I am always taken aback by the patently racist, ignorant rants I see in the comments on some of the Ticker blogs. You can tell who the pinheads are from their functionally illiterate comments that make no sense and have no credence. Oooo…Oprah is racist because she's black and Obama's black. Oooo…Oprah should stick to TV because she doen't have the right to be political. And on and on and on. The fetid ignorance of some people in this country is sickening and we will not be rid of this scourge until they are dead and, hopefully, have not incuclated their children with their racist diatribes. I am quite sure that most of these cretins are going to vote for Mike Huckabeem who doesn't believe in evloution and believes that men and dinosaurs hung out together. I hope Huckabee gets the nomination because the Democrats will simply wipe him out. 70% of the people in this country totally reject these type of beliefs and thank God most people in this country believe that we are all equal and that race has nothing to do with anything. Experience? What experience did George Bush have? Governor of Texas? Don't make me laugh. He avoiding serving in Vietnam, bankrupted every company he was ever involved in and continued reading a children's book when he was informed that we were under attack. At least Obama doesn't pronounce nuclear, "noo-kee-ur."

CNN conducted a poll on their cite that indicated overwhelmingly
(95% to 5% at one time) that voters do not regard celebrities as a
deciding influence when voting. Of course, if this poll results is
indeed representative of the population at large, we must all agree that such a proposition is refreshing because to say otherwise is a
caustic affront to an individual's intelligence and the collective
intelligence of a nation. Why? If candidates believed with some
certainty that voters could be influenced by a celebrity, is it not
possible and wholly humiliating to think that Alvin the Chipmunk
could determine the next President. Frankly, I adore Alvin but his
judgment about the future of a nation is suspect. If you doubt the
psychological power over weak minds, then I remind you of Jimmy
Jones, Heavens Gate and David Koresh. Did not Bertrand Russell
say it best: "Most people would rather die than think and, in fact,
most do."

Obama is the man who will return this country to moral decency. We certainly need it. We have had enought "experience" the past 7 years and it has nearly destroyed this great country. And Oprah has the sense to realize that.

I am an Oprah fan, and I think she has an amazing ability to sway the American public. I think this Obama campaign is a gross abuse of the power she knows she has. If she can bring down the meat industry just by saying she doesn't like it, she just might have the ability to sway this election. The fact that she is supporting an inexperienced and unqualified candidate saddens me. She needs to leave politics to the people who know what they are talking about. She does some good things in the this world but if she convinces the country to elect this man… it could be devistating for the country and the world, which would single handededly undo all of the good she has ever done. I have take Oprah off my TiVo in protest.

Gotta love it… about 70% of the comments on here are negative in regards to Oprah… yes, she is popular with her audience and her television show… but there is a reason she has stayed out of politics and it showed on Saturday….and Obama…he speaks of experience but like others have pointed out, the facts are he is NOT doing his job as an elected official, and if he were, he would vote and try to make a difference with his vote… he has no courage to do that while in the Senate and the Illinois legislature, how is he going to have the courage (and "hope) as president? Bet there is no answer for this one out there by the Obama supporters….

I notice Republicans are posting on stories about Democratic candidates. They might just be rehearsing for their swift-boat attacks in the general election, but a kinder interpretation is that they are fed up with the sorry field of fatally flawed candidates they have to chose from. No matter who wins the Democratic nomination, he or she will be a better President than anyone the Republicans are offering.

Oprah said it best…"He speaks with the unvarnished tongue of truth." She simply puts into eloquent words what all us Obama supporters feel in our hearts.

BFF = Best Friend Forever…

"I don’t think they matter much at all (I remind you of Al Gore’s endorsement of Howard Dean)." In fact, Gore's endorsement of Dean was Dean's high water mark; his numbers started going down from that day. Iowans did not appreciate hearing from a failed candidate that the '04 caucus was unnecessary, that the candidate was already chosen. A truly fascinating moment.

Caucus success, especially for the democrats, is all about turn-out, which in turn is all about organization. This is a 100,000 to 200,000 person event. Oprah cannot contribute much more to that process than motivation and morale. But we sure liked having her visit.

We will be seeing more of Oprah "in the ring". Her "endorsement" of Obama is her foot on the first step of her own political ambitions. How much of the media does she control? How useful would that be for a would-be politician?
Last query: How different is she than Hillary in finding her way to "the ring" via a male candidate?

I wonder if Oprah knew that Obama's voting record as a US Senator was terrible…and when he was actually there, he voted for safety.."present but not YES or NO" that was his final answer. In addition, Obama's an attendant at Trinity Church of Christ which has a Black Value System…www.tucc.org. If Oprah and all of you Obama's supporters are aware of these facts and still believe that he should win the presidency…then I can only conclude that you all just want a BLACK president….NOT a GREAT president.

