Obama does not have "Muslim roots."

Way to help spread the whisper campaign through an astoundingly misleading headline, Ticker.

I couldn't agree more. Obama's personal and familial diversity could be a great asset when he conducts relations with foreign leaders.

I'm happy someone finally sees that his "islamic heritage" may be a strength and not a weakness.

"The most awful assumption made here is that because Indonesia is a predominately Muslim country is that they speak Arabic and would even refer to a school as a madrassa.

Indonesians speak the Indonesian language

the translation for primary school is

Sekolah dasar

So the use of Madrassa to Obama's school is 100% Invalid because it was not in an Arabic country."

Seems like the Clinton campaign has moved from the Politics of Planting 101 (Questions)… to the Politics of Planting 102 (Seeds of doubt).

Unbelievable! Yet, another misleading story headline to push the FALSE story that Sen. Obama is a Muslim.

This is shameful for CNN to push this story.

You mean the "former Senator" who just endorsed Hillary Clinton right?

Hillary's surrogates would never want to place fear into the voters of Iowa or New Hampshire.

The former Senator, Bob Kerrey, is just "happy" for Obama and wanted to remind everyone of how Muslim he is and his middle name is Hussein right?

Not buying this smear campaign by the Clintons. Obama is the best choice for 2008.

What ever happened to the crusades where christans beheaded millions of people…Has anyone listened to the christan leadership talk or any any any of the figureheads and politicans..They would love to start crucifying anyone who dosnt believe what they believe if we would let them, i dont think theres any doubt they would love to start beheading people if they could get away with it…Obama and his muslim roots are just making the christans thirsty for the good old days…Start trashing him not will save them the trouble later of giving a potentially large chunk of pissed off muslims in this country someone to believe in…Im glad we shift races to hate every once and awhile…Variety is the spice of life

Wouldn't it be refreshing to have a president who has personal experience with Muslims, and foreign countries in general. Honestly, after these last 7 years, I'd be happy with someone who knows basic geography. I can't wait for a day when our president will know the difference between a nation and a continent.

Yeah, this is another smear job.. Kerrey used the word madrassa… instead of a public school. His father was a religious skeptic, not a practicing Muslim. That is not innocent. I just am so fed up. Why don't they criticize his policies or his record… why stoop so low to use Karl Rove tactics? It's just disgusting. Clinton is becoming the caricature that the Republicans had created of her.

We know what Kerrey is doing and he should be ashamed of himself! How low will these Clintonistas sink….

Wow…these guys would have derailed Moses as the leader of God's people because he was raised by Pharoah's sister.

They know Obama wasn't raised by his father. They know Obama is a Christian. But, the worst part is, this Clinton gang is playing the dirty, divisive, politics they accuse the Republicans of playing.

Add Kerrey & the Clinton's to the list of Democrats who are holding the country back!

Obama “can speak in an authentic way to underperforming black youth who I think will follow his example.”

what a good way to endear yourself to that part of the electorate, Mr. Kerrey…

And why on earth would you endorse Clinton, but then make statements like this that seem to support another candidate?

What the hell is "Muslim ancestry"?

CNN is trying it's very best to say it without saying it… This article is laden with innuendo and subtle FOX News-style accusations. "Obama is Christian but his father was Muslim as is his paternal grandmother and Obama lived in Indonesia, a Muslim country, early in his childhood." — Note the emphasis on the word Muslim… It's fairly transparent, though what else could one expect from the Clinton News Network?

Here is CNN trying to smear Obama again by raisiing this muslim garbage again.

Kerrey makes a good argument for Obama's strength. Please let's not miunderstand him. The difference between his comments and those of Shaheen and like Daylight and darkness.

OBAMA '08.

What this Former senator Bob Kerrey, D-Nebraska deliberately ignores is the fact that, Barack was two years old when his father "Barack Hussein Obama", left him and his mother, Barack never met nor lived with his fathers's muslim parents all his childhood and adulthood life. Barack is a born again christian.His name was given to him by his father, not as a baptism but as a family name.

Ugh no bob your dumb. I wouldnt trade "roots: for the hands on respect Joe Biden has earned through out the world. Thats a measure of leadership. Not your releigious ancestry.

We the voters disagree!

I don't agree with Kerrey. Most people will never forget what happened on 911. Sorry but it is true. Guilt by association. When we think of that day. We think Muslims radicals. As far as Obama being a role model for black youth. I don't know on that one. Should we go back to his youth?

