March 19, 2008
Posted: 06:07 PM ET
 CNN's Anderson Cooper interviewed Obama Wednesday.
CNN's Anderson Cooper interviewed Obama Wednesday.

(CNN)Barack Obama told CNN Wednesday the recent uproar over his former pastor's sermons has reminded him of the odds he faces in winning the White House.

"In some ways this, this controversy has actually shaken me up a little bit and gotten me back into remembering that the odds of me getting elected have always been lower than than some of the other conventional candidates," the Illinois senator told CNN's Anderson Cooper in an exclusive one-on-one interview. (Related: Behind the scenes: Anderson Cooper asks Obama if the controversy has damaged him)

Obama declined to speculate on whether the controversy surrounding the Rev. Jeremiah's Wright's sermons may damage him politically, but said his campaign does best when it doesn't follow the "textbook."

"If I was just running the textbook campaign– doing the conventional thing, I probably wasn't going to win because Senator Clinton was going to be much more capable of doing that than I would be," he said. "We had tremendous success– and I think we were starting to get a little comfortable and conventional right before Texas and Ohio."

The exclusive interview came one day after Obama delivered a major speech on race and politics in Philadelphia, during which he denounced some of Wright's comments, but said he could not repudiate the man himself.

Full story

Catch the full interview tonight on Anderson Cooper 360, 10 p.m. ET

– CNN Ticker Producer Alexander Mooney

Filed under: Barack Obama


Sled Dog   March 19th, 2008 5:39 pm ET

What does Barack mean when he describes the others as conventional candidates? He seems to be the one making distinctions.

I do not believe the odds are against because he is multi-race, but because he as a man has demonstrated poor judgement in regards to his relationships.

The more I hear him speak after this whole Wright issue, the more annoyed and angry I get with Obama. I think he has a real problem, but he just keeps dancing around it. He tries to make these insane analogies to help us understand his perspective, but they just make me feel like we're hearing from a high schooler.

Larry Buchas   March 19th, 2008 5:39 pm ET

Enough said, Joe?

Maybe you prefer Bush?

Barack Obama's views have been exposed for the world to see. He faced this race issue where no one else has since Dr. King. He was completely honest and courageous. He would be criticized by the likes of If he left his church.

The views of Reverend Wright are not those of Barack Obama. But you can't accept him saying that? He has far too much cojones than you will ever have. It's people like you that are too frightened to post your full name. Sounds like a Republican to me.

Kevin   March 19th, 2008 5:39 pm ET

If he is "shaken up" by this, how can he not be shaken up if another country attacks us?

A little disappointing of him!

Dan R   March 19th, 2008 5:39 pm ET

Ok lets just be honest about this. The people in Michigan and Florida did have a vote when they voted to put the party leaders in office in there states. Then thoughs party leaders decided to break the rules and move there contests up to the dates in which they did, knowing the outcome. Hillary agreed to this early on as well. An frankly the only CHANGE that Hillary brings is CHANGE to the rules of the game. Go Obama!!!

Seam   March 19th, 2008 5:39 pm ET

Everytime i see or hear him, the whole wright messages comes up to my mind. i'm sad because i thought he could be the one but he is just the same as the rest…

Laura Roslin   March 19th, 2008 5:39 pm ET

Hillary Clinton is boasting that she "won" Michigan, when her major opponents were not even on the ballot.

Her surrogates are in control in PA and FL, and engineered this mess from the very beginning.

Dems in Florida supported the move up of primary, and hoped it would bust the system open.

Letting big states like Florida jump ahead of the line hurts candidates like John Edwards who don't have the multi millionairs supporting them, or who can't loan their campaign $5 million at the drop of a hat.
(Tax returns for the past 8 years hillary?)

That is why the DNC lets some smaller states go first, so that we actually have more candidates to choose from.

If Michigan and Florida are done over, how is that fair to the candidates who weren't on the ballot or didn't campaign?

How is it fair to their supporters?

Edwards can't get back in the contest now, nor can the others.

It was engineered from the beginning.

Jeff Lane   March 19th, 2008 5:38 pm ET

Obama is the man he is today because he sat in those pews and listened to PAstor Wright. If Pastor Wrights words moved Obama to want to end racism and fight for equality and get America to the point where any child can believe they can grow up to be President then I applaud the Pastor for being such a good 'bad' example.
Obama at home had to listen to his Mother state she was afraid of American black men, in church he listened to his Pastor say he should be afraid of rich white men.
Today he stands up before America and says he wants to stand for all Americans, be they white, black, men, women, rich, or poor.
Thanks to his upbringing in the church, home, and in his communities where he worked and lived he has become a man who is willing to stand up and make a difference in this country.
I, as a 40 year old white male, look forward to changes he wants to put into place for the betterment of all Americans.

JpJ   March 19th, 2008 5:38 pm ET

"Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton bluntly challenged Barack Obama to agree to new primaries in Michigan and Florida on Wednesday and said it was "wrong, and frankly un-American" not to have the two delegations seated at the Democratic National Convention"

Where was her anger and outrage at the time they were striped of their delegates? Is it only now that she needs them, that they matter? She agreed not to campaign in either state and also agreed to have her name removed from the ballot in Michigan only to "forget" to file the paperwork. Was it "wrong and un-American" then or only now that they are her last hope?

reg   March 19th, 2008 5:38 pm ET

Florida and Michigan knew the rules. They broke them, and therefore they should not have delegates. Sorry, but if we let them revote or do something of the sort it will set a precedent and other states will push primaries up in the next election cycle. Don't blame the DNC or Obama, blame your party leaders in your respective states. They put your rights at risk. Sorry, we need to let this go.

barb in minneapolis   March 19th, 2008 5:38 pm ET

Good idea raf. I'm cool with Michigan and Florida seceding from the Union. In fact, Michigan and Florida and Hillary Clinton can form their own perfect Union. Problem solved.

jvd   March 19th, 2008 5:38 pm ET

Why is Hilary Clinton asking Obamam about re- votes in Florida and Michigan? The democrats in those states violated party rules and should pay. What is un-american is to delibarately ignore rules and expect special consideration.

By the way, Obama's speech was great and instructive about the crucible of race in the US. It is worth noting that white politicians have rarely if ever repudiated or discussed the utterances of the pastors from the moral majority with the coded words about blacks and non-whites masquareding as concerns for a restrictive Christian culture. Does anyone recall this much uproar over Jerry Falwell's comments after 9/11 about God turning letting the US be punished because of gays, the UCLA, and other liberal folks?

I am a black male and well aware that neither my education, erudition, active catholic life, 26 years of marriage, commitment to my 3 children and my spouse, entrepreneurship, good grooming, etc. exempt me from being followed in stores by security guards or from my white peers and colleagues subtly questionning my abilities.

Ann   March 19th, 2008 5:38 pm ET

Hillary lied about NAFTA and her "foreign policy experience".. Check out her records.. Nothing but hand shakes smiles and visiting foreign attractions..

Mark   March 19th, 2008 5:38 pm ET

So Obama gave a speech in which he summarized racism in America in broadest, most generic terms. He personalized it by comparing private chats with his grandmother to the public inciting of hatred to a group of 8,500 (not counting the DVD sales). In the end he drew oh so insightful conclusion that racism is bad and we still have a lot of work to do…What am I missing? In what way is this so called "masterpiece" speech not a mediocre freshman essay?

nomfundo   March 19th, 2008 5:38 pm ET

well ldont see how obama lied to anyone ,what he only did was to shed light on the problem that america still faces today and thats racism from both sides…

Anywere who said half white and half black people are black….It must have been a white person…Its funny how far this race thing has gone….l never hear cnn referring to hillary Clinton as the european-american white hillary but l constantly hear you guys referring to Obama as african american .You make it sound as though being black and african is curse .

Obama told the truth and people may hate him for it but the truth will always conquer.When l look back neither white or black are true americans but the native indians…so just suck it coz america is what it is today coz of all races involved

Curtis   March 19th, 2008 5:37 pm ET

Joe, he said he had not heard the comments from the video clips playing on the news because he did not attend church on those days. Nobody ever said he hadn't been in the guy's sermons…

Ron Paul supporter   March 19th, 2008 5:37 pm ET

If you dont like the man, just say it using what someone else said as a "excuse' is weak. He lied and, so did Scooter Libby, Bill Clinton, Don Imus the list goes on and on, we all make mistakes.

" He who has not sinned, cast the first stome"!

pat   March 19th, 2008 5:37 pm ET

Good speech but OBAMA you did lie to us on Friday , then had a different version of what you were aware of on Monday. CHANGE ??? Sounds like politics as usual to me.I think come NovemberI will vote for a candidate who chooses better advisors!

John   March 19th, 2008 5:37 pm ET

Yep this is getting good now. Time to put the women and children to bed (this means you Hillary and Obama) and get this election going.

McCain wins in a landslide in November because the dems can't get their house in order.

Parvin   March 19th, 2008 5:37 pm ET

Joe….you will need to look back at the QA session in which Obama was asked about Rev Wright's horrible rhetoric. He was aked whether he was in church during that particular taped sermon and he said no although he became aware of it when he started his campaign. Now he was asked later whether he was aware of any other sermons that had controversial tones and he said yes. He also pointed out that he told the Rev he did not agree with that. And early on in his campaign, he has said publicly that he did not agree with some views held by Rev Wright. The question was whether he was in "that" sermon and he said he was not.

bwlib   March 19th, 2008 5:37 pm ET

joe (comment 2) can you not read or listen? He didn't lie…he still maintains he hadn't heard those two sermons (indeed it's been proven that he was in Miami for one and they've proven the other). He said in his speech that he has heard controversial remarks in the past but so have many people.You act like he made the remarks.Why are you so stuck on this instead of the message of his speech yesterday and instead of his message instead of that of Rev. Wright as if you're being asked to vote for Rev. Wright. You better worry about GW Bush lying to you about war or Clinton's lying in office, or Rev. Falwell's rhetoric and advising past presidents, etc. and not focus on individuals these candidates may know. You fall for any silly distraction.

Fred   March 19th, 2008 5:37 pm ET

As an independent voter, Barack lost me yesterday. He did not distance himself from his pastor nor his church, and instead offered excuses for them. He cannot be a "healer" if he tolerates & approves of these extreme views. I believe we are just beginning to discover who Barack really is.

Love your neighbor   March 19th, 2008 5:37 pm ET

"He that is without sin, let him cast the first stone." It is interesting how many people are talking about Pastor Wright's hate, and yet I feel the hate in their e-mails. There is a lot of hate coming out in this campaign. And that is a double standard. Everybody needs to check out his/her own heart. Hate is hate whether it is delivered by a black pastor or a white Hilary support.

Belle   March 19th, 2008 5:37 pm ET

He was so arrogant for so long, of course he is shaken up. He never expected the media to scrutinize him. Looks like he's blaming everyone but himself. And to lamely bring up the war…again? Makes me think of how Guiliani brought up 9/11 every chance he got.

WAYNE   March 19th, 2008 5:37 pm ET

Obama has had it easy up to now. Now that the heat is on, he's begining to break. If he thinks he's under pressure now, how will he handle the pressure as Commander in Chief?

Peter   March 19th, 2008 5:37 pm ET

Joe, as with many of you who are so anxious to criticize Obama for anything that you can dream up. With respect to Obama's comments that he had not heard Rev. Wright's comments that were being played over and over on the networks, he said that he did not. Those were not the same comments that he was referring to when he said that he heard him make comments that he considered inappropriate. I am a Clinto supporter, but I believe that putting incorrect negative information out there can only hurt the party. If she wins the nomination, as I hope that she does, then she is going to need the support of Obama and his people to win the general election. Let us bring some reason to this. Tearing him down does not help the party overall, and it may give the republicans something to use against us. Have you and the others who rant and rave either about Obama or Clinton considered the effects of this. Remember that the other party is reading your blogs as well.

Cameron Johnson   March 19th, 2008 5:37 pm ET

"Well, you know, It's clear, this election they're having is not going to count for anything"

- The Senator from New York (HRC)

A move of opportunity at best, and at worst, a further attempt to pervert and supercede the rules of the primary election process.

josh   March 19th, 2008 5:36 pm ET

If we don't stop bickering and stand together McInsane and the Repubes will get the White House.

WWIII, anyone?

Cory   March 19th, 2008 5:36 pm ET

Don't the Hilary-fanatics have anything better to do than blindly rant and rave in every comment section? Do you really think you're convincing anyone at all, or even remotely helping her campaign? How many times must I read "OBAMA IS A LIAR. I SEE IT IN HIS FACE." or "Go Hilary! Obama's a scumbag! Clinton '08″ among the countless others.