The double "oo" means "oops". Oprah is embarassing herself as is Obama.

J.McKinney SW MO, it is so true, Oprah can't help Obama, she just want black power. Bill Clinton is a great politician and President. Hillary is our hope and Country's hope too. The Clinton's know how to work on the problem, we need Hillary. I hope people vote the right candidate for our Country. White House is not for job training place.

Doesn't Oprah vote Republican? I mean when she does vote. I remember her giving Condi and Bush a platform on her show so they could promote the war with Irag. I remember her giving Bush a platform to get elected. She sure was useful getting that Democratic governor out of California. Hmmmm…that's interesting. Hasn't Obama repeatedly used right-winged talking points to attack his opponents? Regurgitating that social security was in a "crisis", right out of a Rovian playbook. (In fact, didn't Rove write some sort of memo, one that would help Obama in the primaries?) He does keep using Republican talking points on the universal health care issue as well(See Paul Krugman's new column in the NY
Times). Wait, wasn't Lieberman Obama's mentor? Didn't he stump for him and not Ned Lamont? I am beginning to see what kind of president Obama would be. He never did take a firm stand on issues of abortion. Could it be that he was pandering to a "certain group". Interesting how REPUBLICANS LOVE HIM and only attack Hillary. Now I understand what he means when he says "a new kind of politics".

I read in another post that FDR was one the most divisive and partisan presidents in recent memory. I remember a history professor of mine saying that he basically had to arm handle the Supreme Court be get plans such as welfare and social security passed, progressive issues that are essential to the Democratic party (Although I don't remember why the S.C. was involved).

That's what it takes to get things done. It takes someone who takes a stand and has a fundamental system of ideas, a firm grasp on their convictions, and knows what he or she is fighting for, to actually implement change. Fighting for simply just "change" is empty when you don't know in what direction you want to take that change. After watching this election cycle closely, I have become CONVINCED that Obama is running for president simply because he wants to be president, not because of any convictions. He does not firmly and feverishly believe in anything, he's said it himself, he's not an "ideologue". He never takes stands on important issues. He will pander to the media, to progressives, to republicans, to the middle, to women, to whomever he has to in order to get into the White House. And you might say that other candidates do it as well, and you're right, to a certain extent, politicians somewhat do that. But there is a fundamental difference, other candidates have firm stances on issues and records to back up their claims. I will use Hillary as an example. Whether you agree with her or not, no one can question whether she really believes in health care reform because she has been one of the most out spoken people in regards to this issue, both when she was in the White House, and when she was first lady of Arkansas ( she also has passed legislation on this issue). No one can question whether she is pro-choice because, time and time again, she has voted for pro-choice legislation. But it saddens me to say that, whether Obama or Republicans get into the White House, it will the progressive Democrats, the same people who are helping to put Obama in the White House, the ones that will be the most affected.

And the worst part is, they can even see it.

I am eager to see some new polls after this "Oprah horse & pony show" and see if there are as many weak minds and easily led people as I am afraid there are. I hope people can see this for what it is, and that Hillary will be in the lead.

I see the words "fawning" and "crazy" and "wild"; that sounds like a Deepak Chopra seminar , not a serious discussion of Presidential qualifications. But Obama hasn't lowered crime over 50 percent the way Mayor Guiliani did; or cut taxes for all people and save a bankrupt organization the way Gov. Romney did, so I guess all he has to go on is the emotion.

I notice Oprama doesn't speak of personal responsibility, instead it's "don't worry you 'll be successful without hard work because we're going to tax successful people and just give you the financial rewards." Sounds like socialism is creeping into the country.

Obama is as genuine as they come. And whe Oprah, the nation's number one media sales person, backing him, the sky is the limit. I really don't see Obama winning, though, because America is not ready for a Black, or even a woman as president. The terrorists have made it harder for White America to trust any other color or gender in the White House. America needs a strong male who has balls and guts to stand up to the terrorists and wannabe communists seeking to make a come back. Huckabee? Giuliani?

This is a remarkable development.

Obama has got himself the biggest superstar in America, an astute, wealthy, and amazingly popular woman. She doesn't just sell glamor, she sells books and ideas.

Maybe he has a chance. He's head and shoulders above most of the candidates in both parties. Hillary is beginning to look like an ethical pygmy.

Obama could actually work some change in the behavior of what has been a disgusting American government for seven years.

It wouldn't be a huge change, power in America is distributed too widely, but it would be genuine change. Will vote for him any day…..

Obama campain adding Oprah so soon, clearly points out his inability to stand on his own and convince America that he is the one and points out his inexperience which is the reason any pragmatic person whould see he is not qualififed.

