January 28, 2008
Posted: 10:00 AM ET
 Morrison said Monday she is backing Obama.
Morrison said Monday she is backing Obama.

(CNN) – A decade ago, she called Bill Clinton the nation's "first black president." Now, acclaimed black writer Toni Morrison’s first presidential endorsement is going to the potential second, Barack Obama.

In a letter to Obama released Monday morning, the “Beloved” author told him she was backing him because “this is one of those singular moments that nations ignore at their peril.”

“There have been a few prescient leaders in our past, but you are the man for this time,” she wrote

Morrison, who said she had long admired Hillary Clinton, added that her decision to back Obama instead was not based on the Illinois senator’s race.

“In addition to keen intelligence, integrity and a rare authenticity, you exhibit something that has nothing to do with age, experience, race or gender and something I don't see in other candidates,” Morrison wrote. “That something is a creative imagination which coupled with brilliance equals wisdom. It is too bad if we associate it only with gray hair and old age.”

In a statement, Obama thanked Morrison for her endorsement, saying she “has touched a nation with the grace and beauty of her words, and I was deeply moved and honored by the letter she wrote and the support she is giving our campaign.”

In a 1998 New Yorker piece, Morrison wrote of Bill Clinton: “White skin notwithstanding, this is our first black president. Blacker than any actual black person who could ever be elected in our children's lifetime. After all, Clinton displays almost every trope of blackness: single-parent household, born poor, working-class, saxophone-playing, McDonald's-and-junk-food-loving boy from Arkansas.”

– CNN Associate Political Editor Rebecca Sinderbrand

Filed under: Barack Obama


jasmine   January 29th, 2008 5:58 pm ET

HI MY NAME IS JASMINE AND MY BFF LOVE'S STUDING YOU AND ME TO JASMINE

Kevin, Ca   January 29th, 2008 1:34 pm ET

Welcome to all endorsements to boost up for Obama for Super Tuesday. Will they help or hurt him? Do polls matter anymore after they all failed to predict NH result? what to look for now?

There is nothing wrong with Obama, everything is fine! A voting guide.

1.It’s nothing wrong with Obama to accept favors from Rezko. Every politician does favors to collect favors, either for personal or a campaign fund and move on to get elected. If Obama bought land from Rezko less than 300k of market value, so what? Nothing has been proved that he knew it. He said he didn’t know it.

2.There is perfectly fine with Obama using drugs when he was young, he was just like one of many kids who have used, or will at sometime in their life. But at least Obama was honest to admit it. It was in the past, the law can’t convict him now. A very powerful, and smart message to connect to young voters when he could show he was like one of them, a brother, and an occasional sinner

3.It’s very naturally clever, and like any smart politician, Obama voted ‘present’ (neither Yes or No) when Obama didn’t want to create enemy on the record especially when his vote didn’t make any difference. That’s why Obama rarely has enemy ( except the Clintons). When enough people likes him, this tactic would prove as one of his most effective way to unite the country.

4.Obama opposed the Iraq war when he wasn’t yet a senator, and like anybody ( Joe & Moe on the street), and for any reason, one could opposed the war. His decision turned out to be much praised later on although no one has yet heard of why he did at the time. Whatever people want to label this as a lucky guess or a smart side-taking, Obama was right, wasn’t he? Don’t we all know that in sport sometimes a lucky team can win over a good team?

5.Although it’s against a tradition not to vocally praise your real opponent ( Republican in November) and talk down on your own team ( Democrat) before the competition begins, it’s nothing wrong with Obama when he praised Regan and discredited Clinton era. In fact, it was a very smart strategy when Obama sees the real opponent, at least for now, is Hillary, and the true friends are independent Reagan lovers. Obama will surely switch the tactic when an appropriate time will come. On the other hand, it would show Obama believes himself as honest, and a true uniter with a one-size-fits-all politics when he praised and embraced everybody… republicans, democrats, independents, minority, old, young, women, gays, lesbians, and even the ones who are not old enough to vote.

6.It makes feel so good to listen, and get excited by Obama speech every time one turns on TV because the speech contains of words rhymed one after the other, very poetic, it feels like the message of change being floating in the air. It’s so inspirational that one doesn’t even need a drink, nor drug to get high, that one can see bright future right away.

7.It is nothing wrong with 81 % of black voters, 300k more than 2004 primary who came out and voted for Obama in SC. Would you support to a Hispanic candidate if you were a Hispanic and think your candidate could win? But it would be racist if a white voter thinks about voting for a white candidate because he/she’s white.

8.It is nothing wrong with Obama campaign to stir up the race issue trying to win the SC; it was a smart campaign strategy to persuade black voters especially some of them have previously supported the Bill Clinton aka first black president.

9.It is perfectly fine, and not so hard to understand when the four biggest Gun, Tobacco, defense, and medical care industries have gone all their ways against the Clintons in the past, present, and future if you put yourselves in their shoes to comprehend how these billionaires feel. Everybody wants to make money, right!? So do they. The Clintons must have been very stupid to create such powerful enemies; they should have been quiet unless they really want more troubles… the lesson of being impeached once hasn’t help them to learn anything though.

10.There is nothing wrong with the fact that big media like MSNBC, CNN, Fox all hate Clinton’s, destroyed them in daily news reports, through New Hampshire’s mistaken polls… So what!? Imagine if one owns a news network and have nationally broadcast power, he/she would do the same unless one doesn’t realize having such power. Sorry Clinton’s supporters!, that’s life in America!

11.This was a very smart tactic when a current president (G. Bush), Karl Rove, and Newt Gingrich praised Hillary to be democratic nominee. It’s a common tactic which has been often used in politics, and military to first confuse opponents especially at the time some democrats don’t know who to vote for, then slooowly to enlighten them by pointing to polls that indicates Obama as the only one who could beat Mc Cain.

If all these above arguments seems ok and normal to you with no questions asked…. Go ahead and vote for Obama!

Woman from Canada   January 29th, 2008 12:16 pm ET

I don't need to judge these candidates as you Americans do …but I sure wish Barak was campaigning here! I think this endorsement is timely because her name has been dragged through the press for the last too weeks and her quotes have been dissected by pundits and has been a used as verbal weapons and weather or not she had intended to endorse any of the candidates …her opinions has been called to the forefront and she has taken on the charge of clarifying her current stance. She can choose to sway in any direction she pleases because she is an individual just like each of you who felt it important enough for you to speak out right here on this website. She is a Woman that happens to be black and also happens to be well respected a scholar in America and across the world. And in response to the person that loosely through out the number 15% as the percentage of Americans that know who she is …doesn’t paint a good picture of educated Americans as this woman in clearly not only known in the USA but all across the world!
I digress; Barak is in fact both White and Black! Don’t forget he represents the White, Black and Other! If the #s are correct the 80% blacks are supporting him. I believe that shows that they as a race are willing to be inclusive and not bias. If as an individual feel it’s necessary to downgrade this Race to Race that I suggest it’s high time you look into your willing to support a candidate that represents the so called Black Americans just as much as her represents you. Think about it !

Marcia   January 29th, 2008 11:43 am ET

What has Toni Morrison done to make you question her integrity? Her choice of candidate is her own, just as you have your own. Why challenge whether she sincerely believes in Obama's ability simply because she is black and he is black.

For goodness sake, this country elected George W. Bush, twice! But we are willing to completely denounce one poet because she is supporting the candidacy of someone who is unarguably intelligent and thoughtful.

But black is the only characteristic you see in her choice. Why?

Amirah   January 29th, 2008 11:21 am ET

For everyone that mistakenly says that Obama is a 'con man' or full of it should really try reading his books. Obama isn't someone that wants to answer every debate 'killer question' with a 'yes' or 'no' answer, which is, for some reason, what the media wants.

The truth is that the American public needs someone to answer complicated questions with (if it requires it) complicated answers, not a chauvanistic and overly simplistic 'No, I don't support giving drivers licenses to illegal immigrants!' and other quick-fire answers to issues (whether they are ridiculous and media generated or not).

What the American public needs is a president who will deliver the complicated answers eloquently. None of the issues we face are simple, so get ready to roll up your sleeves. And the American public might *gasp* actually have to listen and think for once, instead of listening to 'bad guy/good guy' labels relating to foreign policy issues or simple 'let's just cut taxes, job done' or other rhetoric that politicians have resorted to because they just think the public is too stupid to understand complicated economic, cultural or historical issues.

GObama. He's the thinking person's candidate.

tess   January 29th, 2008 11:21 am ET

of course it's about race. do you really think oprah would endorse obama if he were white?—–considering all his qualification and experience. honestly! oprah have a school in africa for girls to train to be leaders, even would -be world leaders and yet here he endorsed obama. sad… mrs. obama also was the one who injected race into this debate twisting pres. clinton words. she said the "fairy tale" refers to the possiblity of a black man being president of this country. but don't take my word for it- maybe i misunderstood what she said. go and watch it. if i am wrong i apologise to all concerned. just go and check it out. i hope to hear form any of you who checked this out. by the way pres. clinton fairy tale refers to obama's stand on iraq war.

Attacks by the Establishment on Ron Paul Continue   January 29th, 2008 8:41 am ET

Who cares?

WW - New York   January 29th, 2008 8:41 am ET

This is what’s going wrong in America. People don’t like Obama because he wants to give us hopes. For “centuries”, America was known as a land of hopes and dream. Now we have someone in “politics” who dear tell us we can do anything we set our minds to do! For everyone who thinks Obama is selling us a dream because he’s running for president is false! READ HIS BOOK! He has always talked about hope. I would rather dream than believe there’s no hope. In addition, I would rather have a leader that thinks things through than someone who will make snap judgments. Obama has made our youth feel wanted and important. He’s motivated people who had no interest in government to get involved and gave hope to those who had lost hope. People can say he’s full of hot air; to each their own opinion (I totally respect that), however, I would rather vote for someone who can at least make me think there's hope for the future!

webb   January 29th, 2008 8:08 am ET

By her endorsment of Obama she negates her comments made about Clinton in 1998 and shows that no matter how adamently she or anyone claims that it is not about race but other atributes, they are lying to themselves and to other that may hold them in high reguard.

Alice Stewart   January 29th, 2008 7:38 am ET

At last I have hope for our beautiful country again, Obama is the only way out of our unforgivable mess, thanks

Colony 14 author   January 29th, 2008 7:03 am ET

Morrison's writings are about as sophomoric as Obama's speeches, so exactly where is the news here?

d   January 29th, 2008 6:33 am ET

I have heard nothing from Obama…. he appears to me very arrogant. I will vote for anyone but him.!! No substance during his speeches. Phoney politician…just for his personal gain!

Greg, Iowa City   January 29th, 2008 1:05 am ET

This discussion about race is ridiculous. Do you people realize that Barack Obama won definitively in Iowa? Do you realize that Iowa is approx. 95% white? I guess that was about race as well.

Obama is doing well primarily because he has the best position on the war and he has shown the ability to inspire young voters. It also helps that he won one lily white state (Iowa) and almost won another (New Hampshire). Race was never an issue until someone in the Clinton campaign accused him of "shucking and jiving" his way to the White house.

karen   January 29th, 2008 12:45 am ET

Jb, I dont think you get Mona's point. What mona was saying is that .using the terms cousin ray-ray or pokie were obviously ways that obama was signifying in-group membership with this audience that was largely african american. in other words HE WAS PLAYING THE RACE CARD. All that HRC said was that "it took a president to do it" -thats all and Obama was jumping up and down saying it was "ill-advised". It was not like she pointed out the race of the president or anything. So I agree with MONA – obama's camp is playing the RACE CARD and by golly it will hurt them in states where there are large # s of asians and latinos. He can equate the rest of us non-white non-black minorities to polka dots or whatever, but it doesnt count. As michelle obama would say, "ain't no latinos in south carolina." So lets see what happens when super tuesday rolls around in CA, and other states.

Happy   January 29th, 2008 12:38 am ET

This is a freaking biased media. IF you turn on CNN, all you hear is Obama this and Obama that. I mean give Edwards and Hillary a chance to represent themselves too. The news station has hired two african american political analyst who always support Obama. If you don't believe me, just turn on CNN and watch for Holmes and another analyst.

I mean why not hire two analyst who always support Edwards or Clinton. Where is the fair reporting? I want to know the issues. It's amazing how Obama has brain washed everybody. Leaders who can inspire like this are also dangerous – just study History.

ddt   January 29th, 2008 12:35 am ET

I don't think the Clintons have said anything about this woman. The woman is obviously black and she has to vote for a black man by their belief. What bothers me about black people, they voted 2% for former senator John Edwards. This is a man who has been talking about issues affecting black people and that is poverty. He even made his announcement for presidency in New Orleans. He has been there pressing for the reconstruction of the city, he is a SC born. In my opiniion, senator Edwards deserved a win there not Obama. Obama by the way his father is Kenyan he is half American half Kenyan. I don't think the republican would let a man like Obama be the next president when Macnain an American hero is in line for the same job. I believe the race card was played in SC the black man won.

MamaHick   January 29th, 2008 12:29 am ET

How do we know what a president will do or not do once he /she is elected?. History shows us clearly that prior experience is not an indicator of a president's productivity, in many instances. Yes they make great promises. They tell us just what we want to hear, but how many are successful in fulfilling their promises.

I hear a new voice in Obama. He is proposing that the nation of America will pull together to heal the mess that our "great experienced leaders have us in at this time." He is speaking a message of unity. That is what is needed to get us out of this mess. Let the small minded people keep focusing on race, slander and insignificant stuff as the nation falls deeper into poverty and insignificance. This nation needs change. The change eminates from the mind of someone who has intelligence and wisdom.

Wake up America! It is later than we think. The old ways of thinking and prejudices have not worked here at home or abroad for our image or prosperity. I believe we have hit "rock bottom." How much lower can we sink? I belive change is the new direction that requires participation frpm all of us.

gello   January 28th, 2008 11:48 pm ET

To the clown Tony from Alabama : NOW I KNOW WHY SOME OF YOU PEOPLE ARE SUCH A DRAG ON THE INTELLECTUAL GROWTH OF THIS COUNTRY ; STILL BACKWARDS IN YOUR THINKING. IF YOU NEED TO FIND OUT WHERE OBAMA STANDS ON THE ISSUES CHECK OUT HIS WEBSITE. I'M PREJUDICE AGAINST STUPIDITY SO PLEASE FIND YOUR LEVEL AND THE FACTS. I'M ALSO A BIG PROPONENT OF A SOUND PUBLIC OR PRIVATE EDUCATION AND ANYTHING LESS WE END UP WITH PEOPLE LIKE YOU.

Nathan   January 28th, 2008 11:40 pm ET

Toni Morrision ought to be ashamed of herself for stripping Bill Clinton of the title she conferred on him 10 years ago as the first Black President simply because someone else who is biologically more black than Bill Clinton has surfaced.

Al, Los Angeles, CA   January 28th, 2008 11:38 pm ET

Tony, Enterprise, Alabama: Everyone is entitled to their opinion. But generally Editor of the Harvard Law Review is a pretty smart guy.

You have a point that his positions are getting lost in the rhetoric.

But so is yours.

And if you go to his site, you find his positions just like Time Magazine did, are very similar to Hillary's.

Tony Morrison's point was that, although he is younger than Hillary, he is still wise enough to make good decisions.

Al, Los Angeles, CA   January 28th, 2008 11:11 pm ET

Jenna, do you know any black or mixed people? People generally identify themselves by how the world identifies them. They get tired of explaining.

According to statistics 80% of Americans have both Black & White blood somewhere down the line. So should we all say we are mixed?

The only valid pro Billary comments I see here, is the fact that while Toni Morrison is very talented, her opinion means very little.

But you can tell a lot about the people making comments. Look how race was injected here in a negative light. It was only relevant in a positive way, with her statement about Bill Clinton. Obviously, some Americans are not ready for a Black president.

Black Women in Florida for Hillary   January 28th, 2008 11:11 pm ET

President Hillary Clinton '08

Jake   January 28th, 2008 11:03 pm ET

For those complaining about the lack of Clinton media coverage in this presidential election. Here are the facts:
Clinton receives 25% of the media coverage
Obama receives 16% of the media coverage

And this just in: Toni Morrison's support of Obama is not because of race. Just like the BET Channel founder's support of Clinton is not because of race.

Sean McM   January 28th, 2008 11:00 pm ET

Bring on Mayor Bloomburg,,,,pathetic choices!!!

Allen D   January 28th, 2008 10:41 pm ET

You people are so funny. I am a white male who was supportive of Hillary while she ran her own campaign. I supported her, not because she was white like me, but because she was a woman. No shame in the game, I admit I wanted her to win because she was a woman. But, after having the opportunity to see her debates in their entirety during the holiday season I have changed my mind. Although I would like to see a female president, I have realised that Hillary cannot win.

Hillary is turning out to be unelectable on the national scale. Bill has taken over her campaign, and I believe that even if she could pull of a victory people are going to say that she didn't win, bill won again.

Hillary is getting votes from old white women. Lets not forget that Obama is getting votes from the young, old, black, white, rich, poor, educated, not so educated. I think the Republicans have torn the nation apart these last 28 years. It is time we put the country back together; and frankly I don't see Hillary doing that.

You won't find many republicans, or even independants, coming out for Hillary, but they are coming out in droves for Obama. With Hillary out of the race, he will be pulling all the democratic votes, plus some of the rep and Ind votes which would ensure a win.

Now just to touch on the race issue, I think you gals are all being petty. What is wrong with 80 percent of black people voting for a black candidate. That is something to be proud about. Do you know how many of my black friends who grew up with no hope of ever seeing a black man in office? Now that there is a serious candidate in office who has impecable credentials, is eloquent, smart, non polarizing, why shouldn't they vote for him. The 20 percent who voted against him were all idiots.

And for those of you blaming all the race slinging on Obama, remember it all came out right after Obama won in Iowa. I guess Bill was scared that Hillary was going to lose so he had to do something to stop the momentum.

I don't want to see the republicans back in office, I am going with the person who can guarantee that. I am going with Obama. Mayb Hillary can regroup, take back her campaign away from her husband and run again in 2012. I would vote her then

Mac in Nova Scotia   January 28th, 2008 9:55 pm ET

The Clintons loved this lady when she said that Bill Clinton was the first black president. Now that she endorsed Obama they are singing a different tune.
Hilbill go away and give us a break.

Georgia voter   January 28th, 2008 9:24 pm ET

It is a sad day when the media, and the media stars, are deciding the President of the United States. People are reacting like lemings-right off the cliff.

Anne   January 28th, 2008 9:18 pm ET

Obama is an empty shirt who just wants to capitalize off of his candidacy at the expense of the American people, especially young people. Watch how he tries to make money off of the fact that he ran for President. For real change THAT WILL HELP THE AMERICAN PEOPLE vote for the FairTax candidate, Mike Huckabee.

Brian   January 28th, 2008 8:27 pm ET

JB

First, I knew she was talking about Bill and not Hillary.

Second, you are asumming that I'm a Clinton supporter,. Not yet, still Independent, undecided. You know what they say about asumming anything?

Third, I'm better informed apparently than you. If you call a leader someone who changes his/her vote in favor of whomever won, because he hit the wrong button or didn't mean to vote that way. . Someone who votes "present" 130 times. Someone who votes NO on a cap of 30% to freeze credit card interests because IT'S TOO HIGH? Someone who changes his mind as often as he does is not a leader, but a follower of whomever is winning at the time. I don't follow trends or fads because they tend to run their course and end.
Clinton at least voted and takes responsibility for her votes. Right or Wrong.

Fourh, Pretty speeches don't a president make. Action speaks for me and he hasn't shown me any yet. As of today, all he's shown me is that the "Change" he's preaching, is him hooking up with the "old status quo" politicians who will walk all over him. I for one, am very happy that Kennedy and his son endorsed Obama. It puts another check mark in the Clinton and Republican colomn.

Finally, I'm voting for President of the US, not most popular. Tis isn't a beauty contest.

John ny, ny   January 28th, 2008 8:07 pm ET

morrison just go home and write another book. I am sick and tired of people coming out of woodwork in the name of endorsement for 5 minutes of fame. I don't care what morrison or anyone else thinks of anyone. End of the day I have to think of what is good for me someone who is not making millions selling books or someone with talkshow or someone who is born into kennedy.

WH-KC/AZ   January 28th, 2008 7:45 pm ET

What is wrong with people? What a flock of sheep! I am so sick of Hollywood, Oprah, washed up Senators and uninformed voters who want to get on the "hip" band wagon. Are you waiting to find out who Britney, Paris and Lindsay endorse??? Wake up! Is this what it has come to? Who cares who these people endorse! I encourage people to educate themselves on the issues, the candidates and what is a stake. This not the time to cast a vote thinking it is some "retro" election from the 60's! The WORLD is in a mess. We are responsible for much of it. The United States of America elected an idiot who has made a mess of our State of the Union".
Let's use our heads and hearts to make the decision for the next president. This is not a beauty contest, this an opportunity to make a CRITICAL choice for our future and our childrens future. The President we elect will have one huge plate of "S..T" to clean up. Vote for someone who can handle the pressure, has the knowledge and experience and is well connected with the right people to pull us together and get us out of this black hole. I met Barack Obama and he is very charming and very charismatic and he might be a great President someday. But, my vote goes to Hillary. She is ready today! She is a very educated intelligent person who has the self confidence and backbone to lead us to better days. Look, listen and learn. Each person should make their own educated endorsement. Think for yourself!

Anonymous   January 28th, 2008 7:43 pm ET

It is all about race! OBAMA will not win. He will get his butt kicked on Super Tuesday. We are looking forward to it!

Ex. Democrat/Now Independent   January 28th, 2008 7:43 pm ET

Did anyone of you " Obama doubtful/ Hillary enthusihast" watch Cnn last nite? The Republican slime machine crew cant wait for Hillary to get the nomination. They did not even mention Obama. This Tony Rezko nonsense is a drop in the bucket when compare the the Clinton's history. Another thing, Hillary keep saying only she can take on the Republicans. We the people are tired of the fighting. Hillary have scores to settle. Vote smart. A change is necessary , very necessary. Let Democratindependent and Republican work together to fix this mess.

sherry   January 28th, 2008 7:32 pm ET

IN RESPONSE TO "ANSWER THIS"……….I COULDN'T HAVE SAID IT BETTER. SO TRUE. …………………AMERICA NEEDS OBAMA……….PERIOD!

sherry   January 28th, 2008 7:30 pm ET

ABOUT THE RACE ISSUE:
WAKE UP, OBAMA DIDN'T BRING IT UP THE CLINTON'S DID. BILL HAS USED THE RACE CARD REPEATEDLY AND HILLARY HAS TOO. OBAMA IS JUST DEFENING HIMSELF AND RESPONDIG TO THE FLOOD OF LIES THE CLINTON'S ARE SPEWINNG. THE CLINTON'S ARE DIRTY OLD POLITICS AS USAUL AND OBAMA IS TRYING TO CLEAN UP POLITICS AND KEEP ON THE ISSUES.