Hm, very interesting.
I think it has a possible point.
However, will these foreign countries like that he is American and is a Christian nonetheless?

An indorsement by Kerry is like a french kiss from your Grandmother.

This is a very cute way to get Obama's name and the word Muslim in the same sentence without accusing him of being one. While I am the last person on earth who wants Obama to be President, I still find this amusing.. a Clinton supporter saying oh yeah, this guy has a Muslim background, that'll be useful!

Talk about a backhanded compliment.

QUESTION TO FORMER PRESIDENT CLINTON "Hey Bill, why do many of your former foreign policy advisors back Obama over your wife?"

ANSWER: "Probably because they've been out of a job for so long that they've run out of unemployment — and Hillary wants all fresh new faces."

slick.

I was surprised by this article until
i saw this guy supported Clinton.

The point is to link Obama with Muslims and "underperforming black youth," topics which have historically not played well in the minds and psyche of middle America.

These guys are just awful. Minor but effective smear that Obama will have a hard time fighting without alienating those groups to which he is being linked.

This is BS, in my opinion– all those Muslims around the world that hate us would overlook Obama's ancestry and focus more on his current beliefs. And the comment about "underperforming black youth" needing a role model is ridiculous– there are plenty of successful black people in American culture for youngsters to look up to, such as Bill Cosby and Oprah. Neither one of these reasons seems sufficient enough to elect someone as inexperienced as Obama. Let's look at the big picture when electing a candidate, shall we?

While the above statements from Kerrey are not the complete story, I think it does continue the same campaign tactics that Shaheen was used for recently. Hillary Clinton can say what she wants to try and deny any involvement or wrong doing, but in the end she is supposed to be leading this campaign of hers, and yet all we see are disruptions and confusion within her ranks. To me it has proven that she cannot lead this country if she can't even keep her own campaign in order. She is already resembling the current administration with her attempts to disassociate her involvement from negative aspects of her campaign, and it is rather pitiful to watch. You also have the fact that multiple people have resigned from her campaign, and I'll bet that a couple more will before the end of February.

Kerrey does try to explain his statements, and I can't give him a hard time for trying to establish a different perspective on Obama's background. But if he were really trying to be positive about it he wouldn't bother to say Muslim this, and Muslim that. It's simply a bit tactless regardless of the truth. I too find Barack Obama's past to be one of great intrigue and I think it will be an important factor in his presidential success's should he get elected.

I am curious to why he thinks so highly of Barack Obama, and yet is backing someone that has been rather childish about her sliding poll numbers, and has been attacking Obama almost exclusively because of it? And did he just admit to the smear campaign? I know he didn't say directly that it was coming from the Clinton camp, but in light of recent news I think it is pretty clear that would be the case. With Shaheen recently stepping down after his comments, and now this positive spin from Kerrey on Obama's background… I just like the fact that everytime Hillary Clinton and her campaign try to do to take down Obama, she loses more votes and supporters.

Either CNN cherry picked the hell out of this interview or Bob Kerry endorsed Hillary by mistake. Knowing CNN what they chose to put in print is highly selective especially if it makes Hillary look bad.

I think that Obama has made it clear several times that he is not a Muslim, but he is a Christian. His name might have some connection with Islam and the Muslims in this world, but I don't know if that is enough to give him "substantial strength" to persuade any predominate Muslim country more than if he had a African or European name.

I believe that Senator Kerrey is incorrect about this. I am not quite sure that the family connection would be enough.

I admit I am just a white guy who hates the Clinton's, but could these words EASILY be percieved as thinly veiled shots against Obama disguised as "good intentions"?

First they push the drug thing out there, now applauding his muslim roots. Hmmmm.

Maybe I am wrong, but I HONESTLY DON'T think I am.

Read this and tell me it is either poorly thought out or flat out RACIST:

"The former senator, who has endorsed Sen. Hillary Clinton, also said that “as an African-American,” Obama “can speak in an authentic way to underperforming black youth who I think will follow his example.”

Is anybody seeing this attempt at the Clinton Camp to use a surrogate to paint a negative light on Obama? This is actually a brilliant attack with a few factual inaccuracies. Obama's father left him when Obama was 2 years old. Furthermore Obama's father was (by all accounts) hardly a strict follower of Islam. Obama only spent 4 years in Indonesia and left when he was 10 years old. His real strength is honesty, charisma, integrity, and not speaking with forked tongue…like some other candidates.

