have known their country by now.....Know the truth and will set you free..

I'm actually impressed he flexed some political muscle. That's how elections are won, and sadly that's why many Democrats ultimately lose.

What a nation we live in… our representatives vote to remove VIABLE candidate Colbert off of the ballets, but we have Bush re-elected. I thought this country was a democracy, run by the people? No one ever asked me my opinion, or my neighbor's opinion, or probably yours either, reader. I want to vote for my OWN choice of candidate. I do not want my options filtered by some committee of whom I know nothing about.

I think what we need for a president is simply a positive diplomat for our great nation. With Bush in office, we have severed so many ties with the rest of the world. Pick up a newspaper in almost any major city; you’ll see that a majority of the world has negative feelings toward us. It didn’t used to be like this. We used to be admired… almost feared because we were so powerful. Now we’re the jerk that stays around at the party that ended hours ago. I think you understand what I’m saying.

Although it is the President that ultimately has the final say on almost all domestic and world issues, he is surrounded by a team of the most talented individuals in the world. They do all the research, the development, the planning, the forecasting, and the execution. The President simply gets the credit, whether it is successful or not.

My point is; I would be much more comfortable with a person like Colbert to address our nation’s world interests than I would anyone else right now. Everyone else is too abrasive, too unlikable, and too unviable. And let’s get serious; by the time he’s elected, Bush will have been running this country for 8 years. Can it really get any worse?

Posted By Jeremy Detroit, MI : November 6, 2007 8:37 am

While I don't despute we live in a great nation.....I don't think this is the right time to have such people as colbert...May be 20years from now or before all these mess. Another thing is we don't need an administration that all what they are going to do is blame game and blocking each other.....and that is why I am with Barack all the way...
Also I don't think colbert was serious....He is coming when it is alittle late and we don't know much about him those who don't watch his show....I just don't want games in the next 16yrs or so.....
I am voting Obama

I am baffled as to why anyone would care if Colbert was added, given that he has no intention of even trying to win. If someone is afraid of loosing votes to someone like that, they need to look after their own campaign a little better.

We can't have Colbert's truthiness ruining the campaign. He takes a clear stand on so many issues that he would destroy our perception of what a political candidate is. Also, as someone stated, he is in the pocket of the snack food industry and he would force his nacho cheesiness on the nation so good riddance!

I was inclined to support Obama, now I'm disinclined. I hope he loses more votes countrywide then he would have lost in South Carolina

Posted By Bob : November 6, 2007 9:42 am

Just few words.....American people are not stupid!!! You can not even read the headline and see what it is- supporters- What do you read?

Anybody who says he/she will not vote for Obama coz of this news is plain STUPID and very superficial. If you read this news it says two Obama supporters it has nothing to do with Barack Obama's intention. Anybody else who posts saying "you just lost my vote" is evidence of the flimsy mindedness many voters are who do not stop to think and understand the story more. go ahead prove how dumb and superficial you are by taking this CNN spin-off story seriously!

Doesn't CNN(Clinton News Network) have real news to Print?????Instead of the LIES!!!!!Look we know you got the story from the Clinton Campaign.....They control you(CNN).Not The American People!!!!
Obama is the People's choice.

Big question: Why were Obama's peeps afraid of Colbert? Would he drain votes from BO?

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

Are you KIDDING? This is just another CNN ridiculous spin. An Obama SUPPORTER (of which there are hundreds of thousands of us) was just following the rules for filing to run for president and said so. Period.
I can't believe you've wasted space to write such pointless article; I can't believe I took time to read it, and I can't believe anyone would actually think that Barack would have any motive to do this.

Just another Clinton News Network desperate attempt to make up negativity where there is none concerning her number one major threat.

Posted By Kelly Hackleman, Burke, VA : November 6, 2007 9:25 am

It looks like racism too....Mud slinging...I had missed the word SUPPORTERS when I first read that article and now that I read it I don't even Obama picture is supposed to be up here.....They could have brought those supporters and to support their claim well bring a clip.....They are using Obama's name to promote Colbert show and make him look better than Obama. Leave alone to think there will be a book coming.....This is a big shame!
I am Obama supporter and will rest when he gets in that office and paint white house to black house this time around....I am on countdown!!

It is disingenuous to blame Obama for what the South Carolina Democratic Party Executive Council has done. The last time I checked every person had a free will. I will bet real money there are supporters of every candidate who have some sort of skeleton in their closet.

Are the candidates responsible for supporters' actions? I say no, otherwise every parent who raised an adult child who committed a crime should be held responsible for those actions. Who is the responsible party in this situation? The person committing the action, not the candidate being supported.

I will say however, even in light of the premise Colbert might be joking, the fact that a 16 member committee can choose who we vote for seems very shifty to me. You say Colbert is a joke? Then don't vote for him. As an American he should have every right to run for public office representing the party of his choice regardless of his own personal reasonings. It is up to the voters to decide whether he is worthy, not a 16 member committee.

So much for democracy. No wonder other nations point at us and laugh.

I love it. Dems scream and plead for rights for all. But when someone they don't like wants to run they throw him away.

Obviously CNN is employed by the Clinton campaign. What is it with these people? Taking cues from Fox News?

Although, I’m not in anyway a fan of Stephen Colbert or his brand of “humor”, and I do use the word very loosely, I think it speak volumes about Mr. Obama “the candidate for change” that he would go to that extreme to put down the competition. Anyone who believes he had nothing to do with it is as stupid and gullible as they think you are. Every time his name gets connected with something during this campaign he jumps out and disassociates himself, heck just say “yeah, I did it, and here is why…” stop trying to play me for a fool!

I hope you all realize that this story doesn't quote any sources by name. In fact, some guy I know told me both Edwards and Clinton supporters were responsible. No, seriously. CNN please report it because I'm completely reliable. Sad day when the news media becomes nothing but an expensive blog.

Say it together now. J-O-K-E, JOKE.
Get it?

"This just goes to show you how low these Democrats will stoop to keep a good Jesus loving man who thinks with his gut out of their party! Why are they too cowardly to let him in? Do they really hate America this much?"

"Its not just Obama's people that are at fault for calling for a crucifixion of values that reminds me of the freeing of Barabas, but the entire Democratic party! FOR SHAME!"
Posted By Chris Foosman, Carbondale IL

Are you serious?
For the love of Mike, Colbert NEVER HAD ANY INTENTIONS of Running for President. IT WAS HIS IDEA OF A JOKE. And an inane and very poor one at that! PERIOD.

You people need to get a grip. If Colbert had any possibility of being elected as President than ALL AMERICANS should throw their hats in the ring! Mays well make it an All American Circus!

Unbelievable that Americans actually think this Stunt had real intentions!

Maybe we could get to more important news stories. Like, this year showed the highest number of US Soldiers killed in America!

Like the US Economy is at it's lowest in history.

Like the US Dollar is worth twenty-five cents less than the Canadian dollar for the time in History!

Like Pakistan is on the brink of disaster which will mean another disaster for the world!

Comedy and Comedians have no place in the travesties occuring in our world today. PERIOD.

Sean, you hit it right on the head.

It's embarrassing that so many people have fallen for this joke!

Why is anyone spending time already on all this drama and Washington intrigue when the public is constantly saying we just want Congress and the Presiddent to do the peoples'work ? If these unelected candidates are talking about issues not related to our everyday security and well-being, what the heck will they talk about when they're safely ensconced in office? Why don't we get back to the qualifications of these candidates and forget the soap opera stuff...

This is a sad commentary on the Presidential race in itself. If anything, Colbert would have drawn attention in the 18-29 demographic about the importance of voting. Instead, it is now merely a chance wasted

So What!! Colbert was Joking and that Joke would have cost my party $20,000. Hillary's campaign supported and encouraged Colbert's Fake bid, which shows she's willing to trash the democratic process to win an election for herself. HRC supporters are conveniently ignoring that part of the story. For the record, no one is fooled by those fake " he's lost my vote", claims from the HRC supporters. Because of you Hillary has just lost my vote too!!

Nothing has changed. It is still politics as usual for the Obama campaign.

I find it impossible that the local supporters in SC would have used their influence without the knowledge of the Obama campaign.

So much for the Democratic process. Is this what we can expect with a Democrat in the White House?

Hey I love Colbert, but the Colbert we all know is a FICTIONAL CHARACTER. The run was a joke and I don't blame SC dems for not wanting the joke to be on them.

Not to mention the headline is misleading – Obama had nothing to do with this.

I was under the impression that in this country, anyone was able to run for president. I know Colbert didn't have the backing nor the desire to run a national campaign but if I chose to vote for him anyways, that is MY desicion as an American. Obama's people have no right telling me who I can and can't vote for because it's taking votes away from them. They only hurt themselves in this, now those who wanted to support Colbert in spirit won't support Obama on paper.

i agree but a lot of times there are people who just vote with no idea of why they are voting for someone

Whoa, taking votes from a viable candidate to give to an unviable candidate. This seems to imply, that all votes are cast "for" someone and never "against" someone. Colbert's candidacy provided an opportunity to vote against the grossly "defunct" electoral process in this country. It would be totally expected that both the Democratic and Republican parties would oppose such an opportunity for the American people as they have in the past. Remember, we are the governed, and our elected officials know what's best for us because they have spent tons of money and lots of time listening to professional lobbyists and special interest groups (including PAC's). We are no longer able to elect candidates who reflect our interests or desires; but are now forced to chose between the lesser of evils. The democrats and the republicans will always fear the destruction of a two party system, because it will steal away the corrupt systems they have worked so long to create.

