CNN

Hello, my name is A. Republican.

Democrats: Please continue to support Obama. My friends and I will continue to vote for him in the primaries to ensure he gets the nod from the Dems.

He will be the easiest to beat in the general election... wait til the gloves come off, then they will rip Obama apart. I appreciate your help on the path to electing Republican leadership once again.

Regards.

Lee writes "...borrow from Dick Cheney and paraphase, Obama is no JFK". Mr Cheney may have used the phrase but the put-down was originated by Sen. Lloyd Bentsen, in a 1988 VP debate against Dan Quayle. Mr Quayle answered charges of inexperience by saying that he had about as much experience in Congress as Kennedy had had before becoming President. And then Bentsen sprung his trap. "Senator, I served with Jack Kennedy: I knew Jack Kennedy; Jack Kennedy was a friend of mine. Senator, you're no Jack Kennedy." An unforgettable moment. Someone said it was like a troublesome fly buzzing round an old frog, which sits impassive until the fly gets too close, then zap! goes the tongue, and the fly is gone.

I would love to know how Obama can be considered a unifier, when he would belong to a church that is not about uniting anyone. Your only as good as the company you keep.

"A congregation with a non-negotiable COMMITMENT TO AFRICA."

Where is the commitment to the U.S.?

By the way, just because your a Republician does not mean your a racist. Hence you forget, Lincoln was a Republician. The only color Republicians like is green and we just want to keep the green we make.

what we really need now is someone with a business background who can stop america's economic freefall, not a televangelist playing the role of politician . where is mike bloomberg when we need him?

Remember that experience makes the diference

The Republicans should be scared. Their nomination of Bush gave us 9,000 Americans killed by terrorists,Iraq,no Osama,$100 a barrel oil, gas up 100%,5 record deficits,trade deficits,record foreclosures,a stock market that is up 4% a year,health care up 100%. America is worried about another Republican in the White House

I am really disappointed in people as a whole in reading these comments It sounds like two second graders talking about something, No one has anything to say positive about any one they dont like ,it is all dirt each one of the people running talk about the ones they are running against and some people have the nerve to say this one or that one is throwing dirt when they all are, I dont believe that any one of them can do what they say as president unless they have the help of the congress who ever they might be. What ever happen to be kind and considerate. Some of the ones running have done some good things, dont that count for something.

I watched the Debate last night and was disgusted by Hillary's behavior. She was so busy trying to lash out at her competition, that she made herself look like a complete idiot. She keeps claiming that she has all this experiance...........when?
only experiance I've seen her have was trying to clean up and make excuses for her husbands mistakes while he was supposed to be running our country.
I thought that both Barrak Obama and John Edwards were very forth coming with their views and not offensive at all, even though Hillary acted like a 5 year old.
I don't really think any of the Republicans running for office are suitable canadates.
I don't think it's wise to elect Huckabee, a jesus freak, cause then all the bible bangers and Red necks will go nuts, and racial wars will start up, and more corruption. Mc Cain would love to continue the war until ALL of our sons and daughters ( but not his) are killed over oil and halibutan. Romney seems sneaky like George Bush, And I would be afraid to leave Guliani alone in the same room as my 14 year old daughter. i think the wisest decicion is either Obama as President and Edwards as Vice, or vice versa.
In the mean time can we please IMPEACH Currious George, and Dick the prick??
Shouldn't after all they've done be charged as war criminals, not war heros?

Please peoplef don't pick the highest office in the country on feelings. Feelings will not do anything for this country. Experience is need and a track record. Obama has neither.

Barack Obama will win NH with 37%

Hillary will be probably second but maybe third

Obama 08 lets change washington, lets get the people involved!

Hello, Ron none of those Presidents: Lincoln, Washington,..... were trying or had to fix a country like ours on the 21st century!!! They did not need the experience required now.

Jimmy in Iowa, Sorry to hear about your son. Stop it now before it leads to something else. I do have to say blaming this on Obama is a cop-out! Not one word has been uttered or written to indicate he will legalize marijuana! You asked how you argue with your son because of his "Obama did it" arguement.. FOR ME, the answer it simple, you don't argue, you are the father! Your son was involved in an illegal activity and really needs to understand the consquences, the very least are health issues. I wish you and your family the best!

Obama "lacks a gut level connection" with me. He is becoming more arrogant and Bushian with each rise in his poll numbers. His lackadaisical grin is so reminiscent of the Bush smirk. Bush also floats above it all as he proclaims his "my way or the highway" rule.

Republicans and all Americans need to worry. Some movements are dangerous!

Hmmm.... Let me see if CNN will censure me and decline my post again. LOL

A "cross between JFK and MLK"? Oh, PUHLEEEZE, give me a break!

Far from burying my head in the sand, I'm old enough to remember both of them and to borrow from Dick Cheney and paraphase, Obama is no JFK or MLK!!

My goodness – Martin Luther King had his own dream and wrote his own speeches about it! He had the fire and spirit to be the revolutionary he was in his life. That is why anyone who possibly can do so attempts to tie themselves to his star decades later. The string that would tie Barack Obama to said star would be a fragile one at best.

John F. Kennedy designed the original facade of Camelot, but in the decades since anyone who can read understands that it wasn't what it appeared to our country. We did not have to read about the indiscretions or the backroom deals cut by his father to secure his position as our president. This is not to diminish the greatness that surrounded JFK, it is merely the reality of the situation without the benefit of revisionist history.

The young people in this world today missed out on a powerful era in America's history and grapple to find their own equivalent. That is understandable. Please don't denegrate the legacies of their work for the American people by attaching their name to every flavor of the month before they have even begun to prove whether they are worthy.

I like Obama. I really do. He has a lot of charisma.

Unfortunately, charisma is inadequate. His biggest flaw, for me, is his tendency toward after-the-fact politics. Almost all of what we know about his positions on critical issues comes from him watching as others have made missteps and then griping loudly about it afterwards. He has no substantial record of standing up to anyone when it actually mattered.

Example: when Clinton passed her vote in the Senate to label an Iranian group a terrorist organization, Obama criticized her for it, saying he would have voted against the measure if he had bothered to show up for the vote (he was to busy campaigning in New Hampshire at the time).

Even when I disagree with a candidate on some issues, I'd rather have someone who ACTS than someone who complains about it later.

Jimmy that is about as bogus as you can get...obviously you dont know how to raise your children and the rest of us dont care that you dont...oh by the way jimmy your state already voted so you can sit down and shut us...ignorance isnt allowed on this site ok...

I am a white,republican, christian, upper middle class mother of 5, ( one an adopted daughter from Africa). I am inspired by Obama's speeches, he has charisma that none of the other s (republican or democrat) have, and when Im listening/watching him its like listening/watching MLK. I only wish he were more conservative as far as abortion and economics. I wonder if ther is substance behind the words? If he gets the nomination, I dont think any of the republicans have a chance. He's no john Kerry! Im not sure that its wise to vote based on the feelings you get from listening to him. Im not sure what I'll do on election day......

Jimmy, you can't overdose on marijuana. This is sort of beside the point, but marijuana really is no more harmful than alcohol.

To answer your question, though, tell your son exactly what Obama said about his past: That it was a stupid decision and a mistake. Obama is not for legalizing pot; he's said in fact that the only reason he got where he is today is because he GAVE UP the stuff.

They should be VERY worried.

I caucussed for Barrack Obama in Iowa, just to latter catch my son smoking a jiont. During my reaction and punishment he argued back that it was ok to smoke Pot because Obama did and he is going to be President and will legalize it. So how do I argue with this. The only choice I have is to try to get Obama to explain to my child and the children around the United States that he used his past exsperence as a vote getter. A political stunt that could create a loss of life for some child with an overdose of drugs. America, Barrack made a very large mistake at the expense of our children he DOES NOT NEED TO BE PRESIDENT> THAT WOULD SEND THE WRONG MESSAGE TO OUR YOUTH. I can not take back my vote, but can do every thing I can to get this message out. I have changed my position to John Edwards, until I watched the debate. Now I will Support SENATOR CLINTON FOR PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES> Barrack go lead Kenya. You have as much tie there as you have her

Hey, I hear he gave a speech once... so apparantly that makes him qualified to be president.

Its a republican plot. John Mccain can easily beat Obama and the swift boaters in Texas are just waiting for his nomination.

Obama is a member of the United Church of Christ.... not Trinity!

I'm beginning to think he could beat any Republican out there except maybe John McCain.
Earlier this month I heard about him and wasn't sure if he would be electable but now as I listen to more and more of his speeches I think he is.

They all need to embrace Barack Obama.

Many have commented that this anonymous message hides the truth that Republicans really want Barack Obama to win the Democratic nomination. I'm proud to say that I couldn't agree with the Republicans more. I too, really want and need Mr. Obama to be our next president.

Mr. Obama inspires a wisdom of courage to have the audacity to seek victory in the weather of doubt. Through his words and actions he has manifested a leadership quality that has suaded even those that do not call his membership to cast him in the light of national attention. This quality: Is it not what we need in the halls of legislation and at the tables of negotiation?

Great is the number of Americans that can find within themselves a good they no longer wish to hide. With direction that collective will be a force to be feared by our enemies and will be a regained respect from our friends.

No one man nor one woman can affect this national change. The personal hopes, dreams and desires of the masses are what fuel the movement of growth. My Republican friends do not and should not fear the man, Barack Obama. They fear his leadership will so resoundlingly kindle the death of status quo.

I'm confused now. Maybe Obama would make a better and more useful inspirational minister rather than a vetted leader of complicated nation. It's nice to know that ideology and sermons have their place in our society but it still seems to be a little tricky in separating idealism from the reality of governing.

Everyone who opposes Obama talks about experience. Our current president had no experience relatively speaking and was elected. The key to running the country is to surround yourself with smart people who are well versed in their respective fields. It appears Obama has the appeal to get those individuals interested in serving their country as the money they could make in the private sector is significantly greater.
Once a team is assembled one must have the intellect to analyze information and then make proper decisions based upon the advice given. Bush is a "C" student at best while Obama is an "A" student. History has shown Bush didn't and still doesn't listen to those providing him advice. A good leader will listen to those who have superior knowledge and expertise because that is why they are there in the first place.
If one is naive enough to think one person is smart enough to make all the decisions while in the White House based soley on their own intelligence they can easily be swayed by a generic excuse or spin ," that person has no experience". I suggest one take a look at the choices the candidates have made in their public and private lives and then try to determine the reasons they made them. That will provide some insight on what type of leader they will make. Prior to making up my mind, I plan to do the proper due dilligence. If Obama is the one I will vote for him. I will not cast my vote for a lesser candidate because someone says my choice can't win.

Obama is half white and half black, no matter how he looks. I'd like some demostration on his allegiance to his mother and all the close white relatives he must have. The white side of his family raised him...... his father abandoned him. If he's for all the people, how about giving equal time to all the people , since he's a part of all of us....

Did someone say "experience?" Senator Obama has substantially more experience in the federal government than Abraham Lincoln had. Or George Washington, or Woodrow Wilson, or Teddy Roosevelt, or... I hope you get the point!

What I am finding interesting is that all the smears and innuendos that Republicans (and Democrats) are hurling at Senator Obama are not sticking with the voters. This includes that old, tired, irrelevant saw, "He's inexperienced."

Maybe Obama can even handle and survive the inevitable GOP 2008 Swiftboat-style attacks.

And here is a counterpoint to the article from Newsmax listed above.

Is NewsMax Corrupt?
Using the standards NewsMax itself applies to the New York Times, absolutely.

By Terry Krepel
Posted 9/6/2002

For an organization whose journalistic values hover pretty close to those of its Florida tabloid neighbors, NewsMax sure does get all hot and bothered about the journalistic standards of others.

An Aug. 20 article takes the New York Times to task for allegedly distorting comments by Henry Kissinger to make it appear he is against the apparently imminent war against Iraq. It's actually a compilation of three other articles on the subject: columns by Russ "Mugger" Smith in the New York Press and syndicated columnist Charles Krauthammer and an editorial in the Washington Times. It starts with a quote from Smith that "It's only a slight stretch to state definitively that the New York Times is a corrupt institution" and goes from there in the direction you'd expect.

The Washington Times excerpt touches on its accusing the New York Times of "willful misrepresentation" and "intellectual slovenliness." NewsMax then summarizes: "Noting that the New York Times is the pre-eminent newspaper in America (and probably the world), the Washington Times said that it has 'a singular responsibility to get its stories right.'"

The WashTimes criticism, of course, rings rather hollow in the wake of its own intellectual slovenliness with its willful misrepresentation of the National Education Association's suggested lesson plans for teaching about the events of Sept. 11 (which the Daily Howler and Spinsanity have dissected). Then again, no one's accusing the Washington Times of being the pre-eminent newspaper in America, let alone Washington, so any "responsibility to get its stories right" is apparently not a high priority to folks like Times employees and NewsMax editors. (And, wouldn't you know it, Laura Ingraham parrots the WashTimes line in her Aug. 20 NewsMax commentary.)

The NewsMax article concludes by saying "it's no stretch at all" to call the New York Times corrupt. Which begs the question: If distortion of another's views is all it takes to be a "corrupt institution," what does that make NewsMax?

So corrupt it's the poster boy for a journalistic RICO statute.

Proof? Let's take a quick tour of the ConWebWatch archives:

It distorts reality by running only negative news about its political enemies and avoiding bad news about its political friends.
it spent a lot of time misrepresenting Judicial Watch press releases as NewsMax stories.
NewsMax CEO Christopher Ruddy presented tabloid rumors as fact in stating the Clintons were selling their house in New York. Today, long after the story can be calling nothing but false, it remains on NewsMax, and it has never published a correction or apology. (Even the New York Times issued a clarification of its Kissinger article. When was the last time you saw NewsMax correct anything?)
NewsMax tried to distort reality even more than usual immediately after the Sept. 11 attacks by ham-handedly denouncing anything that could be remotely construed as criticism of President Bush with terms starting with "anti-Americanism" and going all the way to "treason."
NewsMax's use of willful misrepresentation (that phrase is getting a workout here, isn't it?) continues as we speak in its distortion of remarks made by Bill Clinton to plug its latest anti-Clinton book. One recent headline promoting the book on NewsMax's front page declared, "Clinton Blamed America, Christians for 9-11." He, of course, did no such thing; he cited unpleasant events in American history such as slavery and the taking of land from Native Americans as an example of the long history of terror even as he expressed his support to President Bush's antiterror refforts. Even the Wall Street Journal defended Clinton on this, sort of. NewsMax would rather sell books than tell the truth.

NewsMax is so consumed by its biases and distortions that it no longer sees them for they are, if indeed it ever did. An example of this is a Sept. 3 column by Ruddy in which he notes that "A left-wing magazine recently made some snide remarks about NewsMax, noting that we are the heirs to the ideological legacy of Ronald Reagan." (What, Ruddy is suddenly offended by snide remarks?) The commentary to which Ruddy refers appeared in February in the American Prospect, and Ruddy distorts it horribly. That commentary, by Brendan Nyhan, never declared NewsMax "heirs to the ideological legacy of Ronald Reagan"; it cites NewsMax as proof that "the right's cynical exploitation of Ronald Reagan's legacy has always been something of a race to the bottom" and adding that "it's certainly questionable that (Reagan) would endorse NewsMax ... as the key to his legacy."

Then there's the occasional actual legal question involved, as with its recent overenthusiastic promotion of the re-election of New Hampshire Sen. Bob Smith. NewsMax toned it down considerably in recent days (not that ConWebWatch is taking credit...), but the "intellectual slovenliness" it employs in the service of its ideology is apparently too inbred to be stopped.