This is the worst in our political system when a candidate brings on the super rich to essentially buy votes and cover his inadequacies. The shallowness and meaninglessness of celebrities in politics is just offensive to the American people.

It is an insult to suggest we are foolish enough to select a candidate based on the endorsement of a mega rich celebrity who is saturated in her own belief of her sense of self importance. Winfrey’s money and fame will not solve the problems facing America. However, she is to self indulged to realize that. It’s very sad what they are trying to pull over on the American people. Just ask yourself why isn’t Obama enough?

Get over it people. Oprah can endorse anyone she wants, she's not running for president. Further, there isn't a candidate that would not have welcomed Oprah's endorsement whether republican or democrat. Or better yet try asking them.

What is wrong with you people? For those Hillary Clinton supporters saying that Obama bringing Oprah out is him trying to cover up his inadequacies, what then do you say when Hillary brings Bill Clinton to campaign for her in Iowa, the state which she seems to be in serious trouble to not win there? Some of you who are for other candidates need to get off of your high horses and pretend as if Obama is the only candidate with a celebrity endorsement. He cannot help if the media is taking this and running with it - he should in fact be thrilled because it is getting his campaign more attention and will give him a CHANCE to win over more Americans.

I haven't made up my mind yet whether it's Hillary or Obama, but with Oprah's endorsement of Obama, I'm definitely looking more at a Hillary vote. Oprah's support is a support for a black candidate, which I didn't think of Obama so much as a black candidate until now. Look at Oprah's history, ie: building a school for black's in Afric. What has she done for poor kids in this country???

How funny — I can hear Candy Crowley's voice in my head as I read this article. She has a very distinctive style. I wish CNN would use her more.

I love you Candy!

Oprah for Vice President !!!!! jerrysrollin.blogspot.com

think that people may be downplaying the importance of Oprah to the Obama campaign. It seems like political pundits are saying the effect will be minimal, but they are underestimating the power of Oprah. Like it or not Oprah turns anything she touches to gold. Obama may well be the next beneficiary and deservedly so.

Posted By Brennan, Riverside IA : December 8, 2007 10:34 pm

REALLY…WHAT ABOUT HER AFRICAN SCHOOL WHERE GIRLS WERE ABUSE. HOW ABOUT THAT PLASTIC SURGEON WHO WASN'T EVEN CERTIFIED. STOP FOOLING YOURSELF. This woman has lost her mind.

I never had any opinion of oprah. I was always nuetral about it. Now I am really turned off by this woman. She is really pathetic. She is shoving Obama in everyone's throat. I was undecided about who to vote. After this..it is not going to be Obama at any cost.

Ignorance is the mother of all evil. Most of the commentaries are obviously written by iliterate people whom would do best keep their stupid comments to them selves. All of you biggots (ignorants) should at least try to learn something new every day and apply them to your everyday life. Eventually if the people of good faith unity for the common good of all the world will be a world where everybody has a decent life and the respect that God has given each and every one of us.

Pick up books, read them and make up your mind about who would be the best voice to represent the ones who need better affordable health care, who will not send our children to die for them to get even richer, who will create sensible policies to assist the ones with less education and money to own a house/car, to make sure that there will be social security after a whole life of work.
Obama 08

I don't think we need a Male President because men have messed up our country.
We need a woman in office to clean up our mess so Mrs. Clinton may be our answer in the White House. I am a mid age Black Male and I believe a woman can get us back on track like big momma use to do when things went wrong.

Why did the chicken cross the road?
Posted By anon, new york, NY : December 9, 2007 8:34 am

Too funny man! HAHAHAHA!

It looks like you people are missing some points, Clinton and Obama are in huge crowds, with Celebrities to speak for them. While in the background Edwards is in both big and little cities talking one on one with the people of the state, not just to them en mass. People appreciate it more if canidates talk and more importantly listen to them. Yeah Clinton and Obama are the "It's time for a ________ president" canidates but I feel the primaries aren't going to be like the polls are showing at all.

You've got to be a mental midget to take ANY life advice from Oprah. She has the audacity to come out and act like it's about Barak Hussein's positions? Must be a coincidence that he's black and she's black. You people somehow buying into this sham should realize that it's all about race for Obama. That's why no one can criticize him or fat Oprah.

Oprah should be hitting the the jogging trial and not stop until she loses a few of her chins.

If anything, she should be endorsing Huckabee who can actually lose weight instead of blowing up into a blimp before your very eyes.