Really, give it up. It's the equivalent of 2nd-grade insults. Y'know, there's this thing called, critical, rational thought–use it, and you all might come up with something to say that's worth my consideration. Please, for the sake of everyone, lift the veil.

dee, tx   March 19th, 2008 5:36 pm ET

for the person who said Barack lied to us…I'm reminded of Hillary's statement during a debate in which she said she was not aware she was voting to go to war in Iraq, the bill was title "….Authorization for war"…so please spare me the outrage.

clinton muehlenbrock   March 19th, 2008 5:36 pm ET

how many of you have hearing problems? Obama said he did not hear the contraversial words from u-tube. He said the pastor has said things he didnt agree with politically but in no way stating he heard the pastors view that is being broadcasted. How did he lie? Fill me in. To the people who support clinton and don't know why, you make a fool of yourself when you speak before knowing or understanding whats being said.

have a wonderful day and 4 more years of jobs being outsourced by bill clintons nafta. You guys are intelligent. Bush senior wrote nafta bill finalized it hahaha vote away nafta is not going anywhere lol.

Nicholas Hussein   March 19th, 2008 5:20 pm ET

Joe, how did he lie? He wasn't present during the sermon that you've seen on TV, and yesterday re-iterated that he wasn't. He said he has sat through objectionable content before though, and you probably find that reason enough to "reject & denounce" him, huh?

Besides, even if he had been at that sermon, what would you really expect him to do? Jump up & say hey, Rev. Wright, I'm planning to run for President, please calm down?!

Give the man a break! We ALL have friends whose views and/or lifestyles we don't agree with…you must've missed the explanatory part of his speech yesterday, and the analogy involving his white grandmother…

Please, everyone…this is not a political issue. Rev. Wright isn't running for President, Barack Obama is. And Barack Obama has shown pride and love for his country through his actions over the last year – that is undeniable.

If you just don't like him because he's black, or because some of his friends are (also) black and (also) angry – you should at least have the guts to admit that THAT is why you don't like him. But calling him a liar only makes you look bad.

Hussein   March 19th, 2008 5:02 pm ET

Joe, from what I understand, Obama said, on Friday, that he had not heard the comments by Wright speifically shown in the clips which had begun to circulate–not that he had never heard him say anything bad in all 20 years. This is consistent with his position in yesterday's speech. FYI.

joe   March 19th, 2008 4:59 pm ET

Oh, wait. I see now. He said he wasn't present for the sermons shown on youtube. But he has heard other comments. He's reasonable. Hence, me not typing in CAPS anymore!

Mig   March 19th, 2008 4:59 pm ET

If someone else close to Hillary or McCain would've said what Obama's Rev. Wright said… people (like the media) would not be as forgiving but for some reason Obama get's way with very thing… I'm so tired of him… Note… I will vote for McCain if Obama is running against him… and a lot of my friends and family that are Hillary supporters are going to do the same… the media needs to stop protecting Obama.

NC4Obama   March 19th, 2008 4:59 pm ET

Obama, I don't hold you responsible for what your former Pastor said……the ones who say they wouldn't vote for you because of something Rev. Wright said means that they weren't going to vote for you anyway. I will continue to admire your stength and integrity.

Mr. Huckabee came to your defense and I'm proud of him for that.

VIVIAN   March 19th, 2008 4:59 pm ET

Joe, He did NOT say that. He siad he had heard him say contraversial things before but he was not at the church when the reverend said the stuff you heard. He was not lying. You don't know the truth when you hear it!

Brenda   March 19th, 2008 4:59 pm ET

Joe,

Don't be a hater.

Len   March 19th, 2008 4:59 pm ET

Correction: Obama admitted he had sat in the pastor's church through some sermons that bore some of the messages we heard, but not in that particular one being shown everywhere. He had also said, he disagreed with the pastor and made his opinion known to him.

marilyn   March 19th, 2008 4:59 pm ET

If Obama was as much of a gentleman as everyone says he is, he should get out of the race now. Then there wouldn"t be any problems for the democrates. I don"t know how any true american could vote for him now. Wonder if his kids have heard the preacher speak. Think how confused they could be. If he does get elected, I'm really scared for this country.

yett0004   March 19th, 2008 4:59 pm ET

You continually tell us all of the ways that you will be a better president than Clinton and that you are more likely to win the Presidency against McCain than Clinton and now you're telling us that the odds are against you winning?

This nomination isn't about being able to tell people that you were cool enough to make the Democratic nomination, this nomination is about becoming our next leader. If you believe that the odds are against you, maybe you should just drop out…

Andrienne   March 19th, 2008 4:59 pm ET

Obama, I am with you and the American people are behind you. We are praying for you. Do not be discouraged.

CHERYL   March 19th, 2008 4:59 pm ET

HERE IS A BOOK FOR YOU!!!!!!

THE AUDACITY OF OBAMA!!!!!!!!

maggie   March 19th, 2008 4:58 pm ET

Please…didn't he lied to Anderson Cooper just days ago about quiting the church if he knew about wright's comments? and now he's claiming he's fighting the odds because he's black. cry fowl when you are desperate..the ugliness is beginning to show on Obama.

Slick   March 19th, 2008 4:58 pm ET

Rules were broken. "but it's not fair" wha wawa wawa!

Get over it we can live with 2 less states.

bo   March 19th, 2008 4:58 pm ET

Way to go Michigan and Florida, don't follow the rules and expect to get away with it. Sounds like a bunch of Bushies to me.

Juan Gonzalez   March 19th, 2008 4:58 pm ET

In my opinion the "We had tremendous success" like he said is just because the american people did now what they now now about his controversial if I will said "Spritul Adviser".

Dan in Chicago   March 19th, 2008 4:58 pm ET

I don't get how Barack thinks his campaign is different from everyone else's. That campaign is so full of itself.

Maria   March 19th, 2008 4:58 pm ET

Why is Michigan and Florida an issue. The rules are the rules.

Hillary supporter   March 19th, 2008 4:58 pm ET

to joe:

Are we the only people who caught this? Why are people ignoring the truth. I knew the Harvard grad would give a big speech and lecture us on race relations. I'm so offended by it all. Offended that he really thinks we are all stupid. Not so, Mr. Obama!!

kenny   March 19th, 2008 4:58 pm ET

People get over it and move on and joe you wasn't vote for him anyway

BK   March 19th, 2008 4:58 pm ET

And today he is the victim. He lied and thought the American people were so stupid they would believe anything he said. This is the man that runs on honest, hope, and change? He is no longer electable.

Kevin   March 19th, 2008 4:58 pm ET

How about we sell Florida to Cuba and turn Michigan into a national park to help out with the national debt.

Kimberly   March 19th, 2008 4:57 pm ET

If he is getting shaken up now, he better quit! THERE IS MUCH MORE COMING OUT ON HIS PAST AND HE KNOWS IT! OBAMA CAN NOT BE TRUSTED!

Gene from NM   March 19th, 2008 4:57 pm ET

Senator Obama made an eloquent statement of the issues, but he went out of his way to address his white grandmother’s racism. What purpose did it serve? His pastor’s own words contradict his statement that his pastor is not racially biased. He never mentioned Louis Farrakan’s radical racial and religious bias – a man lauded by his church. It would appear he believes racism is a one way street. If we cannot bridge the chasm across the various communities with a fair and balanced approach, we will not succeed in improving the racial issues within our great country.

anandamide   March 19th, 2008 4:57 pm ET

joe:

he said he hadn't heard the specific comments being broadcast but that he had heard the pastor make controversial statements in the past. no lie. know your facts before you SPEAK IN CAPITALS. ENOUGH SAID.

David   March 19th, 2008 4:57 pm ET

Obama you inaction (staying in this church when these racist statements were made) speaks louder than any words even you can speak.

Will the party now have to move forward with you as a wounded candidate?

How will America fair under John McCain?

Will you put the nations needs above your own and get in a room with Hillary and work something out.?

Time for more than words sir.

patt   March 19th, 2008 4:57 pm ET

Obama denied he sat and listened to several specific speeches where Reverand Wright made specific inflamatory remarks. He never said he had not hear any negative remarks from Reverand Wright.

I don't believe Obama is a weekly church attender and it was determined he was not at the services mentioned.

Bob   March 19th, 2008 4:56 pm ET

Even if they do not find a way to seat the deligates they should at least count the votes in the head count for the candidates. After all it is not the people who voted that messed up it is the state government.

Carolyn   March 19th, 2008 4:56 pm ET

if this wright situation "shook him up" I would hate to see how he reacts to the next terrorist attack

Al   March 19th, 2008 4:56 pm ET

Hey Joe,

Go vote for the candidate that won't lie to you or hasn't lied you already. Let me know how that works out.

I'm going to vote for the one whose lie hasn't cost a million lives and trillions of dollars.

nick   March 19th, 2008 4:56 pm ET

Joe needs to check his facts….and his CAPS lock. And his….over…..use…..of…. ….. ….'s

John   March 19th, 2008 4:56 pm ET

They have an explanation for everything … Michelle Obama's horrible comment, Canada-NAFTA-gate, and now Wright … I hope Anderson Cooper asked some tough questions – I like watching CNN – its more even-handed than MSNBC – which I don't watch anymore because it has gotten so ridiculous – their reporters may as well be on Obama's campaign payroll.

Michael in Charlotte   March 19th, 2008 4:56 pm ET

Joe you most be planing on voting. You think Mccain and Clinton have told the whole true 100% of the time? Ted what your saying your agreeing it's Un – American to follow the rules? Michigan and Florida and the Candidates knew the vote would count before hand and Obama wasn't even on the Ballot in Michigan.

Jose'   March 19th, 2008 4:56 pm ET

It will be great to see how he handles a threat of wiping out thousands of Americans.

Geeesh. Obama, your 15 minutes are up.

SAM   March 19th, 2008 4:56 pm ET

That speech was for adults. If you did not get the message , have your mom's permission before you get to adults business.
Go Obama.

truth be told   March 19th, 2008 4:56 pm ET

Joe, you are obviously misinformed… but then again, you don't really care, 'cause you just want you candidate to WIN AT ALL COST.

Sad…

Sen. Obama is the most honest and genuine individual running for President left in the race… and by FAR

OBAMA/Richardson 08

mj   March 19th, 2008 4:56 pm ET

Obama said he has heard Wright make controversial statements however it has been documented that he didn't attend the service when the statement that has become so well versed was made. Let's move on to the more important issues facing us such as the economy and leave race and religion out of it

Anonymous   March 19th, 2008 4:56 pm ET

Hillary, I thought you said in January that "the votes in Michigan don't count for anything"? Did you at that time think about "empowering the American people" as you so forthrightly put it now?
This also a critical test for you now. Did you mean what you said then? Can you try and keep your word?

Politics! Before you go trying to take out the splint in someone else's eye, why don't you take out the log in yours first.

And to think I had thought about voting for this woman! Talk about being disingenious!!!

Daniel   March 19th, 2008 4:56 pm ET

I started to disbelieve OBAMA, not because of he is black or white. Because he attended the anti-American church for 20+ yrs and claimed never heard the speeches made by his mentor. What a lie!!! Then he said he heard some speeches but strongly disagree. Change of mind, not change of country.

So many people died for this great country. So many people work day in and day out for this great country. How could you be the command-in-chief when you held close tie with anti-America church. Disgusting!!!

Deeds speak louder than words, Obama!!!

Mike Birmingham, AL   March 19th, 2008 4:56 pm ET

Joe -

Obama never said he was in attendance at that sermon. Records show him giving a speech in Florida.

Now who's the liar?

Ben   March 19th, 2008 4:56 pm ET

Wow, lot of people talking in caps, and a lot of people taking comments out of context. If you are going to accuse Obama of lying, you may want to cite some references. I believe, that if you do a little research and read exactly what is being said, you would realize you are overreacting and incorrect.

Joe   March 19th, 2008 4:55 pm ET

This … "shook you up" …… ?

You need to get some "lessons" from Hillary ….. concerning how to handle "being shook!"

She's been maligned by masters …. and still standing.

Alan   March 19th, 2008 4:55 pm ET

Has anyone else noticed the Black Panthers link on Obama's website or has it been taken down already?

Don - Kansas   March 19th, 2008 4:55 pm ET

The HRC do anything to win strategy will hurt Hillary and Bill in the long run. It is time for her to step aside so we won't hear the screaming after she finally realizes she can't win, even by trying to reneg on her Sept. 2007 agreement that Michigan and Florida wouldn't count.

Liz   March 19th, 2008 4:55 pm ET

For someone that speaks about using judgement, Obama did not use very good judgement the last 20 years. He chose to participate in one of largest most controversial African American churches in the U.S.

MDP   March 19th, 2008 4:55 pm ET

People, There are rules to follow here. Obama has said he supports what the DNC recommends. Florida and Michigan broke the rules. Why is Hillary so desperate? Bill never acted like this. What Hillary says does not matter to America anymore.

