Oprah and Obama were greeted by record crowds on the campaign trail last weekend.
WASHINGTON (CNN) - Oprah Winfrey's recent campaign swing with Democratic presidential hopeful Barack Obama was greeted with wild cheers and record-breaking crowds.
But some of the talk show host's fans aren't happy she's become politically outspoken, and many are sounding off on Oprah's Web site.
"Oprah," says one, "count me as tuned out for now." Another writes, "It's a real turn off for a lot of your fans." And yet another says "She has crossed a line and lost my trust completely."
But, what's especially interesting about reading Oprah's Web site is why some of those fans seem to be upset: the way she stumped for Obama, they say, seemed to pit white against black.
"I've been inspired to believe that a new vision is possible for America,"
Oprah said while on the stump with Obama in South Carolina. "Dr. King dreamed the dream, we get to vote that dream into reality."
Back on Oprah's Web site, one commenter wrote, "Winfrey has artfully begun her stump speeches alongside Obama with a negative racial tone."
And another commenter wrote, "Don't pit blacks against whites."
Interviewed on ABC's Good Morning America Wednesday, Winfrey rejected the notion she is supporting Obama merely because he is black.
"I get a little..I guess the word is 'offended,'" Winfrey said. "To think that I would be supporting someone just because of their skin would mean we haven't moved far from Dr. King's speech in 1963, where he said we should be judged by the content of our character not the color of their skin."
In another interview, Winfrey told CNN that she weighed carefully whether she should get involved in politics, wondering whether she would "lose viewers as a result."
"I made the decision that I have the right to do it as an American citizen," she said.
Related video: Oprah hits 3 states for Obama
Related video: Oprah's S.C. Obama pitch
Related video: Obama: 'We're doing it'
Related video: Jeanne Moos: Obama-Oprah soul
– CNN's Carol Costello
From CNN Politics
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She proves shes a racist with every speech she gives on the campaign trail. A billionaire telling us shes just like any American. Pure lies and she never backed a candidate befor until a Black man was running. She buys her audiences with gifts and the prospect of gifts. She sold out long ago.
Since when is supporting a candidate whom you believe in, and who happens to be the same race as you, "pitting whites against blacks." Thats absurd. Any racial context drawn from this comes from the individuals perceiving it. I am an African-American and my support of Barack, just as Oprah's support of him, has nothing to do with racial anything, it has to do with seeing a candidate that inspires and strikes a cord in your spirit.
I commend Oprah for going out on the campaign trail and speaking her mind. I have never understood why it is considered a crime that celebrities be politically involved. As an American citizen it is not only your right and privilege but also your responsibility to be politically active. By campaigning for Obama, Oprah was only fulfilling that responsibility. The problems that this country is suffering are a result of the political complacency of so many Americans and I applaud Oprah for her attempts to bring more attention to an election as important as this.
The truth is that those comments on Oprah were repetitive. You have Clinton female supporters posting angry comments and the republicans also fighting Oprah too for making Obama so visible. Oprah responded well and is so smart to have anticipated the response and stuck to her convictions.
Isn't that what we as Americans should be doing to stand up for what we believe no matter what haters say? Another way to look at it is that controversy brings about more fans for Oprah.
If you think she got an angry backlash wait till she brings out new tickets for her show and then SHUT UP.
Poor Oprah will be Chastised by the very White people who made her rich. They will feel betrayed. They will say outlandish and cruel things about her character. The truth is she will get past it. The same flack she received because she spent 40 million in Africa instead of the U.S.A shows she beats by her own drum. Keep it up Oprah!
I just do not understand america. As a white person I do not know why we dont bring the racial subject up when a white person endorses another white person, but as soon as a black person endorses a person with vision who happened to be black (half white and half black) we assume it is racially motivated. Stop being ignorant fellow americans!
She says that she isnt supporting him because he is black. But it seems a little odd then that she has not supported any other candidate the this extreme in the past. It is just quite conveniant then that he is black.
Oprah says it's not about race. When is the last time she campaigned like this for a white candidate?
I guess if Oprah would have been a political celebrity for years, no one would have blinked. What bothered me during her speech, was her dialect. It didn't sound like her. She sounded like she had every intention of appealing to just the black community. If you are honest about your convictions, fine, but don't insult your audience by performing something that could be heard in a southern town in the early 1900's.
Orpah is supporting someone who she believes in. Why does she needs to be critized for her belief? It should not be a turn off for her fans but just and understanding of who Oprah really is and that she wants a new America Just like everyone else who is looking for change. People should not feel ill of her.
I think an all important question is: If Obama were white, would Oprah still support him? Be honest, Oprah. Because I haven't seen Oprah back a political figure this in such a public way ever before a black candidate entered the race.
I do not believe that Oprah's true fans spoke against her regarding her support for Obama. I think CNN gathered data from the few who sent the negative comments and blew it up. Everyone is entitled to speak out about whoever they believe in.
Is CNN unable to see, like pretty much almost any reasonably intelligent person can, that all of the "fans" of Oprah who critized her on her webpage, were obviously not fans of her's to begin with? And that they are rabid supporters of another presidential candidate (most likely Clinton or a Republican candidate), who are making up their bogus stories on the website to try to create inaccurate spin that Oprah's campaigning actually hurt Obama? (which is obviously not the case)
To be honest, I'm not sure the answer to that question either. CNN's writers could possibly be that dumb; at the same time, it's very possible that they fully know that the "fans" bashing Oprah are pretending to be fans but CNN's bias towards Clinton is causing them to write this article anyway.
Even though I am black I am very disappointed in Oprah for her decision to jump into politics at this stage of the campaign. At least she should have waited until the party picked a candidate. Anyway, I am even more disappointed in CNN than I am in Oprah. CNN has been so biased against the Republican candidates and George Bush that even my children and nephews watching CNN are saying that we should never tune to the station. It looks as if CNN and the Liberals pray everyday for the worst to happen in Iraq so they can run a successful campaign. Is that patriotism or what?
Those who automatically assume Winfrey is pitting Black against White by her supporting Obama are themselves delving into a white racial knee-jerk reflex. Because of her years of public open neutrality on race issues she has more credibility than most media personalities.
Oprah, lets face it. You know how much power you have. That's why you did it ie to persuade voters. And with conditions ie every one attending your rallies had to give their name and address.
Again I say you have abused your power.
And don't say Obama's campaign is not as negative as the others ...just look into his website or answer his email.
He is critical of Hillary for her latest vote concerning Iran. Well at least she showed up to vote.
Obama will loose to the Republican's if he is elected. The only person capable of beating the right-wing machine is Hillary Clinton. You may not like everything about her but we can't afford the Republican party keeping control of this country for another 4-8 years. Come on DEMS!! Don't shoot your own feet off by nominating Obama. He will be eaten alive!!!!!!
Oprah's endorsement coupled with his past cocaine and marijuana use totally turned me off to an Obama candidacy.
Go Hillary !
well Oprah you made your decision I hope you have enough loyal fans that support your version of not pitting black against white. From where I sit The situation of stumping for obama stinks.
Signed a Lost Veiwer
Your headline should read: Oprah loses 0.00000000000015963% of her viewers as a result of stumping for Obama.
At the risk of being thought a racist, I have to say that it is hard for me to get past the belief that if Barack Obama was white, and had the level of experience and national reputation that he does, few people would really be taking his candidacy very seriously.
I agree. If Obama weren't black, Oprah would not be supporting him. It makes you question her judgement in other matters as well. I also noticed on her show that she treats black children tenderly, more tenderly than white children. Imas referred to Oprah once as racist. I don't think she is racist, but I don't think she realizes that she is not even handed racially either. It's something she needs to examine about herself. Even if she is not racist, but makes some white people feel that she favors black people, she should examine that as well.
So with this black vs white thinking then obviously if you're a female voting for Hillary, you are pitting male against female.
I hope these people aren't responsible for children.
The Clinton/Rove tactics are being used in full force I see.
Thank you Ms Winfrey for being a role model for all people.
As a white woman who saw the battles of the civil rights movement firsthand, I think attacks on Oprah's character over her support for Obama are exactly why Oprah has not supported anyone before – because supporters of other candidates will use any reason to bash her now, when they would not have had she endorsed their candidate.
I do not think her message is about race. On the contrary, Oprah and Obama do not dwell on race and are unifying forces in America.
I am sure she took this into account when she decided to support Obama, but as she has said, this election is too important for her to not do what she feels is right.
I think the only people who are getting turned off are those who disagree with who she is backing as a political candidate. Was it surprising that she endorsed a candidate? Absolutely. Was in much needed? Definately.
Whenever I hear this "Is America ready for a Black and/or Female President?" I immediately have this thought: "Why do you ask? Is it because Americans are sexist and racist?" If that's not what is meant, then what do you mean by "ready?"
Personally? I think the "fans" who dared claimed this of Oprah need to ask themselves, and us Americans as a whole , why we still make this an issue about Race and Gender.
The people that are upset over Oprah's choice of a candidate seem to forget that she is a voting citizen of this country and is entitled to support whomever she chooses. How many more would be upset if she said, "well, I guess i'll have to go along with Hillary because after all, she is a woman."
Jesse
I really do not understand why people think that she is only supporting Obama because he is black. Would she be a sexist if she supported Clinton, would they think she was doing so because she was a woman? To say that she is pushing along racial lines is in itself a racial statement, the people who have made those comments are unable to see beyond race themselves.
I'm puzzled. When Senator Clinton (who actually lived in the South for years) used a Southern accent for effect, she was ridiculed for phoniness. Oprah goes to three states and uses three different accents that you will never hear on her TV show and all we hear is how wonderful she is. Go figure.
What a silly story. Oprah is an American citizen like the rest of us and can campaign for whomever she wants to support. As she said, she has voted for as many republicans as she has democrats. Were these same concerned viewers worried when she had George Bush on the show just before the 2000 election.
"Vote that dream into reality". Think about it...a black president-elect would not happen without an enormous amount of whites believing in him. Clear evidence that the majority of U.S. citizens are judging by the content of his character and not the color of his skin. Dr. Kings dream will surely have become a reality. Focus might more easily shift from racism and turn on the economic disparity raging between the rich and poor, which is the most prevalent source of suffering in this nation. Racism is becoming too much of a smokescreen and refuge for the wealthy scoundrels. Time for poor and middle-class of all cultures to band together and demand economic fairness. The slaves that exist today consist of all skin colors.
I think Oprah is at a level where she's beyond successful and genuinely wants to see Obama as president. The risk of losing viewers is really minor when you're as wealthy and successful as Oprah. I do think there is a self-interest involved though too, perhaps an interest in some kind of political future of her own. If Barack were to win, he would remember her endorsement and that would put her in an incredible situation in terms of power, even more so than now (which is hard to imagine). In the game of power, you only gain more power by taking risks with what you have attained, so naturally as a very ambitious woman she will risk her neutral political identity for the chance to gain a much bigger payoff. Also, Barack is so distanced from the rest of the democrats, she can still make the case she's not a hyper-political person, and in fact this is what makes her endorsement relatively unique and somewhat powerful.
WONDERFUL!!!
hopefully now she will stay in her 'area of expertise' and leave the politics to somebody else.....
I did 'un-register' from her website as well.... I lost any respect for her opinion.....
It is interesting Oprah receives "backlashes" because she supports a political candidate. Yet similar "backlashes" are not extended to other celebrities when they campaign for their candidate of choice. The problem here is not Oprah. She has all the right to support whoever she likes. The problem is with some Americans who are still not comfortable with a "colored" candidate. I feel sad (and disappointed) for those who have yet overcome their own prejudice for people who happened to have a different colored skin.
Keep up the good work, Oprah.
Race, please give me a break!! what color was sharpton? Jesse? when they were running! give me a break! most people on that Oprah seats are white! so again give me a break! this disgraced nation that can't think beyond the skin! color, what does the skin color have to go with anything?
Well it must be Hilary's fans that has that backlash against Oprah's choice for president. Well I'm not so much an Oprah fan but I am an Obama fan. I do admire Hilary and Oprah as well as Obama.
ITs called taking a risk, nothing would get accomplished otherwise. People need to grow up, Oprah is her own person and can make her own decisions.
BTW .. there was way more white people at any of those event then black people.
I dislike seeing someone who has been fortunate in life use their prestige and power to sway other people's decisions. Obama is a smart guy and will be an asset to our country– later. He don't have the experience for the job now, we suffer from that situation at present, very costly. Oprah, every argument, every disagreement and every war occured because some egotistical so and so thought everybody should live as they did! You don't have those rights yet.
When she made her comments about the Iraq war she crossed the line for me. What does Oprah understand about it. Count me out as an Oprah fan.
For me as soon as i heard that Oprah was meeting with Obama and showing everyone that she was voting for him i knew that some people were not going to be happy. Personally, it doesnt bother me at all, but it does seem that she is standing behind Obama simply because he is black. That really appears to be the only reason why she is standing behind Obama. Celeberities have no influence on my vote anyway nor should they. Like my mom says, "who are they anyway? They are just actors and actresses."
Although I am an African American, and deeply love and respect Oprah, I feel the more I see her pushing her powerful influence into the political arena for Obama, I feel I can't respect her as I did before, I feel I have to vote black vice the issues and for someone who I feel really has the experience!!! However, thanks Oprah for helping push my vote to Hilary.
Her support is surely based on race. I guess it's just coincidental that the first person she has ever supported just happens to be black.
Is anyone really surprised? Many popular celebrities, like Oprah, honestly believe that their success in entertainment makes them experts in all other areas of human endeavor. When I heard she was stumping for one of the 2008 candidates, I knew it would be for either the woman or the black candidate. Her decision to stump for Obama shows me that Oprah is first – black and second – female. The Dr King comment just shows her transparency in the matter. Be glad the Dr King reference happened early so that everyone can see her true ‘colors’ from the beginning.
What's wrong with Oprah supporting the candidate that is CLEARLY the best choice for our country. Black, white, yellow or green it shouldn't matter. I just want an honest and genuine president that is looking out for the good of the people, not a phony, say what the public wants to hear, candidate!
I find it very icky for celebs to get openly and actively involved with politics, especially someone like Oprah Winfrey. Not that I don't want them to be interested and active, but they should not do it in a way that overshadows the candidate. We in America put too much emphasis on celebrity, and that is exactly what happened on Oprah's tour with Obama. We don't need celebrity winning someone the White House. We need experience, a steady mind and someone with the will to un-do the extreme damage from the past seven years of the idiot we currently have residing in the White House.
Oprah has the right to be as involved as she wants–it is an American right. But she needs to tread lightly on how she uses her immense influence. I mean, how could she ever interview on her show any of the other candidates running against Obama? How uncomfortable and insincere would that be? Oy!
Again, we don't need celebrity overshadowing the real issues and focus on these candidates. Just my two-cents worth.
this is a sad day when someone is black balled like oprah, this is a touchy subject no doubt, but i knew people would try to spin this, this way because of the color thing oprah is right, i believe the people who wrote those things need to take a look in the mirror and ask themselves why am i so upset that i wrote those things??? all oprah did was something she has the right to do, just like they have the right to pleasntly disagree.
Oprah will be surprised to see Obama loose the nomination to HRC.I love Oprah but I disagree with her move toward Obama
I am very disappointed in her about her decision to get involved. And no matter how she spins it, there is no way that her decision to campaign for Obama isn't about skin color.
"She has crossed a line and lost my trust completely." -Why because she had the courage to express her convictions?
That's absolutely ludicrous and so is any American that would question another American's right to express their political opinion..
Go OPRAH! Do YOU, girl!
You know it's the lilly white repubs and even closet racist dems viewers that are always the first to claim Oprah is using race as a reason to back Obama, because Black pople don't have intelligence, ambition or a reason to even run for a seroius political office....
Such a shame, people always assume that any time one black person supports another it is about race.
But white people have been enjoying this privalegde for decades...
America needs to grow up!
Oprah would not stump for Obama if he was to claim his whiteness (for his white mother). On the other hand, she is pitching blacks against whites.
Each candidate should be judged on his/her merits, not based on a celebrity endorsement. Oprah might have out-shone this 2-year unior senator from Illinois.
I read through many comments from her fans at Oprah's website, and I can understanding their frustrations with Oprah's stumping for obama.
If this is not a black white issue why does she now support a person for the whitehouse?
I'm with you Oprah...and I'm caucasion. We are all of the human race. JC
I suppose any white person who supports a white candidate must be doing it because the candidate is white. People please stop knee jerking. Hold on to your knees and give Oprah and others who support their own choice for president(whomever that may be) the benefit of the doubt.
Robert Herrmann
Fortson, GA
I'm glad someone is picking up on this. Oprah may not have meant for it to be received this way, but invoking Dr. King and his dream and insinuating a vote for Obama is a way of making that dream a reality is really risky and, I think, inappropriate.
Granted, if Oprah were supporting candidates just because they were black she would have been supporting Carol Mosely Braun or Alan Keyes in the the past.
Still though, it seems inappropriate to speak for Dr. King and his vision by saying electing Obama is a way of making the dream a reality. Why is it a reality when Obama is elected? Simply because he is black? Can it not be realized by electing a person that truly believes in the principles of equality, regardless of race, as Dr. King most likely would have argued?
oprah – black supporting black...plain and simple. I have never seen her support nor endorse a previous presidential candidate. NOW she is entering the political area...UNTIL there was a black candidate. (I intentionally wrote black in lower case – to be politically correct!)
It is so sad that such a high-profile "Hollywood" syndicated celebrity would stoop so low as to "wait" for the first black man to run for president to endorse him.....black on black...plain and simple
Reading too much into things. I really don't think a few comments on Oprah's website is indicative of any type of "backlash". As for her comments, it's obvious a few people are overreacting and seeing a racialized message I seriously doubt is there. I've never cared much for Oprah but I don't think she should be forced to live in a race and politically free bubble just because her fans expect her to. I haven't seen any other celebrities coming under fire for supporting the politicians of their choice. Personally I think this ticker is CNN trying to give attention to an "issue" that isn't an "issue" to begin with.
Will Obama still have Oprah's support when he loses?
Oprah did not give any strong reasons for why she believes Obama is better than any other Democratic candidates. So a leap in faith endorsement and unprecedented outpouring of support can only lead people to think of the race factor. Obama is just like a little kid who cannot win the fight and has to ask for help from his big sister. I never thought that he has the experience and the maturity. This proves me right.
Why anyone would vote for any candidate just because he is endorsed by Opra is beyond me. I listen to the candidates and make up my OWN mind. In addition, she seems to be trying to go back to making it a black against white issue and I hope we are beyond that.
I am not, nor have I ever been an Oprah follower. I quite frankly don't care what she thinks or who she supports. On this particular issue, I agree with her that she has a right to support who she wants and campaign for them. She says she weighed the possible costs and chose to go forward. Many celebrities support different politicians and campaign for them. It doesn't sway my vote and shouldn't sway anyone else's. We do live in the USA where we are supposed to be free, so I don't see why people are so upset about Oprah supporting someone. If you don't like what she has to say, don't watch her show, but don't complain about her using her freedom of speech.
Wh can't Oprah support candidate of her choice? Don't we all do that?
To bad if she is extremely recognizeable and popular. I wish I had a name like Oprah so I could support Barack Obama, the candidate of my choice.
I am a 58 year old white male. I believe we need change. White men have messed this country up so much, change is what we need.
I love how journalists, especially at CNN, think the plural of "anecdote" is "data."
Oprah has put her celebrity weight and status on the line for Obama. I believe Obama is Oprahs "ultimate" trophy. She made Dr. Phil. She knows her clout, and how influential America women are. You don't see men flocking and following Oprah in comparison, do you?
Good for Oprah! Her endorsement was an act of courage matching that of Obama's in running. She knew that her decision would alienate those who favored another candidate but she was willing to pay that price.
So Oprah is not supporting Obama because he's black?
Riggghhhhttttt. Give me a break.
Obama is black ? I thought he was half and half, which in my math makes him white too.
Let's get serious here. There are many Obama supporters who are behind him because of his color. There are also many Clinton supporters that are on her bandwagon because she is a woman. It is not a coincidence that Oprah's first foray into political campaigning is for a man of color. But, so what? That cannot be her only reason. But, once again, even if it is, so what. Guess what people, in the very near future, there will be people voting for their candidate just because he, or she, is a Democrat or a Republican. Not a new situation. Maybe stupid reasons for voting for someone, but that's the way it works. What were the "smart" reasons we voted GW in twice?
Her comments make it obvious that color is her only choice for picking a presidential candidate. Hopefully her program will begin to fail shortly after Obama's run for the White House.
I am a Hillary supporter and I am African American, that being said I think Oprah should be able to support whoever she pleases and shouldn't get any flack about it. Those are probably some of my fellow Hillary supporters posting those comments on her sight anyway...hahaha...the games we play
Oprah,
What about Hillary, womens liberation and all, I would have thought that a liberated woman as yourself would vote for her!
I personally think that we should find a way so that celebraties are not allowed to actively participate in politics by utilizing their fame to influence U.S. policy. Why should their voice count more than mine?
I think Oprah and all Americans have a
right fo campaign for whoever they think is the best candidate. I also
think that the negative comments are
coming from individuals that did not
understand Oprah; she is not trying to pit the races against each other. She's advocating that race doesn't matter. It's the indivdual that matter.
Oprah this just shows how out of touch
you are; most black know that things have not advanced that much when it come to black and white we live it everyday.
t
And if she supported Hillary would the men be mad that such a powerful woman in the industry was supporting a woman? As for the racial issue, Dr. King was talking about people being judged by the color of their skin, I don't find any racial overtone in what Oprah said. America knows that racism still exists, so lets just stop fooling ourselves. I don't think she is pitting blacks against whites, she is supporting a man who is black and whose issues and promises she believes in, there is nothing wrong with that, or nothing black or white in that.
ithink that oprah is a betrayal for our country,while our kids are suffering the bush administration,how dare you go to a different country and build a 35milion dollars school when these country is need. I WONT WATCH HER SHOW EVER AGAIN I WILL ASK FRIENDS AND FAMILY TO STOP WATCHING HER SHOW.
Drop it CNN. We know you are for Hillary and you have been running this same story for at least 5 days now. Don't try to destroy this wonderful woman for supporting him. It is NOT about race. It is about what is best for our country.
Obama 08
Let's see: She's been around like forever, and never campaigned for anyone, and then the first time she does so it happens to be for the first serious African American presidential candidate. Must be a coincidence.
Three fans is a backlash?? Wow....
So would 100 fans be catastrophic?
She has like millions of fans, so I don't think she has to be worried about alienating a couple here and a couple there. Not a supporter of Obama, but still 3 people?
Clinton 2008!
Anyone want to take a bet that the writings on the Oprah web site are part of the Clinton campaign machine trying to malign Oprah and blunt her obvious effectiveness to boost the Obama campaign?
Hillary is running scared, and as well she should be. Can anyone think of the last time 30,000+ people showed up to one of her events?
I wonder what these viewers say about Hillary's endorsements from white citizens. Do they opt for her because she's white or did Barbra Streisand endorse her because she's a woman. It's a completely absurd claim given Oprah's relationship with withe viewers. I feel ashamed for them
After viewing the entire South Carolina speech, one thing that was very noticeable was Oprah's and Obama’s emphasized accent that was used. This was not Oprah’s or Obama's normal neutral one, for Oprah, this was her southern accent that she uses to emphasis a common sense point or her upbringing experience on her television program. In my opinion this Obama rally accent was a play to the majority of who attended the rallies and you could not but pick up a message that it is now our time Black America. This is so unfortunate because many of her views are fully supported by all Americans regardless of their color. I do not support many of Obama's views and the Oprah appearances have created another reason not to support him.
Oprah is supporting Obama because he is the best candidate from either party, not because he is black. (Full disclosure: I am a white, 28-year-old male from the burbs that does not watch Oprah)
And she gets to do it as a really "rich" American citizen...which has more influence than any TV show.
Well as a senior citizen I do think Oprah should stay out of politics and stick with what she knows. Making money. Your show has lost me. I can't think that you have my best interest
at heart..
There are people I know that stopped watching Oprah Winfrey Show after she stumped for Obama. Their reason is plain and simple, "we allow you in our living room and listened to your advice, now you're telling us who to vote for."
This backlash is expected, I don't know if Oprah is aware how her audience would react to her decision going on campaign, it was rather a bold and brave move of Oprah. If she start losing her fans, her talk show will die. I don't think Johnny Carson have campaigned for any politician or campaigned for any of them. Entertainers sometimes forget, there's limitation, there's a line they mustn't cross if they want to maintain their avid fans.
why is it black against white...what is bill richardson? what is the ethnic background of the rest of the republican/democratic presidential possibilities?...get off of the white/black issue....get off of it....do you have issues with it...what color are you? white,black,pink,blue,red,green? does it really make any sense?!!
Oprah is realizing that its easy to be a host and talk about where you personally sit on issues. But when you place yourself solidly on the front lines of a campaign for a candidate that you become something entirely different. And its not a safe place to be. I admire her conviction, but expecting her fans to agree with her is too much to expect. Once you take a position on something like this you hold close those that agree with you and alienate the rest of your fans.
Telling it like I see it,
Wynter
I would rather vote for Mickey Mouse than Obama...and with Oprah now stumping for her obvious black candidate, I'm switching to the Martha Stewart show now...Oprah, you are so predictable...
Shes actually sicking to listen to anymore
I find it ironic that this particular topic is being addressed by Political Ticker. When I became aware of Oprah's fervent support for Obama, I submitted a remark that appears to have been expunged by Political Ticker. Nevertheless, I am in agreement with the sentiments being expressed. My resentment of Oprah's support for Obama was expressed with the comment rhetorically asking where Oprah was in the critical election of Gore vs Bush. It is clear that Bush's legacy has been disaster. But was Gore not "african-american" enough to warrant her support or beneficiary for Oprah's fervent desire for change and a new direction. I guess Gore did not fit the profile to be a member of the family. I truly thought that Oprah was capable of transcending an intellectual and emotional loyalty driven by race. Those who voted for Bush and those who did not make a stand against Bush are complicit in this historical political fiasco!
Dennis Kucinich stands more with black voters than Barack Obama has in the past.
From: http://www.blackagendareport.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=17&Itemid=34
If 2008 presidential candidate, Ohio's Dennis Kucinich were a member of the Congressional Black Caucus he would have scored 100% on the CBC Monitor's report card, while Barack Obama only scored 70%."
Black voters, Oprah Winfrey, and all voters should be aware that Dennis Kucinich would be better for ALL people of ALL colors.
Of course Oprah has "the right to do it as an American citizen" but that sure doesn't help her credibility or Obama's for that matter.
Oprah has endorsed lterally dozens and dozens of diets over the years and almost none of them proved to work,not only for her,but tens of thousands that tried them.
She has endorsed dozens and dozens of doctors over the course of her career and couldn't even find ONE that could diagnose a thyroid condition and many of them proved to be long on wind and opinions but very short on real medical skils.
Add all her fitness gurus,pohney authors and countless other fakes and quacks in a variety of fields,many of whom caused viewers and fans around the world to be the financial victims of the least of these and others than werelife-threatened by the worst with unsound medical and health advice!
Throw in "Dr."Phil with his so-called "counseling advice which is nothing more than stringing old adages together and making them sound as "pearls of wisdom" from his "experience" as a "Dr.,which he's not,"psychiatrist",which he's not,and trained counselor which every barber,bartender and cab driver can claim to be...and Oprah has no credebility to begin with.
So now she's capable of helping to decide who our next president should be?With her track record,Oprah is probably the LEAST qualified person to pick our next president!
I am sad to admit it but I have long since noticed Oprah has more viewers she helps, more black issuesetc. I don't think she realizes it, she is trying to bring attention to things that affect blacks. I will vot for the person who offers the most not the person with lighter or darker skin.
Oprah of course is lying, she is supporting him because he is black. I would have more respect for her if she at least admitted that was the reason she decided to campaign with him was because he was black.
This is really erking me! Why are people so upset with Oprah? I just don't get it. What if she supported Hillary? Would her viewer's then say "She's only supporting Hillary because she's a woman?" GET A LIFE ALREADY! I honestly do NOT believe that she's supporting Obama simply because he's black. I'm a huge fan of Oprah and I believe she's not that shallow or ignorant to support a candidate simply because of race (or sex for that matter). This is not a white/black issue at all and these viewers need to look in the mirror and question their own predjudice/racial ways...
This entire article is based on anonymous postings from Oprah's website? Did they do any digging to see if these aren't just Hillary's folks trying to reframe the debate? Come on, CNN, get these folks on camera. To try to make Oprah/Obama now the divider is laughable at best.
Oprah stumpted for a book that was a lie. Now she says race isn't a decision in her choice to stump for Barak.
Looks like Oprah has more in common with Mrs. Clinton than she would care to admit.
OH YEAH THEY BOTH UPSET ME!! NO VOTE -NO TV SHOW, BYE BYE YOU 2!!!!!!!!
I've never heard such a phony speech in my life! Who does Oprah think she is? Dr. Martin Luther King? God! What a ridiculous speech! To quote Oprah is disgusting to say the least: "You gotta step outta the boxah...what we need now is for America to step outta the boxah!" God, she sounded like the most stereo typed preacher I've ever heard since Richard Prior, or a James Brown Parody. What a joke!
Well the Clinton News Network aka CNN is at it again. Trash all those that don't support a Clinton to be president.
Boy, read this and who can say that it is not exactly what she is saying. No comment after this.
I lost trust in Oprah a long time ago...! When she created that school in Africa and made her comment about American schools. I also put her on my blacklist when she started those million dollar rich person's birthday parties... I used to watch her show but now I just by pass the station when she's on. She's phony, superficial and affected. Who is Oprah kidding when she says she's not supporting Obama because he is black... look in the mirror honey!
Oprah needs to let a man do his job. We know how strong opinionated she is. Does Obama need another woman besides his wife? Why can celebs just be celebs? Oprah does not impress me at all. She loves the limelight even if it is not about her, she will steal it and make it about her. People want to see a candidate who is able to run his/her campaign w/o celeb support. Yes, Oprah, can give billions to Obama, but please don't stand next to him, acting as though you are going to be the VP!! We know who you are, you don't need to be rubbing our faces that you are filthy rich, powerful and is an icon. Obama doesn't need any more women telling him what to do, makes him look like a wimp!! It would only do more harm than good. It looks as though Obama is weak and feeble. Oprah, your true colors are coming out. The preachy, self-righteous, appealing to black Americans, is very obvious what you are really doing on his stage. GET OFF HIS STAGE!! Go back to your studio or help the Katrina victims or go to Africa and do your projects there. Your fans only see you as a talk show hostess not a politician. Please don't use your influence to sway voters for Obama. Why should people believe what you say about him? He needs to sell himself to the people and convince and draw them on his own. If you want to run for office, do it on your own time and stage. You have all the money and power at your disposal. You have helped so many people and we can name them. Do you want to add another one on your list? The world is indebted to you FOREVER. Without you, would Dr.Phil, Rachel R, Gail be where they are today? No!! So leave Obama alone, he doesn't need you to take him everywhere by the hand.
Sure, Oprah has a right, as an American citizen, to publicly support a candidate. She denies that she is supporting Obama because he is black. Strange that she has never publicly supported and stumped for a white candidate, though. Don't you think?
Oprah must think we are all clueless. That fact that she campaigns with Obama after all these years of watching campaigns run past here; when there have been huge national concerns and now, after all of this time, she finally decides to stand up and use her power and money to help a Black candidate (with very little experience and an even less impressive political background). Seems silly, then, to cite MLK a "I have a dream" on the one hand, and then claim, its not because the candidate is black on the other.
I think that Oprah will lose more and more supporters over her choice to back Obamah. Oprah has always pushed for equality for women yet she decides to go all out for a black male candidate. Oprah's choice is clear, and we hear her loud and clear. And yes Oprah it is your choice as "an American Citizen" to make such a choice, and it is our right to tune you out.
Who cares what Oprah thinks. She's earned a living off other people's misery.
All the Queen's horses and all the Queen's men will not be able to put Oprah back again.
If she thinks she's fooling us by saying she's not for Obama because he's black, then she's fooling herself.
This is a fine line and i think it show how mature the american people become. We see the racial divide taking a different but crucial tone. And we are crossing a line that might definetly put Affirmative action and the way black america and white america look at itself.
This was quite previsible, but the argument is fatally flawed. You have Oprah who is respected among all regardless of her race and you have a black man Obama who is a serious contender for the 2008 presidential election. For some people, probably white america, it is just too much at once to ingurgitate. Some will absolutely resent the fact no matter what. I thing that if she has supported another candidate, the tone would not be the same among those supporters.
The bottom line is that two prominents and competent black americans at the front line of the face of america is just too much to goble at once for some americans. Some black would finds it unbelievable while white american would find it over the top. But this is a proof and a test of the american people as far as the race divide is concern.
My thoughts are as follows:Celebrity endorsments are a bad idea because even though some people worship them they still don't want to be told how to think by them. Plus, Oprah is obviously motivated by race. I know she says she isn't, but she also denies being a lesbian. I see nothing wrong with being a lesbian or being motivated by race but I wish she would have the courage to be honest.
I guess she thinks if we are stupid enough to watch her t.v. show, we are stupid enough to believe she is not supporting Obamma because she and he, are black!!
So, what if Ms. Oprah Winfrey supports Barak Obama because he is black?
Where is the mistake here?
Is it because she is a celebrity?
Celebrities have the right to do the same thing an average American does.
As an American she has the right to express her political support for whom she pleases.