It is refreshing to see that although Ms. Winfrey does not need the headache of getting envolved in politics, she understands the historical importance of doing so now. She is enourmously successful not because of just talking, but for bringing out the ills of society, looking for sulutions and actually putting her self in the line of fire just to have a positive impact and help reshape the future of this world. She could be another Jerry Springer if it was just for the money. But I guess nobody has anything to say about Springer because all he does is get rich and do nothing for no one else. Stop bashing Ms. Winfrey whose only mistake is caring to leave this world a better place than what she found when she was born. I admire her for the courage, tenacity and unshakable faith in the good in people.
If she is willing to add to the millions of things that she already does the support for Senator Obama I say he must be a heck of a leader and most importantly a heck of a human being.

Obama 08

We need a brown-skinned president to work with the majority brown-skinned people of the world who control the oil, etc. "Minorities" identify better with other "minorities." The "white" administration is who they are angry and frustrated with. Obama will have more of an impact on the world than any other president ever has if he is allowed to be president and is truly elected and the election is not rigged.

Go Oprah. You are truly an inspiration to all. Barack - I wish you the best of luck!

I applaud Oprah's courage to get into-the-ring during this 08 Presidential campaign because she has nothing to lose.

Carey B….It takes no courage to do something if you "have nothing to lose". It takes courage to do something where the outcome actually will affect you and your life. I'm not impressed with Oprah's endorsement. I honestly don't believe that it makes much difference who becomes president. Until the president and congress are willing to work together for the "good of the country", and not themselves, nothing will change. I do think that a Clinton/Obama ticket might be "not too bad". No one could be worse than what we've got right now, but will they really be that much better?

Oprah just a talk show host and should not impact the America politics that much and she can't.
Obama is not capable enough to run alone, it is obvious.

VOTING FOR REPBULICAN IF OBAMA ON THE BALLET. ANYONE BUT OBAMA. OPRAH'S ENDORSEMENT HAS MADE IT FINAL DECISION FOR ME

Where is my last comment at? I only said that I like the 'how many votes is a hug worth', and I would say Oprah won Obama some votes with showing her support of Obama. and if only he weren't a democrat…that must have been the reason my post didn't post, too many democrats moderating postings?

I hope and pray that American voters are smart enough to vote for the person they think is the strongest, most knowledgable, capable candidate, in spite of the fact that a celebrity is for them. And I can't see any similarity between Obama having Oprah and Hillary having Bill–therefore both have "celebrities". Oprah will be no help to Obama if he becomes president. Bill is not a TV star, he is a very successful past president of the US. He will be there, since he is married to Hillary, to help with knowledgable advice, when she becomes president.
I only hope and pray that people aren't led off the path of sensible decision, to vote for Obama. He is too weak, too inexperienced. We all HOPE, but that doesn't get anything done. We need someone who hopes, but also works on the problems. We need Hillary!!

Why did the chicken cross the road?

GEORGE W. BUSH:
We don't really care why the chicken crossed the road. We just want to know if the chicken is on our side of the road, or not. The chicken is either against us, or for us. There is no middle ground here.

DICK CHENEY :
Where's my gun?

COLONEL SANDERS:
Did I miss one?

AL SHARPTON:
Why are all the chickens white? We need some black chickens.

OPRAH:
Well, I understand that the chicken is having problems, which is why he wants to cross this road so bad. So instead of having the chicken learn from his mistakes and take falls, which is a part of life, I'm going to give this chicken a car so that he can just drive across the road and not live his life like the rest of the chickens.

BARRACK OBAMA:
Although I voted to let the chicken cross the road, I am now against it! It was the wrong road to cross, and I was misled about the chicken's intentions. I am not for it now, and will remain against it.

The oprah endorsement is repulsive. This is a low moment for american politics. Oprah believes that everyone is victim. Finally, Oprah endorsed Obama b/c he is black.

Not a blind follower, I am thinking same way with you. Obama doesn't know the answer for US Senate Votes, he couldn't give us Yes or No, he is scared to be criticized by people, he is a real chicken and liar. Obama used wife, Michelle's help, it doesn't work, now using Oprah's talking power, I don't think American voters decide their minds by her talking, they care his political view, Obama failed his job as Senator and candidate, will never make a bigger job.

Oprah looked a bit nervous and she admitted that she was a bit out of her element. I have no problem with any endorsements of candidates from anyone, but it doesn't influence my vote.

Unfortunately, I was not impressed with Senator Obama. I'm not impressed with any candidate that gets up and promises jobs for everyone, health care for everyone, college for everyone, etc. That is just talk.

Half (more or less) of the people posting here could give that speech (we may have to get some speech lessons, but we could do it). That does not mean we are qualified to be President. What have we done that SHOWS that we are capable of handling the job?

How many times have we seen a good talker give a really good job interview, but when they get on the job - you see that they really can't do the job?