The lead of a Sept. 1 story gushes that "The latest statewide poll in New Hampshire shows U.S. Sen. Bob Smith in a virtual tie against challenger Congressman John Sununu." That's the last we hear of that poll in the story, the rest of which is dedicated to describing Smith's latest ad campaign. The poll statistics nor the poll's conductor are never mentioned.

Wherever it was conducted, it wasn't in a New Hampshire that exists in this particular universe, if another poll is any indication. This one, conducted in conjunction with New Hampshire's top TV station, puts Sununu a whopping 22 points ahead of Smith.

NewsMax is journalistically corrupt, all right - but in an incompetent, John Gotti Jr. kind of way.

Long time liberal lefty, I think Hillary is too mean and too centrist to inspire the left, but she does a great job at ticking off the right. I think she is a lose/ lose proposition.

If Obama was 100 years old like McCain, then he'd have the same amount of experience.

i dissagree clint has alllllllll of what is needed to run this country

you're probably right Lynn, but it's up to us to not let that become an issue. We are today's society and we can make the changes as long as we don't let issues like that get over the top of our heads. I'm not sure who I'm voting for, but if i do end up with Obama, I will not let that get in my way.

I was very pro Clinton until I learned the history of the Bush's family and regime. Now Bill who I had much respect for has buddied up with Daddy Bush. That makes me uncomfortable. I will be voting for Obama because the Clinton's and Bush's have the same goals. A New world order.

The Republicans are praying that Obama gets the election, they know they can get their southern base and the radical racists out in record numbers to vote, I believe he would make a outstanding president but also believe he can not win in a general election today....John Edwards is the onbly viable option in today's world for the democrats to win the white house.

OBAMA WHO ?????

Why would the republicans make all this talk about Obama if they're really not feeling the pressure from him? All of a sudden, all republicans are talking about "change", and they can't finish a sentence without the word "change" if their lives depended on it. By the way, most of you are right; Hillary is the true candidate they don't want to go against; they truly won't want to go against someone that would cry them to sleep... if she's crying now, imagine when things get tougher down the road.

For you nitwits that believe you dont need experience in governement or foreign policy to run the USA..Here is a stupid question why is it you need experience when applying for a management position in any corporation or need good grades to get into Med school or law school?? ..Hey libs stop trying to lower conditions and standards and stop pandering to blacks as well..He needs experience in governing he has none.I dont trust some grassroots activist, one year in the senate to run the country especially with open borders which your democrat congres failed to do, a surging war that continues.this guy has no clue

There are white people who are racist, that does not mean whites as whole r racist, and Obamas campaign and appearances show just how much the people are willing to change their own views to unite for a common cause. Dr. Wright never once said in what you posted that he hated white people, or that he was racist. He simply stated his concerns and/or beliefs that white people are racist against blacks. Stop seeing what you want to see, but what's actually written. I will admit that his comments about 9-11 were very short-sighted. However, if Obama was completely loyal to this man and if he completely embraced everything this man said, then why wouldnt he let him speak. He knows Dr. Wright's comments would affect the election, yes, but in the way i interpreted it through this article and through Obama's campaign as a whole, he does not embrace the fact that its 'just blacks'." He embraces the church but he has faith in the American people to prove Dr. Wright and the other followers that this country is bigger than that. The views of a handful of white people are not the views of the rest of the country. In saying that, the views of a handful of black people are also not the views of the rest of the country or, more importantly, Mr. Obama.

"This country will NEVER elect a black, muslim president. I am black and a christian and would NEVER vote for him if he is truly muslim. I don't know if that is a rumour or truth."

No, you know that it's a lie, which is why you're trying to help spread it. There is no uncertainty, Obama is a devout Christian.

OBAMA = CHANGE yeh if you like high taxes, decreased military spending, not balancing the budget open borders..Look people he is a liberal no matter what color he is he is , he is still the enemy ..I watched cnn the debates and loved what he said reminded of Bush...

Charlie Gibson: Senator Obama , if you had intelligence to the fact you knew where OSAMA BIn Laden was at and ,that intel claimed he was held up in Pakistan would you ask Musharaff for permission to wage war???

Obama: No i would go right in and kill everything in sight.

Well sounds like a preemptive strike to me and guess what charlie gibson agrees to and avid liberal supporter...The guy( Obama) is an empty suit..he has no clue he is just alot of words and emotions his rel job should go to hollywood and become a singer or something.

P.S. There's two Ls in Hillary. Mah bad.

I suppose I don't really have a horse in this race as I am a Canadian. However, after watching CNN coverage this weekend (including the ABC debate), I can see much of the media is "doing it again". They gave GWB a pass in the 2004 election – they're doing the same with Obama. No tough questions for him at all (although it is difficult to ask questions of someone who never appears other than in a stump speech).

If he becomes the Dem nominee, I hope he's ready to cope with the Republican attack dogs – they will be at him with everything they've got.

The word "experience" (just like "change") is worthless without context. Politicians love to use people's ignorance to their advantage... and they do it well.

That being said, though, we should all take a moment to think of the other side of the coin. Just what have "experienced" people done for us lately? That Rumsfeld guy sure had a lot of "experience." Remember Tom DeLay? Dick Cheney has so much "experience" in his head, there's no more room left to learn about gun safet... nevermind.

Think of some of the more remarkable leaders throughout world history. Only a portion of them had all this political experience that's supposed to be the asset that is more important than any other. Some examples?:

-The first Queen Elizabeth surely didn't have any experience being in charge of what would become the most powerful empire in the world, but had PLENTY of knowhow when it came to dealing with PEOPLE. Obama shares that trait, among his other qualities.

-George Washington knew much about many things, but had he ever run a brand new country with a brand new type of government before?

-Did MLK or Ghandi ever have previous experience leading gigantic peaceful civil rights movements directly against violent opposition?

I'm not trying to say that experience isn't a valuable asset. I'm just pointing out that it should be considered among, and equal to, a dozen other criteria. Like I pointed out earlier, there's plenty of idiots in Washington who have political experience.

Obama has plenty of experience in dealing with many different things, but he just hasn't been a politician at the federal level for as long as she. A weak point if you look at the whole picture.

Hilary is pushing this because Obama simply outshines her in several other catagories.

Hey Dems and Gop: U think that these ones in Iowa and NH just dont like their candidates as in the dem party and why he is gettng the attention..remember one thing 50%%%% dont care to much for Hillary, ok. and , yes he is going to do well in the next 4 primaries but , he has nothing for the repubs the guy is all speech and nothing more than that..

Regarding Obama: the whole "inexperience" complaint is really–for lack of a better word–lame; what it comes down to is our country needs a new leader altogether (our failure in Iraq suffices, though, if time allowed, I'd add quite a few more reasons why it's time for a Democrat to be in the Oval Office), and that Obama doesn't have the most padded resume (or however you want to phrase it) is not enough to legitimately undermine his other accomplishments and good potential presidential-traits. He's got that Andrew Jackson "common man" quality about him and I think he definitely can win over more than just Democrats if he ends up being the nominee. And, to call a spade a spade, our next president is going to be either Hilary or Obama, so everyone really has to put an end to this "America's not ready..." catch-phrase. By this point in the game I think it's fair to say that argument has been rendered null and void.

OBAMA ALERT: Read this fellow republicans i seen this interview on 60 minutes

Barack Obama's Racist Church
If Sen. Obama rejects the Rev. Wright’s warped view of this country, why does he continue to attend his church?

Monday, January 7, 2008 10:16 AM

By: Ronald Kessler Article Font Size

Imagine if Mitt Romney’s church proclaimed on its website that it is “unashamedly white.”

The media would pounce, and Romney’s presidential candidacy would be over. Yet that is exactly what Barack Obama’s church says on its web site — except in reverse.

“We are a congregation which is unashamedly black and unapologetically Christian,” says the Trinity United Church of Christ’s website in Chicago. “We are an African people and remain true to our native land, the mother continent, the cradle of civilization.”

That’s just the beginning. The church has a “non-negotiable commitment to Africa,” according to its website, and its pastor, the Rev. Jeremiah A. Wright, Jr. subscribes to what is called the Black Value System.

While the Black Value System includes such items as commitment to God, education, and self-discipline, it refers to “our racist competitive society” and includes the disavowal of the pursuit of “middle-classness” and a pledge of allegiance to “all black leadership who espouse and embrace the Black Value System.” It defines “middle-classness” as a way for American society to “snare” blacks rather than “killing them off directly” or “placing them in concentration camps,” just as the country structures “an economic environment that induces captive youth to fill the jails and prisons.”

In sermons and interviews, Dr. Wright has equated Zionism with racism and Israel with South Africa under its previous policy of apartheid. On the Sunday after 9/11, Wright said the attacks were a consequence of violent American policies. Four years later, Wright suggested that the attacks were retribution for America’s racism.

“In the 21st century, white America got a wake-up call after 9/11/01,” Wright wrote in a church-affiliated magazine. “White America and the western world came to realize that people of color had not gone away, faded into the woodwork or just ‘disappeared’ as the Great White West kept on its merry way of ignoring black concerns.”

In one of his sermons, Wright said, “Racism is how this country was founded and how this country is still run!...We [in the U.S.] believe in white supremacy and black inferiority and believe it more than we believe in God.”

As for Israel, “The Israelis have illegally occupied Palestinian territories for over 40 years now,” Wright has said. “Divestment has now hit the table again as a strategy to wake the business community and wake up Americans concerning the injustice and the racism under which the Palestinians have lived because of Zionism.”

Obama says he found religion and Jesus Christ through Wright, whom he met in the mid-1980s. He has been attending Wright’s church regularly since 1988.

The church occupies a tan building on West 95th Street near a public housing project and railroad tracks. Since becoming pastor in 1972, Wright has seen the church’s membership grow to more than 8,500. The church is the largest congregation in the United Church of Christ, a predominantly white denomination known for its liberal politics.

In 1991, Obama joined the church and walked down the aisle in a formal commitment of faith. Wright later married Obama and Michelle Robinson and baptized their two daughters.

The title of Obama’s bestseller “The Audacity of Hope” comes from one of Wright’s sermons. Wright is one of the first people Obama thanked after his election to the Senate in 2004.

But Obama’s life does not exactly support Wright’s thesis that blacks in America are oppressed. A Harvard Law School graduate, Obama married a black Princeton graduate who also has a degree from Harvard Law School. Obama is a U.S. senator from Illinois; his wife is a vice president of the University of Chicago Hospitals. With his wife, Obama has been making more than $1 million a year.

On a few points, Obama has sought to distance himself from Wright’s teachings or explain them away. While Wright is his pastor and friend, Obama has said, they do not see eye to eye on everything. In particular, Obama has said he “strongly disagrees with any portrayal of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict that advocates divestment from Israel or expresses anything less than strong support for Israel’s security.”

As for Wright’s repeated comments blaming America for the 9/11 attacks, Obama has said it sounds as if the minister was trying to be “provocative.”

Just before Obama’s nationally televised campaign kickoff rally last Feb. 10, the candidate disinvited Wright from giving the public invocation. Wright explained: “When [Obama’s] enemies find out that in 1984 I went to Tripoli” to visit Col. Muammar el-Qaddafi with Nation of Islam leader Louis Farrakhan, “a lot of his Jewish support will dry up quicker than a snowball in hell.”

According to Wright, Obama then told him, “'You can get kind of rough in the sermons, so what we’ve decided is that it’s best for you not to be out there in public.'” But privately, Obama and his family prayed with Wright just before the presidential announcement.

To his credit, Obama so far has avoided race-specific appeals as part of his candidacy, accounting in part for his widespread appeal.

Obama “has taught the black community you don’t have to act like Jesse Jackson, you don’t have to act like Al Sharpton,” conservative commentator Bill Bennett said on CNN on Jan. 3. “You can talk about the issues. [Obama has] great dignity.”

But if Obama rejects Wright’s warped view of this country, why does he continue to attend his church, raising the question of whether Obama secretly agrees with his friend and mentor? At the least, Obama’s membership in Wright’s church suggests a lack of judgment and an insensitivity to views that are repugnant to the vast majority of white Americans who are not bigots.

That same lack of judgment has shown up in Obama’s gaffes—threatening to invade Pakistan and offering prompt negotiations with anti-American despots. More frightening, Obama voted last August to give Osama bin Laden and other terrorists the same rights as Americans when it comes to intercepting their overseas calls in order to pick up clues needed to stop another attack.

Jen Psaki, a spokesman for Obama’s campaign, has tried to paper over the candidate’s support of the Black Value System by saying that Obama “believes its basic tenets of commitment to God, to community, to self-discipline and self-reliance continue to have applicability not only to the African-American community but to all people.”

But that is not what the Black Value System says. One can only imagine the outrage that would erupt if a white presidential candidate like Romney subscribed to something called the White Value System. Yet while Obama has been referred to in the media tens of thousands of times in the past month, only one story in the Concord Monitor in New Hampshire offhandedly mentioned Obama’s church’s “unashamedly black” slogan.

In contrast, in an exquisite example of the double standard they apply to Democrats versus Republicans, the media love to focus on Romney’s religion, which is not relevant to how he would perform as president. Close to half the media references to Romney refer to the fact that he is a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints. Very few of them mention that he is both a Harvard Law School and Harvard Business School graduate, credentials that are relevant to how he would perform as president.

When Romney’s father ran for president, his religion was not an issue simply because the media rightly recognized that it was not pertinent to his candidacy. Today, as part of their coverage of Romney, the media run denigrating quotes about Mormonism that they would never dare to run about any other religion. At the same time, the media have largely ignored or downplayed the clearly racist slogan of Obama’s church and the anti-American and anti-Israel stances of its pastor.

In two exceptions to the media blackout, Tucker Carlson of MSNBC described Trinity as having a “racially exclusive theology” that “contradicts the basic tenets of Christianity.” Sean Hannity of Fox News confronted Wright on TV and asked how a black value system is any more acceptable than a white value system.

If a white presidential candidate’s church had a similar statement and “you substitute the word black for white, there would be an outrage in this country,” Hannity said. “There would be cries of racism in this country.'”

“If your spiritual advisor makes outrageous statements, it’s incumbent on you as a leader to denounce those statements,” says Brad Blakeman, a former Bush White House aide who heads the conservative Freedom’s Watch. “Silence is an admission that you agree with what your spiritual advisor pronounces.”

If his church membership calls into question Obama’s judgment, the dichotomy in the coverage of his and Romney’s religious affiliations spotlights the media’s double standard and how its skewed reporting influences who will become president.

But media bias or not, if Obama is his party’s nominee, his Republican opponent will rightly be able to make use of Rev. Wright and his radical teachings as effectively as supporters of George H.W. Bush used Willie Horton’s furlough to help Bush win the presidency.

Ronald Kessler is chief Washington correspondent of Newsmax.com. View his previous dispatches and have them sent to you free via e-mail. Go here now.

© 2008 Newsmax. All rights reserved.

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I pity you SRB. Obama will be the Democratic nominee and he will be President of the United States.