Obama is such a fake.

Shame on Obama. He must have thought that Colbert was going to take votes from him.

I don't understand what all the complaining is about. I live in Indiana, so I have never had a say in who the Democratic or Republican candidate will be. It's been decided by Iowa, New Hampshire, and the Super Tuesday states. The electoral college then ensures that my vote in this solidly red state will never make a difference, whether I vote Republican or Democrat.

It is truly pathetic that anyone with influence, whether they worked for the Obama campaign or not, felt that Colbert was a large enough threat that they kept him off the ballot. Sounds like his so called supporters don't have much confidence in him. Really, shouldn't they have known better than to have done something this dumb? They knew this was going to get associated with Obama's campaign. Yeesh!

In fact, the only thing dumber here are all of the comments trying to make this about Hilary Clinton. Why do y'all keep bringing her up? Seriously, you sound like crazy conspiracy theorists. You're worse than the Ron Paul supporters. They're annoying but they don't sound nuts.

Im glad Colbert is gone and off the ticket , What he was trieng to do is to distract people from voting for the right canditate , its no suprise also that the republicans were happy with this because he is obviously a conservative who was going to be disguised as a democratic ,and then have voters who did not want to vote for a democratic vote for him .

Kind of like ralph nader stealing votes from Gore in 2000 .

Obama is afraid of Colbert taking away his votes, as Obama is taking away HILLARY's votes. As typical Obama, do as I say, not as I do.

What a phoney and hyprocritic politicain of Obama! He definitely does not have my vote!

I just wanted to respond to "JB Boston MA" who stated that Colbert's run was mocking us all at a time of crisis in this country. What JB doesn't get is that we are in a crisis because the system that is preventing Colbert from running has been mocking us for decades! The political system in this country has gotten so bad that the founding fathers would revolt against it. King George wasn't beaten by the colonists, he is sitting on his throne in Washington. Colbert merely brings the absurdity of our ruling class governement to the forefront. So JB...Clinton, Bush, Obama...they all continue to mock you and the rest of us .

PETER HAMBY SHOULD BE ASHAMED!!

This article perpetuates all that is wrong with the American Media, and specifically CNN. Stop inflating supporters of a specific candidate to the level of being the voice of that candidate. As if Obama cared one iota about Colbert in South Carolina.

Give me a break.

What's next?

Racist Hillary supporter means that Hillary's a racist?

For as cute as it may seem,and i'm sure some of us remember when Pat Paulsen ran for president against Nixon,there is no place for this kind of celebrity self endorsement in this day and age. Taking away a legitimate vote for the sake of a publicity stunt not only waters down the process, but endangers the chance of a legitimate candidate (and it may be YOUR candidate)of winning that state.
The right decision was made keeping Colbert off the ballot.

When is the older generation of Americans going to realize that this is not just their country? Is it any wonder why political apathey is as high as it is with 20 & 30 somethings when our opinions keep marginalized? I am utterly disgusted with the political process today. When, as Americans, are we going to stop filling our children's heads with lies about opportunity, equality and freedom if a committee can deny someone the ability to run for president because he may detract votes from other candidates? Isn't that the point of democracy!? Maybe only one person should be allowed to run for President, a democrat or a republican, that way he will get 100% of the vote and it is everyone's fault when things go wrong.
While Colbert's act may have been a joke, the real joke was how quickly people moved to keep him from running! Colbert has shown in about a week, on a national scale, that our beloved system is broken.

What right does Obama have to oppose anyone on the ballot? I love the way people say that Colbert would have been 'taking away Obama's votes.' They're not 'Obama's votes', they're free to go to whoever the people want to give them to. And if some people wanted to vote for Colbert instead of Obama, despite the fact that his campaign was obviously more of a statement then an actual run, then God Bless.

Obama is afraid of Colbert taking away his votes, as Obama is taking away Obama's votes. As typical Obama, do as I say, not as I do.

What a phoney and hyprocritic politicain of Obama! He definitely does not have my vote!

The Democrats missed the boat on this one. They should have embraced his run and laughed along with him about it. He was not serious and wouldn't have been able to campaign much so he wasn't a threat. The Dems, who I support, are gutless and this proves it more than anything: they are afraid of a silly comedian!! Wow!

I agree it was not Obama doing this specifically but clearly someone who has interests in Obama doing well in SC DID take these measures to keep Colbert off the ballot. Let's be honest, depending on the poll you looked at, Obama and Colbert were polling around the same numbers in SC...if you took those numbers seriously, which I did not. That apparently came off as a threat to some of the Obama supporters.

Oh, writers, please end your strike now so Colbert can be back on TV to lambaste the Dems for being gutless wonders! Being the worst president in history, Bush is comedy gold for comedians, but apparently the Dems want to give him a run for his money!

As in Obama's senate race and now in th presidential pursuit, he double-talked and played dirty politics. He might have learnt these dirty poltiical tricks from his young days in the dictatorial muslim country of Indonesia. What an upbringing!

Who cares. CNN is really going to bat for their girl Clinton now. She must be in trouble.

This whole "he might take votes away" mentality is actually an inference to how stupid these campaigns think the voters are! It's our vote, we can do what we want with it!

Complete lack of respect for the voters.

"I placed the calls as a concerned Democrat, realizing that we are a country in despair," Sellers told CNN. "It is not a time for games or to make a mockery of the process."

Like both democrats and republicans haven't already made a mockery of the offices in which they hold. I am African American and I am becoming more disgusted with the democrats everyday. Obama will NOT get my vote. Hillary is a wicked corporate controlled she-devil. Ron Paul is the answer baby. Support the Ron Paul revolution!

Colbert was the only one in the last four years who actually spoke truth to power (did everyone already forget the White House Correspondents Dinner?). He's funny – but the message is no joke. A couple of heavy Obama supporters have helped silence the satirical voice of reason. No other Dem has spoken so forcefully. I'm writing in Colbert and dropping Obama – my previous choice.

They excluded him mainly because they know that he is very popular with the younger generation and is actually very correct on many topics that he talks about. It's sad really that politics are that controlled and that people can't vote for who they really want.

Give up folks, apparently the rules for posting here are first, read the headline....second, post a reactive commentary...third, leave.

And then we wonder why 25% of the people are Republicans and they still run the table. Asinine headlines posted by Republican ownership who fixed it so that Colbert couldn't even entertain the idea of being on the ballot there...

If Obama's supporters are so worried that a comedian will take away some of their precious votes that leads me to conclude that Obama isn't a viable candidate. I hope he gets crushed in S. Carolina and everywhere else; if he doesn't have the guts to take on all-comers in one puny state how can he have what it takes to lead on the international stage?

I don't understand how the writers strike would affect shows like Colbert’s or John Stewart’s. Couldn't they just replace their current writers with some of the staff from Al Jezzera? I'd bet that no one would notice any difference, well maybe it would be slightly more pro America, there are few people in this world that can duplicate the hate, lies, and distortions of America's liberal democrats.

Rob, Chicago, Illinois,

It's not that Colbert didn't have enough money to run on the Republican ticket, he wasn't allowed to spend more than $5,000 on his campaign without legal ramifications for promoting his campaign on his TV show.

So, to legally promote his campaign on his show, he could only apply for the Democratic side.

I do agree with you though, a lot of people seem to be mistaken about the fact that anyone CAN run for President, just not on the Democratic or Republican tickets without approval. He can run as an independent if he likes.

Good Going OBAMA Supporters you seem afraid! perhaps your candidate is not shuch a shoe in as everyone wants to believe... this is the primaries! let people decide whom they want! Colbert won't get the nomination in his state, but who are they to take it upon themselves to pressure officials to turn him down this way... good going!

What does Obama have to do with it? Aren't his supporters free Americans? It is a Democrat Primary isn't it?
Besides, I thought Colbert was a cheese.
Maybe Lou Dobbs will support him as an independent.

This is outrageous! There were 13 our of 16 people on that committee that voted against Colbert being put on the ballot. Come on CNN, please be fair and tell us how many of those 13 are Clinton supporters, Edwards supporters, etc. To frame this like the Obama campaign had anything to do with it is beyond irresponsible.

And, to those of you who won't vote for Obama because of this it is very sad that you don't see through this garbage and are that easily swayed by the media.

I think it's wrong to dismiss someone running for president because he knows the people's veiws. Obama knows that he will lose if Colbert runs. I think it's stupid.

This is pretty sad, whether or not Obama's campaign played a big role. The committee used the excuse of Colbert not being viable enough, but he was already polling better than at least a couple of the "viable" Democratic candidates that the committee did allow.

Colbert is just a comedian, but frankly I think I might prefer him over almost anyone from either the Democratic or Republican parties. Humor as sharp as his suggests that he's more tuned in to important matters than any of the mainstream candidates are.

We like to think anyone can run for office in this country, but there are very real barriers. Colbert paid the fees and acquired the necessary signatures, yet a committee was able to keep him off the ballot just because they didn't like him. That sounds like something I'd expect in China or Pakistan, but not in the United States.

I was going to vote for Obama but not now. I guess it was a valid concern that more people would vote for Colbert....that should be telling to the candidates that they are not in touch...