If you go to Boston many Irish-Americans vote Irish and in if Rudy Guliani gets the Republican nomination many Italian-Americans will vote for him because he is one of them.
I am not an Oprah fan but I think those that get sanctimonious about her political leanings have encased Oprah in their narrow little minds where she is " OK " as long as she fits their way of thinking.
Get real, ALL Americans have the same right to free expression. That is a constitutional right, not to be confused with a campaign jingle.
al
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What offended me was the Southern accent Oprah affected while stumping for Obama. What was that about?
Pick a leader, not their skin colors.
I find the fact that people are seeing Oprah's endorsement of Obama as "negatively racial" to be completely hilarious.
It is amazing to me that Oprah has not backed anyone to date in her over a decade long career. Now she comes out to support someone who is african american and use quotes that rally the base around Senator Obama. It's very odd timing and odd cirucumstance for her to decide to come out at this point when there is a african american and bring the racial card with her. I support Senator Obama because he is what the country is looking for...a fresh soul for a fresh start with great ideas and morals. Please do not make this into something it's not and that's white vs black. Oprah should stick to something she is good at and that's not politics.
It's quite obvious that Oprah is making this a race issue. To quote Oprah once again, "Dr. King dreamed the dream, we get to vote that dream into reality." Simply put, Oprah is saying, voting for Obama, is a vote for racial equality. Oprah, don't be "offended", you are simply supporting someone because of their race, it is what it is!
Its OK. Oprah is OK, she doesnt mind losing a few fans to speak out her mind. People better get used to it. CNN, you will not succeed at intimidating Oprah not to support Obama coz what some of her fans say. She will be back gain in July 2008 when Obama, the democratic nominee is campaigning for president.Think you can stop this woman from exercising her right as an american citizen? think again
It seems to some people that if you get more that two black people on a stage at the same time, you are either watch an NBA game or a race riot.
I question the authenticity of the so called fans. Anyone can get on Oprah's site claiming to be a fan and say that 'You have step out of bounds, No More Soup For You'.
Why couldn't they conclude that they were both from Illinois instead of their shared skin color.
By the way: Obama is mixed raced, Winfrey isn't her DNA showed all African DNA.
And this would be right next to the piece about Babs losing fans for supporting Hillary ? Is this news ? Is not part of the definition of losing neutrality to create impartiality to and from oneself ? In my best James Earl Jones "This is CNN" ... where's the remote ?
Not surprising that some of Oprah's fans don't like her or Obama taking a front seat on the bus. As long as they are in the back seats and entertaining them endlessly, I guess everything is right with the world! I fully agree with Oprah that if Blacks had waited for the "right time to ask for voting rights" they would still be waiting. She's absolutely right when she says "now's the right time to ask to be given a chance at being President". If you think that's pitting blacks against whites, that's your problem, unfortunately!
this article makes no sense. how can anyone verify that the people who wrote were real O fans. if anything, judging from the so called comments, they don't look no fans to me..
WELL, I GUESS I'M NOT ALONE!!! I HAVE ALWAYS BEEN A FAN OF OPRAH WINFREY, BUT, I JUST HAVEN'T LIKED HER STUMPING FOR OBAMA. IT IS HER RIGHT, BUT I JUST DIDN'T LIKE HER ENDORSING HIM. SO I'M ALSO "TUNED" OUT!
EVERY REGISTERED VOTING AMERICAN
CITIZEN HAS AN IRONCLAD RIGHT TO SUPPORT ANYONE OF THEIR CHOOSING.
It is about race and I for one think it speaks volumes about both people. I don't like obama and I don't think he has much to offer but I am disappointed that Oprah is not honest in saying it is more about race then issues.
Good for her. She should be allowed to endorse anyone she wants. The difference between her, and say I, or you...is that her voice carries louder over the airwaves. It doesn't mean you need to LISTEN to her choice. Make YOUR choice, based on YOUR research and opinion! No one should be "swayed" by what someone else thinks. Also, if you like her show, her political opinion is no reason to stop watching. Do you stop watching your favorite TV show because an actor voted for someone other than you, or supported someone other than you? You may be left with nothing to watch! Just a thought...
Obama is using Oprah . Oprah should back off. I want be watching her show anymore.
What else would you get from the statement, "Dr. King dreamed the dream, we get to vote that dream into reality," then the suggestion that she is siding with Obama purely because he is black, and by voting for Obama, you'll be making King's dream come true?? Now come on Oprah, I may not be as smart as you, and may not have my own TV show like you, but I can still tell when someone is lying.....and you are lying.
Who would you be voting for if Obama weren't running? Hillary? Because she's a woman, and we need a woman in the white house? How about you vote on the views of the candidate rather than their skin color or their gender? If you can't be responsible enough to do that, then you shouldn't be voting.
Why it is always a black and white issue with white people? Can't Oprah support a president she really believe in irregardless of his race (and Obama is half white, so doesn't that matter)? Is that such a far fetched idea? This old one drop of blood mentally needs to go. If her fans are that shallow, they shouldn't be watching in the first place. Idiots.
There are comment boxes on most news or information websites now. But one Commentator said, he never reads the comments posted.
Here is a major news company CNN reporting on dismissive comments on Oprah's website as backlash? Do they match the thousands of people cheering at Oprah's and Obama's appearances?
When the comments reach thousands of them against what she's doing, that's real backlash.
She quotes Dr. King and some get offended? Obama starts "preaching" and some can't culturally understand? He's not "acting black". Are they demanding his white DNA come to fore?
Because some want to check out of politics they chastise Oprah for jumping in!
Too bad, because its a moment in time. Oprah doesn't have another appearance scheduled to be at Obama's side. She won't be doing ads supporting his Presidential run.
He may not be on her show until after the nomination happens.
People can be criticized for standing still, if they move one way or another more critics are bothered about the movements.
So basically people are upset that she's (supposedly) using her fame and ethnicity to garner points for this guy?
Funny, because no one would be asking these questions if Obama and Oprah was white.
Did Shaheen endorse Hillary because she is white?? Did Vilsack? Or did they endorse her because they believe in her candidacy?
Let's not forget that Oprah has been a personal friend of Obama for many years-they both attend the same church and she has witnessed his progression from a young community orgranizer to an intelligent and thoughtful senator/presidential candidate. Of course she is going to endorse Obama.
Once again, if they were white no one would be asking if race was a factor. All this hooplah means is that it still bothers a lot of people in this country when intelligent, powerful people who happen to be black get together to change things. The fact that this question is being asked is dirty and it is attempting to make me resentful of Obama and Oprah.
As a white male, I reject these attempts to awaken resentment in me and I believe that this country is so much better than.
Dr. King's dream WAS a united America. Remember the "I have a dream" speech? "I have a dream that my four little children will one day live in a nation where they will not be judged by the color of their skin but by the content of their character... One day right down in Alabama little black boys and black girls will be able to join hands with little white boys and white girls as sisters and brothers.
Pretty sure that is the OPPOSITE of pitting blacks against whites. MLK was a model for ALL Americans not just blacks. Obama is an example that America is ready to look past color and see the most qualified candidate we've had in a LONG time.
I guess she figured her outsized personality (read as ego) would carry the day.
Maybe she figured she is a celebrity and can do anything she wants.
Or perhaps she figured that she has more money than God and doesn't have to worry about a backlash.
The fact of the matter is, yes she has the right to support anyone she wants, this is still America. However, when most of your viewers don't share your views politically you get to pay a price for your support; and I have the feeling that most of her viewers are Republican.
Oh well, like I said earlier, she still has more money than God.
For every action, there is a reaction
Nuff said
Well, yes, Oprah, you do have the right to get involved in the political debate, but with that right comes the responsibility of being accountable for your views. Just because you happen to have the right to express your opinions doesn't mean that your viewers have to blithely accept your views. They also have the right to express their opinions, up to and including the right to stop watching your show.
It seems many people are making blanket statements that did not listen to her speech. I'm a white, American-born male and I do not see how her speech could be seen to pit black against white. He message was of the progress we've made as a nation over the past half century. Barack Obama would not have had this opportunity forty years ago due to the color of his skin. He has the opportunity now not due to the color of his skin, but due to his character, his charisma, his intelligence, and his message of hope.
Is Oprah getting flack from her supporters or those of Hillary Clinton.
This is so ridiculous. So a black woman endorsing a black candidate is presumed to do so _because_ he's black? What about the white people who have endorsed white candidates? Are we to presume that they did so _because_ they prefer white people?
The sad thing is that it's a complete logical failing, but it comes so natural for us. Whenever Americans see a group of black people hanging out they assume that they're bonded by race, but when we see a group of white people hanging out, we don't think anything of it.
People are led one way or another and Oprah leads – and she knows it. There are some of us that are not fooled – and if she thinks she is not playing the race card – she is definitely fooling herself. America needs a strong leader – not someone who is going to win a popularity vote. Just by allowing Oprah to stump for him has convinced me that 1. he himself is playing a race card 2. he needed her popularity to bring his numbers up and 3. he can't win on his own merit, so how will he do with a foreign dictator much less the Republicans in Congress. He hasn't said a word that convinces me he would be a strong and competent leader of a world power.
Oprah's entry onto the political scene with Obams is the most blatantly raciest thing I ever remember seeing her do. She has turned off this viewer.
I was on the fence between Hillary and Edwards, must admit Obama was extremely dissapointing! guess all the orpah hype leaves when oprah does! obama seems to forget what he is saying while he's saying it?? I think they call that " Burn Out" hehe After the last debate, Clinton def has my vote, sorry oprahbamaboy
--------------------------–
CLINTON 2008! Just say " NO" to "O"prahbama
Oprah is viewed by millions of her television followers as having the qualities of a fair journalist – someone brings stories to her viewers in an impartial, objective manner. Her public stumping for Obama has brought that impartiality into doubt and has possible turned off some of her viewers. She is entitled to her beliefs but to thrust them upon others makes her less credible. I doubt it will hurt Obama or Oprah in the long term. What remains to be seen is if it helps.
Oprah made the decision to support Obama as an American citizen but I think she knows she is a lot more than that. She has so much influence, I do not feel she should have spoken out so much about her decision. I have always thought she was motivated racialy about her decisions even on her show. I hope the American people make up their own minds and do not let her influence sway them.
It is ok to support, but making a statement referring to a candidate as : You need a person to tell the truth" is something will harm Oprah in along run when they foind out that Obama may not telling one of the truth. This is a comparison to: Read my lip" of Bush Senior and I did not have sex with that women from Clinton.
Shallow viewers in my opinion. I wouldn't think of not watching a good program because I didn't like the stars choice of political candidate. Why did they tune in at all if they can't respect her rights as an individual? Those who think she supports him just because he's black should examine themselves. I suppose blacks should never support another black person. Ridiculous.
Oprah Winfrey is probably the most materialistic celebrity that walks the streets of this planet.
She can't be half as offended as we are.
James Izzard
They have both lost my vote.
Why does Oprah's support of Barack Obama have to be a race issue? When white celebrities endorse white candidates, it's not a problem – nor should it be. So why is it suddenly a problem for Oprah, who is African-American, to endorse another African-American? Furthermore, Oprah has endorsed many white persons and their causes – not because they are white, but because she is convicted by their purpose and wishes to lend her influence to further what she sees as a noble and worthy cause that will make a difference not only in her life, but in the lives of her many viewers and society at large. Consistent in her approach, she has chosen to use her voice for a cause she believes in, and in this case that advocate (Obama) just so happens to be African-American. Oprah, like every other American citizen, has the right to her political choice and use of her voice, be it by casting her singular vote at the polls or by using her influence to further that candidate's cause as she so chooses. I'm positive she choose to endorse Obama, not because he's black, but because she believes in his vision for America and his ability to execute it if given a proper opportunity. However, if her detractors – be they black or white – want to think her endorsement of Obama is largely because of his race, they are in truth showing themselves to be the shallow, ignorant and racist ones who obviously have not progressed in their thinking any further than their ancestors. Subsequently, they are making a race issue out of it – not Oprah.
and we have a right now to not watch her show as an American citizen...her usage of "American citizen" was her easy way from avoiding CNN's question. i wish all celebs would stay out of politics and stick to helping charities and people or better yet stick to tv and movies.
This post assumes that these "fans" have always been fans of Oprah, and not just newly signed on "trolls" from Fox News, putting up ridiculous, racist garbage. This strike me as hopelessly naive.
Good job CNN. Chase Fox News. We'll see you on the other side.
After the story wtih Obama I will never wath her show again
I am sure that the fans who are 'bashing' Oprah are voting for Hillary!! Get a grip people!
Obama 08
Who's to say these are real Oprah fans anyway? It's possible these are people who didn't like Oprah in the first place. But who really knows only time will tell.
Why aren't white Americans who endorse a candidate questioned about whether they are doing it because of some outdated sense of racial loyalty? It's a double standard. She's said why she chose him as the Candidate she supports and for people to question that is idiotic. Unless you question the support of other people who have worked on other presidential campaigns. If Obama was seeking to be the Black Candidate instead of a Candidate he wouldn't have the momentum he does now. He wouldn't be losing to Senator Clinton among Black Democrats. He's just another Candidate who just happens to have a Black father.
Those people complaining are probably racists themselves. What??? She can't support Obamba BECAUSE he's Black?
If she wanted to support someone just because they're Black, why didn't she support Jessie Jackson, or Al Sharpton?? These people need to step back and take a long, hard, look at themselves.
fire oprah
Oprah is only supporting him cause he's black its true. She can pretend to be offended all she wants but we all know its true.
Barack Obama FELL FROM WHITE LOINS!
No where in the long history of Africa has any Black fell from white loins.
So those who are talking nonsense about 'pitting black against whites' are just showing their usual white racist colors.
Oprah, I appauld you for exercising your right as an American citizen to support the candidate of your choice!!
You, will always have my respect and admiration.
I cannot figure out why Obama or for that matter any of the other Democratic candidates don't come out and say what's on everyone's mind: The country's had 20 years of Bush-Clinton-Bush... Ain't that enough??
When other celebs back politicians, race is not a factor. What a shame! Oprah fans should respect her opinions and ideas and allow her to be an individual. She's not telling anyone how to think, she's just supporting her politician of choice. No one had a problem when George W. Bush appeared on her show back in 2000...
Wow...it took Oprah jumping into Obama's campaign for most folks to realize while she does contribute to society in numerous ways...most of her show's and issues have had white vs. black backsettings. It's disingenious for her to state race had nothing to do with her supporting Obama. (who I like!) But building a media empire without scrutiny is one thing...entering politic's is a different realm...welcome to Politic's 101 Oprah...the more you say you aren't something, the less people believe you.
I've "grown up" along with Oprah Winfrey–but she's had the courage to do it on national television. She has been consistently genuine, real and brave enough to do this out of a sincere desire to share everything she's learned (and unlearned and re-learned) with as many people as she could. Oprah has said from the beginning of her VERY FIRST foray into politics that this was truly personal for her. "Fans" who lacked the capacity to hear and understand her clearly stated reasons for supporting Obama are missing a great deal. Oprah's decision to do so was made after a long and thoughtful process. It is not, nor has it ever been about race. Her references to Dr. King were about hope, opportunity and prosperity...and yes, equality, but only as one element of a much more complex vision. The fans who didn't grasp this and focused on the superficial issue of race are sadly mistaken. If they lose respect or admiration for Oprah due to their own limited capacity to comprehend what she's doing and why, it is they who have lost something precious. Oprah will always have a multitude of fans and followers. They, on the other hand, have lost a wonderful teacher and role model.
Oh my! Oprah had the audacity of hope to endorse Obama? Heretic! PLEEZE! Faux News, Rush and O'Reily have been endorsing Repubs for years. The fact that Oprah wants to endorse someone who seems to genuine has the right wingers panties in knots.
Hmmm... gets a little offended at the notion that her fans think she is supporting racial causes.
I wonder how we ever got that idea?
Was it the school she built in Africa?
(personally why not help Detroit youth instead (you know our people, the ones that care more about video games))
Was it the way she stumps for Obama with a racially charged undertone?
Oprah is a successful American Entertainer and a wonderful person. She has every right to support America's first electable black candidate and she should be strong enough to admit that her motivation is racially biased.
As for losing fans I wouldn't worry about too much about that, she is very entertaining and her show is tops.
I do find it odd that Oprah has been on top for many of presiditial races. Only find that now is the time to back one certain Presidential candidate. Why now? When she could have backed so many others. Dont back a candidate because you want them to be the first, back them because your feeling with this candidate is going to put the US into a better direction.
I'm black. Just to throw it out there. But above that I'm an American citizen. I am intelligent enough to understand that Oprah was talking to American citizens, not just Black Americans. Look at the crowds of the campaign stops for Obama/Oprah and you will see a diverse crowd of Americans. These people who are upset with Oprah probably didn't like her anyway if they are to get so bent of shape over something as basic as a basic right in this country: The right to support any candidate that you so please . We are starting to take politics to personally in this nation. If a woman supports Hillary Clinton, is she being sexist? A man supporting Joe Biden, is he being sexist? A short man supporting Dennis Kucinich, is showing a bias to short people? To answer all of these questions: No. No. And no.
Oprah is intelligent to know that she was talking to all of America, because, if I my stats serve me right, Black people only account for 12% of the population...I'm pretty sure Oprah knows that Obama won't win a national campaign with just the black vote.
Get real people.
Readers, please listen to the message. Oprah is risking her television dynasty to support Senator Obama. She does not have to do this. This is not Black or White. This is about who can reach out to all Americans and lead. It is time for a new direction and Senator Obama has it. Senator Clinton had her day and she and her husband blew it or we would have had a great president in Al Gore. Vice President Gore does not want to be president now if you gave him the job. Now look what we have. Please hear the message and vote for the most qualified individual who can bridge this country together....Senator Barack Obama.
*YAY* Oprah!!!!!!
SO many of us DON'T want Hilliary to run on the ticket and have almost lost faith that there was a chance for Obama, as she is getting paid under the table BIG time to get herself there.
GO Oprah, and thank you SO MUCH for stepping up to put this man who I believe will make a difference for EVERYONE if elected.
Everyone is beginning to see, what they thought in the back of their minds for a very long time, Oprah is not one of us, she is a superpower unto herself, not black or white...she appeals to both demographics, but hardly anyone believes that she isn't pulling the racial card with Obabma, her dream is to use her influence to overcome all boundaries and get the first black president ever elected. this is another selfish Oprah stunt, not for the good of the people,America or Obama...but for Oprah.
PEace
I am totaly disappointed with Oprah along with many of my friends. She may have convinced herself that this is something she needs to do i e supporting Obama. I have noticed her tendency to openly and at times flagarently and obviously featuring blacks and black causes on her show. I happen not to be black, and I am sympathatic to all and all who have or do suffer from racists unfair treatment whether cultural, skin color, sex or gender
At the moment Oprah happens to be a person of interest to me; i will be watching how far out she goes stumping for Obama. She is using her name, face and high visability to influence people who are unaware of just how dangerous this situation is. I,for one, wish people would boycott every thing she is involved with to get her attention and help her to see that her talents and gifts are being misused. She needs to focus on the wonderful projects she does to help people. There are only so many hours in a day, one can only do so much and therefore she needs to get back on track and concentrate of help abused people, educating thousands, giving people an oportunity to be who they can be. Between Oprah and Bill Cosby they can make giant leaps in motivating people: black, white, Indian, American Indian, Orential or underprivalidged. She can get so much more accomplished if she were to concentrate on doing what she does best.
No doubt she needs to realize that this stumping for Obama will cost a very high price. If she knows and continues in the direction she will pay the price for what I see as Oprah cutting her own throat. The ratinngs will drop and it will cost her dearly.
If the almighty Oprah thinks the color of skin should not matter, then why did she even mention Dr. King in her speech? What "dream is she voting into reality"? The dream of a black man being president? If so, then yes, she is supporting Obama because of his skin color. There have been plenty of white candidates she could have supported over the years. Its seems odd that the first time she steps into the political area, is when there is a legit black candidate. Why can't she just admit it? If she thinks America is to dumb to realize this, then she has another thing coming. Just another case of "reverse racism" that is accepted without the blink of an eye in this country.
It's 2007 and this country still has deep racial divide! It's funny how people react when Blacks support Blacks. The tone is to keep quiet and stay in your place, but no one questions when Whites support Whites. I truly feel that we will always have a country of the haves and have nots, and race will always be at the core of our daily lives.
Taking information from the comments section of websites is horrible. The most vile people on this planet use the comment's section to vent. I think people are forgetting something here. OBAMA IS HALF WHITE!!! Which half of him is fighting for which race?
Oprah and Obama, I am so sorry that race can be such an issue for some very ignorant people in our country. When I read these blogs, it doesn't surprise me that some would write what they have on your website. We would like to think that our adult population is just that....adult. But at times it seems otherwise. I for one, could care less what skin color a person has if I deem them a good leader for our country. I respect both Obama and Oprah for what they have done with their lives. I am white, two college degrees, professional, baby boomer, and I totally support Obama. I would suggest ignoring the ignorance that lives in our country.
we woman are suppose to stick together!
I fell Oprah is a person first then a talk show host not the other way round some people feel they own her but she is her own person if there is one thing Oprah cannt be called is a racist she gets it from both sides black say she's not black enough and now she's not white enough. she is human and have a right to her opinion will you stop buying records or watching moving from other celebs who have a diffent opinion. I dont necessarily agree with her choice but that is my opinon and we all no what opinions are liken to.!!!!!!!
Doesn't surprise me. As long as Oprah stuck to light weight subjects that her white audience liked they were ok. The minute she expressed an opinion that showed she wasn't kissing thier butt, they turn on her. Whites folks never surprise me.
I am not surprised by the backlash Oprah is getting.
When a person of Oprah's stature shows support for a viable candidate that happens to be Black it scares people.
Oprah I think you just lost your honorary white woman status. (smile)
I have watched Oprah Winfrey for a long time and have had a great deal of respect for how she conducts her shows and the attitudes she portrays to the public airways. Everyone has a right and responsibility to support their candidate of choice as an American citizen, however, Oprah's circus-like
crusades over the past few weeks has taken her down a completely track. Oprah had the hearts and love of all races, but she has chosen to go backwards down the road to the racism of the ealry 1960s. This is so much beneath her dignity – great to have friends and to support and encourage them, however the remarks at the rallys have greatly disturbed a lot of us – she has more than likely lost her crown! A concerned viewer and fan for many years! Stay true to yourself – but don't allow yourself to be manipulated and used for political gain!
Not a big Oprah fan anyhow but what I'd ask is who in the past has O stumped for like she is for Obama? Anyone?
Anyone who would base their decision to vote for a particular candidate because that candidate is suported by a celebrity is mindless and can't think for themselves.
Yo go Oprah!!! It's not black Vrs. white. Its wrong Vrs. RIGHT!
And you are on the side of the right. I personally thank you for looking out for those who don't have a voice. WE WANT CHANGE!!! And you're helping.
It is very interesting to see Oprah jump in for Obama's support and it is but natural that people think why she is supporting him... but she also should think that she has more white American women as her supportrs and seems to be a good begining as per the gathering numbers
Don't pit blacks against whites Oprah!!
You are a fool and bad for the Democratic PARty!!
CLINTON 08!!!
Yes. Oprah Windbag DOES pit white against Black all day long. Are you surprised?
Frankly, I am surprised Okrah didn't back a potential female president. Are we to believe that the content of Mr. Obama's character alone was the driving force in pushing her into politics?
Perhaps if her recent actions (racially charged comments on radio broadcasts, very charatable actions towards only certain ethnicities) didn't show otherwise her comments would be easier to believe.
Then again, anyone who would allow a person on television to stongly influence who they choose to run this country probably isn't interested in much more than an "I voted" sticker and the satisfaction that comes from doing the same thing a celebrity did.
Note: I love the stickers. Have you noticed they don't hand them out as much as they used to? I mean, I'm sure there are more urgent items on the budget, but how much can they cost? Perhaps they could order in bulk for the next few elections and get bargain pricing.
Obama is black?
So true...Oprah is only backing him because of his race. I used to think she was one of the good ones on tv, but now I am tuned out. If Obama were white, she wouldn't be near him. It is really ashame to see someone become this racist when she has gotten to where she is because others have put race aside. Why exactly does she support Obama? It isn't like others in previous or current presidential races haven't had his same views? She is nothing but a person who wants her own race to be president....and for all the wrong reasons. Truly sad to see her become what she always talks against.
Why must Americans take every ideals has based on racism.Come on! Just because Oprah is on for Obama,doesn't mean she is a racist..I am preety sure she looked out for the best candidate to support nd she found one in Obama;thats all! The major reason why are fans(used to) are angry about her outspokeness for Obama is because they are racist themselves and they do not want a black man in the Presidential seat..Pls America, keep quiet for once and let your citizenry be..Everyone has a right to support or oppose ideals and not every support or opposition is based on race. So let Oprah be!
I don't know how they're pitting white against black. Blacks account for 2% of the population in Iowa, but Obama is polling at around 33% of its caucus goers. Oprah is famous for being mother confessor to white housewives. It looks to me like both these figures bring whites to the table, not drive them away.
I think that Hillary will be an extremely effect President, and I thought that Obama would be an excellent choice as a running mate. Hillary and Obama would have been the winning team; however, after watching Obama attack Hillary and now playing the race card with using Oprah to obtain the votes of the blacks and the women, I hope this will backfire and he loses to Hillary.
I don't understand how a "fan" can suddenly drop Oprah as an icon for choosing to follow her heart and head. Is this not what made Oprah so popular to begin with – standing in opposition to irrational forces? Ask yourselves this: if she wanted Obama to succeed solely because of his race, would she be the woman you were a fan of to begin with? Should black people not openly support Obama for fear of scrutiny of their motives? Should only men support Hillary so that gender is not called into question? I somehow doubt Oprah would risk her career on something she did not truly believe in. Give me a break.
People can be so ignorant. Oprah can support whomever she wants to. Why does this have to be a race issue? I suppose if she supported Huckebee for example she would have been a sell-out? Why can't it just be about Oprah supporting Obama and not Oprah supporting a black man?
Isn't she all about women's power? I would think Oprah be voting for Hilary Clinton, but I am not even from the U.S so what do i know?
What not only upset and alarmed me, but mortified me was the reference Oprah used as Barak being the one who "loves mercy and do justly", a phrase often reserved for Jesus. I find it very offensive that this term was used for MR Obama. There is nothing positive about audacious in this use of the term.
Oprah denies that there is a racial tone to her endorsement of Obama. Her denial is insulting to many because people are not not dumb and stupid to fall for this hyporcitical pretext. Everyone knows that she endorsed Obama because he is black and not because he is the most qualified. Oprah's done with me. I never liked her narcicisstic attitude anyway.
THEIR PROBLEM IS OPRAH PULLING SUPPORTERS FOR OBAMA. TELL US WHAT IF OPRAH IS ENDORSING HILLARY CLINTON THIS ALL ABOUT RACISM.
The people posting these things are obviously right wing nut jobs who are scared to see change in America. What a joke that this is actually being covered by CNN.com. How sad this has become. I am not a democrat nor republican. I can tell you that I believe Obama has the best chance to change America. STOP FUNDING WARS AND START FUNDING EDUCATION!
I don't think that Oprah is going for him because of race and I'm sure everyone is tired of race becoming a factor in everything that goes on today. She has a right to voice her opinion of who she wants in the office just like we do. She's just in the public eye so everything she says will be weighed and possibly held against her. She has never voiced her opinion before so maybe she just really believes in this gentleman. Everyone should let it go. She has her right to speak just like you have the right to stop watching her.
Oprah has done nothing wrong and EVERYTHING RIGHT! This is not about race, this is about America. Not black,
white, yellow, brown or any other color for that matter. We need something new and no matter
what your race, color or creed you have to realize what we are about to experience is something fresh and unique.
To hell with old politics!
For those of you that are opposing Obama you must admit if you didn't know he was black you would find his words
refreshing, new ideas, honesty come on people! Everyone with negative opinions of Obama
do me one favor (not that you owe it to me, but you owe it to yourself,you owe it to your childen, my children, America!)
close your eyes and try just try to HEAR & LISTEN to this brilliant man with fresh ideas! DO NOT think of color
for once. Tell me you do not hear encouraging words! If you say no or are not able to close
your eyes and put race aside for once there is no hope for you or OUR children. Very sad!
because whether you admit it or not we need change and OBAMA is "THE ONE."
I would like to say that i too am disappointed that oprah decided to get into politics and stump for obama. She was always stumping for what women could accomplish if they tried hard enough and when it was time to have a woman president she goes for obama. He does not have the experience, and the risk of having republicans win and do more damage to your country is unthinkable. It affects all countries. hillary and bill are loved and respected around the world if not in your own country , and she would have a better chance at fixing problems that bush has done. sincerely a former oprah fan from canada
With Oprah Money, She need not to concern about certain comments about her decision to support the candidate of her choice
It's sad that people would automatically assume that Oprah is supporting Mr. Obama because he's black. How come no one ever asked if Chuck Norris is supporting Mr. Huckabee because he's white?
She gets a little...'offended', for some to think she would do this because of Obama's skin color??????
Excuse me, but if anyone in the world thinks the big "O" would endorse a white guy with as little experience as Obama is out there, I have a WHOLE slew of bridges to sell them.
I worried about this same issue with Oprah's new movie, too...that it may be "pitting blacks against whites".
I feel people are being ridiculously petty about this. Oprah has the right to support whomever she wants. We ALL have the right to support the candidate of our choice. A person is not defined by who they vote for or support.
Hi,
I am not a US resident or citizen. However the first thought that cross my mind was Oprah is supporting Obama because he is black, she is black. But if she has gone on the campaign trail with Hilary Clinton, then she would be accused of supporting Hilary because they are both women. Whoever she supports, is a 'no win' situation for Oprah.
However my gut feel is still that the color of the skin has a lot to do with what Miss Oprah has done and she may have lost quite a few of her loyal audiences.
What did you expect, Opie and Oprah aren't that far apart. Way to go girl, between you and Hillary things are only getting better for the other candidates.
Go Oprah! Go Obama!
I know I am not surprised about the backlash Oprah is receiving.
They thought Oprah was an honorary white woman. She made them feel all warm and fuzzy.
I have read the posts on Oprah's website they are accusing her of being racist, a traitor, they are never going to watch her show again.
oba ma didnt hold his hand to his heart when saying pledge of the united states when hilery and other cantidates did , yes i am disoppointed in oprha
The few times I've tuned into her show the live audience is primarily white woman, and her guests are primarily black. The fact that she has never come out for a White candidate, is telling . She's either a liar or in denial, that she is supporting him in spite of his color. Puh-leeze!
Moderators from Oprah's Blogs have removed ALL the comments which state something negative about her Obama "Help". I think this have an answer of its own.
I bet that most of the people who are offended are white
Oprah is supporting Barak Obama, because it is good for her, not because she cares about our country. The idea that just because Oprah tells people to vote for a particular candidate, means we will follow her like sheep...that is the height of arrogance. Obama has no experience and no electability...Hillary Cinton has both...that's why she is winning 2-1 in the national polls, and that is why she should and will win.
CNN,
Put a suck it in! Oprah has millions of viewer, a few comments from a hand full of people is now "a backlash." You (CNN) sure know how to define backlash.
I will no longer watch her, I enjoyed her till now, she is dealing the race card now....Shame on her. I have lost all respect for her
I'm terribly disappointed in Oprah's supporting this candidate. I will not watch or support her show again. I've lost all faith in what I thought she stood for!
Well, she hit the nail on the head, maybe it will sink in:that's all she really is, just another American citizen. Not all dat...
I am an Oprah Winfrey fan. I may not agree with her choice for politicians, but it won't cause me to stop watching her show. This is America, right? Her support of Obama is no different than any other Hollywood actor supporting their favorite politician. But I expected this. It seems people are just waiting for Oprah to fail. To Oprah: Do you, girl!
I really like Oprah. However anyone who votes for Obama because Oprah (or anyone else)endorses them is not thinking clearly. Think for yourself.
Okrah has the right to support anyone she chooses and you have the right not to watch Okrah's show.
The very thought of Oprah not being able to transcend little self of supporting her own race and turning around and saying that it is nothing to do with the race, is a big turn off. Many of us are turned off by her smallness.
Oprah has indeed chosen to back a candidate based on his race... it certainly could not be for his experience. He has even finished his first term as senator... a promise he made when elected. If he can't keep that promise, I have a lot of doubt about his keeping any other promises he will make in the future.
Oprah has the right to support whoever she wants to support. She & Obama have much in common in the way they present themselves – emphasizing hope & possibility – that goes beyond skin color. I don't often watch her show, but I'm certainly not offended that she has political opinions.
This is the slippery slope that Obama as well as Oprah has to navigate. Reach out too far to black voters and whites will be scared of some perceived backlash by blacks(totally ridiculous)if her wins. Don't bend over backwards for black voters and they'll say you're a sellout and just interested in their vote and not their issues.
When will the day come that we put aside all of this bull*/*& and vote on the persons politics. Would the naysayers feel the same way if she had backed Hillary? Probably not.
It is unfortunate that Oprah is supposed to be unable to throw in her support for a politician whereas everyone else in America including business owners and other figures can do the same. What is America coming to when popularity or position suddenly removes someones rights as an American. Did people complain when she was marketing books or DVDs or other things? But I guess those were okay because they weren't partisan.
Oprah like myself looks past the color of ones skin to determine the content of their character. As a black women, I don't watch the Oprah show because I have other choices nor would I give my vote to Obama because his Mama is white and daddy is black. Thank God for my black uneducated parents that never taught me the judge one on race. I guess they knew this day would come.