Dont get caught up in the smoke screen

Very Concerned American   March 19th, 2008 4:55 pm ET

Of course Obama doesn't want Michigan and Florida seated.
There are over 500 delegates. This would change the delegate lead to Clintons favor.

Wake up America!!!!!!!!!!

Angel   March 19th, 2008 4:55 pm ET

God are people so dumb he said that he had heared the Paster make comments before not that comment in question …

Jesus……. sometimes i wonder if people understand english………
I guess it is true that uneducated people are Hillary supporters..
oh yea please post my comment for once !!!!! thanks

Ryan   March 19th, 2008 4:55 pm ET

In regards to Joe:

I was pretty sure Obama was not present during that particular sermon, and that's all he had said…? Undoubtedly Obama would have heard about it from someone else, and I'm not sure he has disputed that.

Maybe I heard wrong…but the man just doesn't strike me as a liar. Perhaps I'm simply naive though.

Letha, Sioux Falls, SD   March 19th, 2008 4:55 pm ET

More whining. You should have thought of all of this before you got into the ring. If you think it's tough now…just wait. Your comments and "feel sorry for me" is starting to be your motto. You still sat in a pew and listened to that man degrade every American and you still defend him. Your children listened and you were fine. So far, I all hear is nothing from you except pity because you got caught.

Aaron   March 19th, 2008 4:55 pm ET

I'm getting sick of HRC supporters calling Obama a liar because of the supposed 'contradiction' in his statements. He NEVER claimed to be unaware of Wright's controversial preaching. He merely claimed to not be present for the sermons/topics in question, and there's absolutely NO evidence to suggest he was present. That's it. People are so quick to judge an entire church based off 5 minutes of hand-selected clips from 35 years of sermons. It is the people who can't seem to get over this issue and accept his account that are distorting the truth and doing the race-baiting.

Lorraine   March 19th, 2008 4:54 pm ET

I totally agree with Obama. Everyone knew the rules from the onset and now that HRC is losing miserably, she wants the votes to count. I am going to go out on a limb here, but, my guess is that if it was the other way around – HRC would be fighting tooth over nail not to have the votes count. Everyone played by the rules BUT HRC…be clear on that and now, she is trying to pull Obama's card about it?

Please, give me a break.

Obama '08

Thom Knight   March 19th, 2008 4:54 pm ET

It is absolutely not true that Senator Clinton suddenly became "extraordinarily concerned with the voters" in Florida and Michigan. Senator Clinton went to Florida the night she won the primary in Florida and said that she would find a way to seat the delegates from FL. At that time, she was still the front runner.

Senator Obama, please be a little honest and less political when you're accusing others of being "political." You change and twist your words so often and to me, you are the one who would "say anything to get elected" although your campaign keeps accusing Senator Clinton as such.

Enough! Play fair.

jj langdon   March 19th, 2008 4:54 pm ET

The more i think the greater grows my conviction that this primary election between Barack Obama and Hilory Clinton will be nothing but democracy without a taste of democracy.It's strange because you have rules and laws yet these politiions are considaring breaking the very rules they establish but we must understand that in the dictionary polatics is factual skemming with in a group

Diana   March 19th, 2008 4:54 pm ET

Hillary Clinton has a proven record of years of dedication and service to our country. Obama is like the new kid on the block that you have to get to know. Quite frankly, in the shape that our country is in right, we can't afford to take any risks. For America's sake, please vote for the
person with the proven record-Hillary!

Mindy   March 19th, 2008 4:54 pm ET

If this "shakes" you – how are you going to handle real crisis in the White House? Again I think this is just more proof you are no ready for this job

Bill   March 19th, 2008 4:54 pm ET

What is Obama looking for pity again, calling himself a non-conventional candidate? What does that mean anyway? Maybe he means the uncoventional way he has of not telling the truth. I guess he feels Americans should overlook the fact he lied about hearing the comments by Wright, lied about how much funding he received from Rezko, lied about being in a race for the senate when he gave his anti-war speech at a anti-war rally. I guess if you can give a good speech you can get away with just about anything these days.

Rashawn   March 19th, 2008 4:54 pm ET

Hilary has Lied on numerous occasions. Why is no one looking into that? This is one reason why she does not want to release her tax return until after the Pen. primaries. She has lied about her involvement in receiving the money from Peter Paul when there is video taped evidence of wanting to give thanks for him donating to her campaign in 2000. Now who lied?

123   March 19th, 2008 4:54 pm ET

"More safe" is not proper English.

Cyrus Martin, Euless Texas   March 19th, 2008 4:54 pm ET

He did not lie. He said that he did not hear "Those comments" while in attendance. He did hear other comments though and he has denounced them. Sheesh

Kerri   March 19th, 2008 4:54 pm ET

Have we forgotten that Michigan and Florida were the ones that scheduled their primaries ahead of the usual time, and now they (including Hillary) do not want to pay the consequences. They shouldn't be allowed to "re-vote" just because it is a close race. They made their decision to vote early and should have to deal with it.

Carlos, NY   March 19th, 2008 4:53 pm ET

Joe/Ted in Chicago

How many blog entries will you make with different names? Or is it Clinton supporters all have the same writing styles and write in CAPS.

Mac in FL   March 19th, 2008 4:53 pm ET

We now know who you really are Barack – a chameleon in a nice suit.

tom   March 19th, 2008 4:53 pm ET

Joe–

Read more carefully. When he heard ABOUT the sermons, not heard the sermons.

If he had lied about his presence there or having heard the sermons themselves, don't you think the media would have hammered him on that?

NY Dem   March 19th, 2008 4:53 pm ET

Joe you are wrong.. he said he had not heard THOSE PARTICULAR youtube soundbytes that were played over and over. He had always said that he had heard certain comments that he did not agree with.

Stop twisting words people! Read the facts.

Very Concerned American   March 19th, 2008 4:53 pm ET

Barack is lying and continues to lie. He has lied about his involvement with his pastor. He has lied about his ties with Rezko.
He has lied about his background.

How many more lies are we letting this candidate get away with?

Listen to Me   March 19th, 2008 4:53 pm ET

Why is this still being talked about? Why doesn't someone at CNN expose The Clinton Chronicles, or the other film made by an ex Clinton supporter "Hillary Clinton: It's All A Big Lie"..? Doesn't CNN care if she gets elected or hasn't Bush done enough to ruin the reptuation of the USA?

Geoff Smith   March 19th, 2008 4:53 pm ET

Barack Obama is one of the few politicians that has been wililng to take on issues honestly and forthrightly. Racism is still a huge issue in this country. It's time for us to have a president that can help us move forward and heal from the mistakes of our past.

MI and FL are part of America right?   March 19th, 2008 4:53 pm ET

You don't get a re do in elections, no matter how much you make it sound like a Rocky sequel. Hillary is la la land on this and so are the people calling for it. I will say this, no matter who wins, I will likely vote Democrat, although I will puke if its Hillary. No way I vote Demo if they cave in on MI and FL, no matter who is the nominee, I will squander my vote on Ralph baby. And For the DNC now to basically point to the Obama campaign as in the way is about the biggest gayest action I can think of.

AA   March 19th, 2008 4:52 pm ET

Lier!!! American doesn't need lier.

David   March 19th, 2008 4:52 pm ET

After hearing your speach yesterday on Race I regret my support for Hillary rather than you. You are a great brave leader with the right vision to lead us forward.
Hillary, please give me my vote back.

Susan   March 19th, 2008 4:52 pm ET

My respect for Obama is reaching new heights. Not only has he proven that he is the superior politician, he has proven he is the superior individual. Sadly, I believe he won't get the nomination because the majority of the populace does not have the strength, intelligence or personal integrity to stand with him.

Independent   March 19th, 2008 4:52 pm ET

Senator Obama is answering like a mature person honestly and with wisdom. Racism from any angle is the most challenging issue facing our nation and has to be addressed in a balanced way. He is doing this effectively and admirably. I hope that others support this important dialog and dont undermine its effectiveness will political positioning.

Faith   March 19th, 2008 4:51 pm ET

If it was understood prior to the primaries that the delegates from Florida and Michigan would not be seated if they held their primaries early, and they held the primaries early anyway, Then Florida and Michigan are to blame, not Barack Obama. What's unfair is for Hillary Clinton to want to change the rules just because she is behind in the delegate count. Regarding Barack Obama's pastor…we'd all be stunned to hear the truth about about how the majority of people feel about other races. If walls could talk!

Brenda Holt   March 19th, 2008 4:51 pm ET

Joe

If you don't want to vote for the man, then don't, but don't be a hater. I bet you tell the truth all the time.

Cocteau   March 19th, 2008 4:51 pm ET

I think we can agree Obama is not what he proclaims to be and his 'pie-in-the-sky' is starting to fall.

Hewitt   March 19th, 2008 4:51 pm ET

I think that Michigan and Florida should re-vote, but those politicians involved in the early primary scandal should pay the consequences somehow, be it monetarily or politically.

Sara   March 19th, 2008 4:51 pm ET

Ted in Chicago,
Clinton agreed to rules and now wants to change, since things are not going her way. What part of thid don't you understand? OBAMA 08′

Drew   March 19th, 2008 4:51 pm ET

Racism in this country can break anyones spirit unfortunately.

Very Concerned American   March 19th, 2008 4:51 pm ET

The only fair thing to do is seat delegates and revote!

amanda   March 19th, 2008 4:51 pm ET

Oh please. If Hillary had lost either of those states, then she wouldn't want them counted at all. The DNC agreed to all this BEFORE those states voted, so to go back on an agreement because it suits your personal goal is selfish and villainous. Besides, she's lucky here because if Michigan were to re-vote, Obama would easily win.

Rashawn   March 19th, 2008 4:51 pm ET

I feel as though his speech yesterday should put this behind us and we should get back to the issues. I am tired of the negative ads. Hilary Clinton has said why is the media being so hard on her and not Obama. The media completely skipped over the civil suit on Bill Clinton and her role in the 1.2 million dollars donated to her campaign during her 2000 election for senate. Why is no one looking into that? They look up youtube snippets of Obama's pastor. There are youtube snippets of this issue at hand. Everyone should take a look at it. "the video hilary clinton wants no one to watch." Why is CNN nor any other news broadcasting this?

Enrique   March 19th, 2008 4:51 pm ET

Hillary and the Vast Right Wing are shamelessly attacking Barack's church in the hopes that we'll all forget about the nearly 4,000 American lives that have been lost in Iraq and the billions of dollars that have been spent there.

vic nashville,Tn   March 19th, 2008 4:51 pm ET

Hi Obama
Its too late to discuss !!!!!

julie   March 19th, 2008 4:51 pm ET

Obama is beginning to sound like a mad scientist, you have to wonder, What in the he– is he talking about half the time, And dont even get me started on his arrogance! or flat out for all the country to see his,, lies…..

Dave, Santa Barbara CA   March 19th, 2008 4:51 pm ET

He didn't lie. He said he heard controversial statements but he never did claim he was there for those statements. Either way, I cannot support him saying he would have quit the church. Confrontation is healthier.

todd   March 19th, 2008 4:51 pm ET

joe
he didn't lie. he said he was in church when Wright made some controversial remarks but NOT the remarks that are currently under fire.

Mike   March 19th, 2008 4:51 pm ET

Wolf,
Qualifying for President is about experience and every American knows this. To this end, why don't you show some intellectual honesty and challenge Obama or his surrogates when they say "Change" trumps expeirence. If what they espouse were true you and your cohorts would be looking for a new job as hiring someone right out of broadcasting school with no experience is change!

On the re-vote…if this does not happen the Democratic party is finished!

JoeT Warrenton VA   March 19th, 2008 4:51 pm ET

How many more "Rev. Wrights" are in Senator Obama's circle of advisors, and how many of them will be in the cabinet of President Obama.

julie   March 19th, 2008 4:50 pm ET

Obama's entire platform has been based on being open and honest–supposedly different than politics as usual. It has become blatantly obvious that he did indeed lie about knowing about the awful words screamed by his beloved pastor. This simply confirms that just because Obama can give a motivating speech, does not mean that he is telling the truth…so is he really as different as he claims to be??

Janice   March 19th, 2008 4:50 pm ET

Shut up already Barack! Enoough of your talk!

Daniel Jurek   March 19th, 2008 4:50 pm ET

Senator Obama does not appear to understand the true meaning or definition of the word, "Judgement!" It took Senator Obama several decades to investigate his Paster Mr. Wright's credentials. It took Senator under significant pressure a matter of months to decide if the war against Iraq was justifiable. Even then, Senator Clinton had to make her decision to vote for or against the war on the propaganda President Bush was delivering. Judgement as I, and most Americans see it, depends on how long an individual is given the opportunity to evaluate a decision and the timeliness one has to make that decision. Senator Obama had twenty or more years, not a time frame Senator Clinton was afforded. If my memory serves me correctly, Mr. Obama was only a congressman then. He took advantage of that opportunity, and played neutral for as long as he could.