Mark Penn and Hillary if nothing else are genius at slime.

What better way to distract from her flipper caricature that is now getting embedded into the American psyche after last week's debate than to play the victim and now get CNN(Clinton Network News) to put up this tabloid headline.

Good work Penn. Hope you've got another job lined up for 08.

Obama is an idiot for this. If you want a stable (or more stable) nation you will have to vote Clinton.

I guess Osama and Hillarity don't want any more competition......

iThink that everyone who was serious about their job and career pressed to keep Colbert off the the ballot. Funny guy, but silly quest, he did have a chance in hell.

http://GreenCiti.WordPress.com

Well.., that's the last straw, Obama just lost my vote.

Come on, people. I'm a huge Colbert fan, but if you think that no one would have voted for him, your crazy...I was just at the Philly Dem debate and there were several Colbert supporters. HAnd, yes, they werea ll potential Obama supporters...you can'tlose that demographic to a mockery of the system. He's not running for President and his appearance on the SC ballot would only serve as a spoiler. SC is a very important primary and Obama (or any other candidate needs every vote. Plus, with every poll showing Hillary in the lead he DOES need every vote.

PS, He doesn't have goons...as someone so dumbly stated.

88 comments in an hour- mostly from frustrated, angry Hillary Clinton loyalists-

After Mrs. Clinton's dismal performace in the debate last week, and the backlash against her gender self-victimising, her supporters are desperately going into high gear to smear her opposition.

Sadly, Mrs. Clinton will likely get the nomination and because of the vile nature of her campaign, she will end up losing the general. Get ready for President Mitt or President Rudy.

I support Barack in 2012 when Mitt or Rudy is running for re-election.

I'm sure that Colbert did not intend to win. However, it would have been a chance for people to vote for someone who is outside of the politics that hold this country in bondage. Someone who is not "Lobbying" for anything just because he can make money off of it, or because it is what his party says to do. Anyone off of the street should be able to run for president. It should not depend on the smount of money you have or your status in the eyes of politicians. I am urged to write in Steven Colbert on the ballot of the primary election just because he is not affiliated with the "political mindset" of our failing government. He can see the real United States that we all fight for without being blinded by lobbyist.

I can't believe Obama would do this. I have been an ardent supporter for 6 months and I am disgusted by his actions here.

OBAMA YOU LOST MY VOTE!

he's a comedian people, it was a joke! if you would actually even consider voting for him, this country is in trouble.

This IS an Obama "hit piece" plain & simple!!!
At least when Obama criticizes Hillary he does it directly & articulates it. Every criticism of Obama comes through back channels & they are NEVER about his positions or policies. They're always insinuations about his character.
The #1 threat to a Clinton Presidency is Obama & that's why he's being marginalized & criticized through the Clinton war machine. The Democratic party has a long history of challenging candidacies & it always comes from the top. Don't forget Bill Clinton was instrumental in organizing the DNC. Obama is the real deal (if he wasn't you wouldn't hear squat about him. Peace.

Colbert is making a mockery of the election. He is bad for the country.

This is ridiculous. Obama did not do this. Lets see who everyone on the council is supporting and attack those candidates too. CNN really needs to change that headline or expand the article to include the views of all involved in the voting, and anyone who might have called them.

lol to you all who think he's actually running for president

You have got to be kidding me! Did you people even read the whole article?Obama didn't make the phone calls some of his supporters did! Two prominent individuals who probably didn't like the thought of Colbert making a mockery of the election process in their state. He was running in ONE state people. He didn't meet the state criteria of financials or viability. He didn't want to be President. He wanted this to be one big joke!

Obama is one of the few who recognized the danger of having a candidate who is in the pocket of the greasy snack food industry. Colbert would have brought back the Frito Bandito as his running mate, thus assuring the vote of every illegal, unregistered alien in the United States. Before you know it, small children would be addicted to onion dip and potato chips would be served in every school.

This is just another reason I'll be voting Green instead of Democratic. Dirty scoundrels. Inez's "little corruption" may not be as punishable as taking bribes, but it's no less democracy killing.

I sincerely wish that Democrats would stop pinning themselves up on a cross as being victimized by "the slimmest of margins".

Guess what? Ralph Nader didn't cost you 2000, you did. Bush sucks, yes, but maybe if the Democratic party handlers had been competent, they would have won or found a way to incorporate the things that drew voters to Nader.

This isn't supposed to be about "Which of two specific political parties will be our next president". This is supposed to be about Americans being able to make an informed choice on any candidate that they hear from.

This means that it's disgusting that organizations like CNN only allow Republican and Democratic candidates into debates - You may not like what a third party candidate has to say, but it at least provides some new element that the two major parties must respond to.

This election, and this event in particular, represent everything that drove me away from the study of political science and public administration.

JB, I'm going to assume that you're lacking in the intelligence department. Colbert has been getting our country interested in what's going on in our politics (( especially the new generation of voters )), and underneath his jokes he has serious views about our country. If you can't see that, then maybe you need to sit down and take a deeper look at Colbert.

He is not an idiot - He is an incredibly intelligent man and he knows what he's doing and what he's saying.

And gee, I have to agree. I thought any US born citizen could become president... How stupid of me. No - A committee of random people nobody's heard of can make our decisions for us.

Thanks guys!

This CNN article is false reporting. If one can label "Obama team helps kill Colbert campaign" because of the actions of a supporter of Obama (according to CNN, not verified), one can say the Clinton campaign robbed the American people because of the fraud of Hsu. Note, Hsu is more than a supporter of Hillary: He is a huge fundraiser, a person who recruits supporters. How can CNN be so irresponsible? What happens to journalism?

America doesn't need another comedian as President. We already have one and that hasn't worked out to well...

So what if even Obama himself went in to oppose Colbert?. America is a free country.

You think Hillary wants Obama to run!?

Please people and paid Clinton staff. We the people are smarter than to let some CNN tabloid headline sway our vote.

Obama Republican in South Carolina

Mr. Colbert reminds me of way back when Pat Paulson ran for President. I like watching Mr. Colbert but don't feel he would make a serious President. Maybe I'm wrong, maybe we need some laughter in the White House. It would be better than now when the White House gets laughed at.

Learn to read past the headline, folks. Obama had NOTHING to do with it. His supporters, not staffers, called asking about the situation and ONE member of the council FELT intimidated. They're passing the buck to Obama and you sheep are eating it all up.

I like a few of the ideas that have been posted if you want to see Colbert run:
1. Write him in (can work on both the Republican and Democrat ballots).
2. Send money so he can run as a Republican.
3. Or lastly, he can run as an independent.
Let's not give up on this election, this is the most important election of our time – and it is important we stay involved.

If all of you have your way and Ralph Nader gets on the ballot in 2008, then say hello to another Republican in the White House.

Everybody needs to just calm down. Obama's people were either scared of losing votes or don't have a sense of humor. Thats ironic considering Obama's mocking the Clinton's on this past week's "Saturday Night Live."

I'm not a Hillary supporter but I thought it was an inappropriate move by Obama to do the show. He's becoming less squeaky clean and a little more cutthroat lately isn't he?

At the end of the day this is America,where anyone is supposed to be able to run for president. Guess not.

And as for Colbert's making a mockery of the political process and the presidential race, it's been a mockery for quite some time now.

Also quit bashing CNN, saying they spin their coverage. If you haven't noticed every news organization does. Thats where the money is. If you want honest balanced news maybe you should tune into Steven Colbert or Jon Stewart's programs

Wow you are all really pathetic for believing this article. Yes it is pathetic that people would vote him off the ballot, but really. Do you really think the Obama campaign would truely care? I agree that it is a shame that he could not run as a REPUBLICAN because he, who has a successful TV program, could not AFFORD to. What a shame that CNN would run a story like this. It is a shame that the American people can not see past their own noses, and get over the fact that this is the media talking. They are trying to make a story out of nothing as usual. Why not be asking why Clinton does not want things released from when she was first lady?????

These are such SERIOUS times that it is no longer remotely amusing to make a comic sport out of our democratic voting privilege … and, oh what a surprise, that the billary team figures in the background of this story – the 2 people that have taken triangulation to a refined, exponentially cubed art form like "hexagulation." Colbert, we soooooo love you, but I'm sure you got the WHOLE picture by now. Thanks for the truthiness.

Funny thing –every time I see someone say "This election is no laughing matter" I agree. Then I look at our frontrunners in the Democratic and Republican campaigns (at least the ones CNN says are the frontrunners) and I realize that electing them would be more comical and sad than than electing Colbert. The same tired people with the same tired rhetoric, with the same tendency to disregard voters and do whatever the heck they/Congress-critters/special interests want.

I think if a comedian got on the ballot and actually got enough votes to make Democrats and Republicans nervous, it would make this election a WHOLE LOT MORE SERIOUS than it is now.

Are you all stupid or something?
Why is this even a topic of discussion? Have we become that dumb?

Colbert is not even a real candidate. He's making fun of the process. He should keep that on TV, not when it can affect outcomes of elections.

Why keeo Colbert off the ballot let the guy have his fun. If anything it helps obama more than it hurts him. But personaly as a republican I live to see Democrats squirm.

this gives me enough reason to vote against obama

Rational, thinking Americans will be insulted by this 'news' and this feigned outrage in these posts by paid Clinton staffers.