Oprah,from her all her comments,should BE a politian...She makes it a "race" issue and then makes the comment, that she would not vote for somebody JUST because the color of their skin...I won't watch her show anymore...I see enough political ads on TV
I am white, and I think Obama is the best choice. However not a very smart move on Oprah's side
Bob
Obama clearly zinged the hell out of clinton in this last debate. Gee I wonder why we have a CNN story against Oprah. Nicely played CNN.
Oh my god! There are people in an internet forum that have a negative opinion about something! Did anyone write an angry letter to the editorial page of a newspaper this week about something related to the primaries? Maybe that should go on the front page of the CNN website. Seriously, this is pretty weak sauce, guys.
It appears that not only do racists watch Oprah, they also have the ability to post on her web site to whine. Would you like some cheese with that?
Sooooo, it's ok for has-been wrestlers and let's not forget Walker himself (Chuck Norris) to vouch for Huckabee, who is white. But it's not ok for a black celeb to vouch for who she likes?? America has not changed a bit.
of course it's an "african american" supporting another. there will never be true equality until blacks can look beyone the racial picture and support the best candidate. by the way, i'm white and am leaning toward obama. he seems to have a new vision – idealistic as it may be, it's refreshing.
Oprah could not have said it any better. If she feels passion about anything she has her OWN mind to voice her PERSONAL opinion. This backlash is not from someone with critical thinking skills. One of the commenters name is "rednecky" what does that tell you!!!!
As a daytime television host, her audience base likely contains a large number of Rebpublican stay-at-home moms. As polarizing as party affiliation can be, I'd be surprised if she didn't alienate a significant percentage of her viewers by the mere fact Obama is a Democrat.
The words are 'SCATHINGLY REBUKED' for her transparent use of her power.
The actions are 'PATENTLY OBVIOUS' to even the man on the street.
The speeches are 'POWERFULLY SEDUCTIVE' to all but the political veterans.
The dreams are 'INEVITABLY INDESTRUCTIBLE', yes, even for this.
What evil lurks in the souls of this new world order's dis-gendered conspiracies? Alas, this author knows not.
When you go to the Oprah message boards you can clearly see that most of the negative backlash is coming from people who signed up to the board in the last couple of days. It calls into question whether these disgruntled posts are actually coming from fans.
Oh, this is classic. I have been waiting for this moment for quite some time. It is no secret to many African Americans that most White Oprah lovers don't mind loving her because she neutralizes her ethnicity so well. The very moment that she even expresses pride in her race (via massive support for a Black presidential hopeful) all heck breaks loose. It doesn't matter that she simply believes in his message. What matters is that she believes in a Black man's message, thus shining a light on her own blackness. Being neutral to one's race somehow makes others feel comfortable about their own. Now that the world knows Oprah is Black, they can't deal with it. This is Oprah's Black moment. And fyi, I don't believe for a second that most of those comments on her website are coming from her fans. I do believe that this is a very nasty presidential race and some of those comments are being posted by Democrat and Republican presidential hopefuls.
CNN this is terrible news. I thought you had journalist integrity. Oh thats right you are going to sway people any way you can. Hopefully the next zing from the Senator from Illinois will be directed towards you.
The appeal of Obama and Oprah's support for him is transparently racial when they both affect their unnatural Southern black accents to pander to a gaggle of girlfriends in South Carolina. She's lost some serious cred and so has he. It's a lose-lose and a dumb political ploy, especially because he cannot be elected in the general and he knows it.
This is absolutely preposterous.
Let me explain this: CNN.com is a news organization available world-wide.
Here, it is reporting the comments of a few forum posters and reporting it as news, as though a major movement has resulted from Oprah campaigning for Obama.
One person writes that she is "tuned out" and CNN makes it into a trend.
Absurd. And irresponsible.
(I am voting for Clinton, in case anyone was wondering).
The biggests misconception about all of this Obama/Oprah hooplah is that 1. Oprah is supporting Obama because he is black, when numerous other black men AND black women have ran for office in the past 2. that Obama couldn't attract those kinds of crowds when in fact he pulled in 20 thousand in other states before Oprah came along. I hope once the smoke clears people will realize both of these things.
OPRAH WINFREY IS SUPPORTING BARACK OBAMA BECAUSE HE IS BLACK. 'A NEW VISION FOR AMERICA?' EVERYONE KNOWS THAT IF BARACK WAS A WHITE MAN, OPRAH WOULD NOT BE SUPPORTING HIM. I GUESS THE WORD IS 'OFFENDED' WHEN A RACIST GETS CALLED OUT.
Oprah – you go girl, can't hurt your rating$$
well OPRAH HAS DONE NO WRONG, ITS A MATTER OF CHOICE , SHE CHOOSES OBAMA... I DONT SEE A PROBLEM IN THAT.
DR. KING 1963 SAID he said we should be judged by the content of our character not the color of their skin."
THANKS
OBAMA 4 PRESIDENT 08
I've been trying to decide who I would want to see in office, now that Oprah has thrown in her hat for Obama, I'm for Hillary Clinton. It was very noticeable that Oprah is trying to play the "black card" once again and place a wedge between the blacks and whites..... Oprah, go back to LA.
What's going to happen if he does become pres, then some idoit attempts to or succeeds in assassinating him. This could trigger a riot of a large scale.
I support Oprah's decision. Go Obama!
Yes Oprah, as an American citizen you Do have the right; however, if to say "Dr. King dreamed the dream, we get to vote that dream into reality." isn't pitting black/white, then what is?
gee some people are finally getting it! Oprah's an American that prefers to support black African children when white Applachian children need the help.Same goes for Americans that adopt Asians what about black American babies. Dud
I fail to see why Streisand can support Hillary and not get called sexist and racist for endorsing a white woman, yet some attack Oprah as racist for supporting Obama.
I don't think Oprah is racist....remember, she did not support Jesse Jackson years ago. I listened to her speak at the Verizon Center in NH last Sunday and her comments were sincere, thoughtful and powerful. She decided to step up and endorse who she thinks is the strongest, best, most intelligent, competent candidate who can help bring this country together again and get it on a better track for all Americans. The repeated mismanagement, policy failures, fiscal mismanagement and corruption, Iraq lies, etc. have prompted millions and millions of citizens, like Oprah, to say enough is enough. It's time for a fundamental change in attitude, priorities and approaches.
I think CNN throws this out there to attempt to discredit Oprahs support. What a weak article. Thats like referencing bloggers. Lets see more stories on the crack dealers Rudy hires for his staff since hes so tough on crime.
I will never watch Oprah's show again. Obama cannot and will not win the Democratic nomination this time, and Oprah is merely making it harder for Hillary to win the general election. I am furious with Oprah! Hillary is the candidate with the experience to be a great president. It is not Obama's time.
I think it's disgusting when celebrities use their celebrity to support political candidates. They shouldn't try to influence voters in their belief system when lets face it, most celebrities seem to have the morals and values of an alley cat. I think much of Hollywood has helped to foster a breakdown in American society and values. It's unfortunate that the part of America that does actually vote and pay attention to the issues and not vote strictly by party affiliation have to mitigate the votes that the Oprah's of the world cause by people who know nothing of the issues and the voting history of the candidates.
The Democrats need to stop relying on celebrity endorsers and get a party-line that they can all support. By using celebrity it just makes me think they don't have a clear message or vision to bring to the American people. Why can't they stand by themselves? Why do they need to have support from someone whose opinion is not anymore valuable than mine other than the fact that millions people know who they are?
The Republicans generally have a clear message and aren't all over the board. With the Democrats there are too many different ideas and the factions can't agree and don't want to compromise. Although I don't agree with the Republicans most of the time at least they give me a clear vision and the different factions seem to be able to work together when push comes to shove. I'd really like to see the Dems get it together this year and so would most of America I think, but not if they can't show me how middle class America is going to benefit. Oprah has millions, I need to live on $50,000 a year.
Oprah did the right thing by standing up at this critical moment. I even admire and respect her more for stepping out of her comfort zone to do this. The most ludicrous insinuation against her action is the argument that she did it because she was black and that she is a racist. I have seen a lot of white celebrities and personalities come out for other candidates, no one has complained about that.... yet she is the one been called a racist.
How can Winfrey's support of Barack Obama be called racial considering Obama's mother is a white american?
Ohrah should realize that it's Obama who's running. If she wants to run she should say so and finance her own run.
I wonder if she would have been backing john Edwards, would here web site been the same. Welcome to the real America Oprah. You give them cars, they love it. Fix there homes, your wonderful. But stand for someone you think is the right person that happens to be black, and Wham! They show there true colors. RedNeck
Personally, I do not understand why Oprah's fans are making such a deal about this. Oprah has a personal right to speak out in politics. I mean I'm personally satisfied that Oprah finally feels she has someone she can back for the White House and this being her first time means a lot to her. Again, race should not be a factor and I am ashamed some of her fans/ex-fans would think such an awful notion. Why does it always lead to that? America is better than that.
CNN, would you please quit your nonsense. Do you know how many white people support white people? Just stop you're stupid journalism! This is hardly a backlash.
Ask yourself and Oprah Winfrey this question. If Barack Obama wasn't black, same guy, just any other race, would she still support him, or someone else. Its easy to answer. She wouldn't vote for someone with his level of political experiance for President. Its simple........its because he is black. Lets face it folks, its black vs. white.
I find that Oprah's support of Obama is like her sycophantic passion for Will Smith and Denzel Washington, racist, racist, racist. Her rabble rousing last weekend was an obvious ploy to get black women to drop their support of Hillary, based on common sense and practicality, and switch to Obama, based on unthinking racist passion.
I am not influenced or impressed by her strong and, I think, too early, 'endoresement' of any candidate!
Not regarding politics, but it concerns me that I rarely see a conviction of Christian faith. I do enjoy most of her informative shows; but, don't think she's much informed regarding political matters, at all!
I watched the first Oprah/Obama speech. I was not an Obama Fan,however, I was interested in hearing what they had to say. Honestly, I was highly disappointed. Oprah seemed out of character. They both sounded like they were imitating a preacher/MLK style. When Obama finally approached and talked about Oprah, he stumbled a lot and said some very strange comments. I was not impressed at all. When Obama prepares a speech or is well-practiced on a topic, he can deliver well (although he sounds like a preacher). When he is not prepared with a topic or is expected to deliver something with sincerity, he stumbles while sounding like a frightened first-time speaker.
I guess if she was supporting Hilary, she would still catch flack and be accused of supporting her because she's a woman. Oprah can not when, but we know the Billion dollar babe could care less about what some fans feel about her political views.
Oprah saying that her support to Obama is not a race issue is like hearing Mark Furman says he is not a racist during the OJ trial. What is funny is how she tried to manipulate her statement using Martin Luther king’s message and what she meant by “WE”. It is amazing how blacks in this country believe that ever white is a racist and that a black racist does not exist.
Only ones upset are the hopeless Clinton supporters.
Oprah and Obama, they make a good pair. Both are double zeros.....
You cannot win. So get lost
If she does it as an American citizen, she should not be on TV next to him. How come she starts supporting a candidate only this time and he happens to be black???
the only country in the world that would act this way..
Wardrobe Malfunction!
I support Oprah's decision to stump for Senator Obama. I also agree with her choice. Congrats Oprah – I have much more respect for you as an American citizen now.
I don't think that Oprah's open involvement in the Obama campaign is displaying a previously unbiased racial affiliation. I do not wish to detract from the good work that she has done and continues to do but she is definitely biased and has always been so.
I was an Obama supporter and as such did not consider him as a BLACK canditate. Oprah has managed to promote him in this light alone which does him an injustice. Maybe she has done more harm that good!!
OPRAH CANNAT BE TRUSTED IN CHOOSING A CANDIDATE FOR PRESIDENT AS SHE FAILED MISERABLY IN CHOOSIHG THE RIGHT OFFICIAL TO RUN HER SCHOOL WHICH IS NOW A CENTER OF SEXUAL ABUSE INVESTIGATION
A review of the postings on the Oprah site looks more like a blitz by the GOP than the reaction of regular website visitors. The race angle is totally alien to the usual website dialogue and makes me believe this too is another election "dirty trick". While I'm sure some fans are disappointed that Oprah is not supporting their candidate, the level of vitriol is out-of-bounds. I think a good journalist could probably find some interesting links, similar to the bombardment of Wikipedia by professional politicos and lobbyists.
The clinton supporters would write their hate on anyone who supported Obama regardless of who they were. This is a bunch of hypocracy at its best, and really is not news. Shame.
I find it interesting that Oprah's fans who are not supporting her freedom to endorse Obama are basing it on race. If she chose to endorse John Edwards or Hillary Clinton, I would bet my life these same fans would not speak a word. Zilch. Let the woman who has transformed American daytime television and how women view themselves, endorse whomever she wants for cryin' out loud: "he way she stumped for Obama, they say, seemed to pit white against black." Seriously? So, by that flawed logic, ANY PERSON WHO supports Obama is "pit[ting] white against black." How immature and judgmental.
We have had other African Americans run for president, Al Sharpten and Jesse Jackson and Oprah did not endorse these candidates. Before people judge her, they need to look at her record.
People need to get over themselves... she has every right in the world to back whomever she wants. He is an extremely viable candidate.
Watching her show you can assume her fan base could be a conservative type. These may be the dissatisfied fans who would never like to see Oprah take sides on political issues, expecially againt their own agendas.
Tossing out an ambiguously racist story and then not allowing comments. What gives?
I,m not that great of a fan of Oprah like my wife is, but where were those anti what ever fans when Oprah supported the WHITE Clintons. Come on to hell with the RACE crap. You vote for who ever you want.
No fan of Oprah's would actually tell her what do to
I'm not a conspiracy theorist, but any one can go onto Oprah's web site, like I am on yours, and post a comment. As far as I know, there is no ID check or prerequisite that determines if a post is from a "real" Oprah fan. Given that, I don’t put much faith in a “poll” of commentary on Oprah’s site or any site for that matter, including this one. These things are anonymous. I could be black, white, or purple. I could be a Republican or Democrat. The fact is you wouldn’t know and you don’t know my motivation. So, the question is, why trust these posts as being newsworthy? Just because it’s on the web doesn’t make it honest or trustworthy.
I wonder if Obama sold her any drugs? VOTE CLINTON!
People just need to grow up. If anything Oprah's so-called "fans" are making this a black vs. white thing, because they know good and well if she was campaigning with a white person they wouldn't have a problem with it. So just grow up people, and Oprah I am one of your true fans, and I will also be voting for Obama!
It isn't very insightful to see this as a blacks vs whites issue. The candidates are all Democrats and basically on the same side. They are just pointing out their differences and sharpening each other.
She and other celebrities have no business doing any of these things. It is nice to support someone and believe in that person but in no way shape or form because celebrities have no qualification about politics nor are they smarter about politics that John or Jane Doe on the street. I hate such stupid acts from these people.
I have to agree with Oprah Winfrey here. If a candidate is otherwise qualified, I think it is perfectly reasonable to favor that candidate because he or she "looks like you". All of us want to see ourselves represented in leadership roles, and the opportunity to make history further justifies her choice.
BS, I say. Oprah is as hypocrite as any person in the entertainment industry. They talk on both sides of their mouths. She should just admit she supports Obama because he is Black and that he is an influential figure rather than defend it as if "she is offended."
I'm glad her fans aren't so quick to jump on the bandwagon. This wouldn't be the first time Oprah felt compelled to promote someone. Remember James Frey? She believed in him and his word to the point of defending him publicly. Her instincts were wrong then and they're wrong now.
Oprah has the right of every American citizen. She is trying to leverage her fame, and the challenge she will have is that every American citizen that brought her that fame has the same rights she has and those rights include to not support her. There are often two sides to a double edged sword. Instead of investing in the education of South Africa and simultaneously supporting Barak Obama, maybe she should focus her energies and fame on supporting the american education system and the long term cause of her country. Oprahs value system seems to not be consistent with the fans that brought her the fame she enjoys today. It seems her "base" is not going to follow her. I believe Obama is a good man with a strong intellectual capacity. He just lacks the experience that this country needs to fix 8 years of pillage and poor management. This country needs an experienced leader to clean up the huge mess that the current administration is leaving behind. Of the mess we know about its really bad, imagine how bad the things are that we dont know about. I hope Obama can become a VP and start to gain the experience that he would need to lead this country, but I dont believe now is the time. Our country has been under siege for 8 years.
Interesting she's never supported a candidate until now and that candidate happens to be black. She can say whatever she wants, but I think the issue is clearly black and white. It seems Oprah has taken a step backward in the fight for understanding in a world of difference.
Wow, people that think she is "pitting white against black" blatantly show their ignorance and their misunderstanding of the message she is ATTEMPTING to convey by using Dr. King's words. These idiots STILL don't get it? Absolutely pathetic.
I think she is preaching blacks against white or vise verse!
White people are funny. When Oprah was giving away cars she was sent from heaven by GOD. Now that she wants to support a black man, she is pitting blacks against whites. Boy white pople are something.
Dr King's dream was not blacks versus whites. It was a dream that all God's children regardless of color could rise up and be equals. An Obama administration would be huge indication of equality among the races. Don't make this into something its not.
So should Oprah have supported Clinton, would she be a feminist? Like any other American, she has a choice, and people always have something to say whichever way one does anything in this world. Well, Oprah has accomplished so much in her life that some of those complaining about petty colour issues will not accomplish even if they live for 400 years like in biblical times. Some people need to sit down, take a walk and reflect, because some humans reflect too little and too fast.
Oprah also said she never had felt the way shes feels about Obama about any other politician, Why? is that 1 reason and 1 reason only because he is black. I have watched Oprahs show for years and she has made many racist comments and showed racial undertones on many shows. Lets see she said the whites were not doing enough to help the blacks in the Katrina storm because we did not care because those towns were mostly black so she sent a ton of her own money there and screamed out over and over for us to donate. We do not even see her mention the floods that just hit us here in Washington State that were just as bad as in Louisiana. We don't see her doing a show saying the blacks just aren't helping us poor white folks up here and why is that because this area is mostly whites, If this area was mostly blacks she would be screaming again how us whites aren't doing enough for her blacks. Sorry to say this is going to blow up in her face and in the long run hurt Obama. I for one was still undecided now I am sure I will not vote for him nor ever watch her show again
I'm supporting Hillary, but I sure like having Oprah on our side. I would have less respect for her if she didn't follow her convictions and take a position. She is Oprah for crying out loud.
Oprah says
"I made the decision that I have the right to do it as an American citizen,"
We all know she has the RIGHT but it does not make it RIGHT
Seems strange to me that she has never ever been involved in politics until an African American is running for 2008. What about those in the past that she voted for? Where was she then?
Oprah, you are certainly within your rights to support anyone you choose,
especially someone as intelligent and eminently qualified as Barack Obama.
If you supported Hillary, would people say, "you're just supporting her because she's a white woman"?
I don't think so.
Bye, Bye Oprah Let me know how much your 52 room mansion will be on sale for as we don't like when TV stars and politics get together. You made your choice, now I will make mine. I have 270 channels and I can sure find something else to watch.
I have admired Oprah as a steward for women's rights and an advocate for educating young women, thus far. While Hillary might not be her candidate of choice, her deciding to back Sen. Obama has caused me to loose all respect for her. She has forever been an advocate for woman and women's education and now thru her endorsement of Sen. Obama she suggests that a woman can't be President. I hate to say it, but I'm no longer an Oprah fan. You can't stand for something all your life and then change at the last minute and if you do what does that say about you and your character?
I too was offended by both Oprah's and Obama's tone – they suddenly sounded different, very casual, and I apologize for sounding racist, but – they both sounded very "black" very southern, not like they normally sound.
I want to think that Oprah supports Obama because he is the best candidate, but I seriously doubt it or she would have quoted smething other than Martin Luther King or added someone else.I don't think she has fooled any women. Women think for themselves and don't need her to tell them the best candidate no matter how much she supports him. I personally like Obama Barak but not because Oprah tells me to like him and vote for him. We are too tied into celebrities like Paris Hilton and Brittnay Spears who offer the world nothing.Oprah can offer nuch nore but she needs to stay out of politics except on her own persnal level.We need to listen to more academics with knowledge and not just affection for a canddate..Having money and celebrity does not make one an expert on who is best qualified for president. What is she basing her selection on? Does she have good grounds to stand on other than he is a new face, black and someone different but with little experience.Is she willing to have him elected just because he is black even though he has little experience in world affairs and the federal government. Celebrities have a right to support who they want and speak out but not to tell me to think about voting for a candidate just because they think he is the best candidate.Because they have money, they can go where people will listen to them, right or wrong.
Oprah does a good job as a television host and she should stay in that slot.
Oprah should defintely be admired for the tremendous accomplishments she has achieved. HOWEVER adoring fans should not just blindly assume that Oprah never makes mistakes too (despite all of her resources and staff at her disposal). Indeed she just did an interview about the Dorm Matron who was arrested for abusing the girls at her School in South Africa, and she felt responsible for the mistake of not doing a more thorough background check. She has also admitted that she made a mistake about the con artist she promoted for her Book Club – James Frey "A Million Little Pieces". And she apparently didn't feel it was necessary to look into the qualifications of Dr. Jan Adams (or his past) – tragically the plastic surgeon of Kanye West's mother
Now I'm so very disappointed and dismayed by the turn of events which has seemingly befallen the Democratic process. I was personally blessed to have been touched by both John F. Kennedy's stirring vision for America in 1960 "Ask not what your country can do for you – ask what you can do for your country" AND then again in 1963 by Dr. Martin Luther King Jrs resounding words of hope and inspiration "I HAVE A DREAM – that one day this nation will rise up and live out the true meaning of its creed: 'We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men (and women) are created equal.' I HAVE A DREAM – that my four little children will one day live in a nation where they will not be judged by the color of their skin but by the content of their character."
Have these ringing words of profound vision and deep hope truly ceased to reverberate across Our Great Nation?
To think that OW is not supporting Obama for skin color is just ridiculous. What I wait to hear is how she differntiates Clinton to Obama. She is as much of an African-American as a woman and yes the female candidate is **far** more qualified. Come 'on Oprah - stop playing your audience as a given.
Would we be having this conversation if it were a white celebrity show host supporting a white candidate?
Ms. Winfrey has every right to endorse a candidate ... however, the way she went about it was very tasteless. I will not buy any of her products, suggested products, or watch her show for 2008 because of her heavy-handed and thinly veiled racist approach to politics.
Oprah should stay out of the political arena. She has done a disservice to the voters by injecting her her divisive black vs. white views and no matter how much she protests, that's exactly what she did. No votes for her, no votes for him from this family who will vote for a Democrat, but not for him. Too much baggage!
In reference to Oprah for Obama.
If the narrowminded public want to percieve this as a black & white issue then it's not Oprah making it a black & white issue, it's already a black & white issue when Obama entered the presidential race. But I thought it is about the issues. I'm sure Oprah would not endorse a candidate if she felt they weren't qualified. WAKE UP AMERICA
we need to set aside black and white and concentrate ON THE ISSUES like health care, Iraq, Iran, Putin, Afganistan, Al Quaida, and Pakistan. These are far more troubling than black and white.
"She has crossed a line and lost my trust completely."
You know, once a person puts their trust in ANYONE on television, they're bound to be disappointed. There was a time when you could trust your network news anchor but now anyone on TV is just another talking head.
i took a look at the Oprah forums, and i'm really not sure how a group of Ron Paul and Hillary Clinton trolls constitutes a "backlash".
you go oprah!!! feel that black pride we got girl!
I don't think she's surprised one bit that operatives for other candidates took the opportunity to comment anonymously on her web site.
Clinton News Network (CNN). We as viewers have lost all confidence in your reporting! Close shop CNN and go home. You're no longer a news network!!!
Sure she supported Obama because they share the same skin color. Let's face it, if he wasn't running, she would have thrown her support to Clinton, because they're both women of power. I would imagine that Oprah actually had a tough choice in deciding which of the two she would support.
What was Luther's dream again? How does it have anything to do with how Oprah picks her candidate? The fact that she has focused on Luther's dream proves that she supports Obama because he is black. I support Obama because he is the only candidate with a wee bit of integrity. Nothing more. I actually would not have cared if he was purple and had 3 heads. I think Luther wanted us to forget the race issue completely. But no one, I mean NO ONE seems to be able to do so, including Oprah.
Oprahs intentions are very clear , she'll make a stand for what she Believes in, and even if she wont admit it, this is a Racial Stand for Her. Shes committed to bettering conditions for the Black race, Because shes Black , no one can condem her for that.But I Think, it will work aganist Obamas Chances of winning As well it Should , simply because this country is not just Black , but multi racial.
"One Nation Under GOD, INDIVISABLE, with Liberty, and Justice For ALL".
yes oprah you have the right as an american to do and say as you please
so do all of you ex fans of which i am now one. you see oprah we all have rights here's hoping obama gets the nom. so rudy waltzes into the white house with all of the dems ou have cut off
i believe, eventhough it was her personal decision, but with her show and the kind of people it attracts from walks of life,her politics in the open would go a long way to hurt her creditability and her show. wrong move.. oprah.. wrong move
Oprah wasn't pitting white vs. black, that's outlandish. Even laughable. She spoke repeatedly about how she is supporting Barack Obama precisely BECAUSE he will bring our country together–NOT divide it. Anyone who didn't get that message, or anyone who couldn't get that message–I think that suggests more about that person than it does about Oprah. Good for Oprah for having the courage to express herself. Maybe she lost a couple old fans–but she also gained some new ones! I'm definitely voting Obama in 08.
Would Oprah ever endorse a white candidate with this amount of fervor? No, and everyone knows it except maybe her. I don't think she probably even realizes it, it's probably subconscious. For Oprah to say that race doesn't color her views is disingenuous.
I would bet money that some of the people protesting Oprah's political role are Hillary supporters that see the writing on the wall!
In this great country of ours, we ALL have a right to our political views.
Oprah did what she felt to be her Civic Duty and many of us are so glad she did!
Politics-as-usual are OVER in this country!
Oprah, If race is not a factor then do not bring it up; even on your show.
Oprah has cultivated a reputation as a non-controversial figure with a universal appeal. Endorsing a political candidate, regardless of how putatively "non-polarizing," is an alienating act. Oprah's criticism stems, first and foremost, from this fact- not from a racial divide- and she is pretty stupid for not realizing this.
Yesterday CNN reported Oprah Winfey has not supported a Presidential candidate until this year. Oprah is now supporting, endorsing, and campaigning for Barak Obama.
Has Ms. Winfey chosen this election to be active in the political process because she is passionate about the issues?
Or because of the color of Barak Obama's skin?
It's the skin. Shame on Oprah for being a racist.
Oprah should not have been involved so publicly for Obama and then deny race was an issue. I'm pretty sure that Obama being black had something to do with it. I like the guy and am a registered Democrat as well. I'm still deciding on whether to vote for him or Clinton. However, Miss Winfrey should not treat us like we are blind and that we cannot see her transparent partisanship. To endorse and then invoke one of the most influential American Civil Rights leaders during her speeches, and then say it's not race related? Yeah, you keep telling yourself that Oprah. I'm neither white nor black; I am yellow by the way.
I stopped watching Oprah years ago, something about her, her program and the way she promoted things just didn’t sit right. I guess her true colors are now coming out and honestly I could careless about what color she is. I do believe she has generated a lot of hate and animosity over the years, but you really have to look through the façade to see it.
I think it's clear that Oprah wants to decide this race for the presidency along racial lines and thinks she can buy a win for Barak though her fan base. I used to be one, but you can count me out. Oprah will do better to stick to entertaining.
People make this threat with all competitions involving televion. If anybody's ever visited the message boards for American Idol, Dancing With The Stars, and America's Got Talent, people threaten to stop watching all the time yet never do. The fact that people are VISITING HER WEBSITE rather than just turning off the show demonstrates their a level of connectedness that isn't going to be severed because they and Oprah are supporting different candidates in the next election. And the lack of change in ratings will bear this out – guaranteed.
"I made the decision that I have the right to do it as an American citizen," she said.
. . .and her viewers similarly exercised their right to change the channel. Fair enough.
oprah a woman with no husband or children giving people family advice.
she's not qualified. she's even less qualified to be giving political advice.
need to go back to operating the "OPRAH CULT".
Oprah, just stick to your talk show and leave politics alone. We are sick and tired of your irrelevant jabbering.
Yeah I'm sure that the one serious candidate who is black caused Oprah to break her political silence just because his values are different from everyone else...when they really aren't. Give me a break.
This is hardly news worthy. Those comments on her site were mostly likely "hired coments" and not an accurate reflection of her fanbase. See if her ratings slump, then maybe this will be news worthy.
Oprah is a role model to millions of youth across the word. She should guard against uttering speeches that will make people see her as being a racial bigot.
SAD DAY WHEN A CANDIDATE HAS TO GRAP OPRAH FOR VOTES LOL THIS IS A CLASSIC AMERICAN SALE OUT CASE IF IF HAVE EVER SEEN ONE. VOTE NO ON OBAMA AN OPRAH YOUR MONEY WILL BE USELESS.... IN THIS PEOPLES ELECTIONS GO AN CLEAN UP THE MESS YOU MADE WITH THAT SCHOOL IN AFRICA THAT AMERICANS COULD HAVE USED AT HOME AN YOU WANT SOME ONE TO PRESIDENT OF AMERICA OF AFRICA OR IS IT THAT JUST WHERE BRARACK'S DAD IS FROM UMMMMMMMMMMMMM ????????? NO HE IS NOT A BLACK MAN QUIT INSULTING OUR INTELECT BLACK AMERICANS THE SONS OF SLAVES ARE NOT LISTNING..
Of course Oprah campaigning with Obama has racial undertones. If she campaigned with Hillary, people would be souding off that she were being sexist...
I am white. And I do not feel that, by supporting a black man, O has shunned white people. Obama wants all people to have healthcare, not just black folks. I may be naive, having been raised (albeit in Maine, 98% white) to see racial stereotypes as a thing of the past. Can Oprah be a voter first, and a black woman second?
Bravo for Oprah ! I truly hope Obama wins! After all the scandals with the Clintons, its hard to believe that people keep going back to the same old snake pit!!!!
Yes, I was worried that this was going to make Obama a "black candidate" as opposed to a candidate who happens to be black.
As of now, Hillary is doing a better job maintaining the "I am not running as a woman."
Either way, I'm for Dennis. (and it's not just because he'd be the first elf as president, I look at the issues!)
Oprah has not voted in a presidental primary since 1988. So for 20 years, no one has been worthy of her support? Why? Race? I have nothing against Obama but I find it hard to vote for the Hollywood Rock Star. He would do better to separate himself from the fruits and nuts.
Oprah is abusing the unique position of influencethat she has. However, a large number of the people she influences are not registered to vote, so if she can persuade those people to register she will have made the USA more democratic. Those who are offended by her support of Obama should boycott both her show and the products she sells and endorses.
all the other candidates are white, if it wasnt a racial decision to support obama, then why did she 1) support the only black candidate, then 2) bring up Dr. Kings speach and talk about voting it into reality. She has created an issue for herself which created the backlash. She stepped on it and is now trying to fix it. Oprah your just as bad as jerry springer. Only jerry springer at least doesnt try to hold himself up as some pius individual.
Get over it, you made a mistake, and it is starting to cost you, your zombie followers are waking up and realizing you arent as clear of conscience and intention as you liked to make believe you were. Another american hero pulls it out and steps on it and then cries " why is this happening to me......." you did it to yourself, deal with it.
CNN is so desperate to find something negative on Oprah's support for Barack Obama, that they have stooped low and are printing one or two negative messages in a sea of thousands that they have found on Oprah's message boards on her website, that my friend is desperation by Clinton News Network. CNN is making sure that everyone carry on their stereotypes and judge everyone by their skin colour, Oprah can support whomever she see fit why is CNN so negative and crazy about this? Hopefully in 2008, Dr. King's dream of equality and his quote saying all people should be judged by the content of our character not the color of their skin will be realized next year.
I love that random commenters on Oprah's website deserve a spot on CNN's political ticker. Anyways, they're obviously ignorant if they believe she is pitting blacks against whites. Actually, the mere publication of this allegation on the part of CNN is shameful. It is your responsibility as a news organization to filter irrelevant opinions. This is a waste of a post.
How the he11 is paying tribute to Dr. Martin Luther King's positive vision for America "setting a negative racial tone" or "pitting blacks against whites"? Dr. King advocated for peace, equality, and understanding, not division.
I guess Oprah's comments only pit blacks against those whites who do not stand for equality among races. Those whites are bigoted white supremacists, whether they know it or not, and I hope they do stop watching Oprah, as they are unworthy of her positive message.
Shine on, Oprah. We love you and I for one am glad to see you using your power for change and social justice.
Oprah is in denial about her racist attitude. Everything she does is for or about the black race. Her comment in the past about having white people work for her was her most insulting comment ever to the white race.
This woman is NOT a politician and has NO business doing this. My view of her had definately changed.
GOOD! That's what Oprah Winfrey gets for using her influence irresponsibly.
I have never been a fan of Oprah so I am not surprised or disapointed that she plays the race card just more determined to ignore her.
I'm not an Oprah fan or such. However, I salute you for having the courage to first see we are in trouble and second to act on it. I believe you are supporting our best hope in Obama. The common American citizen has taken hit after hit by politicians and special interests. The common person now has basically taxation without representation.Thank you Oprah for trying to make a difference.
If Oprah was white, supporting a candidate who was also white will she get this backlash???
I THINK NOT!!!!!