Ann   March 19th, 2008 4:50 pm ET

From the comments I've heard from Obama and his supporters, it doesn't sound like he wants a revote in Florida or Michigan. I'm one of those disenfranchised Florida Democratic voters. A revote is a moot point for me, though – I've since changed parties.

janet in wv   March 19th, 2008 4:50 pm ET

will he had lied befor and he will again i never did trust him i am happy that other's are seeing him for what he is,

Roger B from Portland, OR   March 19th, 2008 4:50 pm ET

Joe and everyone else who doesn't get it.

He said he never heard THOSE statements, that he wasn't at THOSE services. He said in his speech that he had heard SOME contraversal things but clearly nothing to this extent and not those particular things. Most Reverands are constantly writing new services, keeping things fresh.

Armi   March 19th, 2008 4:50 pm ET

Joe (4:23pm ET):

Barack was asked if he had heard "those comments" (refering to the video snippets played on YouTube). His response was he was not in the church when (the YouTube) "comments" were made.

In Barack's speech yesterday he said he had heard controversial comments (during the times he was in church) and that he disagreed with them. But in his speech he was not referring to the ones played on YouTube.

So no, he did not lie. He answered the question directly in the first case, and during his speech he had the integrety to admit that there were other times when the pastor made objectionable comments.

Again, he did not lie. In fact he was not only forthright, but completely transparent.

Brian in Tampa   March 19th, 2008 4:50 pm ET

You HRC backers are something else. Don't you get it!? HRC wanted nothing to do with the voters of Florida OR Michigan until she thought she needed the votes. PERIOD! Now all of a sudden they MUST be counted. Typical of HRC politics. Do whatever you have to do to win. Lie, cheat, steal, take improper donations, change the rules as the game goes along, etc., etc…..

I live in Florida. We have no one to blame for our delegates not being seated but our REPUBLICAN governor who moved the primary!

BTW, how dare ANY of you try to say that Obama's speach yesterday was not anything other than historic.

Edwin Portland   March 19th, 2008 4:50 pm ET

I hope Obama and the DNC do the right thing and enforce the rules that were laid out. The states that willingly and purposely broke the rules should suffer the consequences. The Bush like thought that the rules are only applicable when convenient has no place in America.

Not Obama   March 19th, 2008 4:50 pm ET

Obama,

Are you a fighter for the people?? Then why are you against re-vote.

If you want to represent people and be a president and a Leader you shouldn't be afraid of revote.

If you want to be the President of United States then be loyal to American People especially do not ignore FL and MI people.

If you want to be a Leader make better judgements. One of the good judgements here is counting the vote of people of MI FL. If you want to be a leader then don't be coward. Be Brave and ask for a re-vote.

If you cannot fight for the people of FL and MI. Then we don't want you to represent us.

This is a test for you to see wheather you have leadership qualities. A Leader should be Brave and not a coward like to ignore the people

Very Concerned American   March 19th, 2008 4:50 pm ET

Barack should allow Michigan to vote. How dare Obama not respond.

Bruce   March 19th, 2008 4:50 pm ET

Obama's true color eventually comes out. The most troubling thing is that he acts so natually and spoke eloquently even when he's lying. And he called himself the man with better judgement?!

Lynne   March 19th, 2008 4:50 pm ET

So, Senator Obama is playing the race card once again.

Susan   March 19th, 2008 4:50 pm ET

For Joe, who thinks Barak lied to him.

No Barak Obama did not lie yesterday-listen to the speech again. He said he had heard TAPES of sermons, not that he had been in the pews when they were first given.

Sara   March 19th, 2008 4:49 pm ET

Of course we all know this "Overblown" Pastor issue was leaked by Clinton. OBAMA 08′ Does this compare to Hillary's crying?

jason from woodbridge nj   March 19th, 2008 4:49 pm ET

people are blowing this subject way out of proportion. it sad to see a large number of people condemn obama for something he had no control over. he is no different from the rest of us. we all have friends and family members who have said deragatory things we are not proud of. can we please stop playing wright's youtube video over and over again and focus on the real issues? america will never move forward if we're stuck on this archie bunker mentality.

Suburban Ohio mom   March 19th, 2008 4:49 pm ET

What did Mr. Obama mean by his odds are lower than other conventional candidates? Is he referring to his race with that comment? Or his unconventionality, which includes his race? That statement definitely is worthy of an explanation, AC!!

It does seem that Mr. Obama is not going out of his way to insure Michigan and Florida primaries are redone. So I believe an argument could be made that Mr. Obama does not care at all if those people are disenfranchised?

He will definitely have a tough time returning to Ohio in the general election if he is lucky to get there!!!

Veterans for Obama   March 19th, 2008 4:49 pm ET

Ted in Chicago…..Did you read the article? Obama has stated repeatedely that it is not up to the candidates to make the rules, but the DNC. That is why we have a DNC. He will do as they wish. Hillary is using this for political ammo because she's desperate. Can't you see her strategy? Typical Clinton.

M   March 19th, 2008 4:49 pm ET

Whatever happened to not running your campaign on race?

Len   March 19th, 2008 4:49 pm ET

Disingenuous is putting it pretty lightly. Seriously, Hillary is the dirtiest, nastiest politician out there. Sounds like my ex-wife.

Mike   March 19th, 2008 4:49 pm ET

joe,
He said he heard "of them," not heard them directly. That's what he's always said. You're grasping for straws.

Peg   March 19th, 2008 4:49 pm ET

Joe and Ted, you are asking the wrong questions and stating untrue statements. Joe, Obama said he was not at church sitting in the pews when the 30 second sound bite we've heard 10,000 times was voiced…..so don't misquote him. Get over it, seems like there's alot more problems in this country than Dr. Wright and his 30 second sound bite.

Ted: Too late, too costly, possibly fraudulent…..etc. would be the do-over in Michigan and Florida. Plus, your Candidate didn't care very much about our disenfranchisement when the rules were enacted and our Democratic primary was nothing more than a "beauty contest." Open you eyes, look at the facts!

P.S.
I reside in Michigan…

Hermione   March 19th, 2008 4:49 pm ET

raf – Yes, if they take Crybaby Obama with them.

Hillary '08

John L   March 19th, 2008 4:49 pm ET

Joe, If you can Read with understanding. He said he didn't hear the sermons which was on the clips the media over saturated us with in the past two weeks. He didn't deny hearing other things that may not have been as negative, whith which he said he confronted the Rev.

Lets not get the facts blurred. He didn't hear those sermons on tape and those are the only sermons we have had the privage to be exposed to. It would be nice to see if there are other less hostile sermons that Wright has preached in the past.

boo hoo joe   March 19th, 2008 4:49 pm ET

he was in florida when the rev made that crazy speech from the pit. Get over it. I hope that not everybody is judged by the priest that molest little boys just because they so happen to be members of their church

ShannonL   March 19th, 2008 4:49 pm ET

""In some ways this, this controversy has actually shaken me up a little bit and gotten me back into remembering that the odds of me getting elected have always been lower than than some of the other conventional candidates," the Illinois senator told CNN's Anderson Cooper in an exclusive one-on-one interview. "

Did he just play the race card?!?!?!?

Tracy   March 19th, 2008 4:49 pm ET

Obama, the man of change, is no different than the politicians he condemns. Obama will say anything and do anything to win the election. The only difference between him and every other ordinary politician is that he is eloquent speaker…..liar.

FloridaWho?   March 19th, 2008 4:49 pm ET

Obama said "…less of a chance than some of the other conventional candiates." How could anyone imply that a woman presidential nominee would be "conventional?" This is just another subtle example of the "race card" being played. If there is something else that he could have meant by the work "conventional", then someone please shed some light on this.

sak   March 19th, 2008 4:49 pm ET

I like the fact that this man OBAMA is really not running a conventional campaign. Come on folks, give every one a break…..as if we never lie….Even if lied, he made a remarkable speech to clear his views….

JAY   March 19th, 2008 4:49 pm ET

joe, he did not say he was at the sermon. he said he had heard comments made by the pastor that he disagreed with…not these particular comments…it has been PROVEN that he was in florida when that particular sermon was given. get your facts straight before posting please

Kevin   March 19th, 2008 4:49 pm ET

Joe, even if you type it in all caps, your opinion is not a fact. Mr. Obama did not lie. You are mixing up the facts and slandering a person who is trying hard to bring about new politics and a new way of thinking.

And Ted… you really support somebody who implies that the other candidate is un-American? That's old-think in my book. Sounds reminiscent of the 1950s. It's really disheartening and more so leads me to believe that Mrs. Clinton will not really have new ideas and visions for this country, but more of the same-old same.

Obama is the only candidate in this race who has the vision, the judgement and the ability to lead and unite and change politics as usual.

Edwin Portland   March 19th, 2008 4:49 pm ET

Honesty, accountability, standing up for what's right, talking to Americans as adults, you Hillary folks are right, this guy isn't ready for Washington.

Audrey   March 19th, 2008 4:48 pm ET

Raf – They done it to themselves. The elected officials opted to break the rules and Hillary Clinton went along, now why all the hue and cry? These are the consequences of breaking rules.

ROBERT SORENSON   March 19th, 2008 4:48 pm ET

Barack's speech about race in this campaign was historic. It sets him apart, positively, from conventional politics. He spoke to the conscience of the nation.

Illinois   March 19th, 2008 4:48 pm ET

His campaign has been irreperably damaged due to his own behavior. He can't continue to lie to people and expect there to be no consequences for it.

Andrew Koran   March 19th, 2008 4:48 pm ET

I voted "uncommitted" in the Michigan primary. I am an Sen. Obama supporter. Sen. Clinton knew the rules before the date of the Michigan primary was chosen as did our Governor and other legislators. Rules are rules. Now the people who are complaining the most should suffer the consequences of their earlier decision.

Now that it is politically expedient for Sen. Clinton she has determined to pursue Michigan and Florida voters in desperate hopes of winning the nomination.

Sig, Los Angeles CA   March 19th, 2008 4:48 pm ET

Joe,

Don't take the man out of context given that millions have watched and READ his speech. He didn't say he heard those specific comments which people have asked about, he said he has heard Wright use language and expose political positions he did not agree with. And lets be frank, you were NOT going to vote for him anyway – everyone knows, so stop pretending.

Jay   March 19th, 2008 4:48 pm ET

Poor Poor Obama..If he cant take it now he will NEVER make it in the election!!

IveyLeague   March 19th, 2008 4:48 pm ET

No. Obama was on the campaign trail during the Dec 7th speech. However, to diffuse this constant critique, Obama proactively stated that he knew that Rev. Wright had some controversial views.

In fact, he answered this same question back in early 2006, fall 2007, January, 2008, and in the historic March 18th speech.

WHY NOT MICHIGAN?
It has been documented that millions of voters did not vote or voted in the Republican primary due to the DNC's decision. Now, HRC wants these voters not to be able to vote in the Re-Vote.

Who is disenfranchising who? Obama backs a plan to let all voters vote per Michigan's own voting rules.

john   March 19th, 2008 4:48 pm ET

What? It should shake you up Senator Obama! Once again you LIED to the American People. You said you never sat at any function in which your Preacher spoke these racist, Hateful and Divisive comments. Then you go on the News and state you had sat through these comments before. Canadian Official Meeting "You Lied", NAFTA "You Lied" and now Wright-Gate, another lie?? My question to the American People is : " How many Lies does it take to get to the White House"??

deborah   March 19th, 2008 4:48 pm ET

Obama you might accuse Hillary of Old Politics, but after you bargain with the white voters in your speech with your High level oratory skills were does that leave you, ill tell you exactly in the same place. We already know that your a smart guy but you are not intuch with the simpl people with the hard working people. tell me do you really think people understood you newsflash they didnt. so I give you a 10 for your speach and a 3 with connecting with the same people that have given so much for this country

michael, ny   March 19th, 2008 4:48 pm ET

Joe, have a little respect for yourself and stop being dishonest. Blantly lying to destroy your opponent is not a character one should have.

Obama said he had not heard the specific comments before but had heard the pastor make other comments in the past.

As to MI revote, that deal is dead. Check politico.com

Dan G.   March 19th, 2008 4:48 pm ET

I would like to add, on Friday nights 360 Anderson Cooper all but apologized for having to report this story; which I thought was pretty close to showing political bias on this subject. I hope Anderson's current ride with Mr. Obama isn't his way of trying to provide support for Mr. Obama, but rather to report the news vice try to place a spin on the news. It was an important story Friday and it is just as important today.