SPEAKING OF CLINTON LIES I WISH NEWS CASTERS WOULD CONFRONT HILLARY ON HER REPEATED LIES OF "35YRS OF EXPERIENCE". BEING MARRIED TO A POLITICIAN FOR 35 YRS IS NOT POLITICAL EXPERIENCE. BUT OBAMA'S LONG HISTORY OF COMMUNITY WORK AND POLITICS IS. HE IS YOUNGER THAN HILLARY SO HE CAN'T HAVE "35 YRS" EVEN IF HER STATEMENT WAS THE TRUTH. HE IS THE ANSWER FOR THIS COUNTRY. WE DON'T NEED ANOTHER CLINTON DINASTY. ONE WAS ENOUGH. P.S. I VOTED FOR BILL TWICE. WILL NEVER VOTE FOR HIS WIFE, WHO SHOULDN'T BE RUNNING FOR PRESIDENT IN THE FIRST PLACE.

Tony, Enterprise, Alabama   January 28th, 2008 7:24 pm ET

Senator Obama possesses neither brilliance, nor wisdom.

As far as I can tell he stands "for change and hope", but has no hope of making change. Without details, and he offers few, he really only stands for Senator Obama. He is still an unknown quantity, and an empty shirt.

In spite of her words to the contrary, I believe that Ms. Morrison looks at Senator Obama and sees an African American running for President. How sad that the other things she sees are visbile only to her.

Like so many Obama supporters she sees only that which appeals to her, and none of the faults or falsehoods. Would that we could wish hard enough and make it so, there is still no there there.

He is destined to be an asterisk in the history of presidential politics.

gee   January 28th, 2008 7:14 pm ET

This message is for Jay, the liar and race-baiter. I guess that in your demented mind that poor, ' vote for me because I'm a woman',manipulative,lying, fake crying Hilary is the victim here. Next time when you want to refer to a racist memo get your facts right . Jay, I was told once that ignorance and stupidity are bliss – you must be some happy guy. Advice: Jay, why don't you get race hustler's Charlie Rangel, Andrew Young, John Lewis , Bill Clinton and BET's Bob Johnson help you make your sick point the next time because they might be able to articulate it better.

Jennifer   January 28th, 2008 7:08 pm ET

Wake-up, America!! If you think for one minute that this is not about race you must have your head in the mud. If all 3 candidates were white, the race card would turn into the gender card. We must remember that Mr. Obama was raised by his white mother and grandparents. He has never denounced his biracial heritage, but the Clintons AND their supporters have. As an African-American, woman, with 2 biracial children, I don't support Mr. Obama because he's African-American. But I do support him because I believe this country is ready for a change. If African-Americans, especially women vote for Clinton thinking that they are going to get that change, they are sadly in for another four years of disappointments. Hillary Clinton cannot use the same manipulative, intimidating tactics that she's been using if she is our next president. They won't work on our friends or enemies overseas. TEARS truly won't work!! And they don't/won't work to bring the Dems and Reps. together in the White House. Stop making excuses for the Clintons and recognize them for who they truly are. Just because she was married to a President, does not make HER a viable President. They still have Confederate flags in Arkansas. By the way, I use to believe in the Clintons whole-heartedly, until I started to really listen to their out-of-the-side-of-their-month speeches!!

Barry   January 28th, 2008 6:58 pm ET

Are the Clintons power hungry and will do anything to gain their objective? Well, may be, and Hillary is probably selfish too. It would have been nice if she had showed some gratitude to the people of South Carolina who voted for her by staying their and concede. That was mean and selfish. Bill Clinton is not in this race. Will someone please remind him.

JB   January 28th, 2008 6:57 pm ET

Sorry Brian, try as you may, you didn't get it straight. Her quote was about Bill Clinton, not Hillary. That seems to be common theme among her supporters, they think they will be getting the same leadership with her as they did with Bill.

Al   January 28th, 2008 6:57 pm ET

THIS ELECTION IS NOT ABOUT RACE OR GENDER, PLEASE AMERICA LETS ALL ACT LIKE INTELLIGENT HUMAN BEINGS AND IGNORE THE RACIAL COMMENTS FROM THE IGNORANT PEOPLE TRYING TO CAUSE A RACIAL DIVISION. DO NOT HOLD OBAMA LIABLE FOR ANY RACIAL COMMENTS OR ATTRIBUTE, DONT MIND THE IGNORANT BLACK, WHITE ASIAN, MEXICAN PEOPLE MAKING THIS A ELECTION A RACIAL ONE.

AMERICA, LETS NOT MAKE THE SAME MISTAKE WE MADE TWICE ON THE LAST TWO ELECTIONS BY VOTING IN GEORGE BUSH, I DONT KNOW WHY PEOPLE DID, THE SAME PEOPLE ARE THE ONES WITHOUT HEALTH INSURANCE, MONEY IN THEIR POCKETS, DID U VOTE HIM IN BECAUSE YOU LIKED HIS LIES OR BECAUSE OF HIS PARTY OR JUST BECAUSE U LIKED HIS ACCENT(IN PROPER SPOKEN ENGLISH)?YES, U CAN NOT FULLY TRUST POLITICIAN, BUT LETS HELP OUR COUNTRY BY CHOOSING THE RIGHT CANDIDATE WHO IS AT LEAST CLOSE TO BEING HONEST, INTELLIGENT, SMART.

AMERICA, WE DONT WANT OUR NEXT PRESIDENT TO BE AN ARROGANT ONE OR DOES NOT HAVE RESPECT FOR HUMAN LIFE. I TRAVEL A LOT OVERSEAS, THE WHOLE WORLD DOES NOT LIKE AMERICA BECAUSE THEY FEEL LIKE AMERICANS ARE ARROGANT AND BULLIES, THATS WHY ON THE LAST ELECTION A BRITISH NEWSPAPER ASKED "' WHY ARE 50 MILLION AMERICAN SO STUPID" AMERICA LETS NOT SHOW ARROGANCE AND STUPIDITY ANY MORE. I THINK THE RIGHT CANDIDATE IS OBAMA" 08 FOR UNITY AND WORLD PEACE.

JB   January 28th, 2008 6:46 pm ET

Mona, I'm not sure how using the terms pookie or ray ray is using the race card. I have a friend named ray ray and he happens to be white. If this is the best that you can do, your mind was made up the moment you saw Obama.

Bryce   January 28th, 2008 6:24 pm ET

I know a whole bunch of staunch Dems.
NONE of them like Obama.
Who the hell really does?
It seems to me that a few people who work for Obama are probably in here trashing Hillary 24/7 as an easy campaign tactic. That's the only thing I can come up with because most of what ends up on here sounds like a cult of religios fanatics raising the man up to be our savior!!!! Every dem I know takes one look at the guy and sees that same bull in a different skin.
He promisses what he cannot possibly deliver and everyone knows it!!!

Absolutly amazing.

Bill, Tx   January 28th, 2008 6:24 pm ET

Re: Wake up America

There is a bill in the House right now, HR 25, proposing the fair tax idea.
First of all you should read the bill. It calls for a 23% inclusive tax for 2007.
This means for every 100.00 spent the government gets 23.00. In order to get items to the 100.00 level you have to add 30% to its cost (ie 1.3 times 77.00 = 100.10). The sales tax rate would be 30%; not the 23% Huckabee touts.

Then years after 2007 the 23% goes to 14.91% plus Social Security and Medicare which now is 15.3 % for a total of 30.21% inclusive. The means the sales tax rate would have to be 43 plus percent.

The prebates that Huckabee talks about are based on the poverty level which right now in the neighborhood of 16000 per year. This is far less than most of us spend on goods and services. Consider this. Under his plan a gallon of gas would increase from 3.00 to 3.90. How is that going to affect your commute costs?

Don;t be fooled in to thinking the fair tax is anything other that a scheme by the upper income elite to avoid paying taxes.

Robert M. Reidy N.Y.   January 28th, 2008 6:19 pm ET

WOW !!!

joe   January 28th, 2008 6:06 pm ET

I think its funny how people have posted that one candidate is more qualified then the other. Below are the requirements for being eligible/qualifying for President.

Age and Citizenship requirements – US Constitution, Article II, Section 1

No person except a natural born citizen, or a citizen of the United States, at the time of the adoption of this Constitution, shall be eligible to the office of President; neither shall any person be eligible to that office who shall not have attained to the age of thirty-five years, and been fourteen years a resident within the United States.

Term limit amendment – US Constitution, Amendment XXII, Section 1 – ratified February 27, 1951

No person shall be elected to the office of the President more than twice, and no person who has held the office of President, or acted as President, for more than two years of a term to which some other person was elected President shall be elected to the office of the President more than once.

John   January 28th, 2008 6:06 pm ET

Every time I see Obama give a speach, I feel like I’m at the football or baseball stadium. Great. Lots of cheering and optimistic “hopes”. I’m just wondering when he has to take on Castro and Iran and Korea …etc. if he’s going to just cross his fingers and “hope” that things will work out for the best. He sort of reminds me of those religious guys on the t.v. where eveyone is captivated by this great speach about believing and “yes we can, yes we can…” I think that I need a little more than just smoke to “believe” in. I’m going to vote for Hillary Clinton !

Joshua, Nashville   January 28th, 2008 6:00 pm ET

SC's primary in 2004 was carried by a white man over a black man. It is not about race, it is about seeing someone who can get the job done and work with integrity to promote American interests, all Americans including black Americans.

When has Barack Obama pandered to the black vote?

I know Hillary has, it has happened twice here in Nashville in little over a week. Bill Clinton stumped for Hillary at Fisk, a historically black college, and days later Hillary did the same at Tennessee State University, another historically black college.

But that is okay and Obama is the one using race to his advantage?

Look, Obama got about 20% of the white vote in SC, the same percentage of the black vote Hillary got. White voters have the advantage of voting for a plethora of white candidates, they have never known what it was like to not have that option.

jon   January 28th, 2008 5:49 pm ET

It's so annoying when people claim 'intelligence' as their motivation for tearing down a particular candidate. I'm undecided, but most of the faux intellectuals seem to be going after Obama, exhorting everyone to 'use their heads' and 'come to their senses'. Why don't you listen to your own suggestions?

1- most often when a politician votes 'present' it is part of a complex GROUP dynamic involving agreements and deals reached with other representatives regarding legislation. There is a legitimate reason that representatives are even allowed to vote 'present'. The fact that Senator Obama has made this vote so often is simply a sign of his maturity as a politician, his ability to use every tool of the legislative process

2 – Obama lacks experience? He's got more actual experience as an ELECTED public servant than Clinton and more than Bill Clinton had when he became president. Citizens have actually chosen him repeatedly to represent their interests more than Hillary has been chosen. Hillary is a decade and a half OLDER than him, if that's what you mean by experience?

3 – the supposed connection with Rezko is a joke. Would you consider yourself guilty if you bought a car from a friendly neighbor and then found out several years later that he had been cheating on his taxes? Of course not. There is no story here…except maybe the sad story of Democrats turning to nasty Republican campaign techniques as they tear into one another.

4 – Obama can't win because he's black, too nice, the country's just not ready yet, etc. History is full of people doing what supposedly can't be done. I urge you to vote your conscience in this election, not from a supposed sense of 'electability'.

MissyE   January 28th, 2008 5:47 pm ET

Toni Morrison is proud to be an Obama supporter. Does that make her black(er) or racist or a self hating woman? No. she's a voter with an opinion.

Race may be an uncomfortable dialogue for many of us but I really hope we don't have to go to civil war over it. It's sounds ignorant that we have to attack every black person who supports Obama, or be mad at Obama for gaining endorsements.

Racist
The theory that distinctive human characteristics and abilities are determined by race. (see terms like "the black vote")

Institutional racism
(also known as structural racism, state racism or systemic racism) is racial discrimination by governments, corporations, educational institutions or other large organizations with the power to influence the lives of many individuals. Stokely Carmichael is credited for coining the phrase institutional racism in the late 1960s. He defined the term as "the collective failure of an organization to provide an appropriate and professional service to people because of their colour, culture or ethnic origin"

Gee   January 28th, 2008 5:45 pm ET

If Obama is nominated, I will not vote period.

Ella   January 28th, 2008 5:36 pm ET

I will not vote for HIllary. Don't want to see another Clinton in office. Obama you have my VOTE!!!!!!!!!!

Wake Up America   January 28th, 2008 5:34 pm ET

I will never vote for Obama and I'm a minority. He is not about change as indicated by the endorsements he has received from Ted Kennedy and John Kerry. Talk is cheap. Americans should not be swayed by Obama's rhetoric. People like Obama, Ted Kennedy and John Kerry, who attended so-called ivy league schools such as Harvard and Yale, feel that they are the only ones entitled to run this country and they WANT TO CONTINUE TO TREAT THIS COUNTRY LIKE THEIR PERSONAL KINGDOM AT THE EXPENSE OF THE AMERICAN PEOPLE. THAT IS WRONG! THIS IS A DEMOCRACY! For real positive change for all Americans, vote for Mike Huckabee, the only FairTax candidate who will eliminate the IRS and turn this country around for the better!

HUCKABEE 08!

Brian   January 28th, 2008 5:34 pm ET

Let me get this straight. First I had no idea who this woman was until I read the article. She said, “White skin notwithstanding, this is our first black president. Blacker than any actual black person who could ever be elected in our children's lifetime." Now she has changed her mind and endorsed Obama. Have I got this right? Oh brother, Obama's campaign of CHANGE is you can't believe anyone. They keep changing their minds.

Ann   January 28th, 2008 5:25 pm ET

The American people will not be swayed by the so-called elitist who endorse Obama. This country is for all Americans, not just for people who think their endorsements are better than others. Why publicize such endorsements as if their vote counts more than other Americans? Each person is entitled to only one vote.

Christian   January 28th, 2008 5:15 pm ET

Honestly, for our situation today I won't place my bet on Obama. He's a little too young for our needs RIGHT NOW. He can WAIT another four years. I'm sick of it to the point that I will swing Republican if he gets nominated.

Becky Montgomery   January 28th, 2008 5:13 pm ET

My previous post was not supposed to have a question mark after the first sentence.

Becky Montgomery   January 28th, 2008 5:12 pm ET

I am a white woman voting for Obama? It is because he is sincere and honest and i TRUST him.

On the experience issue: Obama has more years in elected office than Hillary. Check it out. Being the First Lady doesn't count as experience. He taught Constitutional Law for ten years.

Race is a non-issue for me, and a lot of other voters.

Tx   January 28th, 2008 5:09 pm ET

I remember how incompetent the people of Florida are. Most do not speak English.

Lee-- Dallas, TX   January 28th, 2008 5:05 pm ET

Obama is not only in notion a unifier but he has proven throughout his campaign that he is able to bring those from every side of the political spectrum to his corner. Neither Clinton nor her supporters will ever be able to say, and I do mean ever.

david, tx   January 28th, 2008 4:57 pm ET

well jenna, thanks for pointing this out.

anti-miscegenation laws were all rendered null and void by a 1967 United States Supreme Court ruling in a case known as Loving v. Virginia . Thus, since 1967, there has been in this country no law – either superficial or scientific – defining who is black.

if one just has to ask the question, the real question should not be “who is black” but instead “who is white.” In other words we all have a degree of “African blood” whether “discernible” or not.

and so how long will we allow ourselves to be partially defined with hyphens? It has been about a year since i openly stated that i will never check another box that said anything more than just "American". anything further is hypocritical.

Michael   January 28th, 2008 4:55 pm ET

I wonder what you posters would have said if Obama lost SC…

What has Hilary done for this nation? Seriously..someone please answer this question and I'll support Clinton…Her stimulus plan wasn't sufficient…Obama's was comprehensive but yet she continues to tout 35 ears of experience…

If there is anything this country needs now, it's a president who would heal and mend our reputation around the world, while correcting the mistakes of the Bush presidency…

"Together we stand, divided we fall"…"A house divided cannot stand"… Clinton believes this election is about fighting the Republicans…Obama believes it's about working with the Republicans…

Republicans, Democrats, Independents are they not all Americans? Are they not fighting for the same cause? Better healthcare, economy etc?

The world is watching and reading…It's time for Change in America…It's time for a generational shift. Give change a chance!!!

Scott   January 28th, 2008 4:53 pm ET

If Clinton supporters want to make a issue of Obama and Rezko, please explain the Clinton relationship with Norman Hsu. I think there are far more skeletons in the Clinton closet.

donna   January 28th, 2008 4:50 pm ET

Of course Toni Morrison would back Obama. She has a connection to Oprah…..her TV show "Beloved" based on her best seller book.

Patrice   January 28th, 2008 4:49 pm ET

It is truly sad to see some of the written commentary. I 'm sure many don't care that Toni Morrison endorsed Obama but the question was raised at the last debate and I'm sure this is her way of responding. What she meant when she said the comment about Pres. Clinton was that he was the first president to truly relate to the issues of miniorites. Many blacks are supporting Clinton and whites are also supporting Obama..Do you think Obama raised over one hundread million of his money from the Black community? It doesn't surprise me that this county has not progressed further.
Support who you believe will do best…PLH

Al in Wpg   January 28th, 2008 4:42 pm ET

Turquoise, to answer your question, I beleive if Hillary gets the majority of the votes in Florida, the DNC will overturn their decision therefore granting Hill/Bill the victory… good old politics.

JM, Orange County, CA   January 28th, 2008 4:41 pm ET

At first I was so completely fascinated by this campaign/primary season. What a wonderful moment in history to be able to observe first-hand.

Now I'm beginning to get that sinking feeling…

If Obama wins the nomination unenlightened white people will cry RACIST!

If Obama does not win the nomination unenlighted blacks will say the same.

"They" were right. This country is not ready for this…

Sucks that participants in the first interesting presidential campaign of my lifetime are bound and determined to destroy the political party I love.

Clinton AND Obama supporters – grow up!

From people taking personal potshots at Chelsea last week, to people screaming "RACISM!" every time a prominent black person endorses Obama… If that is what you really believe in, who you really are as people, I'm sorry for and ashamed of you all.

From en EDUCATED BLACK FEMALE supporter of Barack Obama.
(Go ahead, call me a racist, you know you want to.)

aware   January 28th, 2008 4:41 pm ET

If Barack had any wisdom, he would have waited to run for the presidency instead of listening to Big Ted. He is not ready, and he is killing the Dems! :(

Robert   January 28th, 2008 4:39 pm ET

To all of you Obama supporters:

Can someone please tell me about his 15-plus years with ties to Antoin "Tony" Rezko. If it were Clinton with these ties you would be all over it.

Patrice   January 28th, 2008 4:35 pm ET

It is truly sad to see some of the written commentary. I 'm sure many don't care that Toni Morrison endorsed Obama but the question was raised at the last debate and I'm sure this is her way of responding. What she meant when she said the comment about Pres. Clinton was that he was the first president to truly relate to the issues of miniorites. Many blacks are supporting Clinton and whites are also supporting Obama..Do you think he raised most of his money from the Black community? It doesn't surprise me that this county has not progressed further.
Support who you believe will do best…PLH

Sean, San Diego CA   January 28th, 2008 4:30 pm ET

nimu81

Great piece.

Turquoise   January 28th, 2008 4:25 pm ET

I forgot to mention ,why are people so excited about Florida their delegates won't count ! and delegates are what candidates need.

Turquoise   January 28th, 2008 4:21 pm ET

The Clinton's are "old school yesterday politicions" It is time for "new" ideals,and big time changes, I'll become an independent voter before I will vote for Hillary/Bill
This country has always been and will always be about race concerning certain issues.

Taylor   January 28th, 2008 4:17 pm ET

Why are none of Clinton's endorsements geting big headlines like Obama's? And does CNN even realize John Edwards is still in the race for president? I'm so sick of CNN playing favorites to Obama. I'm switching the channel and my homepage.

Barack the Vote!   January 28th, 2008 4:14 pm ET

It hurts me to hear people say that the election boils down to race. I think not!Morrision endorsed Sen. Obama because he is an inspiring, humble and, a smart man who is well qualified to become president. Her endorsement has nothing to do with race. Were the Kennedy's endorsement about race too? If they were, then why didnt they support Hilary? Be fair. Vote from your heart. Barack Obama has my vote and if you listen to him just once, I'm sure he will have yours.

BARACK THE VOTE!!!!

Alexander chenault
Blogger in Chief
chenaultreport.blogspot.com

Bev   January 28th, 2008 4:07 pm ET

When did Obama return monies to his frend Tony Reck-o-las.
What month, day, and time?
He was just arrested hours ago 1/28/08 2:00 p.m. California time.
This does not look good for Obama. But he claims he's innocent? is he or isn't he? You see the sewer rats always find their way to the surface.
heeheeheheheeeehhheeeeeeheeeeheeeehhheeeeeeee!
Gotcha……………………………go hillary!!!!

:Lone Star for Hillary   January 28th, 2008 4:04 pm ET

Anyone notice when Obama's gives his speeches he is sounding more and more like MLK? His speech is candence and full of cliches. I think he's just trying to impress his constituencies. He is just so over the top and his speeches are so very predictable.

Independent in DC   January 28th, 2008 3:57 pm ET

1. I’m baffled by this grand illusion that Hillary is any more qualified than Barack. Get real.

2. Let’s keep it real, neither of these candidates is going to institute any real radical change (ESPECIALLY not Hillary). If you actually research any of their policies you’ll find their differences are trivial at best. If Americans really wanted change they’d be considering candidates like Kucinich and Ron Paul.

3. For those of you who pigeonhole the entire African American community as mindless zombies that lack the intelligence to distinguish each candidate in regards to issues and/or the perceived character of the candidate; who only support Barack because he is half-black…you are the real racists and you signify your true colors through this view. As an African-American I am insulted by this notion.

4. If Obama gets the nom, I’ll be casting my vote for him. If he doesn’t I’ll be going third-party or write-in and here is why:

(a) the only thin Hillary (and Bill) care about is power. If you really think she was crying for you in NH you’re extremely gullible. She was crying for herself cause she could see her “inevitability” slipping away right before her eyes. You got played. Furthermore, the Clintons are just as polarizing as GW. To think that Hillary would be able to unite this country is absolutely ludicrous.

(b) Kucinich is out and virtually had no chance to begin with.

(c) I don’t care for any of the Republican candidates ideas other than Ron Paul…and he’d be lucky to sniff the White House lawn at this point let alone be elected President (d) though policy wise, Obama offers no radical change, he does however offer the innate ability to inspire and motivate people to do and be better. And he is genuine. He’s no JFK but he has a better shot at changing the partisan/polarizing tone here in DC than anyone else.

Josh   January 28th, 2008 3:56 pm ET

If CNN is going to moderate comments, may I suggest that they stop allowing submissions made in all caps. It is childish and rude. It makes this board look like myspace.

Bill, Tx   January 28th, 2008 3:56 pm ET

When I first heard Obama at the 2004 convention I said "there is the next president of the united states." I did not say the first black president (I am caucasian senior citizen).

I guess I was too busy being inspired by a truly great american to notice the color of his skin.

dyno dem   January 28th, 2008 3:50 pm ET

It's all about race. You are in denial if you think it's not. Hillary was the only one to take him on and she's playing the race card. Watch the best political team on CNN, they talk about her playing the race card as if its fact or waging the "southern strategy". ? Keep fighting Hillary, for those who want and need real change.

brian   January 28th, 2008 3:47 pm ET

I can understand it as it is natural for the members of racial and religious minorities to back one of their own. Like Mormons are proud and promoting Mitt. African Americans may support for Barrack as he is one of his own. She has every rights to promote him.