Her actions speak louder than words. I've never cared much for Oprah since she repeatedly questioned Tiger Woods for not saying he's black. I think he's only a 1/4 African American. He's mostly Thai. She just couldn't seem to understand how he related more to the Thai community than the black community.
She's got wonderful intentions, but like many in her generation she still carries a lot of baggage and seems to have a lot to prove. Personally, I hope my generation is much smarter. Just like I wouldn't vote for a beer drinking buddy I'm not going to vote for them because a talk show host likes them. Heck! She was all for war with Iraq and look what a mess that is now.
I think that Ms. Winfrey can do whatever she wants. She is a responible adult in America and because of that she is free to make whatever choices she please. If Ms. Winfrey had support for any other canidate, this comment wouldn't even exist. Are whites voting for whites, because they are white? Or are whites voting for the better canidate? The world will never know. I see that blacks are the only group of people criticized when they vote for someone who is black. Asians, who vote for Asians aren't lamblasted, Latinos that vote for Latinos aren't politically attacked and certainly not whites who vote for whites in large voting blocks. Mr. Obama is very qualified for the presidency of the United States. She is not throwing her support behind Jay-Z, or 50 cents for President, she is throwing her support behind a United States Senator who happens to be black. I think that Ms. Winfrey is right in a sense. This country haven't moved far from Dr. King's speech in 1963.
Whatever Oprah says, she's been deluded to campaign for Obama. She turns her back on the 'sly' Chicago history of Obama. Her fervor to have a black guy elected president is obvious. I myself have no problems electing a black, latino or asian president. Because I would look at this person's qualifications to lead the greatest country on earth. Obama needs to do a lot more learning & serving than running for president. That's what i think.
Oprah will lose respect that she'll never regain not because she supports obama, but in the manner in which she does this, by using her immense power and martin luther king's great speech to drum up the black vote for her black candidate. poor tase Oprah, and you are blind mentally to think you are simply an american citizen exercising your rights, shame on you, what you've done is a slap in the face to all americans of all colors, just apologize and go back to lala land where i am sure you'll still have fans showing up for you shows, but i no longer have any respect for you
If Oprah was white as well as Obama, would anyone say she was supporting him because he is white. How stupid!
I don't like Hillary Clinton, I am not an Oprah watcher either. I am an American male democratic voter. I am glad that Oprah is supporting Barack Obama. I don't trust her, I never voted for her for Senator, and I never voted for Bill Clinton either. When he ran I voted for Ross Perot. We need another third or fourth party with power to rescue us from this 2 party MESS!!!!!!
I don't care what she does! Her vote is worth one vote. If all of her viewers vote as she wishes then that is their problem. I don't think Obama or Clinton can win the Presidency. So, odds are that one of the GOP high profile guys will win.
I have stopped watching oprah now, Celebs who get involved any and all, WHITE, BLACK, YELLOW, WHAT EVER and use their power is wrong..
Go for it Oprah! When is America going to get over itself on race. Even if she was supporting him because he's black so what, she identifies with him and that's all that matters. Please America, try and be grown up about this a express your wonderful ideals truthfully.
From
White African
Saw the interview with Oprah and Denzel Washington – promoting their new movie "The Great Debaters". When Denzel was asked if he too was supporting Obama, he very graciously declined to say!! Finally when pressed further, he politely replied that although he liked Senator Obama, he was going to wait and listen to what ALL of the candidates have to say, before deciding which one to support. Whereupon Oprah immediately pounced by responding "I'll take him into the back room and have a little talk with him." That for me was painfully embarrassing to see. Denzel came across as a senior statesman, while Oprah was Oprah – gotta love her
But you also have to wonder if her new movie has anything to do with her sudden new-found interest in politics and support of Senator Obama? (just my own thoughts) Kinda interesting that it's coming out right now though – I'd like to go see it... I love Denzel!!
Please Oprah, Don't say that its not a Racial statement. Because it is. You stated it yourself. Dr. Martin Luther Kings Vision. If you are doing this to support your Race at least be Woman enough to admit it. Do not think for one second that all of your fans are so naive and gullible.
It is not the fact of black or white my issue is with obmahs refusal to salute the flag,and oprah jumping in feet first without considering what this means to alot of americans-black and white.
Oprah fans need to grow up and gain a little adult perspective. There is more to this woman than chatting with Dr. Phil or the latest celebrity.
Change is good. Don't try to turn back the clock and put anyone in a box as to what they should and should not do. If her tours get even two more voters to think and vote, then she has made a contribution.
Apathy is more dangerous to a democracy than a good debate on the issues or 80.000 people in a stadium listening to one candidate... now they may go out and check out their other options.
Sometimes we as humans feel hurt, even if people are telling us the truth. Meaning that Oprah Winfrey may feel offended because we can sense, feel & it's obvious she is supporting Mr. Obama because of who he is. I don't believe she would ever support a white candidate. That would go well with her crowd.
I am in agreement with the comments on Oprah's website. It is a shame that politicians have to result to entertainers to win an election. Obama should be able to stand on his own merit, if he is truly a viable candidate for the Office of the Presidency. I question his abilities and his experience; why did it take Oprah for him to draw a crowd?
I'm glad that Opra knows that she cannot please everybody, their is nothing racial about her comment. If Obama was white will they have said the same thing, but then black community will attack her if their was a black candidate, she did not support. Is their anything wrong in having political opinion, like Dr.King said, don't judge people by the colour of their skin.
If Oprah didn't want people to make that conclusion, why did she specifically state that we can make Dr. King's dream happen by voting? Why did she have to put a racial spin on things instead of talking about what Obama was going to do for the people of this country when elected.
Isn't it a sad commentary on presidential elections, and/or American society in general, when a large segment of potential voters will cast their vote not based on a candidates views or qualifications, but on which celebrity endorses them? Is it also not interesting how quick blacks are to "play the race card" Seems that whenever they are successful or famous it's because they worked hard and earned it. But when things go bad it's because "whitey" is "keeping them down"
Jesus Christ. I have always hated Oprah fans but this clinches it. I'm happy that she supports the right candidate, and I'm happy that some of her halfwit followers join her in supporting Barack. But I don't want to hear about this ridiculous drama.
Shut up, Oprah fans. No one cares what you think. If you disagree with her, then don't vote for Barack. You're not needed. You think Obama needs you? There are 300 million other voters in this country. You think Oprah needs you? Oprah has a billion dollars. A billion.
Sage on your stupid drama.
I have quit watching. Wouldn't believe Oprah was prejudiced.
Why do we continue to designate people as "black" in any case? Obama's mother was "white" and so why do we always see him as "black." What formula makes one "black" or "white" or whatever? Isn't it time that our culture grew past these designations. I agree with Oprah. If we assume she supports Obama because he appears to be "black," are we not revealing our own prejudice? If I support Edwards and you see that I am "white" – well that must be the reason -the fact that I am "white" and he is "white." The logic here must hold in all cases. I would posit that Oprah supports Obama because she thinks he offers the best hope to pull the country out of the ditch into which we were driven in the fall of 2000, not because he happens to carry the designation of "black."
I have always thought Oprah a smart woman. But her touring with Obama, the speeches,all those HUGS. Is she expecting something in return if Obama is elected president, like an ambassadorship? Ala Angelina Jolie? After all what else is there for her to accomplish? It is our American right to support who we believe in but that last weekend of her campaigning for Obama was just over the top. It totally turned me off to both. She should consider running for office herself then. A very smart woman indeed.
I believe that many are missing the point of what Oprah meant when she said that we are getting the opportunity to "...vote [Dr. King's] dream into reality." Dr. King dreamed of a day when a man (or woman) could stand and be judged based on his merit, without bias due to his race. And Oprah sees an opportunity for us to do just that. We can stand up and support Barack Obama because we feel that he would be the best president, or we can choose not to support him if we don't feel he is the best candidate. But whatever we choose, it will (or at least should) be due to his policy positions and visions for the future, not because of his ethnic heritage. Those who lambast Oprah for "pitting black against white" are showing much more about their own views on race relations than they are giving any insight into Oprah's.
These naive so-called stars have zero influence what-so-ever in the political arena. For them to think they can sway voters to make a difference is obscene on their part. All these white housewives will drop her faster than you can say 'O'.
I agree that Ms. Oprah has the right to politically express her views. However, as much as a crital thinker as she is, and quite a few celebrities are, I do believe she should leave her celebrity for those things she does well at the show's door. Host the TV show, do good for children, contribute her monies to those things she has passion about...and continue to raise awareness about...promote reading, health issues,domestic violence and all the other good things she brings out in the open.
I just really don't care about her politics...I'm disappointed...I expected her, like so many other celebs, to take the high road and not discuss what she does in the voting booth. When I heard she was compaigning for Obama, I knew in my bones there would be backlash. She has every right to do it...but her fans don't care to know who she supports or doesn't support. Period. I heard only a small portion of her "stump" speeches. They were contrived, pompous, seemingly rehearsed, and her voice and intonation changed. I never thought I see arrogance in Ms.Oprah..but I heard it. It just didn't move me. Most of us think it is too early to make decisions...we haven't heard much on the issues for any one...Republicans or Democrats. I am a rabid Democrat and still do not know who I will vote for. How can Oprah decide publicly this early?
I think Oprah need's to define why she dropped supporting Hillary C., and took up the fight for Obama. Just saying that he/she supports change is not enough, since we have not realized how Mrs. Clinton would change things!
Jeremy
I had seen Obama, and his campaign, as race neutral until Oprah started stumping for him. I felt that by her comments she injected a black-against-white, us-against-them tone that truly surprised me. Our next president needs to unite this divided country and I had been leaning toward supporting Obama as being able to do that. But now I'm wondering if there might be some unspoken black agenda that I'd inadvertently be supporting.
I am shocked that Ophra would actually campaign for Barak Obama. She is giving him free advertisement and publicity worth millions in TV time and exposure. She has a great deal of influence on the thinking of the public as big a celberity as she is. It is unfair to all the other candidates and to the national democratic process itself, for Ophra to offer this level of support to the Obama campaign.
Oprah is out-of-line by suddenly openly/aggressively supporting/pushing Obama. Why – all of sudden – when she could have support other presidential candidates many times in the past. It is VERY ODD that suddenly she is doing so (and very aggressively) with a African-American candidate. This tells me that knowledge/experience/ethics/values of the candidate aren't important. Only the color of their skin. Now who is the RACIST!! Instead, she needs to be supporting the candidate based on their vision and who will best directs the nation. Oprah – you goofed and if you don't see this – you are color blinded and a bigot.
The argument against Oprah speaking out for Barrack is absurd. If Oprah supporting Barack means that she is pitting blacks against whites, then every white celebrity/politician supporting the other candidates is making a racial statement against Barack, and every woman that supports Hillary is supporting a move against men. And may I add that it would mean that every person supporting John Edwards is doing so because they think the majority of the U.S. will never elect a woman or a man of color so Edwards, as a rich white southern man, will be the heir to the candidacy.
Oprah Windbag is supposedly an intelligent woman. Of course she knew that her endorsement of, and support for, Barak Obumble would lead to even more polarization than there is now. My guess is she counted on it.
Oprah crossed "the line", and then some, years ago. This recent foray is only further proof that she believes her hype. Like Britney and Lindsay, Oprah just needs to go away.
I think the reason that people suspect Oprah of supporting Obama for racial motivations is the simple fact that the man has nothing else going for him. He's moderately articulate, he's not Hillary, and he's not GWB. Big deal. Once you get past those "qualifications" which at least a million other Americans have, he's just a run of the mill politician, with the usual Democrat tax-and-spend ambitions.
Oh, he's also had the brilliant idea of bombing Pakistan. What a visionary! What a leader! What a freaking waste of space.
-jcr
I think Oprah's support of Obama is a good thing.....and hopefully those out there with a brain will too. I would hope we had moved a little further on the black/white thing but that will never go away for some people. Go Oprah!
I agree with Oprah .....
If you don't vote for Obama .....
YOU ARE A RACIST!!!!!
Go O 08
Was it just me or did anyone else notice her speech in South Carolina shifted into an extremely black dialect? It wasn't her normal tone and shows me more than ever that her support for Obama is all a racial issue.
I work so I don't watch Oprah. She's become the "Ralph Nadar" of this election and turned one of the most important elections of our time into an American Idol contest. Make no mistake Obama will never do for black women or white women what Hillary
Clinton will do. joyce k (senior citizen)
She has lost MY viewership.
Again, WHY does this woman think she has any influence over America???
When Ben Affleck supported John Kerry, was he pitting whites against black? Or was he pitting men against women? Are we supposed to not watch his movies anymore because we didn't agree with him making an endorsement? Why didn't they say she was pitting Illinois residents against non-Illinois residents? Why are blacks said to be voting their race and whites are not held to the same standard? I very much respect Oprah for not using her show to campaign and letting that medium stay neutral. But remember that she has just as much right as any American citizen to vote for the senator from her state to be president as anyone else.
I agree that Oprah has crossed a line with her very public support of Obama, and not because of the race issue. Oprah has power and with that power comes responsibility. Obama is not electable all across the county...yet. Therefore it is irresponsible for her to intervene at this time. Change can happen anywhere not just in the White House. Perhaps Mr. Obama should stay in the Senate a bit longer so other people can see his character and join him. Oprah has made wrong picks in her past, and I believe she's done it again.
Apparently Obama is in trouble and needs Oprah Sharpton's help.
Remember the candidate is OBAMA not WINFREY!
I find it absolutely laughable that Whites are offended by Oprah's support for Obama. I suppose as long as she plays the classic role of 'entertaining Negro' they have nothing to worry about. Perhaps, those who were offended by her performance at Obama's side should admit to themselves that we no longer live in a world run by Whites only. It's only a matter of time before this country is lead by a non-White. The sooner the closet bigots out there accepts this fact the better.
Oprah has made the perfect, calculated moves. She knows Obama doesn't stand a chance of beating Hillary in the primary election but she can back him now and make a lot of people happy and then when the real race begins, she can support Hillary too and be super-Oprah for supporting both the black candidate AND the woman candidate.
Oprah is not the richest woman in America because she just does thing without calculation. She could hardly be more obvious.
As long as we don't get four more years of arrogant, ignorant Republican "rule" we'll be fine.
While I do not understand how any serious person could be much influenced by any celebrity endorsement, I completely support Winfrey's decision to weigh in with the person she thinks to be the best candidate, even if she and I disagree. She has all the money she could ever need and has all the trappings of celebrity and wealth so why shouldn't she use whatever influenece she has in the interests of our nation and of the issues she cares about. This is not a topic that needs or is worth any analysis and the fact that it is being so analyzed speaks to the absence of much informed debate about the real problems we continue to face as we suffer from the debacle of the Bush presidency. At least she is speaking her mind-something those who put their brains on hold in 2000 would do well to emulate.
Oprah is blatently doing this, in my eyes, as racial. Never has she stood up for ANY other person before. Are you telling me that she never felt this way for anyone running for president in her life? I think it's blatent and embarrasing.
I, too, lost her trust completely.
I believe allot of those who are upset are Hillary Clinto Supporters, and it is stating the obvious, had Oprah back Hillary tthere would not have been this seemingly back last."Dr. King dreamed the dream, we get to vote that dream into reality." This is not racist, to understand this is to know DR. King and what he stood for, integration and complete non vilolence, not white against black. CNN should not even try to create an issue where there is none. OPRAH is right, and again had she support Hillary we wouldn't see this. CNN endorses Hillary,- NO SUPRISE THERE!
OBAMA ALL THE WAY
Eveything that was said at that campaign was true and sometimes the truth is bitter and it is better to stand for the truth and be counted than to hide. The same reason why nothing has changed much in America with regards to levels of illiteracy and poverty. Good for you Oprah and well done Obama. A true leader is one that inspires and Obama definitely is inspiring and a breath of fresh air to most from all past rhetorics where nothing happens.
This really is a stupid story. The entire basis for this story is the comments section of Oprah's web site?? It will certainly be a controvercial day if every anonymous response to an internet chat/story/blog is now considered news worthy.
As to the specific comment made claiming that referring to Dr. King will "pit blacks against whites": Bringing up the fact that having a black president in a country that, up until the 1960s, was segregated is historic is not meant to make caucasian americans feel inferion. It is meant to bring up a solid fact. Get used to it.
To all of Oprah's fans that seem to believe that she is pitting Blacks against Whites, where were you naysayers when she supported and still supporting Rachel Ray and her efforts as a cook? Where were you when she supported and still supporting Dr. Phil? I suppose it is ok for her to support and push forward Whites, but it is not okay for her to support Blacks? Why aren't you screaming fowl because Barbra Steisand is supporting Hillary Clinton or Tim Robbins is supporting Mike Huckabee? Seems to me only narrow minded people will take something minute and find racial overtones in it. I guess Oprah has your support as long as she supports people that are not African-Americans. If you people will learn to look to God for inspiration then you will not be so uninspired by Oprah or anyone else for that matter. This country was founded on one key principle, "Freedom of Choice". For the record, I do not watch Oprah's show too busy running my OWN business. I have too many other things to worry about in life, such as lack of healthcare for the elderly and children, homelessness and underpaid/overworked employees, etc., to concern myself with who is supporting whom in this election. Maybe if you people would get out of your self-absorbed world once in awhile you will see that life really doesn't evolve around you.
Oprah says campaigning for Obama is not a racial issue but she has been famous for many years and I don't ever remember her doing this for any other candidate. i have lost a lot of respect for her.I've always admired her for her accomplishments and she did it on her own. let obama do the same. if he is worthy the people will vote him.
MJD
Check you e-mail Oprah they Probally Came From HILLARY"S CAMP. That she did not know that they were doing.
When these people get dragged out of Iowa I'm going to Laugh my butt off.
Obama 08,12
I think she is right, she can supprot who ever she wants. I am an Obama supporter and to tell you the truth, Kermit the Frog could have endorsed Obama and it would not have changed my opionin at all. As we say in the Navy, we are beating a dead horse here, this is old news.
People/viewers thought with all her 25 years of success for a black woman that she of all woman would look past race, I realluy think she has changed public opinion of her and thats not good.
Let Oprah get as offended as she wants. She is a racist, no matter how much she tries to deny it.
Sorry you're offended, Queen Oprah.
I do feel Oprah should stick to talk show hosting. She is too decidedly "black" and this offends the 75% of her viewers that are not. Her efforts to help black people in Chicago failed, her school in Africa is troublesome, and her political views are unwelcome.
I am not only one of Oprah Winfrey's fans, but also the author of two journals on her website and I have already dissed her on the Huffington Post for going on the road to raise racial dust in her hullabaloo for Senator Barack Obama.
She was politically smart in Iowa, but she let the black cat out of the bag in South Carolina, as she appealed to racial sentiments by talking about Dr. Martin Luther King.Jr, and the dream of having a black president. She misinterpreted the American Dream of the great civil rights leader.
Anyway, Oprah's hullabaloo did not do much for Barack Obama, because Senator Hillary Rodham Clinton now leads in Iowa after the last debate among the Democratic presidential candidates, Thursday, in Johnston, Iowa.
The latest Iowa State University poll released today shows:
Hillary – 31%
Edwards – 24%
Obama – 20%
Another poll released today also shows Clinton leading Democrats in Iowa, New Hampshire and South Carolina. [AP/Pew Research]
I would like to say that as an Anglo-American woman who is a registered republican, I am a bit disturbed by the backlash concerning Oprah's support for Barack Obama. I am not voting for him, but I understand what she meant: to fulfill Martin Luther King's Dream, people will be judged by the content of their character. I don't think anything she said was out of line. If you like Barack Obama, then vote for him.
While I'm not an Obama supporter (I do, however, think he's an good and honorable man) I'm happy Oprah is sticking to her guns and backing a candidate that she thinks best supports what she believes is right.
Good for her.
It is truly amazing that none of her fans complained when she supported Dr.Phil in his media endeavors or any other caucasion author, entertainer, designer etc that has been promoted or supported through her show. All of the work that Oprah has done and this is what her fans are complaining about. Give her a break PLEASE! What this shows is that Anglo-Americans, especially some of Oprah's fans,have racial hangups. But what do you expect, this is America, where RACISM is part of the American fabric.
I agree Oprah is backing Obama because he is Africian American. He does not bring impressive credentials to the table.He's a sitting target for the Rebublicians if he becomes the nominee. What else could impress her?
CNN – America's most trusted tabloid! Right ahead of People magazine. Just barely though.
How long does it take to moderate posting?????????????????
Does the posting have to go the HRC camp for review or something????
These people didn't have a problem when she backed Bill, or said good things bout Hillary. So, she can back white politicians, just not black politicians.
These are clearly disgruntled Hill fans!
"I made the decision that I have the right to do it as an American citizen," she said.
Yes, it's the 101 Amendment to the Constitution... Rights Given to the Elite Regardless of Responsibilities... Unfortunately, it won't be voted on for another million years, right after Cows are given driver's licenses.
Who cares they probably werent true fans to begin with. If you love someone for who they are then you would respect the fact they she is doing what she wants to do. If Oprah would have supported there candidate of choice I dont think they would have said anything. A handfull of fans doesnt matter to the millions she already has.
Why report this as if this is something serious. I think Oprah knew some will turn on her but they'll be back!
Oprah has the right to support whoever she wants to, just like any other American citizen. Some people in this country are seriously ridiculous. Those people that are turned off by Oprah's support have mental problems. Grown folks are acting like children......
No surprise.
I'm sure a lot of those "fans" are just ticked off that Oprah isn't campaigning for a Republican......
Has she ever said why Obama is the person we need, or is it just to promote Dr. King's agenda? Not that there's anything wrong with that.......
Did people see MSNBC's Hardball last night? Chris Matthews can be very annoying... but he had the top advisors for each of the top 3 democratic cadidates on last night (Obama, Clinton, Edwards). And Mark Penn (Clinton's advisor) was trying to insert some very sleazy things about Obama while apologizing for the comment about his drug use (that the average person wouldn't have even realized he was doing)... but the Edwards guy totally called him on it. It was crazy! You have to see a clip of this.
Oprah is showing her colors here (no pun intended), I KNOW you wouldn't ever see her teaming up with a white candidate because she knows Brother Jesse and Brother Al would be on her case.......
How long does it take to moderate posting?????????????????
Does the posting have to go the HRC camp for review or something????
Posted By John Karsten, Virginia Beach, VA : December 14, 2007 8:09 am
John, you bet. One question mark is enough unless you are impatient by nature:-)
Jokes apart, dont hate. Love HRC, she is human. Only media dislikes her because then media ratings go up.
As a celebrity–if she aligns behind a candidate and provides very public support as she has–she can expect some backlash just like Chuck Norris and others have. Everyone has an opinion–and nothing brings them out like politics. Personally, I believe celebrity endorsements–and too much activism works against the candidates sometimes. Norris–sure hasn't helped Huckleberry significantly, except within his own party. In the general election–too much activism from Oprah could lead to presumptions that he couldn't have done it on his own, that he needed to becom OpraBama–to convince the "Oprah audience" to support him–thus gain a large block of female voters. Fact is, I'm not sure her audience will share her political views, nor that her influence necessarily better demonstrates his capability and preparedness for the Presidency. Edwards–is much more in touch with single women households, and especially in the transitional service sector–where loss of full time wages, seasonal employment, and new business ventures–are completely under the radar of most of Washington. He is fighting for urgent and immediate action to help relieve some of their suffering, so rationally speaking he should do much better in a general election if he can survive Iowa.
I have tried to add several post here?
your viewers are not permitted to respond on Oprah?
I attended the Columbia, SC event, and there was nothing bad about it. Most agree, from all sources, that she did a very good job. Her message was of hope, bipartisanship, and the need to reestablish America's image in the world. She is backing the candidate that she thinks is best. More people should have the guts to openly support the one they believe would be best for the country.
AND SO IT BEGINS.......................
Clinton News Network carrying water for Hillary. Again.
I absolutely agree with the fact that Oprah and Obama are pitting blacks against whites as thay toured the primary states. They both "put on" their southern preacher voices to swell the support from blacks, voices not heard in the debates and on the Oprah show. This in itself is insulting to blacks and whites, let alone the allusions to a black rising in politics. This coming from the campaign of "unity." Seems more like a campaign of division. I also question Obama's denial of his white mother while campaigning. Where does she fit in to the "rising above the norm" (as they call it? He is bi-racial; yet, this is a campaign for a "black" President. It bothers me that this is going on. White candidates cannot run based on keeping whites in power and white issues. It would be a news circus and a shame for all of America. Oprah and Obama should not get away with running with the underlying notion for blacks rising as well. We all must rise. Her pitting and his posturing are dangerous. I am a lifelong democrat who will not vote for the division in the country. If Obabm becomes the nominee, I will vote otherwise. Whether that means choosing a candidate who will not completely represent my ideals on the political side as a Republican might not or choosing an independent who will probably not win, I don't know. But, I know I will not vote for the civil unrest that Oprah and Obama are heading toward. I am not a prejudice person. I don't want want to become one. I am, however, seeing that Oprah and Obama are in many ways creating prejudice thinking in our country, and we have come a long way from that mondset. Shame on them and their campaign to introduce such thoughts into the minds of black and white voters. Colin Powell was able to unify a country behind him (whether he was right or wrong) and he is every bit as black as Obama. Powell was a unifier; Obama is a divider. Be careful voters. You may just get the opposite of what you are seeing in the Obama campaign. The OPRAMA duo is doing America an injustice. Think about it.
CNN thinks trolls on Oprah's blog are news? Yikes.
Where were those "so called" fans when Oprah was indorsing various white individual's books, business, etc.
I love how these bloggers have turned the race card on Oprah when it is clearly them who have a predisposition to issues of skin color. Oprah has always been a fair judge of everyone, it's a pity that her so-called fans aren't. I guess they love her in theory, but not in practice. Typical. Now that Obama has become a serious contender, the faux members of Oprah Nation show their true colors...
I totally agree. It's ashame what Oprah's doing.
GOOD! glad to see her falling from her racist high horse! Obama was awful in EVERY debate...
I hope ALL women tune her out!
READ THE QUOTATION BELOW FROM ANOTHER CNN ARTICLE IN TODAY'S NEWS AND READ YET ANOTHER RACIST COMMENT IN THE OBAMA CAMPAIGN, BUT NOBODY SEEMS TO SEE THAT WE ARE BEING PITTED AGAINST EACH OTHER: BLACKS VS WHITES- IS THIS WHAT WE WANT FOR OUR COUNTRY AFTER WE HAVE COME SO FAR TO UNIFY???
READ READ READ:
"At the Apollo, black comedian Chris Rock rallied blacks to support Mr. Obama: "You'd be real embarrassed if he won and you wasn't down with it. You'd say, 'aw man, I can't call him now. I had that white lady. What was I thinking?' "
Really think about it...and vote to unify, not divide.
Shame on you CNN and Carol Costello...this is pure race-baiting.
CNN Ticker staff:
Why is this post from yesterday now appearing above this morning's CNN Ticker AM post? Did you edit the timestamp or move the post up without noting the timestamp edit it in the post itself?
People who are home during the day watching her show are either stay-at-home moms, un-employed workers or retired folks.
When you sit home all day, your brain tends to atrophe. Then you rely on others to think for you.
Enough said...
Most likely just more shillary plants blogging anonymously...
Those that keep referring to this site as a news site – or the Clinton News Network – please stop being so ridiculous and downright stupid. It's a political blog – appropriately named "Political Ticker". It's not news.
It just goes to show how far this country HAS NOT gotten since DR. King had a dream. To think that this is a black white thing. If she had backed Hillary, people would not have been upset.
And some of her so called fans are only fans as long as she doesnt remind them that she is "OMG" Black?
It IS insulting to say she's only backing him because he's Black, to both Obama and Oprah. He is not the first Black candidate, if race was the issue she would have back jessie jackson and al sharpton when they made their runs.
Also, I can't help but to think that opposing campaigns are bring up this issue with Oprah JUST remind people that Obama is black. It seems like the Polls are forgeting he's a Black man so they have to find someway to remind the people.
Good grief, folks, Oprah is exercising her rights as an American citizen. she has had plenty of opportunities to endorse black candidates before; Keyes, Jackson, Sharpton and she never did. This is not a black/white issue. It's perfectly OK for white Babs Streisand to endorse white Hillary Clinton or white Chuck Norris to endorse white Mike Huckabee. But when a black celebrity endorses a serious black contender it's all about the race thing.
It appears to me that all the folks that are crying foul due to race and profess that they are NOT prejudiced are actually lying to themselves and perhaps, 'methinks they protesteth too much'.
I am not a fan of Oprah or Obama. I catch her show once in a while, my wife loves her. I think more celebs should use their star power if they love a candidate and agree with their message, many do. I am sure that Oprah gave this a lot of thought and consideration. I think she is smart enough to see that Hillary is a phony of epic proportions. Had corporate owned Clinton not been leading in the polls she probably would not have gotten involved. If you were to interview someone for a job, wouldn't you also check their background record? Check on Hillary's past and think for your selves. Stop buying into her lies and deceptions. And PLEASE don't start bringing out the race card, it's ridiculous. You want truth? WWRPD,org . Use your head folks. I love you and I love my America.
re: A Voter who Cares: Are you that thin skin? Why are you carry CNN's water? Oprah has the right to endorse who she wants. Frankly speaking, this article is somewhat suspect-CNN has been pushing the Obama-Oprah "hoopla" for weeks now. If anyone is divisive, it's you and CNN. I was not at all offended by Oraph's endorsement of Obama. You must be an HRC supporter, because unlike her, Obama doesn't mention his race, sex or religion.
Because Oprah is supporting a Black candidate, people want to assess that she is being too pro-black. On the other hand, if she would have supported a White candidate then she would've ran into certain opposition from many African Americans. It's a lose-lose situation Oprah. Even though I never was a fan of Oprah's, I gained so much respect for her after she offered her support to Barack. It let me know that she would be willing to take a risk and possibly damage her career in order to support something/someone that she believed in. That's priceless. Nice job, Oprah!
Posted By sick of oprah : December 14, 2007 8:46 am
What a pack of outright untruths. FYI snopes.com is not infallible.
His father became an atheirst, his stepfather, was Muslim but not very strict about it, he had a much more practical, business-like attitude towards life.
He did swear in on the Bible, you are thinking of the Rep from Minnesota who used the Koran. And so what, if the Koran is the Holy Book for an individual, an oath sworn on that book is much more binding than one sworn on the Bible.
If a Muslim were to swear on the Bible it would not be a binding oath, so the Koran for a Muslim makes every bit of sense.
He joined the United Church of Christ over 20 years ago, so that was all a part of his devious plan.
So, sick of Oprah, why don't you put on your tinfoil hat, retreat to your lead-lined basement, and stop spreading such vicious untruths. There is no basis for fact in nearly everything you said.
It's bigoted mental midgets like you that have America in the shape it's in. Folks like you are the dividers.
Look on Oprahs website – there was 3000 letters of support and 20 that say anything negative – statistically speaking....99% of her audience supports her....but you have to wonder why the Clinton News Network would publish such a piece....I really hope theres an investgation into journalistic integrity – it getting alittle carried away.
Oprah was quite aware that becoming politically involved would carry a price. She could have stayed on the sidelines, run a few fundraisers, and called it a day. Instead, she put her good name (and she does have a goo dname with the overwhelming majority of Americans, including those like me who aren't particularly fans of her show) on the line to work on something she things is important.
Like so many people involved in the campaign, she's making a personal sacrifice of time and energy to support something she believes in.
That's what makes her backing of Barack Obama carry weight. In Oprah's case that sacrifice involves the potential for financial repercussions as well, and that's why her endorsement carries weight with people in her audience and beyond.
It might sound strange for some people, but let me ask: why do we have to feel obligated to fulfill anybodies dream, including King's?
I just think its a shame that a person whose theme song is "I'm every woman!" has chosen to support another candidate. Let's get serious, if Americans want change, I think finally giving a woman the chance fits that bill. Anyway, any of the candidates running for either party would be better than what the US has now!!
Oprah Winfrey, Vice President Candidate
Could it happen??
Can't get on board the Oprah-Obama traveling circus.It doesn't take guts to support a candidate.It doesn't take guts to support a candidate but it certainly takes intelligence to support a good one.This side-show has neither.
At this crucial time in history,sending a rookie to the whitehouse might be an even bigger mistake than starting a war in Iraq and electing the knuckle-head that did it!
Oprah has shown a complete lack of knowledge about the qualifications necessary for the most important job in the world and Obama has showed that he's not anywhere near being ready to handle it,let alone be any good at it...yet.
People can make speeches made up of the quotes of others but that doesn't mean that they really know what their talking about.Take away Dr.King's quotations and Oprah is nothing more than a well known,over-paid cheerleader at best that has let her emotions and personal passions take over.When that happens the thinking part of the brain goes on an extended vacation!
Obama will not get a leadership "Rookie of the Year" award from global leaders or our own congress.They will all use him like a pinata and he won't get a single thing accomplished.While I doubt anyone would be stupid enough to try and assassinate him because that would only make him a martyr,his hands and feet will be thourghly tied-up in committees and redtape,stonewalled and otherwise be completely irrelevant to foriegn leaders.He may even get hood-winked into treaties that would irrevocably damage or destroy our freedoms and way of life.
Rookie president's and talk show queens should NEVER be allowed to make these critical decisions for us.