Barack Obama is not a Muslim. Go read his website, or any of the other millions of websites that have discussed this right-wing hate radio myth to death. Please, people, get some accurate information!

im so sick of hearing these comments about Obama's church and religious ideas. The fact that he is apart of a church that takes pride and pledges allegiance to its own people does not mean that this man is a racist, nor does it mean that if elected we will see all black advisors, or any other situation you people are portraying. I'm a white Lutheran, but that doesnt mean I hate Catholics. Basically, you people are saying that its good to belong to a church, but not one that takes pride in black values. That line of thought is what has brought this country down. Granted, not necessarily totally blacks vs. whites but being divisive. Republicans vs. Democrats, blacks vs. whites, and now Religions vs. Religions treasuring the values of its own people. You all need to grow up and realize that it does NOT have to be blacks vs. whites anymore. And, with Obamas campaign, it no longer has to be Republicans vs. Democrats, this man is unifying the country and hes not even in office yet. Look at his speeches, his appearances, you see blacks and whites, Republicans and Democrats and even Independents standing together putting differences aside and the past in the rear view mirror. Obama is inspiring, and i believe he has ALREADY made this country better. This is a special time to be an American, cant you just accept it and unify with the rest of the country?

If Obama can do this to Hillary, just image what he can do to the lying Republicans.

BARACK THE VOTE!!

Both parties have spent the better part of 25 years running on whatever dirt they can find on their opponent. It doesn't take a "Liberal" to spend more, or produce a bigger government. Being a "Conservative" doesn't mean you don't care about people. Being a Democrat or Republican is about rewarding your friends. Talking Heads in the media and politics try to add more issues by saying Iowa has to much control and little diversity to be first. I think the past years have proven we have as much to do with picking the winner as any other state. New Hampshire or any other state doesn't follow our lead they choose by what is important to them. The media and politicians need to figure this out. Barack will do well because he is truly out to change the way things are done. I see a lot of insults thrown both ways here. We need to get out of the mode of winning and into the mode of what is good for the country as a whole.

Let the republicans relax...its only One state Victory.
Wait till we knock down NH, SC and Navada, you'll know what the Mo is all about.

So far, they have just a few minor issues as brought up in this article but little did they know that Obama and his campaign are going to dig up every dirt on the republicans,
they will look ugly and embarrassed when we unearth their mess...

Thanks for the report CNN by "annonymous". Was it "annonymous" who reported that Kucinich and Richardson were sending there supporters over to Obama as second choices at the Iowa caucuses or Obama's "pure as driven snow" campaign organizers?

Obama doesn't need to resort to negative campaigning – he's had his wife do it for him from the get-go, so he can smile and play nice. I beleive he did get his nose in it when he "piled on" with Edwards et. al. during some of the debates and for some time after that until Oprah rescued him from the more obvious dirty politics as usual of which he is so innocent.

I'm sure the Republicans would love to see him win the Democratic elections so they can have a field day with him. Hillary is a seasoned and tough nut for them to crack.

As far as Iowans go, who pride themselves as having evolved from their pitchfork days, it seems that they have replaced those pitchforks with television sets, as has much of the rest of this nation, as they sit in front of these tubes mesmerized by poltically corrected images, gleened personalities and lofty rhetoric. What do they know about inner city tensions, ghetto mentalities, the violence and crime, the attitudes? Does Obama promise to unite us on that front as well or just the republicans and democrats.

I'll take Hillary's crummy personality any day. At least it's real. Her run for the office may have historic or gender overtones but her main concern is the state of this nation. She and Bill have worked their butts off as public servants and there is a genuine concern about the mess we're in now. Her bid is to try to correct that mess and it is scary to think what a novice like Obama could do even if he does win against a Republican war monger.

"annonymous" in NYC

I have been so delighted to see Barack Obama in the lead for the Democratic Party. Though I am a registered Independent, I will keep praying for him to be running for his party and winning the nomination. He will be getting my vote for sure and I am so proud to say that. He is truly the candidate for the change this country is desperate to finally attain. Good luck to Senator Obama and his beautiful family.

Obama is well versed, he is a people person, sincere about bringing a positive change in America, and has the voice of the people. America is terrified that we might have a black man leading our great USA! Go Obama GO!!!

This country will NEVER elect a black, muslim president. I am black and a christian and would NEVER vote for him if he is truly muslim. I don't know if that is a rumour or truth.

good points yet when one breaks down any national poll against any of the front running republican candidates Mr. Obama does not even break John Kerry’s numbers with Hispanic voters *(when you look at the cross tabs). The Hispanic vote is something the dems need to take advantage because republican’s xenophobia this election cycle. Mr. Bush won in 04 because he increased his vote totals with Hispanics by 11 points verves his 00 numbers. Also, I don’t see Mr. Obama being able to pick up the rural vote in Ohio or Pennsylvania because of his strong liberal views on the 2nd amendment

I am an independent voter. I am from Chicago and am really excited about Obama, however he simply does not have the experience to lead our nation. If he were to run in 2012 with 4 more years of Senate experience, then I believe that he could sweep the elections and sway independents like myself to his side. He would be a perfect Vice President. Mitt Romney appears too polished and too pro-corporate/big business and will probably lose to Obama or Clinton in the General election. Republicans need to elect someone who can win in the General Elections. I feel that McCain is the only candidate with the experience and honesty that we can trust to lead our country. He is the only Republican that can win in the General Election.

I am a Hillary Fan all the way! How realistic is it for a Top Republican official to "announce" that Obama would be the only person to beat the Republicans in a General Election if it were true? I truly believe irregardless of the Democratic nominee the democrats will win the next Presidential Election. I vote for Hillary but I wouldnt mind Obama. Just dont give us Edwards, UGH!

Let me know when Michael Bloomberg enters the race.

It's going to come down to McCain vs. Obama

Obama will win the popular vote.

McCain will win the electoral vote.

Let's face it people, none of the candidates democrat or republicans are appealing! Who are they kidding. They are all controlled by powerful lobbyists. What chance do we have of really getting what we need. Take your pick. Who is really going to represent the common person? Is personality what we are looking for?

I want to see Romney and Obama in a one on one debate. Obama won't know what hit him.

If John Edwards is so concerned about the middle class and the veterans sleeping under bridges, why does he continue to live in a mansion? Why hasn't he given the vast majority of his fortune, won in court cases, back to the people who need it more? I can understand keeping a couple of million for himself and his family, but why not give back the vast majority?

I would really enjoy hearing his answer to this question.

Clinton may want change from the Bush adminsitration, but I don't believe she wants change in DC. Her "experience" has her so entrenched in the political norm of DC, she is lost to the reality of life for the majority of Americans.

Obama seems to be the most in touch, the newest kid on the block, without the life of luxury to shield him from the reality of American life. Sure, he has no doubt had a windfall over the past few years with his books and new found famed, but I believe strongly that he understands life in middle America, and hasn't forgotten what most American's endure every day.

Obama...for America!

A recent WSJ poll showed that 69% of Caucasian Americans feel that America is ready for an African American president.

What party do you think that 95% of the remaining 31% belong to?
It's not like their vote was ever in play.

Given that, trust me, the Republicans are very worried about running against Obama.

In regards to experience! It's amazing that all those republican and democratic presidential hopefuls with all the so-called experience,NEVER agree!!! One would have to believe that since they have all the experience and Obama has none, then they would all be together on the war, universal health care, and all our domestic problems. Unfortunately, we know that's nowhere near the truth. Let's give him a chance.

You have my vote!!!!
OBAMA 08!

i think Obama is exactly what this country needs...i feel bad for all he will have to endure to get to that goal...I hope he can keep his vision and passion throughout the race,,,,

Don't worry about Obuma. Worry who we will choose as a republican candidate. As long as Hitlery isn't elected on the lib side. Go Mitt!

all the rhetoric is great... but the people are beginning to let their will be known. OBAMA '08!

Lance in Monrovia: America is the greatest nation on earth? Oh PU-LEEZ...look around buddy...limited or non-exsistent health care; poverty, extremely high crime rates/high profile mall-murders, 70% black americans children born to one parent families; rampant ignorance; racial intolerance; terroist attacks; political corruption and disorganization; unlimited arrogance and narcissism....etc...etc... YEA...nice place! HA! I will NEVER visit America. NEVER.

THAHK GOD FOR OBAMA.

Very few people vote tactically (thank goodness). Sometimes they can have the oddest reasons for casting their vote a particular way; but generally, people look at the candidates, talk with their friends, and then vote for the candidate they truly believe in.

The candidate who inspires them, unifies them, and shows that he cares more about them than about himself, is likely to get their support – despite any amount of dirty tricks, racist attacks, and accusations of inexperience from people who spent a lot of time in the corridors of power, without an achievement they could call their own.

Age and experience are good things, but they aren't everything. It often happens in life, that the right person for the job is intelligent and energetic, but also relatively young, inexperienced, and idealistic – such a person is more likely to search for solutions to the problems, rather than simply bleating that 'experience shows' there's NO solution, no chance of change, no hope.

I want CHANGE... I just don't think that Obama is the right man for the job. I don't vote in primaries or general elections based on a candidates charisma, buzz-factor or ability to "wow" crowds.

Stop squabbling over Clinton and Obama and click below to read about REAL change... the John Edwards way.

http://www.johnedwards.com/issues/

Change that is achievable, without fluff and rhetoric- without Oprah and without a cent of PAC money!

People want change but want things to remain the same....want peace but killing everything different.......Think they are Right when they are dead wrong......Want mercy but can't pronounce it when it comes to others........People are only scared when they think of what they have done to others.......why should I be scared I haven't done a thing.......This country isn't ready for change not until it goes through a little more.....it needs more so that eyes can turely awaken and light can truely come in.......If OBAMA did win I mean really became President, I think this country would make it the most disasterous presidency of all time..even it someone had to blow up something or make a deal with the enemies of this nation.....I don't believe this place is ready.......its still too racist to produce anything decent.......People are so ungodly sometimes it make me wonder why I fight to keep it all alive.........maybe it should be gone and done away with so a new day can flourish where todays ideas of race, color, and status is silly, selfish and basically unintelligent.........Alot of us suffer from (MBD) minimal brain dysfunction to believe some of the stories our mothers, fathers, and friends tell us about one another.........its sad when a few can speak for 30 Million nowadays.......This place needs so much more than a President!!!!!!!!!!!!!! It needs divine intervention......Mercy and change is what we need.........we need to show mercy to others and create change from within..........A President that does that will possible be destroyed because people are so evil and bitter in this world..........I Pray for You OBAMA this place is not ready................It forgets how all great nation begin...With murder, lies, deceit, distruction, and hatred......but our greatest lesson will soon be learned...........Oh why we insist on learnin the hard way, but we will learn! Its so much more than what people are caught up on.......the change comes from within.......

Joyce Said : January 7, 2008 10:07 am ET

"Please check out the church that obama belong to when he was a muslim and how it only allows blacks to become members. The information on this church is on the internet. I think it is something that needs to be address."

Will you people PLEASE knock this crap off. HE HAS NEVER BEEN A MUSLIM. His father was a atheist and his mother a Christian. He has always been a Christian.

I am so sick of people talking about Mr. Obama's inexperience. We supposedly have some of the most experienced people in power at the moment. And what of it? Having recently spent two years in a European country that is supposedly one of our allies, I can tell you that the world's opinion of America in general has greatly diminshed due to the irreprehensible behavior of the current administration. I have been volunteering for Obama, and let me say, he may not have all the experience of a Cheney or an Ashcroft, so what? All I can do if he is elected is thank my lucky stars he doesn't.

I think Obama has what it takes to lead this great nation into prosperity.After all, there is a drop of all of us in this great man

I am stunned that so many on here are so willing to believe in these ridiculous media conspiracy theories. If you don't think that Obama's victory and fantastic speech had an impact on both sides, just listen to Tony Blankley who referred to him as a cross between JFK and MLK (TB is as far from being a liberal as you can get). Anyone who discounts his chances is simply burying their head in the sand.

In my humble opinion, I think those most opposed to Obama are those who wish to continue to grind the same axe that has been at the wheel since about 1992. Namely, they are not satisfied yet and want to draw even more blood from their "opponent". The Dems want justice and retribution from the wrongs that were committed against the Clintons, Bush's arrogance, etc. The Republicans want blood after the treatment of Bush, the lies of Clinton, etc. Obama is the main candidate who says that we need to move past this and come together. Sure, 10-20% will remain on the fringe left and right, but the rest can find common ground.

Obama is not perfect, but I think he is exactly the type of man that we need to move us past this ugly period of hyper-partisanship into a period where we can all see ourselves as Americans once again.

THE TIME HAS COME!!! This guy holds much promise for our country. I have never been this excited about a candidate nor have I had so much respect for one. As a past republican, the time has come!!! Go Obama!

lol..."Republicans fear Obama"??? Hardly. THIS here "Republican" supports Mitt Romney as his 1st choice, and Obama as his second choice.

I'd suspect that other than the *usual* religious bigot (anti-Jew/Catholic/Mormon), racial bigot (white supremacist) crusaders on the extreme Right, and the commie/jihadi Ah'smadatDad/Hugo/Castro/Putin loving, Jew/Christian/American/democracy hating extreme Leftistas...MOST people want a SANE person such as Obama/Romney/Thompson!!!

Go Mitt. But if you don't get in, I'll be quite content with Obama in your place ....cheers to all you leftistas.... have great year, eh.

Those that don't trust this article and believe it's the GOP trying to fire up Obama's base because he's more beatable than Hillary in the general: you're thinking about it too much.

I'm an Obama fan, and I believe this anonymous GOP staffer completely. It's clear that Obama is far more electable than Hillary. The Hillary Hate machine is gigantic, and Obama just doesn't have anywhere near that much negative baggage nationwide. He will be our next President, and the GOP has good reason to be scared at this point.

Barack and roll!

To Lance in Monrovia:

Your comments mirror my own. I'm waking up each day feeling refreshed, revived and energized and the main reason is that I'm now beginning to see HOPE where there was NONE in the past 7 1/2 years.

Our nation, once again, has the opportunity to regain its position as the greatest nation on earth...in the real sense of the word!!!

Many of you chide Obama for his inexperience. I chide the rest of you for your ignorance AND "experience". Many Americans will agree that our country is not headed down the right path, and that is because of "experience". Many people never once cared about Obama's short time in Washington before campaigns brought it up, and that is because of ignorance.

We know how people like Hillary Clinton will operate; she is a member of the old guard. I do not want this country's executive to be in control by two families for the better of 20 years. I would rather roll the dice with someone who I know nothing about, because if "experience" got us in this position, I do not want "experience".

I'm so tired of hearing people say things like: "Obama has no chance in the general election against the republicans". That's total hogwash. They also said that he had no chance in defeating Hillary, my how that's changed as of lately. People always doubt visionaries, it comes with the territory. I'm just psyched that I for one can see past the propaganda that comes out of the Clinton camp. I feel bad for those of you who can't, and who still look up to the Clintons, even as she acts immaturely and desperately while attacking Obama. Give it up people, it's time for real change. No more of this Bush -Clinton- Bush- garbage. We've all been duped long enough. OBAMA '08!

Who says Iowa whites are the same as Southern whites??? Don't be foolish.

I continue to wonder why democrats in this forum say Obama has the best chance against the republicans. Just like the left leaning mainstream media wants Huckabee or Mcain to the the republican nominee to give the democrats the best shot, the right wing media wants Obama because there is no chance in hell he wil win against Rudy or Mitt Romney.

Come on guys, be realistic, anyone honestly believe Obama will win any southern/midwestern state?

Once he comes the official candidate, wait for the right wing media to shred him to pieces.

When the country is not doing good, people rally behind people who inspire them with talk and that's why Obama is winning the democratic nomination and people get too emotional with people who can talk inspiringly even if they lack the credentials to back up.

Being a democrat, I was hoping for Hillary/Biden ticket, and now with that seemingly not possible, I would vote for Rudy Guilian if he is the republican nominee.