Obama 08

Are you people that stupid? No one who works for the campaign had anything to do with this, TWO people independent of the campaign felt it was there duty to go do this. hey CNN maybe you should try to change the headline on the front page and maybe you guys posting comments should read the whole story.

Screw you, Barak.

One of the cornerstones of this country is that ANYone can run for President...even a television or movie personality.

CNN, C'monnnnnnnn!!!

I highly doubt Obama and his campaign staff blocked Colbert from being on the ballot. Seriously, learn how to make unbiased titles.

On a positive note, Hillary is digging a bigger hole for herself, and I cannot wait until she falls into it.

Obama '08!

Dont buy into this "Obama did it" crap. This smacks of Republi-con media manipulation.

Besides, this was a one note Joke anyway, if anyone really were looking forward to voting for him, maybe you really shouldn't be voting at all.

Mr. Obama, every single day, we can see you desperation mounting to ratchet up votes. I read your book, was pretty inspired but from Tuesday's debate, you stopped just 0.1 inch less of personal attack on Hillary. Even when you were asked questions on your policies, etc, you immediately turned your blunted swords to Hillary. And your criticism on her vote on Iran, if it was that important to you, may be should have been there to vote. So by all means, you have no right to criticize her on that, because you can't even handle the political office that you are elected to right now, how can we trust you on being our President. Seems like you will do whatever to get presidency. Why don't you wait 8 years, get some good experience-real experience, some public speaking skills and the ability to win on your own merit instead of bringing other people down and then run, I will definitely support you. Another thing, please practice what you preach-in your book and in your speeches. May be people will trust you more like that.

Somebody please explain to me how Obama is better qualified to be president than Colbert. As far as I can see, Obama's main achievement was giving a good speech at the Democratic Convention. Colbert, in his subtle way, has been a more effective critic of the Bush Administration.

In my opinion, neither of them or Hillary, the lady without principles, should be president.

"Obama team helps kill Colbert campaign"

- CNN, you've got to be kidding me! Look it how you manipulate words to make it seem like Obama's campaign had something to do with this...starting get a bit more like Fox News almost daily.

btw - some people do take politics serious enough to have "actual" candidates run.

Give me a break!

If anyone who thinks Colbert was serious about this thing is pretty "thick."

I'm sure the Hillary people pulled few strings to push the herds at CNN to publish such a trivial story.

CNN=CLINTON NEWS NETWORK

"...the South Carolina Democratic Party executive council voted 13-3 to block his bid, with the majority of voters saying he was not a viable enough candidate..."
Based on this reasoning, several other candidates should also be removed.
The election process IS A MOCKERY! Colbert's prank was a bit of advertising of this unfortunate truth. The status quo continues.

clinton news network at its best

Obama defeated an incumbent in his first Illinois race by successfully keeping her off the ballot.

I think most of you are mistaken. No one is saying he can't run for President, just that he can't run as a Democrat. Let him put his name in the hat as an independent. The main isue is that the Democrat party would have to pay out 20 grand just to stick his name on the ballot. If everyone wants him running so bad you should of sent him donations to run for the GOP.

it shows how truly desperate "the obamas" really are. maybe they should be.

Afraid of a little competition? hmm? It's really sad where this country has come to... I thought anyone was supposed to be able to run for president so long as he/she was born in the US and 35.

I do not believe everyone in South Carolina realizes the power of Stephen Colbert. As unknown as he is to older Americans, I would say that 90% of people ages 21-30 know who he is. Believe it or not, Colbert could have brought new life and genuine interest to the Presidential election. Now what drive do those Colbert followers have to vote besides to write him in? I wouldn't be surprised if he has 1-2% of votes by write-in alone!

This is outrageous. Who is Obama to stop anyone from running for President? I guess he's another liar too!

Politics as usual: If you're not a lackey of the Republicans or a tool of the Democrats, then you must be expunged, destroyed, ignored, debased or mocked. I'm so sick of our alleged two-party system, as it's nothing better than two squabbling children. Colbert had no chance of winning anything, but it would have been great to finally see a candidate with a real, live, FUNCTIONING brain!

Obama was just afraid that he would lose in the grit-off he challenged Colbert to.
And what is this talk that Colbert would "steal" votes from some people. My vote is my vote and it will go to whomever I want. That is the same stupid argument that they use to hold down any third party candidates. God forbid that a non-multimillionaire lawyer ever run for president.

Bad move... how many young voters that watch Colbert and Jon Stewart won't vote for Obama now?

Absolutely ridiculous. Once again the rich, stuck up baby boomers are keeping another American down. I can only imagine what they could do to the middle class American citizen. I bet the average middle wage doesn't meet the high credentials of the "executive" council.

Colbert could have *bought* his way into the Republican primary (his "true" party!) – but he didn't. At least the Dems seem to place less emphasis on money power.
If Colbert did participate in the Democratic primary, I can see the GOP slogans – "Dems make a mockery of the election process!"
Anyway, Colbert can always run as an Independent!!

These are such SERIOUS times that it is no longer remotely amusing to make a comic sport out of our democratic voting privilege ... and, oh what a surprise, that the billary team figures in the background of this story – the 2 people that have taken triangulation to a refined, exponentially cubed art form like "hexagulation." Colbert, we soooooo love you, but I'm sure you got the WHOLE picture by now. Thanks for the truthiness.

In a time where the choice for president seems to be the lesser of two evils it would have been nice to give people the option of showing their displeasure by voting for Colbert rather than not voting at all!

i'm not surprised his team was behind it, considering this article is completely right in saying that Colbert would have stolen Obama's constituency right out from under him. This move was pretty underhanded from someone advocating "transparent" politics.

Let people run if they want to run! How desperate can Obama get?

First of all, Colbert didn't meet the standards required for a candidate; he didn't have any intention of running for President; by running in only one state, there is no way he could be considered a serious candidate, which doesn't meet the standards to be accepted. Seems the committee agreed on that.

Second of all, HE'S A COMEDIAN!!!! Don't you people get it? This is a joke on America, and FOR Americans. The fact that CNN picked this up is also a joke (tho of a different sort).

Third, he can still run, as an Independent, Green Party candidate, or completely un-sponsored by any party. He doesn't want to be President...(get it yet? this is ONE STATE!)

Fourth, (before I move on to some REAL news) is anyone upset that he couldn't even get the money to run for his rightful party, the Republican ticket? We all known Colbert's on air persona is a Republican; and it cost TOO MUCH for him to even get on the ballot. Where is your outrage over THAT????? Colbert can't afford to run to be President in the party in which he politically belongs. 35k to get on the ballot in ONE STATE. If you want to get outraged (and believe me there are plenty of REAL things to be outraged over) get outraged over the fact that the REPUBLICANS DON'T WANT ANY POOR OR MIDDLE CLASS CITIZENS RUNNING FOR PRESIDENT.

If Colbert were serious, he would run as an independent. But that would cut against the progressive agenda of getting Hillary elected because Colbert would draw to many mindless dem voters away from Hillary in a National election.

There are no reruns as President when your puppet masters writting the scripts go on strike..

Granted, Colbert is probably no more a "viable candidate" than Pat Paulson was back in the 1970's. But when did we enact this "viable candidate" rule in order to get on a ballot?

I really hope that CNN isn't pinning the actions of one Obama supporter on the entire campaign. The Ticker headline implies that Obama's campain had a role in blocking Colbert, while the story suggests it was just someone who happened to be a supporter of his.

Colbert was only running in one state, and that to me at least doesn't make a very viable candidate. He was running to make a mockery of the election process and to increase his ratings, nothing more. I'm glad he was not allowed on the ballot.

Anyone CAN become president, if they actually have the intention to hold the office.

It's situations like this that make candidates look bad, whether or not the two were staffers of Obama's, Obama has not stepped forward to say anything about it. I would never vote for Hillary so Obama was the best decision... now I'm unsure of that...

The Democratic Party as a whole fought to keep Ralph Nader off the ballot in 2004.

What the heck is this. If this is true print the proof. This is a manufactured story until I see it. Is CNN in the business of lying to the American people? If this turns out to be untrue CNN runs the risk of seeing a massive boycott coming.

Yet another sneaky move by Obama where his excuse is that he wasn't aware and it was staffers/supporters acting alone.

This has nothing to do with Hillary, Sean. Obama was simply scared that Colbert might drain more votes from him than he picked up by pandering to ultra-religious homophobes.

NOW, I get it.

CNN is puts out these stories to test just how stupid people are so they will know how to spin their future coverage of the election. Now I get it.

Senator Obama's volunteers obviously don't have an ounce of humor in their bodies. What a sad state this country has come to when a politician's supporters are afraid of a comedian.

Isnt it amazing that barack of all people wants everything to be exclusive now. what about politics of hope, I guess that is only for people who look like you, mr obama.

Any citizen should be able to run for president, but if that citizen is not even serious about his/her candidacy, then they should be denied. Colbert said it himself, that he didn't want to be president, he wanted to 'run for president.' If he would just step out of character and run as the real person, then I wouldn't mind hearing him out. But this is the presidency, and we can't afford another mistake like Bush.

Shame on you CNN for having the headline on your main page that you do for this story. It is clear that the two people of note are supporters, NOT members of the Obama campaign. This is ridiculous. Please get out of Hillary's pocket for just a minute and correct the error.