Oprah has shown over and over she is for Obama because he is black. Why so was she for bush, republican and now do a complete turn about and support a democrat. She wants to be "the" center of attention, and she has found that Obama is wimpy enough to let her lead him by the nose......and she can throw in that black thing to get people riled up.
to the poster who identifies himself as "sick of oprah." I truly feel sorry for you. I would bet my next two paychecks that you identify yourself as a Christian. Am I right? Where is that famous Christian compassion I keep hearing about? What ever happened to tolerance? Religion in politics is okay, as long as it's your religion, right? What would Jesus do? He wouldn't behave like you, that's for sure.
DEMOCRATS- READ THIS EARLIER POST BELOW AND REALIZE THAT REPUBLICANS ARE DESPARATE FOR BARACK OBAMA TO WIN THE NOMINATION SO THEY CAN BEAT HIM IN THE GENERAL ELECTION! READ...READ...READ...YOU WOULD BE CRAZY TO HAND OVER THE PRESIDENCY TO ANOTHER REPUBLICAN BY VOTING FOR OBAMA! READ...READ...READ...
"I would like to say that as an Anglo-American woman who is a registered republican, I am a bit disturbed by the backlash concerning Oprah's support for Barack Obama. I am not voting for him, but I understand what she meant: to fulfill Martin Luther King's Dream, people will be judged by the content of their character. I don't think anything she said was out of line. If you like Barack Obama, then vote for him."
THE REPUBLICANS WANT BARACK HUSSEIN OBAMA TO WIN SO THEY CAN KEEP THE PRESIDENCY!!!!
CNN, aren't you embarrassed about this story? Quoting comments from bloggers as sources? Is that not the highest form of yellow journalism?
I guess you screen comments too and only publish the ones that agree with you. Just like the Clinton camp.
Sorry your candidate is doing so poorly.
Why can't Ms Oprah vote for who she want to. I would like to know the people making these comment, are voting for a person because they are Black or White. Don' pit Black aganist White we can vote for who we want to
Tongolo,
Beloni, that was a poll released 11 days ago that had hillary leading by 11 points to Obama, it is an old poll dont deceive us
Didn't somebody get in trouble for saying the following? "He's liked for being a clean cut, articulate, African American." As refreshing as he is, that's actually the truth. He never exposes himself to anyone who might actually ask him his views on real issues. All he speaks of is idealistic utopian nonsense. I doubt he has any real definitive views on issues, other then turing this country socialist. And celebrities such as Oprah, using their celebrity weight (no pun) have no business venturing into areas they have no right being. These people are completely clueless progressives whom have no idea of the world we live in. The sense of complacency which prevails in this spoiled country comes from decades and decades of good fortune. We are a soft and naive nation to even consider such a man for president – regardless of race. Wake up!
I'm white, I'm not voting for Obama because he is black.
I went to a rally for him in Austin and most of the people there were white.
Clinton polls the least well of the three top dems against any republican. Clinton is clearly the least electable democratic candidate.
How could anyone argue with that? Her campaign is being run in a very strange and childish way. Experience? Doesn't look like Clinton if you are paying attention to how poorly her campaign is being run. There's a reason she's lost the lead. 1) People are being exposed to the ideas of Obama 2) Clinton's message is let's hate the republicans, and anybody else that stands in my way, even if that's Barack Obama or John Edwards.
We all knew this was going to happen. Oprah fantasy that she is bigger than life. She really messed up and big. Her spill in South Carolina showed most of us what she is all about. It's a good thing that she is losing viewers and fans. She was the one that began this racist thing. I can see her backing an african american man but my GOD support one that is worth supporting.
Its ok to support a candidate. But keep that in the voteing booth. The whole world does not need to know who you are supporting. This sort of backlash from viewers should have been expected. She is on the air for entertainment value not her politcal choices.
There is nothing wrong with Oprah supporting Obama. The last time I checked we all have right to free speech. Oprah is not trying to be racist by supporting Obama in his bid to become our nation's next president. She is just supporting the candidate that she belives in. To call Oprah a racist is wrong and ridiculous. The only people that are making these comments are ill informed and uneducated. If you don't like her choice for President, than just change the channel and watch something else.
She has lost MY viewership.
Again, WHY does this woman think she has any influence over America???
Posted By Michelle D. – Atlanta, GA : December 14, 2007 6:13 am
Well, Michelle, apparently she influenced you to turn off her program.
Could it be that Oprah is supporting Sen. Obama purely to feed her own ego? She knows full well the influence she wields with her tv show, her book club, {where an author is rocketed to #1 by the mere mention of the book} people rush out and buy the products that she labels her "favorite things". What bragging rights she would have providing The Senator is successful. Wouldn't it be so egotistical to be able to say "You never would have been President, had it not been for me" ?
I personally am not a huge fan of Oprah's – but the woman has as much right as any of us to exercise her RIGHT to be politically involved and I applaude her for it.
Yes, she has more power and means than 99.9% of us do but she worked very hard to get where she is and I respect that.
So, to those who are trying to make this a question of racism or saying that someone shouldn't use their "celebrity" to promote a candidate I have to respectfully say "Back Off". Oprah is a citizen of the United States and she has as much right to support a political candidate that she believes in as any one else does.
A fresh face. That is all Obama is. I believe everything there is to know about both Oprah and Obama is being exposed in her endorsement. The rise of his popularity is set on the mere fact he is new to the scene, articulate, and a dreamer. Even Oprah alluded to this fact (dreamer, visionary, take your pick). When it comes to her endorsement, she has really never mentioned what specifically about his stances she supports; what policy changes he would make that are right for America. Like many endorsements, hers is without substance but with the difference that it relies on a powerful brand than others may have at their disposal. Do I commend her for her getting involved in the political process? Sure. However, as a foreign black man I am also note under a cloak to not understand that while Oprah claims to be supporting him for many reasons, one of the main ones is his race. Lets not make a mistake about that. Think about it, there have been in the last 20 years more candidates of real substance that have come forth she could have endorsed. Obama is really the first African American with a real chance of making it to the White House. If she can contribute to making that happen in her lifetime, she just will. In not admitting this fact she is also playing a political card in support of Obama's candidacy. Showing her true cards would undermine his candidacy and totally defeat the purpose of her involvement. Conclusion: Oprah is herself a politician in her own right!
Oprah’s stump for Obama was racist and once again, Oprah has the “audacity” to use Dr. King in her stump. Dr. King set out to get legislation passed in Congress that would give minorities Civil Rights. The dream would have still been a “dream” if the legislation did not get passed. Democrats want the House and Senate and the executive branch so that they can GET LEGISLATION PASSED for the greater good of the American people.
How do we stick to the plan to bring forth the CHANGE WE NEED when you’ve got Oprah telling people that they need to “change Washington”? What the heck does that mean and, more importantly, how do you go about it? They are telling us that they have some “NEW CHANGE”. When last I checked America was in an ideological war where the policies and legislation passed, and even the Supreme Court, leaned right. The Democrats took back the House and the Senate, but Emperor Bush and his veto power stopped them in their tracks. Now you’ve got Jack Cafferty and Lou Dobbs on every night sensationalizing the idea of an Independent Party which may hurt the Democratic Party. The Democratic Party has not really had a shot to show America change and as time progresses, should they not get that opportunity, the Democrats will be misrepresented in public opinion and they will be punting the ball back to the reactionaries. The Republicans will not go down so easily so we must stop them in their tracks.
If you are a Democrat or an Independent and you want change NOW, and you are not willing to wait for ambiguous procrastination and “hope” stick with the candidate that is known to bring it. In a football game, when it is 25 seconds on the clock, a tie game, and fourth and goal, to whom do you give the ball? You give the ball to the player that is KNOWN TO MAKE A DIFFERENCE, not to the rookie.
Hillary Clinton is the most qualified candidate, the most experienced candidate and she’s READY TO LEAD ON DAY ONE.
I never did like Oprah now It's confirmed. When did the most important election of our country turn into a Hollywood hype, shame on her, shame on us for letting it happen. As a veteran I am shocked that this display was approaved by anyone that loves this country.
Ofcourse this propaganda headline is repeated everyday superceding other developments in the campaign only on CNN. Clinton News Network, No Joke!
(Advice for political Ticker – go and visit MSNBC's FIRST READ and see how they stay CURRENT on the news and how they *UPDATE* when new information comes in or when they need to correct their information).
I hope you don't censor this. Because we will make your "censorship" a news and will talk about you guys all over the blog.
I never really liked Oprah much before all of this, but now that she's stumping for Obama I'm not sure if I respect her less. But I still hope her support is enough to get Obama over Hillary, whom I respect even less! The Clintons have pandered to blacks for decades to get their votes, and have done little for blacks. I do not understand black support for the Clintons.
Oh no, a handful of white middle age soccer moms are upset!!They're probably Hillary supporters that are just hating on Oprah for taking a stand on what she believes in. If the "fans" are that fickle, they were fair weathers anyway. Good riddance!
She can support whomever she wants, but ask Oprah for a rundown of what Barack Obama did for Illnois. Did he show leadership + make difficult decisions and keep spending under control? NO. He just voted for raising taxes for more "social programs" (i.e. free stuff for people who don't care to work). I could do THAT!
FACTS for the Uber Ignorant:
1. CNN is not biased. Fox News is.
2. Obama is not a radical muslim bent on destroying the U.S. The current administration IS destroying the U.S. with their antiquated, warmongering, backward beliefs.
3. Oprah is not backing Obama because he is black, however, I can bet that 99.99% of Republicans would NEVER back a candidate who is black. See Alan Keyes.
4. Democrats are the party of change, progress, unity, and democracy. Republicans are the party of corruption, intolerance, divisiveness, and backward thinking. SHOVE YOUR MORALITY WE NEED HEALTHCARE, JOBS, EQUALITY, AND PROSPERITY.
Oprah Winfrey has been around for a LONG, LONG time, and she has NEVER gotten behind any candidate. If Obama stood for something completely different than the other candidates, I could maybe see why she would back him. But he's just like all the other Democrats, so it's not about his agenda or his ideas. This is about race. Don't be fooled.
This is what you call double standard. If a white person votes for a white politician that is because they support their platform. If a black person supports a black politician they better explain exactly why because they are only supporting the candidate based on the color of the skin. Why? Why can't we be trusted to make intelligent decisions just like our white brothers and sisters?
America our moment is now!
Let's vote our convictions not the media calculations.
The racism that is showing up here is so sad to witness. If Oprah had endorsed a white candidate, Democrat or Republican, nothing would be said. I have never seen her march or support Al Sharpton or Jessie Jackson. What I HAVE seen her do is propel people like Dr.Phil to fame and fortune and no one had a problem with that. You didn't hear anyone Black saying, "Why didn't she get a Black Dr for her show". To fault her for her choice now only means YOU are the real racist!!!
Oprah says it's not about race. When is the last time she campaigned like this for a white candidate?
Posted By Ron Martens
Come on, think about what you're saying. Is a black person now required to first support a white candidate before a black one, just to avoid accusations like this? What is this, reverse political affirmative action?
Who's making this about race? Oprah, or people like you?
So if Obama doesn't win the presidential election, does that mean they're will be rioting all over American? Seems that's what happens when something doesn't side with the black agenda.
Despite the fact that many people feel they need to come of Clinton cycle, I would think it is high time Clintons give someone else a chance.....And that will be Obama my favourite candidate...
Are you kidding me , after reading these responses from Frank, and others like him i'am completely baffled that people would think Oprah is backing Barrack just on the merit of his skin. Anyone that has truly listen to his message knows that we are witnessing a change that is positive for all races of America. I'am a African American woman who is so inspired by this movement of change, apart of somthing all americans can believe in.
Why does anyone care what Ms. Winfrey, or any other celebrity, has to say about any candidate? Do these celebrities have some special wisdom that you don't have? Are they smarter than you? Of course not. Pay attention and consider all the candidates on your own. You know what this country needs. Wake up America!
While we are on the subject of color, the more imperative question is: Is now the time to elect a "green" senator to run this nation? Hillary or Obama would be disasterous at this particular point in history. I do not care what color your skin is, or how old you are; Does the Candidate have experience and moreover, wisdom? If a person examines the candidates based upon objective factors Joe Biden stands head and shoulders above the rest. The fact that Oprah would endorse Obama over a candidate with decades of experience and service states plainly; she considered one factor - Race.
I also think that Oprah is being racist when she has never showed intrest in politics until now and her comment about how it was Mr. Kings dream, when i heard her say that on t.v. i was appauled that such an influental woman could say such a thing. Although it may have been Mr. Kings dream it is just rediculous, that she would say that.
Obama is the first of his kind running at the spot that he is today. He need every support to help him go forward. Oprah, thank you for standing up for Obama.We are proud of you Oprah. All you people complaining about Oprah supporting Obama, turn off your T.V. Oprah don't need you, and you don't have to watch her show. She will survive better without you evil people watching her show.
Obama08
Content of his character Did anyone bother to listen to what Oprah said before they judged her? She just said Obama is a great guy who she thinks would do a great job! I'm with her 100% – the man was a law professor at Harvard for pete's sake, he's extremely well-qualified! And another thing I like about Obama, he isn't shoving his religious beliefs in our faces every 5 seconds. Religion should never dominate politics, and it's sad that it seems to be a growing sentiment in America that anything other than an bible-thumping, athiest-condemning, free-speech-hating censorship-sponsoring evangelical christian is unacceptible. It is diversity in its myriad forms that makes America great.
To Bradford, PA:
"to the poster who identifies himself as "sick of oprah." I truly feel sorry for you. I would bet my next two paychecks that you identify yourself as a Christian. Am I right?"
Bradford, I'm sick of Oprah too as many other people and I do hope that you have a good paying job because I'm not a Christian. So you can send me your next two paychecks or you can donate them to Clinton campaign if you stay by your words.
She way far racist than people can imagine! You deserve more than backlash from people for your actions Mrs Oprah racist.
I think an all important question is: If Obama were white, would Oprah still support him? Be honest, Oprah. Because I haven't seen Oprah back a political figure this in such a public way ever before a black candidate entered the race.
Posted By Jacqui Odell, Daleville, AL : December 13, 2007 7:45 pm
***************************************
If you become alittle bit Positive and unbiased, Oprah is a friend to Barack for a long time ago. His coming forth has shone light on Obama and the message that Cnn was not otherwise airing came to light. I just think how Obama is intelligent. I think if Hillary's poll is not down then you wouldn't have such article on CNN. I think also is alittle bit too late for Hillary and her network to amend anything. Just do what you can.
To me it is like Hillary has stopped to be negative but CNN will do it for her. Enough of this kind of approach. We are smart enough......
Even though I am black I am very disappointed in Oprah for her decision to jump into politics at this stage of the campaign. At least she should have waited until the party picked a candidate. Anyway, I am even more disappointed in CNN than I am in Oprah. CNN has been so biased against the Republican candidates and George Bush that even my children and nephews watching CNN are saying that we should never tune to the station. It looks as if CNN and the Liberals pray everyday for the worst to happen in Iraq so they can run a successful campaign. Is that patriotism or what?
Posted By George, Atlanta, Georgia : December 13, 2007 7:49 pm
How do I know you are black.....Mmmmmh anybody can write this I am sure. Just get over it. Obama is doing his thing....
Hey: Posted By Brian Tampa, FL : December 13, 2007 8:12 pm
So every citizen in the U.S.A. is allowed to have an opinion on the Iraq War except Oprah? That is just ignorant to think that. She has right to say whatever she pleases about the War in Iraq, just like you do.
Why does it even matter why she is supporting Obama? Ill tell you why, its becuase the so called fans that thought she would support either Hillary or one of the other Republicans are upset because she is not supporting their candidate, Oprah has the right as a American to support whoever she wants for whatever reason she wants........PERIOD. You people do know that Obama is not the first black to ever run for President, remember Al and Jesse. I think what really has those people concern'd is that he is the first black candidate that has a shot at actually winning without her suport, so now that Oprah has decided to support him they are really afraid.
Jessie Jackson and Ale Sharpton are black men’s who ran for president and Opera didn’t endorse or support either one of them, and the Reverent Jessie Jackson is some what personally acquainted with her. But that was not enough to make her campaign for him. She believes in this man Obama, therefore why step on her for believing in someone when it’s so hard to believe in anyone in this day and age.
So many of us have forgotten how wonderful it feels to actually have faith in another human being. I would speak upon the stupidity of all them petty remarks that have been spoken against Opera, but words like that is just as common as the changing of the season and the hatred that runs through our veins is obvious; and its impossible for the obvious to keep on astonishing the unsuspected. Therefore we have became immune to our own self hatred which we always say it’s them and not me. They say 1 out of 4 people in our country is mentally unstable, so look at your 3 closest friends. And if they are alright, then you are f_ _ _ up.
Leave the woman alone and let us just believe in a dream for once in our life, it’s easy if we try.
Ridiculous, why can't some american people move on from the past? If a caucasian representive was running for office and was supported by a celebrity, NOT a SINGLE soul would say a thing about that, BUT when a Brave Courageous African American does such a thing she is condemened whey? Whoever believes oprah is pitting black against white is Clearly racist themselves and should be awed at the bravery and courage of Future president Obama.
Obama isn't the first black candidate to run for president, so it's not about being black, it's about being a great candidate.
To the misguided poster who cited his rant as being "factual" from snopes.com: you *do* realize that, in big bright red letters at the top that page, Snopes declares the e-mail that the rant is copied from as being...FALSE?
Do people read anymore?
Sorry to tell all of you lunatics, but this is not the first time an african-american has tried running for president. Get a clue.
Shoot! I'd support Obama over the other Dem candidates if I were a Dem. I'm not black.
Politics are a lot like the stock market. Some people will say and do anything if they believe they can get some political capital out of it.
I think Oprah did what she thought was right. For her viewers to have a backlash on her, to me it doesn't matter because you know, it wouldn't matter. She thought well enough before she came forth to support him. She also said she had done her homework before she did so. Whoever think Oprah is going to loose by not watching her show is the one loosing.
Let's do some math,
When oprah came out for for Obama, they had over 10k people. So if she looses one viewer then she get 3 of the people who attended the campaign in those three states. Cnn you are saying the obvious here, I mean, what you want us to think...
Over here in Iowa, people feel it will be good to have Obama than Hillar...
I don't understand all this support for Obama. Obama talks well, is a good orator but his record is a big zero. Remember what happened the last time we sent an average person (Bush) to the white house?
want to know why Obama is going to win this thing, between Thursday and this Sunday, Obama will have visited 12 different cities in Iowa to campaign. What does Hillary do, nothing, but go to a fundraiser in NY and then two cities in NH. Next week Obama will swing through NH for few days, back to Iowa for weekend,and will seal the deal for a NH win. After that it is Xmas week and no changes in public opinion and then the Iowa causes, Obama wins and spends 4 intense days of campaigning in NH to eventually emerge winner in NH, then he has 2 weeks to intensely seal the deal in Nevada banking on his success in Iowa and NH. After that he has one week after proving to skeptical blacks in SC that he won in the first three states and there you go on January 26th he wins the SC primaries. He then has 9 days to cover the Feb 5th states that are at risk, he doesnt have to worry about campaigning much in southern states but will work hard in New York to win it or at least get half the delegates. He wont bother about Arkansas coz that is Bill Clinton land. He will focus on the following 9 SuperTueaday states for the 9 days: New York, California, Colorado, Arizona, Minnesota, Idaho, Missouri, North Dakota, Oklahoma and Utah. New Mexico will be Bill Richardson land so why bother. The New england states Connecticut, Delaware, Massacusetts and New Jesery will follow New Hampshire lead and vote for Obama. The southern states Tennessee, Georgia and Alabama will follow south carolina lead and vote Obama. He has it all figured out, who said that a first term senator from illinois was not smart enough to win this thing, watch and see.
Obama 08
I am a black woman who live in south Carolina.
I think Oprah packing them for Obama made me know Obama better than when the media had blocked him for a long long time and telling us about Hillary.
For those who are saying Oprah is racist, why don't we say the white people who are newswriters are racist too on what they post?
Posted By Jeff from Jersey : December 14, 2007 9:56 am
FYI Jeff, this country has had 43 Presidents. Every single one of them was a 'rookie' when they took office.
I am a black woman who live in south Carolina.
I think Oprah packing them for Obama made me know Obama better than when the media had blocked him for a long long time and telling us about Hillary.
For those who are saying Oprah is racist, why don't we say the white people who are newswriters are racist too on what they post?
I am through with Oprah.......Obama is the last candidate I would vote for!!!!. He WON'T Salute the flag or sing the national anthem. What else wont hHE dow if he is elected?
The only racism involved here is with the people suggesting that Oprah only supports Obama because he's black. That is absolutely a ridiculous double standard. Do John Edwards supporters support him because he's white? Do Hillary Clinton's supporters like her because she's a woman? Don't be ignorant.
Had Oprah jumped out in support for CLinton or Edwards she would have been deemed a sell-out. Now that she has chosen to support Obama she's deemed a racist. It's a double edged sword.
I'm so sick of white people in this country trying to use this reverse racism crap everytime a black person supports another black person. I'm astounded by the audacity of white people to call that racism.
Racism is when people hang nooses to terrorize others because the color of their skin. Racism is when people hang people from those nooses because of the color of their skin. Racism is when people are denied equal access to jobs, education, police protection and everything else because of the color of their skin. Racism is not when, in a country where black people have had to suffer through the worst human kind has had to offer, one black person who has made it out of that struggle supports another black person with the vision to lead the rest of the counrty out of the same struggle.
Oprah's support of Obama is definitely not racism. Anyone who tells you that it is, I would consider questioning their racial integrity. It seems that that would rather see us fighting each other than helping each other find a way to reach success in a country that is built upon the premise of black people being at the bottom of society.
What great accomplishments HAS this freshman senator made that would garner Oprah's media mogul support? If it is not his experience, is it any concrete positions or political plan? No...Obama's campaign is based on his personablility and articulate 'pie in the sky' rhetoric, nothing more. Oprah should butt out and do what she's good at...exploring 'feelings and emotions'. You would think a woman of her business savvy would recognize an 'empty suit' when she meets one. Perhaps this is why most of us view her support of Obama as racially motivated.
Did you notice that most of the negative comments are from men? Where they ever watching Oprah in the first place? Or are they just looking to make a political statement too? Maybe her real viewers and fans should voice their opinions.
She didn't support Jesse Jackson when he ran. I'm voting for Obama and I'm white, does that make me a self-hater?
These people get mad when ever ANY celebrity endorses a candidate. Well, except for when it's for THEIR candidate.
True Oprah fans know that was an Obama supporter long before he announced his candidacy. She introduced him on her show in October of 2006 after reading "The Audacity of Hope". I believe this country would get beyond racism if the media didn't attach a race card to every issue they report.
How could Obama inspire anyone? He is an empty shirt saying the same old tired Socialist Democratic crap. He offers nothing new, besides bigger government, higher taxes, more social services, more transfer of wealth from the workers to the non-workers. What on earth is inspiring about that? How about the man who wants to cut government & giver us back more of our paycheck, bring our boys home, stay out of nation building, reduce taxes, and let us do what the hell we want without spying on us. The only man who says he will do that is Ron Paul. Now that is a man who inspires me!
"Don't pit blacks against whites."
Shame on you! This is pretty amusing actually that some people, so called "fans" are hard pressed to baselessly spin this into a racial issue.
Is it now suddenly difficult to believe that someone of the same race and/or gender could actually endorse another based soley on the content of their character? We have other same race and/or gender endorsements presently amongst both GOP and Democratic candidates.
Albeit I am rather upset with Chuck Norris' Endorsement for Huckabee. Hey Chuck, don't pit ninjas against boxers.
I find it so interesting that some posters resent Oprah's use of African American dialect to address black audiences - "affected speech", as one poster called it. Did it ever occur to them that as she is an African American from the South, it's not the black dialect that is affected, it's the Standard English one that, like most of us black professionals, she has to "put on" in public. Why is she not criticized for affecting the speech of suburban white women on a daily basis?
I live in Australia. People here are asking what is wrong with CNN.
The Americans look so bad here. We are wondering if the CNN is electing the president(Hillary) for them.
I am really ashamed to be American over here.
Looks like someone let the asylum gates unlocked overnight. I've never seen such a load of bigoted, racist crap in my life.
Guess it's bad for Oprah to endorse someone and good for Barbara Streisand to do likewise. Let's try to calmly look at a few facts despite the fact far too many will not.
Yes, the crowd in Columbia, SC for Obama and Oprah was, in the majority, black. That's the makeup of the state. What about the majority white crowds in Iowa and New Hampshire?
If you take Oprah at her word, and I have no reason not to, she has clearly stated that she feels Barack Obama is the best candidate for President, not the BLACK candidate for President. Polls in Iowa and NH plus SC show a dead heat between Obama and Clinton. Not black polls, not white polls, just polls.
Some of you had better get over the fact that we may have a bi-racial President or a female one. We also may have another white male one. Disagree on policy, positions, perceived honesty, but we've got to get past racism, fear, and negative campaigning. We've got a lot of problems to solve and hate won't do it.
You're speaking out, Oprah's entitled to that same right.
FYI Jeff, this country has had 43 Presidents. Every single one of them was a 'rookie' when they took office.
Posted By Randy S. Lawton, OK : December 14, 2007 11:25 am
Then you may as well pick a high school teen and send him to the white house because that kid's record would be on par with obama's.
To Rufus, Maywood Illinois:
Please, I IMPLORE YOU, use grammar and spell check before you post again.
Please remember, also, that profanity is a weak mind trying to express itself.
I keep reading that it is suspicious that Oprah would endorse the first black candidate that runs for president. Are we all forgetting Carol Moseley-Braun, Al Sharpton, Jesse Jackson, and even Alan Keyes! Oprah a racist? Oprah has been a bridge over the divide. These suspicions of racism in reality are just envy from non-Obama supporters. Let's not get confused.
It's absolutely amazing the to see the state of mind that lots of our American people take when Oprah decides to take a political stand for something/someone she believes in. Where were these same people when she endorsed Rachel Ray and Dr. Phil or any other mainstream figure she chooses? And by the way, she still supports these people and made them household names because she believed in what they stood for. No complaints there, right?
Last time I checked, Oprah is an American citizen and can support whomever she chooses. What makes her any different from any other celebrity that publically endorses a political candidate? Or is it because Barack Obama happens to be a person of color this time that has lots of her mainstream viewers "uncomfortable"? Seems like as long as her support goes a certain way, things are fine.
Let's get real here. The current administration has set this country back decades on many fronts. Tainted by poor leadership, corruption, scandal, mistrust, and a blank checkbook for an unjustified war. Hard to digest when tens of millions of Americans do not even have healthcare or our childen continue to fall behind the rest of the world in science and math. ALL SHE AND MILLIONS OF AMERICANS WANT IS CHANGE. What's wrong with that? Look at the big picture people. If race is the first thing that comes to mind for you, then take a long look at yourself first.
As an Army Veteran and officer, there was a time when I wouldn't think twice about wearing my uniform when flying overseas. I certainly would not be comfortable with that now. Anti-American sentiment is more now than over half a century. So please think about what is really important here.
In the first place, How do I believe snopes.com, a website that is talking of fraud and scams.
I think people need to know that who ever is writing here even if they are newsmakers what you to believe what they want to believe.
Personally I have not forgotten that CNN was trying to push Hillary down our throat. Obama is very Intelligent that did go to pass without a test which came out to be true.....
I am hoping to have a president that listens and reasons with me like he does!
Obama 08 all the way!
I think it is rather naive to think that race doesn't play a big role in politics. Many criticize Oprah for backing Obama because he is black. So what if she does? Who is to say the last presidents weren't backed by the majority of white people because they were white? Bush II, Clinton, Bush I, Reagan. The last presidents were either "good ole boys" from the south, or cowboys, or both. They were the epitome of white America. People, stop being naive. Oprah should back whoever she wants.
In the first place, How do I believe snopes.com, a website that is talking of fraud and scams.
I think people need to know that who ever is writing here even if they are newsmakers what you to believe what they want to believe.
Personally I have not forgotten that CNN was trying to push Hillary down our throat. Obama is very Intelligent that did go to pass without a test which came out to be true…..
I am hoping to have a president that listens and reasons with me like he does!
Obama 08 all the way!
Posted By suzzy,ft,laud,florida : December 14, 2007 11:41 am
I feel the same way too. It is what CNN want us to think and sure we are thinking the way they want us to. Why stir this up? just wondering.
Wow... look at all the racist Hillary supporters bashing Obama and Oprah.
Oprah has the right to support who ever she thinks is best for this country. What PROOF do any of you have that he choice is based on race? ABSOLUTELY NONE.
Well then, I guess it's a good thing that most of CNN's viewers are white..
This is BAD news for Hillary. To see here and on other blogs that her supporters who are supposed "progressives", "liberals" and "DEMOCRATS" are in actuality just scared racist.
Hillary, is better than her supporters. The people that are mad at Oprah for supporting the half white and half black candiate are upset and hurt that this most successful women in America has betrayed them and supported Obama.
Oprah was not supposed to do this. Just like she wasn't supposed to help the African children. She isn't supposed to acknowledge the fact that she is black. Her success and acceptance was because she was "color blind"
Now they all scream that her support for Obama is convient and is soley based on the color of his skin.
Please, can you all please register REPBLICAN right now. You are all being dishonest in your claims to support Hillary and be democrats when you can't bear the idea of a Strong Black Woman supporting a Strong Black Man.
At least we all know what the republicans think. As for these closet racist, they are with you until you make your voice heard. And that is when it hurts the most.
I am sorry Hillary, you desereve better!
you are the expert on ignorance....
FYI....stop picking fights and get a good therapist
Obama is a smart politician. He starts with the message of positive campaign, hopes, etc and then when he sees that it's not working, he starts attacking Clinton. But by now all people are so immuned to him being negative that they don't even know that he's going negative. Granted Hillary went negative, but she did only after Obama did. She kept saying, "Let's focus our attacks on repubs." But Obama and Edwards kept their attack dog status. So now when Hillary responds, it suddenly becomes negative.
Obama is absolutely one of them. No difference. So, let's vote for someone who can get the WH back, since they're all the same.
Clinton 2008
Obama 2016
Dems, let's get the WH for 16 instead of 8 years. Think long term.!!!!!!!!!!
Attacking Oprah for participating in politics and supporting a black candidate is disingenuous. One cannot argue that when an individual is a celebrity, he/she abdicates his/her civil duty to participate in politics. I believe that Oprah has for the first time found a candidate that is so inspiring and likely to bring change that America wants. To say that Oprah supported Obama because is not only unfair, but also baseless. There have been many black candidates that have run for presidency such as Jesse Jackson, Al Sharpton and Allen Keys. Out of those, Oprah never supported even one. For those playing race cards here, you are putting cards at a wrong place.
THIS POST IS FOR ALL POSTERS WHO BELIEVE OPRAH IS SUPPORTING OBAMA BECAUSE HE IS BLACK/WHITE. IS CHUCK NORRIS SUPPORTING HUCKABEE BECAUSE HE'S IS WHITE, SPEILBURG FOR CLINTON BECAUSE SHE IS WHITE. I FOR ONE AM NOT SUPRISED BY THIS CONVIENT AMNESIA WHEN IT COMES TO WHITES SUPPORTING WHITES. YOUR CREDIBILITY ON THIS SUBJECT HAS NO BARRING IF THE SAME ARGUMENT ISNT USED FOR ALL SUPPORTERS FOR CANDIDATES OF THEIR RACE. YOU CANT HAVE A VALID POSITION IF YOUR POSITION ISNT STANDARD FOR ALL.
As a democrat, I supported Bill Clinton twice, supported Al Gore and John Kerry, because I agreed with their vision for America. Am I black or white? That's my point, thus, I support Barack Obama, because I am black? CNN, shame on you to make a non-story a story. By the way I am a young black educated man, who like Oprah is entitled his own opinion. I didn't vote for Kerry because he was white, so don't insult Oprah's intelligence or mine for voting for Obama because he's black. It won't work.
I don't understand all this support for Obama. Obama talks well, is a good orator but his record is a big zero. Remember what happened the last time we sent an average person (Bush) to the white house?
Posted By UM, Boston, MA : December 14, 2007 11:23 am
I remember that Bush was a governor before becoming president JUST LIKE:
A. Jackson
T. Jefferson
J. Monroe
J. Tyler
M. VanBuren
J.K. Polk
A. Johnson
R. Hayes
G. Cleveland
W. McKinley
W. Wilson
F.D. Roosevelt
R. Reagan
B. Clinton
THEN
G.W. Bush
So are all these 15 other men "average" as well? At least all 16 HAD real experience in governing a state instead of sitting in a chair and saying YEA or NAY (when they bother showing up).
NObama '08 (or ever)
"The Clinton/Rove tactics are being used in full force I see."
Posted By theresa lv : December 13, 2007 7:56 pm
I don't see what Hillary has to do with anything. You Obamanites are true conspiracy theorist. You obviously think Hillary is the root of all evil and you all repeat the same
things over and over in such a cultist, ignorant way, its scary. I used to consider myself a liberal, but I no longer want to be associated with a group of individuals that are unwilling to compromise and listen to other dissenting opinions. You people are just as dangerous as the radial repubs on the right. Not only that, you lose elections for the Dems, look at Nader (and Obama if he wins the canonization, I mean nomination, oops).
Ok. The problem for me is not that she supports a fellow black for president. She can do whatever she wants. The problem is how she stumped for him. Those are two very different things. She took on this very fake, southern-accented, preacher persona and creepily called Obama "THE ONE". She was clearly pandering to the southern black vote, it was disguising to see because it showed her motives. She made it an extension of the civil rights movement when she quoted King ,and I love that speech, but that is not a reason to vote for anyone. Clinton got crucified for pulling the gender card, while Obama so blatantly pulled out the race card and no one really says anything. But were all thinking it.