Very Concerned American   March 19th, 2008 4:48 pm ET

Barack better agree with the revotes in Michigan or he will be unAmerican. Period.

Celia Ann   March 19th, 2008 4:48 pm ET

The odds are against him, that unfortunately is one part of Rev Wright's sermon that is true. Senator Clinton is now blaming him for Michigan Delegates not being seated and her not getting a re-do in Michigan. I live in Michigan and have contacted every democratic law maker in the State to not to vote for a Re-Do until she discloses everything she should.

It is rediculous that she use "voter's rights" in this argument, especially not in Detroit, Flint, Saginaw. It won't work. In these depressed areas, people are not just going to cave in and give her our votes, and the same goes for Senator Obama. You guys grilled him. In his words, you "shook him up." Her tree is bigger and requires a lot more shaking.

It has not been fair that the media has covered for a week Rev Wright. and not covered all of her problems. Whether you believe Rev Wright was as wrong as too left shoes, or not, you let voters make thier own decision. You have not applied the same rules in this sitation CNN.

Anna Sacramento, Ca   March 19th, 2008 4:48 pm ET

Well now everyone knows that Obama is indeed a politician through and through. Let's see so far he has thrown his grandmother under a bus by comparing her to Rev. Wright, lied to us and allowed his children to listen to horrible sermons, used the race card and still wants to disenfranchise Michigan and Florida. What kind of change is that? Sounds like he REALLY has the judgement to be president.

Bill, IL   March 19th, 2008 4:48 pm ET

He's at it again…calling Clinton completely disingenuous with attempting to get the Florida and Michigan delegates seated. She was saying that they needed to be seated before their elections and afterward. We are not that forgetful Barack! We also won't forget your service to your own state…you dirty power seeker.

CB   March 19th, 2008 4:48 pm ET

Why should he agree to something Hillary wants for her benefit? Michigan and Florida have their own in-state politicians to blame for this mess. Give it a rest Clinton, the MI and FL people said NO! Spin up something else to blame for your lower delegate count.

Peace   March 19th, 2008 4:47 pm ET

Hey, if Michigan and Florida don't get their votes counted, can we stop paying taxes????

Sue   March 19th, 2008 4:47 pm ET

Obama needs to step down to save the Democrats from a landslide defeat in November. His lack of experience and poor judgment in staying in that church with his racist, anti-American mentor and spiritual advisor says a lot about who he is and what he stands for.

Most Republicans, Independents and even a lot of Democrats are not buying into his twisted logic. Comparing his white grandmother who sacrificed and raised him to Reverend Wright was disgusting. There is nothing he won't do or say to get himself elected President.

Bayou Joe   March 19th, 2008 4:47 pm ET

The odds just got a little bigger and bigger. Just like your nose pinochio. Birds of a feather flock together. No one can convince me and my family otherwise. People of all races and creeds tend to congregate with people with the same or similar ways of thinking.
Did Obama really think that the American electorate was that gullible?

tda   March 19th, 2008 4:47 pm ET

I think Hilary is the liar and the one playing politics. When the votes did not matter to her, she was MORE THAN WILLING to dismiss them. Now that she needs them to even have a snowballs chance in hell to win the nomination all of a sudden the voters matter so deeply to her. What a crock!! At least Obama speaks to us as adults with a memory of recent events, not as idiots like she does!

Chris - Hemet, Ca.   March 19th, 2008 4:47 pm ET

Didn't all the candidates agree and sign a pledge at the beginning of the campaign that Florida and Michigan would not count because they moved up the primary dates? Didn't all the candidates agree not to campaign in either state? Didn't seem to bother Sen. Clinton then. It only began to be a factor when her nomination wasn't neatly secured by Super Tuesday. She flatly underestimated Sen. Obama…..poor judgement on her part.

RT   March 19th, 2008 4:47 pm ET

Hey Ted,

Yeah, he said he is up for a re-vote. What article are you reading? BTW, your candidate signed off on Michigan and Florida not counting last year. Why act like she is actually trying to help them now. Stop your spin on this story. You probably believe that Barack really is the one blocking the re-vote don't you? You are gobbling up all the lies Hillary is hand-feeding you.

True   March 19th, 2008 4:47 pm ET

It's true that you can not disown the individual who holds views similar to Rev. Wright without in a way rejecting the whole African American community. Certainly not all black people feel that way, but most probably know someone who does, someone they like and care about. I'm a white gal from Chicago and many of the older black folks I know hold those views. You can't change their minds and it is painful to hear those thoughts, partially because I love my country and partly because I know where they are rooted. It's pointless to argue, too many raw nerves on both sides, but if you like the person and look at all the wonderful qualities in their personalities then you choose to overlook and agree to disagree.

Andre   March 19th, 2008 4:47 pm ET

barack obama is my president. He makes HRC and mcain look like one and the same

nancy   March 19th, 2008 4:47 pm ET

I just can't trust this man he has lied more than once. Campaign money from Rezko he got more than he originally said, Canadian meeting that happened when he said it didn't, and now this with his minister in which he said he never heard him speak any of this in person. What else is going to come out? I think if he would have come out and been honest the american people would believe him but he is just sorry now that he got caught and he is very hard to believe. If he makes it into the white house he will probably be impeached because something will come out while he is president.

Stephanie   March 19th, 2008 4:47 pm ET

I think a great majority of America has proven they are not racist in backing Obama. It is Obama that appears to be the one who is racist.

Ed   March 19th, 2008 4:47 pm ET

The conventional uproar over the statement by Wright, is more than anything else, gist for the networks fodder. Obama, will be a 'n'word, weather he wins the Presidency or not. The feelings of race division run too deep in this country of the unsaved and the 'saved'. Listen to the chatter of the Consevative, jealouse, misguided people who dislike him just because the man is black. The more the issue is drawn out as 'shocking statements ', by the press, the more those who weren't going to vote for him anyway are solidified.

Nikole   March 19th, 2008 4:47 pm ET

JOE– For the umpteenth time, he said he has heard him make controversial comments before, said he was like an old uncle that makes comments you disagree with, but do not disown them.
But when asked if he was there for the remarks being played on TV, he was NOT, he had heard about some of them, but some he was hearing for the first time.
GET IT RIGHT!

EA   March 19th, 2008 4:47 pm ET

I am a black woman and mother, and I think that if the senator did not approved of what the good pastor was preaching, as an adult its okay for him to do so, but when he subject his impressionable children in that enviroment, I think that is child abuse, what is he teaching his children, to hate America, to hate white people. It is shameful what he and his wife has done to the kids, He siad he did not agree with the pastor those days are gone, then why did he stay there, he has lost my respect.

Laura P   March 19th, 2008 4:47 pm ET

Mr. Obama,

Stop being such a cry-baby! Geessh!

NAMANDE - MA   March 19th, 2008 4:47 pm ET

The damage is done. If Barack gets the nomination, which he should, we are going to see more and more of the clips of Rev Jeremiah after November – that you can take to the bank. Very sad!!

Mary   March 19th, 2008 4:47 pm ET

well if this has shaken him up, what will happen when the republicans really focus on him (if he's the nominee). where's the sound judgment he proclaims?

simple thought ?   March 19th, 2008 4:47 pm ET

obama is like a little school boy. he lies and points fingers.
he would gladly want these two states to vote if he wins the nomination. but says they dont count until the nomination is his.
he's the one who's unleashed his lawyers to silence the hope of a compromise.
he has know chance of beating the republican. none,nada, zip.

missouri

Ruben   March 19th, 2008 4:47 pm ET

joe:

Obama denied being present when Wright made that infamous sermon that has been circulating the web. That is different from saying he has heard Wright say things he did not agree with.

COULD YOU PEOPLE PLEASE STOP DISTORTING THIS ISSUE!!!

Jess   March 19th, 2008 4:46 pm ET

Perhaps we should let Hawaii secede from the Union Raf, so that we don't have to even consider Obama for President.

Jim, Burlington   March 19th, 2008 4:46 pm ET

You break the rules you agreed to then you pay the price.

Hillary is shrill and desperate sounding at this point.

Seat them at the convention and split the delegates down the middle AFTER the first round of nomination…

balthus   March 19th, 2008 4:46 pm ET

What a poised, intelligent, articulate, reasoned, and ethical man Obama has proven to be. Such a dramatic change from the ugly divisiveness of the Republicans and the scandal-plagued presidency of Bill Clinton. Now if only Hillary would stop throwing mud in a vain attempt to satisfy her seemingly infinite ambition.

Hopefully the superdelegates will have sense enough to see how overturning the popular delegate vote total in order to anoint HRC would drive away the legions of young people who have been inspired to back Obama, shatter the hopes of millions of African-Americans who have been the party's base for years, and jump-start the campaign of our nemesis McCain.

It's time for a change America. Time to repudiate the slimy campaign tactics of HRC, to reject her distortions and exaggerations, and to support a candidate we can trust to lead us forward, instead of back.

Obama '08 YES, WE CAN!

OPO   March 19th, 2008 4:46 pm ET

Michigan and Florida got us into this mess with their desire to have more influence on the outcome of this primary. Why are Howard Dean, the national DNC and Barack Obama the ones who have to pay of the selfish decision of two states. No two states are about the other states in the union. The blame lies with the legislatures in both states and the governors of both states signed the state laws into being to move the dates of the primaries.

HRC, you knew what the rules were yet you decided to break them and leave your name on the ballot with the other candidates did not. Was it because you knew this day would come and you hedged your bet? I don't know but all this recent "disenfranchisement" talk looks more politically driven than because of any constitutional cause. You are LOSING and you think this will help you get back in the game. IT WON'T. We have already calculated that even if the states count, you still can't catch up. QUIT DIVIDING OUR COUNTRY AND OUR PARTY. You have shown that you will do anyting…..absolutely anything….to win this nomination. Shame on you Hillary!

OBAMA '08

Anonymous   March 19th, 2008 4:46 pm ET

we were alll shaken by the wrights uproar, and we knew all along that the odds against you winning are great, but we had faith in you and your campaign that we can pull it off…it's still possible, but we gotta keep on fighting and put Billary and this drama behind us. You still have my support!

I do believe that you can't hold a man for someone else's sin!

YES WE CAN!!!

dAnnE   March 19th, 2008 4:46 pm ET

Joe…like so many others You didn't LISTEN to the message, you only HEARD what you wanted to hear…You do know there's a difference, right? Look at the transcipts for both the AC interview and the speech.

Obama/Clinton/McCain: Vote on the Issues 08

Bob Austin,TX   March 19th, 2008 4:46 pm ET

This whole not counting the votes thing… sounds awful republican to me. This whole caucus thing… having to vote twice?? Why can't we just get nominees and then a president who is desired by the simple majority of the voters… Or does that sound too much like a democratic process?

Al, Sacramento Ca   March 19th, 2008 4:46 pm ET

He's had a few friends and partners that have hurt his campaing. It's just the nature of the beast.

No politician is perfect and neither is he.

Jane   March 19th, 2008 4:46 pm ET

Barak Obama is a statesman and brilliant thinker. He has an inclusive perspective contrary to the slash and divide tendencies of both the media and many in our country…. The United States has an oppertunity at this time to step into a new vision and identity that unifies and shines a light on our collective shadows…. What choise will we make????

Harrison   March 19th, 2008 4:46 pm ET

Joe – you need to get your facts straight.

Obama was not in the church when the sermon in question (the one that we have all seen) occurred. You saying it over and over will not make it so.
He did say that he has heard Rev. Wright has made similar comments in other settings and that he denounces and disagrees with those comments.

You need to stop reading headlines and actually read the articles.

McCain 08

Anonymous   March 19th, 2008 4:46 pm ET

Are americans really foolish enough to think that this typ[e of propaganda only occurs in this mans church. In the name of God he destroys young minds and creates distrust among all people. Perfect, the pot calling the kettle black. Nothing will ever change until the American people are represented by someone who truly has all peoples ideals represented on a playing field that allows everyone to play. this individual is definetly not OBAMA , he has allowed his own childern to be witness to the very hatred that holds this country.

Jerry M   March 19th, 2008 4:46 pm ET

If Obama doesn't attempt to fairly contest the states of Florida and Michigan and is percieved to be standing in the way of fair elections for his own political benefit, it will fatally damage his candidacy.

Whoever emerges as the eventual Democratic nominee, they cannot afford to leave lingering doubts about the legitimacy of their candidacy.

Whiney Baby Clinton   March 19th, 2008 4:45 pm ET

Move on already.

Maybe Sillary can move to Michigan or Florida and they can all whine together.

I find it hard to believe that you were just made aware that your voted would not count now. Why weren't you throwing your tantrums when the decision was first made?!?

Gee   March 19th, 2008 4:45 pm ET

Stop talking, nobody is listening to a liar like you. Game over.