This is more of the same smear campaign but with a twist…

This from a man who has trouble tying his own shoelaces? Awww, Senator Kerry we still love you :o)

This is clearly a thought out covert attack meant to spread fear throughout Hillary's mass of uneducated supporters.

I to think that Obama's exposure to many faiths gives him a better perspective on how to unite the world with America. It sounds high and mighty to suggest such a thing, but it is my audacity to hope for a better tommorrow.

an honest / honorable comment. agree on both points of his. nonetheless, until obama spells out his ideas and plans with courage and conviction, he deserves little.

Bravo, Sen. Kerrey, I've been saying that for weeks. At least he will be able to relate to Muslim heads of state and has a better chance of earning their respect and cooperation.

I was very disappointed in this interview, since I believe that Senator Bob Kerrey missed a golden opportunity to highlight a number of critical aspects of Senator Obama's candidacy, which now places him in the lead or a share of the lead for a number of the early voting primary states.

Senator Obama brings to the American Presidency substantial experience as an expert in Constitutional Law, having lectured in Constitutional Law at the University of Chicago. His rise through the political ranks from a state legislator to the U.S. Senate demonstrates a bottom-up understanding of how politics connects with the American people in practical ways that affect their day-to-day lives.

Moreover, Senator Obama's prescience on Iraq in 2002 and most recently on the unstable situation in Pakistan, demonstrate a nuanced understanding of how increasingly fragile and dangerous our world has become. In these uncertain times, American seeks a President who is ahead of the curve in discerning the global state of affairs; and Senator Obama has offered critical leadership in this area, most notably on Iraq and Pakistan.

The forthrightness of Senator Obama on his foreign policy endeavors as President, namely engaging some of America's most vocal critics in Iran and Venezuela in direct high-level talks with the President, display, in my view a serious and practical in-the-trenches commitment towards restoring America's standing in the international community as a friend of all nations and the benevolent superpower of our times.

As one of the youngest candidates in the Democratic Nomination race, he is an inspiration to ALL young Americans of our Ipod and MySpace generation, inclusive of the black youth that former Senator Kerrey mentions. In an age where the fresh faces of Mark Zuckerberg and the young billionaire co-founders of Google Larry Page and Sergey Brin dominate business headlines; and in a world where a precocious Tiger Woods sits at the precipice of rewriting all of golf’s records before the golden age of 40, an Obama presidency speaks to potent agency of young people in America. Young people can make a difference! — and even while they are yet young. Senator Obama speaks directly to our hearts as young people concerning the great wealth of talent resident within each of us for change. Senator Obama follows in the great legacy of our beloved President John F. Kennedy and Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King, who despite their youthful age — and because of their hope and optimism in America's greatness — lead America with wisdom and leadership beyond their years. Given a longer period of time in the Situation Room, I am sure that Senator Kerrey would have cited these positive attributes possessed by Senator Obama.

The rest of America recognizes the great opportunity that we have to elect a President who would have kept us out of Iraq, kept Pakistan more accountable, and who having worked as a community organizer in the South Side of Chicago, following his graduation from Harvard Law School, understands the concerns of everyday Americas such as his wife, Michelle’s, blue-collarded dad or his own Kansas-born mother. Senator Obama looks like us — America, that is — multi-cultural, multiracial, hopeful and optimistic, yet practical and hardworking. He will get the job done and we know he will.
Thank you, Senator Kerrey, for getting the conversation started on Senator Obama's strengths. You have allowed America to talk freely about the type of competent stewardship of our economic resources and military might that we require from our President, as well as the compassionate heart and hopeful leadership that led JFK and FDR to ignite the greatness within each and every American. America is stronger and safer with a President who understands the world abroad and connect with the hopes and aspirations of the American people at home. Senator Obama can do both, and will make a fine President as a result.