What is the source of this banal woman's fame except that she gains and loses weight in mercurial fashion? Her so called Book Club could be formed by anyone familiar with paperback racks in airports. If she is important, we don't have to worry about the ascendancy of pop culture. We have to worry about the death of culture.
usa is full hypocrisy because she mentions dr king thats pitting whiotes against blacks? who invented jim crow laws, lynching, slavery, the holocaust. IS KARL RIVE SUPPOSRTING BUSH PITTING WHITES AGAINST BLACKS??? Didnt they say Mcain had a black baby and that help them 2 win. Hatred is evil, evil is Jim Crow, KKK etc.
Point 1: The only reason why some people see COLOR... is because they do.
Racism is a CHOICE. You see COLOR when you want to see COLOR.
Point 2: Since when does an American lose his/her freedom of speech? When he/she becomes a celebrity?
Point 3: Oprah is not "forcing you to vote" for Obama. Exert YOUR OWN DUE DILIGENCE and research about the candidates. After which, let's see if any of the celebritys' speeches can still influence your views. Convert your 'criticism time' to 'research time'.
Point 4: Character assasination tells a lot about the one lashing insults. Offenders just magnify what they really are.
Obama is ALREADY getting things done in washington.
Obama has passed more bills than Hillary Clinton or John Edwards, and has held elected office longer than either Clinton or Edwards.
Obama has experience working in a bipartisan way to get (among many other things) strong ethics bills passed in Illinois, and now in the us senate.
I like the fact that Obama has experience in lawmaking but NOT as much in washington "working the system" (s Hillary called it). He is also a constituional law expert, and has the respect of his republican associates.
Obama has the constitutional law knowledge to repair the damage done to the constitution by this administration, and the know how- to be bipartisan to get the support of republicans in order to get things done.
Look up Obama"s record and history. He is more qualified than Hillary Clinton or John Edwards to be president.
Obama is experienced, has great judgement, is smart, level-headed, and qualified to be president.
These are the reasons Oprah and so many others support Obama.
All this talk about Oprah "pitching blacks against whites" by her endorsing of, and stumping for, Barack Obama is PURE NONSENSE!!! And for the ignorant and shallow-minded amongst us: BARACK OBAMA IS NOT THE FIRST BLACKMAN to run for a Presidential nomination. Other black men (Jesse Jackson and Al Sharpton are recent examples) have attempted it in the past, but guess what? Oprah NEVER ENDORSED any of them. This should be proof enough, for anybody in their right mind, that this is more about the UNIQUE PERSONAL QUALITIES that Sen. Obama brings to this race (which is lacking in American politics today!), rather than the color of his skin. The real racists are those trying to smear Oprah, by making this a racial issue.
Why are her fans so upset? She has the freedom to support Obama just as Chuck Norris has the freedom to support Mike Huckabee. Give her a break and let her exercise her right without scrutiny. And honestly, I don't see any racial tone in her words. She was just speaking the truth. 40 years ago, blacks had a hard time voting and now we have a black man who might run for President because he is qualifications.
You know,if Oprah and Obama were viewed as simply Americans instead of "Blacks" this whole issue would be non-exsistant. I mean, no one's critisizing or calling Chuck Norris a racist for backing Huckabee only because he's white!
White America continually gernalizes ourseleves as "Americans" while insisting on isolating and/or singling out Black-Americans as just that, BLACK 1st AMERICAN SECOND.
How sorely we miss you Dr. King.
Well if Ms. Winfrey can tell her fans to run out and buy ‘A Million Little Pieces’, and they do, and then tell them, once she finds out it was fake, to despise the author utterly, and they do, I think she’s got some clout. All she has to do is start saying on her show, ‘and by the way, vote for Obama’, and I bet they will. Oprah is a massive media force nowadays, Obama is really lucky he’s got her as a supporter rather than as competition.
Frank Denver CO – You are what I like to call a classic hater. You are probably upset because shes got more money than you could ever dream and that you werent in the audience to get a gift. Like she said as an American citizen she has the right to get involved with politics. Its funny that no one ever says anything when other celebs endorse other candidates. But the moment she decides to act on her American right she gets criticized for it. You really need to look at that.
What is really amusing is the reference to Obama's "lack of experience." And what, precisely, qualifies Ms. Clinton to be President of the United States, other than the dubious distinction of having slept with a President of the United States?
I also found Oprah's corny "black lingo" irritating, but I do admire her and she can endorse any candidate she wants. The suggestion that she chose Obama because of skin color is absurd.
Do you think Oprah is dumb? Do you really think she's align herself with someone like Al Sharpton or Jessie Jackson? She would be a laughing stock! Just because she DIDN'T Get behind those two doesn't prove that she's NOT racist. It's says she' both smart AND racist. She would only back a black candidate who could win. She would never be involved with a candidate who couldn't win. Doesn't prove she's NOT racist.
Is anyone really surprised? Many popular celebrities, like Oprah, honestly believe that their success in entertainment makes them experts in all other areas of human endeavor. When I heard she was stumping for one of the 2008 candidates, I knew it would be for either the woman or the black candidate. Her decision to stump for Obama shows me that Oprah is first – black and second – female. The Dr King comment just shows her transparency in the matter. Be glad the Dr King reference happened early so that everyone can see her true ‘colors’ from the beginning.
Oprah is the most powerful and influential woman in America. Pelosi, Rice, and Billary bow to her!…j/k
But the fact of the matter is that “Oprah’s influence sways voters”. She is a candidates best ally in a general election because of the female population that follows her.
Oprah says read this book…they read that book.
Oprah says this guy is a jerk…that guy is now a jerk
Oprah says vote for this guy because I think he is the greatest…that guy wins
If it meant good for him, let him go for it!
Do you think Oprah is dumb? Do you really think she's align herself with someone like Al Sharpton or Jessie Jackson? She would be a laughing stock! Just because she DIDN'T Get behind those two doesn't prove that she's NOT racist. It's says she' both smart AND racist. She would only back a black candidate who could win. She would never be involved with a candidate who couldn't win. Doesn't prove she's NOT racist.
Thank you Frank!! (Posted By Frank Denver CO : December 13, 2007 7:39 pm) You are absolutely correct about Oprah. She buys her way to people for popularity. She is a JOKE! Go with gail Oprah and stop acting like you know that black people will vote for Obama. Not all black people and women are going to vote for Obama. We don't want a balck president in office!!!
Because Oprah’s appeal cuts across so many demographic groups – black, white, wealthy, middle income, urban, suburban – her endorsement is huge. And it serves to reinforce exactly that characteristic that Obama mentions frequently in his speeches, about the country needing to come together.
I can understand why she came out to bat for Obama, but in so doing, she is telling Black women like herself that our everyday bread and butter issues are not as important as a Black man getting elected, a message she herself completely ignored in her climb to the top.
Well I am a proud Black woman and I disapprove that message!
I've never liked Oprah, until now. She made the choice she believed was right based on the qualifications she's looking for in the LEADER OF THE FREE WORLD. She didn't do it because of race or gender. To imply otherwise, is insulting. So to everyone who is offended by Oprah: Why don't you worry more about researching the candidates and VOTING for the one you think will best lead America.
I hope everyone remembers that Obama is indeed half white. Why is that never mentioned? Or in any respect, why should any of that matter?
Obama wants to aid many who feel ignored,period!
The idea that Oprah is supporting Obama because he is black is an essentially racist one. Why is it that when a black person sounds their support for another black person, it is instantly thought of as racially motivated. On the other hand, when a white person does the same for another white person, we begin to look for other higher-minded reasons. Isn't that insulting to blacks? I mean, is Barbra Streisand a racist because she supports Hilary? Or is Sean Hannity racist because he supports – though he has yet to admit it – Guiliani? ... Wait, this gets a bit tricky becuse we know he is racist for other reasons, of course.
I knew this would happen, If she supports Clinton she's prejudice too I guess since she's a woman? Go figure. How many men presidents have there been in this county? Don't answer that. And how many men voted for them? Now how many of those men were white? Hey don't answer that one either. How many whites and blacks and greens or yellows or purple or blue voted for them? Now does that mean everyones prejudice or do we support the candidates that have the courage and best interest of the people. People I'm Black. I am a man, and would you believe so far my vote is with Billary. Yes I said Billary. I know part of the reason she gets my vote is Bill. So does this make me prejudiced against men and blacks. I think this is another political ploy against what must be a good candidate for president. This endorsement should not divide, but bring to focus the qualities of Obama. I might have to take another look. I don't like the politics being play on people's minds on the race issue.
And in any case, you bigoted simpletons, Obama is as white as he is black. Or are we still using the one-drop rule?
To think that by endorsing Obama, Oprah is drawing lines and making it racially driven is not seeing the bigger picture. The only think Oprah is doing by endorsing Obama is making more people, namely, her fans, endorse him. Sadly, this is why politicians and "Hollywood" if you will get together. Saying that this is why I disagree with actors and actress being overly vocal about their political affiliations. The American people have negatively evolved into a state of numbness and unless someone familiar to their everyday lives, like a celebrity, endorses a politician, little attention is paid to that candidate.
What it all comes down to is The American voters need to wake up and make up their own minds rather than have other people do it for them.
Wow the children will play here CNN
"OPRAH BROUGHT THEM"
"OBAMA TAUGHT THEM"
Children didn't your mother tell you to play nice ?
Prejudice doesn't work for anyone.
We need a
PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
not a divider attacking the right
Thank you Oprah for putting yourself out there to help Barack educate others of ALL COLORS
My note was one of the first ones posted. It was being "moderated" for two days and then removed. Why? Too critical of Oprah? We'll see; I'm going to retype it and send it off to see if CNN has the acorns to post it this time:
Oprah can be as offended as she wants! It doesn't change the fact that she stood up there shouting in Baptist preacher cadence that now we get to vote Martin Luther King's dream into reality. Obama then shouted out (in the same fake black "preacher" dialect) that he is running because of King's belief in "the fierce urgency of now". I am white and I love Martin Luther King for all he said, did, and dreamed. . .a courageous man who dared to bring civil rights to the very front of America's consciousness. Thankfully his work helped pave the way for all black people, including Obama, his wife, and Oprah to receive the educations they did and achieve the success they now enjoy. But don't try playing the race card during this very important election. It's a huge turn-off to millions of voters. We want a president who looks beyond color to what is best for everyone in our nation. We want one who will start repairing our battered image around the world so we can once again be a strong, compassionate force on the world stage. Oprah was especially stupid to try to make this about race (and Obama wasn't too swift, either, for going along with it). She can deny it all she wants and be offended. . .blah. . . blah. . .blah but, in the end, she is a racist and jumped onto Obama's bandwagon because she saw an opportunity to support a black candidate and (she hoped) a black agenda. Nice going, Oprah. I used to be a fan but now view you and your boring touchy-feely progam as a waste of my time. Hopefully all this will eventually lead to the downfall of Queen Oprah. As for Obama, he will reap the fallout from Oprah's big racist maneuver.
I used to work in the building where Oprah lives. She is not a nice person and she is definitley not the person you see on tv. She is 100% fake.
If Oprah backed Hillary the only folks who will be screaming "Girl Power" would be the Clinton camp. This is nothing but swift boating at its finest. Bill Clinton is now running this campaign and he's been reported as being pissed at how Hillary's campaign has been ran. So now lets swift boat Obama and say Oprah is racist and try to steal some voters back our way!
Not one Obama supporter stopped supporting Obama after Oprah jumped on the scene. All Oprah did was pull more people who wouldnt even look into politics and had them take another look at Obama. Oprah is too smart and Im pretty sure she knew the 'racist' crap would come out. Its the nature of true racist to not support someones true American right to support anyone they choose. Its like Oprah has no right to support her friend from chicago.
Oprah Winfrey cannot win in this case. She backs Barack Obama, she's a racist and if she backs Hillary Clinton, she's sexist. So, she chose to back the candidate she finds most qualified for the position. There really should be nothing wrong with that.
Winfrey just proved that there is a race separation invilved in this political atmosphere. She would have done Obama better to keep her mouth shut. Just because she has ammased millions of dollars, does not make her any more wise than the american people. Her influence should and does have negative effect. She is dividing black against white. No matter how much she quotes Dr. King. Ophra is not the answer to the mess we have in this country. She is causing it to get worse!
I happen to be a black supporter of John Edwards. Although I won’t be voting for Obama in our upcoming caucus, I am outraged at the reaction regarding Oprah’s support of his campaign.
It’s funny how no one is accusing Chuck Norris of being racist for jumping into politics for the first time and supporting Huckabee nor are they accusing John Mellencamp for his support of the Edwards campaign. What a double-standard.
Just when I was beginning to believe we as a country had made strides toward racial equality, comments like the ones I’ve read here bring me back to reality.
Did she campaign for Al Sharpton? Jesse Jackson? Alan Keyes? I will admit that race must be part of the motivation, but it isn't the primary motivator, or she would have endorsed a candidate long ago. PAY ATTENTION PEOPLE!
For all those who said she hasn't campaigned for any white person – well, she hasn't been this passionate about any white person. GET OVER IT! If you don't support her candidate of choice then don't vote for him. She's not forcing you to vote for her candidate, she's simply endorsing him. Sort of like how other people have endorsed other candidates. I don't here anyone complaining about Chuck Norris endorsing another white candidate (Mike Huckabee) and even appearing in one of Huckabee's commercial. So why are you upset about Oprah's support?
I don't think her support has anything to do with her being racist. If it were that simple, she would have endorsed Jesse Jackson and Al Sharpton when they ran for office. She obviously sees more in this man than just his color and it's also beyond the fact that they both reside in Chicago.
"Oprah says it's not about race. When is the last time she campaigned like this for a white candidate?"
Remember that the last two nominees were John Kerry and George Bush. Why would Oprah want to speak up for them? We were doomed in '04. What an ignorant blind fold you all choose to wear.
With Obama we have a chance to make a difference, and Oprah recognizes that.
Obama is just as much white as black and that is why he is appealing to all groups of American citizens. In 2007, why do many white Americans ignore his European heritage? Obama will win because the majority of Americans endorse his political views which supercedes his "race".
For those who suggest that Oprah is racist because "she never backed a candidate before until a Black man was running," should think about what you say before you say it. How ignorant is it to say that because she supports Obama, it makes her racist? To my knowledge, she did not come out and support Jesse Jackson in his past presidential bids...Did not support Alan Keys when he made his run. The people who make these accusations are TRULY the people who are racist, and should stop...
O.K...Oprah for Obama cause he'e black, Joely Fisher for Clinton cause she's a women. Ben Stiller for Edwards cause he's white. Steve Forbes for Giuliani cause he's rich. WOW, I could just keep on making accusations, causing headlines and never care at all about whether they could run the country. I didn't realize how much seperatism has become a national pastime. Why is it about who gets to steal rights from one interest group and give them to another. Well, It really boils down to just two interest groups these days folks; that's people who have to work for a living and people that reap the economic rewards of those that work. I've heard candidates talk of changing this for 40 years now and that kind of change never comes. What makes you think any Dem or GOP tied to money will ever correct this? Way past time for someone to represent the overwhelming majority of workers in this nation. Listen closely and vote your heart.
I find it comical that people are upset by this. It is very clear that these candidates must do anything they can to get votes. All of them have redeeming qualities, but if they do not try to win the election then they won't get it. And the Mainstream Media is not favoring Hillary Clinton, they are favoring whoever gets them a good story at the time. They love to see a change in the polls and favorable stories have been written about both and unfavorable stories have been written about both. If anything, the mainstream media is more poll driven than any of the candidates. I am glad the race appears to be closer than what it used to be. It is unfortunate that some people will decide based on poll numbers rather than their head and heart. I find it hard to believe that Hillary Clinton deserves 43% of the votes and Biden only 3%. I bet more people would support Biden like candidates, but they just feel like they don't have a chance to win. But why would they think that???
Good Afternoon,
To all those who bash Oprah and Obama because oh her support for him are completly lost. I am not surprised to see how many racists and haters of black on black support in here. Would you like it if we black people continued to kill each other and not do anything to better ourselves? Probably. The people on here support Hilary Clinton or you are just a plain old racist. The point has been made but if Oprah went out for Hilary, the enitre female population and many whites would have nothing to say. Also, people on here keep saying that by Oprah brining up the Rev. Dr. Maartin Luther King Jr.'s dream that she is a racists and that is why you stopped watching her. Great. first, Dr. King's dream was not about black people getting the edge over whites. It was about all races living in harmony and having love for one another. Obama is the only candidtae that can bring th races together like Dr. King wanted. You must be thinking about Malcom X who openly stated that he did not care for whites. So, get you facts straight first. Secondly, Oprah can care less about you and your little TV. She is wealthy beyond your dreams. A few viewers here and there don't matter. Save your drama. Hell, she could lose her show and still be wealth. And if she is supporting him because he is black so what! Whites have done it for centuries. So when black people do it we are wrong. It just goes to show that you whites and racist HRC supporters still wish we were slaves because you fear that we have become what you most feared: Independent, smart, educated, and successful. Now that she supports Barak, oh she is so wrong and now she is so black. You people kill me. I would respect you more if you just came out and said I hate black people. But, when Barak becomes the next President and you benefit from it regardless of your color, you will be kissing his feet. when Sharpton and Jackson ran for President, I had no intention on supporting them. I accept them as educated people but just because they are black doesn't mean I have to vote for them. Hell, I don't even agree with them. Stop being afraid of change and the good it could bring this country. You are afraid of the hispanics, afraid of the blacks, be honest, you just want to keep America for yourselves don't you? Well it wasn't yours to begin with. Let go of your racial hatred of these two wonderful people. Accept the change. Hilary Clinton will lose. We are taking all the educated and independant women back from the liar HRC. We are taking back all the people who are blinded by HRC's rhetoric. And we are taking back this country from racial tyranny and hatred as has existed with all U.S presidents. Even the not so greta William Jefferson Clinton. The Only Clinton that will ever be president. Oh, and to the women who support Hilary, stop being so emotional and writing these posts out of anger that the Oprah didn't support a woman. Your just as bad as the Klan with your crying. Your like the WKKK but you hate men. You all are truly crazy. If this is the America that my kids will be growing up in then we all are doomed. Maybe a race war and or revolution is what we need to rid this country of the like of the posters on here.
Obama 08'
I'm not an Oprah fan, not because I don't like her but because I don't like talk shows. And as far as celebrities coming out for political candidates, that's fine if they know what they're talking about. It's a free country and they can say whatever they want.
I will have to take a stand, though, if Britney Spears or Paris Hilton come out in support of a political candidate – even if it's someone I support. The two of them don't have a brain together and, unlike Oprah, they wouldn't have a clue what the issues are, let alone how they stand on them.
To celebrities as well as to everyday people I say: if you don't know what's going on, don't vote.
Lori from Woodland is absolutely right. And shame on CNN if they felt it was too biting a comment to not post the first go-around. Freedom of speech.
Great just what this country needs... a racist, drama queen talk show host telling the American people who needs to be president. Taking Oprah seriously is like trying to take Katie Couric seriouly???? Give me a break. Do we want a president that needs a talk show host for votes????????????
I READ MANY OF OPRAH BOOKS. THE BOOKS SHE BACKS UP IN HER CLUB, DOES NOT MATCH HER ACTIONS, AND ATTITUDE, THAT SHE IS DIONG FOR OBAMA. I WATCH IT ON TV SHE TALKS AND SOUNDS VERY DIFFERENT. HER ACTIONS POINTS DIRECTLY ABOUT RACE. I NEVER SAW THAT IN HER UNTIL SHE DID THIS. SHE IS ABOUT COLOR. VERY SADLY SAID
I lost respect for Oprah back in 2003 when she crossed the line stumping on her show for Arnold Schwarzenegger. Many believe that's what swung that questionable election. Until then I was a daily viewer and avid fan. I am not surprised she again "searched her soul" and decided to do the same for Obama. Yes, she has the right, but I don't think it's responsible.
I wanted to add my thoughts on a few of the arguments posed by others (and I'm no expert). First of all, yes we all know that CNN leans to the left of the political spectrum. But we need that to balance out other far right leaning newsgroups like Fox News. Second, it disgusts me how many americans turn everything into a race issue in this country. You see it everywhere from politics to sports. Last I checked the majority of us are all Americans regardless of color. I am white, about as white as it gets but I support Obama because I think he really is looking to change things. Second, I think the issue people have with Oprah "stumping" for Obama is the way in which she expressed herself rather than whom it was for. As others have pointed out she was clearly addressing the black community in her speach. You could tell that in her tone, grammer and style of speech. She's been accused of this before. She has a tendency to use an "urban" style when addressing blacks audiences as compared to addressing a white audience. Wether its intentional, who knows? Many people are guily of this, white or black, you try to make the people your addressing relate to you however you can.
I initially liked Obama and thought he mad a lot of sense, but have been moving completely in an opposite direction since several major evens. First was the Jena fiasco. It was totally wrong to put up the noose, but the white kid was almost beat to death! No one protested the beating! Things like this hurt Obama, because whites see the election of Obama just making race relations worse.
Then you get someone like Opra making statements like Dr King dreamed this and Obama will make it happen. We are really pitting blacks against white. We should be concerned about issues not creating a race war. Justice is justice. The people responsible for killing the young black boy at the camp should have gone to jail! We have to correct those injustices as whites and blacks, not try to divide the country like Opra and Jena demonstraters are.
Lenny Audino
Wynne, Ar
I am a soldier that has been deployed 3 times and it makes me sick for people to think that race has to be a part of everything. I am a white soldier and I have very many black friends that I am proud to call friends. It doesn't matter if the President is white, black or green, as long as they take care of the country they are charged to do with just like President Bush has done. Whomeever it is, has huge shoes to fill
Noone ever said Regan should no run for govenor or president because he is an actor. Oprah has a right to endorse whoever she wants too and to all you people that were fans and say you are not now because she endorsed a black candidate...Grow Up. There has been and still are plenty of actors endorsing Hillary and all the other white candidates. Either you people are jealous or just plain racist.
Barack Obama
"Well, Hillary, I'm looking forward to you advising me, as well."
Again, as you can read Mr. Obama can’t stand on his own merits, he needs to count on other people’s knowledge (as Hillary) to hold his hand.
If Hillary is so, back to the 90s, why event think that she would make a great adviser?
I can bet, that you will not read from any of the other candidates; saying that they will consult Mr. Obama for his experience on any subject.
A vote for Mr. Obama will only take us back to where we are now (Remember the Uniter (Mr. Bush). This is the same situation with Mr. Obama. Someone else will be running the country, and he will be making excuses for them (Cousin, Mr. Cheney).
Mr. Obama thinks that he will get to the White House, and have the time to sit around singing kumbaya and spend a few years learning to make hard decisions.
Mr. Obama is a Charismatic Leader (Those who seem to be "Natural Leaders" and effectively inspire groups without really knowing the strategies or tactics used).
As for Mr. Edwards, after all his personal attacks on Mrs. Clinton; he is a Follower (May apply to people who attach themselves either to the person or beliefs of another). He was not running with the populist message the last election (Today the term "populism" is often used both by journalists and politicians as a vague, frequently pejorative description, whether to describe vote-grabbing measures and rhetoric or in connection with new right-wing nationalist movements as well as many left-wing socialist movements).
Mrs. Clinton has what I call Military leadership (The process of influencing others to accomplish the mission by providing purpose, direction, and motivation).
Mrs. Clinton has all the experience and expertise required to hit the ground running. She will be able to listen to her advisers and make the best decisions for the USA. She has the foundation to know if the staff is only telling her what they think she wants to hear. And what you erroneously call mean, I call being assertive.
I don’t know how you will vote, but think about the world that we live in. This is really a global community, and Mrs. Clinton has the INTERNAL FORTITUDE to reach across party lines, across communities, across the world and work hard to get things done for all humanity.
My vote will be counted for Mrs. Clinton.
It amazes me the reaction from white folks. No question if she was supporting Hillary or some other white candidate, she would continue to be a favorite amongst her white audience, a.k.a., "her bread and butter". Anytime she discusses race or her travels to Africa, immediately she is branded a racist. But when you have Dr. Oz, Bob Green, Dr. Phil and all of these other whites she's promoted on her show every week, no white person has a problem whatsoever. To the white folks who thinks she's an outright racist, where is it written that she has to be loyal to you and your race at all times? This is an independent woman who can do whatever she chooses with or without your approval. If she looks for a candidate who she believes can make a difference, then let her believe it! All of this has to be the most stupidest and asinine beliefs I have ever heard! This is taking ridiculous to a whole other level. Like one poster said, how come this question isn't posed when whites support white candidates. No one has yet to answer that question, and my guess, that question will be avoided. Bottom line, these are the fears of majority white people rising up again. Note to the naysayers: GET OVER IT!!
Oprah is doing nothing wrong. She is supporting the person that can
do the best job! It doesn't really matter if your black or white what
matters is having a President that is going to make a difference! And that is
why Oprah is backing OBAMA! Someone that will put old politics aside,
someone with new fresh ideas. It's been the same politics for years we do
not need Billary back in the white house, Lord knows we don't so why don't
you all realize that.
Like Oprah said "HE (OBAMA) IS THE ONE!" .
What's most disappointing to me is the fact that Oprah would back such an un-electable candidate. I thought she was smarter than that. Obama is naive, uninformed, inexperienced, and unable to answer an intelligent question without a script. It's unfortunate that Oprah is not insightful enough to place her support behind a candidate that is capable of leading us out of the Bush crisis, which is the real problem facing the world today. Bush has destroyed our country and the lives of countless Americans. At the very least, both Clinton and Edwards have the political chops to start digging us out, and rebuilding our country – both from the inside out, and in terms of the way the international community sees us. Obama is a joke. I've been a lifelong Democrat, and would consider relocating to Canada should he be elected. There is nothing presidential about him. I believe for most jobs, experience is actually required. I assume the US presidency should be no exception.
Hmmmm, why don't I see this same outcry when a white person supports another whiter person? Am I to believe that whenever someone supports someone of the same race, that person is racist? There must sure be alot of racist white people then...
Oprah stood up! If more Americans would stand up for what is right and good and just our country would not be in the trouble we are in. We are a democracy, of the people, for the people, and by the people!
Obama 08!
I lost all respect for Oprah long ago. When it became apparent that if OPRAH says it it has to be true and you must read it, do it, follow her beliefs. She has the "only I can say this and it be true" attitude. her and Gail her mouthpiece. She made a point to sound "Black". Bet she doesn't speak that way in her Santa Barbara Mansion or town. She moved in with the rich whites. When one person thinks they have so much money they can BUY the presidency we truly are lost. This country has sunk to a new low. I thought George Bush had done all the damage possible but now we have Oprah buying a candidates way into the presidency an one with no experience whatsoever when this country needs someone who at the very least knows their way around to try to get us out of some of this horrific mess we are in. I will vote republican or hopefully Independent should we get a candidate before I would vote for Obama. Liked him at first but when he went on his screeching attack showing his immaturity he lost me and now Oprah put the lid on the coffin.
Let me make sure I understand. Oprah is black, and Obama is black, so Oprah must be a racist if she supports him? Hmm. Wait a minute - Barbra Streisand is white, and Hillary Clinton is white, and Streisand supports Clinton. Streisand is a racist! And white Tim Robbins supports white John Edwards! Uh-oh, guess he's a racist too.
Use your brains, people.
You're right on – Frank from Denver. 'o' buys her audience !!
I have watched Oprah since Chicago days and it is my belief that she has lost her mind several years back. Her ego is the size of her bank account.She thinks she walks on water.
Oprah has always been a fan of Obama since first hearing him speak and since reading his books, so I understand her support of him. That said, it is suspect especially with the dialect Oprah choses to use while stumping for Obama. It does make you think....and to talk about him as if he is "The Chosen One", is going just a little too far. Obama is not ready to run this country. He may be in 4 or more years. As much as I really like Biden and hoped his numbers would be higher, Hillary is the only one that can beat the Republicans . This country is in dire need of help and if we do not get it in the form of a Democratic President, we might all consider moving to other countries. We are in dire shape . Please Demos. vote for Hillary...it is our only chance!
Thank You Oprah!. It speaks volume. We all know Obama will do a Great Job when he becomes President. It is time someone looks out for the middle class.
I think the issue is that she never supported any candidates in the past. Had she campaigned for Gore in 2000, we may never have had a "Bush" administration. Had she campaigned for Kerry in 2004, the war in Iraq may have already ended. Both those elections were narrowly won by President Bush. Now, Oprah comes out with her support for Obama (the only African American candidate) and just a short time before the Iowa Caucuses. A very good strategy....but I can understand why many view this from the racial perspective.
My Dear Supporters,
Here are your marching orders.
1) Mention Obama's race as often as possible, the Republican southern strategy works, let's use race-baiting to our advantage.
2). Diminish Oprah's support by repeating Step 1, while also mentioning that Oprah's skin color is closer to Obama's that your own.
3) Even though you're at work when 'Oprah' comes on, shout out as often as possible that you will not watch Oprah's show again.
4) Imply that Oprah herself is racist because she never publicly hasn't shown her affirmative action on a white politician before.
5) Go on as many blog sites as possible and repeat Steps 1 thru 5.
6). Use the words 'Inexperienced' in association with Obama. People will buy that because he is thin, young and doesn't have to dye his hair yet. Never ever, mention that Obama was a community organiser, professor of constitutional law, a state senator before becoming a u.s. senator.
7) Frequently state that I Am 'experienced' because I was a first lady for 20 years in arkansas and the WH before becoming a u.s. senator. Sleeping with Bill does have it perks.
8) Imply that Obama is a drug dealer, you know like all those other young, thin, non-hair dyed black guys on 'The Wire'.
9) Now go forth and have some 'Fun'.
Signed,
Your Inevitable Highness
Oprah has a right to back anyone she chooses. But please, if you don't think race has anything to do with this, just listen to Chris Rock's comments to the crowd in Harlem as he introduced Barack. How did it go, "We don't want to wake up one morning and think, 'Why did I vote for that white chick'". That white chick!! Nah, race doesn't have anything to do with this race.
Are you serious!? Making Oprah out to be a racist just because she felt compelled to support someone with a new apporach to politics? Clearly, all those people who saw this as a black vs white thing have their own issues about race and probably always will.
Fortunately, more enlightened commentors aren't buying the whole "race" thing. Our hope is for a more open and inclusive society. One where aggression and divisiveness aren't the calling card of a great country but rather exemplary leadership. Should Oprah lose viewers as a result of her support for Obama? Yes, if those viewers are offended by the notion of a candidate who wants to be president of all Americans and who just happens to be black.
You people have to be kidding me. "What was the last time she supported a candidate like this who was white?" What was the last time she supported ANY candidate, black or white? It does not matter what the candidates skin color is. I am a white American who supports Obama whole heartedly. It is about time there is a candidate who wants to change the face of American politics. It is the people who are insisting there is a race line here that are holding America back.
I never cared for Oprah or her show to begin with and I don't really need her to tell me about Obama.I can think for myself.
Rachel, Lincoln, NE/Storm Lake said, I commend Oprah for going out on the campaign trail and speaking her mind. I have never understood why it is considered a crime that celebrities be politically involved. As an American citizen it is not only your right and privilege but also your responsibility to be politically active. By campaigning for Obama, Oprah was only fulfilling that responsibility.... I applaud Oprah for her attempts to bring more attention to an election as important as this.
Agreed. What's the difference between Oprah stumping for Obama, me stumping for Obama, or John in Euless stumping for Clinton?
The only difference, and it's huge, is that the net positive impact from Oprah’s support is so much more potent. THAT is why so many people are irate–she's threatening the odds that their candidate (and by proxy, they) will win.
Oprah probably will lose viewers, which to my mind makes her decision to get involved that much more noble. Unlike Oprah, John and I aren’t going to lose anything for our public support.
I will give Oprah the benefit of the doubt as to the racial aspect because Senator Obama is from Illinois, and a lot of people tend to support the home state candidate. She just happens to be Chicago's most resident, her support has a lot of weight.
However, as Oprah will learn, is what many other celebrities have learned is that there is a price to backing any side. You naturally have fans who feel the opposite way, and they will feel hurt and betrayed, and they may tune the celebrity out.
I don't know if that will happen. As a Chicagoan, I voted for Senator Obama in 2004, but I don't feel that he has enough experience for the Presidency. But in the primary I will probably vote for him anyways (although I don't support his candidacy) because he is from my state.
I believe that what Oprah is doing is what she should be doing to help fulfill the dream we've never had. It's not fair that we've only had presidents of one color in office even if they didn't have the qualifications required. If Obama fits the image of the American dream why shouldn't she be allowed to support her choice even if she's never done so in the past.
Ophrah needs to stay out of politics!
I doubt she has a real handle on some of the important issues that we are facing as a country ! Being a talk show host doesnt really qualify her as being an expert on health care or global warming in my book ! And, yes, I am white ! But, I feel lets let the candidates fight this out ! Let the better man or woman prevail, red blue green brown or white!
I am a white male and I didn't know Obama was black until today
I thought he was white. Why half black and half white mean black. Chuck Norris endorsing the republican Mike Huckabee that's racist too america. Bill Clinton endorsing his white wife that's something too america. Let Oprah support the white man Obama...I guest the black since(half white mean black)...America we are in 2008...ignorance is no longer allow expecially with google out there
So Marie from Las Vegas - were you one of the Hillary supporters instructed to BOO at Edwards and Obama at that notorious CNN debate last month? You don't fool me for one minute with your I-used-to-like-them-but-now remarks. Can't your handlers script you with anything original to say?