Woo-who!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Go Obama!!!!!!!!!! We need you so bad!!!

It is time to wake up and smell the coffee. Vote for John Edwards, or risk extending the republican tenure in the white house.

I'm sorry someone from my area is so close minded. A "non-white" person just won the Democratic Primary in Iowa–a state that is what, 92% white? If not now, when? I wouldn't assume that the Republicans have a sure shot at all.

It doesn't matter if a frog goes into the White House, it'll be business as usual if the american people are not involved in issues that affect our everyday lives. On Obama's lack of experience-obviously not much is needed, since the current prez won two elections, oops, I mean one! ( with one being stolen) On Obama not being able to beat a republican-Who is the judge? God is the judge!!!!

Let's keep it straight America
Obama in 08!

Chris wrote:
I went to this website and I couldn't find anything that anyone other than a racist would find objectionable. As a Catholic I find most Protestant faiths a bit perplexing, but I don't find any of the beliefs stated on their website objectionable. Part of my territory (I'm a salesman) includes the southside of Chicago, and if you haven't been, I can tell you that it is overwhelmingly African American. However, all of the business people that I deal with there have been fantastic to deal with and I haven't felt particularly insecure in that environment. It is not surprising to me that this Church, with such strong ties to their community, would want to promote concerns that are unique to their community. Shouldn't Churches be actively dealing with local concerns? So, David, I am wondering what specifically on that website is so concerning to you? Is it strictly doctrinal or is it merely because they used the word Black?

Chris,
Thanks for the response. I too am a practicing catholic but I am not a racist. I have listened to Obama on several occasions and though I disagree with his views I listened to him as a man, not a black man. This is why I found his church message to be the racist player in this. Perhaps you should go back and read their message again.

I believe every community church should address local concerns. No church can sustain in a community without doing so. The problem here is not that the community is mostly black, it's the fact that they promote it to be. If they are truly christians then there message should be for all, not for just black, support of black roots, and the liberation of blacks. Racism would not be an issue today if the races of this country would quite playing the race card. This website is proudly playing theirs for all to see.

Also, Joyce, Sen. Obama is not nor has he ever been a muslim. Stop believing that right wing disinformation B.S. !!

What HRC and many of her supports fail to see is what "change" voters are really looking for. Obama provides hope that it doesn't always have to be politics as usual dominated by back room meetings, lobbyists and special interests. Obama is for open government and bringing power back to the people. Mrs. Clinton can put the word "change" in her slogans all she wants, but she can't offer to change the way things are done because she is a product and proponent of those exact tactics.

The Republicans will be locked and loaded if Obama gets the nomination. They will attack his record in the Senate and his general inexperience. They will more than shatter this so-called aura that has been created.

And please, stop comparing this man to JFK and Reagan - it is sickening!

I'm a Republican, but the one thing I can guarantee is this–if Huckabee wins the nomination I'll be voting outside party lines for Obama!! Huckabee's nomination is the one thing that would cause me to vote for a Democrat.

Some of the comments on this article highlight exactly why we need change in America right now. A non-white person can't become the leader of our country? Get real. I guess racism never really died in some parts of the country,

This article is a joke. The republicans are the least worried, on the contrary, they are the ones bankrolling Obamas campaign.

The republicans know their party is done, and they know Obama just doesn’t stand a chance! The strategy is to tilt the scales in their favor so that they turn around and crush the poor guy. They are so scared of HILLARY!!!!! She is their STRONGEST opponent and the only one that can beat them.

Thankfully, all this obama hype is almost at its end…The nation will speak on SUPER TUESDAY….hence, anyone with half a brain knows, IT WILL NOT BE obama

I have nearly always voted Republican. I will be supporting Barak Obama (short of anything odd) as long as he is still in the race. Here in California, I had to switch parties in order to vote for Obama in the primary. Before now, I have always been in the Republican party and plan to return ASAP.

In the National election, I will vote for Obama if he is there; if not, I will almost certainly vote for the Republican candidate. We'll see whether the Democrats will settle for the Clinton machine the way Republicans settled for the Bush machine in 2000. (I supported McCain in 2000.)

The last time I voted for a Democrat was in the 1990 election for Governor of Massachuetts. I voted for Democrat John Silber over Republican William Weld. (I'm not sure that counts, since most Republicans voted as I did.)

Matthew S
Scotts Valley, California

President Barack Obama. His name ALONE will ease some of the processes of foreign policy; show a more diverse and willing America; an America with the ability to accept change. An "all inclusive" America. His name alone incites a country that desires unification with peoples all over the world.

Inexperience....Please. How many of our past great presidents were inexperienced?

Voice of a CNN reporter:

"President Barack Obama and the FIrst Lady traveled to Iraq today...

President Obama...GET USED TO IT!!!

OBAMA '08!!!

Obama's experience is irrelevant. No President decides anything without advisers–if you can prove Obama's advisers will be inexperienced, you may have a point.

It's especially irrelevant if he picks the right VP candidate, perhaps a Wes Clark who has progressive credentials and significant military experience and is also a Rhodes Scholar and strategist.

I get a kick out of all the posts claiming the Republicans are trying to prop up Obama and hope he's the candidate because they'd fare better and win against him in the general election. Please! As things stand now, the Republicans have a very slim chance against Hillary in the general election. Against Obama, they'd have no chance at all, unless there's some hidden Gary Hart type scandal in Barack's past.

Who among the Republican candidate stiffs would beat either Hillary or Obama? None of their candidates are even remotely close to them in fundraisng; McCain for example, has hardly any money at all in the coffers, and some are saying he might emerge as a front runner. Fred Thompson doesn't seem even remotely interested in the job, Mitt Romney doesn't appeal to evangelicals, and Huckabee, while a nice guy, is not presidential material, nor does he have any backing from top Republican donors.

Obama would garner much of the independent vote along with the soccer moms, whom he tracks very favorably with. He also turned out huge numbers of young voters in Iowa, which is always a challenge for any candidate. And, he of course would receive great support from all Democrats and African Americans in the general election as well. All of these factors would spell doom for any of the Republican candidates.

For all of you saying this whole thing with Obama is some sort of Machiavellian plot by the Republicans that would assure a Republican victory, I call major B.S. That's beyond ridiculous especially when you look at the stiffs on the Republican side vying for the nomination.

Here is the bottom line;

Hillary Clinton is a cash cow to the Republican party. For months they've had nothing else to rally around except her.

Now they are scrambling, because they have no credible attack to use against Obama. Their only defense against him for months was to be mum on him, to say nothing and hope that the lack of public knowledge on Obama would make him go away.

Iowa blew away the issues of experience and electability on Obama's part.

He has proven that he can whether the storm of the Republican right, diffuse the Republican anger at the Clintons and the left in general, and bring respectability and openness back to government.

Obama is the most exciting thing to happen to the political world in the last fifty years, hands down.

His election will be a revolution in itself. He is a once in a lifetime talent and his words, his past actions and his record speaks for itself.

I'm elated by his presence on the political scene. Already he has forever changed the way the election process works.

For once, we're ignoring what the political pundits and big media has told us and we're thinking for ourselves.

The advent of the internet has made this possible. It's allowed us to take a minute by minute look at the race and get detailed information on the candidates in ways that the main stream media would like to control but no longer can.

Barack Obama is the choice of America and every day confirms that more and more.

Thank God for Barack Obama.

I'm proud to be an American today, more proud than I have been in many years.

Lance

I support Barack Obama.

Any one who buys the idea that Obama's nomination is a done deal does himslef a great disservice. I you support Obama, act as though the race is down to the wire and will be decided by a very few votes. If you support another candidate, keep giving your candidate your support and your vote until that candidate officially declares withdrawal. Don't let the press make your deicion for you.

Looking forward to voting for Obama myself, I do not think anyone can seriously think the machine won't destroy Hillary in a long general election campaign.

It's not even an open question in my mind.

He's my choice if Ron Paul doesn't get the Republican nomination...

One of our nation's greatest presidents... Abraham Lincoln... had almost exactly the same level of experience that Barack Obama has when he became president. I think people need to remember that it's not *only* experience... that makes a good leader. How you listen to others, analyze your courses of action, and craft your policies goes a long way. Bush for example... only surrrounds himself with *yes* people – people who will tell him what he wants to hear. He also ceeded true power to Dick Cheney at the start of his presidency – and look where that's taken our nation. When we look at a candidate we need to look at their role relevant to the constitution – Are they likeable? Will they be able to effectively negotiate treaties with world leaders? Are they a quick study? Are they open-minded and willing to rely on experts for opinions... or just their own? All this counts.

Obama/Biden 08

Change, Change, or remain the same (getting Worst).....The world needs to see the words America holds so true and dear to themselves...The message it spreads across the globe....Freedom, Equality, Justice for all those kinds of things.....how can they be real when we have had the same people in office for ever.......it seems a little unfair and one sided I think.....and who's to say inexperience spells disaster I didn't hear any of that when Bush ran for office.......and who knows how many others.......OBAMA "08"...........Don't let fear make your decision for you.......people have been using fear to steer the course of many peoples decisions and they know it.........don't be afraid........Fear only comes from bullies........learn to love and communicate and the fear is gone........We all at the end of the day want the same things......education, jobs, benefits, and the insurance of our future........it is only those with the hidden agendas that are causing so much trouble........keeping so many secrets from the ones they are if you want to think protecting.....I think fresh meat is what this country has needed for years, and until then lets watch and see the same people make the same mistakes, creating the same disasters, and ultimately sending this great nation to its knees until we are forced to make friends who hate us all........OBAMA, OBAMA, OBAMA, "08"..........he could never do worst than a Bush!!!!!!!!

Does anyone actually want to vote for someone who can RUN THE COUNTRY.

You just stick anyone in power because they are 'riding a wave' .

Its all fun and games to go 'yay' I hate Hillary and I hate McCain or Guilani . So yay i got Obama elected. Whoopie.

You also realize he has no MAGIC POWER to do anything the others cant do.

You realize that he is a politician. You all just want to talk about things that DONT MATTER . Election tactics. Speeches. Blah blah.

You fully realize you are sticking this guy in power to make ENORMOUS decisions he isnt qualified to make for our country . He has NO EXPERIENCE to become president of the united states.

In you zeal to hire someone 'not like the others' you are also stuck with him and his forest gump resume ?

Ever think you might need some EXPERIENCE and qualifications to be prez?

If you all HATE Hillary so much, VOTE FOR JOHN EDWARDS. He has the experience to run the country if we can get him elected at LEAST.

He has a chance to beat the republican candidate at least. All the TAP DANCING in the world will NOT get Obama elected.

If the Republicans get their way, Obama will be the dem candidate. STUPID STUPID STUPID .

Scott in Madison, WI speak for yourself. Hilary is the only one that can win this election for the Democrats and hit the ground running. I would hope that most voters are like myself and take at least 3 to 4 hours researching the position and voting records of each candidate. Obama talks a good talk, but this will go down as the biggest set up in American Politics, if Obama was to win the nomination the very next day the Republicans will drop the bomb on him, I have never seen them so excited about a democratic candidate because they know that democratic voters will screw it up everytime and they know that he could possible defeat their only competition, but at the end of the day when those curtains are drawn on election day, will people reallly vote for this man? Mark my words it will go down as the biggest set up in American Politics.

Scott in Madison, WI speak for yourself. Hilary is the only one that can win this election for the Democrats and hit the ground running. I would hope that most voters are like myself and take at least 3 to 4 hours researching the position and voting records of each candidate. Obama talks a good talk, but this will go down as the biggest set up in American Politics, if Obama was to win the nomination the very next day the Republicans will drop the bomb on him, I have never seen them so excited about a democratic candidate because they know that democratic voters will screw it up everytime and they know that he could possible defeat their only competition, but at the end of the day when those curtains are drawn on election day, will people reallly vote for this man? Mark my words it will go down as the biggest set up in American Politics.

John Edwards is a better candidate than Barack Obama.

I think Obama is very likable, but he does not have any experience and to say he is going to bring about change and does not say how he plans to do that.... seems a little like he himself has no idea how to bring change. I am sure he himself will not tell the americans that. And he seems a bit muddled in debates and what will that say to other countries? He has a very good campaign staff targeting You Tube and My Space. Smart move. But young kids still need to worry about foreign affairs. If he wins the democratic ticket and Romney does not....I will vote republican even though I am a democrat. Obama needs a few more years in politics to learn things before he can say he can do things or change things in our country.

If Obama runs against Huckabee he will clean up on the independent and moderate vote, and if he runs against McCain or Romney he'll get a number of evangelical soccer moms.

Sure he won't get the racist redneck republican vote, like those people who seem to think he's a muslim, or who comment on his how his skin color makes him unqualified. But considering that is a very small minority of the republican party, it doesn't really matter.

McCain vs Obama would be interesting. At 71 McCain doesn't qualify as a baby boomer. At 47 and a younger baby boomer, Obama appeals to post baby boomers. Haven't done the homework, but I don't think the US has ever stepped back a generation after two more recent generation presidents (Clinton/Bush YOB '46). While world events may prove to make McCain a very attractive candidate in the next yr., a second full yr of campaigning may age him quite a bit. Voters may start thinking about the fact that he is older by about ten years then the last two presidents. While I honor his service and feel he would be a good president, and does seem much younger then his 71 years, I also think his time was 2000. Thanks to Rove, that didn't happen.

I'm not sure Repubs need to be this worried.

The polls showed Hillary above Obama, but this changes as each primary arrives.
The polls show Dems above Repubs, but this can change with the arrival of the National.
The media reports the electorate is not happy with the Republican candidates. But are they reading the Democratic blogs. These people hate each other. None of this candidates can overcome the divisiveness in their own party.

I have voted Dem for 20 years and am now an independent. I would support all of the Republican candidates (except 1) over Obama.

The guys a blow hard who can't get enough of his own voice. The guy can't compete in the lightweight Democratic debates. I wouldn't watch the National debates with this guy. It would be pitiful no matter how many may Clinton advisors this guy has.

Democrats are worried about Obama too. We need a strong candidate as the Democratic nominee. Listen people. Do we take a chance at an inexperience person to drive the bus just because they think they can? No, the same goes for the job of President. Obama lacks the experience to run the highest office in the country. Hillary is an experience driver. She can drive this country in the right direction.

Hello Dave, Williams,
Get your facts right. Which of the presidents of the USA doesn't have a bad side? And how many of them helped blacks to acquire skills and gave them scholarships to go to school? Are you happy to see them always falling below standards as whites go up the ladder? So if OBAMA thinks he can help them and everyone else who works hard what's your problem?
Did you forget about the fact that Sen. Hillary voted for the WAR in IRAQ? How many innocent americans have died now? I don't think you've your fact right, get your facts right about all the presidential candidates and stop profiling them. The best thing you might do is not to VOTE for OBAMA come November, but leave the rest of AMERICA to listen to what they haven't heard in centuries.
PEACE

Anyone who believes this "republican insider" is ignorant.

Oh yea..Hillary haters, Obama supporters...stop fooling yourselves.

Have you checked out their voting records side by side?

Did you notice that they're EXACTLY THE SAME aside from 4 minor votes?

Yea, I didn't think so.

It's like this:
You have to ask yourself: Why? Why is it that he won in Ohio. Why is it that he suddenly shot up the polls. It's not just African-Americans voting, it's everybody. Apparently everyone has had enough. Period. People are responding to a message of change because it's so obvious that change is needed. Rather than get behind the same old political machine, they've opted for soemthing completely different because they are sick of the same old boosquash.

If you want the Democrats to take the White House back then you must unite behind John Edwards. He is the only one that will beat all Republicans in the general election.