Just some thoughts. I'm an undecided voter, but I need to be sure that I vote for a person that has the ABILITY, not just the TALK.

Oprah, should be using her resourses to clean up the sex abuse at her " girls school" instead of playing politics, what schools has she opened in this country for poor girls?

Oprah = more people see him and hear his message = more Obama voters. But it's the shear size of these rallies that is going to help convince some on the fence that he's for real. When you look around at 30,000 people, it makes you think "hey, this guy CAN win. I'm not wasting a vote." That will help at caucus time.

Was obama there? Appears it was the Oprah show live? and thats why we should vote for barrack? I DONT THINK SO..HAHA

IOWA KNOWS OBAMA IS NOT THE ANSWER!
It is proven over and over in his short time as a senator that Obama doesn't have the nerve to take on tough issues, ducking votes on abortion and Iran!!! Seeking a trillion-dollar tax hike and raising the retirement age for Social Security!!!! He does not support health care for all children! PLAY ATTENTION IOWA AND THE REST OF THE COUNTRY!
Obama completely skipped the Senate vote on Iran. But throws mud at ALL the other senators doing their job. Take a look at his public tenure in the Illinois Legislature, where lawmakers can vote "present" (If you can believe that), instead of yes or no on a bill. Obama, votes “present" on SEVEN ABORTION MEASURES!!!! Unbelievable! WAKE UP IOWA! The President can't vote 'present.' Nor pick and choose which challenges he will face. This guy is not afraid to make ANY decisions. LOOK AT THE FACTS The world is watching you first! SHOW THAT YOUR ARE INTELLIGENT PEOPLE, Not Americans who can be dazzeled out of their vote for a TV talk show host!!!
DO NOT WASTE YOUR VOTE ON OBAMA he cannot win in the general election. A vote for him is a vote for the Republican Party

It was great to see three generations of strong intelligent woman in IOWA Mrs. Clinton, her mother and daughter, We truly are in a momentous time, where a woman's potential has no limitations," "Hillary Clinton has already proven to a generation of women that there are no limits for success. She is driven by her passion for public service and her belief in the enormous potential of our country. Smart, capable and strong in her convictions, Hillary has transcended the dictates of what is thought to be possible for our time.
"Hillary is a powerful voice for change as we find our country at an important crossroads. Under her leadership, our country will regain its respect within the global community. She will prioritize issues of global climate change, universal healthcare and rebuilding a strong economy. After 8 long years, the public will once again have faith in their government.
"Another former first lady, Eleanor Roosevelt once wrote, 'In government, in business, and in the professions there may be a day when women will be looked upon as persons. We are, however, far from that day as yet.' More than 50 years later 'that day' is now upon us…and Hillary Clinton is ready to shatter through that glass ceiling for all women."

OPRAH has put woman (her viewers) back 50 years! Shame on you Oprah!
VOTE FOR CLINTON

Story under the radar but shouldn't be since Barack Obama is a candidate for President of the United States

The writer of the article below brings up points

Is Oprah Supporting Racism in America?

Now and then, when you see a candidate that offers much hope to reverse the flow of negativity, you want to join the movement to reverse the flow. I think this is what Oprah sees in Obama. Obama's gift is his ability to inspire people. People are like lights, dispersed energy. Now, if he can focus that energy and turn it into a laser to do effective work, that would be something. He is a catalyst. He inspire people with his energy. People in turn are inspired and inspire other people … then it becomes a movement. Many people recognizes his gift and wants to join the movement to turn this country around … and then be remembered to take part in this movement to turn this country around. Oprah is one of them. We are at a crossroad, and this is the moment.

my last posting was to be 'maybe if he was not a democrat………

I like that, how many votes is a hug worth? You can bet Oprah won Obama some votes for sure with that one. Maybe if he was a democrat….

I generally respect Candy Crowley's reporting.

However, there is a huge segment of the American voting public that couldn't give a wit about Oprah Winfrey. We have jobs, and are generally at work when her brand misguided advice is dished out in the afternoon.

I took Oprah off my things to do list years ago. Can't stand her. But she does have the right to endorse anyone she wants.

I'll be voting for the other girl.

CLINTON '08

Obama must have figured he couldn't win on his own. I don't think Iowans are foolish enough to let oprah tell them whom to support. John

I did not attend the Oprah rally but read about it in the Des Moines Register. That reporter noted that hundreds started leaving during Obama's speech. The attendance does not necessarily reflect Obama's level of support, and "fans" do not necessarily become caucus attendees. Serious caucus goers avoid big rallies like this because all you hear is the same old stump speech and there is no opportunity to ask questions. This may have been more of a distraction than a clever tactic. I guess we will find out on January 3rd.