Answer This   January 28th, 2008 3:43 pm ET

Question (please respond): Why is it that when a few thousand Black people cast votes for a Black candidate, it was race-based voting; but when MILLIONS of white people cast MILLIONS of votes for a white candidate it's totally legit??

Really, America, take a look deep inside. There are no such thing as black votes, white votes, male votes, and female votes. Each citizen gets their vote–no color, race, or creed attached.

And stop it with the experience non-sense. This is an elected office. Barack has four more years of elected office than Hillary and six more than John Edwards. Plus, he just got support from a man who has over 45 years in elected national politics–more than anyone on this board . . . period.

Sus   January 28th, 2008 3:38 pm ET

So what? Maya Angelou endorsed Sen. Clinton ages ago. She didn't have to wait for a win in a black state.

united for truth   January 28th, 2008 3:37 pm ET

So what! if Morrison support Obama. We claim to be smartest country on the face of the earth, yet we 're so ignorant and dumb mined. As a white America that grew up in the south.. Hillary will never.. i say never receive my vote.

Marva Drew   January 28th, 2008 3:36 pm ET

Dear Ms Morrison,

Thank you very much for your endorsement.

May God Continue to Bless You.

Marva Drew

mona   January 28th, 2008 3:30 pm ET

Obama can't have it both ways. He is changing his tone again now that he is moving on to other states where the majority of voters are not all black. In South Carolina, he was making statements about "pookie" and "ray ray " to vote for him and obviously they did. Imagine how the media would have dashed with that story if Hillary were to say "pookie" or "ray ray." There is a great double standard in how the media is treating Barack Hussein Obama and Hillary Rodham Clinton. The race card is being dealt one way. Race is only an issue when the Clintons bring it up, but Obama can use it to his advantage all he wants.

Steven   January 28th, 2008 3:24 pm ET

Veronica Lynne,

How did Toni Morrison dump Bill for Obama? The last time I checked Bill wasn't running!

Asian Voter   January 28th, 2008 3:23 pm ET

Why someone claimed that he is neutral and yet Criticized Bill Clinton to tone it down? If you are neutral, then you should keep it as you proclaimed. The gentleman I am talking about it Majority whip, African American congressman James Clydburn, pardon my spelling. Why don't Mr Clydburn talk about Obama for misleading the public by quoting Martin Luther King's "I have A Dream" speech in his speech? When the Clinton camp dismissed Mr. Obama that he is no Martin Luther King, then the Obama camp attacked the clinton camp for critizing Martin Luther King thus inciding the race issue. Mr Obama is beginning to show that he is presidential, by flip flopping the issue, twisting the fact and causing confusion among voters. On another issue, when Mr. Obama quoted Ronald Reagan for transforming the democrats with an idea that needs to be looked upon, then he claimed that it wasn't what he meant. Very presidential indeed! I can see that the Obama camp's strategy is to use the race card by attacking the Clinton camp on race issue, when the Clinton camp responded, the Obama camp achieved it goal, bringing out angry African American voters to vote for him. Very sly!

gina   January 28th, 2008 3:20 pm ET

Hillary Clinton in 2005 was given an excellent rating equivalent to obamas for her support of civil liberties. The NAACP in 2005 rated her at 100%. Now the African American Community is ready to drop her many years of supporting civil liberties and treat her like she is some kind of backroom racist candidate. This is so unforgiving. Al Sharpton, Clyburn, Bill Clinton, Obama's campaign and even greater the media all took part in the negative events that occurred in South Carolina. The Clintons are bearing the total responsibility. This is obviously the greatest distortion of all.

stefan   January 28th, 2008 3:14 pm ET

CNN IS NOW THE NEW FOX WHO WILL ALWAY REPORT UNFAIR NEW. SHAME

Gloria, San Francisco, CA   January 28th, 2008 3:14 pm ET

The fact that Morrison used race in her endorsement of Clinton and a bunch of stereo types to boot makes it a racial issue. He was the closest thing to a black candidate in her opinion. Her saying that her endorsement of Obama is not racial seems disingenuous to me. She can endorse whomever she wants and I am glad that finally a black man and woman are on the ticket…it does make a difference. Our history is witness to it.

I think Obama has a powerful message and at the beginning I was on the bandwagon too. But, it has become nothing but more political rhetoric to me. I would not vote for Ted Kennedy and I have not voted for Barbara Boxer since the early 90's.

Being a white lesbian with a black girlfriend (who is a registered Republican) just gives me a different perspective. I grew up poor in a very diverse neighborhood and though I was still in grade school, I was excited that a "woman" named Shirley Chisolm was running for president.

Of course, I will vote for any of the three standing Democrats who wins the nomination, but I will vote for who I feel is the most qualifed candidate at the primary, Hillary Clinton.

Call me a racist or call be ignorant…I vote and have my opinions, nothing more.

Jenna   January 28th, 2008 3:13 pm ET

HE'S NOT BLACK!!!!!!!!!! HE IS NEITHER BLACK NOR WHITE, HE IS BOTH!!!!! WHY DOES HE KEEP REFERRING TO HIMSELF AS AFRICAN-AMERICAN? IS HE SHUNNING HIS WHITE SIDE? IF SO, WHY? IF HE AIN'T PLAYING THE RACE CARD, WHY DON'T HE REFER TO HIMSELF AS AFRICAN AMERICAN/CAUCASIAN? GIVE ME A BREAK.

I KNOW PEOPLE NEED CHANGE, BUT I REALLY DON'T THINK OBAMA IS EXPERIENCED ENOUGH TO HANDLE THE MESS THIS COUNTRY IS IN. THINK LONG AND HARD ABOUT YOUR CHOICE. AT THE END OF THE WEEK WHEN YOU NEED THAT PAYCHECK, OBAMA WON'T REALLY CARE. HE'S NEVER BEEN POOR AND HAD TO STRUGGLE LIKE MILLIONS OF AMERICANS ARE DOING TODAY. LET'S BE CAREFUL NOT TO HAND THIS THING BACK TO THE REPUBLICANS FOR 4 MORE YEARS. REMEMBER HOW MUCH BETTER THE CLINTON YEARS WERE ECONOMICALLY.

Steven   January 28th, 2008 3:11 pm ET

Nobama,

Please explain Iowa, if you can!

Hill is Prez   January 28th, 2008 3:06 pm ET

Love the Clintons in the past, present and future.
Clintons forever!
Obama never!

sks   January 28th, 2008 3:05 pm ET

Please, everyone, stop with all of the racially-charged talk. We are a better people than that.

When it comes to the democratic candidates, there is very little difference among them on the issues. If you don't believe me, look at the candidates' websites or read the candidate profiles here on CNN or any other reputable site. So, nobody is voting "on the issues" in the primaries. Instead, people are voting for the candidate who strikes them as most experienced, has the most integrity and most able to lead the country. Some people think that Clinton is more experienced (although probably nobody would say she has much integrity). Many other people, myself included, don't think Clinton really has any more relevant experience than Obama. And more importantly, we believe that Obama is the better choice because he has integrity and the ability to inspire and bring the country together to actually get things done.

Regardless of how much experience you think Clinton has or how important you think it is that she is a woman, Clinton would have a harder time getting elected because not only would independents and republicans be unlikely to vote for her (they will vote for Obama) but she is detested by at least half of democratic voters, many of whom would rather vote for a republican than see the Clintons back in the white house. That's just the way it is. And if you want to see a democrat win in 2008, you should keep that in mind.

And even if Clinton could somehow win the general election in November, her polarizing personality and all the Clintons' baggage will prevent her from making any progress on any of the issues that the voters in the democratic primaries all seem to agree on. (Remember the first time she tried to get universal health care?) So, if you actually care about the issues, please vote for Obama – the only one who can unite the country to get it done.

Scott, Royal Oak, MI   January 28th, 2008 3:05 pm ET

Here's what Kathleen Kennedy Townsend said while endorsing Hillary:

"As a woman , leader and person of deep convictions, I believe Hillary Clinton would make the best possible choice for president"

AS A WOMAN?!?! So, let me get this straight, Morrison endorses Obama on the basis of his unique creative energy and wisdom, noting that race had nothing to do with it, and Clinton supporters say she's a giant racist. Kennedy Townsend comes out and specifically says she's supporting Hillary because she's a woman, and that's a complete non-issue?

J   January 28th, 2008 3:03 pm ET

AT THE END OF THE DAY WHO WILL BE READY TO TAKE ON THE OFFICE OF PRESIDENT ON FIRST DAY AND DAY AFTER? HILLARY R. CLINTON, ENOUGH SAID. I CAN SPEAK ON BEHALF OF SOMEONE WHO GRADUATED FROM A HBCU IN THE SOUTH. CLINTON'S SHINES NO MATTER WHAT…AS YOU CAN ALSO SEE ENDORSEMENTS DO NOT MEAN A HELL OF BEAMS. CASE IN POINT, OBAMA GOT THE LARGEST ENDORSEMENT FROM THE CULINARY WORKS IN LAS VEGAS AND HE STILL LOST THE PRIMARY!!!

Stop the Madness   January 28th, 2008 3:02 pm ET

Right Scott from Royal Oaks, I guess you believe everything the "unbias" media puts out there? I am not a Clinton supporter, in fact, I support Obama, but I have been blasting the media (from my sofa) ever since they started talking abou how shocked they were that white Iowa voted for Obama and the 50% AA make-up of the SC voters. THEY STARTED IT. I just wish we could stop blaming the Clintons – that's exactly what the media wants.

Jean   January 28th, 2008 2:59 pm ET

I like Barack Obama. I like Hillary Clinton. However, I am astounded at the role the media is playing in the US election. Observing the presidential nomination race from Africa, it is discomforting that so many journalists appear to have forgotten the basics of journalism. To all intents and purposes substance has been thrown out the window. It appears to boil down to Barack is good and Hillary is bad. Barack can do what he likes and get away with it. Everything Hillary does is greeted with cynicism, etc.
I'm just waiting for the article on Barack being able to walk on water!

Oliver   January 28th, 2008 2:58 pm ET

If there is anything racist here it is the fact that certain black celebreties feel they have to endorse based on skin color rather than qualification – well, it's good in a way, so one knows whose books not to buy and whose shows not to watch …

holly   January 28th, 2008 2:54 pm ET

Past vs. Future

American's unite!!!

Obama 08

J   January 28th, 2008 2:53 pm ET

First of all, for all you who love Bill Clinton so much, Hillary is not Bill. You seem to think that by electing Hillary, you re-elect Bill. That is short-sighted and stupid. secondly, the comments about Obama's lack of experience and age, Obama has as much experience in what he's done for people politically as Bill did when he was elected, and he's older than Bill was. Billary will not be the next president. Either Hillary or Obama will fit that tite.

sm   January 28th, 2008 2:52 pm ET

I hope that people will soon, very soon use some logic and see that Obama doesn't have enough experience to run a country and can't even seem to explain how he would run anything. All he keeps saying is "new change". If he happens to make it in the running for presidency, I'll vote for McCain(figuring he'll be the one for the republicans.)I've always voted for her would be the best to serve our country, and I firmly believe it is Hilary. I WILL NOT VOTE FOR OBAMA!!!!

Al in Wpg   January 28th, 2008 2:49 pm ET

Nobama = racist. plain and simple.

dee   January 28th, 2008 2:45 pm ET

Newburgh, IN Man

Bill Clinton is like a double edge sword.

He is cutting in the wrong direction, hurting his own legacy. He did not cut at the GOP like that. HE just gave a definition of "is" LOL

But, who am I to judge. History will tell.

Hillary said the clintons help give African Americans 7,500.00 more dollars in 8 years in last weeks debate.

That less than the cost of living. She should have kept that stat. All people deserve more.

If we can allow Bush fear strategy to work

We as Americans should be ready for change

Obama 08

Brandy   January 28th, 2008 2:45 pm ET

With Bill's comments about Jesse Jackson and race while he campaigned for his wife (or himself?) in South Carolina, I'm beginning to wonder their loyalty to black voters. Were they only using blacks to maintain the White House in the 90's? Are their true colors shining through now? Hillary nor Bill should believe that blacks, whites, hispanics, asians or native americans owe either one of them anything! Don't underestimate the power of A vote, no matter whose skin it comes from.

I appreciate Barack's humbleness with the Clinton's racial stabs. Heck, the Clinton camp is digging hard for crumbs [on Obama] and that's the best they can do. Ha! WE, One Nation, need a change in our political system and government. Clintons move out they way and allow someone else an opportunity. You've gone from the governor's mansion, to the White House, to a cozy NY senate home. Period. You've come to the end of the [political] road.

Go Obama!

Jasira   January 28th, 2008 2:44 pm ET

The Black community overwhelming gave Bill Clinton our vote, Al Gore our vote, John Kerry our vote. For someone to say now that they are ashamed, ASHAMED, that Black people have exercised their right to vote for whomever they please and have decided this time that they want to go for Obama is unbelievable. We don't owe Hillary Clinton the office, nor do we have to justify why we believe it okay to vote for the Black male running or prove that its not about race. We are not the ones who don't vote for people who do not look like ourselves.

And even it Blacks were voting for the Black male for precisely that reason who's to argue with that. Its funny how the same people that have actively prevented many minorities & women from gaining government office and consistently vote for white males over and over and over again (how many Senators are women or persons of color) now want to act appalled that other people also vote for who they like, feel comfortable with, and think will help their own agenda.

young   January 28th, 2008 2:40 pm ET

Mr. Bill Clinton did many things for black people and he has many black people as his friends, but Mr. Obama wanted to see Mr. Clinton dance first. Whatever you did to black people you will never be accepted by blacks if your skin’s color is different from theirs.
Mr. Obama is a racist himself.
Besides, John Kennedy had 12 years senator experience before being a president. What about Obama? 3 years. Obama always said to help poor people to get job, to help senior with better health insurance plan. Then where and how to get money? If someone don’t know how to get and save money or don’t have the ability to manage money, will you want him to be your company’s CEO and will you believe that this guy’s promise to raise your salary?
SO I DON”T BELIEVE OBAMA IS THE RIGHT GUY TO BE A PRESIDENT.
I don’t care racist, I don’t care politics. I do care someone can make American rich and powerful like year 1992-2000.
Obama’s fanatics, it’s economy stupid!!
VOTE HILLARY for your pocket. GO HILLARY 2008!!!

Ruth   January 28th, 2008 2:31 pm ET

Joe, the most irresponsible president the US has ever had name is spelled BUSH. And, Gloria, what if it is about race – Obama is both black and white – which race do you object to?

scgail   January 28th, 2008 2:28 pm ET

To Paradise
Your sentiments are very articulately stated. I agree except with the conclusion. Michelle Obama is not president. And eloquent thought Barak Obama is, he is not the most qualified.

DH   January 28th, 2008 2:28 pm ET

What Obama has done except his beautiful speech?

What has he done during his three years of his sentor tennure?

If he hasn't really complished anything during his current job, can you expect he can do things different in a more complex, chanlleange job? I doubt it. I just don't trust to put my life into his hand.

Lyndsay   January 28th, 2008 2:28 pm ET

Hillary is the way to go… she has the experience and a vital resource that is Bill Clinton. However you feel about her, you must remember that the Clinton years were prosperous for our nation. Bring em back…

david, tx   January 28th, 2008 2:26 pm ET

for some, it is and always will be about race, and/or gender. Americans like me who fully supported the clintons were recently disgusted by the latest Hill/Bill Show because it was an adolescent display, followed by a very unpresidential hillary composure on national tv.

no one that i know in the black community rubber-stamped obama. he earned his respect in the midst of this media controversy, and held his ground and maintained his dignity. what did hillary do? flee? cut & run? decompose? and after a primary…gee whiz hill…what will happen if something threatening to our country comes our way? whatever will you do? call barack?

i want a prez who can stand tall in the face of controversy and under scrutiny. i want a candidate who has experience to get thru the fire, and not run away or fold under pressure.

and so, like every other black american i know, i was torn between hillary and barack until recently. if felt like a win-win. however, in the past few weeks the clinton campaign has shown us a glimpse into the family that we never wanted to see…. and then we saw barack act very presidential and really listened to him, again.

we seek unity. to date, no one has stepped up and opened the doors cross-culturally and economically for all, and allowed every american to take part in our birthright.

so thanks hill/bill for showing us that with you guys, it's just more of the same 'ole story.

many are like me, who just simply want to be American….this is what defines us.

for those who insist on making the race about race, go away and stay stuck…or go back to the past where you will be welcomed with open arms.

America will transcend with or without you.

Nobama   January 28th, 2008 2:25 pm ET

Obama's big win in SC is nothing but a laughing stock. Pick any black man from the street and make him a candidate, he will sure win BIG in SC. Don't tell me I'm racist. It's the fact that many of us in this 21 century are still primitive.

dee   January 28th, 2008 2:24 pm ET

Hillary had to return 800,000 to her LA donar?

How soon we forget.

Former Senator Edwards missed 90% of his votes while a Senator. This was brought out in 2004

Obama is getting better prepared by his own party.

Sling it Hillary and the Backlash may cost Dems the presidency in November.

Hillary is aware of who is bringing the vote out. Her base will not be big enough to get her in office.

Obama's base of voters have change the map of elections.

Obama 08

Paradise   January 28th, 2008 2:21 pm ET

I am a male uncommitted supporter, I saw something that I have never saw before in a black/white man/woman; clear impartiality. I hear a lot of garbage about the voters voting for Obama because he is black. So thats the reason behind calling Bill Black. Black voters made Obama the black guy, because New Hampshire and IOWA made him the white guy. So because women vote for Hillary she is a woman and because white people vote for her she is white.
To me they are neither white nor Black, I love a strong woman " LOVE " and I also respect a genuine person. I wish they were together on this both Barack and Hillary as one force for change. But because its not likely going to happen I will chant for hope, unity and inspiration.
These things are the foundation of the American way; if you look back at the change that has already taken place. Hope and Emancipation are more so evident now more than ever and If that is not what the 2 best candidates for presidency stand for, then maybe the real president is somewhere over Texas testing some space age aircraft and scaring everyone but the cellphones and camera holders.
I will encourage all to vote for life, unity, hope and the American dream. Women, I think Michelle Obama is going to get a shot of fighting for you too if Sen. Obama is elected.
There Goes Race and Gender

Ken, Suitland MD   January 28th, 2008 2:20 pm ET

Hey, akm: "sometimes it seems that the Clintons take the public to be idiots". Well you and your fellow dems who continue to bad-mouth the Clintons are proving them to be correct. You guys are as bad as Rush and Rove trying to perpetuate unproven charges…..in fact you are just mimicking the right wing idiots. Now that's a very proud position to be in.

No one is claiming Hillary or Obama or Bill to be perfect. You don't get this far without some baggage. But for fellow dems to continue the right-wing lies is pathetic.

You dems, who think this or that candidate can bring about this nebulous thing called "change" by playing nice, are way out of line…..and it is why the party has lost elections in the past. Get your head out of your butts! Take a look at the [R] race and how they attempt to eviscerate themselves by labeling each other as democrats, or as cooperating with democrats. Do you think these [R] candidates, and their congressional [R] bretheren, and THE WING_NUTS WHO ELECT THEM, really want to be bi-partisan and cooperate with the next [D] president???!!! If so, you are naive fools. This is a battle for soul of our country, and the right-wing is holding on like a dog playing with a sock. We're going to have to hit them over the head if we're going to get our country back. They are not going to let us play fair and balanced and Mr/Mrs. nice person politics.

Its hard to believe we dems. could loose come Nov. But I'm afraid its possible. We have a great set of candidates, but there is a looney-toon fringe within [D] voting public that can't see the forrest for the trees. You better be voting on the platform and policies 1st, and person 2nd, otherwise you could get what you deserve: Bush III. And that truly would be pathetic.

Chris, Orlando, FL   January 28th, 2008 2:20 pm ET

does anyone really give 2 cents about this?

Mark   January 28th, 2008 2:18 pm ET

Jay, please pull out of your cognitive Siberia, and stop sounding like a broken folk record.

If you don't see, what Mrs.Clinton's own handlers see about her husband and have instructed & advised her about, then your caving into your own emotional projection.

GO OBAMA!

The Observer   January 28th, 2008 2:18 pm ET

Sorry but I've never heard of this woman.

Alan   January 28th, 2008 2:17 pm ET

I am still waiting to hear what wonderful things Obama has done for Illinois. Whats the record there? This a high school popularity contest. Nothing more, nothing less. I feel sorry for Americans that will make a decision on their vote by listening to celebrities, other politicians, or authors.

evelyn   January 28th, 2008 2:16 pm ET

Awesome,

OBAMA for president.

From Texas, Hispanic Support all the way.

Sylvia   January 28th, 2008 2:14 pm ET

How pathetic are all of you people out there thinking the CINTONS turned this into a "race" issue.
Coward OBAMA cried and the media ran with it and now he has everyone believing Bill yelled RACE
you all are FOOLS!!!!!!
you will get what you deserve a HALF-Black president that makes you feel GOOD
to hell with what is RIGHT
we need to vote for "who" is RIGHT not what gender or race they are

Jim   January 28th, 2008 2:13 pm ET

Billary is a step backwards in time… that won't solve anything.

Mike, Atlanta GA   January 28th, 2008 2:13 pm ET

According to the US government, the race of the child is decide by the race of the father. Or you can use the "One Drop Rule" which states that as long as there is one drop of black blood, then the child is considered to be black.

Has anyone read the piece on Michelle Obama. Apparently she is campaigning more and is constantly referring to growing up "black and poor." She is constantly using her race. Is this not a form of race-baiting?

I think Bill is right, the media seems to turn a blind-eye when Obama does something wrong and tends to persecute the Clintons.

SD, NY, NY   January 28th, 2008 2:12 pm ET

This is getting rediculous; 8 out 10 CNN articles are about Obama. Hardly ever positive. It is so clear that CNN is backing Obama.

Ann   January 28th, 2008 2:10 pm ET

There is nothing great about Obama who has admitted that he used cocaine and is tied to a person that was just indicted for criminal activity? There are much more qualified candidates for President, including other African Americans.

Angie   January 28th, 2008 2:09 pm ET

Dave C from New Jersey. I agree with you 100%. I am black and my husband is white and I am completely turned off by the Clintons. I was initially supporting Hillary but after the way she has conducted her campaign I am now supporting Obama. I've spoken with other members in my family l who are life-long Democrats both black,white and Asian yes we are a multicultural family and they are all supporting Obama.

Troy-Boston   January 28th, 2008 1:59 pm ET

I have to say; typically I get really upset from the ignorance some people demonstrate in here, but not today. Today, I find this ticker absolutely comical. Why is everyone responding to Gloria's comment? There is about 175 other posts that people can reply to, or just simply reflect/comment on the article. This just corroborates exactly what I thought all along- All the Obama supporting posts come from two or three people who change names (volunteers for the Obama campaign???) At first I found it to be extremely bizarre how the context of ALL the Obama-supporting posts is exactly the same, at last I can comprehend why.

Andrea   January 28th, 2008 1:57 pm ET

Mr Obama will possibly be ready with more time and experience. Not now.

Wisdom should be a factor, not eloquent speeches. Any one can look good presenting an eloquent speech. You folks need to wise up and quit pointing the finger. None of us is without mistakes.

Our Best to Senator Clinton.

Leah, New York, NY   January 28th, 2008 1:57 pm ET

This is only about race because people keep saying it's about race.