there is not a smear campaign against Obama to be Muslim. He is a Muslim person. His first and middle name say that,his ancestry and father are. If Obama will be president, he will represent the Muslim people and terrorist muslim too. The Muslim people will say " We have the power, one of us is President or vice-president of USA." Because we said that when a Latino is in the high level of United State government, we are proud of it. Here in Canada we have a color Governor General, who represent the Queen,she is nice, but she is not muslim. But the different between Latino people and Muslim is that we, latino not hate american people, because we are living in a Capital system and we like it, we are free people and we believe in the Law and Democracy. Never mind if Obama is Christian or not. He is Muslim. Why African America didn't elect his own people.He didn't represent the Slave people which Abraham L.believe in the change of America for a better future of liberty. He died for the color people that help them to be free of slave, and the color people that help to build America.I know Osama oop! Obama is the color, but it's not enough to be President of the United State. He is a descendent muslim, What American people are thinking? He is Senator is okay. But President of United State? give a break.I'm a emigrant and I send my son at the age of 6 to my country to live with my family and learn from them,our culture,food and believes, to be Christian and learn about the Bible,go the the church, etc. Now that my son is teenager,Until now, he remember and think in our people how to help them because our country is poor, and need help from American government. Thank God american always help our government. So, Obama parent send him to learn his culture.He didn't go there to learn English, to be Christian or learn American culture, or democracy.
Now CNN, you need to do more about this topic. I think it's so important for American to discuss it. Don't think that it will be race, not, it's important to American to wake up.
When I see Osama, oop! Obama on TV or debate, he need to learn more and the President position need somebody with experience,knowledge, and be tough. Like our Prime Minister Harper, here in Canada. The most Canadian didn't like him,but Canadian people were smart to elected him because he is Conservative,he believe in protect Canadian values,the family and the important of it (man and woman and children),the media didn't like him, but he is tough and he is getting the job done, he is cleaning the mess that other opposition party left.Our economy is strong and he is applying a lot new policies to get the job done. Now,our Prime Minister Harper is getting support for Canadian because he's getting the job done. Our Prime Minister said, that he will work with the next elect President of United State.If American want to continue with the power of the world, then you need to elect a tough president for the next election. I hope to help you with some ideas to discuss in the future. I like CNN a lot!! It's the best!!!

yeah that is what we need - someone who can "cooperate" with the terrorists. Obama will have this country under Islamic rule if he gets elected.

We've got enough carbon footprints in this country already. All the Muslims need to go back and play in the sand. I hope you women don't mind wearing headgear everyday and receiving lashes for being seen with a man who you are not married to. But at least when we all die (at least the men) we'll get 70 virgins to make our trip to mecca more pleasant. I guess the women will just end up taking the eternal sand nap. Good luck folks, your gonna need it.

Mr. Kerry,

While i respect your honesty on Obama, i'm still upset to see you hitching your horse to the Hillary post. As a Nebraskan who voted for you time and again, i am afraid i must say i am actually disappointed in your choice.

BUT

as a good Christian i must forgive you - as you know not what you do.

The Bush/Clinton Regime Ends NOW!

thank you

It's good to see Kerrey praising Barack Obama as being diverse and able to connect with alot of people and bring about change more so than Hillary Clinton. But he is making these statements as if they are major revelations, I think people realize this. What is tricky about his statement however is that he is acknowledging the smear campain as if it were factual and is saying it's a "substantial strength". The smear campaign that some of Hillary's volunteer and supporters are emailing is not factual information and is used as a scare tactic, and that is not a "substantial strength". So Thanks Senator Kerrey just make sure you make that distinction about the smear campaign which are lies and the good things your saying about his background. As an Obama supporter I Look forward to having your formal endorsement after the primaries.

Is it just me or can others see through this as well. Bob Carey, a Hillary endorser, bring out the "Muslim" factor about Obama while keeping things positive. Now that's a great attack, if I have ever seen one.

If america is open minded enough to elect a black man with muslim parents it would speak volumes to other countries and black youth that feel that they can't move foward in this country regardless of what they do.

I say this AS a Black youth with a former Muslim parent

Funny how no other candidate's last name is ever mentioned.

Kerry says,

The former senator, who has endorsed Sen. Hillary Clinton, also said that “as an African-American,” Obama “can speak in an authentic way to underperforming black youth who I think will follow his example

Kerrey's comments also speak in an "authentic" American way to these youth — "Even if you black kids study hard, go to Ivy League universities, and make Harvard Law Review, you might be good enough to be a youth leader, but heaven forbid you should set your sights on being leader of the free world."

Hardcore and moderate Muslims tend to take a dim view toward fellow Muslims that switch to Chritianity, so I fail to see how this would help foreign policy.

I think it's all the more powerful for his ability to really understand people of other cultures because he was exposed to different viewpoints at suhc a young age.

Too bad Obama isn't a Muslim and never was. He's a Christian!

Shame on you, CNN, for repeating the lie!