Yeah, everybody wants on board the Obama express now, funny how quickly this is all happening. Well, considering how negative and whiney Hillary Clinton has come off lately, it isn't very surprising. Obama will win New Hampshire by a landslide, and in the not so distant future he will capture the Democratic nomination. This will be followed by a gigantic win over any of the potential republican candidates in the general election, who are all trapped in the 20th century and have no understanding of what real Americans want. Some of you don't want to believe the hype surrounding Barack Obama, (i.e. the comparisons to both JFK and Robert Kennedy etc.), but that doesn't make Obama any less relevant. If you've been following this thing closely over the past few months, and you're not convinced by Obama, you are probably part of the problem, and you have a real fight on your hands. America is tired of the b.s., and we're not going to stand for it anymore. It's simple, we're taking the country back from those who have severely tarnished our image, and disgraced us on an international level. Barack Obama will get to inherit that unenviable task, and he will emerge triumphant. Thank God for Barack Obama.

I wonder if people are starting to realize that if Obama (and Edwards in Iowa) are able to beat the clinton machine so handily at their own game, what will the republicans do to her?!

David wrote:
"I think everyone that is considering voting for Obama in this election should take a look at this link before doing so. This is the website of the church that this man is a member of that he personal announced to the world on the Oprah Winfrey show. I'd be willing to bet you would change your mind after viewing this."

I went to this website and I couldn't find anything that anyone other than a racist would find objectionable. As a Catholic I find most Protestant faiths a bit perplexing, but I don't find any of the beliefs stated on their website objectionable. Part of my territory (I'm a salesman) includes the southside of Chicago, and if you haven't been, I can tell you that it is overwhelmingly African American. However, all of the business people that I deal with there have been fantastic to deal with and I haven't felt particularly insecure in that environment. It is not surprising to me that this Church, with such strong ties to their community, would want to promote concerns that are unique to their community. Shouldn't Churches be actively dealing with local concerns? So, David, I am wondering what specifically on that website is so concerning to you? Is it strictly doctrinal or is it merely because they used the word Black?

All this talk about Obama lacking "experience" doesn't hold water. Two of the most experienced people you could imagine - Dick Cheney and Donald Rumsfeld - led us into the greatest foreign policy debacle in our history. Abraham Lincoln served one term in the House of Representatives before becoming the greatest President in history. It's about character, judgement, and the ability to lead others. Obama has it.

People, wake up, why don't you ask what kind of "change" is Obama talking about? What is it exactly he is promising to do? So far he has only talked about other people's achievements. And as far as him being a great speaker, the man stammers every other word. America needs a real leader and not an air filled buffoon. McCain and Giuliani are the ticket. It goes beyond Republican or Democrat – it the individual that matters and these two have the knowledge and the experience that is now so desperately lacking in the White House.

The balanced budget Republicans started leaving the Republican Party years ago. There are decent and honest Republicans who are appalled with Bush and his cronies. They are leaving the Republican Party.

At first the exodus was a trickle. Then the cascade became a torrent. Now the levee is broken. This is happening all over the country, even in Utah, the reddest state in the Union.

To Joyce and the person that responded to her,
I did not see your blog until I posted mine. I posted the link to his church in my firt blog under David. Joyce is absolutely correct. Obama himself proclaimed this to be his church on national televison.

To everyone saying Obama can't win nomination you must be in denile. The guy already WON Iowa, not to mention he LEADS many other polls.

To everyone saying he can't win the general election you must in denile again because LOOK what he's running against.

-A war hawk (John Mccain)

-A greedy corporate figure (Mitt Romney)

-A washed up actor (Fred Thompson)

-A guy that exploits 9/11 for personal gain (Rudy Giuliani)

-A guy that's using religion to exploit politics and we can forget about seperation of church and state (Mike Huckabee)

-A guy that wants to turn America back to how it was in the 18th century (Ron Paul)

Yeah I think Obama can actually WIN the general election.

Barack Obama 2008!

I am so glad to read that there are others who see the mastermind is at work again. Why can't everyone see this? Fox has long been sinking Hillary; now Obama is their man. Blondie at MSNBC has been touting Obama for weeks and weeks. Pop culture (Oprah) (BET) is hard at work for Obama, thus playing right into their hands. Rove Repubs have convinced the southern rednecks that they cannot be Democrats because of God, gays, and guns, so they will never support a Dem, much less a black Dem. Hillary is a smart woman. Unfortunately, many folks are afraid of smart women. We will have a novice on the Dem ticket, with questionable church affiliation. Repubs cannot wait to pounce. Don't you see how quiet the media is being about Obama and church and lack of experience and voting record? Our country is in such a mess that it is just unfathomable to me that so many don't see that we are playing right into the hands of those who have manipulated us for years now.

Just watch the guy at work and read one of his books! Look at his work record of helping Chicago's poor and his real life experience of living overseas. Young people like myself are INSPIRED by this man! The Clintons (yes, plural, as it seemed they often worked as a team) did better than Dubya has done in the White House, but is that really something for which we want to settle? I want someone who will lead us to worldwide respectability and a higher standard of living for ALL Americans, and Obama is the man to do it.

Obama is the real deal.
Obama does not see colors he see humans young and old!
Obama represents everyone and excludes know one.
Obama understands America includes all states. (Giuliani)
Obama knows its a tough road and there will be resistance.(South)
Obama will represent those who will reject him and those who support him.
And most of all Obama is bringing back crediablitiy to those in the electoriate who have deem the political leadership a FARSE.

Republicans like passion and passion is evident in OBAMA and his leadership in the Democratic party

I want EVERYONE to understand something VERY clearly.

You all think running for president of the United States is some kind of popularity contest and the best looking person wins. This is all that is required.

Lets go stick the most naive and inexperienced guy in power. The guy has NEVER run a business, a city, a county, or a state. The guy is a FIRST TERM senator. This is it. Thats all.

Its one thing to LIKE Obama. I sure like the guy. Its another thing to think he is going to 'forest gump' his way to being a great president.

You all think Obama can MAGICALLY come up with a new way of being a politician that nobody ever thought of before, like the others who have been doing this for decades would FAIL .They are all STUPID or something.

Many concede this, and suggest 'well he can learn as he goes' .

None of you have a CLUE of how much TROUBLE this country is. Foreign Policy. War. Economic Depression. China. Global warming. You want to stick some guy in the MOST POWERFULL POSITION on the planet who will virtually have NO IDEA what he is doing when it comes to practical application?

Why? Cause we all decided he was LEAST LIKE THE OTHERS ON THE SURFACE, and he has CNN TO SPIN EVERYTHING HE DOES ?

If you think him bringing out the 'youth vote' is going to get him elected. Think again. The youth vote NEVER EVER determines the general election. Primaries are one thing. Independants are great. He cant keep harping CHANGE CHANGE HOPE HOPE. It doesnt work in the general election.

The republicans are ALREADY picking up on that 'angle' and are going to crush him in the general election .

Obama is the man to watch...and thank goodness. There is so much lackluster performance out there among all the candidates from both sides! It is time this country got someone who can re-charge, and challenge the citizens of this nation to stand up and make America even a better country. I am looking forward to hearing more from Mr Obama.

Hillary should ask Obama how many times he has missed votes in the Senate . He has missed alot of them in the short time he has been there.....But then he criticizes Hillary for her vote...Lets see he doesnt bother to vote but she does and then he criticizes her ....
America can do better....Obama ...stay in the Senate and do your job....Good luck ... Hillary . you have the inrtelligence and the guts to be President...!!!!

I too support Obama for President. I think the old should support him. I think the young, women and men should unite behind this man. To those of you who say he has no record. You are WRONG! This is a man willing to break with his party and come together with those across the aisle.

UNITY! It was OBAMA who supported the Republicans and voted against a 30% cap on credit charges. We need this kind of support for the Corp banking industry. It was OBAMA who voted with the Republicans for Class Action Reform leaving some consumers with no legal recourse. OBAMA has demonstrated his support for the legal system. GO ABAMA! As a woman, I was especially appreciative of his vote for Thomas B. Griffith. Griffith is a court appointee whose philosophy isn't in line with title IX. Griffith thinks the court got part of title IX wrong. OBAMA supports this judge who has problems with equity for women in education. That's who I want for President.

Security? No fence. It was OBAMA who voted no on the increases in the homeland security base for states. Furthermore, It was OBAMA who voted against protecting laws that provide safeguards from unfair trade. This is a man who voted against curtailing waste under the DoD travel system. Now that's concensus. That's a new direction.

OBAMA FOR PRESIDENT..... get this guy out of the Senate, he sucks as a lawmaker. The Presidency is the perfect spot for him. He won't be able to do anymore damage.

OBAMA FOR PRESIDENT.... I can think of several hundred others in Congress who are perfect for the Presidency also.

Come on people let's vote today! Congress can take Presidential office tomorrow!

"We've just had EIGHT years of someone who could talk a good game"

I've heard President Bush accused of many things, but talking good isn't one of them.

How about Laura Bush for President? Not only does she have eight years of Hillary-like executive experience, but hers is more recent.

I am and always have been a middle of the road Republican. I have to say that I do like Obama and would be tempted to vote for him in the general election. Sure we don't share alot of the same ideology but I am getting tired of "business as usual" from both sides. I would never vote for Hillary, I think she would do anything to get elected, including illegal acts. I don't think we need that desperate a person in the White House. None of the Republicans has really inspired me yet...Maybe when Rudy stops laying low he will become inspiring, I don't know. I think Obama does have the ability to steal Republican and Independent votes to win. I think Hillary will have a hard time even getting the entire Democaratic base to turn out and support her. That could be her achilles heel in November.

The level of cynicism in many of these comments, some of which border on outright conspiracy theories, is evidence of why we need someone like Obama now. For example:

"Just like the only reason Obama won in Iowa is all the republicans that switched to the democratic caucuses because they new that Obama winning the nomination is the only way they can keep the White House."

or:

"The republicans know that Obama is cake walk, that's why they are promoting his candidacy."

Seriously? Please stop watching The X-Files.

We need someone who is running for President of the United States, not President of the Democrats to Fight the Evil Republicans. We need fresh blood and ideas to heal the partisan wounds that have divided this nation for the past 7 years; a time when we needed to be the most united (and, judging by the comments above, made us more suspicious of one another). Obama represents that idea, and I think the voters are responding to it enthusiastically. Clinton can only polarize and divide, Obama can unite.

"A new American hero in the making."

That, my friend, is CONFIRMED.

The makeup of this country is really based on who people will be electing as the leader of the nation. If the leader fails, comes short of everyone's expectation, the young, charismatic, intelligent speaker will still convince the people of the nation- that "CHANGE" is in his hands. I did not vote for Bush last time and that made me feel better about my choices. The country as it is, is already in a big mess. If you think what Bush left on the plate is an easy task, think again. We need the experience here as the top of the list. We are dealing with foreign agenda where some people will target a leader's vulnerability. The Clintons may have contributed to the broken system, just like the voters did, voting for Bush. However, knowing what was already damaged and done, I would give Hillary the chance to mend it. She already knows the leeways and byways in the system. People talk about change?
How about the change to have the first Woman president of the United States who can prove herself just as strong. Keeping her promises has been evident based on her accomplishments as a senator. Voting for the right person for the right reasons is very crucial for a country that's hanging on the balance right now. I will have that peace of mind when I cast that ballot for Hillary, whether she wins or loses, but I will sure suffer along with everyone if this country is led by an utterly mistaken leader.

The way Mrs. Clinton flung pots and pans around in the white house as first lady... I'd hate to think that she has her finger on the button for the nuclear arsenal.

Obama will win and any attempt by the Republicans to smear him will turn against them and appear racist and ignorant. Thats while Clinton would be the one they wish to run against, because they can bash her all they want and get away with it.

Obama doesn't have to worry about electability in the south because they wouldn't vote for a Democrat anyway. He does have the ability to unite us and leadership is about choosing the right people to delegate to anyway. You don't have to be an expert on the Middle East, you need to have the discretion to choose advisers who are. I believe that Obama will be able to find those kinds of advisers and bring a REAL meritocracy back to Washington. The best and brightest will flock to this guy because he inspires them. On the flip side, the only Republican who is electable is John McCain. The rest are too divisive, too dim, or just plain dull to capture the election. On the plus side, McCain at least engenders respect from the left, even if they don't agree with him. And one thing this country definitely needs is a leader that everybody can respect. The past 12 years have been abysmal with a libidinous leader that the social conservatives loathed and then a hawkish doubletalker who lacks the intellectual gravitas to inspire anybody but his true believers. I for one am inspired by Obama and he already has my vote and my support.

If what I read was correct, Abraham Lincoln had no experience either. There have been plenty of experienced Presidents in the White House who's experience ended up being their downfall.

Well, there you have it! It's the "race card" all over again for the Republicans according to the last speaker. I wouldn't be surprised. After eight years of Bush in the White House they are going to have to do something pretty wild to capture it back again. Could this be their strategy?

I have switched my potential Feb 5 vote to Obama from Clinton. Although I believe that either person would do a good job, Obama is the most likely to initiate the difficult changes needed to provide some separation between corporations and the government. I also like the fact that he will likely be the most able to bring together a worldwide coalition in a true sense, one that we desperately need in order to combat the many challenges facing us.

In order to win, however, Obama needs to tell us who will be advising him in Washington. Many voters will have reservations about voting for someone with so little experience, and need to be won over.

The GOP should lighten up and take a big Xanax. America is not ready to elect a guy from an Afrocentric Chicago church.

Tim in CT – I am so happy that you are on such an intimate basis with Obama that you can lecture the rest of us on how we should or should not judge him. Unless we have personal experience with the man, we are all judging Obama in much the same way. We are juging Obama by what we are being told by the media, what we see on T.V, what we read in his books. Most of us understand that the way a person portrays himself in a book is seldom an accurate picture, idealized at best, totally fabricated at worst, especially a person with political ambitions. I would venture to guess that you have no more personal experience with Obama than either me or Susan.
As for lecturing Susan on her grammar perhaps you should look at your own first. Here are some examples: “First off Susan, your judging a man…” and “And if your going to judge someone….” In both of these examples, it should have been “you’re” as a shortened version of you are. Nothing irritates me more than pseudo-intellectual blowhards like you correcting someone’s grammar when your own grammar is a mess. Most of us are not here on the blogs to critique the grammar of others but to communicate our political views.

Obama has my vote because I like his style not because of his color. Too bad some people can't get pass his skin tone. Get pass the hate in 08.

cmon folks seriously??? Hillary is extremely polarizing thats why when she tried to pass healthcare reform, she was blocked all the way by the republicans, they dont like her at all! republicans are Americans too, and they want a stable, peaceful prosperous America, thats why they are leaning to obama in record numbers, he is a true force for hope and change, for the record some of our greatest leaders didnt have a lot of foreign experience, but they had good judgement and surrounded themselves with the experts, obama08!

Don't forget Obama is bi-racial which is not to say it is a negative factor .... but on the other hand, his experience doesn't impress me ..... I would just pray that our country gets a leader who is very interested in peace and justice ..... fighting just gets us little except our dead fellow Americans .... and of course, the munitions people could care less .... they/munitions dealers etc should be given the moon .....

Joyce says,

"Please check out the church that obama belong to when he was a muslim and how it only allows blacks to become members. The information on this church is on the internet. I think it is something that needs to be address."