Personally, I find it insulting that so many people think blacks are voting for Obama only because he is black like them. It's an insult to their intelligence. It's like saying white people only vote for white people because they're white. With that type of "logic," I shouldn't be interested in this primary at all – where's the asian candidate? After all, since it's all about race, I should only care about the election if there's an asian candidate. Heck, I guess then I should be voting for Clinton, since she's a woman… just like me!

Except I'm supporting Obama. Because, like so many people in this country, I'm making an educated decision based not on who is the most superficially similar to me, but who I think can turn this country around and make it the great country we all wish it to be.

scgail   January 28th, 2008 1:55 pm ET

January 28, 2008 1:40 pm ET
Your comment is awaiting moderation.

The primary season started out on a note of optimism with the first woman, the first African-American and the first Hispanic to be considered viable candidates in an election. Now, that it is getting closer to choosing, the media is having a field day. It shows partial clips over and over. It baits the public and the candidates to give comments so it can then show sound bites; the American public deserves more.
Reading the comments above it is clear that sexism and racism are alive and well in California.
Sherrie is right Hillary has had Chris Matthews call her a she devil and even stated that white men thought it was time for a black man to be president. (Sexism and paternalism towards blacks at its height) Hillary has worked hard in the Senate and earned the respect of her peers from both parties. She has presented a clear vision with real solutions. While I respect Sen Obama and think his message is inspiring, I have yet to hear his solutions. Where is the substance?
Oh, why is Michelle Obama's August comment about Hillary not keeping her house in order not mentioned?
I am proud to support Hillary Rodham Clinton for President of the US.

scgail   January 28th, 2008 1:53 pm ET

Maybe you do not like my support of Clinton, you never post my comments. Is this an elitist blog

Rodney Dallas, TX   January 28th, 2008 1:50 pm ET

Super Tuesday:

You know maybe an African American actually is the best candidate. No one complained when blacks were voting in excess of 85% for Bill, Al Gore, and Kerry. Do I sense some self hate?

ChristianH   January 28th, 2008 1:49 pm ET

Okay, so OF COURSE the Clinton supporters will say that this is a racial issue and is insifnificant and Hillary doesn't get "enough coverage"(which is a load of garbage, because until Obama won Iowa, the media gave her 2/3s of their time). For the record, there has already been significant coverage of the Tony Rezko issue, and don't try and play it off like it wasn't. I would also never say that the Clintons are racist, and, frankly, neither has Barack Obama, that's a lie brought about from quotes taken out of context. What was an issue, for me, was Bill Clinton trying to dismiss Obama as "the new Jesse Jackson", a title which, let's face it, is more than a little condecending of both individuals (Obama and Jackson).

All that said, I can see how this might not be a significant endorsement for most people. English majors (like me), certainly. I'm actually in the middle of reading Beloved, and it's an extraordinary work of literature deserving of note. The general public (unless they're members of Oprah's book club), probably won't see this as a big deal. I think the reason this is such an important headline at the moment is because it's at the same time as Ted Kennedy's endorsement, which wasn't long after John Kerry's endorsement, not to mention several unions throughout the Super Tuesday states, and it just seems like the endorsements are getting piled on.

Has this become a racial issue? Yes. But it is not a result of the Obama campaign, who actually see race as a negative in their chances of winning. The Clinton's wanted Obama to win the black vote and lose the white vote in South Carolina (many political strategists pointed this out in the days before that primary) so that they could marginalize his victory as a fluke of racial politics, ignoring the fact that, while Obama lost the white vote, less than 1/4 of SC is black, and therefore it's still somewhat representative of many areas of this country. Will this affect the nominating process? I certainly hope not, just as one would hope that people wouldn't vote against Hillary because she makes a big deal out of being the first woman president (she does, and it's the same thing as what people are accusing Obama of doing, and it's totally hypocritical).

Unity   January 28th, 2008 1:49 pm ET

I am happy for Senator Obama (this takes nothing away from the Clintons). I hope all this "race" thing ends. I find some of the Obama supporters (including the media) here to be very mean spirited. I wish they would quit with the "race" – the media kept talking about it at nauseam. Now they are talking bout the "latino" votes.
You people aren't the people he wants to support him – he wants people who believe in unifying all, not tearing down.

I like both candidate and I will support whomever wins the nomination. UNITY is the answer.

Raymond   January 28th, 2008 1:47 pm ET

I guess I am atypical of blackness. I was born in a 2-parent household and drove my own car, which I worked a summer to pay half of, my senior year of high school.

And what does all that have to do with anything?

Gabby   January 28th, 2008 1:44 pm ET

It's so unfortunate for Obama that for the mere fact that he's black, he's screwed either way. If he was white and everything else about him was the same, I wonder if there would be such a public disturbance about him. The late, great Martin Luther King must be weeping in his grave to see that after all these years Americans have stil not "got" it. He's [Obama] right…the status quo HATES change and will do anything in its power to squash it by any means necessary. Keep fighting Barack…the World is watching and waiting with great anticipation to see if some form of respect and dignity will be restored to America in our eyes.

International Spectator

Tam/Stone Mountain   January 28th, 2008 1:43 pm ET

I am not sure how the endorsement of Kerry, Ted Kenndy and others work for Obama's campaign. Obama is trying to get Republicans to vote for him and I think this will make them think again. Morrison should be allowed to vote for who ever she wishes. Isn't that the American way.

I must say that to blame the Cllintons for injecting race into this campaign it totally incorrect. Even before the Iowa caucus Black Radio- Tom Joyner show dedicated a show about the support of black woman to Hillary's campaign. The question was "How come black woman can not support a black man". Clinton at that time had almost half the support from the Black community and something needed to be done to change that. So it started, blame the Clintons for any comment they make and inject a racial meaning.

I must say that I am ashamed of my community and of CNN for falling for it. The Clintons have done many thing for our issues and they deserve better than this from us.

Hillary you have my vote!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Bob, Dallas   January 28th, 2008 1:43 pm ET

Gloria, the Knights are calling!

Mr DE   January 28th, 2008 1:42 pm ET

BUT here the latest total of delegates and supper delegates:

Hillary 230 vs Obama 152 vs Edwards 61

Wait next 2 key states NJ and CA, not to mention the rest on Supper Tuesday.

Margie Alabama   January 28th, 2008 1:40 pm ET

Go Obama,
These people endosing you they know what they are, this country needs you.

scgail   January 28th, 2008 1:40 pm ET

The primary season started out on a note of optimism with the first woman, the first African-American and the first Hispanic to be considered viable candidates in an election. Now, that it is getting closer to choosing, the media is having a field day. It shows partial clips over and over. It baits the public and the candidates to give comments so it can then show sound bites; the American public deserves more.
Reading the comments above it is clear that sexism and racism are alive and well in California.
Sherrie is right Hillary has had Chris Matthews call her a she devil and even stated that white men thought it was time for a black man to be president. (Sexism and paternalism towards blacks at its height) Hillary has worked hard in the Senate and earned the respect of her peers from both parties. She has presented a clear vision with real solutions. While I respect Sen Obama and think his message is inspiring, I have yet to hear his solutions. Where is the substance?
Oh, why is Michelle Obama's August comment about Hillary not keeping her house in order not mentioned?
I am proud to support Hillary Rodham Clinton for President of the US.

Toby   January 28th, 2008 1:39 pm ET

Maya Angelou supports Hillary Clinton!

Clinton voters   January 28th, 2008 1:39 pm ET

I hear a lot of Clinton supporters say they are democrats and will vote republican if Obama is the nominee. I love it. You go right ahead.

I wish they would take a survey of the fraction of Hillary supporters that would vote republican rather than for Obama and vice versa.

Dai in IL   January 28th, 2008 1:38 pm ET

Watch out America, Obama is coming across very much like Tony Blair did in 1997 when he conned the UK Electorate into voting for him. The Teflon coating is there for a reason and it didn't take long for Tony to become Bush's poodle in the Iraq fiasco. Style or substance?

Hillary for '08

Shane, NY   January 28th, 2008 1:38 pm ET

Obama Inspires people and the Clintons don't. Clinton made a comment calling Obama a kid. You don't call a grown man that's a senator a kid. It's just like calling someone a boy, and we know what that refers too. I could be wrong but it's very suspicous, and i'm a fan of Bill Clinton. Morrison is respectable author that has accomplished a lot in her life. Can people read her quote instead of just making ridiculous comments on race. There has been a record turnout because I think Obama inspires people and I don't think there is anything wrong with that. He has inspired Democrats to come out and vote, even one's that don't vote her him. I think this is an exciting race and we should enjoy it while it last. Having different views on issues is a positive thing for our country. I think people should do some research before they vote and learn the facts. Obama had a bad land deal. Obama donated the Resko contribution. Clinton has some shady stuff in her past. No one is squeaky clean in life. I'm sure you guys that are so judgemental don't live a perfect life.

Janet White   January 28th, 2008 1:37 pm ET

The nonstop media attack on the Clintons did not elicit even one peep of protest from Senator Obama. That tells me he is a coward with abysmal ethics.

It is a shame that Senator Kennedy has seen fit to divide the party before super Tuesday. I can only hope that vote now becomes a super Obama smackdown because he is no longer worthy of the vote I was going to give him if he became the nominee,. Of course, I probably no longer need to worry about that since the Kennedys have crowned him and we have heard the innaugural speech. Why bother with an election ever again. CNN MSNBC et al can just tell us who will move in to 1600,

Sam   January 28th, 2008 1:36 pm ET

it is funning to watch all these politician run to announce that they are for the Obama.
Do,nt be fooled this is like marking their spot .They are scare that the media will start focusing on who is not backing Obama and that can be read as if they are against the idea for Black President.
it is not support for OBAMA but security for themself!

Jim   January 28th, 2008 1:36 pm ET

Let's call it what it is…Bills third run!

California voter   January 28th, 2008 1:35 pm ET

Do you really think that either side would admit to playing the race card? I doubt it.

Just remember you are voting for a President, not because of an endorsement, but because you believe that the person has the qualifications to deal with the issues/problems facing our nation, key among them our economy, health care, the environment and Iraq. Who will stand up and be counted on to work on solving those problems.

Saint Paul   January 28th, 2008 1:34 pm ET

I like Obama but I wont vote for him. I dont trust Hillary at all. I'm a Democrat that has never voted Rep. but Ron Paul has stole my heart. Go Ron Paul !you have my vote no matter what. Since they pused out Dennis Kuchinich your the one true last hope for the me! We need dramatic change.

David   January 28th, 2008 1:33 pm ET

James,

The fact of the matter is Obama did inject race into the race. His campaign chair said Hillary never cried about Katrina victims, his campaign released a memo calling Hillary's MLK comparison and Bill's "fairy tale" comments racist when they clearly were not. The good it does him was evident in South Carolina and in the media coverage when continues to try to paint the Clintons as racists. Obama supporters are explaining away this memo right now, but believe me the GOP will not let voters forget about it.

It may win him the Democratic nomination, but it is dividing the party and will not work nationally. He won among white men in New Hampshire. Since race became an issue, he has lost among whites in the every state, and is still losing among them nationally.

That memo opened a can of worms that may well be the undoing of the Democratic party. What a shame from someone who was supposed to be a uniter.

Sherry   January 28th, 2008 1:33 pm ET

Bill L.

The word "experience" did not appear anywhere in my blog.

OKAY   January 28th, 2008 1:33 pm ET

Here is what's interesting. If a white Clinton former supporter goes with Obama it's not racial, but if a black former supporter does now all of a sudden its a race thing. Why can't black people have the same view as the many white people who have changed
James you make a very good point.

nimu81   January 28th, 2008 1:32 pm ET

I lived in the US for 7yrs and on returning home, have been following the race to the white from the other side of the world, and I have to say it's quite interesting to watch…America definitely has some issues when it comes to the race factor. I think people should stop trying to explain their position by using their race as a point of reference. What I mean is that anytime you give your opinions(and rightly so) and then go on to mention that you are white/black./green or whatever, it gives the impression that you are going against the grain of what other members of whatever race you've been placed in, by default or otherwise, would do. As if that in itself is such a big deal.
Well its not, and until you stop making it a 'deal' (big or small), americans, be they well known or not, and who just want to vote/show support for their guy or girl , will always find themselves no matter how good their intentions 'racially explaining themselves' and the rest of us going along with it, because like it or not, you're wondering right now whether I'm black/white/latino/asian/…the list goes on.
So get over it America (easier said than done) and do the right thing for you as the country, AMERICA and not as black/white/latino/asian america

Good luck to all the candidates,

PW Va   January 28th, 2008 1:31 pm ET

I am a female African-American baby boomer 100 % committed to helping get Senator Obama first as the nominee for the Democratic party and then elected President.

My first reaction to Gloria's comments was just like everyone else's…anger…but then I thought…what a sad commentary on her own life she's presenting to all who read the postings on this blog, that she's not evolved any further in her journey of life than the color of a person's skin. Sadder still, is that there are many others like her out there.

However, that being said…Senator Obama represents to a great many of us (and by that I mean every race, creed and color) the salve that is needed for this nation to get past our own fears and renew and re-energize ourselves in reshaping our nation into once again truly being the greatest and most blessed nation on earth.

And it all begins with HOPE.

Mr DE   January 28th, 2008 1:31 pm ET

When Obama won Iowa, the media made a big news and momentum for Obama.
When Hillary won Michigen and Nevada, It seems the media care less….NO MOmentum fro Hilalry.

When Obama won Sout Caolina, again the media made a BIGGER news and bigger momentum for Obama.

Here is agan when States/or Gov. or news papers endorses Hillary, you dont hear a thing, but when someone (even many people dont know much that person) the news every where.

When 60% black voters voted for Obama, the media make a big news.
When 90% white voters voted for Hillary, we dont hear a thing.

SO who are those media?

notevenfordogcatcher   January 28th, 2008 1:30 pm ET

James, I have been preaching that same truth and that is the SOLE REASON WHY TED KENNEDY is endorsing Obama, he like many people have realized what Conservatives have been saying FOR YEARS, the Clintons are NO good hicks who will do or say anything to gain power.

They and their surrogates have been dividing by race and gender when they realized Obama had across the board support:

Mark Penn
Andrew Cuomo
Bill Shaheen
Robert Johnson
Bob Kerrey etc, etc. etc.

Bill Clinton sleeping during a sermon at a black church, insteading of stating that Al Gore etc, etc also won SC he says that Jesse Jackson also won SC, he and the surrogates have done everything but call Obama "articulate" oops, Billyboy did use that coded word……………

I am a Conservative who would be more worried running against Obama because as a CONSERVATIVE I can SEE THE APPEAL that he has.

Hillbilly and all their scandals PAST and PRESENT can be easily googled for the campaign ads against them.

It's a vast right-wing conspiracy, it's a vast left-wing conspiracy, the "boys were hard on her", the media is biased…………………………………….

NO candidate is perfect or without some skeletons, but some have more skeletons and dead bodies than a medical office (See Clintons – Foster – Willey).

This is fun Hillarity.

George from Minneapolis   January 28th, 2008 1:30 pm ET

To say that blacks only vote for Obama because he is black is like saying the only reason whites vote for Clinton and Edwards is because they are white. Insulting.

Blacks fought and died for the right to vote and to complain about their vote because they don't vote for who you think they should makes you seem rather small. Your lack of regard for blacks is obvious. I would like to think that in 2008 we would be moving away from such thinking.

Did you ever think that perhaps blacks are voting for Obama because he is talking about issues that effect their everyday life ?? Perhaps, just perhaps blacks are voting for Obama for the same reason the people in Iowa, Nevada and New Hampshire voted for him. They feel he is the best candidate.

If you question if Obama is the best candidate… close your eyes, listen to the other candidates then listen to him.

If you are still not convinced and want someone with more experience, ask yourself, "what has any of the other candidates done of significance politically?"

ITS CLEAR OBAMA IS THE BEST BET FOR AMERICA

angelina_ MN   January 28th, 2008 1:30 pm ET

To Gloria from SF and people who use race and other poor coments:
everyone has the right to choose and vote, here, so allow for that. It is OK, that the clintons do bad politics and politicas as usual, and it is also OK, for Senator Obama and other SEnators to do politics in a way that are guided by the people for the people.

To continue insulting some of Us because of gender and race, it is very sad as it appears you have learned nothing in your long/short life.

At least be respectful_ I know that the Clinto followers will do whatever and say whatever to get the Clintons to power. This is what they do, that is they way to do politics.
Wake up the rest of the developped world operates different, things have change, we need new people people with fresh ideas, with future, not the old ways…….. not the monarchy, we had enought of the same for many many years…
Regardles of your party affiliation, race, economics, gender and other…….one needs to look at:

Clinton, Bush, Bush, Clinton (BIllary) Clinton (Chelsea)

is this what our country needs????????????

JK Powell   January 28th, 2008 1:29 pm ET

Wake up America! This is our chance for change! Vote Obama!

d   January 28th, 2008 1:29 pm ET

thanks votehillary2008. I was trying to remember the racist remark Obama used.
Since they would Bill C in the drain, I wonder what they'll bring up about Ted Kennedy. HMM!

We need a leader !! GO HILLARY

Nadira, Toronto   January 28th, 2008 1:29 pm ET

Can someone tell me what have Mr OBAMa (the black candidate) have done for the Blacks.

Tyler in Raleigh   January 28th, 2008 1:28 pm ET

So being African American is about liking McDonalds and the sax? I never did understand that comment…..

I support Obama over Clinton not becuase of his race, and I do not think anyone should. Just as Clinton should get a vote becuase she is a woman. I am neither female nor African American, but I prefer Obama over her any day….. because he is about more than politics from fear and telling us what we can not do.

Fonz   January 28th, 2008 1:27 pm ET

The media and Mr. Obma's camp are trying to paint Hillary as a person bringing race into the elections but the truth is that Mr. Obama is the one that has brought race into this contest knowing very well if he is questoned he would label that questioning as a racist attempt.

Also, it is very sad to see that some latinos are trying to back up Mr. Obama without realizing that he will not help the latinos, if he wins which I doubt it very much, he will be a president for the black people first and he will be try not to antagonized the anglos but the latinos will suffer because he will not do anything for them.

The latinos should not vote for Mr. Obama because he is using the word "change" more often that the other candidates; any democrat that wins the White House will bring "change" to this craziness that Mr. Bush has made us live the last 8 years.

Carol   January 28th, 2008 1:26 pm ET

The ones screaming it's all about race, are the ones interjecting condesending and racist remarks.

To believe that black people are incapable of juding and voting for someone because of the content of their character, and for who they are is racist in itself.

The racial undertones that have been permiating the campaigns had been started by the Clintons, reinforced by their supporters and then perpetuated by the media.

anonymous   January 28th, 2008 1:24 pm ET

Just read on another website that Former Attorney Janet Reno has endorsed Hillary Clinton….guess we'll never see this on CNN!!!!!

Liliana Peterson, California   January 28th, 2008 1:24 pm ET

Inspiration, Hope and Imagination are not going to take this country out all the problems it has!! Hillary 08!

julie   January 28th, 2008 1:23 pm ET

HELLO CNN WHY HASN'T ANY OF MY COMMENTS BEEN POSTED.WHAT GAMES ARE YOU PLAYING NOW.IM JUST A HAPPILY MARRIED WOMEN WITH CHILDREN! WHO IS TIRED WITH THE BIAS MEDIA,YOU ARE TO REPORT THE NEWS FAIRLY. MY COMMENTS ARE NOT AS BAD AS MANY I'VE READ, SO GIVE ME A VOICE HERE.

Kiziton   January 28th, 2008 1:23 pm ET

America needs the women like Blessed lady Toni Morrison. Yes you really touched our soul by reading your endorsement to Obama. You are special woman. Without doubt, we, american people, are hungry for change. Therefore, Obama is the unique and only candidate who has ability to bring about change…. Yes, today is obviuosly Obama time, our time for change. We all thank God for His blessings, for Obama is our gift from God.
Kiziton

J. McCaskill   January 28th, 2008 1:21 pm ET

Hillary Clinton 08

Nick   January 28th, 2008 1:20 pm ET

This is the saddest bunch of bickering I have seen in awhile.

Obama won Iowa because of WHITE (And some black)people. How is that racist?

I am white, I am male. My significant other is white, female. We both voted Obama.

Hmmm seems as if there isn't just corn here anymore. Maybe some actual intelligence. I think people like Sherry and many other ignorant folk, aught to actually follow the unbiased, non racist approach that Iowa did.

Just my thoughts

Rick   January 28th, 2008 1:19 pm ET

DOES THE OBAMA CAMP NOT REALIZE THAT WE AMERICANS CAN SEE THROUGH THE O FACTOR? (OPRAH) SHE IS RESPONSIBLE FOR HIS RISE IN THE POLLS AND NOW EVERY AFRICAN AMERICAN WHO LOVES OPRAH (BY THE WAY I DO AS WELL) FOR ALL THE GOOD SHE HAS DONE WITH HER LIFE AND THE KINDNESS SHE HAS SHARED THROUGHOUT THE WORLD. BUT I TRULY DON'T THINK THAT OPRAH ENDORSING OBAMA IS CREDENTIALS TO RUN THIS GREAT NATION OF OURS.

DavidfromCA   January 28th, 2008 1:18 pm ET

Toni Morrison is endorsing Obama. Why am I not surprised? I am dying to see a press conference with Obama and another one of his supporters, Jesse Jackson. I'm sure Obama would rather pose for the cameras with Ted Kennedy. I guess Jesse Jackson is too liberal and seen too much of a liability for the Obama campaign. The only network airing Jesse Jackson's is Fox Noise.

John   January 28th, 2008 1:17 pm ET

Barak will talk with any despot but wouldn't come to Michigan to campaign. He didn't even sign a simple form to allow Michigan voters supporting him to write in his name.
When MSNBC took back their debate invitation to Dennis Kucinich I didn't hear major protests (if any) from Senator Obama.
Everybody in the Ready Reserve saw "change" but most probably didn't see it as a good thing.
(not the other John is this blog)

Chrissy, TX   January 28th, 2008 1:16 pm ET

If this isn't about race why keep mentioning "first black president ". Hillary is white and a female, but you don't hear "first white female president". The bottom line is the biased media (CNN, MSNBC, and FOX), pundits, and people who just don't like the Clinton's get a joy out of bashing them. I am not saying they are perfect, but who is. Everyone keeps saying to the future but yet all those Clinton haters won't let get go of the past. Nobody can question Obama's record because it becomes a race issue or he's being attacked, but yet everyone can criticize Hillary and nobody even mention's Sen. Edwards. If this is the case why do we have these primary debates or presidential debates for. I used to like Obama, but the more I see how all these biased network's and people continue to attack Hillary it diminishes his self worth as a candidate. I don't see how he can "unite" this country when you saw 80% of South Carolina's votes came from blacks. What does this tell you, that part of the country went backwards not forward because of race. Let's do this country a great service and vote for a candidate that one feels is qualified for, not based on his or her race, gender or political stance. Don't let the media or people who have so much hatred for a person or person's that they can't let go of the past and look to future make your choice. GOD BLESS AMERICA!!!!!!!

Farrell, Houston, Tx   January 28th, 2008 1:16 pm ET

I personally don't care who Morrison endorses or what ethnic group she represents it's not important. For those of you who read Morrison's books, for the life of me I don't understand them. And for one to quote her belief that Bill Clinton was the first black president, how can anyone understand her writings.