I absolutely agree with Senator Kerrey’s statement but question the timing and sincerity of his statements. I know the statement appeared to come across as a positive one but as a Clinton supporter did he bring this up just to link Obama to the Muslim religion? Is the Clinton team playing on the fears of the American public? If that was the goal of this statement it was executed brilliantly, in a way that will avoid criticism for both Kerrey and HRC.

It’s a sad day in politics when we have to question the motivation behind every thing said about an opponent by anyone connected with a rival campaign but the Clinton team has clearly shown over the past few weeks that they will do and say anything to get her elected. Muslim e-mails, drug dealer implications, “rolling the dice”, I could go on.

It’s interesting that three months ago when everyone was telling Obama he had to go negative he refused and insisted his campaign focus on the issues. Now when people started suggesting to Clinton that she go negative she either supported it (does any one really believe that Shaheen was acting on his own) or has lost control over a number of people on her campaign team. I ask you; who has shown the leadership and judgment you want in your next President?

Why do you guys even give the story any air time? Do you realize you're doing the exact same thing as was done with Kerry in 2004? Small story becomes overblown only because the media relentlessly covers it. You're giving credibility to a ridiculous rumor by even covering it…pathetic. This is going to be the swiftboating of Obama.

There's been a lot of chatter across the web about whether this was an attempt by the Clinton camp to smear Obama. Someone over at another forum posted this comment, which I think is right on the money:

". . . the test to see whether this was underhanded or not is simple. People are claiming that Kerrey's words don't amount to smear because (a) they're true; (b) Obama himself hasn't disavowed his mixed race heritage; and (c) they were framed in the form of a compliment.

Suppose instead that someone from Obama's camp had expressed the hope that Hilary's experience as the wife of a cheating husband be "used in some way." It's all true, right? Hilary hasn't disavowed the fact, and like millions of women around America and the world, she nobly stuck by Bill despite his marital indiscretions. She could connect with this wronged segment of society by presenting women with the example of a wife who succeeds in her career despite the waywardness of a philandering spouse. As Kerrey says: that experience would be "a substantial strength."

Such a remark would be little more than an attempt to smear Hilary with feigned praise. It's not about ignoring the facts; it's about using them to draw meaningful distinctions. And it's telling that you don't find Obama or anyone on his payroll stooping so low."

ANYONE BUT OMBAMA

I agree that being the son of a goat herder, having a grandmother who lives in a small village in Africa and having lived outside the United States has given Mr. Obama priceless life experience. Likewise a familiarity with the Muslim faith can only be an asset. How can we work with the international community unless we understand it? He does. He is who we desperately need to mend our relationship with the world.

sam & daphne- why are you upset? Obama does have muslim connections. He never talks about his muslim connections. He just ignores it and starts talking about his last two decades with trinity church. Problem is that Obama is 46 so we know what he has been doing for last 20 years. Question is WHAT WAS HE FOLLOWING TILL THE AGE OF 26?

Hillary Clinton's campaign is pushing racism against Obama! She went really low this time.

He gives him a compliment, and people are on the 'Blame Billary' Bandwagon faster than Ron Paul gets donations.

It was a compliment, and a well-sighted one at that. If he makes it, it will show the world that we really are a free-thinking nation that does not rule according to a religious sect.

Some people just can't say anything right, though.

This is yet another smear tactic by the Hillary Clinton campaign. Have Bob Kerrey come on CNN and link Barack Obama to the Muslim religion, even though Obama's not Muslim. It's a shame CNN doesn't see through this pathetic and unethical swift-boating of Obama and report it as such.

It is starting. Let the smear begin.

The real question is– Will America see through this backhanded compliment? Or will they be fooled just like in 2004.

The Clinton's true colors are shining through. I want the Clintons to continue to promote the smear through other persons, essentially alienating her base. If you really think Obama and Edwards' supporters will rally behind her if she gets the nomination, I think you're mistaken.

This one, most certainly will not.

Wallace

It is starting. Let the smear begin.

The real question is– Will America see through this backhanded compliment? Or will they be fooled just like in 2004.

The Clinton's true colors are shining through. I want the Clintons to continue to promote the smear through other persons, essentially alienating her base. If you really think Obama and Edwards' supporters will rally behind her if she gets the nomination, I think you're mistaken.

This one, most certainly will not.