Oprah is for Womens Rights and to help empower women/ but our first chance to get a woman in the whitehouse Oprah backs a man! How disapointing! As her fan I am disapointed in her because of that!
There is quite a long list of "celebrities" that support Hillary Clinton, too. Any backlash there? Are women supporting Hillary only because she is a woman? I think many are.
What about Bill Clinton? He's been dragged out several times on Hillary's behalf, particularly for damage control.
Oprahis free to support and to cotribute to anyone she chooses. At least her money is clean, and we know where it came from, unlike the Clintons and all their dirty money. Google Norman Hsu, Peter Paul, and Stan Lee.
I am very glad that people finally see the real thing that is happening. I am not really sure what Oprah is trying to accomplish. She is a showbiz period. What more popularity? She does not need to. Oprah has her own world. I know it all along that people of the United States will be paying attention this very serious and important election of our lives. Fortunately as I hve always been saying, we are smart voters and maybe I would say intelligent voters. We are not swayed by celebrities. We can be okay to like Oprah as celebrity but not politically. I will vote and I know people of the United States will vote for the best qualified, experienced candidate. And I know for sure that people see Obama not ready for this very serious position of our country. I am not against Obama but I look at this election as important as my life, and I think people thin it the same way. In the democratic side, I think Clinton is so far the best qualified candidate. And I believe Clinton can win. People are tired of the Republicans. When they were in control of the House and Senate, our country is just getting worst. Have you heard about the tapes being destroyed? I am so worried if a Republican will win. I hope that Democrats will continue to contro the House and Senate so that they can clean up the mess.
Saying that Oprah is supporting Obama because of his race is ridiculous. All sorts of white people support white politicians and they are not "pitting black against white" Maybe Oprah is supporting Obama because they both have names starting with "O" or maybe you should all just find some thing better to do. And besides that other black people have run for president (Reverend Al Sharpton) and Oprah did not support him.
As a 73 y.o. white woman who has long been part of the civil rights movement I applaud Oprah for backing Obama whether it is racially motivated or not. My question is: will American really elect either a woman or a Black person? There is still a great deal of hidden sexism and racism. We are beginning to see it.
Oprah did an amazing thing for herself and Obama by endorsing him and his campaign for wanting to change our world for the better.She spoke up and told the world her beliefs about Obama and expressed her hopes in Obama. He is an amazing man and she wants the world to recognize that. Some people still don't get it though, do they?
Who cares. She has let fame go to her head. She thinks she can influence the little people to blindly follow her. She is a manipulator. She appeals to one group in her show and another when campaining.
As far as Oprah is campaigning for Obama. There is no problem with me. I vote for the candiate that is best qualified. This country needs someone that has the experience and knowledge. A celebrity campaigning for a candidate does not mena anything to me and I know the people of the United States feel or thin the same way. We have our ouw mind and intellectual capability to vote. If we vote because a celebrity is campaigning a candidate, than we rather make all elections run by celebrities. But I know it is not going to happen. Every individual has his/her own place. Celebrities for showbiz and people inclined politically and always been in politic, they have their won place. I am not swayed by who campaigned but I am more seriously interested who can rebuild our country.
I guess any white person who supports any of the other candidates is racist too? I watched her speech at the Obama rally – it was not racial at all, I was inspired as a white person. I would bet these comments are posted by Hilary's campaign.
It's about time for the US to have a black or woman president. I am a white male who is keenly aware of just how inept the system of whiteness is in this country and others. I support Oprah's decision to back Obama. He is the best chance we have for a badly needed momentum shift. It's long overdue for white males to take a backseat and let someone else drive.
Oprah did not stump for Jesse Jackson when he ran in 88, she did not stump for Alen Keys when he ran in 2000 so to say that she is only doing this because Obama is black is stupid. He is a front runner exciting candidate that would make a far better President than the person running the country currently. Plus he represents a change from the Clintons and Bushes that have run this country for most of my life. I am proud of Oprah for taking a stand. Republicans use the media to their benefit all the time with people like Rush Limbaugh and the Christian Colalition so it is about time the Demacrats start using the big guns to get out a message of change.
Let's not forget that Obama is just as much WHITE as he is black. He was raised by his white mother. Get off the black-white issue people! Oprah can support whomever she likes just like any other celebrity. It's very un-American of those who are bashing her or anyone else for supporting the candidate of their choice.
The self-righteous indignation of some of the individuals posting comments would be laughable if they were not so disturbing. First of all, it is not uncommon for a person originally from the south to easily fall back into the accent while back in the south. Also, most of the individuals complaining about Oprah being a racist are the same individuals who say people of color are way too sensitive concerning race, and that we need to move on...even though racism is as American as apple pie and has been for hundreds of years. It is just more subtle now. So you will cry foul when a once beloved, influencial African-American woman chooses not to stay in her place. You love her when she behaves in a non-threatening manner. I guess you are only liberal minded when it benefits the white race.
I am not even an Obama fan. I will vote for Edwards because his populist message appeals to me, and he is addressing the issue of greed in Washington.
I am an African-American woman. Now which category will I be placed in by you close minded morons.
Not a shred of what Oprah said is racist. Have we moved so disconnected from reality that merely mentioning the name of the great Martin Luther King Jr. is considered racist? And since when is supporting a black candidate "racist?" Honestly I do not know where people get off making these kinds of claims – wake up America!
THEY ARE BOTH FROM CHICAGO!!!
He is a MULTIRACIAL candidate.
She did not support Jesse Jackson or Al Sharpton, they are both black.
I am not a fan of Oprah but she has the right to support ANYONE she wants.
Rush Limbaugh has only supported white candidates
STOP THROWING OUT BOGUS CLAIMS!!!
WOW! Obama and Oprah have stimulated so much public interest. There are 395 responses to this poltical ticker as of 2:46pm e.s.t. This has got to be some type of record. I'm pushing for 400.
Leave Oprah alone. Many of you Obama-Oprah haters, black and white, are just showing your jealous and racist sides. Over the past 8 years, there have been numerous celebrities backing presidential candidates. However, now that Oprah has decided to endorse and campaign for Obama, who happens to be mixed, part black and part white, it gets blown out of proportion. Oprah believes in Obama just like any other Obama supporter, white or black. Oprah is not overly concerned with political promises to this and that, she is concerned more about the character of the person, Obama, than anything else. Political platforms and promises come later.
The same argument of "pitting black against white" was used by foes of integration. When the Freedom Riders attempted to desegregate bus lines, critics used the same argument that they were "fomenting conflict between black and white."
This is the same thing.
Fellow Americans, being black or voting for a black person has nothing to do with 'pitting black against white'.
One big point has been missed in this. Oprah isn't just a TV celeb. She is someone who interviews candidates on her show, someone the public expects to offer an unbiased platform for candidates through the media while working as a quasi-journalist, as opposed to a full journalist like Anderson Cooper or Wolf Blitzer. And when she takes the step to endorse or campaign for one of the candidates, she sheds her ability to remain impartial, period. This rightfully opens up her to criticism. She has made herself the news/event, rather than reporting on it, something that a fair and unbiased TV journalist/host should never do. Therefore, people have a legitimate right to blast her for putting herself first. In a way, it is a selfish act.
Hey, Chuck Norris endorsed Mike Huckabee – so is Chuck Norris racist for doing so? This is so silly!
I'll bet anything that most of Oprah's fans support her exercising her rights as a citizen. How many of these so called offend fans are complaining about Oprah making multimillionaires out of white guys: Dr. Phil, Dr. Oz, Bob Greene, Rachal Ray, Book Club authors...and the list goes on and on. They are just offended because she is not for their guy. Obama is just as or more qualified than the rest of the field..Republicans or Democrats. Take a look at his resume.
She says that she isnt supporting him because he is black. But it seems a little odd then that she has not supported any other candidate the this extreme in the past. It is just quite conveniant then that he is black.
Posted By Michael, Phoenix AZ : December 13, 2007 7:44 pm
Let me remind you that Obama isn't the only black person to ever run for president in this country.
Leave Oprah alone. She is free, like any other celebrity, to support who she wants for president. Any of the candidates would love to have her stumping for them. Sounds like some are upset because she isn't stumping for their candidate. If she were, there would be no problem–let's stop hating and accept the fact that this is after all a race for the highest office in the land–Oprah is a major coup for Obama. She would have been a plus for anyone who would have inspired her to go public with her convictions.
"I made the decision that I have the right to do it as an American citizen," she said.
The problem with celebrities getting involved and outspoken in the political arena is that, unfortunately, there are too many people who can't or won't think for themselves. So instead of reviewing a politician and his/her stand on issues, they throw in with the popular celebs who ar eknown for doing alot to help people.
Oprah has done alot to help under privelidged kids and families and that's great. But her political ideals should be kept to herself unless she is planning on getting into politics as a player.
She does have the right to make her own decisions but she should take measure of the fact that people will follow her simply because she's Oprah.
Celebrities shouldn't be out showboating for politicians.
Clearly MLK spoke of great virtues for all human beings. Invoking the name of MLK in stumping for Barack is a testament to the comparison of visions and NOT race. People need to have their blind ideaology of racism re-examined or removed because race is not the mass motivation for standing behind a candidate anymore. If Phil Donahue invoked MLK's vision for Barack, there would be no discussion on this. Wake up & get real!
Is it true that Oprah is campaigning for Obama because he is black nad not because she believes he is qualified to be president? Somebody said that Oprah will campaign for any black presidential candidate not because of the person's qualifications but because the person is black and that's not good at all.
LOL CNN MIGHT AS WELL ENDORSE HILLARY CLINTON. I THOUGHT MORE OF CNN, THIS IS A B/S STORY TO GIVE OBAMA A BAD SPIN AS USUAL.
Oprah has all the rights to choose which candidate to support. She has to choose between race and gender. She chose race. She owes no explanation to anybody. Personally, I would have chosen gender simply because there are more racist in America than chauvinist. If Obama wins the nomination that will drive all racist to the polls and out vote him. Secondly, women are less recognized than men. It would be harder for a woman to get to the top than a black man. But there are more women in population than men. If there is someone who is capable to bring women to the top, it’s Hillary. Regardless of anyone’s negative opinion about her, she can set the stage and open the opportunities to women of all races. Most of the developed nations have already chosen at one time a woman as their leader. America needs a new vision, not from another man but from a woman. America needs a new direction and a new perspective.
I knew this would blow up in his face.
This is simple. Obama is not the first black man nor black woman running for president. Oprah has not backed them in the past. Racism? Not even close.
Some few years ago, I don't remember her stumping for Al Sharpton or Jesse Jackson...and THEY"RE BOTH BLACK!!! This is a passionate election, a lot more choices today then there were even four years ago, with a lot more at stake. So what if she truly was only voting for him based on his race, it's her business anyway. I happen to believe there is a lot more to this woman than the color of her skin. I happen to believe she truly likes what he stands for and wants to show her support.
I think it's wonderful that Oprah is supporting Obama. Regardless of if it's for his fresh new veiws, charisma, youth, or skin color. It's her choice. Isn't that what America is about. How many people are backing Clinton just because she is a woman? Vise Versa... How many people will not back Clinton because she is a woman? Same thing goes for Obama. People are going to back someone for their own reasons. We just have to take Oprah by her word... even if she is only backing him due to race and attempting to bring more black voters out. Is that really such a bad thing anyway? I'm a 30 something white single dad of two and I have never really be that political. However with the receint craziness of the current administration it understandable to be more interested in this election. Maybe the same holds true for Oprah. I too am drawn to Obama... he's something different. A fresh new view. Maybe I'll actually vote (note: I have never voted before). Anyway, Good job Oprah. I feel your involvement is a positive.
I did not intend to try fooling a fool Donna. I have not chosen a candidate yet. I have not booed anyone at any debate. I am a 72 year old Nevadan who is disgusted with both parties. Harry Reid knows that well. You are delusional to assume at my age and retired on a mere pension and S/S that I could afford a handler. Oprahs' audiences go to see what they can get for free and see her" FAVORITE THINGS" that none of them can afford but wish she would give them. I did like Obama, thought he was articulate, smart and concerned about this country. When Oprah brought in the RACE card for him to run on he is off the radar. As I said her bible thumping revival was way over the top as was her accent. I am sure she has had many sessions to rid herself of her "accent" so she can be WHITE when it suits her. Just like her statements she is a size 8. Only thing that may be a size 8 on her is her pinky finger. She is a liar and a racist. MO. All she does is to bring more attention and publicity to her and her friend Gail. BTW, I don't recall, did she do anything or much for the Katrina victims that are still suffering? The money she spent for Obama sure could have helped many of the poor blacks and whites suffering still after Katrina and will for years to come.
Dear Frank from Denver, CO (posted 12/13/07): You forget that there have been other black men running for President in the past, so you cannot say "she never backed a candidate before until a Black man was running".
OK I watch Oprah. Do I take everything that Oprah says as gospel? NO WAY! DO other people? ABSOLUTELY. When Oprah says go get this book it is the best thing ever, 10 million people run out and buy it immediately. All of a sudden Dostoevsky becomes part of pop culture and people react as if he is some new fantastic author. All this hype is because Oprah says. When Oprah says anything many many people jump to get whatever she is endorsing. My point is by Oprah endorsing and speaking for Obama (or any canidate) it is irresponsible! She should know the power that she has when her opinion is voiced, and she obviously does. It is irresponsible for her to think that many of her fans that vote are going to now vote on the real issues. No of course their not they are going to vote for who Oprah says!
Yes, to me she jumped on the bandwagon a little early. Yes, they are both black, but what state is he from? What state is she living and working in? Do they know each other? are they friends?
Is he the most qualified to be Prez? He's been in goverment work for what? 5 minutes, Hilary? 10 minutes (elected)
The ones that are quailifed, Biden, Edwards, Richardson, Kerry? Gore? But alas, no one knows them anymore, we are toooo busy with the Hollywood types, who gets the most pics, with the most celebs. Who's throwing all this money behind these 2? I'll bet it's the Repulican Party, because they know, they will beat either one of them. Maybe I'm being paranoid, but I still can't find one person I know that voted for GW in either election.
Wake up people! Just because they get the most press (normally because of something STUPID they said or did) doesn't mean they're the best.
by the way I'm a registered Democrat.
WELL, OPRAH IS TRULY SHOWING HER TRUE COLORS. IF THIS ISN'T A RACE ISSUE, WHY DOES SHE THINK SHE IS THE GRAND DAME. I WILL NOW NEVER VOTE FOR HIM, BECAUSE OF THE OPRAH RACE BASHING. SHE SURELY DEMONSTRATES THAT THE COLOR IS TRULY HER BIG ISSUE.
to:Lisa, San Diego, CA. : December 14, 2007 3:59 pm
You're right. The reason for that is that even some blacks realize sharpton is a bigot who would not be elected. Remember the incident in N.Y. when he staged a racist assault of a young black woman by whites?
he's a racist.
Jesse turns off a lot of people too. he makes trips to countries that the USA does not bargain with and makes deals with their leaders without consultation. haves tea with Chavez?
Obama on the other hand, has mass appeal. young, vital, good looks and of course, OPRAH. so now she can take a chance at politics. Go back to your little show and books oprah, and stay out of politics.
I'm sorry people have to be so negative about this. I'm a white Obama supporter and I don't see how Oprah's support is at all racist.
They are both using the race card. Black for black but God forbid that white should play a similar race card.
Let's be honest, many people are going to vote for Obama because of his race and many will not vote for Obama because of his race. Both groups are stupid!
Oprah should stick to what she does best and not risk losing support. Obama is obviously not going to win this election and Oprah just doesn't have the power to make a difference politically.
I won't watch her show again.
As a white woman who saw the battles of the civil rights movement firsthand, I think attacks on Oprah's character over her support for Obama are exactly why Oprah has not supported anyone before – because supporters of other candidates will use any reason to bash her now, when they would not have had she endorsed their candidate.
I do not think her message is about race. On the contrary, Oprah and Obama do not dwell on race and are unifying forces in America.
I am sure she took this into account when she decided to support Obama, but as she has said, this election is too important for her to not do what she feels is right.
Posted By Ruth Bethinger, New York, New York : December 13, 2007 7:56 pm
thank you ruth for your honest insight!
ithink that oprah is a betrayal for our country,while our kids are suffering the bush administration,how dare you go to a different country and build a 35milion dollars school when these country is need. I WONT WATCH HER SHOW EVER AGAIN I WILL ASK FRIENDS AND FAMILY TO STOP WATCHING HER SHOW.
Posted By roberto belleville,nj : December 13, 2007 8:36 pm
well she opened a school in a third world country, and she should have spent that money in uber-rich america? wake up folks that country needed it more than we did, we just need a better government to manage our country!
Some of you are all idiots. There have been past candidates such as Jackson and Keyes and guess what they're black!
Should she endorse Hilz b/c she's a Woman?
If you're that upset over Oprah actions then you are a sheep! You obviously can't think for yourself. Get out and vote!
Funny how white people love to paint black people into a corner. A black celebrity happens to believe in a half-black politician (he's also half-white, we should not forget)because of his political views and what do white racists do that is predictable? Accuse the celebrity of backing the politician because of race. Why didn't she back Jesse Jackson when he ran for president TWICE?
I guess it's okay for a white celebrity to back a white politician. Race never has anything to do with it, right? But Oprah, because she's black, is automatically suspect, right?
Yeah, right.
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Wow the children will play here CNN
"OPRAH BROUGHT THEM"
"OBAMA TAUGHT THEM"
Children didn't your mother tell you to play nice ?
Prejudice doesn't work for anyone.
We need a
PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA
not a divider attacking the right
Thank you Oprah for putting yourself out there to help Barack educate others of ALL COLORS
Posted By Danielle Clarke Phila Pa : December 14, 2007 12:15 pm
Posted By Danielle Clarke Phila Pa : December 14, 2007 2:26 pm
Sorry but I don't believe Ophra would be out there if Obama was white.. only a few shallow minds actually believe this is NOT a race issue. Most of the people attending the rally in Columbia were only there to see her. I think it was a joke!
If Oprah had come out in support of Hillary Clinton, even appearing publicly with her on the campaign trail to help the lone female candidate among a field of male candidates finally make it into the White House, would her fans who are sounding off still sounded off? Especially go so far as to inject the element of race or even feminism? Can we recall if those Hollywood types who openly supported Bill Clinton's candidacy in 1992 ever had to endure threats of fan withdrawal? Whither the hypocrisy then?
Michael — Gallatin, TN wrote "At the risk of being thought a racist, I have to say that it is hard for me to get past the belief that if Barack Obama was white, and had the level of experience and national reputation that he does, few people would really be taking his candidacy very seriously."
Um, can we say John Edwards? He has less experience in elected positions than Obama and he was taken seriously enough to be selected as vp on Kerry's ticket.
You can look for reasons all day long to not vote for someone if that is what you choose. You can also find reasons to choose them. You don't have to explain it to no one else. People voted for Bush because he felt like "you could sit down and have a beer with him". I choose Obama cause I believe he really wants to make a difference in this country. He is smart enough to make intelligent decisions and is fully capable of explaining his reasoning without sounding like a fifth grader. That's enough. We have no idea what all is involved with running this country. As long as he can choose competent advisers with integrity, we will be no worse off than we have been and will probably be a lot better off.
I am a white male, and I found nothing whatsoever offensive in Oprah's endorsement. I watched both of their speeches, and I was highly impressed. They spoke passionately and movingly about racial injustice, yes, but they were also very optimistic and, obviously proud of their ethnic heritage and the courage of civil rights leaders such as Martin Luther King. I have no idea how anyone could perceive either one of their speeches as being racist or anti-white. They were joyful and proud, welcoming and hopeful. They were reaching out to Americans of all races, both Republican and Democrat. It is so sad that some people still feel threatened by that message of positivity, unity and pride. People of all races everywhere have a right to and deserve to celebrate his candidacy!
I regret to think that Oprah and other celebrities are trying to "cash in" on the political race. they think that they are doing us a favor when in reality they are only using the media to highten popularity and push thier own agenda. Because these people are already in the spotlight their many fans do what these celebrities have told them to do. Celebrities should not get into the center ring. It really muddies up the water and takes the focus off of the real issues.
Comments claiming that Oprah is racist simply because she supports a black man for president are nothing less then offensive. She didn't get involved in politics until a black man ran for president? What? Last I checked, there has been a black candidate for president since the 1988 elections. She didn't get involved in any of those. Where was your self-rightous outrage at Bruce Springsteen when he campaigned with Kerry, or any other white celebrity campaigning for a white candidate?
In her speech, Oprah asked people "to think." Isn't that a little bit degrading to the American public, who made her so rich. To imply that, without her request for people 'to think,' that the American people would blindly choose a world leader, is absurd. She should stick to giving away freebies, and being a mass merchandiser. Just because she's rich, doesn't mean she's smart.
I think that Barack Obama is a puppet and Oprah Winfrey the ever masterful puppeteer. It seems that she is the one running for president via Barack Obama. Barack obama has been bought and paid for by Oprah Winfrey and she is calling all the shots. He is not his own man he is her man.
Oprah just justified my thinking that African-America's stick togather and God forbid that Obama over-comes as we may become the slaves!!!! And, why isn't Oprah kicked-off her television programs as others who have made racial remarks.... Looks like double standards, Don't you think????
If she really "cares", where was she when America "needed" in 2000 & 2004???? She should be shame then for not speaking out.... and now she is stumping for obama only because he is black. Sad!!!!
Oprah is great on camera, but she's the worst thing to ever happen to the United States. I felt this way 20 years ago, when she helped perpetuate the political correct dogma. Unbeknownst to her, she had a parade of members of the CPUSA appear on her show telling Americans how racist, evil, greedy, nasty, mean (anything negative) we really are. She gave the PC czars a stage on which to spew their bile, all for the “warm fuzzy” effect she got from it on her show. She sold out for crocodile tears. It was on Oprah’s show 20some years ago where the concept that America isn't a melting pot but a "tossed salad" (a PC, racial terminology) was introduced. Oprah is not evil herself, but she is gullible and guilty of ignorance. She has done terrible wrong to this country. Her fans are equally gullible and simplistic, which is why they cannot make decisions on their own without Oprah's input. These people cannot even read a book without Oprah Okaying it first. I am not surprised she is engaging in peddling a B-rate politician like Obama. She has always peddled B-rate ideas, all to cash in for the emotional jab. She doesn't know any better. She's B-rate herself and, truthfully, she’s not too bright. At least some of her fans have the ability to think for themselves enough to realize she’s a schmaltz peddler.
Saying Oprah's supporting Barack Obama because he is black. Is like saying Charlton Heston, Rush Limbaugh, and Hal Turner voted for and supports George Bush because he's white. Is race the driving force behind political views. Bottom line we need a President who cares about more than his constituency's wealth at the costs and well being of the average American.
Barack Obama is half black. So Oprah really half-way supports him.
Alan Keys is an African-American too, so why is Oprah not supporting him? That's right... she doesn't share his beliefs! I wish people would get over the skin color thing; it's so 20th-century!!!
Sorry, I know the african american population would love to believe that Oprah is not racially motivated here but that is just not reality. If this was not a racially motivated line of support then you would not be hearing quotes from Martin Luther King out of her mouth. I do not believe she even mentions the issues that Obama supports, actually I will throw it out there and say I doubt 90% of the black population that will vote for Obama has no clue where he stands on the issues. On the contrary, I will guarantee 90% of black voters voting for a candidate other than Obama have a general understanding of the issues their candidate is fighting for. Just food for thought.
I watch the Oprah show maybe once every 7 or 8 months. No one could classify me as a loyal viewer or groupie. What I am about to say is not for or against her. It’s just the truth. My heart hurts as I view the ignorance of Americans. I try to tell myself that people want to gain more intelligence and evolve. I guess ignorance is bliss for some. America is in need of someone who will unite this country. If America can conquer its fear of hearing the truth, then I am sure that person will come. Everyone is pointing the finger at Oprah for never supporting a candidate for President until Barack Obama came into the picture. People say she has decided to back him because he is the FIRST African American (Which he is bi-racial, but everyone sees him as African American, just like Mariah Carey..lol) candidate. This is where we separate the wheat from the tare. The wheat being those people who were already a part of politics and follow(ed) them on a daily basis. The tare being those who do not know much about politics and are receiving more exposure due to Oprah’s presence in the political arena. This is for the tare. BARACK OBAMA IS NOT THE FIRST AFRICAN AMERICAN CANDIDATE TO RUN FOR PRESIDENT!! Jesse Jackson and Al Sharpton (Who won SC in the primary) ran for President. ALSO, Carol Moseley Braun (The first African American woman to be elected to the United States Senate) from “Chicago” ran for President. She dropped out before the Iowa primary. Truthfully, her resume is more impressive than Barack Obama’s. Oprah still didn’t support her. It is obvious that she is not supporting Barack Obama because of his skin color. She is supporting him because she believes in him. Oprah has created a BILLION dollar fortune from NOTHING. It is an insult to her intelligence to think she would be so simple to support a candidate because of skin color. Is anyone pointing fingers at Barbra Streisand?? Is anyone calling her racist and sexist because she didn’t support Barack Obama?? One could say she supported Hillary Clinton because Hillary Clinton is Caucasian AND a woman. That’s not fair..lol..Truth be told, I really don’t care for Hillary Clinton or Barack Obama. I think both would make a good president, but not a GREAT president. Lastly, please leave the celebrities alone. There is one word that describes Americans who have something negative to say about celebrities who participate in politics. That word is JEALOUS. I am sure it can be frustrating that you can’t make your opinion about politics heard like Oprah, Chuck Norris, Brad Pitt, etc. They have a right to participate in politics because they are American citizens. The more you pour your heart into politics, the more people will listen. Eventually, you will have an audience as big as Oprah’s..lol..Be Blessed
Good grief, this is getting so much response. I don't understand it.
Months ago, for the first time, I volunteered and campaigned for a candidate. Barack Obama. I've never even donated to a political campaign either, until Obama. And I'm a white female. And I've met a lot of different people – white and black, who also never got politically active or involved until Obama. So I can understand where Oprah is coming from. If I had her power, I wouldn't hesitate to flex a little muscle for him.
It's Oprah's right as well as anyone else's to choose to support a candidate and become involved. I suppose if she were backing Hillary, everyone would claim that it's just because Hillary's a female.
People, spend your time and resources supporting who you think is the best candidate, and stop questioning others' reasons or motives. It isn't personal when a fellow American exercises their right to be active in the political process.
I think this article for CNN...the most trusted voice in new broadcasting, is reaching for something that not there. If you listen to all of the speeches oprah & Obama made during there 3 state tour...they spoke about women rights among other things, so should we also assume that this was about obama against women. I believe it has nothing to do with black and white. Help me to understand what it is when another candidate like Hillary brings out her Husband. Is it the Clintons vs the world. CCNN...please do me a favor and stop reaching.
Whoa!
I THOUGHT THAT RACISM WAS JUST IN THE SOUTH..... I THOUGHT THAT THIS WAS A DAY OF CRITICAL THINKING AND COMPASSION......YET WORD AFTER WORD IT IS PROVEN THAT ANY TACTIC NECCESSARY TO GET WHAT YOU WANT. THAT IS THE AMERICAN WAY RIGHT!!!!THE ENDS JUSTIFY THE MEANS. I HOPE THAT ONE DAY ONCE YOU OLD PEOPLE ARE GONE WE WILL BE ABLE TO TEACH OUR CHILDREN HOW TO GIVE NOT ONLY TO YOURSELVES BUT TO EVERY ONE THAT YOU POSSIBLY CAN SO THAT TRUE HOSPITALITY ENSURE THE FOUNDATION OF MASLOWS HIERARCHY OF NEEDS ARE MEET AND ALL PEOPLE CAN START WORKING ON THEIR TOP PYRAMIDS. ITS ABOUT EMPHASIZING THE POSITIVE CHARACTERISTICS OF YOUR CANDIDATE INSTEAD OF BRINGING DOWN THE BEAUTY AND GENUISNESS OF ANOTHER. YOU NEED TO BELIEVE IN YOURSELF FOR 2008 ONCE YOU FIND YOURSELF THEN MAYBE YOU SHOULD START THINKING ABOUT A CANDIDATE.
stop hating on oprah and obama
for god sake let freedon ring
obama for president
oprah has already made her money if
you like criticise her all day
we are fulfilling the long live prophecy
we shall rise and reign over zion
psalm 69
Everyone keeps saying that Oprah never supported another candidate until Obama. Has anyone stopped to ask why? Maybe because in her mind our country never needed a candidate like Obama until now. Fighting on two fronts and threatening with a third. It's not about race....it's about change.
can i go on, is time we stop the supremacy and let the afro,negro people rule after all we all thought politics was a way to let good people who are capable, competent rule,
obama is competent has the experience and i beleive with all reasonable thouth in my heart he deserves and will be the next american president not negro,not race,not black and not afro american
but the next american president
his resume speaks for himself
lord quicken his spirit
psalm 70
i always knew okra was a racists. thats why i never watched her show. now i wont be able to watch the presidential race because she has made it a racial thang.
I guess there is a beginning and an end.
An end to egyptian supremacy carried over by pharaoh
it'stime to let isreal's people go
if the afro people came from africa i guess the caucasian came from egyptia
well lets's even the ball game
free our people from slavery and let OBAMA REIGN GOOD KING
PSALM 70
Last week, Senator Barack Obama was in Iowa, where once again he tried to focus on his plan to provide universal health care.
That's why you should get to know some facts about his close friend and advisor Valarie Jarrett, who the Chicago Sun-Times Washington Bureau Chief Lynn Sweet describes as a charter member of his kitchen cabinet.
Jarrett even got to go and stay at the Oprah fundraising bash.
Among the things Obama has talked about in Iowa regarding health care, are the obscene profits of pharmaceutical companies, and his demand that hospitals provide more information about the costs of prescription drugs.
We have told you before, that the not-for-profit hospital that gave his wife a huge increase in her total compensation shortly after he was sworn in as Senator, has already reported making a profit of over $105 million after only 9 months of their current fiscal year.
It's a hospital that refuses to provide discounts to the uninsured, and it's a hospital that according to the American Hospital Directory marks already expensive drugs by 537%.
But Barack hasn't cared enough to get his hospital to do anything to change that.
Maybe he doesn't want to ask his wife, who's a Vice-President there, because it might put her in an uncomfortable position.
But he could ask his friend Valarie Jarrett to do something.
You see in July of 2006 the very profitable not-for-profit University of Chicago Hospitals appointed Valerie Jarrett as Chair of the Medical Center Board and also Chair of the newly created Executive Committee of that board. She also has been named Vice-Chair of the University's Board of Trustees.
Obviously given those positions she could do something to carry out Barack's campaign rhetoric, if he is serious about what he says.
But she hasn't.
Instead she defends the obscene profits being made by this hospital.
You should also know that Valerie Jarrett, (close personal friend and member of Obama’s kitchen cabinet-and most likely the one who got Michelle “Pickles” Obama that huge pay hike) serves on the Board of Directors of Navigant Consulting.
Here's what they have to say about themselves.
"Navigant Consulting works with healthcare providers, payers and life science companies to help improve their strategic, operational and financial performance.
"Our clients include hospitals, health systems, physician practices, health plans, managed care organizations, pharmaceutical companies..."
All I get from that is they are a company that helps hospitals, and insurance companies and pharmaceutical companies increase profits.
Last year I reported on a controversy at the government owned University of North Carolinas system.
The story in The Independent Weekly began "Elderly patients, patients without insurance and those having a tough time meeting co-payments got a break last week when UNC Healthcare officials–under pressure from UNC system President Erskine Bowles–agreed to modify recent policies that health care advocates say send the message that if you can't pay, don't go to UNC.
"Bowles, who took over as president in January, won praise this week from leaders of a petition drive who charged UNC Healthcare with veering widely from its mission to the state in pursuit of higher profits..."
The story went on to report that Dr. William Roper, the CEO of the system " has had a longstanding goal of squeezing another percent of profitability out of UNC Healthcare's expanding enterprise, building incentives and bonuses in for managers to tighten margins. It didn't help the new efforts to shore up the health care system's image, though, when the N&O finally won a document battle and word got around last week that the system doled out $1.5 million in 2005 for incentives to top brass–including $84,000 for Roper.
So how does Valerie Jarrett fit into this story.
The newspaper went on to report that "A bigger, more profitable system has been a part of UNC Healthcare's focus since well before Roper took over in 2004. But the former Prudential executive and head of the Centers for Disease Control kicked that effort into overdrive after he commissioned a 2004 study by Navigant Consulting that led to a private-sector style plan for improving the bottom line." (Emphasis added.)
One local activist actually compared the hospital to Wal-Mart, you know the company that Barack Obama has hypocritically criticized for excessive CEO compensation.
I think that she is endorsing him because she personally knows him. And what's wrong with that... I believe they live near each other...
This proves that America as a whole has not moved past race. Chuck Norris is supporting a candidate. Why is that not race-related? I think people need to re-evaluate a few things. There is nothing wrong with Oprah supporting Barack. I think people need to build a bridge and get over it.
bs.., the only reason she is doing this is because she and he are both black.
She claims that she just want obama in office because she agress with that he says..yeah right we all know she is just doing this because hes black and shes black.
It disqusts me that in todays age, American citizens have the audacity to claim Oprah is being racist because she supports a candidate her same color. As a majorly white population, have we ever considered the fact that there has never before been an african american candidate who came close to the primaries racist?
She did not support presidential hopeful Jesse Jackson in 1984, or 88'. Nor did she support Al Sharpton in the recent 2004 elections.