I can find four things immediately wrong with this statement. 1.) Obama has never been a Muslim. 2.) Muslims don't belong to churches, they belong to mosques. 3.) You make the nebulous claim that the information on this "church" is "on the internet." Not only do you not provide a link or any information, but you ignore the fact that there is a ton of shady, unfounded, agenda-laden information floating around on the internet. 4.) Learn how to use the past tense. This message board is a shrine to illiteracy.

I am a registered Republican and if the election were to be held today I would vote Obama.

Oh my God, Joyce, get real and get current. You harken back to the past, which is one of the reasons this country is in the ditch it's in. The Church Sen. Obama CURRENTLY is a member of is the Unity Church of Christ. Get real, quit being scared and get current. GO OBAMA!!

John

I am a republican and would vote for Obama but not for the reasons this article states. I would cast a vote for Obama only if Huckabee is the Republican Nominee.

If the next 4 years is going to be a disaster – let it be under a democratic label.

Republicans fear Hillary for love of the country.

Democrats fear Hillary for love of the party.

If you support Clinton you are afraid Obama is not seasoned enough.

That's OK, democrats can vote for McCain or Romney or Giuliani if they want. No one will stop them.

I'm sticking with Obama. He has presented far more detailed intelligent and specific plans than Hillary Clinton. I know where he stands on the issues. Not so sure about Hillary.

You wouldn't know it from media spin, but go to the Obama campaign site and see for yourself. His plans are more detailed and more reasonable than Clinton's. In fact, it is hard to know where Clinton stands on the issues if you compare her site to Obama's.

Hillary is smoke and mirrors. Obama is for real.

6 months before barak threw his hat in the ring . i stumbled across his pod casts . at 51 yrs old its been a long time since i was so inspired . i had no real idea who barak was or that he was even black . i simply fell in love with his message . clear answer's to very serious concerns .

i WAS a total hillary fan boy . i was . hillary now to me seems to have some deep wounds from the newt wars .some deep issues with bill's loose ways .

she seemed at the last debate to be a bit desperate and detached .

hillary is a fine person . she has done great things for new york state and the country . but its scares to to see the outright hatred she invokes .

i hope either bloomberg or edwards would join barak as VP .
please play all baraks pod casts and or
also on his web site . you will find solid straight answer's on dozens of issues . before you choose at least find out what the man is saying.

lets all go beyond the 2 minute spin and hear in detail what barak stands for .

peace

bruce
lostplay

George,

Dream on man, dream on. Someone with very little substance to any of their proposed policies isn't going to come in and win anything by a large margin. The majority of the American people aren't so whacked out of their minds that they will vote for someone just because they have charisma and promise "change". They are looking for someone who has a plan to fix problems and will follow through on it. Obama is not that man

I've said this well before Iowa:

Republican strategists are TERRIFIED of a competition with Obama.

They would WELCOME a contest with Billary.

Obama will win the election, possibly by a landslide.

A new American hero in the making.

It's Barack O Mania time in the U.S.A.
As Canadian I am following your campaign very closely and find it very interesting except for Clinton, she needs to focus on her values and agenda instead of going after others . She has and will lose respect if she continues to keep up with the silly attacks.
Go Barcak! keep up the good work, and I am confident Barack will instill new respect for the American pepole.

People need to wake up to the fact that Obama is a junior leaguer and will be very dangerous to the Democratic party because the Republicans will devour him in the general election. He has charisma but no smarts!!!!!

"Republicans worried about Obama?"

Maybe, but for the wrong reason. They want Obama to beat on during the General Election. Because they have a whole list of attack ads scripted and ready to go against him. Why do you think that Bush's old buddy Karl Rove has tried to give Obama advice on how to beat Hillary? The GOP machine thinks they can run over his "warm and fuzzy" rhetoric and make real claims that he isn't ready to protect this country against terrorists. It's simple.

Do you hear the GOP yelling at the moment negatively about Obama? Only those that are chomping at the bit to get at him.

Clinton offers the honest truth about what change she can make happen in Washington. Obama has only hopes on what he can do. His reference to JFK's moon landing is a weak attempt to put in Kennedy's light. As its be put in the past, "Senator, you're no Jack Kennedy."

It's time to decide. Are you going to vote for "change" by picking a candidate or vote like it's a "Ms. America Pagent". We need change in Washington.

Clinton is our best hope. For our Families. For our Troops. For our Country.

Wynter
Loudon, NH

Hmmm, maybe they are saying this because they really want Obama to win the nomination. It probably is Rove – the mastermind is at work again!

Just like the only reason Obama won in Iowa is all the republicans that switched to the democratic caucuses because they new that Obama winning the nomination is the only way they can keep the White House.

ANYONE BUT OBAMA IN 08!

Hillary Clinton is so much more qualified than Barack!!! BAR NONE!!!
Who caes about the likeability factor!! We need someone who can get the job done. FINAL ANSWER!!! HILLARY FOR PRESIDENT!!!!!!!

I have been getting these "Robo-calls" far too frequently, the latest being 9:01 last night! It was clear from the tone of the call "Insider Hillary Clinton", that the call was from the Obama campaign and caller ID noted that it was from Virginia. If Obama can't campaign legally, what will he do if he wins the White House?

HOW CAN YOU BE "THE REAL HEAVY WEIGHT CONTENDER" WHEN
YOU HAVE THE HIGHEST NEGATIVES OF ANYONE IN THE RACE?

The Republicans should be worried about Obama – he is the only Democrat that can beat them in November, I have been saying this for almost a year now. There are tons and tons of Republicans and Independents who are crossing over to vote for Obama in the primary and I know a lot who say that they will vote for Obama in the general election.

I think voting for Obama is a disaster!!!!! The guy has no experience and our country is in grave danger of unravelling. I think the younger voters are acting on a 'vibe' they feel from hin which is so ridiculous because they aren't even looking at the issues and what is at stake for them. Obama is too wishy washy on issues and we cannot afford an amateur in the white house. Who cares about the likeability factor, I want someone who can get the job done.

If Ron Paul is not the Republican candidate, I will likely cast my vote for Obama.

The whole question of change is not so much about who can change the income tax code, or our dependence on foreign oil, or the number of children on health care, as Senator Clinton is arguing. All of the Democratic candidates will attempt to solve these problems, and with a Democratic congress, change will come on these issues, no matter which Democrat is president. The essence of change that Senator Obama is talking about is a complete change from the past 20 years, a change away from Bush-Clinton-Bush mutual antipathy. Hillary Clinton is a very competent person, but this country cannot stand another 4 or 8 years of having half the country hate the president. We need someone who can sweep things clean, inspire confidence in the American people and "change" the political atmosphere in this country. In that sense, Senator Obama is the real change agent in this election. Senator Clinton simply has too much "baggage".

obama is the man. I will vote for you

Well I tell ya what Bob I'm not worried about experience...I'm worried about the almighty electorial vote. Again Obama supporters are TALKING TALKING TALKING No word on that electorial college! The Dem in the race will have to win either 2-3 mid western states which dont trend Democrat or they will have to win 1 LARGE southern state. Which Ones?! Jimmy Carter was a great man with vision and hope...Reagan kicked his butt with the southern strategy.

are ALL Obama supporters ANTI-GUN??
because i hope people understand that Barack Obama wants to BAN ALL SEMI-AUTIO HANDGUNS! be careful who you're voting for, PEOPLE!!

Republican operatives are working overtime to fill these blogs with the Obama '08 rhetoric. It's always listed as 'Jane' a 51 year old white, life-long democrat, who is 'truely inspired' by Obama's message of 'hope' and will vote for him.
Or 'John' the lifelong Republican from Texas, who wants 'change', and is inspired to vote for Obama.
It is B.S. and it is the Republican strategy to keep the White House.

I'm afraid of Obama, afraid that he might actually become president. Even with his limited experience in Washington, he must know that it will be practically impossible to affect any real change. Special interests and big business control the Senate and the House, and no one person, no matter how charismatic, can stop them. He'll be a lame duck president from day one, and that's just on the domestic front. Can anyone really picture him going head-to-head with someone like Putin? Get real America. You think we have trouble now? Obama presents feel-good promises with no real plans to back them up. If elected, he'll make Jimmy Carter look like JFK.

I will not be surprised if Obama will eventually emerge victorious in the democratic nomination. He is the most likable of all the nominees because of his charisma and pleasing voice.

Unlike Clinton, Obama speaks from the heart and stands with humility.

It seems to me that popular TV series depicts the way things are presently going... Obama is like the presidential candidate in '24' and Clinton, the VP in 'prisonbreak'.

I WILL NOT VOTE FOR OBAMA!!!!

Why is it you Hillary supporters and/or Republicans insist on using Obama' middle name. You only show your own ignorance when you do that. It wakes it so easy to discount anything else you say because you have already showed us that you are a hateful bigot. I turn off to your comments the minute I see it and don't even bother to read further. Grow up and speak to the issues. Your juvenile remakes are not necessary to make your point. Of course that assumes you have a point other than his name. Probably not!

The GOP should be worried. I'm a Republican and I would vote for Obama if he ran against Guiliani or Huckabee.

Dear DFAL,

What a typical thing to say. Why don't you focus on something positive? Obama will beat ANY Republcan candidate because there are no real candidates.

Republican candidates should have been worried about George Bush, but they weren't. So any mud slinging they do against Obama needs to be directed at GWB and themselves. Are these republican candidates so arrogant to think that Americans have forgotten they failed in their responsibilities. They are not about change because they have not admitted their failures.

everyone always says the GOP would love to face off with Obama but in reality they may not like it. it just depends on the deals this man has made and the country should get wise to this. do we really think we control the election? whatever.

blinky, the difference is, bush is a liar.

Canadians seem to be obviously more interested in the US election than they have ever been over any Canadian elections. I am happy Obama can make such strides even in States with over 90% population of whites. I hope Canadians will watch and learn from the US that every citizen regardless of his colour should be respected and given the opportunity to contribute to the Nations growth. The best a non-white can get in Canada is ceremonial appointments and constitutional discriminatory policies to ensure endless and perpetually white-rule. Canada please learn from big brother.

If I have to hear Obama make one more reference to "Change", I might just vote Republican.

So it abvious that Senator Barack Hussein Obama going to Win the NH primary, there is no question of that. But is all those Republicans who is going to vote for Barack Hussein to get him the win in NH also going to vote for him in the general election as well?

Hilary keeps binging up her past record. Why won't someone, anyone, touch on her real past history?
She has so many ghosts in her closet it is a wonder she can close the door.

We cannot trust or believe this woman and she has proven that time and time again. Why isn't this being brought up?

Has everyone forgotton all the lies she was caught in? How many more that she got away with?

An anonymonous source reports that Obama has sex with goats.

RealityKing:

Whatever you are smoking cannot in any way be good for you!

Obama is absolutely our best option... and will be a Great President..... Republicans should be thankful that someone is willing to clean up their huge messes...

What kind of experience did Abraham Lincoln have? Answer that....

Time for the BS in the White House to stop.

We need to start over with a clean slate.

I'm glad that we finally have somebody we can believe in.

Stop making up excuses people... get with it.

Obama for president!!!

There is a new voice in a America and to many it sounds foriegn. That new voice is the American People. Its not about Barack, its about what he stands for that's winning him this election. Hope, Change, returning the goverment to the American People. Hillary calls this rheotric.

I'm scared to death over all these candidates. I don't think there's ever been a worse crop. Each election sees candidate quality going downhill.

There's obviously something wrong with our selection process. Nothing will change until we correct that selection process.

Obama will win in November because he does represent genuine change. Much of Hillary's vaunted "experience" has been garnered in support of the Republican agenda of GWB. She's about one step behind Joe Leiberman (whose re-election she strongly supported) on the neocon scale.

There are many people who still believe that the US belongs to one class and Obama comes from a different planet.

Obama has a better chance of getting elected than Hillary because of her highly negative experiences. But neither have a chance at beating John McCain Nationally.

McCain/Huckabee '08'

Get use to it...

The mind says Hillary, the heart says Barack.

Blinky,

Bush has been a liar and a cheat his whole life. A petty thug with a lot of power. Bush owes everything to his family name, without it he would work at a gas station in the middle of nowhere suffering from a hangover. Obama has everything because of himself. No big daddy to save him from the troubles he gets into.

...and republicans didn't vote for Bush because he's a uniter, they voted for him because they believed he was a man of God. He is neither.

Don't even dare to compare Obama to Bush.

Just curious, are there any Republicans on this board willing to say which Democratic candidate(s) they're most afraid of? I'd believe that over an unnamed source, but either way I wonder if there's really a consensus.

For my part, I'm a Democrat and I'm most afraid of Huckabee and McCain. I think Huckabee might be the least qualified among the Republicans, but the religious right has shown more than once that they can turn out in huge numbers when they feel their values are being threatened. McCain on the other hand would get lots of support from independents as well as actual conservatives. I think Hillary or Obama could win against any Republican other than these two.

It's desperately important to the Republicans, and the right wing media they control, that Hillary gets the nomination. Even against Hillary, their chances in the general election are less than even. Edwards or Obama would win against any Republican by a landslide.

This is why the press coverage is all about Hillary, even when she places third in the Iowa caucus. This is why the press scratches and digs for any negative they can find concerning Obama or Edwards, but fails to mention that Hillary was a Young Republican and a campaign worker for Barry Goldwater.

Don't be fooled by the right wing press. It's time to take back America, end the American Inquisition and the American Class War. Only Obama, Edwards, and Kucinich would undertake those goals – center-right Hillary would do nothing at all to reverse the damage done by BushCo.

Have another bong hit, George from Minneapolis.

Obama is all talk – reminds me of the college grads who enter the work force claiming they should be the CEO. But…..why should he need to first learn the details of how to get the job done before he makes the big broadbrush decisions? America is the LAND OF OPPORTUNITY!! We don't want or need wisdom or experience – or even a proven track record in anything that resembles governing!!!! WE WANT CHANGE!!!! YEH!!!!! YEH!! YEH!!!

when he fails, i'll just say i voted for one of the other candidates…..

The only thing that scares me about McCain is Joe Lieberman as a possible running mate....

On the other hand, I prouder to be an American today than I have been in a while. Look how far we have come where the "mainstream" establishment candidates are a woman and a Black (Mulatto) man who won in lilly white Iowa, and the "fringe" candidates are UFO believing white men with trophy wives.

We should all be proud of our country for moving this far forward, no matter who wins.

It just goes to show that many Americans are intelligent enough to vote/support based on quality, not gender or race.

The GOP knows they can beat Obama.

WHY is this man being so soft on racism when it has been one of the greatest evils of all time? What a shame lol

Dear CNN,

I haven’t heard CNN comment I what I feel is the core issue people have with Hillary. Which is that she has be calculating her run from back in the days as first lady. Just rumors then but she stayed with "Bill" after a long long history of his infidelities and went right after the NY senator spot.

Just so calculating and obvious – Obama and Edwards appears as much more genuine and refreshing.

Thx,
Rob.

In response to Susan Keller's earlier statement, I would like to correct her on Obama's experience. He served in Illinois State senate from 1996 – 2004 and in the U.S. senate from 2004 – present.

If you have ever looked in the face of a mother who's child had died in Iraq, or a child who is left parentless, or a wife who has now become a single mother because of pointless war and doubt that this country needs a change in course then I would have to question your morals and your lack of compassion. This is the universal reason that the GOP should be afraid. Far too many Americans are jobless, homeless and hopless. Thank God that we finally have a canidate that is a messenger for change. That has proven with his grassroots works he thinks about the least of these in communities that we want to forget. That will not continue to make us the laughing stock of the international community. OBAMA for change. OBAMA for hope. OBAMA for America. (or we will pay some severe consequences)

Anonymous January 7, 2008 11:08 am ET

I agree, I think Obama is a nice guy but what does he really know, you don't want to talk about race but is this what it is about? The first African American in the White House. I think he needs more experience. If Obama is elected as the Democratic nominee, I will also vote Republican and so will my whole family and some of my friends.

