stoopid,stoopid,stoopid! (misspelling intended for effect)

He should now issue an apology to muslims for apologizing to Obama!

Reading through some of the postings on this issue is another clear indication that our schools are failing miserably at fostering critical thinking. In many cases lies now pass for facts because too many of us are so wed to a position we filter out anything that should make us take pause and reevaluate our positions/opinions. Such a sorry state of affairs. This is one of the reasons we got George Bush (twice).

so if i understand this right…..Obama is a communist junki islamic fundamentalist?

ok, just checking..

also I did not know you could inherit muslim. My great great grandfather was a turk…. Does that mean I inherited some muslim from him?

This is such blatant and transparent effort to demean Obama with lies and innuendo it's despicable. Hilary better rein herself and her surrogates in or all the denials about her veracity and fairness will fall on deaf ears.

While I have no problem with his heritage I do wonder about where he goes to church now. The May 07 issue of the magazine I believe it was the United Century Chrsitian had a revealing article on the church and how it was about advancing the African American which normally would be his business but we, when looking for a president need to view all aspects of their lives before making our choice.

FOR ALL WHO MAY HAVE MISSED THIS POST — IT BEARS REPEATING: "I don't know about the rest of you, but I am getting a little sick and tired of Obama's thin skin.

You're running for President of the Unites States of America - suck it up, man!

Jeesh, already!!

Posted By Ron, Regina, Saskatchewan : December 20, 2007 12:16 pm"

**********************
YES from the perspective of a neutral party!!!

KD, I have a middle name too, but I never write it out or really use it. Rodham, is not Hillary's middle name, it's her maiden name. She chose to keep it, hence the Hillary Rodham Clinton. When reading endorses of Hillary, I can't help but notice more glowing words of Obama in them. And they say Hillary as being the most experienced, but I believe that to be Biden or Dodd, maybe even Gravel!! Great Endorsement by Kerrey for Obama, I mean Hillary. Maybe he wants a cabinet position?

Kerry does not have to apologise for STATING FACTS:

He said ""It's probably not something that appeals to him, but I like the fact that his name is Barack Hussein Obama and his father was a Muslim and this his paternal grandmother is a Muslim,” he said at the time."

Yes Obama's father is/was a Muslim and his mother an American White female.

So what! Hillary/Bill do not have to get defensive about their comments, language, remarks on any forum be it Charlie Rose Show or Kerry's event endorsing Hillary. There is no parsing or apology required.

Obama needs to be brought down from the pedestal.

People should not be afraid to attack Obama because of his Muslim / Black heritage.

We can not be labeled “racist” for relevant attacks in this election cycle.

Like Obama and Oprah are BARGAINERS and Bill and Hillary Clinton are CHALLENGERS. Thus Obama brought by his white mother and maternal relations is whiter than Clintons in the abstract!

Obama has not struggled like any Black has or has he experienced segregation like any Black in the US has. Thus Obama does not have a single “Black” bone in his body.

Through their politics, positions and staff hiring the CLINTONS are “blacker” than Obama with all his ex-Clinton aides!

Obama may have the press honeymoon for a while but he can not get the nomination without greater scrutiny.

And scrutiny we need. Operations Research on Obama is not a racist action but part of legitimate politics and campaigning.

Go Hillary44 08! http://hillaryis44.org/

I am voting for Barack Hussein Obama,
A brilliant mind, superb judgment, principled strong character, grounded in the constitution and civil rights

what was his middle name again?

Kerrey's veracity is highly doubtful per sequence of apologies necessitated by Clinton cabinet aspirants. Tis a hopeful 'Hallelujah' chorus.

So, I guess Obama should apologize to himself from bringing up his past drug use in an obvious attempt to smear himself, much as Hillary's New Hampshire co-chair had to last week. He was quoted in the Chicago SunTimes today as saying in response to a question from Katie Couric about whether marital infidelity renders one unfit for the presidency: "I'm very cautious about applying a blanket universal rule to people. Because, you know, I mean, there are some people who might say that the fact that I indulged in drugs when I was young, disqualifies me."

Goodness gracious! The question had nothing to do with his drug use, yet he went out of his way to bring it up! Obama's gone negative on himself. It was a calculated attempt to put the issue out there knowing the harm it could cause. Now what is Ken Burns going to do?!

The MSM in its zeal to build this guy up is turning him into a joke.

Mrs. Bill Clinton wants you to refer to her as Hillary so you can warm up to her and hide the fact she’s a Senator from New York that has no proven record. Senator Clinton is the candidate not Hillary from the Bill Clinton era. Remember that!

Posted By Alice Newman Center Harbor NH : December 20, 2007 9:53 am

You are not deserving of too much wasted time and effort on my part, but the simple fact is that you are a nitwit.

A Democrat spews racist remarks against Obama, and it is Karl Rove's and the Republicans fault?

This was again purposeful by Hillarity, but let's not let the facts get in the way of a good posting.

There is nothing wrong with Kerrey's comment. That is Obama's name. Republicans (they are pretending to be Obama supporters) should relax.

To Will from OKC, OK:
You flatter yourself if you think you are able to read between the lines and determine that I am a racist. Far from it: I'm orignally from Berkeley, the very center of tolerance and civil unrest, and grew up attending civil rights demonstrations. I am absolutely committed to fairness for all, regardless of ethnicity or religion. I've been called a "bleeding-heart liberal" dozens of times for taking positions in support of civil rights. So, when I criticize Obama, it has nothing to do with the fact that he is half-black. It has everything to do with his lack of experience and lack-luster State Senate record He has gotten just about as many miles out of "I was against the war and Hillary voted for it" that he possibly can. What else does he really have to offer? People would like to know. If he wants to be a contender, he'd better start articulating his agenda and policies clearly and show some degree of original thinking in solving our nation's problems. People see through his shallowness and are now beginning to look carefully at the records and experience of all the candidates. The polls are moving in Clinton's direction. Now, people like you want to call people like me "racists" if we point out Obama's weaknesses, whining, and arrogance. By the way, your stupid suggestion that I change my registration to Republican is laughable.