USA Today/Gallup
Clinton (D) 49, Giuliani (R) 48
Clinton (D) 53, Huckabee (R) 44
Clinton (D) 52, Romney (R) 46

Obama (D) 51, Giuliani (R) 45
Obama (D) 53, Huckabee (R) 42
Obama (D) 57, Romney (R) 39

Obama is more electable than Clinton.
Don't lose this election to the republicans, vote for Obama.

Ok..so he can relate..erh…"speak to them". The big point here…is does he have "something to say"? And if so, does he have the wherewithal and support to follow through.

Bob Kerry and Hillary Clinton must really listen to Karl Rove. This kind of sideways slime can only be delivered by professional sleeze.

The very essence of schoolyard taunting is at the heart of Bob Kerry's remark. He knows he can hide behind the plausibility of praising Obama's multicultural roots. Yet, as a Clinton supporter, he also believes that connecting Obama's childhood and name to muslim ancestors will smear him in some quarters.

There is nothing lower than a smear that combines: (1) name calling; (2) religious baiting; (3) racial/ethnic code language; and (4) plausible deniability.

Hillary Clinton knew he would say this; she knew her husband would say what he said on Charlie Rose; and she knew that her top staff (Penn & Shaheen) would ridicule Obama as well.

This pattern is more than merely negative. It has the earmarks of sinister.

Even if one assumes it is not orchestrated, then the incompetence of the campaign reflects just as poorly on this flawed, imploding Clinton campaign.

I am getting so disgusted with Clinton surrogates going out and doing to same politics of personal destruction that so bothered them in the past.

Have you no shame Senator?

This is race-baiting and playing on people's fears and distrust. If people liked Karl Rove, they should be loving the Clintons right now.

Some "change agent."

Thank you Senators Clinton and Kerrey, you have sealed my vote for Senator Obama.

Just when you thought it was safe to forget Willie Horton… I guess "diplomacy" isn't the only thing the Clinton campaign has picked up from George H.W. Bush.

Such a shame that this organization is bent on exploiting (the often race-oriented) cultural fears, instead of focusing on bringing folks together under her banner.

How clever..Praise Obama by mentioning his father was a Muslim. That way you can let people know his Muslim backgroud (which is a definite negative these days in America)and supposedly praise him at the same time..The Clinton campaign has outdone itself this time..

I actually think Hillary's stick-to-it marriage is "a substantial strength"

" I think Hillary would be an excellent spokesperson for women whose husbands have cheated on them many times. You see, Bill had many affairs before and during his presidency most noteably a White House Intern. But now Bill has reconciled with his wife and is making things good again by fully supporting Hillary with her career as a politician. I think the Clinton's are an excellent model of how to stick through it in tough times. Hillary has really shown through all the adultery that she is able to take it all in stride and raise a great family, a quality that would be great if Hillary wins the White House.

This Obama is a muslim story was started a year ago by FOX news when Obama had that cake walk of Senatorial race (Jack Ryan dropped out).

the real story is about how Obama has never been vetted and will get clobbered in the electoral college for the states of Ohio, Pennsylvania, Iowa, and Florida

I admit I am just a white guy who hates the Clinton's, but could these words EASILY be perceived as thinly veiled shots against Obama disguised as "good intentions"?

First they push the drug thing out there, now applauding his Muslim roots. Hmmmm.

Maybe I am wrong, but I HONESTLY DON'T think I am.

Read this and tell me it is either poorly thought out or flat out RACIST:

"The former senator, who has endorsed Sen. Hillary Clinton, also said that “as an African-American,” Obama “can speak in an authentic way to underperforming black youth who I think will follow his example.”

How low can they go? I was really warming up to the idea of voting for for Mrs. Clinton in my first ever primary (I just became an American citizen), I am now convinced that she is not it. If all her people could do to keep her up in the polls is to talk about Obama's parents who have died years ago.

I was surprised by how many digs John Kerrey could take at Barack Obama, and how backhanded the remarks were. Both Kerrey and Hillary Clinton - upon whose endorsement John took the opportunity to deride Obama - ought to respect a candidate who has treated them with respect. It's the trademark attack on others that characterizes the Clintons. Well, Hillary has something she wants to tell you. She’s just too shy to tell you herself. Do you remember, after the fall of the old Soviet Union, the 1990s economy was driven by massive military cutbacks? The Clintons were savvy enough to plow lots of that dirty old money into the US Department of Education. (Teachers Union, already onboard with Hillary.) Beating swords into plowshares, the “peace dividend,” it was a job of work. Then, in 1995, Bill & Hillary founded the incredibly lucrative West Coast Finishing School for Thugs. The rest, you know, is history. But again, Hillary should be telling you this: http://theseedsof9-11.com

Pathetic smear! We know exactly who Obama is. And we really like him.