Does anyone see a possible backlash here? I hate it when anyone tells me how to think with their mega-media empire. Let me judge for myself who to vote for! Oprah is a gifted speaker, it's just that this tour smacks of another Oprah-fest, with her sidekick and everything! I want to see more of Obama, not "O."

Oprah was tremendous. Barack didn't disappoint either.

I love Oprah and support all the social work she has done. Still I fail to understand why people seem to think that Hilary has not helped Americans outside of Politics. If you do the research, one would see all the things that she has done and continues to do for children, poor Americans, women, and healthcare. I think people like Oprah or Obama, that denounce a persons hard work will never win my vote. Hillary deserves more create then she receives, and I think it's due time people started showing some respect. I have seen her blood, sweat, and tears. I have seen her put her heart on the line and fight tooth and nail to improving the lives of all Americans. I still do not see much of a difference in what Obama says and in what Hillary believes. Obama's social-work history outside of politics does not compare to all the social work Hillary did. No candidates dedication, heart and soul is more dedicated to making our country better for all Americans then Hillary Clinton.

How awesome it is to know the value of one’s self.
Ms Oprah’s worth to Mr Obama goes far beyond $$$$signs & simply making a $4,600.00 max donation
to his presidential campaign.May The O be with you
Mr Obama in 08.

Dawn in Vancouver B.C
CANADA

As a black woman, I have to say that one of the main reasons I love Oprah so much is because of her fervent desire for not only women of color but all women, to take some personal responsibility for themselves. I don’t think that until we can fully understand that the choices we make affect out present and futures, can we successfully progress and have a positive impact. Her aligning herself with Obama is wonderful because from what I’m reading about him, he’s also a huge supporter of womens’ causes and becoming self satisfying.

There was a post I read earlier urging blacks not to vote for Obama simply because he’s black, however; the main reasons given to support Hillary were from causes her husband Bill was a champion of. I recently posted a blog specific to this type of mentality amoung my people of thinking that Hillary is some how by proxy going to be her husband if elected. Not true people. The same rationale given why not to vote for Obama (because he’s black) is the same applied towards why we should vote for Hillary (because of Bill). I urge all voters of all races to be independent thinkers and vote for someone because of what they stand for, not who they know or what color they are.

Some of you posting really need to get your facts correct or at least do a little research before you post!

1.) Oprah endorsed Obama long before any debates or him gaining momentum, check past interviews with Larry King months ago!

2.) Celebrity endorsements and celebrities stumping for candidates is something that has been going on for years and years…why should we be outraged now? (When Al Gore ran for president in 2000, Ben Afleck, Rob Reiner, Whoopi Goldberg and others stumped in Bethlehem, PA for Gore).

I think that there should be no underestimating the effect of this kind of thing. When caucus goers think back and remember the energy, excitement, and happiness of the event, they will think more about Obama than other candidates. As has been said, Oprah can't hurt his campaign.

Those who complain or whine about Oprah’s endorsment of Obama truly need to get a life.

Oprah Winfrey has lived in Chicago for decades, and has not moved to Hollywood or Manhattan. She has seen up close and in person what Barack Obama has accomplished in Chicago as a young community organizer, and then as a state legislator.

To mock her for being a rich black woman is a unique blend of racism and class warfare in reverse. Good for her and good for Obama!

While I feel that Hillary is a much stronger candidate than Barrack Obama, I must say that America should just leave Oprah Winfrey alone and not criticize her character…

Oprah can publicly support whichever presidental candidate she wants too, yet it is the citizens of America who will determine who is president in '08.

Cnn was wrong for cutting of the rally when it was time for Obama to speak. Thank God for Cspan.

I loved this article on the ticker. Great job CNN. Oprah has a huge gift in life, well, in truth she has many gifts but the one that stands out above all others is her gift of truthful "communication." When she speaks people know she is telling the truth and that the words are hers and hers alone, heck she even wrote the speech she gave today. I'm impressed. How many politicians write their own speeches? Now that would be a good polling question.

I applaud Oprah's courage to get into-the-ring during this 08 Presidential campaign because she has nothing to lose. Her strength is admirable and I am proud to be a woman today. Thanks CNN.

Mrs. America….BFF Best Friends Forever.

You know it always surprises me when people make the argument that a celebrity endorsement means I should vote for that candidate. The endorsement is really not the point but campaigning with and for a candidate by a celebrity will bring people out to see the celebrity and then be able to hear the candidates' position. Isn't that the whole point of a campaign, to get as many people as possible to hear your position and see what you stand for? So what's the problem with a celebrity facilitating that anyway?

Great story from Candy Crowley! SHE'S the Best! KUDOS to Candy at the Opie and Obie show.