What a lying piece of #$+! - no different than Hillary and her clan.

Bob Kerrey??? Isn't this the same idiot who massacred an entire village full of women and children in My Lai, Vietnam? the guy who should probably be in prison? he has no credibility.

With that said, the people who are going to vote for Obama (myself included) will, regardless of his heritage or religion. Obama needs to say on message and not get derailed by all this nonsense.

Most white people in the country WILL not vote for Obama when it comes down to it. There's still the notion out there that the country is somehow not ready for a black president. There's something called the Bradley effect where white people, when polled, claim to support a minority candidate. then when election day comes around, they go with the white candidate (probably Edwards, in this case). Unfortunately, the country is still mostly white. So Obama probably won't win, even though he's the best candidate. Maybe we blacks need our own country.

To Carol from Redding, CA:

Take your racism elsewhere; your stance that "Go anyone but Obama" while providing pure rhetoric in place of facts for why you don't support him, only highlights your bigotry and ignorance. I've experienced racism my entire life and I've learned to be able to read between the lines.

The Democratic party doesn't want people like you, you need to switch your registration to Republican (although I wouldn't be surprised if you are actually a Republican trying to spread bad rhetoric about the only candidate with the integrity to restore dignity to America).

And you're right, the comment made about Obama's name and his family history wasn't an attack at all; the intent behind it, however, was that of the slimy third party person spreading innuendo so that the candidate (Hillary) would benefit.

The reason he had to apologize is that he LIED about Obama and said he attended a MADRASSA. That is the same LIE that Fox News tried to plant a long time ago. That tie-in to very negative emotions in the population was apparently deliberate.

So - folks who say he has nothing to apologize for - he said a LIE about Obama going to a Madrassa - that we associate with a training center for islamic terrorists.

I find it puzzling that CNN doesn't pick up real stories like this one:

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2007/12/20/obamas-just-present-vo_n_77707.html

I agree with those that claim CNN is afraid of asking tough questions of Senator Obama. I wonder why

When are these "experienced" politicians going to wake up! Just because some are apathetic to politics doesn't equate to being stupid. I don't beleive Kerry for a second. If Hiliary keeps allowing these "slips of the tougue" supporters to do her dirty work, it's going to backfire on her. The campaigns are going great and people respect the fact that candidates are focusing on what they'll work hard to do if elected. Don't spoil it by appearing "desparate" by pulling underhanded tricks like this one. If Clinton keeps this up, she's going to wind up handing the nomination to Obama. Looking at the respectable and dignified way he responds to these underhanded remarks makes me look at longer look at him.

How many times are people associated with the Clinton camp are going to apologize to Obama? You usually don't apologize unless you feel you did something wrong! Why isn't CNN talking about how the Clinton camp will set up 2 websites to attack Obama?

Not only are Kerrey's fresh comments designed to bring this smear back up again, but noreso than that, CNN is purposefully trying to bring it up themselves again and again. It was a non-story. CNN used to seem like an honest news source, but since throwing themselves behind Hillary now seem as bad as FOX. Totally biased.

This letter from "Kerrey" will haunt him for the rest of his political career. As it should because it is only partially truthful. I read a lot of truth about how powerful Obama is in the letter but the manner in which it is written is full on sleezebal tactics. It reeks of Clinton shananogans. They, Bill and Hill should be evicted from politics in the US as of today.

If you cannot see how Kerrey's words can fuel the anti-Obama people then you area fool. Whether or not Kerrey did ti intentionally is really not the point. He misspoke several times to push along the things that have long been debunked about Obama's past. Kerrey DID NOT have to use the word madrassa several times when Obama NEVER attended a madrassa. He attended public school with Jews, Christians and Muslims. It was Indonesia afterall, the country with the most Muslims in the world. Kerrey also kept uttering Obama's middle name, like that should be of any consequence. Let's start referring to Edwards as John Reid Edwards, Biden as Joseph Robinette Biden, and Hillary as Hillary Diana Rodham. So, I ask you, why did Joseph Robert (Bob) Kerrey feel the need to repeatedly use Obama's middle name in that interview over the weekend. Could it be that Hussein is also the last name of Saddam Hussein? Hmmm…nah, Hillary would never allow her surrogate to go on the attack like that.

What is the problem with all you people complaining about this? As many have said before, "Given enough time or drive, someone can find a conspiracy in anything." Instead of looking for a Clinton smear tactic or looking for an insult to Barack, why not read his words. "[Kerrey] told a reporter that he hoped Obama would continue to play a role in public life because he can reach out to Muslims worldwide."
Half of the problem these past 7 years has been Bush's refusal to incorporate other views and other outsiders. This is a statement of praise for his diversity and possible positive impact. Nothing else.Obama has talked non-stop about his outsider view and how his heritage can help mend fences - this is the same thing.

There are many people asking when "she" will be "outed" during this race to the big white house. I am truly amazed that she hasn't been thus far. You know someone has that information and is holding it until just the right time to release it. And it will be all ready to share the goods complete with an apology to aid their own ultimate Prez 08 win.

Why do we put up with this play ground mentality that we call the political game? The US political process is a huge waste of time, energy and money. I recommend we do what the French do. They have the entire Presidential election process done in 6 weeks to 3 months tops. And then they get back to real living.

Right on Horatio!! Right on. You had me laughing for a while with that one. You may indeed be invited to caucus for HRC.

I have said it before and I will say it again: The Democratic Party is not a black people party! It is a white people party that plays on the concerns of blacks and hispanics. With all the blacks in the Democratic Party, not once have white Dems rallied around a single black figure for presidency. And what Kerry said of Obama - even though I doubt Obama has a chance in hell of winning - proves my point that white America, whether Republican or Democrat, will never vote for a black person to be president of the US. As for Kerrey's choice: Hillary, she is evil! Pure evil! 6 - 6 - 6!