This is yet another example of the black man keeping the white man down!

You know your campaign is over when you have to take Colbert as a serious threat. Time to go home Barack.

This is why young people are so disillusioned with politics. It's no secret that Republicans are out of touch with society, but it becomes clearer and clearer every day that Democrats aren't much closer.

Obama just lost any chance he may have had of landing my vote.

"Obama might potentially lose some votes"...so we won't allow another candidate on the ballot? I'm not even from the US, but that seems incredibly ridiculous. There are other candidates that might take votes from Obama as well, should we make some calls and get them off the ballot so he wins by default?

The headline "Obama team helps kill Colbert campaign" on your front page is extremely disingenous. It doesn't make any sense to immediately give the Obama "team" responsibility for all of its supporters actions. If they are actually part of Obama's campaign staff, then say so in your article, if they are not don't insinuate that they are by posting bogus headlines.

Obama denied again, he always denied when he has troubles. Mr. Hamby told us who called but Obama still denied. Obama and his team are liars and do anything for their benefits. People are smarter than Obama and his supporters, he will be sorry soon.

If Colbert meets the requirements set by the Constitution how can this be blocked. Isn't that in itself Unconstitutional? I think OBAMA needs a lesson in Government 101 as well as protocol lessons on putting your hand over your heart during the Pledge of Allegiance and the National Anthem.

Sean, exactly. These people were endorsers, not official members of the campaign, and it is extremely unfair for CNN to couch this story in this way. Most aren't going to read the entire article so they are going to miss the important point that these aren't members of the Obama campaign. Ridiculous.

Wow... is CNN trying to kill the Obama campaign??? Why bothe mentioning Obama in this section. It was his supporters, not him that blocked Colbert. This could really hurt Obama if Colbert's supporters decide to not support Obama now.

No surprise here. Obama has helped take out the only Democratic hopeful I would vote for. At least Steven Colbert says the Pledge of Allegiance unlike Mr. Obama.

What is Obama afraid of?

First of all, anyone can run for President. That doesn't mean that anyone can get on a particular party's ballot in a particular state.

Second, as much as I love Colbert, I understand why Obama supporters would be concerned. South Carolina is a key state that Obama will need in order to secure the nomination, and part of his main source of votes is among college students and young people, who also love Stephen Colbert.

Also, it doesn't appear that this was a campaign decision.

The headline is totally misleading. According to the story, it was not Obama and his campaign who were responsible for keeping Colbert off the ballot, it was two "prominent supporters" who volunteer for Obama. Nice attempt to smear Obama as humorless.

Darn, I was SO looking forward to the freshness that Colbert would inject in to the campaign! Remember, we can still write his name in on the big day no matter what state we are in.

I thought anyone could run for President? I guess not.

I for one am definately not going to vote for Obama after seeing him, at a recent, event not place his hands over his heart during a national anthem and not recite the Pledge of Allegiance. I could have cared less about wearing a lapel pin, but those offenses can't go unnoticed especially if he wants to be our President and Commander in Chief of the Armed Forces. Other wise he would lose all respect of the Armed Service Members just as the Clintons did. But, it's obvious that didn't bother them.

Wooow CNN,
Your futile attempts to KILL the stories about Hillary's messed up week of flip-flopping will not succeed by focussing on Obama

If you had asked me six months ago to list the ten most important qualities in a U.S. President, "sense of humor" would not have made the list. Now, though, I'm starting to think it should place in the top three.

Looking beyond the fact that the head of public education in the State of South Carolina is out campaigning for a presidential candidate, this story emphasizes the fact that Barack Obama, his campaign, and his supporters take themselves too darn seriously. The difference between Obama's reaction to the Colbert campaign and Edwards' reaction is striking.

It is a joke to kick Stephen Colbert off the ballot because he is not "viable enough." Half the candidates aren't viable. That doesn't mean we should stop listening to what they have to say. And last I checked Obama didn't look as viable as as some of the other candidates.

Keep in mind the Republicans did not even give him a chance, at least the Dems let him get this far.

Anybody can run for president, as long as you have enough money...

Colbert Nation needs to stand up and not take this garbage. Colbert/Stewart 08. Lets get some real people in the White House, even actors are more real than any canidate these days.

While I too feel that ALL American's should have the right to be president, one has to consider that being the President of the United States is not a big fat joke (sorta what it is like now with Bush).

I've seen Colbert on both Larry King and this weekend on Tim Russert's show, and unfortunately Colbert could not break out of costume for one minute to answer a serious question. Don't get me wrong...when I stay up late enough I do catch his show as he is funny as hell. BUT – do I think he ever had a chance to be president...NO!!

Maybe to some $20,000 just to stick a person on a political ballot is no big deal. BUT...think about how much food $20,000 could buy for homeless shelters or another worthy cause. I think the State of South Carolina made a good call.

Oh – and I totally agree that this whole article is skewed – none of the people who voted were offical Obama staff members. I guess everyone is trying to find SOMETHING wrong with Obama...what is everyone afraid of – that he could actually win and be a great president?

Anyone can run as long as you are "viable" meaning you are part of the in crowd approved by the mythical councils.
Once again, decisions made by a few determine the outcome for the masses.
Can you imagine the debate, it would have been the best ever. They were scared!

Wag of the Finger to the South Carolina Democratic Party executive council.

What were they afraid of? Did they think Colbert would actually pose a threat to one of the other candidates?

Colbert should file to run as an independent in November, just to tick them off!

Stephen Colbert for President!

So, I have the same problem with Colbert not being allowed to be on the ballot as I do with 4-H being forced by American Indians to remove tribal names and activities from the annual camp bonfire. God forbid American kids should be made curious about and learn a bit about American Indian tribes through participation in 4-H. God forbid a well known comedian should draw attention to the most important political campaign in this country. Colbert's antics capture people's attention who might not otherwise be paying attention. I applaud him. I think SC and the Obama campaign are ridiculous for making an issue of it and not allowing him on the ballot. If 100 more Americans tuned in to debats as a result, he would have accomplished something. But, then this is the state where Greenville County passed an anti gay resolution and where women are forced to take a course in how to be subservient to their husbands at Bob Jones University. Nothing surprises me.

How scary that about a dozen people can keep someone off a ballot. What country is this again? SC State Dem Executive Council – you're ON NOTICE!

Well, it's a lucky break for Colbert, who's just been knocked off the air by the tv writers' strike. He'd have been in reruns today anyway.

Not a viable enough candidate? But all the other Dems are extremely "viable"...Ridiculous.

Anyone who is eligible can run for president. You may still write in Colbert, and he could still run as an independent if he chose.

The democrats have simply decided to not officially list his name as a democratic candidate on the ballot. I am willing to bet that Colbert will still get at least 1% of the write-in vote – though I wouldn't expect much more.

If this is true, then Obama just lost my vote.

"Official staffers"? "Volunteers"? The State Superintendent of Education and a State Representative make personal calls to the committee in charge and you [Sean, Los Banos California] actually think they're not "connected" to the Obama campaign??! Wow. How's that whole "head-in-the-sand" thing workin' out for ya?

Its interesting how the Clinton News Network framed this to make it sound as if Obama actually had anything to do with it. The headline could easily have been "Clinton supporter files to have Colbert on the ballot" this sounds like an attempt by the Clinton machine to use Colbert to dilute and split the youth and young adults' votes from Obama.

I hardly think that Obama supporters have this kind of clout..or else he'd be 20 points ahead in SC polls..

This is another tactic by the Clinton machine, aided and abetted by the CNN and the other MSM outlets to denigrate the best politician our country has seen since RFK running for president.

The American people see this and in January, the MSM will too.

This doesn’t have anything to do with who can run for president. He was trying to get on the Democratic and Republican ticket. He can still run as an independent if he desires.

http://www.wittybanter.wordpress.com

Does the Obama campaign not realize that Colbert could destroy his campaign just as easily?

This is America, he met the requirements as outlined in the Constitution to be President. He registered to be on the ballot. No where in the American Constitution does it say a bunch of never bes can decide who can and can not run.

Write Colbert in, make Obama's day.

I know if my legislature here in Kansas would give the people of Kansas a voice by holding a primary, I sure as heck would.

"It is a time for change!" Hasn't this been the mantra for the Dems? What is changing? I think B.O. was afraid that Colbert would do better on the primary ballot than he did on SNL.

The argument that Colbert would have made a mockery of the political process is unfair. The rest of the candidates are already doing it as well as he could!

This is just another example of the politico-industrial complex squashing the fervent aspirations of the comedic-light industrial complex. It's a battle of the jokes. The Presidential campaigns need to protect their high-stakes joke on the American Public, so like any good business, they kill competition, or buy it out.

I think CNN has an agenda against the Obama. I mean if you are campaigning for Hillary just come out in the open instead of resorting to such tactics aimed at casting the Obama campaign as playing dirty politics. Good journalism comes with some responsibility. I don't know why CNN hates Obama so much!

Whether these people are Obama staffers or not makes little difference. His campaign just lost another vote.

The article says "prominent supporters" of Obama did the dirty work. If other Obama supporters think that sounds too much like Obama STAFFERS did the work, then what does THAT tell you. I think the nation has had enough of "Oh WE didn't do it, some unrelated party did it!" from the current administration (Swiftboat = Exhibit A).