If there is any doubt about whether this is racist and prejudiced, then take his earlier statements and replace all of the Muslim comments with Jewish: "I think [Insert Jewish name here]'s name may be a weakness to Republicans, but I think it is a strength. First, he is [Jewish], and he can speak to [young Jews] in a way that no white person can. I mean there are hundreds of millions of [Jews] in the world and he can speak to them in a way that no one can" "lead with it as a strength. There's this nonsense out there about him being a [Jewish] Manchurian candidate. He should do a commercial, look the camera straight in the eye, and say, 'My wife Michelle and I are Christians, but my father was a {Jew] and my paternal grandfather was a [Jew], and that fact and my name means I can speak to [millions of] people around the world who need to hear from the United States."

First Kerrey is not Clinton's campaign.
Second, yes, all the Muslim details are true. Use it or leave it.

RHLee :

You apparently haven't been looking at any news source other than CNN.

USA Today just reported today that Barack Obama polls better in battleground states than Hillary Clinton does.

In Iowa, which is 97% white and predominantly rural, Obama is currently favored to win the caucus and also win that state in the general.

First off, I agree that Obama's background gives him a better perspective when dealing with both Muslim countries and African countries.

However, I also think that the Clinton campaign sees the possibility to inovke fear and prejudice among voters. I don't think she is necessarily prejudiced herself but I do think she would exploit anything she thought would help her win.

I was surprised by how many digs John Kerrey could take at Barack Obama, and how backhanded the remarks were.

Posted By Peggy McGilligan, Washington, DC

Peggy,

This endorsement came from Bob Kerrey, NOT John Kerry. Unlike the Senator from Massahussetts, Sen. Kerrey is a former Navy SEAL and true war hero. This is coming from a conservative that is not used to complimenting liberals.

Oh the shame of it all.

She's got so much help. Ex senators, Big Daddy Bush, Ex President and husband Bill Clinton.

So much help and this is the best her campaign can do? Not only that. These tactics are old. didn't we tell her we want new and change, not smear and same?

I never liked Bob Kerrey very much; there was always something about him that I didn't like. Now I know why I never liked him.
As far as Hillary and Bubba Clinton are concerned, I would never vote for Hillary because I feel she is using subtle racial negatives to smear Obama and her husband, Bubba Clinton is doing her dirty work for her.
If Hillary and Bubba win the nomination, I will vote for Huckabee if he wins the Republican nomination. I would consider Romney because my mother was a big fan of his father, George Romney. I would also vote for Ron Paul. I would never vote for Giuliana because he is just another Bubba Clinton skirt chaser.

It's pretty obvious that Kerrey, a Clinton-supporter, is raising the issue of Obama's 'Muslim ancestry' as a smear in the guise of a compliment. I didn't expect these kinds of underhanded attacks to happen until we were facing off against the Republican candidate. Ugh, I'm going to be sick…

I wish Obama would tell these folks thank you but no thank you on the compliments! Funny, they weren;t 'complimenting' him when like he said his poll numbers were 20 below.

Last I checked "Muslim" was not a race but a regligious choice. So how is it being racist?

This is just another indicator of how the Clinton campaign is losing and trying desperately to regain its footing. Funny a short time ago, when Hillary was in the lead Obama was a nice guy. Now you have spineless Clinton edorsers who have sold out to the Clinton Machine, willing to make political kamikaze's (Bill Sheehan) and this guy. All of a sudden you have a recycled Magic Johnson endorsement story, and Campaign about people who know the "real" Hillary. lol. Who's next in line from the clinton camp to make an off the cuff attack, so Hillary can say she has no idea what's going on and "fire".

It,s bad enough he used to be or still is a closet muslim but the main thing i,m worried about he is a devout communist.

Too bad Obama isn't a Muslim and never was. He's a Christian!

Shame on you, CNN, for repeating the lie!

Posted By Bethany, St. Louis MO : December 18, 2007 10:33 am
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another pothead in complete denial of Obama's muslim roots. Can't change how he was raised.

Obama is NOT African-American; he's mixed race. Why does the media and his campaign refuse to admit that?

A good save for him.