KERREY.. THIS IS THE SAME GUY WHO VOTED FOR THE WAR BEFORE HE VOTED AGAINST IT AND LOST THE LELCTION OF 2004 TO ONE OF THE WORST PRESIDENT'S(G.W.BUSH IN 2004 ….GO FIGURE

this is one of hilly-billys play boys someone ask him what was he promised to do their dirty work. while they stay in the bcakground organizing all this stuff. Nothing, absolutly nothing is happening in that campain that isn't produced and orchestrated by the clintons only this way they don't have to apologize. They have lived their entire adult lives in the deepest, blackest hole of politics, I'm not saying they are there alone but they are leading the band.

Why does he need to apologize??? That was not a negative comment.

Why do Clinton's astute intellectual supporters continue to have to apologize? Could it be because they know they were wrong? Mrs. Clinton, please stop the negative campaign tactics. If you can't rein in your followers, how will you be able to lead our country? You are hurting yourself and your country. It makes me sad. I grew up in this country with the belief that I could be anything I wanted to be. I have a proper education and am also a woman but unfortunately you believe that my skin color and ancestoral heritage have everything to do with whether or not I should win this election. So sad that the young people of the United States have to be exposed to such childish tactics. I plead with them to never give up and continue to HOPE for CHANGE!!! Remember that Clinton brings the most divide in terms of Republicans and Democrats. Obama wins big against all Republican!! For whatever a poll is worth these days, no poll has shown otherwise!

I think Barack needs to change his tactics. Clinton is acting like she has already won the nomination, and I think it will be much closer than the polls are indicating. He just cannot seem to sway the mainstream public away from her.

Whats interesting, is that Obama has so much grassroots support. (http://www.spartaninternet.com/2008)

It will be telling to see if the “Internet Election” can actually transcend traditional politics and maybe some people will actually get off their blogs and go vote!

Where is Obama's apology for what Donnie McClurkin said about gays? Or how about what Chris Rock said about Hillary at the Obama fundraiser? Why should the Hillary people have to apologize but Obama's supporters and Obama get a free ride on this?

By "Apologizing" isnt he just bringing the subject up again ? Another Hillary campaign ploy - say someting bad, then restate it when you apologize. Peole arent that stupid Hillary.

obama and his followers and hypocrites;in democracy people have right to say things. And what kerry is saying is valid thing. Why the hell Hillary campaign have to apologize?

Obama and his Hippocrates has to apologize zillion times to Hillary for what they have done and said to Hillary.

Obama Huessein Barack and his followrs =Haters!

Kerry shot a needle–to remind us all Obama has Muslim roots. But if he had the fortitude to do it in the first place–he should have had the fortitude to stick to his guns. Who cares what he has to say anyway??? Thank God he's no longer in the Senate. He represents a prime example of the angled attacks, and "do nothing" status qou mentality in our congress and the White House. He truly believes the American people are too stupid to see through his facade. Another dummy who should retire to the side-lines. I can't wait for John Edwards shake up their raisins in Washington!!!

Good grief! Is Obama ashamed of having been born Muslim? Is he feeling guilty about perhaps having still some Muslim ties? Or what is the problem? He states it himself, so WHY is it such a terrible insult if someone else states it–especially in a complimentary way. Something is wrong here, and I think it is with Obama, and his blind followers, who wouldn't care what he has wrong–but he Does talk pretty.
We need Hillary to get us out of this mess. And for gosh sakes, don't anyone mention the word Muslim–apparently that is completely against the law,or something. Makes you know right there that there is something wrong here, with Obama.

Just wait, all of us will be praying to our office wall every afternoon, and reading fat oprahs book club choices. Go ahead and vote for a muslim with no loyality to our nation.

If anyone think I am voting for Hillary,well, think again. I am voting for anyone who didn't undermine my community. I am a latino and hillary can never get my vote

The Clinton Machine- well greased and moving full steam ahead…

I consider myself a liberal at heart, and a democrat when forced to conform to this warped two-party system that elevates the most ideolgicially extreme and corrupt candidates.

I despise Bush, and think he's probably as "evil" (to use his own, favorite word) as anyone out there-> certainly as arrogant and ignorant.

BUT- I will never vote for Hillary Clinton, in a primary or a general election. TWENTY YEARS of these two self-serving, polarizing families is enough for me. I'm sick of this red state/blue state dichotomy that simplifies all complicated issues into neat soundbite arguments.

Hillary Clinton? Experience? Shame on the democrats for being such dupes. You know who else has spent a lot of time in the White House in an unelected capacity? The electrician and the gardener-> let's run them on a ticket… She has the worst sort of experience possible: jading, media driven, campaigning experience.

And in case you forgot: Bill Clinton did very little as president, except to have the coincidental good fortune of being president during a tech/economic boom. Just because he wasn't the worst president in our nation's brief history (ie. Bush), doesn't mean he was a good leader. He was an egomaniac; more concerned with his popularity, legacy, and sexual fantasies than he was interested in affecting any real change in this broken system.

And Hillary is ten times worse.

Wake up, Democrats- she'll be destroyed in a general election, and righfully so.

There are some who would say Hillary looks like a overweight lesbian in her pantsuits, but either way, I hope nobody would dare cast a vote on the basis of someones sexuality or physical appearance.

I apologize if that offended anyone…

Posted By Horatio; Las Vegas, NV : December 20, 2007 1:06 pm
hahahahahahahaha,
can not help it on that one!

As a republican , and really I dont have a dog in this fight. But I dont find this offensive to Obama. This country is way to sensitive and worries about the wrong thing.

CNN- you posted my comment, then took it down. I fail to see why a question as to Sen. Kerrey's motives for his initial comment and then his florid apology would be any more or less offensive than some of the writings posted on this subject. Again I ask, If Senator Kerrey felt that Senator Obama was uniquely qualified to be president, why is he endorsing another candidate? Why is he deliberating perpetuating the myth that Senator Obama was brought up in the Muslim faith?

Shame on Senator Kerrey - and if this comment gets "moderated", shame on CNN!