And I will never vote for another Republican as long as I live. I made that mistake in 1980 with Reagan, and I will never make that mistake again.

(BTW, Anonymous, your post sounds slightly racist...)

These are facts: Obama in Iowa took 5% points from crossed over Republicans.These will vote democrat in November. I have also seen Republicans who vowed that if their candidates continue to play hardball politics of fear and division they too will cross to vote Obama

From what I heard one of our presidential candidates is close minded on race. I don't know about personal conduct, but does Obama want all Americans to succeed or only blacks? He is only part black right? So is his church racist?

It would help if he were to explain his thoughts on the "Black Value System" and "Black Ethics" he follows at the Trinity United Church of Christ. How different are these from the "Human Ethics" I follow?

The Black Value System written by the Manford Byrd Recognition Committee chaired by Vallmer Jordan in 1981. We believe in the following 12 precepts and covenantal statements. These Black Ethics must be taught and exemplified in homes, churches, nurseries and schools, wherever Blacks are gathered. They must reflect on the following concepts:
1. Commitment to God
2. Commitment to the Black Community
3. Commitment to the Black Family
6. Adherence to the Black Work Ethic
7. Commitment to Self-Discipline and Self-Respect
8. Disavowal of the Pursuit of "Middleclassness"
9. Pledge to make the fruits of all developing and acquired skills available to the Black Community
10. Pledge to Allocate Regularly, a Portion of Personal Resources for Strengthening and Supporting Black Institutions
11. PLEDGE ALLEGIANCE TO ALL BLACK LEADERSHIP WHO ESPOUSE AND EMBRACE THE BLACK VALUE SYSTEM
12. Personal commitment to embracement of the BLACK VALUE SYSTEM.

I gotta tell you, I am a Clinton fan!! but Obama has impressed me alot. He can inspire the masses and maybe that is what we need. Can he beat the GOP spin machine??? My guess no but taking down Hillary in the primaries is pretty impressive that's if he can pull this off.

I'm still for Hillary to take on the GOP. We cannot afford to have another Republican in the oval office, America's empire is the brink of extinction and only a next great president can revive it, and the GOP does not have one in my eyes.

There's something fishy about this. Why a GOP official that consults GOP pres. candidates is telling a Democrat how to win the nomination is suspicious to me.

If anything, they want him to win.

Senator Obama embodies all that is positive about this country. With his superior intellect, empathy and compassion he will make the USA a country to be proud of -he will not be an arrogant , uninformed and misinformed president, but rather a positive and humble unifying force in the US and abroad. He will tackle the tough problems, and he will include anyone willing to participate in shaping a future we can all be proud of. Senator Obama is a most courageous man who has inspired and will continue to inspire many who had, up until now, given up hope...we all need him.....What an inspiration for our children!!!

Senator Obama is fighting ignorance and all that is engenders........amazing grace indeed!!

Hillary has too much baggage, is status quo (running on her husband's experience and backed by status quo money) and would not pull anyone outside her base in the fall (not even from her own democractic party). Other than her base, voters just don't like her (either you like her or hate her, with nothing in between).

Is Obama an alternative? I have no clue, he has presented nothing of substance: Where is the beef?

With other diehard Dems, I hear them hoping for McCain, as a Dem in Rep's clothing. Sad there is no real substantive Dem alternative than McCain.

Hillary is going too far and may end up with no support from anyone, if she continues to play dirty.

I have voted both Republican and Democrat, but usually vote Republican because they more often reflect my views on some key issues (while totally disagreeing on some other key issues). I am pulling for Obama. I will definitely be voting for him when the Democrats can get him through to the nomination. Oh, and how about a bipartisan cabinet too, for once?

These aren't pipe dreams or false hopes, Senator Clinton, this is America.

Republicans are scared to death of Obama. Obama will win against the republican candidate regardless of who it is with the largest margin of victory in recent memory.

When Obama runs in the general election more people will vote than ever before. The turnout will be unbelievable. And most of the people will be coming out to vote for a new America and vote for Obama.

Barack Obama will be the next president of the United States it is inevitable. Savor this time in history.

I guess Bush's time in the white house was not all a waste. Because of the damage that his administration has done to America the American people are going to come out in record numbers to support Obama.

It will be a very long time before another Republican is the president of the United States.

Don January 7, 2008 10:32 am ET

I will not vote for Obama.

And Obama will not vote for you, so you're even.

C'mon, CNN. Tell us your source. Is it one of the usual Republican lickspittle?
Dick Morris, no doubt. The Republicans would much rather run against Obama than Hillary. They've thrown all the dirt they can throw at Hillary and she's beaten them like rented mules. Obama, on the other hand is fresh meat to them. Neither he nor his campaign has experienced the slime that will no doubt come his way if he is the nominee. Why, they'll probably claim that he secretly fathered two black daughters and have their doofus base in a frothy madness to vote against him.
When Republicans give CNN the "we're afraid of Obama" scoop, CNN should consider the source and forget it.

as a GOP, i'm all for a uniter, but wasn't W also a "uniter"? how'd that turn out for us?

First off Susan, your judging a man who you know nothing about except what the media has told you and what you may have heard by the watercooler. Obama has ambition and drive and he truly wants to change the way this country is headed. And if your going to judge someone, maybe use spell-check to correct your horrible grammar.

And Dave, your obviously a racist. If I am wrong then read Sen. Obama's books and your fears of him being racist or having a "Pro-Black" agenda will be extinguished. He has been the victim of racism, but he knows it was the individuals who attacked him that are the problem, not the entire "White"race. He is young and he is black, two things that scare people in this country. Well Kennedy had people saying he couldn't do the job because he was Young, Irish, and Catholic. Other than his untimely demise, I think his candidacy went rather well while it lasted.

Obama has not been tested like Hillary because Obama doesn't continuely put himself before his country..

People will laugh at America when Americans can't spell laugh correctly. If you want people to take you seriously then provide examples and evidence to support your points rather than rhymes.

I agree, I think Obama is a nice guy but what does he really know, you don't want to talk about race but is this what it is about? The first African American in the White House. I think he needs more experience. If Obama is elected as the Democratic nominee, I will also vote Republican and so will my whole family and some of my friends.

Barack Hussein Obama cannot win in the general election. Please wake up! The Republicans are licking their chops at the choice of negative ads to run against him. They are quiet now but just wait.

Please think before you make a terrible mistake. We have a good chance to win in November but not with Obama.

Judy
Keller, TX

Horsehockey.

First, I don't believe this guys a Republican, but if he is, he should be jettisoned from the party. Not because he made the comment, but because he's obviously a RINO who thinks that more moderation (aka socialism) is required to lure in voters.

The Republican party should not try to be more inclusive by becoming socialist-lite, a watered down version of socialism as promoted by Democrats.

A true conservative would never vote for Obama. Period. I believe in controlling the borders, strong national security, limited government, fiscal conservatism, and traditional values. Obama believes in the opposite on nearly every category.

Well said from a Republican strategist speaking with anonymity. Finally, we have some honesty from the other side. People are starting to realize that Obama is for real. Obama is no light weight.

Obama 08'

Oh wait, the language changed! Was that an edit?

As a Democrat who would gladly vote for either Hillary or Obama against any of the potential Repubs, I think these "unnamed advisors" may have a point. Obama doesn't unite the Republican opposition the way I'm afraid Hillary might. Most of the Hillary hatred is ridiculous, based on a caricature, not facts......but that crazy hatred is a fact we need to take into account.

I am afraid that the DEM will lose if Obama is the Democratic nominee. Here is why, for now, everyone is afraid of saying something negative about Obama because of his race. Nobody wants to be called Racist. But come general election, Republican will focus on Obama's Illinois' sentate record.

For instance, Obama voted against requiring medical care for aborted fetuses who survive.

http://www.cbsnews.com/stories/2007/01/17/politics/main2369157.shtml.
http://www.orangepower.com/archive/index.php/t-5400.html (Obama voted NO to Born Alive Infant Protection Act (BAIPA).

Most Americans value human lives and this may hunt Obama in the general election.

#2. Obama is affiliated to a church that preaches "Black Value Systems". One wonders how America's commitment to the black community would change with a member of Trinity's congregation in the White House.

http://www.tucc.org/about.htm

The church's 11th precepts and covenantal states: Pledge allegiance to all Black leadership who espouse and embrace the Black Value System

BTW, the difference between "Black Values" and "White Values" is the difference between centuries of being oppressed and centuries of oppressing. If Sen. Obama is truly involved in this type of church with these racist views, I don't know that he won't bring these into the white house.

Below are the church's 12-precepts and covenantal statements called the "Black Value System."

1. Commitment to God
2. Commitment to the Black Community
3. Commitment to the Black Family
4. Dedication to the Pursuit of Education
5. Dedication to the Pursuit of Excellence
6. Adherence to the Black Work Ethic
7. Commitment to Self-Discipline and Self-Respect
8. Disavowal of the Pursuit of "Middleclassness"
9. Pledge to make the fruits of all developing and acquired skills available to the Black Community
10. Pledge to Allocate Regularly, a Portion of Personal Resources for Strengthening and Supporting Black Institutions
11. Pledge allegiance to all Black leadership who espouse and embrace the Black Value System
12. Personal commitment to embracement of the Black Value System.

I am as a Democrat, also worry about Obama. He seems like a some what nice person. But that does not qualify you to be president. The last thing we need is another president that has no or little understanding of foreign policy. That is the reason we are in the mess we are now. A person can't possibly be qualifies when they start campagioning for president,a after having completed only 1 year of the first term of the first political office they have ever held. Electing another unqualified is scary people, you better think long and hard before you pull that Obama lever. Wouldn't it make more sense to let him bemain a senator and serve on a foreign policy committee, gain some experience and then look at him agin in 4 to 8 years? I am a lifetime Democrat, have never voted Republican, but if Obama is our choice, I will vote Independent or Lord forbid, Republican. I can't vote for someone so naive and inexperienced, and I hope those of you who are considering it will think about who would you like to have as your president if a terrorist obtains a nuclear missle, some junior senator or someone with knowledge?

I THINK OBAMA HAS THAT KENNEDY OR REAGAN TYPE OF STYLE BECAUSE HE TALKS TO PEOPLE WITH COMMON SENSE! HE IS WILLING TO SIT DOWN WITH REPS AS WELL AS INDEPENDENTS TO FIND A WAY TO SOLVE THE PROBLEMS THAT FACE THIS NATION REGARDLESS WHAT PARTY HE BELONGS TO AND I TRULY THINK HE IS A MAN FOR THE PEOPLE OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA!

They should be worried about Obama for a number of reasons. First, now that America knows who he is, CNN and Fox can't continue to confuse his name with Osama Bin Ladin's. Second, unlike with Hillary Clinton, Rush and the Fox news network have not had 19 years of negative spin to build on this during this year's campaigning. Thus, nearly half the country doesn't hate Obama because a two ton drug addict directed them to do so. And finally, Obama is generally without the major complications previous Democrates possessed. There is little Rove-ites can spin negatively (at the moment) and by beating Clinton, who is really pushed the experience issue, his inexperience should not be a major issue.

Im a Democrat from Arkansas, and my wife is a Republican. Both college graduates, and both have carefully looked over all the candidates.

For the first time, we will both vote for the same candidate: Barack Obama!!! Obama is the One!

What's this, a GOP plant pushing for an Obama nomination so their party can cream him in the national elections? Nah. I'm so tired of these dirty tricksters. They will yet again stop at nothing to steal the white house. AGAIN.

Oh stop, name the source., CNN, we do not trust you, Republicans are not
fearful, if the lefty newspapers, are honest and allow the truth about Obama
to be told. Believe me we are not worried!

I know it's inevitable that the Hillary supporters will come out of the woodwork to deride Republican dirty tricks – an attempt to get this man elected because they think they can beat him in the general election – but seriously, considering this against John McCain's campaigning that he's "the only candidate who can beat Obama", I think the Republicans really view Obama as a very serious threat.

Obama the great Ebony and Ivory hope

Obama the future, Clinton is past
Democrats beware, dynasties don't last
Clinton claims experience, but laden with baggage
Obama comes fresh with vision and courage
Clinton divisive, Obama inclusive
Clinton a shadow compared to Bill
Obama brings hope and succeed, he will
Clinton a target for Republican ire
Obama a unifying force to aspire
He wins both caucus and many a primary
Bring on Huckabee, Romney, McCain or Giuliani
Come November when electors obligations fulfil
Hail Obama ! US President for peace and goodwill

Just as I have been saying for six months! Obama is a prodigy and he counter punches calmly, intelligently, and with the facts and then returns to his spot on message of Unity. The people believe it because he can sell his ideas effectively
and opposing politicians will not want to be on the wrong side of popular legislation
proposed by Obama's brain trust.

Obama also has the potential to rally a heavy wave of coat tailing in the house and senate this election because the voters want to give him more numbers in the House and senate to insure change.

Barak Obama is a triple treat and he is just right for this election cycle and the
American people are very awake and clear eyed this time , thanks to W.

The more I listen to the Illinois Senator, the more difficult it is to consider this race in terms of solely between Democrats and Republicans. It seems that this race has become a contest for the soul of America. Whether America will continue on as "A house Divided", as it most assuredly would under a reinstated Clinton dynasty. Or, will America begin down the road to truly fulfilling the dreams and aspirations of her founders. It seems more than ironic the possibility that it may be required for us to fully make recompense for the sins of the past, by selecting a leader who is a member of an ethnic group whose subjugation is so strongly tied with our American history. Maybe that is the true lesson of all these things we are now seeing, that our future and our true goals as Americans be made manifest by the repentant heart expressed in the possibilities Obama's candidacy provides.

The WHALES (White Homosexula And Liberal Elites) will all be making lots of put downs of Obama, we know what there motive is.

Bill Clinton flys around the world at speaking engagments and runs America down how bad it is, and only the Clintons can restore our image.

Bill Clinton is the only one flying around wrecking our image.

Hillary is DANGEROUS

That should be the last nail in Hillary's coffin. Guaranteed Republican president in 2008. I've got to hand it to them, they are good. And Democrats fall for it hook, line, and sinker.

"The leading Republican strategist, who requested anonymity because this person advises a number of Republican presidential candidates, told CNN...he is the most electable of any of the Democrats."

But make sure you don't print this because I don't want it to get out that we're scared of Obama because they'll nominate him for sure. Wink, wink.

Barack Obama is the best hope this planet has for survival. I don't say that lightly. I have spent months doing the research, looking at the candidates, and eventually volunteering for Obama. I've gone door to door in Nevada and California. I've talked to many, many Democrats, Independents and Republicans.

I think Obama was best summed up by a Los Angeles Police Dectective I interviewed for a PSA. He said, "I'm a lifelong Reagan Republican, I worked with strategic nuclear weapons in the Air Force, I have devoted my life to the rule of law, and that is why I support Barack Obama. I believe strongly that he will follow the law."

Barack Obama will set the world upright again and put us in a position to all move forward together. Lets end the partisan bickering of the 90s. If we don't all rally behind one leader in Barack Obama, we cannot overcome the myraid problems of the 21st century. The United States of America is the greatest nation on earth, the greatest beacon of freedom ever known to man. Take it out of gridlock and support Barack Obama.

Obama 08.