John Lennon   January 28th, 2008 1:14 pm ET

Imagine saying that President John F Kennedy was just a dreamer, too young and did not have enough experience to be a president? Imagine saying MLK was too young and just a dreamer? No, just like Obama, they were able to inspire a nation. This is what was meant by Morrison. Something like this does not come by that often. He will be able to inspire and bring people together.

I know this is hard to see for some people and it may be tough for some women since they want to see a women president but this is a great opportunity for America. Again, someone as inspiring as Obama will not be seen for a long long time. Don’t miss this one!!!

Its not what your country can do for you but what you can do for your country!!!

votehillary2008   January 28th, 2008 1:14 pm ET

Obama uses race when it's to his advantage, i.e., "Tell Pookie and Ray-Ray to vote for me." Then, he tries to dismiss race when it's not to his advantage.

Keep believing in fairy tales, Obama fans. If he gets the nomination he will lose in the most lopsided race in history. White America will never pick a black man to lead this nation. Mitt Romney will be the next President of the United States.

John   January 28th, 2008 1:13 pm ET

"The Clintons" are the punchline of a multitude of jokes and nothing more!

It is rather difficult to ignore the backing of so many influential and articulate Americans.

Obama '08!

Spencer   January 28th, 2008 1:12 pm ET

Thanks, Toni…however, I am confused about your definition of "rare integrity". As in, someone who votes "present" over one hundred times in the Illinois Senate? C'mon people endorsing Obama: start using some critical analysis skills instead of getting transported by the lofty rhetoric!!!

MIKE NEW JERSEY   January 28th, 2008 1:10 pm ET

I am so proud to know that I am not being fooled. I hope they give O bama the nod. John Mcain is going to have a great time with that fraud.

I have talked to a number of politically connected Democrats and every single one is adament that they will not even consider voting for him

You loser Liberals are fooling yourself.

John Mcain is going to dice

your Liberal poster boy!!!

please nominate him!!!! The Republicans are panting at a chance to expose that clown.

Mike, Land O Lakes, FL   January 28th, 2008 1:09 pm ET

Bush-Clinton-Bush-HilaryClinton-JeffBush-ChelseaClinton-Bush'sDaughter-Chelsea'sSon!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! You go figure!!! Anyone but these two families please!!!!!!

Emma   January 28th, 2008 1:09 pm ET

It's not about race? But who can tell me why 80% black support Obama while only about 20% white sopport him? who play race card in SC?

Anyone BUT obama

KYLA ATLANTA,GA   January 28th, 2008 1:08 pm ET

To James…..

You made a great point, thats exactly the Clintons strategy…..I heard that on Rush's show…he said the same thing and hes a conservative….go figure…..

Scott, Royal Oak, MI   January 28th, 2008 1:07 pm ET

James @ 12:56 pm: You are EXACTLY on point.

It boggles my mind that people suggest that Obama is playing the race card here. He has a very strong track record of NOT using the race card and deflecting focus from his race.

Sadly, the Clintons tactics show that they can just make stuff up and it will stick with some people, who do not take the time to become actually informed…

MJC   January 28th, 2008 1:07 pm ET

Why are people minimizing the efforts of Jesse Jackson when he is compared to Obama? Jesse started the "rainbow coalition" and had ideals very similar to Obama's.

But now Obama supporters want to distance themselves from any reference to Jackson, as if he was "too black."

This is a true shame, and perhaps is more "racial" than anything that the Clintons have said.

jeremy,Tx   January 28th, 2008 1:06 pm ET

If you people still think race does not matter, look at the polls now, and the polls during the election.Give me a break. Blacks will support blacks. Look who is supporting Obama. Kennedy knows Obama will win, it is part of his political strategy to stay in office, that is why he is promoting him. I guess I am the only one who realizes this. WOW

California   January 28th, 2008 1:06 pm ET

"You've been hoodwinked. You've been had. You've been took. You've been led astray, led amok. You’ve been bamboozled." – Malcolm X

"They're trying to bamboozle you. It's the same old okie-doke. Y'all know about okie doke, right? … They try to bamboozle you. Hoodwink ya. Try to hoodwink ya. Alright, I'm having too much fun here. … " – Barack Obama

Independent Voter   January 28th, 2008 1:06 pm ET

What are all of you Obama fanatics going to do when Hillary wins the nomination?? LOL

Of course most of you have threatened to either not vote or vote Republican. Yeah, that makes sense, how stupid to think that way! Another 8 years of Republican control.

Lindsay   January 28th, 2008 1:06 pm ET

Do celebrity endorsements really affect votes? While I’m sure the candidates are grateful for the support, I honestly question whether endorsements by celebrities or other politicians have a positive impact…

goel   January 28th, 2008 1:06 pm ET

I am amazed at the race discussion in this election cycle; feels like a developing country where political parties often play race and religion cards. This is new to US. In my opinion, the charm of US being above all that has vanished. Economy is in doldrums, image is critically damaged (thanks to president bush) and so on and on…

I am voting for Hillary and not because of her race or anything, but only because Obama has not proven himself. I am not aware of his accomplishments in his political life. Neither I have seen substance from him in his election campaign. All I have heard is his potential to be and that is too big of a risk. If others believe differently, I am all ears as I still have a fews days before I vote for Hillary on Super Tuesday.

JB Boston MA   January 28th, 2008 1:05 pm ET

All you ignorant people who claim blacks are voting for blacks and whites for whites, THAT IS SIMPLY NOT TRUE!!!

70% of whites age 18-25 voted for Obama in SC. In NH, a State that has 9% Blacks Obama did very well. Stop guessing what is happening and do your research. EVerything Obama has said about uniting is coming true.

The problem is that Hillary is attempting to amnipulate white voters into voting for her. It isn't working and will not work!

Al in Wpg   January 28th, 2008 1:05 pm ET

no, I don't know that, just thought it was funny.

Trece   January 28th, 2008 1:04 pm ET

I want to know, was it about race in Iowa?I had not made a choice until I listened carefully to each candidate;debates and personal research. When Obama won in Iowa the Clinton's showed their true colors. Obama did not lash out, instead he answered questions and set the record straight about what he stood for with integrity. Obama is not winning with just the black vote! Oprah Winfrey backs Obama and it is not about race. The sooner we get over race issues the better we will all be!!!!!!

charlotte   January 28th, 2008 1:03 pm ET

Not about race, HUH! I guess when she had all the nice things to say about Bill, she didn't think there was ever going to be a black man smart enough to run.

Ohioan   January 28th, 2008 1:02 pm ET

black folks are given too little credit. we have the ability to make decisions based on merit and not skin color.

while i acknowledge that clinton may have more experience than obama, she is simply too polarizing to be an effective president.

E in WI   January 28th, 2008 1:02 pm ET

Why Blame Obama because he inspired 80% of the Black vote in SC. Is that his fault? He has inspired many of all races. Just because People don't want to vote for a candidate that is half black or a woman, doesn’t' make them racist or sexist. We live in a country that allows us the freedoms to choose. My vote will go to Obama because he makes me believe in the Government again, unlike Hillary. If a candidate gets an endorsement it is scrutinized by another candidate’s supporter? That is crazy. Before being a politician, an actor, or even a writer…..THEY ARE AMERICAN. They have the right to chose. If the media chooses to follow that story it is on them. I believe Obama is as qualified as Hillary. He believes in hope for our nation. That was all our founding fathers had…HOPE. Most people know Bill and Hillary are not racist. Bill knew what his undertones would do though. That is why we have so many people debating who is placing the race card. You can have fun dwelling on that, I will think of what can be and hope for a bright future for our country.

d   January 28th, 2008 1:01 pm ET

Another OPRAH?!!!!!!

Sherry   January 28th, 2008 1:01 pm ET

When a black person supports a white person it's never seen as race BUT if a black person supports a black person then it's about race. Amazing.

JohnS   January 28th, 2008 1:01 pm ET

There are many, many things that I do not understand about this country; consider the following:

1. Our current president can't make an effective speech, we need a president who is articulate.

Now that we have Obama, all I hear is: "well, he may be good at making eloquent speeches, but there are no substances to the speeches."

2. Our current administration had lied to us; they are corrupt. So, we need someone to clean up the mess.

Now, we want to return to the years of the Clintons, even though during their tenure, this nation was noted for lies, sexual scandals and so on.

3. Our current administration had divided this nation with hate and greed.

Now that we have such an opportunity in Obama, we say he is BLACK, lacks the EXPERIENCE and so, even though we know fully well how Hillary had divided the Senate, New Yokers, and is doing so right now by now even respecting the RULES of the democratic party.

Most democrats, like growing up kids, really do not know what they want. Such individuals should probably not be give the opportunity to participate in such an important process.

JB Boston MA   January 28th, 2008 1:00 pm ET

The Clintons introduced race into this campaign. The African American population is 18%. Why would Obama try to make this a race issue?

One example of the Clinton's bringing race into the equation. . .

Bill Clinton saying that Jesse Jackson won as well in SC. This was clearly an attempt to belittle Obama. And if you listen, his comments had nothing to do with the question!!!!

Yankee   January 28th, 2008 1:00 pm ET

Carl Roves," divide and win" seems to be working well now.

lanos trebreh   January 28th, 2008 12:59 pm ET

Dear Bill and Hillary, I've had the greatest respect and admiration for you during andd after your tenure as Presidents (2for1) of the united states and I supported your 2008 candidacy at the beginning of the caucuses because I honestly believed you would be good for America and the world, because of your past record and because there was no one else better for the position…. until Barack Obama convinced me otherwise. I love you both from the bottom of my heart but your time is over, you've already had your cake; we need to move forward, and you (and Bill) have shown that this will not be the case. You will not unite this country, you have only one wish, one driving force, the lust for power. This is unfortunate, but it's not entirely your fault, it's simply the way you are. And now you and Bill are prepared to destroy a man's character and influence people towards seeing this man as incapable because of his colour… If you continue this way you will lose any respect and admiration that your presidency produced, and remember this, if you continue this way and you get the nomination….. YOU WILL NOT WIN…. McCain is no Bob Dole.

John, Kansas City, MO   January 28th, 2008 12:59 pm ET

Pround Dem:

"Bill Clinton wasn't born poor. He drove his own car in high school." That is some masterful logic…what a non sequitur! So what if he drove his own car in high school – poor people can't own their own cars? Now if he drove a rolls-royce, that would be different. And even if he did drive an expensive car in high school, that doesn't indicate that he wasn't born poor 16+ years earlier.

Obama / Paul 2008!

Rob   January 28th, 2008 12:58 pm ET

sorry to burst your bubble Rick but Gen X will see to it that HIlary is shown the door after Feb 5…we are adults now…its our time now…The Clintons were during my parents era…Obama is my Era and its our time now…

Hilary Clinton is a joke..

DC in IA   January 28th, 2008 12:57 pm ET

Prediction:

Obama wins primary and general elections and by the mid-term election 2010 we are longing for the days for Bush and Cheney

JB Boston MA   January 28th, 2008 12:56 pm ET

As a very famous actress once said and Hillary is now saying, "I'm melting, I'm melting"!!!!!

James   January 28th, 2008 12:56 pm ET

To all of you people who are somehow convinced that the Obama campaign has deliberately played the race card as a way to improve his political position in this election, I really wish that you would stop pretending that you know what you're talking about.

What good does it do for Barack Obama to inject race into this nomination fight? I don't know if any of you have ever noticed, but being designated the "Black Candidate" has never resulted in wide-spread success. Jesse Jackson ran as the "Black Candidate" and won some primaries, especially in the south. But he never really had a serious chance at the Democratic nomination. Al Sharpton's campaign never even got off the ground.

However, if you're running a campaign against an African-American who is establishing a broad coalition, and you get your clock cleaned in a state that's 94-98% white, what do you think is the easiest way to marginalize his campaign?

Turn him into the "Black Candidate"

KIKI   January 28th, 2008 12:56 pm ET

I just have one simple question to those who think race is the issue in this primary among democrates.
What if Obama was white and is having majority support of Blacks and Hillary was Black and is having Majority support of white voters. What would you say?
Race is still an issue?

sickofitalready   January 28th, 2008 12:54 pm ET

So Obama has the support of Mr. Kennedy? Since when do you call that a shining endorsement? The overall split of the democratic party will just give the republicans another 4 years in office. Is there really any candidate be it black or white, democrat or republican really qualified to be running? at this point you can roll them all together and you still don't come up with someone worth voting for. So where does that leave you? i guess you would fall on, race, gender, backstabbing blah blah blah

ginny   January 28th, 2008 12:54 pm ET

Excuse me, as a non-American I have a question. Why is it that Obama is always referred to as "black"? Isn't he half white? If he were 1/4 black and 3/4's white what would he be? Is there a switchover point? You people are helplessly divided in any way you possibly can be, good luck.

What-Who?   January 28th, 2008 12:54 pm ET

Morrison backs Obama… Wow, what a surprise!! LMAO…

Barb   January 28th, 2008 12:53 pm ET

My husband and I are long time registered Democrats. But in the actual election in November we will split our vote if there is a more qualified person running on the other ticket. We will be voting for Obama this year because we feel that the future of this country's survival will depend upon the decisions that younger canidates are able to make. We are firm believers that the people in congress need to be purged out of there and new fresh people with new ideas for the future of this country replacing them. The country belongs to the younger generation and they need to take it back. Our government today is stagnated with old ideas and no one to that wants to change them. We are ready for a new tomorrow. Go Obama Go.

Sarah L, Fayetteville, AR   January 28th, 2008 12:53 pm ET

JJ:

Can someone please explain to me how Obama is using the race card? Is it because Bill Clinton and his wife's supporters made several comments about race? Because, to me, and I took the time to actually listen, it appeared as though the Clintons were playing the race card.

By the way, I'm a white woman supporter of Obama.

Margaret D   January 28th, 2008 12:52 pm ET

Its all about RACE that is how black people like to appeared like the VICTIMS,anybody who falls for it need to wake up

Paul From San Diego   January 28th, 2008 12:52 pm ET

It is tragic that this race has come to down to race for many people in this country. The media monster has found a way to cloud the issues by focusing on the exterior of the candidates instead of the interior. If we really look at the 2 candidates their ideaologies are similar in a lot of ways. Please don't think I am saying they are running the same campaign. I just think they both see the major issue affecting this country. Where they really differ is experience. If you take her track record you will see that her decision to back war at the beginning was based on a report that she didn't really read. Voting for the war was the popular thing to do in the Senate and she followed suit. This says a lot about her decision making capabilities. Who's to say that if she does get the presidency what decisions will she make then? This war has been the downfall of this administration and Obama saw that way back then. We need someone with the insight to see the truth and make the decisions that are best for this country. I am not picking on Hillary I am merely pointing out her flawed experience that everyone seems to be holding against Barrack.

Susan   January 28th, 2008 12:52 pm ET

Just finished early voting here in Tennessee and for the first time in forever I voted Democrat. The reason?? Obama He's like a breath of fresh air! If he doesn't get the nomination then I'll vote Republican. I wasn't overly fond of Hillary as a first lady ……the thought of her even having more power is just downright scary.

Karen   January 28th, 2008 12:51 pm ET

I don't care about this endorsement. I like the Kennedy endorsements. JFK the hawk and the Kennedy PARTY guys. Obama gets the elitist Dems and the college party crowd. Interesting mix.

rick   January 28th, 2008 12:51 pm ET

this will be mostly over by feb. 5. hiliary will win eventually. She is the right choice between all the candidates, republican or democrat

hillbilly   January 28th, 2008 12:49 pm ET

CHANGE? You want change??? What does that mean?

jess   January 28th, 2008 12:49 pm ET

Bill Clinton did not do anything for the economy. We had wealth because of the dot com explosion. That is where the good times came from! Good for Toni Morrison! Good for Ted Kennedy! Good for the American People.

OBAMA 08

Yes we can!!!

A White Woman for Obama   January 28th, 2008 12:49 pm ET

A- Morrison is an artist, a writer.
B- Our first amendment right is the FREEDOM of speech.
C- Ms. Morrison can say and endorse who she wants. And deserves respect for her brilliant writing and accomplishments.

Has the past 8 years of tis administration ruined us to the point where we call such a noble woman names for voicing her opinion.

America needs Obama.

ella   January 28th, 2008 12:48 pm ET

Whys Obama always referred to as black. He is half white and half black.
I never see any emphasis on his white side….its always black this black that.
I wish the media will back out of this. Its becoming a freak show. a black person cant back Obama because it will be considered racial…
Can we stop these comments and look past race and gender and start discussing issues. ITS TEARING US APART

Nadira, Toronto   January 28th, 2008 12:48 pm ET

i amexcited to see the american public coming out on the one sided reporting of the press!, Congragulation!, the press -especially CNN(which I was a big fan) seems to forget that it job is to report the news on both side and not be campaigning for Obama.
The Clintons are a lot of things – but the blacks have to agree , they are not Racist.

Bee   January 28th, 2008 12:47 pm ET

Why are you guys trying to do a RACE thing. One he is not totally black, he has a WHITE MOM!!!! Duh!!!!
I support Obama, not only because he is a great black man, but because the woman who raised him, was a wonderful WHITE WOMAN!!!!!

Charles   January 28th, 2008 12:46 pm ET

So why everybody are so excited? Today Obama showed one more time how far he is from the mainstream America – got an endorsemnt for another black person and liberal icon Kennedy!

Jay   January 28th, 2008 12:45 pm ET

Just because there is on pic of Hillary and Bill with Rekzo means NOTHING!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Nice try spinning that one Obama Cult members. How many pic do you think they took with people over the years??? Get over it.

Ann   January 28th, 2008 12:44 pm ET

What a big surprise! Give me a break. its starting to be so obvious! So you guys are forcing the race card and you should be ashamed you blamed this on the Clintons.
Shame on all people incapable to use their brains. And who was the African American reporter who said Morisson should apologize for calling Clinton "the first black president"? If she made a mistake once, what about twice?

Now.. sure, inspiration comes with the blues. Not that we don't need it, but its still the economy, stupid!

Hillary'08!

Tony   January 28th, 2008 12:43 pm ET

Voting for Obama just because he's black is ignorant. NOT voting for him just because he's black is also ignorant. Same goes for Hillary. I like both candidates. But I'm going for Obama, I just want something new, something fresh. I'v already done intensive research on the candidates. I would like to see a Obama/Edwards ticket.

ralph davis   January 28th, 2008 12:41 pm ET

America is a melting pot of many races, creeds, and ethnicities. Yet, we are all Americans. The issue of race becomes a volitle situation when one seeks to play on the fears, hatreds, and misunderstandings for the purpose of divisiveness. That old saying to cut ones nose off to dispite their face is the tackical use of race.
Martin L King said that one must be judged by the character of their heart not by the color of one's or gender.
If America is to regain its position as a true leader of democracy, it must reflect it in the way we treat our fellow Americans.

nadeem   January 28th, 2008 12:40 pm ET

Harry has lost all demographic groups except older white women.

She lost White men
Young women
Blacks

The Clinton tactics are having a big backlash with mainstream democratic voters for them racial equality was not a political tool, they meant it!

veronica lynne   January 28th, 2008 12:39 pm ET

CNN, please post my comment.

She formerly supported Bill as the "first BLACK president"..because to HER race matters, and she wants a black president even if she has to dub a white man as black (which was always silly).
Now, she has a chance to vote for the real thing, so she dumps Bill for Obama.
It's transparently about race for Toni Morrison so this endorsement means nothing.
Hillary (our 1st choice), or McCain in '08!

Mirta   January 28th, 2008 12:37 pm ET

Robert said:

"I have to agree. It seems to be turning into a race about race. Blacks voting for a black man and white voting for a white woman"

I agree and so do my family and my friends.

jw, canadian,ok   January 28th, 2008 12:36 pm ET

Dangit, I gotta get out more – who da heck is Toni Morrison?

Kimberly   January 28th, 2008 12:35 pm ET

2008 and it's still so sad. When will we see each other as Americans and not black, white, brown, yellow, etc.

Some of the comments on this blog are clearly coming from very ignorant people, with very low self esteem. Does it really make you feel better putting other people down based solely on their ethnicity?

Why do we hate each other so much…

And "StopwatchingCNN, Rochester, NY"-blogger. FYI, Toni Morrison is an award winning American writer and a Nobel Prize laureate…you under estimate your fellow Americans, we do read and more than 15% of us know of Ms. Morrison.

Obama 2008

Bill L   January 28th, 2008 12:35 pm ET

Sherry,
Hillar has no more experience than Obama. She would have a difficult time if asked to fill in the resume of her past "35 years of accomplishments." Even the Clinton Administration "successes" are tied to a Congress with a Republican majority for 6 years. She has no Senate bill that has become law in 7 years with her name on it as a drafter of the legislation. Solutions that she proposes would increase the national debt, not lower it. Her dislike of the other party would keep her from being able to negotiate successful legislation.

Obama offers a chance of change in the way politics work in Washington. And while you are voting, vote out all of the incumbants also if you really want change.

Harry, NY NY   January 28th, 2008 12:35 pm ET

Yes and Tony Rezko's money was given to charity.

What is still unclear is how he knows the Clintons. He does appear with them in a White House photo, between Bill and Hillary when he was president.

What you should be more concerned with is all the overlap between the contributors for the Clinton Presidential Library and Hillary's campaign. A lot of that money is from foreign governments.

I think Obama can get past all these shenanigans by the Clintons and have a real chance in the general election.

Lee   January 28th, 2008 12:35 pm ET

Folks – Obama is the man for NOW, regardless of race, gender, perceived experience. He is the one man who can take us out of this dark pit we've been these last 7 years.

Sarah L, Fayetteville, AR   January 28th, 2008 12:34 pm ET

To those who use the Obama/Rezko connection:

What about Clintons' photo with Rezko? What about all the questionable donors on Clinton's campaign? Be careful if you want to open that door. The Clintons have a whole storage building full of skeletons.

dee   January 28th, 2008 12:34 pm ET

Your right Hillary!

You do have more experience at voting the wrong way, costing us over a trillion dollars.

Hillary voted for war with Iraq
Hillary voted for war with Iran 2007 (She did not learn from Experience)
Hillary Economic Stimulus was off the mark, then changed it???

Obama's Stimulus plan was on the mark with Congress.

Hillary is now pimping the LAtino Vote as she was the Affrican Americans'. Now, South Carolina White and African Americans and some latinos have rejected her old status quo race baiting style of politics.

Besides her anti Democratic votes mentioned above, do we as a country want a divider or a uniter?

Who has the most to gain in either position?

Obama 08, the ((United)) States Candidate.

Look where we are now being divided in many ways.

Want more of?

Obama 08

Newburgh, IN Man   January 28th, 2008 12:33 pm ET

When you do a good Job you are commended for it, but when the Clintons do a good Job they get condemned for it…

Bill & Hillary— Thank you for the 90's "A JOB WELL DONE…" I Love you both & I commend you for your GREAT service to our GREAT NATION.

A NATION well respected internationally until you who was “SELECTED” to office

I am committed to both of you forever. Bill & Hillary forever…!

You all don’t know the value of a good this until you lose it.