These can be used against him when he seeks for presidency in the future, though it makes him Clintons crony. Plus, his record when he was in the Senate doesn't impress anyone, which I'm sure can be used against him. Negatives? Yeah, he has them. But will see how far he will get with. Some are worse than others.Doesn't Hillary know who is saying what?

The Clinton camp (CNN included) is completely disgusting. They repeatedly have backhanded comments about Obama and then utter an "oops, sorry." How desperate Clinton must be…

I hope America is AWAKE enough to her rhetoric and her political ambition. She now completely disgusts me.

For a hope in politics and truth and honesty again! OBAMA 08!!!!

Please know that not all Swiftboatings are equal……
so the question will never be who is immune from Swiftboating as much as what specifics will be used to Swiftboat each

and what are the counter arguments that will be made to deconstruct whatever attacks are used

and who will the public believe

and how will the media feed into all of it.
I personally think these things bounce back when targeted to candidates that resonate with people like Barack!

How sad! And from the guy who endured the "Swift Boat Veterans for Truth" no less.

Or maybe Kerry learned from that incident.

By making this comment he gave traction to the "Obama is a Muslim" e-mails that are making the rounds on the Internet. Many of the older folks I meet believe these e-mails to be true, and nothing can talk them out of it.

A clear slam by Kerry, and clearly orchestrated by the Clinton Campaign.

Sad thing is, it's working. Look, CNN calls this a "story" and it gets play.

Obama will lose the nomination and we'll all have to get use to saying "Governor Huckabee".

They're creepy and they're kooky,
Mysterious and spooky,
They're all together crooked,
The Clintonian Family.

We have beocme to sensitive as a society. His name is "Barack Hussein Obama." For some reason, his campaign wants you to forget about his middle name. I fail to see what Kerrey did wrong. But his supporters whined so much–that Kerrey has no choice. The message here is that nobody should say anything bad about Obama…..

Posted By JT, Somet, Iowa : December 20, 2007 10:53 am

couldn't agree with you more. Also want to point out the media also goes out of thier way to make sure they never print or say his full name. I don't understand what is the big deal unless the media want to hide his middle name purposely. ex/ in most articles they write HILLARY RODHAM CLINTON and BARACK OBAMA. I have not ever come across an article written HILLARY RODHAM CLINTON and BARACK HUSSEIN OBAMA. May be the media doesn't want most of the general public to know his middle name. keep it quiet until the general election so ROVE can have him for appetizers.

You know I can just picture it. I can just see bin laden standing there with an amazed grin on his face. WOW!

We have beocme to sensitive as a society. His name is "Barack Hussein Obama." For some reason, his campaign wants you to forget about his middle name. I fail to see what Kerrey did wrong. But his supporters whined so much–that Kerrey has no choice. The message here is that nobody should say anything bad about Obama…..

Posted By JT, Somet, Iowa : December 20, 2007 10:53 am

Bring it on!

Yeah, Obama's muslim upbringing and drug use when young make him a better president for USA!

NObama 08.

Posted By jd, des moines, iowa : December 20, 2007 1:03 pm

If we are competing on undoing each other instead of focusing what is important for the country, then let me undo you too,

Obama is the best president that we will ever have if he get the nod,read his policies.

Obama 08!

The Obama's campaign refusal to react to Kerry's comments was a move straight out of Sun Tzu, the Art of War. " The victorious strategist only seeks battle after the victory has been won," Now that the victory has been won, Kerry's apology then becomes an endorsement of Obama, as Sun Tzu adds "use the conquered foe to augment one's own strength"

Hopefully people are starting to understand that should Hillary become president, we will see lots of dirty little tricks by Hillary's staff and this outta be a wake up call to anyone thinking about voting for this underhanded non commital person who seems to not have one original idea.

There has been a series of "slips" recently that continue to be made by members of Hillary Clinton's political machine. Does she honestly believe that we are all so stupid that we wouldn't see these "accidents" for what they are? Somehow, her "people" continue to bring up certain "facts" (non-facts) that grab the headlines, and are obviously meant to remind us of the things that she believes we should question about Barack Obama. (Please note that these are obviously non-facts, or issues already covered in his book and in his campaign.) I sincerely hope that these negative "mistakes" on her campaign members’ parts stop NOW. This is the dirtiest type of campaigning, and because of this, there is no way that I would ever vote for another Clinton.
We discovered what the Clintons where all about while they were in the White House. Both of them had very questionable pasts when they first came to Washington, and then they continued their pattern while in the White House. After all is said and done, these two people have tried to control the "spin" put on each problem as they came up during Bill Clinton's campaign, and then they followed by putting their own spin on the problems that kept surfacing while he was our President.
How can it be that so many have forgotten so quickly?
I hope that my fellow citizens are looking at these negative "mistakes" and "slips" as a part of her strategy. And these tactics shouldn’t surprise any of us. After all, she has fallen behind in the polls, and as she has always shown, she is just “pulling out all of the stops”. Mrs. Clinton has a long history of twisting the truth when things are not going her way.
Please don’t believe that her “people” are not totally controlled by Hillary Clinton.

"While we're on Religion, why is it such a problem for Romney to be a Mormon and a huge discussion is made about it, but there is NO MENTION THAT HARRY REID IS A MORMON???
Posted By Lee, Ann Arbor, MI : December 20, 2007 10:44 am"

The answer ought to be obvious, Lee. Harry Reid is a Nevada democrat- he doesn't have to run in Republican primaries in the South or Midwest. Its the evangelical voters in the GOP primaries who are making an issue of Romney's Mormonism. Why should Nevada democratic primary voters act like bigoted fools just because Iowa and South Carolina republican voters do?

Look for Karl Rove wandering around in the background: This is true-blue GOP slimy tactics.

Pretend to ask an innocent question like "Don't Mormans believe that Jesus and Satan are brothers?"
or praise Obama for being a Muslim.