Jeff   March 19th, 2008 4:45 pm ET

Hillary: "I want to change the rules, and you're a poor sport and don't care about people if you don't help me do so. I'll cry and pout and slam you, Barack!"

My little daughter is better at the game than this, at least less transparent.

me   March 19th, 2008 4:45 pm ET

He is sooo sickening!
And how many times will Obama or his wife be on CNN?
I cannot wait until he is out of the race. Most Democrats I know will never vote for him!
And they better figure out what to do with Michigan and Florida!

Whuzi   March 19th, 2008 4:45 pm ET

Obviously being President isn't as tough of a job as people make it out to be. Just ask Bush. He has taken more vacation days off than any President before. He doesn't even have to admit that there is a recession even when it is clear as day.

Speaking of jobs. A friend of mine gets paid for blogging…as a Clinton supporter, she probably does more work than Bush.

Tom in MA   March 19th, 2008 4:45 pm ET

He should be shaken. Even if he gets the nomination, he will not get the presidency. If he thinks we will forget by November or buy his pretty speeches, he is wrong.

Moombay   March 19th, 2008 4:45 pm ET

I believe Dr. King said it best: "I’ve seen too much hate to want to hate myself; hate is too great a burden to bear. I’ve seen it on the faces of too many sheriffs of the South—I’ve seen hate. In the faces and even the walk of too many Klansmen of the South, I’ve seen hate. Hate distorts the personality. Hate does something to the soul that causes one to lose his objectivity. The man who hates can’t think straight; the man who hates can’t reason right; the man who hates can’t see right; the man who hates can’t walk right. . . . And this is why John said, “God is love,” so that he who hates does not know God, but he who loves at that moment has the key that opens the door to the meaning of ultimate reality." The NYT compared your speech to a Profile in Courage. When you look at Dr. Kings words and the hateful words of Rev. Wright, I think it's more like Political Profiling.

DD   March 19th, 2008 4:45 pm ET

He's a Liar, plain and simple.

It's his camp using so called legal violation to block re-vote at FL & MI. He cannot spin out of that. He denied FL & MI voters just because he knows he won't win. He is the person who want to win at all costs, here, it's at FL & MI voters' costs.

By the way, Wright was his pastor for over 20 years. Of course, he cannot deny that, that means to me, he's agreed with him for these past years. Now he said he disgreed with him so as to lie his way to nomination.

Reality check #1   March 19th, 2008 4:45 pm ET

Boy, CNN is really on the rescue to Obama. And have once again changed the spotlight of negative to Hillary. Is it because Obama has an ad on the side of your website? Tish, tish.

Ca Native   March 19th, 2008 4:45 pm ET

Barack starting to make excuses for not winning??

"and gotten me back into remembering that the odds of me getting elected have always been lower than than some of the other conventional candidates,"

The good news is… your expectations will be fulfilled. Your embracing Rev. Wright is embracing a lead-anvil as your attempting to run to the finish line.

The best description for Obama Presidential Bid: TOAST

Maria - Texas   March 19th, 2008 4:45 pm ET

He is SHOCKED?! Whatever! It just goes to show how inexperienced he is! What is going to do when other countries come at us! What a cry-baby!

Grow Up! It is about time! Welcome to the real world!

kmb   March 19th, 2008 4:45 pm ET

To the folks accusing Barack of lying – what he actually SAID was that he had not heard the specific comments that had been played repeatedly on YouTube and on television. He never once said he had not heard ANY controversial rhetoric. You need to be a little more accurate!

Nosakhere Walcott   March 19th, 2008 4:45 pm ET

Joe,

You are one of many who like to take Obama's comments out of context. Are aware of what he was referring to? He was referring to the service at which he had made those comments. Take your misinterpretations so some other blog.

AJ, IL   March 19th, 2008 4:45 pm ET

Why waste more money on primary do-overs in Michigan and Florida? By summer 2008, Michigan will probably have lost more jobs and Florida will probably be hit by a Hurricane. Let's save the money for real problems in both these states. How much health insurance does $12 million buy in Michigan? How many homes in Florida can be saved from foreclosure with $12 million?

Cathy   March 19th, 2008 4:44 pm ET

To Joe …. Barack Obama did not lie to us. You are taking everything out of context. And his speech revealed true leadership, insight, sensitivity and depth….the traits of a great American president. Hilary does not have the depth or capacity to see the big picture as Barack does.

Christopher Fandl   March 19th, 2008 4:44 pm ET

What did Obama expect running for President? I mean….hello. He is doing a pretty good job of spinning this to me.

Nich Anderson   March 19th, 2008 4:44 pm ET

Someone please edit this ticket item.
"United State's" hurts my brain.

here's another example:
"Obama noted Wright was on the verge retirement."

Some of the others are quotes so could be the person's
stumbling of words rather than edit errors.

No need to post this comment.

David   March 19th, 2008 4:44 pm ET

jOE,

Cait   March 19th, 2008 4:44 pm ET

If you can't take the heat, Obama should do us all a favor and get out of the kitchen.

Like to see him unite the Dems by supporting a re-vote in Michigan and Florida. Actions do speak louder that words and speeches.

David   March 19th, 2008 4:44 pm ET

If Howard Dean fails to Seat the Delegates and make the Votes in Michigan and Florida count, he should RESIGN Immediately!

John   March 19th, 2008 4:44 pm ET

You LIED to us Senator Obama … you repeatedly claimed that your church wasn't that controversial and you claimed that you were not in the pews when controversial statements were uttered … don't expect your well-delivered speech to cover up the fact that you consistently misled us. So much for the "new" politics of hope. I'll be voting for Senator Clinton in the upcoming NC primary. And if you happen to get the party's nomination, this life-long Democrat will never vote for you!

Daniel Jurek   March 19th, 2008 4:44 pm ET

I respect Mr. Obama's judgement issue regarding Senator Clinton's inability to properly diagnose the ramifications of entering into war with Iraq. However, during that time Senator Obama positioned himself neutral on matters of great importance and signiiicances in our country's battle against terrorism. As of late, the tides have turned against Senator Obama in regards to judgement or the lack thereof. Mr. Obama did not pay much attention over the last twenty or more years to his paster Mr. Wright and his internal beliefs as it relates to America and whites in general. Judgement against Clinton was a matter of a period of several years, Senator Obama's lack of judgement in good character spained over several decades. You decide which of the two canidates lacks good judgement.

Veterans for Obama   March 19th, 2008 4:44 pm ET

This man is exactly what this nation needs now. I have much respect for Senator Clinton, but she will not be able to mobilize and unite this Nation and bring back in favor with the global community the way Obama can. Leaders like this come only once a generation…let's not be afraid to change the course of this nation. The issues are real and grave.

Jack B   March 19th, 2008 4:44 pm ET

Like Joe said you lied about Rev. Wright, you lied about the NAFTA note that surfaced, you should review your comments about Don Imus and compare his comments and Rev Wrights and then tell the people who's remarks were more offensive.

sjmarie   March 19th, 2008 4:44 pm ET

Florida and Michigan voters knew in advance that their votes wouldn't count for delegates. Some people did not bother to vote. Hillary did not make an issue of their votes being counted until she was behind in delegates. Obama is not to blame for the voters being disenfranchised. It is the leaders of the Democratic party who agreed to break the rule and hold the election earlier than agreed.

John Walters   March 19th, 2008 4:43 pm ET

:

If we are suppose to vote for Obama based upon his "Judgement" – then how does he explain his judgement when he picked two people as key to his campaign leaders – and now is having to distance himself from both – one resigns and the other he has to explain.

So no experience – no judgement – NO Presidency.

Dan G.   March 19th, 2008 4:43 pm ET

Once again Mr. Obama blames others for his failure to use good judgement. It seems the Obama campaign loves to play the race card rather than face the facts of who is really at fault.

Ray W   March 19th, 2008 4:43 pm ET

Don't worry about an up hill battle, save you're cash. Sorry, it ain't about race, it about abilty, it maybe a close horse race but you GOT no CHANCE!!!!!!!

Ryan   March 19th, 2008 4:43 pm ET

According to the Slate Delegate Counter, HRC would need 60-40 wins in ALL REMAINING STATES as well as placing 60-40 in Michigan and FLA to even pull slightly ahead.

She is mathematically out of the race. Let it go. HRC needs to drop out of the race and buckle down to defeat McCain.

Lindi   March 19th, 2008 4:43 pm ET

Joe, It pays to have good comprehension skills before you open your mouth to display your ignorance,Barack said he has heard the pastor say controversial statements and not the explosive video comments,even his worst critics Fox news released a statement confirming that records obtained from florida shows he had a speaking engagement in that state on that day and was not in Illinois.
So check your facts and go look up the info yourself do not depend on what you hear someone else repeat.To engage in politics you need to be savvy and not gullible!!

Laura   March 19th, 2008 4:43 pm ET

I think it is highly suspicious that after his pastor's comments, that he claims he would have spoke out against, he made him a religious advisor on his campaign. When will this double talk end? First Tony Rezko now Rev. Wright. It is the same story over and over with Obama. Is this the change that he speaks of? If so I don't think it is change anyone can believe in.

Eugene Ramcharan   March 19th, 2008 4:43 pm ET

Seating the Michigan and Florida delegates under the broken rules is tantamount to accepting George Bush's stealing of the Presidency form Al Gore as normal and accepted behaviour. And to think that Americans are now castigating Barack Obama for not walking out of Rev. Wright's church when he heard objectionable statements. Talk about speaking with both sides of your mouth. Why don't all Americans who disagree with George Bush's wars in Iraq and Afghanistan just get up and leave – go to Mexico, maybe.

Doom.   March 19th, 2008 4:43 pm ET

So far we've got some stellar comments here. keep up the good work. Someday soon, you'll all be reasoning and communicating like real people!

Barackthevote   March 19th, 2008 4:43 pm ET

Hillary's cry out to Obama to accept her challenge is just another mere political game that she seems to play quite well when her back is against the wall. Her tactics are simply to turn Barack's words against him, which is playing politics as usual. Obama clearly stated that he wants both states delegates to be seated, however, he will only agree to the terms of the DNC, not to the demands of Billary Clinton. She is wrong and is doing all that she can to defame a man of such great caliber and who represents the Democratic Party the best. I hope she realizes that her attacks are not hurting Obama, rather hurting herself in the primary's but also hurting the Democratic Party come time for the general election in November. Billary needs to chill out and just surrender this race, because frankly, she just cannot win.

sozzi   March 19th, 2008 4:43 pm ET

joe; Obama did not lie. If you heard or read very carefully, he did say that he heard some horrible rhetoric, BUT NOT the ones that have been played time and time over again by the Media.

ObamaSPPRTER   March 19th, 2008 4:43 pm ET

Great Speech, Senator!
Keep up the good work. You are such an inspiration to me and my generation.

May God be with you.

Tavi   March 19th, 2008 4:43 pm ET

I don't understand how he can still keep going – I'm exhausted for him. Yet he still says things that I could see myself saying in a similar situation, and for the first time in MY LIFE I feel like a guy that I would vote for as the president is a relatively decent person. Which of course means that the nastiest of the nasties here in America won't let him win because he challenges some of the trite ideals of middle america, the media, and big business. Sigh. Some democracy.

kyle   March 19th, 2008 4:43 pm ET

Joe he was NOT at THAT sermon. He said he has heard him say contraversal things, but that doesn't include the sermon that has been playing over and over. That is all. He did not lie.

Tom Carroll   March 19th, 2008 4:43 pm ET

Don’t let your guests respond to questions about Rev Wright’s sermons with their standard “Obama wants to move on to issues important to voters”.

The words used by Rev Wright are exactly related to issues important to voters …. the values that make up the foundation of his sermons will influence Obama’s actions related to society and world affairs. Obama lied about knowing of Wright’s extreme comments …. now he admits he did know about them. Talk about lack of judgment! Yep, I’m ready for “change” but not for another lying politician!

Kathy   March 19th, 2008 4:43 pm ET

Hillary is right to seat or let the votes be counted in Michigan and Florida not for herself, but for the democratic party as a whole and for all of the democrats that voted in our system that want their votes to count. It is necessary for the general to have those states vote Democratic and you are only alienating them. Do not blame Hillary, but yourself now.
If this controversy has shaken you up that is your fault for 20 years of going to that church. You also tried to cover it up, lie about it and had the minister on your committe so you need to stop whining and take responsibility for your own actions.