I'm a big fan of Colbert. He's a sharp-witted entertainer and I rarely miss a show. His campaign is all in fun and should not be taken seriously though. I sure Colbert would be the first to agree, the last thing Americans need is another joke in office.

I was inclined to support Obama, now I'm disinclined. I hope he loses more votes countrywide then he would have lost in South Carolina

This is not Obama's campaign, this is two prominent people in South Carolina that happen to be supporters of Obama.

Thanks again media.

Wow, won't be voting for Obama....

Let's be clear though – If Colbert was serious, he could run as an independent. What was being denied was not his ability to run for president, but to run for the democratic nomination. Considering that Colbert does not have longstanding ties with the democratic party, this result was highly predictable. The fact that Colbert declined to run as an independent demonstrates his lack of serious presidential aspirations, making the SDC part exec verdict, in terms of their interests, a good decision.

Simply amazing, there were sixteen amature comedians that were successful in keeping a true American professional comedian off the ballot, and the best one of the bunchat that.

Those who have a problem with Colbert's quick demise as a Presidential Candidate must be seriously lacking in American Pride.

Maybe a course in 101 Reality may help these people see the total disrespect for the Constitution this man holds.

His inane claim for power and wanton lack of respect has served only in further eroding the American image around the world.

Was this a slow news day? Who gives a darn? Being president is not a joke. Especially right now.
These people are not staffers. So quit with the slamming of this man. He had nothing to do with it.

This just goes to show you how low these Democrats will stoop to keep a good Jesus loving man who thinks with his gut out of their party! Why are they too cowardly to let him in? Do they really hate America this much?

Its not just Obama's people that are at fault for calling for a crucifixion of values that reminds me of the freeing of Barabas, but the entire Democratic party! FOR SHAME!

One of the primary reasons they did not want a person like Colbert to run for president is, while they knew he wasn't a serious candidate who wasn't going to win, what he was doing for the short while he was in the process was shining a huge light on a clearly not-too-very transparent process. His attempt showed that the idea that "anyone can grow up to be president" is a myth and that those "not in the club" will barely be able to make it past the front door of either party.

Additionally, when was it public knowledge that it cost $2,500 to register to run as a Democrat and $35,000 to run as a Republican. Also, because of his starting the filing/funding process we can see how presidents are really chosen before they are elected, by board and committee. We are also shown how big business meets election funding through individuals contributing via networking in their corporations instead of the corporation itself contributing.

This, combined w/the thunder he'd be stealing from the other Dem. candidates is why they 86'ed him outright. The bottom line is that he was putting too much light on the elite selectivity and bureaucracy of the process.

Strike one for America on this...

Are all the other commenters kidding? People got the joke, but that is not the point. Some people are taking the joke too far and imagining funny speeches and the like while not thinking what could happen in the primaries. Colbert was never going to win and was only running in one state anyway. Momentum is key in primary elections. With South Carolina being an early primary state Obama could have key votes taken away which would give the primary to someone else. The other person would have the momentum and could take other states and win the nomination. What if, please consider, the person that does take the nomination isn't as viable a candidate for the Dems and ends up losing the general election!?

I realize this is a lot of this are what ifs, by why take the chance? Are young, educated Dems willing to risk four more years of Republicans for a laugh? Let's just think before acting.

Inez Tenenbaum was a complete boob when working for Richland schools. She is a great argument for the privatization of the public schools.

At least the fiction that the American people decide who is a viable candidate has been laid to rest.

Yep, Obama just lost my vote.

I thought anyone I America could run for president? They just don't want college student's to vote for him because they need those votes..I'm not voting anymore

Good! We already have a joker and a fool running the country into the ground. Why wasn't he trying to get on the Republican ballot? He could easily beat those clowns.

For the record not everyone can be president. There are rules, and apparently Chris from Atlanta doesn't know this. Which leads me to think he/she doesn't know how the political process works. Like the pathetic, dirty, juvenile tricks that are pulled by each and every campaign. Welcome to the REAL WORLD.

This is where you are wrong. Only the rich and powerful can run the country. All other minions just follow.

I could be wrong but anyone can run for president, assuming they are American born and over 35. Colbert can still run, just not on the Democratic ticket.

I didn't see the humor of Colbert's candidacy. It was never a matter of the right to run for office as much as it was self-promotion by a TV personality. And, as the experts say, TV is the wasteland that attracts 14-year old mentalities, so we all know where Colbert's "campaign" was going. These are serious times, and Colbert had absolutely nothing to offer, not even good humor.

Yet more confirmation that Obama is a sleazy operator, just like most of the other candidates. He scr-wed over the guy who set up a MySpace site for him, and now he's scr-wing Steven Colbert and the people who wanted to vote for him.

Neither he nor Hillary will ever get my vote.

I thought This was America people. What ever happen to any one
(Black,White,Hispanic,Doctor,Lawyer,George Bush) can become president.
Either Colbert's rights were trampled on or I have been lied to all my life.

Are you KIDDING? This is just another CNN ridiculous spin. An Obama SUPPORTER (of which there are hundreds of thousands of us) was just following the rules for filing to run for president and said so. Period.
I can't believe you've wasted space to write such pointless article; I can't believe I took time to read it, and I can't believe anyone would actually think that Barack would have any motive to do this.

Just another Clinton News Network desperate attempt to make up negativity where there is none concerning her number one major threat.

Thank you, Rep. Sellers, for being another politician that wants to smooth things over for us poor dolt Americans. "Another Obama endorser who regularly appears at campaign events, state Rep. Bakari Sellers, also made phone calls to members of the party's executive council about Colbert, according to Sellers.

"I placed the calls as a concerned Democrat, realizing that we are a country in despair," Sellers told CNN. "It is not a time for games or to make a mockery of the process." . Well, well, well... just when you think a candidate might allow an American to actually think for themselves. SORRY it might take a few votes away from YOUR candidate- some of us in this country, SICK with politics as usual, enjoyed Mr. Colbert's run. Shame on you for considering yourself a "decider" for everyone else. Schmuck.

A candidate running FROM a comedian. It's a joke ....right?

LOL Do any of you people see Colbert was ONLY running in SC. EVEN if he won SC he still had 0 chance in becoming the Prez. BECAUSE HE WAS NOT RUNNING IN ANY OTHER STATE! Colbert was just waiting time and money. When will America stop reacting through emotion and irrationality and start reacting with logic and rationality?

I for one would be interested in knowing why the Republicans and possibly the Democrats would go beyond and above their call of duty to intentionally cause havoc on voters lives. This is truly unbelievable and I can see no possible exlanation for this.

I agree with Chris from Atlanta. I thought we (the voters) could write in the name of our candidate anyway. Guess who I'll STILL be voting for. I deserve to make my own choice.

I was a little dismayed when Obama started attacking Ms.Clinton but this
Colbert business makes him look desperate.It was a joke. I think they would have done much better to play along.It was only one state.But it is important to see how people react situations like this and Obama is probably losing voters rather than gaining support. I know he lost me.

Way to go OBAMA crew... When idiots like Colbert disrespect the process and make fun of it they should be refused. I never really liked Colbert and now I will stop watching his how.

OBAMA has my vote !!!

Haha, what a joke. It's sad when you're that worried of your presidential bid that you can't have Colbert on the ticket. Plus, Colbert defintely would have beat him.

The real joke is that if he was allowed to run, Colbert would win.
I'll write him in.

Does anyone know what the word satire means? Colbert planned his "rejection" to coincide with the writers' strike. All of this ties in to publicity for his book.

This story is horribly misleading. Did the Clinton campaign send it out to everyone?

Two people who -support- Obama were calling them. Not two people who -work- for Obama. Are the candidates supposed to send out letters to their supporters with a list of all foreseeable stupid actions of what NOT to do?

Once again it goes to show that no matter who you are , you cannot even get on the ballot unless you have BOAT LOADS of MONEY. Freedom isn't free... You got to have the Benjamins or you are just another peasant. Looks like Colbert is still a peasant too.

I guess there is only room for one joke candidate on the ballot, and Obama is just protecting his territory.

One more example that Barack Obama isn't what he portends to be. He is one more hungry, desperate, win-at-all costs politicians.

TO: Chris, Atlanta Georgia

Trust me, if that all it takes for you not to vote for Obama, it's safe to say that either you weren't going to vote for him anyway or you the most fickle voter in history.

I am glad that Colbert was stopped. He was making a joke of the political system by offering to run on both ballots.

The oppressed are now oppressing interesting.

WHY is everyone taking this so seriously? I think he is just a viable candidate as Ross Perot was and HE got on the ballot.

This is a well known Obama tactic. He has kicked other candidates off the ballot before. He did it in Chicago by challenging signatures.

The "nice guy" stuff is so very false. Obama is the most cut-throat and scary politician of them all.

I guess the Democratic Party is not "all inclusive" like they say they are. It would be refreshing to have a working class guy running this country instead of a bunch of dimwits born with silver spoons in theirs mouths telling us they know how to help us. In reality are we a democracy when the political elite pick who were allowed to vote for. Kind of sounds like Communist Russia or China. Way to go Obama.

I'm agree with everyone in this, I really hoped that Colbert could have been on the ballot and WON, that way it shows all those politicians, that anyone can play by their games. We, the people, who are indeed smarter, choose not to.