HOWEVER, "Endorsements do not decide elections", but Oprah's money will make a big difference here, won't it? I wonder how many people went there expecting to get a free car?

Oprah has been a supporter and friend of Senator Obama for years. Many celebrities endorse politicians, and it rarely makes a difference. Oprah is different, but we'll see.

I fully support Senator Obama and see him as the greatest hope this country has seen in a very long time.

No she is doing what she thinks is right! it is America after all! Go for it for he is better than hillary!

Rachelle, you obviously so far away you don't know much about Oprah & what's happening here. Oprah has endorsed Obama WAY…BEFORE he even decided to run for president.

You've gotten as far as commenting, might as well go a lot further, do your research, get informed, it's not that hard.

Obama has to go outside of his family to get support…Cheney is busy this weekend.

Obama should be humble and take a position in Hilary Administration to learn for several years. Perhaps then he will be more capable.

oprah drew on her rabid fans to vote Democratic when Bush got his second term…she didnt help then and she wont help now.

Go Hilary!!!Nothing I can imagine worse than a Obama pres and Oprah vice pres…would rather think of a Hilary pres and (perhaps) a Al Gore vice pres????

Oprah supported him long before he was heading for the lead if you check your facts!

If anyone thinks America is completely over race, you have never been outside of your little world of a community then! Even on the campaign trail in Iowa the issue came up.

This is great for the visibility factor Obama seems to have in some places of the south!

P.S. Ellen will NEVER be half as good as Oprah!

thats it…if Oprah endorses Obama I'm afraid I can't watch her show anymore…whats Ellen up to these days

Perhaps Hilary should get Martha Stewart to bake something nice for the next debate…or John Edwards to get Ellen Degeneres to dance with him on stage. Seriously…I would not want to think that Americans are so shallow we would chose a leader of the world superpower based on the recommendation of a daytime talkshow host.

Oprah, Thank you for supporting and endorsing Obama. Americans are a smart people and they know who is the right candidate. However it is interesting to see if other people also support your views or not.
We need somebody who can bring this great country together, who can bridge the divides; the rich and poor divide, the red and blue divide, conservatives and liberal divides.
I am an independent and I have not heard the message of HOPE from any other candidate so far. Maybe Mitt came close to it. I love it when Barack says ": I want to be the President of ALL Americans". Oprah, thank you for your efforts. Barack is the way to go. We do not need somebody who polarizes this country. We need somebody who can heal this country, be strong on defense, help the economy, take care of our veterans. Thank you Oprah for sharing your views with us.
Go Obama!

Mrs. America,

BFF - Best Friends Forever.

hey no comment could be hate crime will we have freedom of speech in my opinion -o

Oprah's endosorement is as good as her baking of that infamous plastic surgeon, MJ, her african school where kids are abused. Obama is in the same category in terms of value. Oprah just stik to your lousy talkshow. BTW Ellen is alot better and entertaining than you.

Thank you for your honest and insightful blog post, Candy. You're one of my favorite political correspondents at CNN.

Obama '08!!!

Where is the outrage? Are we seriously taking celebrities on the campaign trail now? If Obama can't get elected on his own then he isn't the person for his the job.

Why did Oprah Winfrey not support Obama before she saw him heading for the lead in the debate?
At this time, is there something in it for her?
Rachelle Martin

Oprah and Obama together give a very negative image for Obama campaign: both are talkers. Only thing Oprah is famous for is talking. That is exactly what Obama does, talking. He missed over 80% votes in US Senate and has been the most ever “present” Senator in Illinois Senate (meaning he does not vote “yes” nor “no” but say “ I am present but not vote”). Now the Talk Queen endorses and stands together with the Talk King, emphasizing what they are in common—doing noting but talking!

I think that people may be downplaying the importance of Oprah to the Obama campaign. It seems like political pundits are saying the effect will be minimal, but they are underestimating the power of Oprah. Like it or not Oprah turns anything she touches to gold. Obama may well be the next beneficiary and deservedly so.

In referrence to Barak Obama. It offends me that the media consistently refer to him as a "Black" candidate and the recent endorsment by Oprah appears to reinforce the label of a man of colour.
May I point out that he is as "white" as his is "black". His Mother was White His father was Black.
Isn't it time we moved past such archaic thinking and started looking at people for who they are and what they stand for?

Oprah Winfrey should listen what Ambassador Andrew Young said about Barack Obama. What Ambassador Young said is an eye opener about Obama which nobody address even the media. And YES Obama went to an Islamic school in Indonesia(that's coming from Ambassador Young). Ambassador Young is African-American and Lt. of Martin Luther King Jr.

http://www.newsmakerslive.com/

Somebody need to clean up this mess Bush is about to leave behind, Obama can't clean it up; but Hillary can!