That grabs the headlines: all the fool-aide drinkers read only the headlines then Rush and Fauz News will repeat and repeat "the story" …

There will be a seemingly heart-felt apology - on page 16… and never mentioned unless the person offended is so ungracious as to not accept.

Stealth and slime: misrepresent and lie: The GOP!

Posted By Alice Newman Center Harbor NH : December 20, 2007 9:53 am

Hey Alice, Bob Kerrey is a Democrat and the story never mentioned any Rebublican bringing up this topic. Get back to Earth space cadet and get real!

Barack Hussein Obama is a MUSLIM, he's black, he has NOT shown any leadership. He converted to christianity at the age of 26 when he attended a mass at TUCC. His mentor and pastor is Jeremiah Wright, the same man that went to Libya with Farrakhan had a talk with Khadaffy. Obama supports the cause of the Palestinians against the Jewish state.

Barack Hussein Obama is the DAVID DUKE(White Supremacist Groups) of Black Supremacist Groups.

IF you say anything truthful about Obama, you're called racist, bigot; I guess his supporters don't want you to know the man they want to be the next President is just as bad as DAVID DUKE, grand wizard of the KU KLUX KLAN.

Ih his speech at Apollo Theatre (he was introduced by Chris Rock who adressed Clinton "the white lady")he clearly stated he will create a Federal Commission for the unfair treatment of blacks once he is elected President of this country. I was disgusted when I heard it while others were clapping their hands, I walked out.

His running mate is another bigot and racist by the name of AL SHARPTON.

Go home to Kenya Obama, we don't need the likes of you here!

Hey! don't call me racist or a bigot, I'm more black than Obama, I've no white folks blood running through my veins.

Hilary Clinton will stoop to whatever lows it takes to get into the White House. she and her backers are using an obvious tactic in linking Barrack Obama to negative preceptions, and then coming out to apologise.

I think they will fail miserably. Barrack has shown he is not afraid to confron his past misdeeds or his roots - something that Hilary has being unable to do.

American voters know who's the real deal.

What a sad country we live in when being anything but a Christian (even though Barack is) is construed as a liability.

What happened to the United States?!? Despite what religious leaders are doing to rewrite history, it was never intended to be a nation dependent upon one religion. The founding father fought hard against the religious zealots of their day to ensure that didn't happen.

The problem is the HRC people just don't have a clue how to effectively combat the Obama onslaught!

Nobody at Team Clinton ever conceived that this scenario could occur, Team Clinton is still campaigning like it's 1991. Bill Clinton on Charlie Rose argues for Experience over Freshness?

The Obama Dream Machine subsequence just isn't in their plan-book! This lack of preparedness shows a lack of talent and skill.

It's a whole new ball game now, Obama is a smart guy just for having this insight to overcoming the old Dem machine.

But I still don't trust him either.

Oh, what a tangled mess of politically correct BS. The only insult to Obama or Muslims here is caused by his Kerrey's critics, who seem to be implying that Obama would or should be ashamed of his heritage.

I am still unsure why Kerrey felt he needed to apologize to Barack Obama. As far as I read it, he stated some obvious facts. In fact, these are the same arguments that Mr. Obama and his supporters tout about his candidacy for president. Mr. Obama himself has stated that his spending time in his youth in Indonesia gives him a sense of the world that other candidates lack and that having family in Africa gives him a better sense of how other cultures live. The only difference is that Mr. Kerrey used the M word–muslim. When did we as a society get so sensitive, that the mere mention of the word Muslim causes others to accuse the speaker of some underlying bigotry or insensitivity?

I guess the Obama campaign wants him to look like a victim. Ultimately, I think that will backfire as most reasonable people will read Mr. Kerrey's comments and wonder, he apologized for what?

Posted By vc, fairfax, virginia : December 20, 2007 10:43 am

what i dont get is you my friend,even if what he said is facts, its like obama praising hillary on how she handled her marriage dealing with a cheating husband,(public knowledge but still constitute personal attack)i hope you get the picture.wise up

He's not part of Hillary's camp first off, AND, GO ANYONE BUT OBAMA 08!!

How many votes has he missed. Even in his home State he missed a lot of votes.

Go Hillary 08!!

senator clinton

you have no shame

This philosophy that we can't talk about Obama's family's background is the exact kind of thing the Republicans are going to use in the general election and wipe the floor with Obama. All you Obama supporters are about to hand the White House to the Republicans again. You know Obama can't win the electoral college.

Ohio, Iowa, Florida, Pennsylvania

270towin
Posted By marquis : December 20, 2007 9:57 am

To Marquis:

Where are you getting you information from? The only person that is saying that Obama won't win is you. If think Hillary, Rudy, Mitt, Huckaley (of whatever his name is) will make a better president. Then that who you vote for. But, don't come to forum trying to convince other that you are a physics.

And why can't he win Ohio, Penn, Iowa and Florida?

Kerrey stated -"You are exceptionally qualified by experience and judgment to be President of the United States." I gaurantee every Democrat will state the same thing once Barack wins the nomination. The only reason Obama is not getting such praise right now, is because others are trying to beat him. Sometimes you are not truthful or honest about your competitor until the game is over. Make no mistake about it, once Obama wins, Hillary will support him, and she will defend his experience to be President. That's a fact.

This is just ANOTHER way of bringing Obama's "Muslim" background into the discussion once again. I don't believe for one second that he is actually "sorry" about anything. I think this "apology" is a part of the same pattern of slimeball politics. Nice try bud, we see through your ploys.

There are some who would say Hillary looks like a overweight lesbian in her pantsuits, but either way, I hope nobody would dare cast a vote on the basis of someones sexuality or physical appearance.

I apologize if that offended anyone…

It's Time! Obama 08!

Yeah, Obama's muslim upbringing and drug use when young make him a better president for USA!

NObama 08.

Everything is part of the "Clinton attack machine" …. LOL - keep saying this tired, baseless claim you who believe whatever it is you want to believe. Not only do you take her words out of context regularly but, you now have been taking words of anyone involved in her campaign out of context, too. The misinformation in our world today is sickening.