Trying to keep competitors off the ballot is becoming a Democratic tradition. The Democratic Party filed multiple lawsuits to keep Ralph Nader off the ballot. The suits had no legal merit, but Nader's tiny organization had to use its resources to respond to lawsuits in a dozen states. This is shameful. The state of South Carolina and Obama engaged in shameful behavior.

If the voters don't want Colbert, they can reject him at the ballot box. It is not up to a committee of political hacks to decide who we can vote for.

Just another reason I'm Over Obama

How insecure does one's supporters have to be to feel threatened by Stephen Colbert's demographic? Sheesh, have a little confidence in your candidate, people, a take a chill pill.

Obama is simply showing that he is just like the rest.

An individual with no real experience who simply has and will do the same, suck off the taxpayer and business as usual.

Obama is simply afraid of Colbert as there would be someone who actually answers questions AND has a personality.

You'd thnk it is a free country. What a shame!!!!

What a nation we live in... our representatives vote to remove VIABLE candidate Colbert off of the ballets, but we have Bush re-elected. I thought this country was a democracy, run by the people? No one ever asked me my opinion, or my neighbor's opinion, or probably yours either, reader. I want to vote for my OWN choice of candidate. I do not want my options filtered by some committee of whom I know nothing about.

I think what we need for a president is simply a positive diplomat for our great nation. With Bush in office, we have severed so many ties with the rest of the world. Pick up a newspaper in almost any major city; you’ll see that a majority of the world has negative feelings toward us. It didn’t used to be like this. We used to be admired… almost feared because we were so powerful. Now we’re the jerk that stays around at the party that ended hours ago. I think you understand what I’m saying.

Although it is the President that ultimately has the final say on almost all domestic and world issues, he is surrounded by a team of the most talented individuals in the world. They do all the research, the development, the planning, the forecasting, and the execution. The President simply gets the credit, whether it is successful or not.

My point is; I would be much more comfortable with a person like Colbert to address our nation’s world interests than I would anyone else right now. Everyone else is too abrasive, too unlikable, and too unviable. And let’s get serious; by the time he’s elected, Bush will have been running this country for 8 years. Can it really get any worse?

Unfortunately, though I like Colbert, the notion that änyone can become president" is irrelevant to this situation, and those who repeat that myth are missing the point here entirely.

They seem to forget that Colbert's "candidacy" was merely a joke. After the last two presidential election cycles, when the slimmest margin of votes made an international impact, you would think people would understand that we cannot play around with something this serious.

I agree that Colbert might make an interesting president, but perhaps he should have chosen a primary that occurs later in the season, once the primaries become merely academic.

Obama and his campaign should be embarassed that he had his goons pressure officials to remove Colbert from the SC ballot. I thought this was a country where anyone can be president. Are comedians excluded? Come to NH. We'll let anyone run. Live Free or Die!

I will say that I don't hold this against Obama. I hold it against the system. I wouldn't vote for Colbert, but it's simply disheartening to know that we fight wars to instill democracy in other countries, when we ourselves are in fact not a democracy. Colbert didn't win, I doubt he ever intended to, but he did prove a point, and I respect it.

Obama will absolutely not get my vote in the GA primary nor the general election.

This country has had a tradition of political satire from before the revolution. I remember Pat Paulsen'n presidential bids, and that nobody seemed too frightened. Why is it that suddenly having a mirror held up to our process is something to be squashed like a bug? I hope that people who are dissatified will consider a write-in, if not for Colbert, then maybe for "none of the above".

Isn't that a mob (see: Family) tactic? Pressuring to get what you want...

Another attack on competing candidates in the twig that ones was a towering redwood.

Anyone CAN run for president. This was a joke. Read the whole article. Find the Tim Russert interviews. Colbert even said, during the second interview, that he is a Democrat when not "playing the role" of his Conservative pundit show of awesome irony. He doesn't support gay marriage because such a ceremony only exists so heterosexuals can rub it in the face of gays and lesbians. Why else would someone get married unless they can taunt with jest a limited privilege?Please lighten up people. I really hope the citizens of my country are more awaringly capable than all these blogs I yes, sometimes get angry over. But I'm improving, aren't I? If you're actually interested in politics at all, and have been following any of this, especially the debates, then you would know Colbert, as an incredibly smart comic, is not Robin Williams from "Man of the Year". He only wanted to run in South Carolina as its "Native Son" because little by little the code is being explained.

Obviously, if you can't pass muster with "the right people," you can't run for President, and you certainly will never be President. People in this country had better wake up to the unhappy fact that the most powerful leaders of this country are bought and sold. Plain and simple. No wonder our Republic is going to hell in a hand basket.

Obama must come out publicly and denounce this action or he has lost any chance to lure my vote... Nation we have been insulted.

What a win for Democracy Obama, the same Democracy that allows you to run in the primary. When the term "viable candidate" is a matter of subjective "opinion" we no longer live in a true democracy. Are they going to give his money back? Doubt it. I'm a Dem and I wouldn't have voted for Colbert but this is complete bull. A shame and a sham.

Yeah, and I bet the Republicans are behind this whole Colbert scam just to cause trouble and get the American voters angry. This whole country is a mess! I am one angry voter!

"It is not a time for games or to make a mockery of the process."

I'm sorry, we've already made a mockery of democracy in 2000. Now is the perfect time to continue the mockery of our so-called election process by shining a light on just how messed up our system is. Write him in.

One of the most interesting things to me about the whole situation is that Steven Colbert is making less of a mockery of the democratic process than the "real" candidates. The current candidates only want to perpetuate the rape of the American people to benefit themselves and their special interest groups and this goes for both sides of the aisle. Power and the seeking of power are the drugs that fuel the politician's addiction and like the addict they will say and/or do anything to get power and all at the expense of the American citizen. When are we going to see competent, honest people of integrity running for office? Steven Colbert is only holding the mirror in which the politicos see themselves.

Obama loses another voter. John Edwards gains another voter.

Any one should be allowed to run for president. And if you feel you are the right man for the job why should you care who else runs. Obama does not stand a chance in this election, He does not have experience lacks back bone to take own the tough issues facing our country. John Edwards will be the one for him to fear. John Edwards 08'

This better not be true, or Obama has lost my support. Obama had better go public with this. Are the Democrats that afraid of Stephen Colbert?

It just gors to show, no matter the candidate, dirty politics is a reality we all have to suffer.

This story is designed to look bad for Obama. The two people highlighted were not official members of his staff. Also, were these the only people that lobbied for their position? Or were they just the only ones mentioned?

Obama supporters are vicious.

So much for democracy, I too believed any US citizen who met the proper requirements could run.....why is Colbert not allowed to? Sounds like fixed votes.....

I agree with sean. If anyone wants an example of the bias in CNN, here it is. The framing of this story is ridiculous. The headline of the story is ridiculous. The bias is ridiculous.

What's Obama afraid of? That Colbert would get more laughs than he did on Saturday Night Live? Or is it that Colbert has more experience in standing up to Bush and his toadies?

Is it just me or is CNN leading a hatchet job against Obama. They have run more negative press against him in the past week than any other major network. 2 supporters were against Colbert being on the ballot. What about the other 11 who voted against...are we going to speculate on their reasons.

I like Colbert but votes for him would have likey come from folks likely to vote for Obama and I think deep down he truly wouldn't want that.

It would be a "2000 Election" situation all over again with him playing the role of Nader.

I'll continue to watch his show regardless (as soon as the writer's strike ends).

The article title "Obama team helps kill Colbert campaign" is obscenely misleading. For one, it wasn't the Obama team. The actual campaign had zero connection to this: it was an unpaid Obama supporter. Additionally, the term "kills" is far too strongly worded and infused with bias, something that any credible news source should shy away from if it hopes to maintain a modicum of credibility.

Also, the article doesn't reveal until after the cut that Tenenbaum disagrees with CNN's characterization of her placing pressure through these calls, something that the beginning of the article asserts as if it were 100% true.

Unacceptable!

Anyone who wishes to run for any office should be encouraged. Professional spinners, handlers and image managers shouldn't squelch anyone from participating.

Fresh ideas, multiple aspects and as many participants are what this country needs.

Who knows, perhaps a real leader with real leadership abilities might step forward!

Shame on Mr. Obama for allowing his cronies to stoop to this level.

I have lost any respect that I once had for Mr. Obama. He should personally contact the organizations that his henchmen pitched and do all that he can to reverse their decision.

As usual, it's all about the money. Hardly surprising. As noted, Colbert's candidacy probably would have drawn a younger demographic to the primary, and then quite possibly to the final election. Getting the younger people in this country involved in the process isn't worth $20 grand?

So is this the politics of hope? I'm not sure if we are a country in despair, but we do have real problems and we need real leaders with real vision. We don't need candidates whose surrogates waste their time and ours by focusing on trivia.

If Colbert wanted to run to make a point about the process, he should have been allowed to. If Obama's surrogates have nothing better to do than worry about Colbert, what in the world is he even doing in the race?! These are serious times and we need serious leaders with real vision. Get real, Obama!!!

I love Colbert, watch every night! However, this process is too important to be wrapped up in a comedy stunt. Yes, anyone can try to run for President. However, the Democratic Party is not obliged to support them.

Just the sort of soft-headed, humorless, self satisfied, weak brained part of the Democratic party that mirrors the Republicans. It shows me that, deep inside, politicians are really the same. They all want big corporate money, none of them want any real change. It's the Game. We are all the suckers.