All you traitors who had fun during CLINTON years and now you all are turning you back on them,

YOU HAVE NO SHAME, you USE the CLINTONS and now you join the “BASH the CLINTON” band wagon

SHAME… SHAME… SHAME…. On you ALL!!!

And that goes for you to CNN

Go Hillary, You Go Girl… & Bill the first “FIRST MAN” How sweet….!

Ha! Ha!! Ha!!!

BILL CLINTON IS MOST SUCCESSFUL DEMOCRATIC PRESIDENT IN RECENT YEARS SINCE KENNEDY

Shame on you ALL!!!

Super Tuesday   January 28th, 2008 12:33 pm ET

A spelling error- that should be "LOSE"

AJ, IL   January 28th, 2008 12:33 pm ET

All you die-hard Hillary supporters are delusional and have short memories. In November 2007, Hillary Clinton was leading Obama in SC polling by an average of 16pts. Obama's campaign fought hard in SC to gain on Hillary. After Hillary stumbled a few times that led Bill Clinton to play a dominant and negative role in her campaign, she really lost South Carolina Democratic support. Obama went into SC primary expecting to win by maybe 2 to 8 pts over Hillary, instead the voters rejected the negative campaigning of the Clintons and Obama won by 28pts over Hillary.

DR   January 28th, 2008 12:33 pm ET

Wow — big surprise there!

veronica lynne   January 28th, 2008 12:32 pm ET

This one is a no-brainer! She formerly supported Bill as the "first BLACK president"..because to HER race matters, and she wants a black president even if she has to dub a white man as black (which was always silly).
Now, she has a chance to vote for the real thing, so she dumps Bill for Obama.
It's transparently about race for Toni Morrison!
Hillary (1st choice) or McCain in '08!

Super Tuesday   January 28th, 2008 12:32 pm ET

I meant to say if 53% of the voters were Black and Obama got 81% of the Black votes then how could he loose? This is about race.

I can't wait for Super Tuesday. I am supporting Sen. Clinton all the way!

I know New Jersey will deliver the state to her !

Maurice Silva   January 28th, 2008 12:32 pm ET

Hill and Bill know very well what's at stake, as they have tasted the power, riches and comforts of the White House for two terms.

It's hardly surprising they are desperate and want the nomination by hook or by crook.

Maurice

Karen   January 28th, 2008 12:31 pm ET

Yes, Obama gives good speeches. I like his speech writer Jon Favreau. Favreau also worked for Kerry.

Scott   January 28th, 2008 12:31 pm ET

When is everyone going to wake up and see Obama for who he is. His speeches are intriguing but he has no substance. In every debate Hillary and John – when given the chance – pounce on him. They run circles around him by answering what they have done and what they will do. I, for one, have not heard Obama say anything. He side-steps every question. We have already had a President for the past 7+ years with no experience. Are we willing to do that again? When is the Media going to wake up? It seems Obama can do no wrong in their eyes. Hillary has to battle not only the candidates but the media as well. Wake up and make ALL 3 of the democratic candidates answer the same questions.

Super Tuesday   January 28th, 2008 12:30 pm ET

I am a 25 year old African-American male and if Blacks want to vote for a candidate based on "racial pride" then White must be allowed to do the same. I have no problem with that. The South Carolina was obviously a racial vote and that is the truth ! If 53% of the voters were white and Obama got 81% of the Black votes then what is that? People are just in denial, this thing is racial !

Whites also have the right to vote for a candidate out of "racial pride" and loyalty, since it seems like this is the game !

By the way, I am from New Jersey and will be supporting Sen. Clinton. My brother, who is also Black, lives in Georgia and he also a strong Hillary supporter.

Let us be honest, this is about race and what happened in SC is sad because people didn't vote on issues !

JJ   January 28th, 2008 12:26 pm ET

I deeply feel that Obama or his campaign using the black voter to high jack the democratic party…it is not good for democratic party and Republic will get the benefits from this in the general election…

OBAMA LOSE   January 28th, 2008 12:25 pm ET

AND WHO CARES?

OBAMAS going to lose

Na na nuh na na!

kevin from alaska   January 28th, 2008 12:25 pm ET

How come when a Bill Clinton supporter backs Barack Obama they all of a sudden become a "traitor." They realized it's 2008, not 1998, maybe others should also start taking notice.

Charles   January 28th, 2008 12:24 pm ET

I wonder, why CNN didn't mention the arrrest of Obama's fundraiser, Rezko? Is it ONN, now, Obama News Network paraphrasing Hillary-haters from few monmths ago?

Ward Fantroy   January 28th, 2008 12:23 pm ET

Someone, please help me with the math that contends that Barack won South Carolina with only 24 percent of votes from White people. The contention of MSM is that Barack's victory is not repeatable because, if only 24 percent of White voters are willing to vote for him, then he lacks sufficient support from White voters to win on February 5th.

I understood from the MSM that the vast majority of Black people in South Carolina are concentrated primarily in two specific counties. Yet, Barack Obama won every county in South Carolina except two. Tell me, how is it that Barack got more votes than the other two candidates in each and every one of the other counties, except two, and these counties were predominantly White but notwithstanding Barack only got 24 percent of the White vote. Maybe the real truth is that 24 percent of those who voted for Barack were White but substantially more than 24 percent of the White people who voted actually voted for Barack Obama. It is obvious that the pollsters are misreading or mistating their data.

Could it be that the real truth is that Barack won the majority of White votes in all of those other counties that were predominantly White? Can it be that those who continue to perpetuate the results of exit polls rather than the actual results of the voting are trying to mislead America about what actually happened in South Carolina. If Barack won every county but two in South Carolina, this must mean that he got a minimum of 34 percent of the vote in each and every one of those counties. Consider, also that John Edwards won only in the county of his birth, which appears to a county that is not heavily populated. Think how many White voters it would require in the other county that Barack Obama lost in order to obtain the result that the MSM continues to pronounce as the truth of the facts.

I am no mathematician but, it seems practically impossible for the MSM's claims to be true and we need to call them on this and make them state the real facts of the South Carolina election results. We cannot let the Clintons nor the MSM misrepresent and spin the truth of the South Carolina win so as to mislead people into believing that Barack's win was only a Black win. The facts appear to say something altogether different.

Due to the high turn-out of Black voters and their high support for Barack Obama, the percent of those who voted for Barack may have been 24 percent White; but Barack Obama undoubtedly got more than 24 percent of the White vote; and, it appears to me from the official results that he must have gotten more White votes than Hillary and Edwards in every county of South Carolina except two. If this is not true, then, somebody enlighten me.

O. B. Quiet   January 28th, 2008 12:23 pm ET

I would certainly vote for a Black candidate:
I would certainly vote for a woman candidate:

Like Condy Rice, for example.

Here's a news flash: The vast majority of Americans are not going to vote for a black man, no matter what liberals in NY and CA do.

Hillary cannot win unless she is running against Osama Bin Laden, and even then there are those who still hate her enough to stay home.

Romney will be our next President, its already been decided.

Thanks for playing.

OB

karen   January 28th, 2008 12:23 pm ET

I agree Jack. I am voting republican too if Obama is on the dem ticket. For some reason he is the darling of the media -note the biased reporting. Adjectives used to describe obama's actions/words are always laudatory and they use much harsher adjectives to describe clintons actions. And conveniently fail to report endorsements of Clinton. Who cares about the Kennedy's anyway. Teddy had his chance and blew it. I'd like to see what the republicans will do about Rezko and the obama's dream house.
BTW all u obama supporters remember what happened with previous media darlings – gore, and kerry? They didn't get v.far with the american electorate. So take heart Hilary 08 supporters.

Mark   January 28th, 2008 12:23 pm ET

"of those singular moments" — that will define democracy forever.

Obama forever

Kamil, Gaithersburg, MD   January 28th, 2008 12:22 pm ET

StopwatchingCNN, Rochester, NY

I fully agree with you. It's not only unfair to Hillary and Edwards, it's unfair to American people.

Ande   January 28th, 2008 12:22 pm ET

Attention Obama Supporters

Since Obama won South Carolina, the racists people out there are going to really start acting up. Just ignore them and consider the source.

Anyone who has done research on Obama, heard him speak, or hit his website would know that he is an honest man filled with integrity. They would know he has a vision for America that involves unity and non-division. They would know he really cares about the people of America. You can't fake a heart felt speech. And when he speaks, you know he is sincere and he is speaking from his heart.

The racist wants the opposite, they want division. They want the topic of race brought up again and again. They want you to believe all the lies about him. So they continue spreading lies and saying all manner of evil things about him to keep people from voting for him.

He message is pure and simple. The more unity there is in America, the stronger America is. Like he said, it's not about race. (He was raised by his white mother and white grandparents). It's about leaving the past behind and moving forward to the futue. A future of a better America.

He has my vote.

Edu   January 28th, 2008 12:22 pm ET

Obama is a Star!!! I tremble when I hear him speak. He will be loved by all Americans with time. He has my endorsement.

Paul   January 28th, 2008 12:22 pm ET

"Jay" = "Hillary Apologist"

Susan   January 28th, 2008 12:22 pm ET

Obama won Iowa…95% white..so that doesn't fly..

Doesn't Bill Clinton reminds you of the a guy we dated 10 years ago. We see him again..he is older, has a gut, big bulbous nose and won't shut up…and then we ask ourselves…what did I ever see in him?

So it's obvious MANY senior leaders in the Democratic party feel a Hillary and Bill presidency would be absolutely horrific for the country and the Clintons MUST be stopped. Here is another issue to think about. If Hillary wins we know it will be a co-presidency. The people who founded America thought about having a three person panel or an executive committee to run the country. They were afraid of one person having too much power. Ultimately they REJECTED THIS and instituted a system of checks and balances that would prevent that.

Another reason why a co-presidency was considered dangerous was because of accountability. Who is ultimately responsible? Hillary is elected but given their history of lies and deception..she could claim plausible deniability if Bill made a poor decision. In the past that has been a mantra of the Clintons..deny..deny..deny. For all of you are supporting Hillary you need to think this through. The Clintons are corrupt and would do great harm. Stop them.

Scott   January 28th, 2008 12:22 pm ET

All of Rezko's contributions (all $80,000 +/-) was donated to charity. For those so quick to attack Obama why don't you look up the name Norman Hsu who has donated over $860,000 to the Clinton campaign? Please don't start swinging mud at Obama because the Clintons have such a sullied past it won't be a fair fight. Keep pushing the experience vs, change fight.

kelly straub   January 28th, 2008 12:21 pm ET

Why don't we stop trying to pretend that race, gender, etc. aren't issues in this country? Any label can be positive or negative depending on how it is spun. the exact reason we NEED Obama is to bury the negativity and get closer to realizing we are different, wonderfully so… and also have a lot of commonality as well. Is that such a scary thing….? Enough, I say. Vote for whomever will heal this country, and yes, there are prominent voices whom we respect, but ulitmately vote for who you want to vote for–but make it an informed and educated vote.

Sean   January 28th, 2008 12:20 pm ET

CNN has a clear Obama bias and everyone knows it.

Connie   January 28th, 2008 12:20 pm ET

Google "NBC confronts Hillary with 'slum lord' photo"

Why did Hillary lied about Rezko? She and her husband have a picture posing with the man Rezko and when she was questioned by NBC…She quickly denied it . One can clearly see in her body language that she was lying and she is a complete mafia. HILLARY IA A CALCULATED SHARP LIAR!

I am not white American or African American. I am a citizen of the Unites States who has 4 children in the country with the right to vote. My youngest daughter is taking a major in constitution law hoping to serve the country one day.

suzy   January 28th, 2008 12:18 pm ET

CALIFORNIA IS WAITING FOR YOU HILLARY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

PLEASE CNN – STOP THE BIAS!!!!!!!!!! WHO DO YOU THINK YOU ARE???????

PEOPLE ARE VOTING ON FLUFFY SPEECHES AND RACE.
HOW CAN THAT BE DENIED.
I WANT TO SEE WHAT OBAMA HAS TO SAY BEYOND HIS FLUFFY WORDS.
AND ESPECIALLY WHEN HE DOESN'T HAVE THE TELEPROMPTERS IN FRONT OF HIM. I SAW HIS SPEECH IN GEORGIA SUNDAY, AND HE WAS FLIPPING PAGES IN HIS NOTEBBOK, AND IT WAS THE MOST BORING THING I HAVE HEARD. HE WASN'T INSPIRED, AND THE WORDS WEREN'T COMING FROM HIS HEART LIKE EVERYONE WOULD LIKE TO THINK. HE WAS READING THE SPEECH!
IT'S GOING TO TAKE A LOT MORE THAN THAT TO RUN THIS COUNTRY.

ARE WE ALL REALLY WILLING TO PUT OUR VULNERABLE COUNTRY INTO THE HANDS OF THIS MAN????? HIS SPEECHES WON'T SOLVE OUR PROBLEMS.
GO HILLARY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Micahel Guinn, Ventura, CA   January 28th, 2008 12:18 pm ET

A great endorsement- and typical hateful responses from the HRC supporters—The damage they are doing to the Democratic Party is immense.
There are Obama supporters who have been just as hateful in their responses. We need to realize this country can not handle another Republican administration! It's time for real CHANGE! Obama 08!

Steven   January 28th, 2008 12:17 pm ET

I have a question! Why is it now about race since a viable black candidiate is running (and doing well) or is it now about gender since a female is running and doing well. We have has 43 Presidents and guess what , there all have been male and white! Has it not been racial and gender based for over 200 years? Why the issue now? Ridiculous! Your are concerned when 80% of black Americans support for Obama and Hillary has the lion's share of females voters. Up until then 100% of the white vote went to the "white" candidates. How racial is that!

jess   January 28th, 2008 12:16 pm ET

I know this is a fun sounding board, but you do realize that this is just pundits yelling at pundits, don't you? No one is going to change their minds because of this board. You can take 90% of what people say about Hillary and Obama and just reverse the names to make the same argument. Get involved. Make phone calls. Get the info out past this board.

If you want ideas, just check out Obama's action section on his website :) . I suppose Clinton supporters can do the same (lame joke). Seriously though. Support your candidate through action, not just back and forth!

Holly, TX   January 28th, 2008 12:16 pm ET

No, anonymous, he actually didnt.

John   January 28th, 2008 12:16 pm ET

To "Katy, TX"

You wrote "I don't trust Obama any further than I can throw him. "

But you trust Bill Clinton? Please, help me out here. I don't get it!

BJ   January 28th, 2008 12:14 pm ET

Who gives a crap who these people endorse? When does it end? Chuck, Oprah, Barbra, Ted Kennedy, Caroline Kennedy, John Kerry, Peter Pan, Daffy Duck, etc. etc. etc.

And don't insult my intelligence by telling me that these black so-called "endorsers" don't favor race. They want a black in the White House so bad that they'd endorse a black toothfairy.

AJ - Montpelier   January 28th, 2008 12:13 pm ET

And I certainly hope that these awful people who are now leaving the Clinton's because they think they may have some advantage by endorsing Obama realize that Hillary Clinton wont forget these slaps in the face. If the black community wants to betray a couple who have always supported them, they deserve to get dropped and have the Clintons turn their backs on them. Obama will never be elected because most people see him for what he is, a racist, empty suit running on nothing but arrogance.

Marianne, NJ   January 28th, 2008 12:13 pm ET

America CAN NOT trust Bill and Hillary. The Clintons can spin their web of deceptions and lies and inject race into the campaign, but Americans are intelligent and know the games they are playing. We have not forgotten the scandals and impeachment of Bill Clinton. We know the Clintons are sleazy. In fact, they should do America a favor and disappear— forever.

Americans of all color, age, gender and income will unite and work together for a better country with Sen. Obama leading the way.

Sen. Obama for President 2008!!

Yes We Can!!!!!!

libral   January 28th, 2008 12:12 pm ET

I am expecting Hillary to ENDORSE Obama!

IndeInCa   January 28th, 2008 12:12 pm ET

Obama made Judicial Watch 10 Most Corrupt Politicians 2007.

Alex   January 28th, 2008 12:10 pm ET

I think one good question america should as themselves(most especially the blacks) if everything else remains the same with Obama and the only thing different about him is that he is white…will you still vote for him?

If you can answer that question honestly then you can tell if this is about race or not.

Hannah   January 28th, 2008 12:09 pm ET

For those who are pointing out that there are Republicans voting for Obama:

Did it ever occur to you that they're voting for him because they know he'll be easier to beat in the general election? They know that Hillary can win, but they can beat Obama even with the low approval ratings of the current President.

Hillary's been thoroughly tested over many, many years–they haven't got any dirt left to dig up on her. But there's a lot left that they can attack Obama with–Rezko is just the tip of the iceberg.

The Republicans WANT the Democrats to nominate Obama. They're just biding their time until the presidential election to release all the dirt they have on him so the Republican nominee will win. If we choose Obama as our nominee, we'll end up with 4 more years of the GOP. Just the thought of it makes me shudder.

Stacy Clarks, Texas   January 28th, 2008 12:08 pm ET

In reference to Rezko, Obama has given all money he contributed back, and has opened himself to research any money that comes from him, and has pledged to give that money back if connected to him.

OBAMA 08 AND 12!!!!

Bryan   January 28th, 2008 12:08 pm ET

Imagination does not equal wisdom……

It equall someone who when faced with a problem thier "Imagination" hasn't thought of, will only run and hide.

Obama is a fraud. I hope he gets the nomination so he can fail miserably and we'll just hand the country to another republican pupet. It's a whole lot better than giving it to a complete Noob!

d   January 28th, 2008 12:08 pm ET

Very interesting program on CSPAN2 (book review)

Politics
A Bound Man: Why We Are Excited About Obama and Why He Can't Win
Author: Shelby Steele

Maybe some of you Obama fans should read this !

George   January 28th, 2008 12:06 pm ET

Another fact to support my point about this primary is becoming race-based is that the support among whites for Obama is declining (from more than a third to less than a quarter now). Not even mentioning his support among Latinos and Asians.

Prosperity   January 28th, 2008 12:05 pm ET

If Mother Theresa were alive and supported Obama, all of you angry/bitter Clintonistas would probably say mean things about her as well.

Perhaps you would call her an old hag.

Clintonistas will say anything. You'all are downright frightening. You make the Republicans look dignified in comparison.

Johnny Boy   January 28th, 2008 12:05 pm ET

"Morrison backs Obama."

Of course she does! She's black!

NO to HRC   January 28th, 2008 12:05 pm ET

You won't be voting for HRC if she never gets the democratic nomination……go Obama

R in CA   January 28th, 2008 12:05 pm ET

anonymous – I believe Obama refused to accept Rezko's donation.

Jenna   January 28th, 2008 12:05 pm ET

Obama's mother was WHITE…so technically he is Caucasian/African-American. Technically he would not be the first black president! He would be a Caucasian/African American president. Right? Who would vote for someone based on their color? A racist.

veronica lynne   January 28th, 2008 12:04 pm ET

This one is a no-brainer! She formerly supported Bill as the "first BLACK president"..because to HER race matters, and she wants a black president even if she has to dub a white man as black (which was always silly).
Now, she has a chance to vote for the real thing, so she dumps Bill for Obama.
It's transparently about race!
Hillary (1st choice) or McCain in '08!

AJ in San Francisco   January 28th, 2008 12:02 pm ET

It's about race and gender just as much as it is — lots of people really are pulling to see the ultimate expression of the civil rights and feminist movements over the past five decades. They would feel very gratified to see all of their hopes and efforts realized.

This is people of BOTH genders and ALL races.

But if it were ONLY about race, then Hillary would win hands down, as African Americans are still in the minority in this country. The problem with this viewpoint (thank goodness!) is that many non-African American people are inspired by Obama, too. Just as many men like Hillary.

colorblind   January 28th, 2008 12:01 pm ET

LETS REFLECT: ON IOWA AND SC…. HE WON BOTH……… 96% WHITE STATE… HE WON… 52% BLACK STATE … HE WON……. IT'S NOT COLOR… ITS WHAT HE CAN DO FOR THE COUNTRY…… UNITE… UNITE…. UNITE…. AND BY THE LOOKS OF THIS BLOG…. WE NEED IT NOW MORE THAN EVER

THE ONLY REASON WHITES VOTED FOR HIM IS BECAUSE HIS MOM WAS WHITE…… SOUNDS DUMB DOESN'T IT

THE ONLY REASON HILLARY WON NH IS BECAUSE SHES WHITE….. ANOTHER DUMB COMMENT….

HOE DO YOU'LL DO IT…. AND WITH SUCH CONVICTION… GOD HELP US ALL

I HAVE TO THINK UP THESE DUMB COMMENTS AND FOR SOME OF YOU ON THIS BLOG….. IT SEEM TO COME AUTOMATIC…… SCARY

Perry, Los, CA   January 28th, 2008 12:00 pm ET

Ted Kennedy gets it! The race for the next President is and always has been the Democrats to lose. But the Democrat’s were going to risk it on a Hillary run. Knowing that she had Bill at her back. Bill had RELIABLE AA at his back. But the term UNGREATFULL comes to mind when analyzing the way the Clintons had been playing the Race card. The Clintons forgot that the AA does not need the Clintons. But the Clintons needed the AA community.

Ted Kennedy knows that the Democrats CANNOT win in 08 without the AA voters coming out strong on their side. Ted is doing what needs to be done to win at this point.

To ALL other Democrats with influence, NOW is your time to endorse Obama as well. Ted has given you political cover to do so. This should be done all at once so the Dem Primary race can be pretty much over on FEB 5th. The object was and is to get the Democrats back in the White House, NOT to get the Clintons back in the White House.

Mark   January 28th, 2008 11:59 am ET

Who is this Morrison? What log did she crawl out from under? They can say what they want: Her voted changed from Clinton to Obama because Obama has "real" black skin. They aren't fooling anyone.

C.Lo   January 28th, 2008 11:59 am ET

Jack , who cares who you are voting for?

B. O.   January 28th, 2008 11:59 am ET

On the radio Friday night, was a man saying that race should not be injected into voting choices, but we should vote Obama because it would show the world America is capable of voting for a black man. That is exactly the Obama campaign mentality. Don't vote race, but go ahead and vote race.

How about we vote on issues, please, everyone.

T.R   January 28th, 2008 11:58 am ET

I dont care who supports OBAMA. I don't.
I want a president not a preacher.

John from Katy, TX   January 28th, 2008 11:58 am ET

No, it's not about race or gender, if you take those 2 things away, the most inspiring thing about this candidate is that he shows that he can unite people & inspire people, a quality I just don't see in other candidates, he doesn't bring the same ole business or politics as usual back to the white house, I really don't want another 4-8 years of the Clinton era. The Clinton's served our country proudly, be thank for that, lets not mistake the fact that both of these candidates, Hillary Clinton & Barack Obama are historic in itself, the first female candidate & first black candidate….anyway you slice it, it's historic & a defining moment in our time. I can honestly say that for years I was turned off from politics, & that the only president I look upon fondly in our history is JFK. For the first time in my adult life I see a candidate that reflects upon the issues that are at hand, & that genuinely inspires me to get out the vote & promote his campaign to people that may not know him. Young voters especially have generally not participated in the past now show an interest in our political system that they never had shown before, this candidate inspires young people to get involved, & show a interest in our country's future, a candidate that they can identify with, which is something I never felt in my college years. As someone who is not black, but of ethnic minority in the US, I endorse Barack Obama, he is what this country inspires to be, he is what the American dream is all about.