Are you voting for the wo/man that can do the job the best in your eyes or what faith he has?

Is it just a matter of time until we have a civil war between Mormons, Catholics, Protestants, Muslims, Hindus or whatever religion is out there? Governement and religion should be separate.

How could anyone believe there wasn't more to Kerrey's comments than he said.

This is exactly the kind of tactics that Washington longtime politicians like to use as a soft attack, and this is exactly why we do not need another president who is deeply indoctrinated in the old-time political system like Hillary Clinton.

Weak.

And how was the letter obtained by CNN? I understand it was addressed to Obama. I wonder who is playing politics here! And all of you, let Hillary out of this game.

On a different note, lets face it: Obama has a strong Muslim heritage. If this is good or bad for America, its a different story. But I don't like he pretends it doesn't matter to him. When convenient, he reminds us about him being able to reach out to the world (Indonesia, grandma in a village without water, blah-blah-blah..). Otherwise, he plays the true Christian card that is more appealing to Americans, which to me means insulting his family background. I have no trust in this person.

Why do the Clinton Camp say these things and then apologize?

Can some one help me out here?

Posted By Luke, IOWA, Des Moines : December 20, 2007 10:06 am
***************************************
Luke of Iowa, this pure and simply a smear campaign against Obama with Clintonsque-style. The Clinton camp knows that most of us ignorant Americans won't care about the apology but only the accusation.

As another blogger mentioned, the Clinton campaign has figured the best way to remove Obama from the presidential race is for Hillary to stay above the fray and tout her softer feminine side while her other supporters (including Bill Clinton & Bob Kerrey) use personal attacks and the politics of fear to dissuade the voting public. It is better for a Hillary supporter to be accused of dirty politics and then say 'SORRY' than for Hillary herself to get caught up in it. Hillary did some negative campaigning against Obama between November 17th to December 5th and her poll numbers took an even bigger dip so the Clinton camp came up with this new smear campaign.

Alice Newman, you're kind is an imbicile! Since when did one dem going after another become the GOPs fault?

It's kinda like Al Sharpton being investigated by the IRS, then blaming the white man.

You're weak!

Apology or not, the words are out there. It should behoove the so-called Christians - of all ilks - to watch their mouths. "He that hateth dissembleth with his lips, and layeth up deceit within him; When he speaketh fair, believe him not: for there are seven abominations in his heart. Whose hatred is covered by deceit, his wickedness shall be shewed before the whole congregation. Whoso diggeth a pit shall fall therein: and he that rolleth a stone, it will return upon him. A lying tongue hateth those that are afflicted by it; and a flattering mouth worketh ruin." (Proverb 26:24-28) "Faithful are the wounds of a friend; but the kisses of an enemy are deceitful." (Prov 27:6)

marquis: You make an excellent point: anyone who votes for Obama is handing the presidency to the Repbulicans. America, unfortunaetly, is NOT READY to vote for
1)a black leader
2)a leader with deep Muslim roots
3)A leader that mirrors Bushes history of inexperience in politics and crippling dependancy on the Bible as a play-book for running the country.

Obama is all of the above. use your votes wisely America…vote for anyone but Obama and get the Republicans OUT of the drivers seat!

is it not possible that the fact that Obama has Muslim family members would give him a measure of credibility in the eyes of Muslim leaders. is it so far fetched to think that his background would allow leaders to say he is not trying to destroy Islam and have frank talks that could lead to real "change". if that is possible , isn't that a big deal. This line of argument against the Clinton camp is why i believe Obama cannot and will not win the presidency. This is Presidential Politics, when the Republican train comes "oh they are being mean" is not going to work.

It seems as if Mr. Kerrey was apologizing to Mr. Obama for associating him with the word Muslim. This seems to imply that the word Muslim is some sort of insult. I find that idea in and of itself offensive. Mr. Kerrey did not say anything offensive and the Obama machine in an attempt to portray Mrs. Clinton's campaign in a negative light is basically perpetuating a negative stereotype of all Muslims. Mr. Obama should have told Mr. Kerrey there was nothing to apologize for, but apparently he is too busy playing politics and doing whatever is necessary to get elected.

How come we have not had Obama dirty tricks either from himself or through proxy's towards Hillary of JE. The man is clean and no slime sticks, and thats why all GOP candidates are running over each other hyping a Clinton win coz thats their pet opponent they cant wait to face.

If the true view of Americans is that Sen Obama is the first multi-racial candidate for US President and as such his credibility on American Sovereignty is at question, then America (USA) has no justification to preach freedom anywhere under the sun; consequently should stand at the grave of very fallen soldier fighting for freedom and apologize. It is imperative to know that the world is watching you all. Could be America has another definition for freedom and democracy.

I am shocked at how many stumbles Hillary's campaign has had in this race.

This is just not expected from a seasoned team of experts.

Should make things pretty interesting in the next couple of months.

I am a supporter of democracy not because it is ordained or sacred but because it has produced more personal freedom, personal prosperity, and personal security than its competitors: dictatorship (Saddam's Iraq), monarchy (Saudi Arabia), anarchy (much of Africa), theocracy (Afghanistan before the war, corporatism (evolving), and libertarianism (never tried anywhere).

The biggest problem with democracy is that half of the population has a below average IQ.

Stop apologizing to this man. You said nothing wrong! Why is he all of a sudden Mr. No one insult me Im above everone!! NOBAMA!!

Clinton 08

IT IS SO BLATANTLY OBVIOUS THAT HILLARY'S CAMPAIGN IS USING "APOLOGIES" TO KEEP CERTAIN ISSUES ALIVE AND "IN THE MEDIA." HILLARY CONTINUES TO SELL HER SOUL FOR THE PRESIDENCY.

Although I am a Republican, if it came down to an Obama-Huckabee ticket I would vote Democrat for the first time and choose Obama.

He doesn't share my views, but he appears to be a gentleman and a genuine human being.

Unlike Huckabee who is a liar and a bigot.