I love Oprah!
Check out my blog
http://themouselife.wordpress.com/
for some awesome stuff!

Oprah double speak - where is the story on that CNN - When Clinton did it - you rush to post that story -

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vqVtRJeXxXM

Nice write-up, Ms. Crowley.

Nice to see that even a world-weary reporter was impressed by this event. Oprah will not get him votes - but she will catapult him to national attention, to all those corners of the country where his name is still barely known.

I would not be surprised if the non-political press covers this too - outlets like People Magazine, for example.

Obama for President!

That is what this was all about to begin with. To have oprah draw the large crowds that could possibly have a large amount of undecided voters and 'let' Obama make his case to the people. Oprah was not there to change people's minds, that was Obama's job.

For once, in a long time, I read a well written post that is not biased towards Hillary!

Thank you, CNN.

I have to admit I've never seen Oprah's show because my schedule doesn't allow much TV time, and I use what I have to catch the Situation Room in the afternoon, or at least part of it. I know Oprah is a super star and outrageously popular. However, I would certainly hope people think for themselves and vote on candidates' merits, not on what star someone has in tow.

And, what is BFF? I haven't posted in a few weeks. Did I miss some new code?

Oprah, Obama, OooooooooooPs……..!

oprah endorses some1 and coincidently he,s afro american what makes him better then the rest he,s moral,s, his beliefs, his star quanlities, his looks maybe? is this not a form racism?

Poor Hillary the hag how do you compete with Oprah. Looks like Hillary will have to crawl back in her hole here in the next few months after she loses the nomination.

I think it is terrible that Oprah has endorsed any candidate so publicly. There are millions of people that are followers. They will not do any research on any of the candidates, they will not watch a speech or read a newspaper. They will vote for Obama because Oprah says to. Shame on Oprah for using her power in the wrong way.

The Oprah endorsement for Obama was one of the Hillary campaign's greatest shocks. They actually believed if Oprah endorsed anyone at all, it would be Hillary herself. It was in the stars.
Here's my take (worth 2 cents). Someone (a small group, most likely) very, very high up in the busines/political/people whose-names-we-don't- even-know power structure of this country decided Hillary was not the right person for them. Whether she or Bill ticked them off or disrespected them or whatever, Hillary's name got taken off the list. She has to go. Now what needed to be done? Decide how to take her out. But it had to be in a slow, humiliating manner. How better than to seed a young upstart with no special experience, someone who was likable, smart, black and, of course, a male. Voila, Obama. I mean he really did come out of nowhere, compared to Hillary. A major personality, a BIG brand, had to be chosen to push Obama far forward in the race, and attract major media attention in a credible manner.
Someone approaches Oprah to check her out. They explain the plan, tell her the MSM has already bought into the plan, promise her whatever, appeal to her ego, and finally she consents. For the first time, she will go public, very public, for a presidential candidate.
In the meantime Hillary boils. How could they do this to her? Her campaign advisers scratch their heads. They haven't got a clue about what to do next. She has been double-crossed. She is on a rampage. "DO SOMETHING!!" she screams to her staff. This was not supposed to happen. This time it's not the vast right wing conspiracy trying to destroy her plans for greatness. It's the democrats.
Gotta be a hard pill to swallow for her and Bill. Now they have to figure out who's behind all this. Who did they tick off? They will never know.

I LOVE Oprah!! Is it me or has Oprah EVER campaigned for a candidate before? Is it that they are both people of color?

Has Oprah ever endorsed a candidate?
In 52 years…why now? Someone enlighten me. He's pretty wet behind the ears; no experience to speak of.

It's a little baffling if it's not racial.

Good for her. I watched the whole event and can not be any success to Obama than it was today. I am an independent and I think Oprah made me think Obama can change the world for me. I am for O…………..

Hahahahahah, Cnn just commenting on where you have put ticker today. Looks like you are getting desperate too, right?

Oprah, you should not be so political. I won't be your fan any more.

Obama, we won't vote for you no matter who you are bringing in. You need to be more experienced.

Maybe instead of entertainment people would consider more information about the policies proposed by candidates.

An interesting article about the famous health plan proposed by Obama. You know the guy? The one Oprah praised as 'the man with a new vision for America"

http://www.nytimes.com/2007/12/07/opinion/07krugman.html?n=Top/Opinion/Editorials%20and%20Op-Ed/Op-Ed/Columnists/Paul%20Krugman

Why not try to be the VP of Clinton and learn from her for some years first?

Obama is not capable for President no matter who he brings in to help him.

Obama, I and my friends won't vote for you no matter who you bringing in! And we are not going to wathc any of Oprah's show any more!

Hard to believe people would fall for this gimickry.