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!

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.

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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
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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 wti