Thanks for pointing out Obama's muslim root though, although Obama has been trying hard to hide it, like not using his middle name "hussein".

Now that reminds me Obama didnt pledge his allegiance to the american flag….

It,s bad enough he used to be or still is a closet muslim but the main thing i,m worried about he is a devout communist.

Posted By b. moore johnson city tn. : December 18, 2007 2:12 pm

The main thing I'm worried about is devout idiots like you, moore. Do us all a favor and keep your ignorant ass home on election day.

Seems like in his bid to be a VP candidate, he has fallen to great levels.

Gloria Brizuela:

You are DUMB on so many levels! Just because his first and last name say he's Muslim doesn't mean he is. And quite frankly, I've been Muslim my entire life and have never heard of the name Barak Obama. My last name is a Catholic, but I'm still Muslim. Name have nothing to do with it. A friend of mine has an Arabic last name, this doesn't automatically make her Muslim, she is Christian. It's SO sad to see how ignorant some people are.

Posted By Gloria Brizuela, Halifax, Canada : December 18, 2007 9:52 am
I am Canadian and please let me apologize on behalf of my country for this low-level intellectual moron. I am in utterly shocked that we have such morons among us. I am an aficionado of Obama he is truly sui generis –God bless him. Obama/Bloomberg

How naive am I suppose to be? Calculated, underhanded…in the gutter dirty politics. A few months ago, I would have happily voted for any of the Democratic candidates. No Longer. I will not under any circumstances vote for Hillary Clinton. President Huckabee? So be it. I'll move to London.

CAN SOMEBODY "PLEASE" DO A HUNDRED STORIES ON HIS "WHITE" "CHRISTIAN" MOTHER FROM KANSAS?!?!?

I've lost all respect for Bob Kerrey. This seems like a sleaze tactic to me. Anything to get that "Muslim" connection out. Personally, I really wouldn't care if he were Muslim, but he is Christian!! This is all fear-mongering, baiting these people who hate and fear Muslims.
Then the comment about being able to talk to "underperforming black youth" - could this be a sneaky way to bring up Obama's youth, when he used some dope?
Yeah, sounds like it is out of Karl Rove's handbook.
I agree, let's start hearing about his white Christian mother!!
Shame on you Kerrey

The roots of racism run so deeply in our country that any mention of differences causes distress for some. I would like to believe we are above that, but it's clear there are many that are not yet there. Having an understanding of differences can only help us with diplomacy. An eye for an eye mentality of this administration has not made America respected throughout the world. We need to overcome how we are currently viewed. Bush makes us look like a dictatorship desiring an empire by colonizing the middle east and controlling it's oil. It's going to take a very good leader to overcome these past seven plus years. I believe the Bush family and the Clintons are the most corrupt families we have ever had leading our country. Let's change the current face of our government and find someone that can restore the respect and integrity so lacking at this time. I support Obama because he has come from such a uniquely, diverse background. His understanding of the world, along with the experience he does have, and his good judgment are what our country needs. We DO NOT need one more corporate, lobbyist, pro-war supporter to lead our country. That will only continue the current course our country is on. With a recession looming over us and mistrust a common concern, really take the time to know what these candidates stand for and don't just follow along like blind sheep, or vote for someone simply because of their gender or race. I am female and yet would vote Republican for the first time if Hillary were nominated as the Democratic candidate.

I question the validity of Sen Kerrey's role for the voice of people of color. It is a disservice and an abrubt attack for a white male of privilege to tell us -black people-who and what we need without understanding the role of racisim and historic discrimination in American. Sen Kerrey needs to re-evualte his beliefs before spounting loose ideals.

CAN SOMEBODY "PLEASE" DO A HUNDRED STORIES ON HIS "WHITE" "CHRISTIAN" MOTHER FROM KANSAS?!?!?

Posted By Vince, Phoenix AZ : December 18, 2007 6:43 pm

his mother is not christian. she's an atheist (not that atheists are bad people). and his step father was a radical muslim and he lived in indonesia with them, so he does have a muslim background.

You can not even stand to read these comments anymore, since Obama has started back sliding in Iowa and N.H his supporters on the comment sections have become very negative and name calling. One can sure tell its the younger generation. I believe John Kerry bet a large chunk of his run on the young generation who are least likely to vote. Obama has been claiming it is time to replace the baby boomers. that is 48 and above. I wonder does he realize by history he himself is a baby boomer.