Rick   March 19th, 2008 4:43 pm ET

Hilary is the lair. It tells of her inconsistency. Why can't she agree to the rules of the game? Ooooh we all know why…she can help but win the nomination regardless of what it takes. It was agreed among all parties that the states will not count. Why can she just get that into her thick skull? Would it have been different if Obama was down by 100 delegates? Give me a break.

jeff   March 19th, 2008 4:42 pm ET

joe, clearly you have not been following this situation. He was not present (in attendance atthe service) when the pastor made those disgusting remarks. However, he has always admitted to knowing about those remarks at the onset of his campaign.

therealist   March 19th, 2008 4:42 pm ET

How can I vote for anyone that intentionally lies to me??

kerry   March 19th, 2008 4:42 pm ET

For those of you who believe that Obama is lying to us with respect to comments he made regarding his former pastor, I beg you to ask your government for additional educational spending so that your own reading comprehension levels increase. If you go to the trouble of actually reading his statements, you will not find inconsistencies. Frankly, I am incredibly disappointed with all of the "spin" and politics as usual happening the past weeks in the media. We have a country facing much greater troubles right now. Let's focus on the issues.

kerry

Burnie, atlanta georgia   March 19th, 2008 4:42 pm ET

no matter who gets into the White House…they will only be a figure-head. The real people that run this country are the big money corporates. The government cant do anything except the financial conglomerate allows.

PeterO   March 19th, 2008 4:42 pm ET

Florida and Michigan screwed up – stop blaming Obama. If they want new primaries, then the States and DNC need to figure out the fair way to do it. It's likely too late.

Hillary is just trying to blame it on him, just as she tries to blame everything on someone else – she never takes responsibility for anything unless it's good for her ego.

She is really destroying the democratic party.

Joe S.   March 19th, 2008 4:42 pm ET

I'm at a loss to understand why the Florida and Michigan primaries are an issue at all. It was understood from the very beginning that if they moved their primaries up so early that their delegates wouldn't be seated.

Period.

They did it anyway and now they're whining. It's called 'making your bed and having to lie in it' where I come from.

So why are we even talking about this?

New Zealand Observations   March 19th, 2008 4:42 pm ET

screw michigan and florida, they knew the rules, hillary is trying to seat delegates that were not freely or fairly voted on. Hillary is attempting to steal the nomination in the hopes of putting john mcain in the white house. Backroom deal by Billary Pantsuit Clinton?

jlunz   March 19th, 2008 4:42 pm ET

I switched to Hillary the other day and I am now convinced I did the right thing , I sent her a contribution and will support her to the end. He still has more skeletons in his closet and he knows it.

T. D. Harris   March 19th, 2008 4:42 pm ET

Barack Obama has expressed himself very well on the issue with his pastor. He continues to impress me as a gentleman. How refreshing to have a well mannered candidate who does not go on the attack. Nor is he on the fence. He is standing up for his beliefs and can explain them. CHANGE works for me.

No need to play the "black" card. We know what he is. Like the Zebra going into heaven that wanted to know if he was black on white or white on black and was told. "You is what you is". He is an American. I like everything I hear, read and see about the man including his youth and lack of experience.

DEM, Texas   March 19th, 2008 4:42 pm ET

One America, The is no royal family HRC, The American people own that White House.

HRC will not have the change to clean it out again.

Clinton Royal Crime Family

KLS79   March 19th, 2008 4:41 pm ET

More air time for Obama??

steve batlin   March 19th, 2008 4:41 pm ET

He and his family should have withdrawn from the church years ago.
The Racist Reverend did not start preaching this stuff at Christmas.
911 happened in 2001. Obviously his comments were made before. If you object or denounce the comments you distance yourself
and family from the church. The Manchurian Canidate has yet to
withdraw from the church.

susannah jones   March 19th, 2008 4:41 pm ET

Why does Barack Obama think he is unconventional and 'non textbook'? he and his campaign have all the prerequisites and have exhibited all the behaviors and moves of any 'conventional' politician and then some…..I think that if he gets the nomination this wounded country will become a failed state because he and the hounds at his side are ravenous

Susannah Jones

Jim King   March 19th, 2008 4:41 pm ET

Unless Obama has true ideas for all Americans he should drop out of the race. He could cause riots in the US because Blacks expect Obama to be "given" the nomination "just because" of color. Hillary will not do this and I don't blame her at all.

srs   March 19th, 2008 4:41 pm ET

Friday – Barack admits that in the past the Rev made statements that he did not agree with, but he was not in the pew when those particular controversial comments were made.

Amy in Iowa   March 19th, 2008 4:41 pm ET

It has to be difficult to deal with so many ignorant people. Obama I am not sure it is worth it to go through this divisive campaign. I commend you. You are my hero.

Obama '08

OBAMA 2008   March 19th, 2008 4:41 pm ET

"First they ignore you,
then they ridicule you,
then they fight you,
then you win."

- Mahatma Gandhi

.:: OBAMA 2008 ::.

RC   March 19th, 2008 4:41 pm ET

It can't believe Clinton and her supporters somehow think that:

a) The votes in Michigan and Florida should count. That is absolutely laughable and no explanation as to why is needed if you have an IQ above 12.

b) That Obama is standing in the way of getting something done. His comments/stance is very clear. Again an IQ above 12 with some basic literacy understanding is required.

No wonder the U.S. is in the state it is in.

ROBIN   March 19th, 2008 4:41 pm ET

He did not say anything about his pastors rantings, because after 20 yrs of remaining in that church with those preachings, he feels the same way. He is only telling people what he THINKS they want to hear in the hopes of getting elected.
. He stated he had never heard his pastor say anything less than respectful to a white person when he was around them, but he did not say that he did not hear that pastor say anything disparaging when they were out of ear shot.

LaLa   March 19th, 2008 4:41 pm ET

I agree whole heartedly with Obama. He represents himself & not his pastor. He speaks for himslef & not his pastor. I was very glad that Obama did not denouce Pastor Wright, because he should not have to do so. Obama is a good man, who has the best at heart for America. Unfortunately, with so many racist people in this America Obama doesn't have a chance. That is Americas lost!

Luka   March 19th, 2008 4:41 pm ET

Obama probably won't win the presidency because we Americans are too stupid to appreciate intelligent and thought provoking discourse. Hopefully, in the years to come as we are deep in debt to China and waist high in wars in Iraq, Afghanistan and most likely Iran we'll all be able to remember that we had a choice and a different path we could have followed and we ignorantly went with business as usual based on a few ridiculous comments from a retired preacher.

Anee   March 19th, 2008 4:41 pm ET

It should shake him up, he lied and now that he we see the true Obama, a panderer who will say whatever it takes to win the WH.
He should concede and let the Dems prepare for the battle against McCain.

HamptonU1992   March 19th, 2008 4:41 pm ET

Are you serious? Hillary is a joke. She agreed to everything that Senator Obama did. Faced with a serious reality that she's going to loose, and now she wants to challenge?

You are bringing down the party Hillary. It's not about you. It's about the American people!

Cliff OR   March 19th, 2008 4:41 pm ET

Problem is, Obama did send surrogates into Michigan to campaign for him. They urged voters to vote "uncommitted". His teams worked feverishly on the ground for at least two weeks before the primary, telling voters that an "uncommitted" vote could result in a vote for Obama if the candidates were later seated at the convention. So, yes, he and his team always held open the possibility that the delegates could be seated. Had he won there by a good-sized majority as Clinton did, he and his team would be screaming their heads off to have the Michigan voters voices heard and their delegates seated. It's his fault that his name was taken off the ballot anyway. No one campaigned there (excrept for his surrogates going after the "Uncommitted" vote). So just seat the delegates and live with it.
As for Florida, that was an even playing field. All the candidates were allowed to fund raise there, and they all did. All names were on the ballot. No one campaigned there (except Obama who ran an ad against the agreement he had with his fellow candidates). So, again, just seat the delegates and get on with the election.

deb in az   March 19th, 2008 4:40 pm ET

how could sen obama question anyones judgement when his own judgement is in question………..i find it very offensive that he would compare steriotype that his grandmother said to that racist, bigot minister……..i thought it was a pretty good speach untill he played the race card……….let these votes count or let them revote. these are people that you will represent if you get the presidency sen obama……..

Katy   March 19th, 2008 4:40 pm ET

HIllary agreed DNC rules re: Michigan & Florida violation. Now she wants to change the rules in the middle of the campaign because she wants more votes. Hillary wants to apply jungle rules. What kind of president will she be and what the world will view American when a American president play jungles rules / laws? Hillary does not love America & American, she loves herself only.

No revote for Michigan and Florida and don't blame Obama for following the DNC rules. Hillary has the right to ask for revote, Obama has the right for abide the rules and asking for the fair game.

Politico   March 19th, 2008 4:40 pm ET

Raf… that is simply hillarious!!! I love the comment.

It is so funny how Obama is playing the victim!! Am I the only one that is catching that??
"This controversy has shaken me up, and showen me how low my chances of getting elected are!!?"
Give me a break, you and your pastor brought this on yourselves, do not try turning into the victim.

Mel   March 19th, 2008 4:40 pm ET

Hey, Joe – chill out.

Friday he said he was not in Church when the Wright gave the sermon that has been circulating on TV. That is correct – not a lie.

Yesterday, he said that, however, he *had* heard Wright make other objectionable statements in Church – also true.

It is ok to disagree with a politician. But, twisting the facts is not ok. Leave that to Dick Cheney.

kay   March 19th, 2008 4:40 pm ET

TO JOE;_
HE said he was not there the day of the 25 dec 07 when the sermon was preached. but as been a part of the church and attended the church time to time..
Get ur fact straight before you come here fooling people

jalo   March 19th, 2008 4:40 pm ET

ref. being american is obeying the law not commanding it. so swallow the bitter pill and move on.

Matthew   March 19th, 2008 4:39 pm ET

Let me get this straight. 65 percent of people polled want to get out of Iraq but they won't vote for Obama because of insane comments by somebody else. But they will vote for a tired old man named McCain who has no policy differences with Bush. No wonder were so loved by the rest of the world.

CJ   March 19th, 2008 4:39 pm ET

I agree with him on the odds, however, I don't think it's a fair comparison with Hillary. I don't know if Senator Obama has noticed, but Hillary Clinton is a woman. It hasn't exactly been easy for women to get elected to the presidency, either.

JJ   March 19th, 2008 4:39 pm ET

Joe you say Obama lied to us… Can you give me the exact quotes in which you have come to this ignorant conclusion. Obama has said that he was not in the sermons that you have seen constantly on the news and Youtube. Those where the sermons in question. He did say in the interview before his speech that he did know Mr Wright for making controversial statements… So how about you get your facts strait and stop lying yourself please.

Angela   March 19th, 2008 4:39 pm ET

Shook up? Wait for the general election….

perhaps a bit more experience under his belt would have helped him handle these kind of challenges.

Maybe this wake up call will help him to realize he should spend 8 years being vice president.

Liz   March 19th, 2008 4:39 pm ET

PS– I should add, I once was an Obama supporter. I made calls and donated every dime I could. I truly regret that decision. I'm a very proud American and I do not tolerate racism whatsoever. Not for any reason. Hate is hate.
Hillary Clinton has my support now.

Armando   March 19th, 2008 4:39 pm ET

Obama for President!

Obama Supporter   March 19th, 2008 4:38 pm ET

He did not lie. He said that he was not in church when Rev. Wright made those particular comments. However, Barack said he has been in church when Rev. Wright made other comments……just as most of you have heard your minister's and priest say harsh words in church.

Please get the facts right!

scott   March 19th, 2008 4:38 pm ET

FL and MI's gov't broke the rules, they need to own up to it and deal with it. If the people of those two states are disenfranchised, then FL and MI legislatures are to blame.

I don't care what Obama's preacher said. Obama didn't say it. Just like Bush and every other politician supported by Falwell, et. al. didn't say the hateful things espoused by them.

zina   March 19th, 2008 4:38 pm ET

Thank you for this article, CNN. It shows how human and how much depth Barack has. I would be worried if he said that the controversy did not bother him. America, this is a good man.

Obama '08

FELIX   March 19th, 2008 4:37 pm ET

HELLO!!!! Hillary's name was the only name on the ballot in MI.
Back in October she said, Michigan and Florida won't count … my how her story changes when she's in trouble.

DRS   March 19th, 2008 4:37 pm ET

Joe,
He said that he wasn't there when Wright said that specific thing.

Yesterday he said he had heard Wright say controversial things.

That's not a lie.

Stop listening to pundits and make up your own mind.

JP   March 19th, 2008 4:37 pm ET

Senator Obama is being too nice to Clinton.

The Clintons are proven liars and cheaters. They will do whatever it takes to get the 16 years in the White House they feel they have a divine right to.

TheLeftNut   March 19th, 2008 4:37 pm ET

joe,

They all lie.

Kristina   March 19th, 2008 4:37 pm ET

Obama For President!