James L   January 28th, 2008 11:57 am ET

Unfortunately this has become a race and gender issue on the Democratic ticket. … Whatever happened to picking the best possible candidate. … It could be that Obama is the best candidate or maybe it is Hillary. At any rate, when I take both race and gender out of the equation Hillary Clinton becomes the stronger candidate who gets my vote and I am a black male. … but you know what. … it does not matter the color of my skin or my gender. … my vote is not for sale to race gender or any celebrity endorsement. I choose to let the candidates speak for themselves. Not Oprah, Toni Morrision, John Kerry, Bob Johnson or even Bill Clinton can do that for me. … They are free to vote for whomever they like. … I just find it very surprising that these individuals feel it necessary to weight race or gender as if this is something new in politics. … Did any of them endorse Shirley Chisolm, Geradine Ferraro Jesse Jackson, or Alan Keys. All of these were history making cadidates. … so why were their voices silent then. … Shirley Chisolm had a very powerful platform. … where was your support then. …? Jessie Jackson also won South Carolina. .. hmmmm. ….

gilbert   January 28th, 2008 11:55 am ET

CNN did not print my anti-Morrison endorsement. I see that CNN printed comments more damaging to Morrison than mine. Anyway, I still say that the Morrison endorsement is worthless to me. Obama does not have what it takes. Go Hillary!

JDM   January 28th, 2008 11:54 am ET

For a moment, can we think forward. When I hire poeple to work for me, I look for people with talent, skills and the drive to deal with the world of tomorrow. My company has key people (older) in the rigth positions, however tomorrows power comes from the Y Gen. It is time for the baby boomers to past the keys.
Most remakes are worse than the first one. BUSH I- BUSH II. I do not want to see Clinton II.

CHERYL   January 28th, 2008 11:53 am ET

What a surprise the colors match!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! a lot of people are saying that the Clintons are playing the race card! Obviously people are willing to turn their backs on the very people they have endorsed in the past for someones color! If Obama gets the nomination we will end up with a republican again! I AM WITH HILLARY SHE CAN AND WILL WIN!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! MOVE FORWARD DO NOT LOOK BACK!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! HILLARY CLINTON 2008

Scott, Royal Oak, MI   January 28th, 2008 11:53 am ET

Here's what Kathleen Kennedy Townsend said while endorsing Hillary:

"As a woman , leader and person of deep convictions, I believe Hillary Clinton would make the best possible choice for president"

AS A WOMAN?!?! So, let me get this straight, Morrison endorses Obama on the basis of his unique creative energy and wisdom, noting that race had nothing to do with it, and Clinton supporters say she's a giant racist. Kennedy Townsend comes out and specifically says she's supporting Hillary because she's a woman, and that's a complete non-issue?

Susan   January 28th, 2008 11:52 am ET

I really don't understand all this hype about Obama being a "visionary" and an "inspirational leader." Yes, he is very good at making speeches. As far as I can see, this is the only thing he is any good at. All of his claims, his sentences, his so-called plans for change are extremely vague. I never get the sense that he has any idea how he would actually carry out the job of being President–all he does is repeat the same catchphrases again and again: Bring people together. Unite the country. End partisanship. This all sounds very good, but he never says HOW he will bring about this radical change. Anyone can SAY that they will solve this country's problems, but there is absolutely nothing in Senator Obama's record, or in his responses in various debates, that convinces me that he can DO any of this.

He's just getting a lot of mileage out of the fact that his delivery and speech-making abilities are remarkably good. All style, no substance. This is not helped at all by the extremely biased presentation of the media, which appears to be positively allergic to criticizing Obama in any way. Shame on you. You're cheating voters of their chance to judge these candidates objectively.

anonymous   January 28th, 2008 11:48 am ET

Tony Rezko was arrested this morning…didn't he make huge contribution's to Obama's campaign???

Jack   January 28th, 2008 11:48 am ET

And Obama tells us race is not a part of this election!!!! 80% of the blacks voting for him. Ok Hillary is not nice but why did they not vote for John Edwards, their own son in SC? Yes, you are right Obama, you are not winning with Black votes!!! If he wins nomination and runs against McCain, I am voting republican for the first time in my life, at least McCain is honest.

Kelly   January 28th, 2008 11:48 am ET

Did anyone ever actually READ the whole piece she wrote on Clinton? It was more about his impeachment scandal and how he fits racial stereotypes than some coronation of him as the first Black president.

This is important because she is aware of how her words were taken out of context, and she is endorsing him because she hopes it will be given at least the same weight as her prior words.

And if you think the Clinton camp isn't race-baiting, you are fooling yourself. Why else would he without even being asked the question mention that Jesse Jackson had also won in SC? This being the latest in a long thread of evidence. Don't buy into it–vote form your conscience and not from spin.

Kandi   January 28th, 2008 11:46 am ET

This is about UNIFYING a nation to a new level with a new determination to make a real difference here and in the world. I hope the other "Glorias" of the world will open their eyes to see, and hearts to really FEEL what is happening here. Goodbye to polarizing candidates! Goodbye to cynicism! Goodbye to old politics. It's a new generation; it's a new time and it's now! Join us. It really is exciting and contagious!

JZ   January 28th, 2008 11:46 am ET

Hey who said you can't learn from mistakes? :)

Sherry   January 28th, 2008 11:46 am ET

Why is Hillary so reviled? We as women are the fabric that holds this country together. Men in general, have deserted us, our children and our parents. We raised those men, coddled them, and stood behind them. Hillary has put up with all of their ribald jokes, attacks on her credibility, and their boiler room approach to the issues that this country faces. I see men who have worked in the senate against Hillary, why? I see men who have ran for president and lost, against her. I see great women of our time, against Hillary. I see Democrats who have never supported anyone, but the party’s nominee, against Hillary. We as women are afraid to say these things and I ask myself why. Never, in the history of a presidential race has the way someone looked had so much more import, than the way that person thinks. Her desire to be president is no more self serving than other nominees. I am tired of hearing, because he dares to give her what she gave him (loyalty), he is tainting his legacy. She has put forth real solutions to the economy, the war in Iraq, healthcare etc. She knows the nuances of her solutions and she gives details. The other candidates have no answer to Hillary’s real solutions, her intellect and her ability to stay on point in the face of such adversity. We will elect a woman for president. If this woman is not qualified, then, no woman ever will be. She is known all over the world. She has to be twice as good as all the other candidates and she is.

Scott, Royal Oak, MI   January 28th, 2008 11:45 am ET

Jack Berkeley, CA: I'm glad that you're ROFLOL at your jokes. That makes one of us.

Great call, insult Obama supporters for being young. We are young, but we're also statistically more educated than Hillary supporters (see Boston Globe, 1/13/08). Yes, we know who Toni Morrison is, thank you.

Andy- Fresno,Ca   January 28th, 2008 11:44 am ET

Hilary 2008!

Clinton Hater   January 28th, 2008 11:43 am ET

Stop your whining Gloria. What is wrong in an African American taking pride in their own. It is not about race. I voted for Clinton twice, Al Gore and John Kerry, and was not because they were white, it was because I saw them getting the Job done.

Obama is 46 yrs old, why is a black man competing for the high office and gaining endorsement and winning delegates because it's the delegates who will select the democratic nomination not bias or prejudice people.

You have republicans voting for Obama. Can Hillary do that? Rhetorical question.

frustrated   January 28th, 2008 11:43 am ET

i can see Bill Clinton's strategy is working out perfectly. Make Obama the "black candidate." The will shake the tree to see when the real bigots fall out.

He's a good candidate, as long as he isn't "too black."

you people are amazing…

John   January 28th, 2008 11:43 am ET

Regarding the prevous comment, "a white woman who could never qualify as president without riding the coat-tails of our former president. Without Bill…she isn't much." I guess you haven't paid attention during the debates. Sen Obama doesn't think on his feet to good.

Jim Russell   January 28th, 2008 11:43 am ET

Hey Gloria,

I disagree with you! We need a leader of people, not a qualified politician/bureaucrat.

Cathy, NY   January 28th, 2008 11:42 am ET

Once again, another traitor stabbing the Clinton's in the back, and ANOTHER Black person making a big deal out of backing their BLACK candidate! Who cares??? TONI is obviously a woman with no loyalty and suffers from reverse racism. Why aren't people talking about how racist the BLACK voters are against a WHITE woman??? Oh, that's right, Nobody is allowed to say anything that might hurt Baby Obama! Has anyone noticed that the Obama zealots who post here just have no grip on reality? They blindly preach all of the same talking points as the campaign does, but THERE IS NO SUBSTANCE! You CANNOT fix the country by "wishing on a star" and "hoping" for change!!! You people have NO IDEA how the Republicans would destroy Obama! You are all naive and delusional if you think Obama can wave a "magic wand" and suddenly EVERBODY will get along because Obama said so….THAT is the fairy tale!!!!! They are licking their collective chops at the prospect of having such a weak person to run against, because they KNOW how easily they can beat him. Hillary continues to prove her toughness every single day, especially with all the media-driven hatred of her. She is the only candidate who can take back the White House! HILLARY FOR PRESIDENT!!!!!!!!

Patrick Murray   January 28th, 2008 11:42 am ET

Poor Hillary, She is so desperate that she is now on the hunt for delegates even in states whose delegates wont matter.

John   January 28th, 2008 11:42 am ET

REgardins the prevous comment, "a white woman who could never qualify as president without riding the coat-tails of our former president. Without Bill…she isn't much." Iguess you haven't paid attention during the debates. Sen Obama doesn't think on his feet to good.

Parco   January 28th, 2008 11:42 am ET

This is to Gloria.
You say it is all about race, when she wrote the column praising President Clinton as the first black president you said nothing. Now you are claiming it is all about race. How did Obama win IOWA then?

David M.   January 28th, 2008 11:41 am ET

It is not about race. Yuo people don't see a person's strength with thinking about race. When a black persons endorses a black person, it is not about race, it is about qulaities that inspires the person who endorsed him/her. It is too bad that people in this nation still have the characters of a primite society.

Morgan   January 28th, 2008 11:41 am ET

Its not about race, its about book sales. If Morrison didn't retract or do something like this, she would have lost alot of her readers who are black.

GW   January 28th, 2008 11:41 am ET

So Gloria….why do you say it's about race? Just because Toni is black and supporting Barack? You do realize he is just as much white as he is black. You talk about qualifications….ask yourself why you think Hillary is more qualified? What about ethics? Good Judgement? Do you remember the White Water Scandal? Or what about this book "White Wash". If Hillary wins the nomination….all of the dirt of the past is coming up to haunt her BIG TIME!!

Scott, Royal Oak, MI   January 28th, 2008 11:41 am ET

To those of you defending the Clintons and arguing that they did not inject race into the campaign:

As various news sources are reporting, a key motivation for Ted Kennedy's decision to no longer remain neutral in his race was his disgust at observing the tactics of the Clintons and their campaign, particularly those which were intended to be racially divisive and paint Obama as "the black candidate".

This is a fairly bold move for a longtime friend of the Clinton family and proof that we are getting very sick of the type of politics of these two slimebags.

Clinton supporters, I beseech you to take a close look at the type of people you are supporting here.

Johnathon Akers   January 28th, 2008 11:40 am ET

No, it's not about race or gender, if you take those 2 things away, the most inspiring thing about this candidate is that he doesn't bring the same ole business or politics as usual back to the white house, I really don't want another 4-8 years of the Clinton era. They served our country proudly, & lets not mistake the fact that both of these candidates, Hilary Clinton & Barack Obama are historic in itself, the first female candidate & first black candidate….anyway you slice it, it's historic & a defining moment in our time. I can honestly say that for years I was turned off from politics, & that the only president I look upon fondly in our history is JFK. For the first time in my adult life I see a candidate that reflects upon the issues that are at hand, & that genuinely inspires me to get out the vote & promote his campaign to people that may not know him. Young voters especially have generally not participated in the past now show an interest in our political system that they never had shown before, this candidate inspires young people to get involved, & show a interest in our country's future, a candidate that they can identify with, which is something I never felt in my college years. As someone who is not black, but of ethnic minority in the US, I endorse Barack Obama, he is what this country inspires to be, he is what the American dream is all about.

Matt S   January 28th, 2008 11:39 am ET

I find it amusing that every time a black person endorses Obama, Clinton supporters say they are only endorsing him because of race.

eddy   January 28th, 2008 11:39 am ET

I don't get the point if you think is about race, and what about BET founder to support HC? Do you think he is wrong? No please!

Barack deserve for his qualification………..
and YES WE CAN…….!!!!!!!!.

DEWITT   January 28th, 2008 11:38 am ET

I am deeply touched by her way of expression about Barack. She almost made me cry. This is exactly what I feel about Barack. He is so unique, so special. He is our precious gift from the world. I am independent and I never felt this way about any of the cenadidates in both sides.

BARACK OBAMA IS THE BEST!

African-American in MD   January 28th, 2008 11:38 am ET

Unfortunately every Black person who endorses Obama will be seen as making a "race based" decision. I just would like to remind everyone of the THOUSANDS of White people who have supported this man thus far. I almost wish he wasn't Black because it some cases the color of his skin is overshadowing his message.

Brandy   January 28th, 2008 11:38 am ET

I am a fan of Toni Morrison's work, but this does in fact cause me to lose some respect for her as an individual. If you are supporting him because he is black, I would disagree with that, but could respect that you are at least admitting to it. But to pretend like that is not the reason is an insult to my intelligence. Why do you think Barack got 80% of the black vote in SC and around 100,000 more black voters turned out for this "crucial" election. Where were these educated, intelligent, patriotic black voters in 2004 when Kerry needed their support???? Interesting question….. very interesting…..but will never get a real and honest answer.

d   January 28th, 2008 11:38 am ET

Wow…. totally racist. What a fluke this presidential race has turned into.

rachel   January 28th, 2008 11:38 am ET

This is all so funny not about race as and african american female I can tell you it is all about race. Everytime I turn around I have on eof my "brothers" going come on sister are you with the brother. Its pathetic. I am voting with my heart and who I think can take care of the problems this nation has and for me thats hillary clinton. I actually like barrack but he is getting way to much of a free ride from the meida. He is beign set up. If he get the nomination the same media that cant seem to get their lips off his butt will systematically plan his down fall.

frustrated   January 28th, 2008 11:37 am ET

gloria:

did you not read a word she said? so a white person endorses a white person, it has NOTHING to do with race. the minute a black person endorses a black person, it is RACIAL.

this is like the cafeteria seating arrangement of yester year. it becomes readily apparent of the "minority conspiracy" when two or more black students sit together. what is not seen is the sea of white students surrounding them. no one ever says "hey, why are those white people sitting together?"

i am finding out quickly that the democratic party has a large demographic of liberal npr-listening bigots.

Mike A.   January 28th, 2008 11:35 am ET

Gloria is another ignorant racist out there..!! What makes Hillary more qualified and experienced that Obama. Do you understand what the word "change" entails? Why didnt you say the Kennedy's endorsement is all about Race? Please be reasonable when making political statements. Morrison is a Clinton fan and she has seen thier negative and horrible side which other Americans have seen and decided to opt for Obama. Go Obama 08!!!

jim geminiano   January 28th, 2008 11:35 am ET

Bill Clinton speaks the truth that nobody wants to hear ,"blacks vote for blacks " . Get real America ! Kennedy, Kerry are old establishments , that want to be politically correct . America must vote who is best to handle the economy and the war in Iraq . America 's economy is wounded and is bleeding profusely .
Would you rely on an experience surgeon or a fith healer ?

A. Harrison   January 28th, 2008 11:35 am ET

Great endorsements, but I don't blame the endorsers. The media has been ushering the coutnry along in this wake of Obama love. All while not outlining what he plans to do or how he has a record of getting things done. It's like we're in the twilight zone and only the Clinton Administration and its supporters get the big picture. No one is denying Obama's vision, it's a great vision but we need results.

Amy   January 28th, 2008 11:35 am ET

Toni Morrison is basically endorsing Obama. She once endorsed Bill Clinton and now she is endorsing Barack Obama.

Like Toni said, it has nothing to do with race and gender and I applaud Toni Morrison for that. I really wish that the Clintons and their supporters should be ashamed for continuing to try to make race and gender a factor in this campaign.

Obama had a white mother from Kansas and was raised by his white relatives. He had an immigrant African father who left when Obama was only 2. Barack Obama embodies everything this country was built on. And we can all claim him as ours in this country as Obama is the people's candidate. Obama is America's candidate. We should ALL be proud! Obama in '08.

YES WE CAN!!!

Janis Smith   January 28th, 2008 11:35 am ET

Gloria, why is it that when a black person endorses Obama, it's all about race??? So would it be fair to say that all the white people supporting white candidates are also racist because they are supporting them only because they are white???? That's so ignorant!!! Grow up!

me   January 28th, 2008 11:35 am ET

“That something is a creative imagination which coupled with brilliance equals wisdom." The creative imagination has to be the ability to avoid responding truthfully to questions about integrity!

Why did Obama investigate running for President shortly after his friend Rezko was indicted?

Why is it Obama keeps lying about the relationship with Rezko?

Why doesn't Obama speak about Michelle's work on Treehouse's board of directors, a major Wal-Mart supplier! Did Michelle change working conditions or unfair practices, even any enviromental concerns or anything while earning $52000 a year as a Board Member? No! She was dumped from the Board after a anti Wal-Mart speech by Obama!

According to Obama's Running speech he said: "This can't be about who digs up more skeletons on who, who makes the fewest slip-ups on the campaign trail," he said. "We owe it to the American people to do more than that."

Records are there for a reason, appears Obama doesn't want his record to be uncovered!

Obama is proving to be a master of lies and deception, fortunately the Republicans won't buy into it!

Adam - Milwaukee, WI   January 28th, 2008 11:34 am ET

Not really… I DO however agree that you are voting for the first white woman president … a white woman who could never qualify as president without riding the coat-tails of our former president. Without Bill…she isn't much. It would more significant if a woman ran on her own political accomplishments. Happy Monday!

Mark   January 28th, 2008 11:34 am ET

That's how I wanted to characterize Obama. We get rare chances of having authentic people like Obama in politics.
Thanks, Morrison

mary Louise Dickinson, Alta Loma, CA   January 28th, 2008 11:34 am ET

I wish the race had not come to this. Both senators are good and admirable people. Race & gender should not have gotten involved; but they did and such cannot be ignored.

Mrs. Clinton is not a racist. She is qualified, and she has been effective to this point. Mr. Obama has not been tested on any level. I'll support him should he be called to lead my party, but I have cast my vote for Senator Clinton.

Bubba   January 28th, 2008 11:33 am ET

Let us not forget that Obama has already touched the hearts and minds of millions of Americans. His ideals and ideas for our country transcend racial divides. We are all Americans, a view many miss in their 'win at all cost' race for that golden ring totally forget. Shame that we judge a man or women on their color or their desires for American. It is the principles that count, the ethics that matter and it is the sharing of a common goal that will be the spirit Obama brings to this political arena. I pray this spirit swells in the coming days and months.

From this 63 year old white guy raised in a segregated Southern state, I applaud this wonderful endorsement of Obama from an outstanding writer, Toni Morrison.

NC Independent   January 28th, 2008 11:33 am ET

Gloria, quite frankly, I don't think you, or anyone else has the right to question Morrison's motives for backing Barack. She clearly stated, it was not race, and if you know anything about Morrison you would know that she has done nothing to have her integrity questioned.

FEED UP WITH THE BICKERING   January 28th, 2008 11:33 am ET

"You" should vote for who "you" think is best qualified. It is truly sad that if a black person endorses Obama it is immediately seen as something done simply because he is black. The beloved Bill Clinton was the one that brought race into this nomination process. Obama has proved and is proving that he is just as qualified as Hilliary. But I will say that if this true identity of the way Americans feel continues to be an issue, the Republicans can basically guarantee a win in November.

Matthew   January 28th, 2008 11:32 am ET

Gloria, I couldn't agree more. It's not about the issues or qualifications, it is simply about race.

Myra   January 28th, 2008 11:32 am ET

No Gloria, it is not about race or color but HOPE AND iNSPIRATION ! If you find that in a candidate than it is our choice to vote for them. As an Obama supporter I have and I hope you find that in whoever you vote for.

Viola   January 28th, 2008 11:32 am ET

Oh please, anytime a white person votes for a white candidate, no one suggest the idea of race….but let someone black vote for a black candidate and it becomes an issue of race. Blacks are just as capapble of making a decision based on their individual ideology…., unlike most we are capable of seeing past Mr. Obama's skin-tone….and oh by the way if race were the issue what is Caroline Kennedy's reasone for voting for Obama….

Al Villa   January 28th, 2008 11:31 am ET

Morrison is no surprise. But to this Latino male I prefer a qualified strong WOMAN president. Go Hilary, don't listen to the protectionist media pundits .

Al Villa

Charles T, VA   January 28th, 2008 11:31 am ET

Oh shut up Gloria and take your race playing card home. I guess Angelou supporting Clinton is about race. I can't believe we still have people like you existing on earth today, you belong to 100 years ago. The most scary thing is that you get to vote in this age. WOW!

notevenfordogcatcher   January 28th, 2008 11:31 am ET

Come on Clintonista's, time to get out of bed and attack, it's after 11:00 for crying out loud.

Toni, you are going to get hammered now, for years your foolish words were used as some kind of "proof" that Bill cared about blacks (even though more blacks were put in jail and got booted off welfare under his watch and for the record as a CONSERVATIVE I can say he was actually right) and now the sheep are going to scream that you are only doing this because you are black.

Ted Kennedy, John Kerry and Toni Morrison are unlike the wing of the Democratic party that idolizes the Clintons NO MATTER WHAT and though I disagree with them most of the time, they ALL realize what Bill and Hillarity Clinton are doing to this country and it is wrong.

They NOW FINALLY see what the other side has known for YEARS that these two "people" will do or say anything to gain power including dividing the country by race and sex, but these two hicks don't realize that it is not the 90's anymore and THANKS to Al Bore we have the Internet and we are not forced fed the "news" only by the wholly biased media.

This campaign changed when Obama won white Iowa and almost won white NH (those tears and smears fooled a certain segment) and then the army of surrogates was sent out to spew the hatred and bigotry, we call it the REAL CLINTONS.

A FACTUAL STATEMENT SHEEP.

ABC.

Alfred   January 28th, 2008 11:31 am ET

to Gloria from San Francisco

You got to be out of your mind.

dutch   January 28th, 2008 11:31 am ET

apparently being the polarizing spouse of a former president means that you're "qualified".

Patricia   January 28th, 2008 11:31 am ET

I wish I could vote in these elections. As an international observer I have been following the road to the US election. Mr. Obama rises high above all candidates in the elocuence of his words and in his capacity to make us all believe that change is possible if we engage.

Tikifire   January 28th, 2008 11:30 am ET

It's surprising to me how qualified some folks think Hillary is. She isn't any more qualified than Obama. I think Morrison hit it on the head with her statements about Obama's imagination. Here's hoping Hillary doesn't cheat her way into the nomination.

Stacy   January 28th, 2008 11:30 am ET

Gloria-what a naive view

I am a white woman and I am voting for Obama.