I gotta say, I don't think Colbert made a mockery of the process anymore than it already is.

Oh THIS is going to play well on Colbert's show!

Seems that St. Obama is just as nasty and underhanded as any other campaign. And what was he afraid of? A COMEDIAN?

I wonder what OTHER surprises Obama will reveal? Allah hu Akbar!

Here I was with this illusion that anyone could try to run for President. How foolish am I?

I agree with Mr. Sellers, a mockery of the democratic process did occur, by his actions and those supporters of Obama. The whole election process is a joke. How many on the ballot are not really nationally viable either? You could argue they should not be allowed. Maybe Mr. Colbert being on the ballot and passing a number of the candidates in the vote would give these candidates a dose of reality and that none of them are really appealling to the masses and they have a very high arrogance of their own self worth. Obama's campaign made it sound like this is the "Mother" of all elections (ok, i'm getting sick of that phrase too). Well guess what, so have the last 5 or 6. They must have had some polling data and were really afraid that Colbert might actually do significant damage. Its just like how the Big players keep the Independents and small candidates out of the debates, so they never get a voice out. They are the ones that make a mockery of our election system (BOTH parties).

Taking Colbert off the ballot? Come on...he can do a lot better than the idiots that's running for President. I would love to watch his "State of the Union" address if he was elected. Our first Non-boring State of the Union that will leave us laughing! ELECT COLBERT!

WatchingHillary.com

It's ridiculous that the story is framed the way it is. Neither of these people are official staffers for Obama; the article headline makes it seem as if the campaign is in some way connected to these two volunteers in some official capacity.

Keep on perpetuating Hilary's perceived inevitability by the media! Yeah!

Anyone who had a problem with Colbert running needs to rethink the situation. He had no way of getting any votes so people actually lobbying for him to loose just really didn't get the joke.

If this is true I won't vote for Obama simply based on principle. It is horrible that Americans are told their entire lives that any citizen can become President.

Voters should decide who becomes President, not a committee of 16 people nobody has ever heard of.

Add "lacks a sense of humor" to the list of reasons why Obama cannot be elected.

This seems like another hit job on Obama by HRC people. They are a sleazy bunch who fabricate issues.

How is this news over Ron Pauls record setting day??? unbiased media??? right.

I'm disappointed over his decision to keep Colbert off the ballot. I wonder why. He's certainly no opposition. Indeed, he would be more help than hindrance.
Now, we know he won't be on the ballot. Alas, and alack! Comedians have always been at the forefront of political crisis. Government has removed high profile ones in the past – Smothers Brothers, Mort Sahl, Bill Maher, et al. Maybe, because we listen to them, pray tell I query?

And to think we live in a democracy...the democrats are just afraid to stand up for what they really believe in

I think it's funny that in an election where hundreds of millions of dollars are spent that Obama supporters claimed it wasn't fair that the state democratic party would have to pay $20,000 for Colbert's candidacy. Who's to say he wouldn't end up being a viable candidate this early in the race? Call it like it is – Obama's campaign was scared and so they pressured people.

Colbert was trying to make a mockery of OUR state's election to boost his TV show ratings. He hasn't lived here in ages and he's NOT a favored son!

You tell 'em Bama. Really Michelle should be running.

I believe CNN is the most biased modern press I have seen in my entire life (even worse than Fox). CNN is so Pro Clinton, it actually stinks. Any and every article on Obama has a negative spin and all Clinton's positive. Just look at the latest poll results – The link on the political ticker is "Clinton Support Slips" (which by the way is the only suggestion of anything negative on a list of 8 items), but it's directly linked to the main news that a year to go Clinton remians the woman to beat. There are no headline news that Clinton has dropped 7 points since the last poll and Obama's picked up 4, or that Obama's got more totally likely voters than Clinton, 52% to 51%.. I held both the US and CNN as examples to the world, especially coming from a third world country where the press is not very free, but this kind of journalism makes me very very cynical, and for an international media house like CNN to carry on like is just totally irresponsible.

In what dimension is this still news?

The executive council who requested anonymity should feel like an idiot to even think about putting a comedian on the ballet. Steve Colbert would have made a mockery of the democratic process in South Carolina.

I'm a supporter of Obama and I have said previously that Colbert should be allowed to run in SC. Whether or not Obama's people influenced the commission will not change my vote, I'm still voting for Obama. However, I think Colbert should have be allowed on the ballot, after all he was only running for one state. I live in Ohio and my vote would not affect Colbert's efforts for a delegate.

I'd say this sounds like someone's holding a grudge that Colbert managed to drum up more 18-34 support in a few weeks than Obama has managed all year.

While I didn't necessarily believe that Colbert would win South Carolina's primary, I did think just by having him run caused a lot of good debate- as well as point out some of the hypocrisies that have kept a lot of those younger key voters away from the voting booths.

It's silly to say the $20,000 dollar payment was the reason to keep him off- they could have easily found donors to cover the charge.

What does it say about a candidate when someone like Barrack Obama feels threatened by Stephen Colbert?

Shame on you, Obama. Popular support for Colbert's "campaign" is a reflection of the frustration mounting in the general public. We are tired of Democrats acting like Republicans. We are tired of a two-party dynamic in which there is no measurable, practical difference between regimes.

Instead of taking the mock presidential campaign as a personal affront, maybe someone should wake up and realize that if our elected representatives were doing a satisfactory job, guys like Colbert would have no audience. Colbert is not going to make our political institutions look an more ridiculous than a Congress that refuses to do anything, a president who openly mocks the traditions of representative government, or a judicial system that does nothing but preserve the existing power dynamic.

We are all tired of the b.s., Mr. Obama, but Colbert has nothing to do with it. Maybe you and your supporters should expend more energy backing up your tough talk in Congress instead of protecting the integrity of your collective ego.

Then only joke here is you.

Sen. Obama claims to be a candidate for "change" but squeezing someone from the race seems like business as usual, at least for Washington insiders. We all know that Stephen Colbert was not a real candidate, but denying him the right? Squeezing him from the race, pressuring officials to side one way or another – this is definately no change from what we are already seeming from the current Administration

I agree with Obama on this point. We can use all the satire and jokes we want, but the primaries are the Real Thing, not just for fun.

Seriousness about our votes is always important – and I hope they are all counted, too!

Who cares!??? Ron Paul is the NEWS NOW!
Move over Obama, Hillary, Romney, Fred, Guiliani, etc.... all cookie cut cookies of the Communist, Facist, Anti-Consititutional Government!!!

REMEMBER THE 5th of NOVEMBER!!

The sad thing is that Colbert isn't as funny as the rest of the clowns that both parties are putting forward. I think he should have tried to run as a Republican in the state because he always presents himself as one. It's obviously tongue-in-cheek, but he never "acts" Democratic.

Someone how this doesn't surprise me. Obama is proving that politics is politics regardless of what you say.

It looks like this was something engineered by Tenenbaum on her own. The Obama campaign was not involved.
Tenenbaum seemed to be threatened by Colbert's not serious candidacy. Which is sad. it was a fun thing and would have been great to see him in a debate.
Unfortunately this will also drag Obama into it as people will think he was behind this.
Sometimes supporters, the high profile ones with clout, can do alot of damage in their zeal.

Very suspicious actions on the part of the Democratic Party. I was under the assumption that a democracy stood for choice during elections. Yet it seems that members of the Democratic Party are actively pursuing to limit choice. How ironic: the Democratic Party against democratic choice.

Another non story...CNN...get a grip.
The author of this article took great pains to continuously refer to "Obams supporters"....but the Obama campaign was not involved in this "issue".

This is so lame, CNN.

Does this really matter? I mean both candidate's are complete jokes. I won't waste my vote on Obama or Colbert. And all those that do vote for Obama are no better than the 97,000 idiots in Florida 2000 that voted for Nader. Writing 2 self-aggrandizing books, skipping votes, and being a community organizer does not qualify you to be president. Is every boy scout leader out there qualified too?

Please don't vote for NObama. Nice guy, but he will lose it all for the dems. Plus, no one ever talks about how ineffective he wiould be as president with no allies in dc.

I like and admire Obama, but this is a bit hard to forgive. He must not know Stephen the way we fans do. Colbert may appear at first glance to be just a comedian, but he's much, much more than that.

Of course, Obama's minions torpedoed Colbert. Obama is so pathetically uncompetitive they had to remove the professional comedian because he'd embarrass him.

who cares. colbert has bigger things to worry about with this writers strike going on.

Heh, why would he do that?

Maybe because Colbert would have taken some of his voters:P Think about it, almost everyone who watches the daily show and the colbert report will vote for obama...unless colbert runs...

And with colbert registering 2.3% in the polls, he might have pulled a ralph nader on the democratic primary?

Who knows...

I think they had already done this long time ago....What again?

Wow, if Obama is worried about losing votes to Colbert then maybe he should give up now. Edwards had more to lose, being from SC, and he was having fun with the issue.

Certainly people will harp on about how Obama is trying to suppress competition in the Democratic primaries, but this election is really no time for screwing around with protest or comedic candidacies. We truly are on the verge of deciding which direction we are taking this country. We all might have different ideas what that should be, but votes shouldn't be wasted on a candidate who admits to not being serious (only wants to win S. Carolina).
I love Colbert, but the joke's over.