It don't matter who's running they all are going to lie to the american people to get to the white house, and once they get in you might as well forget it we are on our own, they will not be able to spned our money fast enough.

I'm an independent in NH and Mitt Romney blew away the competition last night at the debate. He definitely convinced me to vote for him.

I was between McCain and Romney, but last night Romney strongly, intelligently and passionately showed (1) Mitt is tough on illegal immigration while McCain still wants amnesty and just calls it a different name, (2) Mitt is an economic genius who will cut the income tax and corporate tax, and eliminate the death tax, while McCain has proven to align himself with the most liberal senators against the Bush tax cuts, (3) Mitt is youthful, energetic and a problem-solver while McCain seems a bit tired and petty, and (4) Mitt is a Washington outsider and an institution-reformer, while McCain is an old Washington guy bouncing around the same, failed policies.

When confronted with how they'd campaign against Obama, Romney would lead an issues-based attack and highlight his great experience compared to Obama's, while McCain seems like he has been very soft on Obama, which is not surprising because McCain is seemingly buddy-buddy with every liberal senator around.

I'm convinced NH saw their man last night- Mitt Romney.

This all sounds good for mid west and North East Voters. But how does O,Bama play in the south? There are still very high levels of predjudice and racism in the south and being African American, would he be the most electable Democratic Candidate down there? Personally, if he were the parties choice, I would vote for him. But I know many people that are afraid that he would be less electable than some of the other candidates.

I love u go and win this

The Repubulicans should be worried if Obama gets the nominee. He's everything that George Bush and the Republican party isn't. Not to mention he is about change something this country needs and wants. It's been long 8 years that this country has been under the the Republican dominance it's time for new leadership.

The Obama folks would love you to believe this. Unfortunately, like most Dems and libs, Obama is an appeaser and even he still does not get the fact that Islamic fascists want to do us harm. The main problem with the Dems and libs is that they STILL don't get it. The truth is the truth and the denial on the left is deafening.

I'm old. I"m tired of people making promises they can't keep. Most of them know they can't keep them but they continually make these empty promises. I'm a democrate and I am beginning to see a bit of cockiness in Mr. Obama's manner. I hope I'm not the only one who sees it because that is what I saw in Bush's manner and look where that got us.

I hope I live to see a truly kinder, more peaceful America.

The republicans are worried that they just don't have a candidate that can move people, they have lost a lot of credibility for their recent failures, in the economy and in the war. they are going to have to re-tool their attacks or they are going to find themselves in a very odd position.

I will not vote for Obama.

Lame McCain is enjoying his 15 of fame, but he has no brain, but has rude smart ass comments.

The Clintons are an embarssment to America, we don't need the world to laught at us anymore.

Hillary and McCain should go back to 1960. They talk like we should all be scared if they are not elected Hillary and McCain don't scare me.

And so now all the Obama supporters will interpret this literally, while all the Clinton supporters will say this guy is purposely using reverse psychology.

Republicans should be very worried, and it isn't just Obama. The trend is that Independants are voting Democratic. Republicans seem to forget Independants make up a large portion of the electorate. Rising gas prices, no jobs security, a recession around the corner. (I believe it is here already) Not to mention the scandals seeping out of the White House on a daily basis spells doom for the Republican Party. Huckabee himself said unless Republicans do something to change their image, their party will be gone in the next generation.

Obama is an underdog bucking up aginst the establishment of Israel-Firsters in the face of Hillary. Good for him that he is winning by not going down to the dirty level of opponents like Hillary Clinton. Dirty tactics have been too long used by the Bush-Clinton types to smear their opponents in order that they can then point and say `¨look, they do the same thing¨. Keep on running your campaign of hope, Barack Obama!!!!

In Senator Obama's book he mentions getting lost on Illinois country roads when expected at a rally for his Senate campaign. There was a small group of us at that farm house that day when he finally arrived, most of us uncommitted but hoping that positive reports about the candidate were true. Only minutes after he began talking a hush fell on the room and I'm sure that most there, were like my wife and me, feeling that we were in the presence of a man of destiny. Sick of all the rancor and hatred spewed by the political machines we felt somehow healed, and were given hope for the future. This is the power of his message: to transcend our petty differences and to make us see more clearly that we are one people able to overcome greed and selfishness for the common good.

Obama's weakness is his innexperience in foreign affairs. To be honnest, Romney, Huckabee and even Giuliani aren't experienced in foreign affairs either. The only Republican who has better credentials here is McCain. But suppose Obama chose Biden as his running mate? That might dampen McCain's lead here too.

I think Mr. Obama is doing good attracting new voters to the Democrats party and he's a good prospect in the future BUT for me, family and friends, he'll need show issues en his job as Senator and others way to be elect as President of the United States. Good speech and ideas isn't enough to confront USA internal and external problems. I am no taking any risk and for sure many americans with mature ideas!

As they should be. Collectively, the GOP is toast.

I agree with this article. Votes have overwhelmingly rejected negative campaigning this year and are looking for something fresh and exciting. Clinton does not offer freshness or excitement and apparently hates hope. How far is she willing to go to crush the hopes and dreams of Americans?

I feel as though her argument is that she is the ONLY candidate who has the experience to lead and the ONLY candidate that can achieve anything. She seems to make the focus of her campaign about her. The only problem is, most Americans don't like her.

JM
Obama 08

They should be worried!
Go, Barack!

God help us all.
If the American Public is not Smart enough to see through the Obama Myth we are truly doomed....

I totally agree, there is something about him....He truely sounds like both Reagan and JFK. I can honestly say come November he is going to be our next President. I have spoken to some friends of mine who are Republicans (Conservative) and once they had hime speak.....They will come to me and say they're really thinking hard about voting for him...

The world right now needs somebody who brings the message of hope!!!!and He is very credible based on his back ground....

He is going to chnage Politcs and bring in people who never cared about politics the way Tiger Woods has changed the way people look at golf.

And by the way, this "anonomous Republican strategist" saying the Republicans
are 'worried about Obama', is nonsense, and part of their overall stategy.

Former President Bill Clinton compared Obama's early position on the Iraq war to President Bush's, and national reporters were summoned to an urgent conference call because some callers on the 'Do Not Call' registry had received robo-calls from Obama's campaign that Clinton's staff alleges did not fully comply with election law.

A total lie and a complete alleged technicality. If that's all she's got (and I believe it is), stick fork in her.

I'm tired of the Clinton's whining, including Bill throwing out the notion that some voters inthe Iowa caucuses were from Illinois. Sorry Bill, but even if that were true, it wouldn't make up the 9 point shellcking she received!

I like Obama's demeanor and rhetoric. However, the truth is not very glamous or wrapped in a smooth, sound-bite package.

The messes created in the past eight years require a seasoned politician. You can spout hope and optimism but that is not going to get us on the right track. We've just had EIGHT years of someone who could talk a good game – and look where we are.

Like her or not, Hillary is the best choice. I cannot see voting for another President-in training.

If Obama gets the final nod, I'll then vote for John McCain. Another veteran who has the insight and experience to turn us around.

I am a Republican and I will be casting my vote for Barak Obama, assuming he receives the nomination.

If the choice is between Obama And McCain. McCain will win.
Americans are mostly to the center.
The Republicans will portray an Obama White House filled with Oprah and P Diddy.(or how about a connection to Louis Farrakan).
I grew up in liberal California, but now reside in the South. You can call it racist or whatever, but Obama will not win in the General election. In 2004,
Georgia (where I live) was the first state to go for Bush.
The Western states, Arizona, New Mexico , Colorado and Nevada lean Republican. It will again come down to Ohio, and Florida. And both those states also lean Republican.
If the Republicans win again, they deserve to, because they will have succeeded at their strategy to divide and conquer the Democrats.

Very good points yet when one breaks down any national poll against any of the front running republican candidates Mr. Obama does not even break John Kerry’s numbers with Hispanic voters *(when you look at the cross tabs). The Hispanic vote is something the dems need to take advantage because republican’s xenophobia this election cycle. Mr. Bush won in 04 because he increased his vote totals with Hispanics by 11 points verves his 00 numbers. Also, I don’t see Mr. Obama being able to pick up the rural vote in Ohio or Pennsylvania because of his strong liberal views on the 2nd amendment

The republicans know that Obama is cake walk, that's why they are promoting his candidacy.

I watched the re-run of the January 05/08 debates on CNN last night and I heard Mr. Obama say that words can inspire, I agree with him and I concede that he is probably the most inspiritational speaker in U.S. politics for a very long time, but words alone are not enough and, as Ms. Clinton says, it is action that counts. We already know that actions speak louder than words.

Based on the debate, Ms, Clinton showed that she is the best prepared regarding the nuclear threat as it relates to Pakistan and U.S. actions in the area. She was the only one to cite the importance of alerting Pakistan of any missiles fired into Pakistan to get bin Laden, should actionable intelligence be available, as the actions could be misunderstood by Pakistan and could precipitate a war with India. Ms. Clinton was the only one to recognize that getting the troops out of Iraq would also necssitate getting about 100,000 other Americans out of Iraq and that she would also want to get Iraqi citizens who aided the U.S. out of Iraq if they would become targets because of their assistance to the U.S. All the candidates however, failed to adress any U.S. responsibility to the Iraqi people who did not invite the U.S. into Iraq to make it a democracy, and who did not sanction a pre-emptive war against insurgents and terrorists who were invited to bring it on in Iraq by President Bush–actions that were not taken to the Congress when the conditional approval for war was given. As Colin Powell said, the U.S broke Iraq and is thefefore the owner of the resulting problems that sprung from U.S. action.

Mr. Obama is skilled but unseasoned in the area of international and foreign policy experience, as all the Republican candidates stated along with Ms. Clinton. You dont expect a high school basketball phenom to take his team to the championship trophy in his first season, nor did Wayne Gretsky take his hockey team to Stanley Cup glory in his first season and even Tiger woods did not climb to the top of the golf world in his first season. So why would anyone expect Mr. Obama to be able to step up to the plate, especially with a nuclear threat because of the Pakistan situation, in his first term of office as President. Unlike sports where there is always next year, with nuclear threats, there is no next year or next 100 years to do anything about a nuclear explosion anywhere in our world.

Did anyone notice that Mr. Obama has expressed a pre-condition for refraining from precipitating regime change in Iran to be part of the discussion with the Iranian leader? This appears a little Bush-like to me. However, it was refreshing to hear him admit at the time of the debate that Pakistan should be consulted about any U.S. military actions on Pakistan territory, which is different from his original statement about taking the troops out of Iraq and deploying them in Pakistan and Afghanistan that was made earlier without any hint of contacting the independent states of Pakistan and Afghanistan before hand.

Republican should be worried. Probably OBAMA lacks the needed experience, which could be dangerous in case he becomes president, not so much regarding
the country's issues, which could be overcome by a good choise of staff, but due to his possible inability to handle his own party's manipulators like Reid, Pelosi and Kennedy.

Republicans have now a difficult choice, The logical candidate would be McCain,
because of his experience, independence and willingness to make changes (where necessary, not only for the change itself sake) or Huckabee, which is, somewhat like Obams, more attractive, but exposed to negative reactions of many voters which do not want a preacher being president., The latter fear a repetition of the Carter phenomena, a great. highly intelligent and successful ex-President,
but a failure as President.

http://politicsnerd.blogspot.com/

As I say in my latest post, I wonder how long the starry-eyed fascination with Obama will last and the attack machine will change gears from HillyBilly to Obama. Sad to see Edwards falling by the wayside but I guess it was destined to happen.

the time to impeach the president and Vice President is long overdue. Unfortunately, the republican members of congress have not yet realized that they are being personally tainted by this administration. until the Republican Party rids itself of it's extremist elements, all republican officeholders are in jeopardy of losing thier jobs!

I think this article says it ALL!

PEACE/LOVE '08

hmmm...are they saying this because they know there is no way Obama will win the general election?

Please check out the church that obama belong to when he was a muslim and how it only allows blacks to become members. The information on this church is on the internet. I think it is something that needs to be address.

I find it amazing that ALL the networks have not picked up on nor to my knowledge even remotely examined this notion by both the Republicans AND Democrats specifically the Clinton camp that Barrack Obama does not have the experience specifically the foreign policy experience to be President. Excuse me but George W. Bush gained the Presidency by a hanging chad and he did not even know the names of the important world leaders. This is a sad, sad argument by Republicans, so quick to criticize Obama for his age and "experience" when their very own has the world in the state it's in. It is also sad that the NETWORKS have completely dropped the ball here. I'd expect it from Fox but not all the rest.

America's government now operates according to two basic principles:

1) Domestically, use fear to divide and conquer.

2) Internationally, it is better to be feared than respected (aka, the Mafia strategy).

Fortunately, the American people do not subscribe to either of those principles and have lost all respect and patience with the Wall Street politicians that do.

Isn't it ironic that the politicians that have ruled by fear are now in fear of the people that they ruled?

Obama! Take one state at a time (until feb. 5), we will win this!

jessica yellin,a clinton sycophant,writes that republicans are afrais of obama hussein barak?!?! yeah right, a black liberal from chicago has mitt,john,and others afraid is projection to the extreme!! yellin is so far off,even other far leftists radical journalists are laughing at this silly assumption.

People claim that he is inexperienced. I don't think that really matters much; some but not that much. He is qualified in terms of the constittution (over 35 and a natural born citizen). JFK was young when he ran for the White House. He shows some drive and ideas (not that others don't) with much enthusaism that some candidates don't have. He has mentioned working with both sides of the isles. This is something that needs to start happening on a more regular basis.

He's so electrifying. He's my man! Go Obama!

Good analysis. Obama is just what America and the world needsright now. He kept his cool even when he was trailing Clinton by more than 20 points in the polls and never went negative. Now that he's leading, he's still humble enough to recognize that his run is really not about him, but the people voting.

If he can manage his campaign liek that, then we really have a great leader running for office.

Noticed how he was the first to go after students, independents and even republicans? Well that tells us a lot about what he means by uniting the country. He's real and I hope NH gives him a chance

There you go Hillary Fans........ She is so polarizing she could unite the fractured and vulnerable Republicans, while an Obama nomination would take some of those GOP votes along with a horde of independents.

My question to you Clinton fans is, why do you want to roll the dice by supporting her for Democratic Nominee and risk losing in the general election.

Also, wouldn't she make a great Senate Majority Leader, since an Obama candidacy at top of ticket will lead to a vast majority for democrats in the Senate and the House as opposed to a Hillary nomination that has swing state moderate democrats worried.

The Republicans are hoping for Obama. Romney said he would love to square off against Hillary during the NH debate .....now this strategist is saying that Obama has mass appeal. They are going to try and talk up Obama and say they are afraid of him. They know that Hillary is the real heavy weight contender and the Republicans will do anything to help keep her from getting the nomination. Democrats should not be fooled. We saw this here in Canada where the Conservative Party kept handicapping the Liberal Party leadership race, thus manipulating the membership of the Liberal Party as they were in the process of party renewal.

BS! I love how the left-wing operatives in the media rely on "unnamed sources" to spread their propaganda and lies.

Guess what: a source that wishes to remain anonymous says that Hillary and Obama are having a torrid love affair.

Wow, look at that, I can be a writer for CNN, too!

One thing we real Democrats and Repubicans can agree on: None of us care for Hillary Clinton. End of story.

I was waiting for the day when republicans start saying lofty things about Obama. Cause they know that if Obama becomes the democratic nominee, a republican is a sure shot in the whitehouse. Time will tell but I just dont see how a non-white person can become the president of the USA in recent times.