Watch portions of Obama's speech Monday. (Getty Images)
PHILADELPHIA, Pennsylvania (CNN) – Sen. Barack Obama said Tuesday he chose to run for president because he believes "we cannot solve the challenges of our time unless we solve them together."
Speaking to supporters at Philadelphia's National Constitution Center, the Democratic presidential candidate said he rejected racially charged comments made by the Rev. Jeremiah Wright, but explained the root of his remarks.
Wright used to preach at the Trinity United Church of Christ, where Obama worships.
Obama said that his belief that all people want to move in the same direction comes from his "unyielding faith in the decency and generosity of the American people. But it also comes from my own American story."
From CNN Politics
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Home Run
What a BIG FAT LIAR...Why do you people (and CNN, Obama's best buddy) not see this person for the fake and charlatan that he is.
I am so proud to support Obama. I am also pleased that my son was able to watch his speech with me.
Thank you Mr. Obama, your words were moving and touched me.
I am extremely so very glad that I got to hear the whole speech myself - instead of the filtered version the media will be sure to air. The speech was perfect on all accounts I can think of. Obama was sincere, honest, scholarly, and presidential. This speech is simply a masterpiece for the history books.
so tell me why he first stated he did not hear his pastor talk like this now the truth came out that he did and he is the candiate of change why did he not leave the church that puts america down why would he let his daughters listen to that kind of sermon???????????????????????????????????????????????????????????????that is kind of fishy to me!!!!!!!!!!!
lol. Leave it to the CNN moderators to block anything the might make Obama look bad. Why even offer viewers the opportunity to posts messages if they immediately get deleted?
He insults me as an American and a white person. He can't distance himself from this horrible man. He can have this man, just leave politics HE DOES NOT BELONG.
The question is why Obama?
Why american people should trust a person who has been in a racist church for 20 years to be the uniter??
He stll has not said he was in the pews when 1 of those derogatoery statements were made....... THe Rev insulted all those who died in the 911 attacks........
Barack Obama again reminded us of the opportunity we have as a people to be inclusive and solution oriented. His speech transcended politics and addressed what this country can be. I would like to see him continue this discussion with Senator Clinton and Senator McCain.
Obama you are exactly rght.
If this speech doesn't inspire you to work hard to make this country a better place for all, then you are just an angry person and would love for the country to continue down the treachorous road we are currently on.
I still find it extremely hard to believe Obama can sit in a church for 20 years and not know the true racial feelings Rev. Wright harbors.
I think is was one of his best speechs. You have to listen to the all speech to put it into context and not just short quotes and one-line snipets. Great speech!
OBAMA '08
Very moving speech. To the point and on the point. He really shows what kind of person he is and how dedicated he is to uniting our country and bringing about the changes that we need to be as one.
Lots of common sense and a lot of presidential presence.
We can always move beyond wounds no matter what happens, however, it's not easy to move beyond what could happen from a man who sits in a anti-America church for 20 years. This is an election. We do need to evalute your background and we can't just ignore it.
Essentially Obama asked America to take a look in the mirror. Oustanding speech.
I am proud of Obama speech but we still have stupid people that want let old dogs die. If Hillary wins the election it will not last because of impeachment just like Bill. If Hillary had an ounce of sense she would have turned over her taxes and everything esle. No because she want that glory before she goes down in the hall of shame.
Great Speech,historical lets see if Americans are dumb not to move on!
Obama is the future!
Great speech, one for the ages.
I see this largely as a stump speech to garner more support in Pennsylvania, and especially Philly. Free cable coverage will go a long way.
Obama is anti-American. Wake up America before it is too late!!!
He will say or do anything to get control of our country.
He sat in this church for 20 years and is well aware of the
remarks of Pastor Wright. Why???
Vote Hillary.
mr obama well done/ keep being yourself, speak from your heart
Way to go Barack!! As a 25 year old white male I support you 100%.
You tell it like it is and people like myself and other's around the country respect that.
We need to move beyond race and face the realization that you are the only candidate capable of bringing about change in Washington.
A WOLF IN SHEEPS CLOTHING, HE SHOULD DROP OUT NOW!