Yes, keep reminding the voters of Obama's upbringing and roots!

That should keep Obama and his supporters boiling mad. They wish the voters forget about hussein obama's muslim upbringing.

Why is it such a surprise that a Clinton supporter slung mud at Obama and then apologized later after the damage was done? First it was Clinton campaign staffers reminding the voters about Obama's drug abuse as a young man and when that did not seem to have a big impact in the polls yet another Clinton supporter tried to, however sublimely, tie Obama to the Muslim terrorists. When are the voters in Iowa, New Hampshire and South Carolina going to wise up? If you think this lady will stop at nothing now to destroy her opponent wait until gets to the White House. She will make the Nixon years pale by comparison.

I don't know about the rest of you, but I am getting a little sick and tired of Obama's thin skin.

You're running for President of the Unites States of America - suck it up, man!

Jeesh, already!!

We all need to focus on things that matter to all of us. Health Insurance, security, taxes, homeless, and the "working poor". No one ever talks about them. The people who live from paycheck to paycheck and doesn't get ahead. You only need to talk with some of the people in your own family or co-workers.

As I started to acknowledge Mr. Kerrey's comment, I instantly caught the intent behind, which the critics confirmed at the end of the article. Mr. Kerrey, I would imagine that you can do better than that? Please understand that American voters are clever than you think, and hiding behind nice words to degrade a candidate, and negatively influence voters with outdated concepts, is exactly the kind of monkey politics presidential candidate Barrack Obama wishes to scrub Washington off. It is about time in 2008 that conservatist politicians like you divorce with such divisive and hypocritical maneuverings, and rather approach politics with more transparency and a focus on societal issues that matter at this stage for the betterment of our world. Thank you.

To those of you saying Obama can't win the general election because the GOP will use the same tricks, you don't understand who Obama is. He transcends this BS and from what I've seen during the primary campaign, he will respond swiftly and harshly.

Obama will get the full support of Democrats (unlike Hillary), and he is well liked among independents. That can't necessarily be said for John Kerry. Because of this, it will be hard for the GOP to make their slime stick.

Obama/Edwards or Edwards/Obama '08

I'm for Clinton but these sorts of transparent political attacks are exactly the sort of thing that make people cringe when they support the highly competent but essentially amoral Clinton team. Nothing in politics is beneath these people.

Kerrey's remarks reek of a desperate condition in the Clinton campaign. They see that she's at risk of being the only thing worse than a has-been, and that's a never-was. A result like that will make her resent Billy C. even more than she already does. Bill can't handle that fallout, so the gloves are off. Next thing we'll hear about affairs with white women. These people will stop at nothing.

He's Bob Kerrery and he endorses Clinton; what else could one expect from a camp that is getting competition. And the Clinton posse does not like competition.

KC knows exactly what he was talking about when he was giving us his great explanation. "However, I have decided not to vote for Obama because I know nothing". Yeah, you right.

I think Mr. Kerrey's explination of what happened is kind of shaky. If those comments were made at a different venue, & accompanied with the appology letter to explain what he really meant, & … who am I kidding? If you have to use so much explination to justify what you said, you were wrong for saying it and you know it.

Again this is the Clinton tactic. Make someone else sling the mud, so your hands stay clean. How many time has this happened thus far this campaign from HRC supporters? Once is an accident, maybe twice… three or more times is a pattern of behavior.

Conclusion: The HRC camp will do anything to win. Ethical or otherwise.
-OR-
HRC has no control over her chosen people, or has poor judgment with the people she surrounds herself with.

Either way are these qualities we want in our next President?

I don't even care anymore. After all the racist and xenophobic attacks against Barack Obama by rival "DEMOCRATS" or shall I say "Dixiecrats", if Hillary is the nominee, I'm voting for Huckabee.

What a moron to apologize.

Kerrey should not have apologized. As a black man, I am so sick of how the white elite have annointed Obama as their "boy" and anything someone says about is racist or a personal attack. Enough is enough. Obama is not ready to be President. He knows it, the majority of people with common sense know it. He doesn't want to have an impact on black America, b/c he really doesn't feel he is black. Hillary is one of the best candidates I've seen in a while. I wish people would use their brains.

Pretty words, Senator. It's sad that no one is going to believe you. Tell me, sir. If Senator Obama is, as you describe him "Exceptionally qualified by experience and judgment to be President of the United States" why are you not endorsing him? Why did you deliberately perpetuate the false impression that Sen. Obama was reared in the Muslim faith, knowing full well that a significant (if ignorant) percentage of the electorate believes that all Muslims are intent on "Death to America, the Great Satan"?

Senator Kerry has always struck me as a decent man. It saddens me to think that he is now being used as a politcal catspaw for Sen. Obama's opponents.

Why apologize? Doesn't freedom of speech apply in politics? If that's how Kerrey feels, he should be able to say it. If Obama doesn't like, he should quit the race and go stick his head in the sand.

To: Alice Newman Center Harbor NH

how can you possibly go off ranting and raving about how this is the republicans' fault. you are blinded by your misguided arrogance and pity

That's like saying Dick Cheney can reach out to gays because his daughter is a lesbian. It's horrible logic–there's nothing intellectual about it.

Uh, ummm, Bob why did you apologize for stating facts?

Interesting. When I was growing up my parents taught me to apologize/own up to what I did wrong to a person.

Sen. Kerrey's letter makes no mention of his transgression against Sen. Obama.

Furthermore, once again CNN takes another opportunity to push this Muslim smear. (It's not true people!)

Obvious suckup!

Typical Clinton attack dog. They bite, they run and hide then they come back and lick your hand. Her whole staff in so transparent. She keeps her hands fairly clean but has hundreds of attack dogs to do her dirty work. I would never vote for her under any circumstances.
PS She is not the most qualified (the big lie) and she is not ready to lead by example.

The attacks on Obama come in many disguises, at all angles and levels. Obama undeterred!!!