Not again   March 19th, 2008 4:37 pm ET

I am really sick of seeing him everywhere on CNN… Is there anything else going on in the world??????

mb   March 19th, 2008 4:37 pm ET

Obama needs to do the right thing and he won't be shaken up. I've been in the psychiatric field for a long time and this demonstrates how bad he is for the presidency. Maybe he can call up Hillary and ask her what he should do.

Former Obama Supporter   March 19th, 2008 4:36 pm ET

Obama supports someone who preaches hate and is a racist. I'm sure other former supporters of his are jumping ship as well. How could he have gone to a church for 20 years that had a preacher who was anti-american, hateful and a racist. He didn't stand up against this until he was forced into a corner.

Jim in FL   March 19th, 2008 4:36 pm ET

Obama, this explanaton sounds both much more chronologically plausible and logical. Too bad it contradicts some of your words from last week.

Willy   March 19th, 2008 4:36 pm ET

If you can't stand the heat then get out of the kitchen Senator.

Hillary 08   March 19th, 2008 4:36 pm ET

Obama has proven he is Nothing but a Lier!!. Time for you to step down, as Hillary is the winner!.

Adam Franklin   March 19th, 2008 4:36 pm ET

Joe,

Obama did not lie. He has been in his service, but he did not say that he heard the particular sermons by Wright.

Talimee   March 19th, 2008 4:35 pm ET

This whole Florida and Michigan debate frustrates me. Of course they should be allowed to count. Of course because they are American. Of course because America wants to portray the image of a democracy. Now, I still dont see why the DNC would punish states for moving their elections. Elections are a matter of the state, they should choose when they want to hold elections (obviously before the nomination if they want to count), it is in the Constitution.

This whole debate about rules bothers me. Since when rules say that voters should be disenfrachised when they didnt do anything wrong? Didnt slavery strip people of their rights to be free by their government? How could you be "OK" with people being disenfrachised?

I say let them vote, or at least count their votes in the popular vote. Then, let the superdelegates go with the popular vote. Let's not relive what happened in the 2000 election… we were disgusted then, we are disgusted now.

Linda   March 19th, 2008 4:35 pm ET

I taught my children that if they hang out wiht drug addicts that they could be using drugs and if they hung out with thieves they could be stealing. How does these teaching apply to someone who sat in a pew for years listening to a hate preaching preacher?

lym   March 19th, 2008 4:35 pm ET

Joe get over it!

Juliet George   March 19th, 2008 4:34 pm ET

Joe, did you actually read Obama's speech or did you listen to it at all? it seems you are hateful and an illiterate. You need to grow up and not be blinded by hate. Obama said he was in the church when the Pastor made some controversial statements and not the ones that were being aired non-stop on some right-wing television stations

Adam   March 19th, 2008 4:34 pm ET

Obama takes lemons and makes lemonade! We might have to just accept the fact that he is a nice, honest person. Dang! And I so wanted to hate him.

Rick in Boynton Beach   March 19th, 2008 4:33 pm ET

If this is the best his opposition has on him, it's time to say welcome President Obama.

Basquale   March 19th, 2008 4:33 pm ET

For how long will the media inclisive CNN cover on the Wright Controversy? Tousands of times every day every hour and it seems it will never stop. Shows how sick the society is. Where are the intelligent people in America who go on and discuss the real problems on this planet?

And CNN I wish you would put a statement on some bloggers here who are getting insane. Its disgusting at times.

DD, New York   March 19th, 2008 4:33 pm ET

I don't believe a word Mr. Obama has to say.

MAB   March 19th, 2008 4:32 pm ET

Obama has shown us that not only can he take a punch, he can face it calmly, consider it intelligently and diffuse it gracefully. These are excellent qualities for a leader.

Uncle Sam   March 19th, 2008 4:32 pm ET

If Barack Obama lacks the moral courage to confront wrongdoing in his own church, how can we expect him to act differently as president?

Tom in Miami   March 19th, 2008 4:32 pm ET

Aww, poor Obama. You say nothing and have no plans but to appease your corporate finanaciers (check his voting record on energy policy), push your religious agenda (check his voting record on foriegn policy and the UN), and work to prey on American ignorance so you can usurp the presidency.

George W. Bush did the same thing in 2000, the same people who voted for him are going to vote Obama in.

Edwards '08 should have been a reality.

RC   March 19th, 2008 4:32 pm ET

What is this? Are we playing "different answer different day?"
God help us if Obama gets into the White House.

docrock,tx   March 19th, 2008 4:32 pm ET

Lies….Lies…..Lies….and more lies from the mouth of one of the biggest racists to hit the stage in a long,long time.Anyone that votes for this hate-monger will desreve what they get.

Ric   March 19th, 2008 4:32 pm ET

Obama '08 = racist church, anti-American.

Shame on you!!

Vince Los Angeles, CA   March 19th, 2008 4:32 pm ET

Joe…you seem to have trouble with comprehension….Obama said he was not in church when the Wright statements playing in the press were said…..(This was actually verfied as Obama was seen in Miami when these statements were made and one of the statements was made before he joined the church)…..Obama clearly stated that he has been in church when SOME controversial statements were made (not the same statements being played by the press)..

Most people understood this fact….Republicans, Independants and Democrats alike….perhaps you should focus on your comprehension skills before posting drivel on public forums.

Chris   March 19th, 2008 4:32 pm ET

"remembering that the odds of me getting elected"

Even Obama thinks he's unelectable. This is going to go down the tubes fast for him if he's a nominee.

George from Minneapolis   March 19th, 2008 4:32 pm ET

Obama is so presidental. All of you coming on here to bash Obama, you are not fooling anyone. You were not going to vote for him anyway, even before the recent controversy.

I will vote for him as will millions of other americans.

He WILL win the nomination and the general election no matter what Hillary or the republicans do.

Obama said at the beginning of his campaign "we wont get swiftboated." and he wont.

Trina   March 19th, 2008 4:31 pm ET

I believe that this Rev. Wright thing was good for the Obama campaign. Too often arrogance becomes the plight of politicians which becomes manifest in their poor judgement and blindless decision making. Now that he has been provided a good ole reality check, his hubris has been subdued and he can get back to the business at hand…facilitating change. Best wishes to him on his journey to the White House.

Nancy   March 19th, 2008 4:31 pm ET

Help me out here. I've been following this story in between caring for a houseful of family members down with the flu. Here's my question: When did Rev. Wright become Obama's "former" pastor? My understanding from early reporting is that Obama is a member in good standing of the church that Rev. Wright is the head of. But this report (and others) are now referring to him as the "former pastor." Did he resign? Or is this Obama rhetoric?

Joe   March 19th, 2008 4:31 pm ET

I don't think Hillary is a conventional candidate. Again, playing the race card indirectly is what Obama does best. Enough! Obama and his campaign has played this card from the getgo by accusing others of racism. Obama you have dug your own hole by sitting in those pews during those hateful sermons.

Vig   March 19th, 2008 4:30 pm ET

Yeah, it's shaken him up alright – he's had nothing but glory worship up to this point – I don't think he even had to think too much – he never broke a sweat – good to see him sweating a little. Is this what he will do if he ever gets elected – a national crisis – and then say he was shaken up. The guy's game is talk.

PAVoter   March 19th, 2008 4:30 pm ET

"the odds of me getting elected have always been lower than than some of the other conventional candidates,"

Barack…you've just hit the nail on the head and realized the electability problem you have. You are untested. Please don't force the Dems to be politically correct and go forward with your nomination. Hillary can get the White House back. Please don't be selfish!

d   March 19th, 2008 4:30 pm ET

I'd like to know who much $$$ Obama gave to his church over the past 20 years…..

bigben   March 19th, 2008 4:30 pm ET

Obama you want some cheese with your wine?

Exodus   March 19th, 2008 4:30 pm ET

The Great Exodus is brewing as we speak. How can I take my vote back? Please someone tell me.

Dan , TX   March 19th, 2008 4:30 pm ET

Fortunately, I don't need Blitzer or any other of the pundits on TV to tell me what to think. I have the ability and intelligence to go to Clinton, Obama, and McCain campaign sites and look for all the information that is needed to make a decision without having to look through the lenses of the CNN, MSNBC, FOX etc. idiots.

It amazes me that these "analysts" can't be bothered to actually read what the candidates positions are and relay that information to us. It amazes me that these "journalists" rely on out of context soundbites to form their own opinions rather than placing them in a real context. I'm disgusted with American journalism.

DeniseGA   March 19th, 2008 4:30 pm ET

ABC is reporting, Hillary Clintons campaign did urge the Media to press Obama on Wright!

Hillary is failing to mention, MI and FL legislature is also against the proposed plans for revotes…..Just as Bill Nelson, was speaking without the legislature behind him….

They push as if they are close to a vote to build hype, and then say it is Obama shooting it down!!!!

David   March 19th, 2008 4:30 pm ET

Hillary is just trying to manipulate the game, but I remind her that the BOSS is a HARVARD graduate.

Hillary will never win

Obama 08!!!

gail   March 19th, 2008 4:30 pm ET

that barak could ever describe his run against clinton as an uphill battle is laughable. barak has been riding the rampant misogyny of his beloved america to a healthy lead, and is only now encountering real scrutiny (in the wake of an SNL skit, of all things). spare us your 'poor me' ramblings barak; they ring WAY false.

Big O   March 19th, 2008 4:30 pm ET

This guy impresses me more and more each day…
He would be great for America !!!

NickNasc   March 19th, 2008 4:29 pm ET

"But the argument to seat Florida and Michigan’s delegates based on results from January seems to lose some weight when you consider this: a new study by a Wharton professor suggests that about two million more people would have voted in Michigan and Florida if they thought their votes would have counted."

JUST WANTED PEOPLE SO SEE THIS AGAIN!!!!

I have been screaming this at the top of my lungs for WEEKS but not even CNN would report this MAJOR Fact! It took some Professor to get a buried 2 line story on this SIMPLE LOGIC!!!!

Elizabeth   March 19th, 2008 4:29 pm ET

God help us if that old cout gets into the White House! I would NOT TRUST him with the nuclear switch and many other things. For one thing, he is a WAR HAWK. I do not want my grandchildren to live under a president like that. I am VERY CONCERNED – how did we reach SO LOW?

oh please   March 19th, 2008 4:28 pm ET

Could someone just ask him directly why he lied? Let's stop discussing the sermon and just ask him why he said he'd never heard those type comments from Wright? Plain & simple. Why'd you lie? Then we move on.

Thanks!

Jason   March 19th, 2008 4:27 pm ET

At least he's honest about his chances. Who knows, he could still win this thing if voters set aside their knee-jerk reactive impulses and actually listen to what he has to say and what his plans are.

Len   March 19th, 2008 4:27 pm ET

Can anyone honestly tell me that he has sat thru how many years of these hateful sermons and has not been affected?

If he disagreed with his positions why does he still go to church there?

He allows his daughters to sit thru the so called sermons?

He may be a part of you, but he and you have no place in running the Nation.

Joann   March 19th, 2008 4:27 pm ET

I realize that Hillary's 'husband' has experience as a former president and I'm certain that this is where the confusion along with a lot of the support that she's getting is prompted. I supported her initially, until she started showing that it me that this was a sly way of getting 'Bill' back into office. Normally, we are ALL afraid of 'change' no matter how badly we may say that we want it.

d   March 19th, 2008 4:26 pm ET

Obama is so arrogant…and a liar to the people of the United States. He is not a leader!

Anonymous   March 19th, 2008 4:26 pm ET

YO WHATUP ANDY MOONEY MY MAIN MAN YOU TELL IT LIKE IT IS

Belle   March 19th, 2008 4:26 pm ET

Nice that it shook you up…it should!

Chris, Orlando   March 19th, 2008 4:26 pm ET

RACE.

CARD.

You played it, Obama. Now fold your hand and leave the contest.

raf   March 19th, 2008 4:25 pm ET

Can we just let Michigan and Florida secede from the Union? Everyone else cool with that?

joe   March 19th, 2008 4:23 pm ET

OBAMA YOU LIED TO US

FRIDAY YOU SAID YOU HAD NOT HEARD HIS HORRIBLE

RHETORIC

THAN YESTERDAY YOU STATED YOU HAD BEEN IN HIS SERVICE

ENOUGH SAID…YOU….LIED…TO US

Ted in Chicago   March 19th, 2008 4:22 pm ET

ok Barack its the big leagues – no time for injuries

Here comes HRC

Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton bluntly challenged Barack Obama to agree to new primaries in Michigan and Florida on Wednesday and said it was "wrong, and frankly un-American" not to have the two delegations seated at the Democratic National Convention

WELL ARE YOU UP TO IT OR NOT?

LET US ALL WATCH YOUR RESPONSE – CAN YOU GO THE DISTANCE? CAN YOU DELIVER THE KNOCK OUT BLOW

Being President is an insanely tough job – in so many ways – the test is now -

May the best PERSON win

Ding

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