Chnbo YUAN   January 28th, 2008 11:30 am ET

All I hear from Obama was his beautifully worded speeches, can anyone show me what had he done for the nation? What will he do differently from Hilllary in the future?

If it is not for race, what else is this endorsement about? Be honest please!

Eli   January 28th, 2008 11:30 am ET

Gloria,
Did you even read the endorsement letter that Toni wrote? Clearly not about race or gender. Is Ted Kennedy's endorsement about race? Obama never brought race into the picture–the Clinton's did to try and marginalize him. Being the wife of a President or a Governor does not count towards productive leadership experience–she showed great support of her husband and she is intelligent and ambitious, but she lacks charisma, and sadly it seems, integrity. If she can't run her own house well, I don't want her running our nation.

Mark C.   January 28th, 2008 11:29 am ET

Any decision to support or not support Obama can be about race if a person's mind is small enough to only consider it in those terms. People have the right to support any candidate for any number of reasons – some intelligent and thought out and others completely superficial. Not every Black person supports Obama because of his race (btw, he is as much White as he is Black).

Paris,France   January 28th, 2008 11:29 am ET

a god news for america think ,GOD like America

joe   January 28th, 2008 11:29 am ET

Obama voted present for 129 times in Illinois .
Obama=Present= irresponsible

los angeles   January 28th, 2008 11:28 am ET

San Gloria,

I guess you haven't been following the news. You probably think Sen. Ted Kennedy and former Pres. nominee John Kerry are black.

Please grow up and stop thinking everything is about race. Educate yourself and you will empower yourself in the process.

Obama is able to attract people to his campaign and you should respect that.

Change is inevitable.
OBAMA 2008

Yolanda   January 28th, 2008 11:28 am ET

I guess race is more important than gender for some of us
Isn't it girl freind
Real change is electing the first woman president ….guess that is just me.
Sexism is live and well in America

Robert Nicholson, Richmond, VA   January 28th, 2008 11:28 am ET

Apparently, Senator Clinton has to defend everything said by her supporters. So, possibly, Sen. Obama should explain what Ms. Morrison meant by "this is one of those singular moments that nations ignore at their peril". Let's be fair about who's playing the race card.

Scott, Royal Oak, MI   January 28th, 2008 11:28 am ET

Apparently you didn't read the article, Gloria. She said that Obama "exhibits something that has nothing to do with age, experience, race or gender and something I don't see in other candidates"

It's not about race. Just because Ms. Morrison is black, doesn't mean she shouldn't be allowed to endorse a black candidate.

Are Ted and Caroline Kennedy endorsing Obama because he is black?

NO.

It's clearly not "all about race". We need to stop this new flood of ignorance, in which the Clinton campaign and the uneducated attempt to paint Obama as merely some "token" black candidate. He truly is much, much more.

Matt M.   January 28th, 2008 11:27 am ET

Good job, Ms. Morrison. You've redeemed yourself for the asanine comments that you made in that 1998 New Yorker article. You've done so by looking at the man that Barack Obama is and realizing his qualifications, and by understanding that he IS the best candidate for the job and that it has nothing to do with race.

There are many who can't yet see beyond his race to realize that he is the best candidate, just as there are many who can't see beyond Hillary Clinton's gender to realize that she ISN'T.

Thomas   January 28th, 2008 11:27 am ET

Nice… you Clintonites are now slamming an amazing writer. News flash! If you can't read the entire article. Don't comment on it.

Sarah L, Fayetteville, AR   January 28th, 2008 11:27 am ET

Ms. Gloria:

Your comment embodies everything that is wrong with this country. I am a white woman and proudly support Senator Obama. What part of Ms. Morrison's endorcement has anything to do with race? In fact, her endorsement was premised on the fact that Senator Obama transcends race and represents a unity for our country that I have never seen in my lifetime.

So, Ms. Gloria, I believe it is you who is the racist here. You ought to be ashamed of yourself.

Hugh   January 28th, 2008 11:27 am ET

Good for you Gloria from San Francisco! I hope that makes you happy. It's good tohave you on the OTHER side of society!

Dave C - NJ   January 28th, 2008 11:27 am ET

Why do blacks have to defend themselves for liking Obama? Why do they feel that they have to make these "nothing to do with race" comments? If the reason is that whites fingerpoint and say blacks are voting race, then shame on them. It's none of your business why or how someone else votes anyway.

At this point, Edwards doesn't look like he will win, so voters turn to Hillary or Barack. A lot of people like Obama better, and it now looks as if he can win, so it's not a wasted vote. Case closed.

Incidentally, I will vote for Obama over Hillary any day of the week, and I am white.

Patty, somewhere   January 28th, 2008 11:25 am ET

Did we really expect much different…………since the Obama camp and the media have turned this into a race based on race and have used it to falsely accuse their opposition, are we supposed to feel upset or impressed because most of the spokespeople for the black community are suporting Obama? I thought this was supposed to be looking at the best person for the job – the highest job in the land who would normally be under the minutest of scrutiny along with every other person in the race. But….. I guess not. It seems it is okay to show favoritism if you are new, untested and espousing dreams and your scrutiny takes on new meaning – there is none! I am wondering if it is the old boy's school of not necessarily worrying about the race of someone but definitely gender is the issue?

Donna   January 28th, 2008 11:25 am ET

As a Canadian I watch CNN. I cannot believe how negative you are about Hillary
Clinton. Why don't you report on all the candidates fairly and give Edwards his fair share of time as well. . I remember when Al Gore was running the CNN media was so down on him. You were constantly repeating how boring he was, couldn't
relate etc. Maybe you helped George Bush to get elected. Not the hanging chads.
Lets be fair. You claim to be the best political team then start actng like one.

John   January 28th, 2008 11:25 am ET

Obama is clearly demarcated as blank canditate after the Nevada and SC elections. I hope the Republicans will have an edge if Obama has been nominated as Demacratic candidate.

America should need an experienced president to face the gobal challenges that america is facing. People should think twice before voting for the right candidate.

It should not be based on race or gender. It should be the right president for america.

Cliff, Ca   January 28th, 2008 11:24 am ET

Morrison's endorsement is based on race, pure and simple. The reasons she gives for endorsing Obama are mind-boggling: a creative imagination coupled with brilliance equals wisdom? Good Lord, what does that mean? Sounds like a lot of manufactured sticky-sweet, writer's prose to me. Morrison may have some stature as a writer, but that doesn't provide her with the credentials she needs to give her endorsement any weight.

Come on, Maya Angelou, let's hear from your corner. You are more than a writer and poet, you are a woman of proven wisdom, thoughtful intellect, and strong character. You endorsed Hillary long ago.

DrIndependent   January 28th, 2008 11:24 am ET

It is clear where African-American votes are going. This has nothing to do with issues , policy, or capability and everything to do with racism.

Been wondering what’s up with this whole Obama ‘08 excitement, because the guy hasn’t actually done anything but win his first Senate race after Republican Jack Ryan had to drop out.

He hasn't done anything since getting elected either. As quoted in Washington Post, Obama's offer is:

"Obama dangles a tantalizing vision of a nation shattering old barriers of race, party and interest group to work together in a new unity of purpose. This promise rests not on his platform"-Washington Post

Well, Obama won't get my vote in a million years.

Hilary or McCain Perriod.

Rico   January 28th, 2008 11:24 am ET

I guess Caroline Kennedy and Janet Napolinato thinks it's about race too right? get a life please…

Jimmy   January 28th, 2008 11:23 am ET

I dont believe is about race. Caroline Kennedy is white female supporting Obama. Mr Johnson (BET founder)is black and supporting Senator Clinton. Are they colour blind? or you, San Gloria, see something they dont see.

John   January 28th, 2008 11:23 am ET

Gloria,
this woman has transcended race. Do you see what she says about Bill?
Please forget about race. Be American!

"Now, acclaimed black writer Toni Morrison’s first presidential endorsement is going to the potential second, Barack Obama". Why is CNN saying potential second? What a biased channel!

Obama '08.

Brian Larsen   January 28th, 2008 11:22 am ET

That's funny, Gloria. I didn't realize there was a white woman running.

Ronnie   January 28th, 2008 11:22 am ET

Yeah Gloria, I said the same thing after Bill Clinton's race baiting remarks during the South Carolina primary…..

Al in Wpg   January 28th, 2008 11:21 am ET

Yes, for some it's all about race, for others it's all about gender, and for the few it's about issues… for those that will make their decision based on race, their minds wont be easily changed, same with those voting on gender. People need to realize this and get over it, move on. Hillary will probably not become a man, Obama will probably not become more than half white, and Edwards will not become darker… so what else do they offer?

I must say, I find it funny when some people write things like "don't vote based on race, we need a woman in the whitehouse"

joe   January 28th, 2008 11:21 am ET

I will vote for the first white woman president.

Rob   January 28th, 2008 11:21 am ET

Oh please…this is not about race….she just said that did you bother to read it or Glorida are you one of these white women who thik just cause all of you share the same sexual equiment that add up to a vote…Black people are not voting on race here there voting cause Obama has the better Vision…please stop making this a race issue cause Obama is half white…he's as big a part of your race as he is mine…and if your voting for HIlary cause her message is better to you the i applaude you…but I can tell just from your statement that you thik every women in this nation should be ralling to the cause of HIlary…and you say blacks vote based on race..???…what are you voting based on..

Ivelisse   January 28th, 2008 11:21 am ET

another endorsement from a black 'leader'…. thanks God this is not about race….

PLEASE NOTE THAT IN HER REASONING SHE **DOES NOT** INCLUDE "SOLUTIONS" AS ONE OF THE THINGS THIS GUY BRINGS TO THE TABLE……

SHE **DOES NOT*** INCLUDE "ANYTHING" THAT HINTS AS TO 'RESULTS'!!!!! – INSTEAD SHE ONLY QUOTES "IMAGINATION"…..

WHATEVER!!!!!!

Amy   January 28th, 2008 11:21 am ET

Me too.. I guess it's all about race not qualifications or experience as to what candidate had done before. It's not about Candidacy but about Race, I will be voting for first women president too.

Peace   January 28th, 2008 11:21 am ET

Gloria I think you are not quite right. What will you say about endorsement of the Kennedy. is that also about race?

joe   January 28th, 2008 11:20 am ET

Yes . it is about the race.

8 out 10 blacks vote for Obama. sigh.

George   January 28th, 2008 11:20 am ET

Unfortunately, this primary looks more and more about race, not about substance. Otherwise, how could you explain more than 80% blacks supporting a black candidate? I am not black and I won't be voting for a black candidate.

AJ, IL   January 28th, 2008 11:20 am ET

Ahhh come on GLORIA OF SAN FRANCISCO….Change is coming. You can look beyond race and gender to see that Obama would a president worth supporting. Why Toni Morrison would choose to speak about Obama now is beyond me? Non-political surrogates endorsements like Morrison are meaningless other than making for a political ticker headline. If she was truely a believer in Obama's campaign she would be endorsed him back in the summer of 2007. But her endorsement is welcomed, now she can be quiet. LOL

Zac   January 28th, 2008 11:20 am ET

but she said it wasn't about race

Dianna, Oklahoma   January 28th, 2008 11:19 am ET

Gloria that is an awful thing to say. She has been a Clinton Supported in the past and was very clear why she made her decision lest we forget she is also a woman and could have thrown her hat that way. I wish people would discuss the candidates based on their record, their track record of truth in advertising and stumping and the way they conduct there personal life and not there gender or race. Based on your statement above I should vote for Hillary? Why, because I am a white female? I do not care for her to become my President.

Shawn   January 28th, 2008 11:19 am ET

Yes, Really. We believe you. It's not about his race. Surely it must be that vast experience he has.

James Brown ( Independent )   January 28th, 2008 11:18 am ET

It's not at all about race , if you think it is , it says more about you then it does anyone else.

Lynne   January 28th, 2008 11:18 am ET

Folks need to stop thinking about the symbolism and historic nature of a first "fill in the blank" (Black, female) president and vote for the candidate based on their qualifications and ability to be President of the United States.

C.Lo   January 28th, 2008 11:17 am ET

So Gloria,

What do you have to say when KOBE BRYANT backs Hillary, MAGIC JOHNSON backs Hillary, even Al Sharpton is backing Hillary. Are they white????

I am asian, not that it matters, but I am voting OBAMA

Obama08!

Benedetto   January 28th, 2008 11:17 am ET

It's not about race? Then why did she call Bill Clinton the first black President? He's white. She wanted a black Pres all along. What a strange statement. I wonder if a white person would say they aren't supporting Edwards because he's white. Something isnt right with her comment.

david   January 28th, 2008 11:17 am ET

I too want to vote for a woman President; however, I would prefer that it be someone other than a Clinton or a Bush.

Larissa in Charlotte, NC   January 28th, 2008 11:16 am ET

Unfortunately, voters arent listening to the candidates, theyre casting votes entirely based on gender or race. Its unfortuante for our country and our future. Race & gender should not win the job. Qualifications, ideas supported with plans should encourage people to the polls. None of the candidates are entirely great. We have to listen to the candidates and determine which candidate will do the least harm during their tenure in office. Race, religion and gender have no business in politics. Ive yet to hear Obama actually come up with a plan, a 'how-to' on all these issues. How can so many people be willing to cast their vote for a person who has no gameplan but happily picks fights with Hillary.

Inga   January 28th, 2008 11:15 am ET

What a wonderful endorsement from a woman I deeply respect.

PJ, New York   January 28th, 2008 11:15 am ET

I'm with you Gloria! It's unfortunate that they have turned this into a race issue.

Hillary Clinton will make a great president!

dave   January 28th, 2008 11:15 am ET

Gloria,

Morrison is a gifted writer and you level her endorsement down to race?!?! Maybe you should examine your attitude about race before making such an ignorant comment.

Kyle G. Columbia SC   January 28th, 2008 11:15 am ET

Gloria come on……If anyone black endorses Barack the first thing people think "oh it's a black thing." Its different this time around, we never had a serious black candidate running and now that their is one, don't steal where people stand.

But if Americans are going to read into what the media wants to pit white America verses black America then I say to myself, "What is this country becoming?" Many of you might jump all over me and call me whatever name you want all I say is give Barack a fair chance. Don't tie one hand behind him because he's black.

Fernando   January 28th, 2008 11:15 am ET

That's right, it's not about race. I'm an American of Hispanic descent and my vote on Super Tues. will be for Barack Obama. Why? Because I think he is the best candidate for President of this country. I want CHANGE!

Jack, Greenville, SC   January 28th, 2008 11:15 am ET

Some people who post here will say it is about race no matter what, which is sad. I for one will take Mrs. Morrison at her word. Her endorsement will have no effect on my vote, but she seems to have eloquently stated the reasons that some people have for backing Obama.

roger, conway sc   January 28th, 2008 11:14 am ET

Gloria San Francisco..ME TOO…

john   January 28th, 2008 11:14 am ET

8 out of 10 black endorse Obama. how do the white people think about it?

shame.

Dave Froyalde/Washington   January 28th, 2008 11:14 am ET

This endorsement is about race and nothing more. It's too bad this is happening. I will vote for Hillary because she is the most qualified candidate of the Democratic Party and the only candidate that can beat any Republican nominee.

James, Cleveland Ohio   January 28th, 2008 11:12 am ET

Gloria, question, would it be about race if Toni Morrison was white? If your answer is no then the race issue is yours.

Jay   January 28th, 2008 11:12 am ET

Toni Morrison – I wonder how 'black' Barack Obama is in your eyes. Since Clinton was 'black' becuz he was raised poor in Arkansas – let's hope that Obama fits the bill. What does that say for the rest of us black people who were born of well-to-do parents and do not play a sax? Guess I'm not black enough. lol

Robert in Albuquerque   January 28th, 2008 11:12 am ET

Gloria, I have to agree. It seems to be turning into a race about race. Blacks voting for a black man and white voting for a white woman.

anonymous   January 28th, 2008 11:12 am ET

Report: Former Obama Donor Tony Rezko Arrested on Bond Violation

Still haven't seen this anywhere on your website, but I see it on all the other major news websites!!!!

kevin from alaska   January 28th, 2008 11:11 am ET

I think a lot of people have different things to say now about the Clintons than they did 10 years ago….

This election is taking place in 2008 people, not 1992 or 98. Thank you.

Also, her quote about Clinton kind of reminds me of Norman Mailer's "The White Negro." Anyone ever read that?

JA, BROOKLYN, NY   January 28th, 2008 11:10 am ET

It wasn't about race when she BACKED CLINTON. Now because she backed OBAMA it is? GET REAL !!

votehillary2008   January 28th, 2008 11:09 am ET

Hillary has Maya Angelou.

John in Lincoln   January 28th, 2008 11:09 am ET

"..acclaimed black writer.." Do you refer to Bernard Goldberg as an "acclaimed white writer"? How about "acclaimed American writer"?

Katy, TX   January 28th, 2008 11:08 am ET

I had a lot of respect for Ms. Morrison until now. I don't trust Obama any further than I can throw him. He's too shiny, and frankly, he lacks the stamina to clean up the mess from our current badministration. This is just another example of how our nation will never see beyond race or gender, because unfortunately folks are still going to vote for their skin color or gender rather than the best person for the position.

Cheerio   January 28th, 2008 11:06 am ET

What beautiful words from Toni Morrison. She clearly shares the feelings we all have about Barack (and probably expresses those feelings more eloquently!).

You know, after that crap question in the last debate about Bill Clinton being the first black president (which was really almost impossible for Barack to answer well, though I thought he did great)… I really hope they ask Hillary at the next debate: "So what does it mean when Toni Morrison, who said your husband was the first black president, is now emphatically endorsing Barack?"

Anyway, I know I'm not different than Millions of other Americans… but my heart is pouring over with love for this man. I just re-read The Audacity of Hope, and was so struck by that last sentence of the Epilogue: My heart is filled with love for this country. (or something like that, I don't have it here with me).

I can honestly say I know how he feels. Remember the way we all felt in the days after 9/11? The pride in this country, the love for our fellow Americans, the feeling that we'd be willing to do anything for each other? Barack inspires that feeling in me again. I haven't felt it for years, and listening to him speak on Saturday night, those feelings came flooding back. It's amazing that we can rally around not just a negative moment in American history, but around one of the most positive moments in American history: the leadership and ascension of Barack Obama.

Love that man.

Cynical Too   January 28th, 2008 11:05 am ET

How refreshing that ALL the black endorsements come out AFTER a recent win. Where were they in the beginning! I suspect they weren't so sure of his qualifications either. In the words of another debater "Sir, you are no John Kennedy". The Kennedys should be ashamed of themselves to waste my generations memories on some snot-nosed junior leaguer.

Kurt, Chicago   January 28th, 2008 11:05 am ET

She's a nut case…

Gloria, San Francisco, CA   January 28th, 2008 11:04 am ET

It's all about race and not qualifications. Too bad.

I guess I will say I am voting for the first white woman president….

StopwatchingCNN, Rochester, NY   January 28th, 2008 11:03 am ET

Can we talk about the bias reporting of the press. Toni Morrison endorses Obama and it's all over the news. NY Times endorses Hillary and I can hear the birds chirping. The Farmers Union in Calf. endorses Hillary , but you don't hear a word about it. Gov. Ed Rendell of PA, the former chairman of the Democratic party endorses Hillary and you don't hear anything about it. I'm pretty sure only about 15% of America knows who Toni Morrison is, but everyone knows the NY Times. I'm just saying, the media is backing Obama and they are not being shy about it. It's not only unfair to Hillary, it's unfair to John Edwards. By the way, Resko was just arrested this morning, but his name is not Norman Hsu, so CNN won't report that either.

Pround Dem   January 28th, 2008 11:02 am ET

Bill Clinton wasn't born poor. He drove his own car in high school.

An Agnostic Democrat   January 28th, 2008 11:00 am ET

Hmm … integrity, authenticity. Three words that have never been used in print or spoken about the Clintons … EVER!

Mark Cross Junction VA   January 28th, 2008 10:58 am ET

What a surprise! No other black canidate in the race.

Al in Wpg   January 28th, 2008 10:57 am ET

Wow, that's huge. A big boost to Obama, and a HUGE slap in the face for Hill/Bill.

Tim, Cincinnati, OH   January 28th, 2008 10:57 am ET

The Clintons are having a bad day. I can't stop smiling.

E in WI   January 28th, 2008 10:56 am ET

Thank you for setting the record straight. Toni you have a beautiful soul.

Jim in Orlando, FL   January 28th, 2008 10:52 am ET

At least she got it right on the second try.

SecondSage   January 28th, 2008 10:52 am ET

I wonder if she regrets her comments from a decade ago.

I want to see race taken out of this campaign. Obama is trying to rise above that. The only one injecting race is Bill Clinton with his Jesse Jackson comments. Obama is proving more and more to be a viable candidate.

I'd like to see him and Romney square off.

Steve   January 28th, 2008 10:51 am ET

Wow…all the former Clinton supporters keep leaving and leaving…

So Obama dominated Iowa, split delegates in NH, won the delegate count in Nevada, and dominated SC. Hillary has got to be pretty scared – scared to the point that she'll start campaigning in a state who's delegates don't even count.

Katherine   January 28th, 2008 10:51 am ET

As a writer, I have the upmost respect for Ms. Morrison; however, I really don't see the significance in who she supports. The same goes for actors and other famous celebrities. Our culture has become way too enraptured in the opinions and views of these so-called celebrities that it almost seems we need them to make decisions for us. You can see our obsession every day in the media. Heath Ledger dies and the whole US stops and reports on it meanwhile does anyone know how many US soldiers were killed or wounded on that same day? Enough with reporting on famous people's opinions. Stick to the issues and stop stupifying the American public.

A Woman, a boomer and an Obama supporter   January 28th, 2008 10:50 am ET

WOW!!! Will be an interesting week if these endorsements from former Clinton supporters keep coming.

Now we will have to hear from all the Clinton racists who condemn her endorsement because she is black…oh, right the Clintons have dropped AfroAmericans…the "Latinos" are their new "win at all costs" strategy.

Vote for unity…

sharpener34   January 28th, 2008 10:50 am ET

Why is the media trying to convince the American public that the Clintons are racist because they predicted Obama would do well in South Carolina because of the large % of African Americans in South Carolina?

Why did they try to paint Clinton as a racist when she called Obama out on giving rhetoric speeches with no details after NH?

The media seems bent on helping Obama. Why?

Jay   January 28th, 2008 10:44 am ET

Poor Obama. Always the victim.

Despite protests to the contrary, the Obama campaign very clearly and actively sought an opportunity to inject race into the 2008 campaign leading into Nevada and South Carolina. See the four-page memo leaked from his campaign that outlined his race strategy – the same memo that Tim Russert held up during the SC debate.(simply Google "obama racist memo")

But Clinton wasn't giving them anything to label "racist" so they first went with the wholly benign "fairy tale" as being racist to describe one of Obama's positions. Hardly racist. Then his campaign picked up on Clinton’s MLK comment and misinterpreted it. He needed to trick and incite African Americans, while distancing himself enough personally so as not to be obvious to whites, Hispanics and others.

Obama is a con man. He needs to keep in mind, however, that if his race is going to held out as a reason to vote FOR him, it must also be a valid reason to vote AGAINST him. He can't have it both ways.

His tactics worked in SC, but will fail long term. America won’t stand for four years of an Obama adminstration’s racial slicing and dicing.

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