I have no time disparaging remarks and hopeless people. I will vote for obama no matter what Clinton political machine they use!

i really don't think being of muslim heritage is enough to "appeal" to the 1 billion muslims in the world. he's not a practicing muslim, so really, what do they care? no one can help what family they were born to, or what heritage they have. it was an assonine comment for kerrey to make.

this is a further reminder of how low the Clinton campaign machine will stoop.
This whole process was carefully calculated. Get someone well respected to associate the word Muslim with Obama in Iowa. Make it out to be a compliment but when there is contoversy to follow, apologize but mention the word Muslim and now also Hussien in the apology. This was the goal and it has been achieved but as an admirer of the former president i cant believe that his wife's campain is now using tactics that were used against him when he was running- I have now switched my support totally to Obama.

Sen,Bob Kerrey was an unsuccessful candidate for the Democratic presidential nomination in 1992.

That is enough for me!

The idea that he had to apologize for stating facts is completely ridiculous to me. This confirm my suspicion that Obama is getting a free ride in this election because he is considered 'african american'. While the press demand that Romney explained his religion and Giuliani explain his affair and Huckabee explained his preacher background and Hillary explained her dynasty label as a 'clinton'. why is it warranted that Kerry should apologize for stated facts about Obama. No one should be judged based on their religion or background but while we dissect the other candidates religious affiliations, why are we walking on egg shells when it comes to Obama's possible affiliation as a muslim? The press is in fear of challenging this man because they are afraid to be labelled as a racist. The one candidate, Hillary, who is challenging him is being bombarded with bad press because….geez how dare you speak up against him…especially since you are a woman! the double standards is so transparent and the lack of spine from the press is apparent. I do believe our nation is ready for a black president and I also believe our nation is ready for our president to be a muslim or a mormon…that is one of the greatest ideal we have in america. That is religious freedom. However, I have decided not to vote for Obama because I know nothing and I can gauge nothing from this election on his character nor his policies. This free ride gives me no clue to how he is under pressure and how he is when scrutinized. BTW, I am not blaming Obama for this, it is the press that I point to…..and it is the press that will loose Obama this election.

Who cares

Kerry's spot on point with his analytical (not emotionally bigoted) comment on one of Obama's unique (thanks to a fortune of birth right) assets ideally suited for world politics. Obama's birth right advantage is so big in fact that all the comments about lack of foreign policy "gravitas" and experience are quite hollow when viewed from Kerry's prospective.
Nice job for pointing out one of Barack's hidden qualifications for all of us Bob, it's appreciated…

We have beocme to sensitive as a society. His name is "Barack Hussein Obama." For some reason, his campaign wants you to forget about his middle name. I fail to see what Kerrey did wrong. But his supporters whined so much–that Kerrey has no choice. The message here is that nobody should say anything bad about Obama…..

We are supposed to believe Hillary wasn't the architect of the "slip of the tongue" by Kerrey? Just another planned attack by the Clinton Smear Machine which has used numerous venues to "remind" us of
Obama's family background. Create the smear and then "apologize" saying they're sorry the statement was "misinterpreted." Right out of the Clinton personal destruction playbook.
Do the Clintons have any shame? Obviously no. And for war veteran Kerrey to stoop this low says all you need to know about him.

In the words of the Republican saint Ronald Reagan, "There you go again." The Clintonists are very good at their meat tenderizer technigue of using slight doses of venom to breakdown their victim. Bob Kerrey is a loose cannon and just the kind of fast talking nice guy with a good back slap that has a knife blade in it. They figure this particular stab is worth maybe 100 votes.

Why is he apologizing? Barack HUSSEIN Obama is a muslim. People are crazy if they vote for him as president. I'm a democrat but will vote republican just to keep this man out of office.

Why does he need to apologize? He said exactly what Obama himself has been saying: That the time he spent in Indonesia and the diversity of his background is a plus. That background includes Muslims.

This is getting ridiculous. People have to walk on eggshells with this guy, lest the press twists their intent. Pretty soon we'll have to ask permission to mention name for fear of blaspheming his holiness.

The media continues to take comments out of context to make them sound sinister. When did people have to start apologizing for pointing out a strength or advantage.

The media continues to harp on "Muslim", "Mormon", "Baptist" and Obama/McCain comments about church and faith. Meanwhile, the current criminal admimistration has turned a balanced budget into the worst deficit in history, lied us into a war where thousands of our young men and women have died and been injured, failed to even try to address health care costs, refused to enter into meaningful agreements to save our planet, hides behind executive privelege… you could go on and on, there is more, but suffice it to say we have more important things to worry about than any of the subjects that seem to be reported on constantly.

"I've just been personally attacked again. I don't mind taking hits on my record on issues, but when somebody starts throwing mud at least we can hope it's accurate and not right out of the Republican playbook."

That's what Hillary Clinton said November 16. Since then we've seen her campaign call Obama a muslim numerous times, call him a drug dealer, attack his kindergarten school work, call him inexperience despite the fact that he has more years holding elected office than she does, try to disillusion college-aged voters, and more. All of these attacks were lies…well except Kindergate. That was just dumb. And they are all out of the Republican playbook, just like Clinton said herself.

The right wing Republican Party will seize the MUSLIM issue and stick it to Barack Hussien Obama. Go Hillary 08!

Let just get the smear out there to the voters and then we will apologize later.

—–The Clinton Campaign

How can anyone in their right mind even consider voting for this candidate? We had Bill for eight years. What the heck do we need Hillary for?

KERREY SAID NOTHING WRONG OR INSULTING…WE ARE TRULY A CRAZY WORLD WITH NO FREE SPEECH LEFT…THIS IS WHY OBAMA IS NOT A GOOD CANDIDATE BECAUSE ANYTHING SAID AGAINST HIM OR IN THIS CASE FOR HIM IS POLITICALLY INCORRECT

I wonder how many of these the Clinton campaign can fit in before the nomination….I say 7

While we're on Religion, why is it such a problem for Romney to be a Mormon and a huge discussion is made about it, but there is NO MENTION THAT HARRY REID IS A MORMON???