Instead of focusing on the SINGLE most popular african american celebrity who has chosen to support Obama, look to the MILLIONS of white citizens who are also supportive of his campaign.
Oprah is NOT being racist, she is employing her American right to free speech in support of the candidate she is most passionate about.
Rather than rant on blogs about the 'racist' doings of Oprah, educate yourselves on Obamas platform, and you might just agree with her.
Let's not forget there was a BLACK WOMAN running for president in '04. Oprah did not campaign for her, so this whole bias argument holds no credibility. What I am seeing here is DESPERATE republican's who have RUINED our country throughout this decade, and slowly but surely the U.S. citizens are taking the country back, and as usual their arguments, and attacks are based on the bash not the facts!!
WE WILL NEVER HEAR THE WORDS "I BARAK HUSSEIN OSAMA, SO SOLOMNLY SWEAR TO UPHOLD THE CONSTITUTION OF THE UNITED STATES.... AND THE BACKLASH ON THE OPRAH WEBSITE... HOW COME NO BODY IS TALKING ABOUT THAT?
THE TRUTH IS WE WILL NEVER HEAR THE WORDS "I BARAK HUSSEIN OSAMA DO SOLOMNLY SWEAR TO UPHOLD THE CONSTITUTION OF THE UNITED STATES" FORGET IT IT'S NOT GOING TO HAPPEN. AND SOME OF YOU SHOULD CHECK OUT THE NEGATIVE BACKLASH ON HER WEBSITE TO COMING OUT FOR OSAMA. SHE GAVE US A MILLION LITTLE PIECES FRAUD, SHE ENDORSED JAN ANDREWS THAT DRUNK, SPLASTIC SURGEON THAT MAY HAVE KILLED KANYES MOTHER, SHE HAS A SCANDAL THAT SHE IS NOT AWARE OF AT HER ACADAMY EVENT THOUGH, SHE A VICTIM HERSELF, AND SHE IS NOT ANSWERING CHARGES THAT JESSICA SEINFELD PLAGERIZED THE BOOK SHE PROMOTED. GIVE ME A BREAK SHE SOLD OUT A LOOOOONG TIME AGO
Oprah is black. Senator Obama is black. Get over it! You can vote however you want. So what if Oprah wants him to win? We all want someone who we feel will represent ourselves. Oprah knows she is black. Others, including myself, know that I am white. It is a sad fact that we are all aware of our race to different degrees, and mistrust is more common than trust. Will blacks ever forgive whites for making them slaves? Some will and some won't. I personally do not care if the next president is black or white or green or purple or whatever. All I ask is that the next one has some integrity. If that would be Senator Obama, then he has my vote!
Is it racist when white celebrities back white politicians? I think a lot of you should re-evaluate your positions on race in America and stop thinking that whenever black people get together that it's simply because they're black.
Good Morning America,
Black, white, yellow, etc. Once upon a time in this country, people understood it as their duty to stand up and be counted. They knew that this republic could work only so long as we, as citizens, participated in its functioning. We've lost our way so much that now, when one of US, stands up in front of the nation and announces her support for a candidate, no matter the ideology, race, ethnicity, religion, we criticize her. Why are we not all doing this? Why do we not understand it's our duty, our obligation as citizens, to show support for SOMETHING, or SOMEONE? I don't question why Oprah is supporting Obama, I question why all of us aren't doing our duty in a similar way. We all don't have the stage that she has, but many do and don't act. Whether we like it or not, people like Oprah are leaders in this nation. Leaders come in all shapes and sizes (and colors). Instead of sitting on the sideline whining about her play in the game, GET IN THE GAME. Do something to support a candidate. Work to get out the vote. In the end, we're all citizens. We all have the same vote in this election that Oprah has. Oprah is working to open the eyes of the people. She wants them to know that this is an important election and they have to take a position. "I'm not telling you what to think, I'm asking you TO THINK." Follow her example. Get to work.
Jessie Jackson and Al Sharpton ranned for president and opera did not give a puplic endorsement... so how is Obamas endorsement racially motivated?
If obamawinphrey gets the nom WE KNOW VERY WELL, HE CANT WIN IN THE GENERAL ELECTION, THIS COUNTRY WILL FALTER UNDER A NEW 2008 REPUBLICAN PRESIDENCY... OBAMA IS HUGH MISTAKE FOR THIS COUNTRY, HE CANNOT BRING THIS COUNTRY TOGETHER, AND HE AND OPRAH HAVE DIVIDED US MORE THAN ANY OTHER CANDIDATE. AND NOW, EVEN MOVE DIVIDED AS A COUNTRY AFTER LAST WEEKENDS DOG AND PONY SHOW Yes Oprah has power, look what she did with it! She put women, black or white back 50 years! She makes it difficult for any other educated BLACK WOMAN TO SUCCEED NOW! I would never watch, read or use a product Oprah endorses. DO NOT VOTE FOR OBAMAWINPHREY, YOU’RE SELLING YOUR CHILDS FUTURE!
Oprah, admit it; you are letting Obama use you to gain votes. He thinks he can get you to support him just because he's black. Now many people who are fans of you are probably now voting for Obama. I don't like how Obama can just use you to gain votes! Stand up for yourself, Oprah! You're strong and intelligent, but letting Obama use you is not being very strong or intelligent. Don't let him use you!
I think Obama is sexy.
I GOT A CRUSH CRUSH CRUSH ON OBAMAAA! SING WITH ME Y'ALL!
TOTALLY VOTING FOR HIM<3333
you should toooo
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HE'S SO NOT DOING HIS JOB;
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I could care less whether Oprah is for or against any candidate. Endorsements are meant for those who aren't either aren't intelligent enough or too lazy to do their own research on a candidate. Lets use our own brains and conscience people and vote for someone who represents us, not what some celebrity elitists think...they are so out of touch with what society is really like.
Obama is using Oprah. He's not doing his job, he's getting Oprah to do most of it for him!
I agree with Frank on this one, Oprah has never been involved in politics before until Obama, and what a coincidence, he's black. Freedom is popular which is why I'm sticking with the underdog, Ron Paul.
Get over yourselves. When was the last time a candidate –of any color– as inspiring as Barak Obama in Oprah's political voting lifetime that was worth stepping out there for? That wasn't any of the presidents or candidates that we've had in recent history. So Oprah is doing the right thing. How racist we must be if when we look at her, with all of her accomplishments through her own imperfection, and when we look at Barak with all of his accomplishments, through his own very human journey, and all we see is a black woman and a black man. Geesh...when will the hearts of so-called "elevated" people change? Is this 2007 or 1907???
All said and done , if it comes down to the " colo" issue, unfortunately this country does not seem ready to aceept it regardless of the "polls" for Obama.
It will be to everyone's not unexpected dismay that another Republican will mess up for another 8 years.
No one else is electable right now except Hillary.
G.J.Bush
She's black, he's black; and she invoked the name of Martin Luther King Jr. You don't get more racial than that. Although calling her a racist for it is ridiculous, her defense on GMA is weak (from the quote provided at least, I hadn't seen the whole thing or it's context).
I don't care about the Oprah or the black and white thing. People of all colors usually vote for their own and let's us not be blinded soley by that.
What bothers me is that I keep hearing about Obama's good judgement. Obama has run on the platform that he opposed the war because of good judgement before he became senator, and yet, when he became senator he has voted for every measure that has funded the war plus the Patriot Act, which has compromise American civil liberties. Yes, Obama, along with the others he criticized, has utilized sound judgement to spend nearly a trillion dollars, and that is only what we can measure in terms of currency. How about the 4000 soldiers kill, 10's of thousands injured and many suffering from post tramatic syndrom. Yes, how about many of our soldiers' personal lives ruined because of economic hardship, divorce and suicide, all in the name of sound judgement. Let's also mention the one million innocent Iraqi men, women, and children that are dead. The Iraq War was an invasion,it went against the American Constitutional law and International law. Obama who taught constitutional law at the University of Chicago, went along with the rest of the herd instead of using good judgement. Please do not tell give me the excuse that Obama could not turn back, because if that were so why are two candidates presently running, Ron Paul and Kucinich, neither one had approved to start or fund the war consistantly. We all need to wake up!!
I don't think anyone in their right mind can believe that Oprah is only endorsing Obama because he is Black. She may have become familiar with him due to the fact that they were apart of the same social structure of the Black elite in Chicago, but if she was endorsing him for President ONLY because he is Black then she would have endorsed Jesse Jackson, Alan Keyes, Al Sharpton and/or Carol Mosely Braun...all past African American candidates for President. Also, we as the average Americans are always calling on celebrities to take a stand for what we think is important. What is wrong with a celebrity taking a stand for what they find to be important. I never hear anyone complaining about Oprah when she is giving "trinkets" to the mostly white audience or when her Angel Network is assisting homeless white women or when she gave that white guy his dream motorcycle because he spent the money on a home for his new wife and her six kids. I don't recall anyone complaining when she offered $100k for the capture of the mostly white sexual predators whose victims were white children and their white mothers. BUT AS SOON AS A BLACK PERSON SUPPORTS SOMEONE OF HIS/HER RACE then the HATERS show up in droves.
I think a lot of the commentors here are forgetting something. It is not about black and black. It's about Oprah's attitude on the situation. You will NOT realize Dr. King's dream just by electing a black president. Essentially what Oprah is saying is all the other white candidates will not realize Dr. King's dream. Now WHY IS THAT? This is just ridiculous, theres way to many Americans that are playing the popularity contest here. Think for yourselfs. Oprah is a talk show host...She has 0 credibility as a political advisor in my book.
WHO CARES WHO OPRAH ENDORSES! This is still America the last time that I checked. Who and when she decided to endorse a candidate is surely her right as an American citizen. Or is it un-American now to express a view or engage in the political debate. Some people still reflect the underbelly of our society by always injecting RACE. So I am now to assume that ALL white people who have endorsed a white candidate are now racist. Get Real. I am African American, Black, Negro or whatever the Politically correct terminology is today, but I don't support Obama becasue he is or is not black but because I like someone else whose views and vision I feel would better serve the United Sates as President. You folks who have a problem with her endorsement and lambast Oprah only highlight what is wrong with America; IGNORANCE! We are all entitled to express a view whether you agree or disagree, whether you are rich or poor, whether you are balck or white, educated or not, know or unknown. Stop the none-sense. None of you even know Oprah and don't know what is in her mind or her motivations. If you want to endorse someone so that your voice is heard then endorse them with your vote. The sad commentary however is that many who post on this site and whine and complain will not have the COURAGE or CONVICTION to vote at all. I pray for America because we are no longer united. I appeal to all American citizens STOP RACE BAITING. It is a poison that is killing us at the very core of who we are as a people.
I'm a little curious as to why Oprah is supporting Obama, i think this is beyond race because we have had blacks like Jessy Jackson, Sharpton and a few others in the presidential race before and Oprah did not come out to support them like she is doing now, if we can open our eyes to look at these candidates, we can clearly see there is something about Barak Obama that others do not have.
First of all 'We The People of The United States of America'
We should be able to support the individual that we believe in. That is why it is called the United States of America; we are now fighting for democracy in other countries, rightly or wrongly. So why are we telling anyone who they can and cannot support. I believe that we are all free to choose our own paths, the last that I checked, we all had that right! So unless you are “GOD” whom by the way gave each of us that right, then neither of us are in the position to take away that right from one another! So, if you don’t have anything good to say then keep your mouth shut, and stop commending other who openly have made there stand to support the candidate of their choice. If we want change then you must STAND and not sit down! Then Vote your heart, your conscious, and your own individual beliefs, what ever they maybe. You alone must be the one that takes that stand! If we truly are all on an even page, then we would never see the color of someone skin, race, or religion. If we truly believe in what “America” really stands for! And, what God already gave US!!!! The Freedom to CHOOSE!!!!!!
C.M. Thomas
Most of the individuals accusing Oprah of being a racist because she is supporting Obama are the exact same misguided individuals who would argue that we do not have a race problem in this country. Let us say that your claims are correct, and Oprah is a racist, and supporting Obama solely because he is African-American...you should consider youself lucky. If you were a person of color your experiences with racism would indeed be in far greater numbers, and by far more harsh...but with the lame logic most of you use in your moronic analysis of situations dealing with race...it only matters if whites perceive they have a disadvantage.
If you do not like Obama...here's an idea...DON'T VOTE FOR HIM!
Ms.Costello,
I have been disappointed since the morning you stated on air that Green Day's "American Idiot" was Anti-American...shame on you. By the way, you are much better journalist than this story would indicate.
Wow. It is funny that so many are worried about people voting for Obama because Oprah is stumping for him. Why don’t you do more crybabies? Go out and do more to support the candidate that you want, if you feel the need to combat the candidate Oprah is supporting. The bellyaching that you are doing about her being racist is nothing more than a copout by you. Get out and go door to door and tell people about the good things about your candidate. STOP whining. If you have all this time to watch Oprah at 3:00 in the afternoon, maybe you need a job. If you had a job you could be make large donations to the candidate of your choice. I like to watch the Simpson’s but Bart will never influence my vote. If you are so weak minded that you do something because a celebrity say so, PLEASE PLEASE don’t vote.
Oprah should be and will be welcomed as a political participant just as were Hollywood supporters as Bill Clinton were by the R's. Oprah, please butt out.
WINFREY AS MILKED THE AMERICAN PUBLIC AND SYSTEM ENOUGH AND NOW IT'S OPRAY SAYS READ THIS, WATCH OPRAY'S MOVIES, AND OPRAY SAYS VOTE THAT. OBAMA FAILED TO RESPOND TO MY MOTHER IN ILLINOIS WHO WROTE TO OBAMA WHILE SENATOR AND OPRAY WANTS US TO VOTE HIM IN TO RUN THE COUNTRY NO THANK YOU HE WAS PAID PLENTY AS A SENATOR AND NOT TO WRITE BACK IS UNCONSTITUTIONAL
She Can't even pick to run her school in afraca so by that notion HOW THE HECK CAN WE AS THE AMERICAN PEOPLE TRUST HER PICK IN OBAMA. HILLARY 08
as a Canadian(north American) I am fairly neutral about USA politics.America is a wonderful country but I think the days of black and white against each other is going to come back due to Oprah.Just her mentioning Dr King will stir things up.Seems like she enjoys being in the spotlike.
John
It is amazing that we are forgetting that several other African-American presidential candidates ran years past, i.e., Alan Keys, Rev. Jesse Jackson, Rev. Al Sharpton and former senator and former Ambassador Carol Moseley Braun of Illinois. I know, people forgot about them because they weren't taken seriously. Well, now that it appears that Barack Obama can really win the democratic nomination and the presidential election, people of all races really don't know what to think. I agree with Oprah, I guess we haven't come as far as a nation since Dr. Martin Luther King's speech in 1963. Our country need a lot of prayers! Now! When will we learn.
O !! Please. You would have never come out of your so called " BOX " if Oboma was white. I am now turned off by both of you. I am seeing Oboma in a different light now. You make it very obvious it was Black against White. I always thought Oprah was a little racist. Now I really believe she is. What does this say for OBOMA ? Hmmmmm. Bad endorsement Oboma.
Purely ridiculous outrage over a person taking a stand and making a choice of candidate. I wonder she would get the same reaction had she picked Hillary Clinton instead of Barack Obama. And to say that people are bought and paid on her show is absurd. People have bought into hope unlike the many Jerry Springers in the world that use race, class, sex,etc to keep people divided.
what oprah has done has split the democratic party. her candidate can't win. now the people that would have backed hillary will not. now, we will have another republican, i ask can this country afford that? can the black community afford this? we the poor, middle and the minorities are the ones dying in iraq. i just hope when this is over, we will all come together and vote for whom ever the democratic nominee is.
This will be Oprah's downfall.She is without question, supporting Obama because of race.
I used to be an Oprah supporter and I do believe you should support whom strikes a cord within your character. However, she has always kept racism on the forefront and fresh in everyone's mind. Ok, so it might be her against the world. What it boils down to is the less of all evils when the final nominations come out, noone is going to be a perfect fit, you yourself have to check your own morality and determine who fits, and apparently for her it is Obama (Which I don't understand). She has always been about "girl power", why not go after Clinton, or religion, so go for Romney. And if everyone is in such an uproar about her stance, then why isn't anyone ousting BET, when it is directly "Black Entertainment Television", there is no "WET"??????
I don't believe that Oprah is pitting blacks against whites and she certainly has a right to support a candidate. But personally, I will not vote for Obama because of her stumping. I am tired of "the best governnment that money can buy." Unless she's moving in the White House with him (as Bill will do with Hillary) her support is about money. I'm tired of the moneyed class running this nation.
She is not on my favorite list. She was wrong in being a speratist. It has taken many years to bring races togeather. She shouldn't have gotten on stage and rewrote Martin Luther King and came up with her own words about today's issues not this is a DREAM for BLACK people. The election for President of the United States can not be about race or Gender at all. She knows nothing of politics, her revival told us that. I'm sorry when Obama"s debate question came up about wheater he was BLACK enough he answered all wrong. He said yes I'm BLACK enough. He should have said this isn't about me being BLACK it's about my ability to do a job. The job of President for all Americans. Even since and after critisimn over this he has still not rebuked. This is more dangorous then his foreign policy's for it could lead to more seperation here in the United States. Also he says he is a uniter. So why is he not uniteing right now in the Senate where his current job lies.
OPRAH IN IOWA
OPRAH WAS CHANNELLING THE VOICE OF MARTIN KUTHER KING JR. AND MAYA ANGELOU...MY QUESTION IS WHY? MULTIPLE PERSONALITY DISORDER?
IT'S PRETTY INSULTING AND A CHEAP IMITATION FOR PERSONS WHO WERE GENUINELY BEING THEMSELVES - OPRAH SHOULD STICK TO HER OWN VOICE AND WHO SHE IS RATHER THAN TAKING ON THE PERSONA OF OTHERS -
IT SEEMED MORE LIKE SOME POOR INITATION OF CIVIL RIGHT ICONS..AND WHY? IT CERTAINLY TURNED ME OFF TO OBAMA, BECAUSE I THOUGHT HIS PLATFORM WAS CROSS CULTURAL AND DIDNT NECESSITATE SOME PHONY SOUTHERN ACCENT...ISNT OPRAH FROM CHICAGO? FOR SOMEONE I THINK IS INTELLIGENT SHE WAS SURE ACTING STUPID.
SOMEONE SHOULD WAKE HER UP AND TELL HER "ITS THE ISSUES STUPID" AND THE CONSCIOUSNESS OF RIGHT AND WRONG THAT WE SHOULD ALL BE SHARING - AND THAT WILL BE THE REASON WHY A CANDIDATE
GETS THE VOTE OF AMERICANS – NOT THIS DIVISIVE BLACK /WHITE NONSENSE, WHEN WE FORGET ABOUT THAT (THOSE CHEAP HOKEY PHONEY PARROTTINGS) THEN RACE WILL CEASE TO EVEN BE AN ISSUE.
EVEN THOUGH I THINK OPRAH HAS THIS INCREDIBLE GIVING HEART I THINK SHE WILL CAUSE OBAMA TO LOSE VOTES WITH SUCH ANTICS - IT COMES ACROSS AS PHONEY BALONEY
I am two-sides on this issue.
Of course when whites see prominent blacks get together and cause such uproar (successfully) they become freightened. I, however, am black and support Clinton. I do believe that Oprah and Obama used blacks to come out to vote for Obama by speaking abnormally (black). When they return to their respective positions they will again speak in their "white" voices. Oprah is not voting for Obama because he is black (I see very little black in him, though a whole lot in her). She is voting for him because she likes him sexually. Oprah has always said she was unhappy about her looks (the black features). To overcome this she dates and fantisizes about men who look like Obama (who is not good looking to me at all, nor is Steadman). I don't know if Oprah is a lesbian but I bet Gail and she fantisize a great deal about Obama and her vote is based on that soley.
RE: OPRAH ENDORSING OBAMA
IN LISTENING TO OPRAH'S INTRODUCTION SPEECH FOR OBAMA IN FLORIDA... AND SOUNDING LIKE A PREACHER, BLEW ME AWAY. SHE IS JUST A VERY WEALTHY MEDIA JOURNALIST, SOUNDING LIKE A PREACHER?? HUH? SHE HAS NO BUSINESS PUBLICLY ENDORSING OBAMA. I JUST HEARD A STATEMENT FROM A VERY ASTUTE MAN IN HIS OWN RIGHT, JUST AS WEALTHY, STATING HE WILL NOT ENDORSE ANYONE, THAT IT IS NOT HIS BUSINESS...HIS NAME? ALAN GREENSPAN!! DID YOU HEAR THAT OPRAH? SEEMS TO ME HE KNOWS HIS PLACE IS NOT TO LEAD THOSE THAT WILL NOT LEARN ABOUT THE CANDIDATES ON THEIR OWN. HEAR, HEAR...
I've already confessed that I lost a bit of respect for Oprah over her reaction to that author who wrote the "autobiography" which turned out to be false, and then recommending that plastic surgeon who apparently has a criminal record and may be responsible for the death of a rapper's mother. And I guess that Oprah can do what she wants, where she wants. She sure helped George W. Bush get elected in 2000. Ok, fine. What I object to is that attitude that Oprah always portrays, as if she is some sort of "messiah" on earth and always has all the answers and knows everything. I have watched her show for years and after a while it got very old. SHE IS INTELLIGENT! She has helped bring certain issues to the forefront. But I have a hard time trusting someone who seems to have all the answers.
When you read through this blog there is no wonder our country is in the state it is in, and why we have the President we have.
There are some VERY IGNORANT people on this site.
Oprah is a citizen first, a human first and then an entertainer. Because someone is an entertainer does not mean they know nothing else.
RE: MLK – the point is and was "that people would be judged by the CONTENT OF THEIR CHARACTER & NOT the COLOR OF THEIR SKIN"
How is that racist? That is the opposite of racism!!!!
If you now oppose Oprah because she stood up for the person she believes in that is your decision. I personally would not a person's support who thinks they have a right to an opinion about a candidate and a right to share that view, but don't feel she has that same right.
I really pray that Obama becomes President, maybe with a leader that is trying to end this divide we as citizens will follow his lead. However, I must say that when I read this blog sometimes, I want to be and say things that are not very Christian. The good part is the better part of me rises up to the top and I try to catch myself!
God Bless & Merry Christmas!
I have to admit that it really seems like Oprah is racist against whites. Why hasn't she ever supported a candidate until now? Oh, because Obama is black. Racism needs to go, and I'll have a hard time watching Oprah after the way she has shown her true racist colors.
This opinion is a hit piece. It has no quotes that support the allegations of using race as a determining factor. Commenting on the commments of people at Oprah's blogsite is really a low of "reporting." Saying that some people say race is being used is really just laughable.
What's been lost on many here is that the Obamas and Oprah have been friends for several years now.She said time and time again that she knows Barack and Michelle personally. Did you ever see Oprah campaign for Jesse Jackson or even some black candidates at the states level?
All you republican women are a bunch of hypocrites. You are all okay with and feel empowered by watcing and supporting Oprah as long as she knows "her place", right? I guess she forgot "her place" and you all need to put her back in it, huh? What a bunch of ignorant and racist women! Rot in hell all of you. I'm sure Oprah will suffer by not having your support! HA!
Why would Oprah's support of Obama be surprising?
Obama isn't exactly "AfroAmerican" as he is "African-American."
Oprah is all about Africa this season, didn't you see it on the Give Away Show?
Yes, even Gayle called the show and agreed that Orphaned African Girls are soooo 2006!
This year, Obama is all the rage. You get the best of both worlds - you get to look more "African" to your new relatives back at the $59 million dollar schoolhouse for 12 AND ...
tadaaaaaaaaa ...
... you get to look seriously (visualize the "concerned" Oprah as opposed to the preaching it like Martin' Oprah next to Obama at the stump) interested and involved in the United States because well, she's Mother Oprah and ...
Man ... she IS a Godess!
I get a "Little Offended" that she would use the influence that she has over women to direct their vote. I thought her show was about empowering women to make up their own minds and not vote the way their husband's told them to vote. She knows the impact that she has on some women. In the Iowa write ups, they infer she now will direct the vote of women over 50. I feel like she has just gone against what her goal has been all these year. If I were an Iowa Women, I would be offended at this.
Oprah, you certainly can put your endoresement out there. However, if you really support the independant thinking of Women, you should be careful to provide them with all the information on all the candidates, but not make their decisions for them.
I am Very Offended at What You are Doing. I think you have gone beyond your expertise. Books, I could understand. You are a reader. However, with your school and not with this, I think you are out of your element. It is almost like you have let it all go to your head.
Tell me, exactly what makes you and other TV and Movie personalities qualified to determine who should lead this nation. I see nothing in your background that leads me to believe that you understand the politics of this nation, and how to save what we have at this point. I really don't think you are even worried bout Health Care, Social Security, nor do you have a child in this war. So exactly what make you the expert here?
Oprah, and am not only a Little Offended, I am a LOT Offended.
it is refreshing to see that racism is alive and well here in america. so when a white person supports a white person that is racist as well. I guess it is impossible to believe that an intelligent black male may be the best candidate for the job...hey... that sounds like corporate america. ps. how many blacks do these networks have on the air...even the number for the industry leader...by far... CNN is embarassingly low... what this tells us is that we still live in a racist society, and most of the white public supports, nurtures, and enforces its tenants.
I wonder if Al Gore, Robert Redford, or any other major white male figure had openly supported Obama if White America would be as openly offended by that person appearing to be "selling out to Black Americans." Would they openly call him N.... Lover and everything else, but a child of GOD? Would those same people who were offended by Oprah’s support of Obama, would they be offended if she instead supported Hillary? Or would they be saying glad Oprah is supporting Hillary (controlling the black vote), but keep her distance because we don't want to alienate the white voters because a black person and the rest of Black America is endorsing Hillary. This just shows that as a country we still have a major race relations issue. That people still have a superiority inferiority complex when it comes to race. Diversity makes us better at all levels of government and society.
WE SUPPORT HILLARY '08
She's the only one who can "roll up her sleeves and clean up the mess" left by the GOP - NOT dreamer boy!!
Or vote Biden or Richardson b/c God save our country if the newbie gets elected – who isn't even wise enough to realize what he DOESN'T KNOW yet; let alone play pin-the-tail-on-the-donkey in the Oval Office –> He clearly should have waited until 2012 or 2016. He's only 47, but he's such a baby that he's demanding to be King now
Sadly the great Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Senator Obama is certainly NOT!!!! AND Oprah should stick with her own life and hawking her Book Club (which she can't even get right all the time either).
NO MORE having to explain to our children – why it's (NOT) OKAY for the President Of Our Nation to do drugs!!! It's time to take back our country and make America proud again.
JUST SAY NO – TO OBAMA IN 2008
This is a trend that has become ever-too common.
Just imagine what would happen if all of the presedential candidates were black, except for one. Then, a rich white celebrity publicly endorsed and went on the campaign trail with that one white candidate. The media uproar would be ridiculous, and the racist cries would be everywhere.
There is an increasing double-standard for racism in this country, and this is just one more example of it.
I don't like it when any celeb gets involved in politics. They should stick with what they know and let the politicians go about their business. I never did like Oprah Winfrey anyway. She's a narcissisistic, racist, egotistical, washed up, publicity hound. Go do your little talk show and leave the politics to those in the know. Bye Bye Oprah.
Obama,Hillary..they are all the same. Check out RON PAUL, and I gaurantee you will fall in love with him.
Oprah IS ONE OF THE MOST POWERFULL MEDIA PEORSEN IN THE WORLD .
YES SHE HAS THE SAME RIGHTS TO VOTE AS ANYONE ELSE .
BUT TO PROMOTE A CANDIDATE WGO IS NOT EVEN QULIFIED ,FOR THE MOST CRIDICAL JOB IN THE WORLD ,IS NOTHING SHORT OF NEGLEGENTS .
I AM SO DISOPOINTED ,THAT I HAVE NO DESIRE TO WHATCH HER SHOW ANYMORE .
SHE IS A STAR AND CAN CREATE SO MUCH SHOPPING POWER ,THAT WHEN PEOPLE WHO DO NOT KNOW POLITICS ONLY LISTEN TO OPRH AND COULD BE A FATAL BLOW TO AMERICA .
OBAMA IS A BRILLIENT YOUG MEN ,BUT WE NEED SAMEONE VERY VERY POLITIACAL SHARP KNOWHOW AND STRONG .
THIS TIME IT IS NOT WHO CAN WIN ,IT IS WHO CAN SAVE OUR AMAERICA AND IN I THINK THAT IS SENATOR CLINTON .
THEA SCHLOSSER AUTHOR
BEYOND THE DARK CLOUD
CFIDS-FIBROMYALGIA
What everyone fails to realize is that blatant abuse of star power is in the works here. She is an icon and has brainwashed half of America! There should be a law against abusing such powers...........I'm sure there would be a 'march' against it if Oprah was white!
People need to get over it, this isn't anything new!!! Of course she likes him and wants him to win, that is why she was on the campaign trail. Nobody complains when jimmy buffet or whoever supports and performs at their campaigns. You guys are very prejudice and ignorant of the intentions here. Is this the america we live in? One who has nothing better to do than be angry by the actions of other people who are doing nothing wrong? There is no such brain washing, or pitting whites against blacks. You have the right to THINK FOR YOURSELF. SO USE IT. IF you dont want to vote for Obama, God himself couldn't tell you other wise. Or would you blame God too for the endorsement? The level of anger is over ridiculous. Find something better to do in your lives like try to get some one else elected if you aren't happy about it. But don't say that this is "brain washing" because lies, negative attack ads and propaganda are considered the same too. And we know a lot of politicians are very guilty of such disgusting behavior. This is why we are stuck in the mess in Iraq. We were "brainwashed" into thinking WMDs existed there and they didnt. But that is ok, right?
Did anyone else notice how Oprah literally took the center stage at one of the rallies, while Obama walked like a second-class citizen alongside on the ground? I sure noticed! It looks like the only one keeping the black man down in his place is Oprah! Exactly who is the Presidential candidate again? Look at these messages for an example. More people are now so busy venting their mistrust of Oprah or endorsing their belief in HER rights, than are looking at that man as an actual candidate. The guy comes off looking like a weakling who has to depend on women to do his bidding, and the race separation has become even more prevalent. Jeez, did Oprah want to endorse him, or single-handedly ruin his career? I don't know enough about the guy to make a decision about him, but I can't help that I now feel as though he looks like a sad, little puppet. Who wants to vote another "puppet-man" into office? It has skewed my views about him terribly, I'm sorry but that's just the truth. I can't help it, I get this vision of him trying to run the Whitehouse, and Oprah slapping his hands saying: "I told you not to vote this way-the only reason you got this far is because of me...now go to your corner you've been bought and paid for". Yeah, it comes off looking like real progress Oprah! It looks more pitiful and sad than anything, and I'm actually feeling sorry for and more protective of Obama. Yet, I certainly can't see him strong enough to run a country on his own now.
Oprahs true COLORS came out with her ghetto body language
SAY NOOOOOOOO TO OBAMA.... AND CHANGE CHANNEL ON OPRAH.... YOU GO HILLARY KICK SOME BUTT
hEY sHANE I DONT HAVE TO LOOK IN THE MIRROR MY MESSAGE IS CLEAR I JUST DONT WANT HIM IN OFFICE PERIOD..... NO DOUBT ABOUT IT.... THEY ALREADY ACT LIKE WE OWE THEM EVRYTHING GEEESH THINK HOW IT WOULD BE THEN... OH AND FOR SO MANY WHITES BEING AT THE RALLY HMMMMM HE DIDNT WIN OVER HILLLARY.....MAYBE THEY THOUGHT OPRAH WOULD GIVE THEM ALL GIFTS TOO LOL
I think this whole presidential field is a farce and a slap in the face. We have no good candidates. The day I vote for anyone with a muslim sounding name will be the coldest day in hell, it might sound racist but I am entitled to my opinion also. Hilary is a joke also getting her husband to campaign for her, I wonder how many young women he is sleeping with, No more Clintons please. The last good Democrat was JFK and that is sad, Jfk had mostly what is considered Republican views today, LOOK it up it is in the history books. I have grown up in one of the greatest countries in the world and served it in the military for a term, this country really does need some help, but the Democrat candidates are not going to fix it, especially the ones leading in votes. The worst republican candidate is better than the Democrats candidates, sorry but it is true and any real American can see that. Do not get caught up in Oh hes black, if you are black, and do not vote for a woman, just because you are a woman. Vote for whom you feel will not condemn us all please, I know it is tough.
One last thought, Where do these celebrities get off on throwing their views around, we like them for entertainment not their views. Very dissappointed with Ophra, she always seemed like a class act until she just turned all racist on us.
Why is it the candidate with the most money behind them is considered the top candidates? Lets see, maybe because they are backed by people that need them there to screw us middle class americans, we all know this and we still back these idiots. When is the great person we are seeking going to run for president? It is not going to happen in todays society. Do you think our forefathers that started this country really pictured this country as it is today? No I seriously doubt it and I am sure most agree. We need change yes, but not what most of these candidates are talking about.
Why is the media more powerful than our own government? The media can cause wars and influence the unintelligent part of our country. So I guess we are all screwed.
I am very disappointed in Oprah. This is too sensitive of an issue for her to use her celebrity ability to get people to take her side. She sure showed her true self to her fans. Eventually all celebrities go on their head trip.
I think it is wonderful that Oprah is supporting Obama. It is a free country she should be allowed to say who she is supporting regardless of race. I do not believe that she has doen anything wrong to her fans. It is a disgrace for people nowadays in society to still try to justify everything with race.