Comments on: Jesse Jackson apologizes for comments critical of Obama

By: SOME GUY

SOME GUY — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 20:48:42 +0000

How is this in any way different than either issue involving Don Imus?

Where is the righteous indignation and demands for his immediate firing?

Oh, wait a minute, he doesn't technically have a job to lose. How exactly does one go about unseating a self appointed "guardian of the black community"?

By: Henry

Henry — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 20:48:39 +0000

How can you shift blame onto FOX News for this??? I can't say I'm a FOX fan...far from it, but the comments by Mr. Jackson only reveal a problem within the black community itself-denial. Many leading black political leaders cringe when they hear the TRUTH about the state of the black community. Barack is one of the few brave black men that will stand up and say there is not always a white man to blame for some problems. Black men – like himself!- can achieve many things and serve as role models for these young black boys.

By: Marie

Marie — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 20:48:37 +0000

Fox should have aired all of Jackson's comments. There are many more issues at hand than absent fathers and Jackson probably pointed out those issues. And by the way, ALL families suffer from divorce or single parenthood by choice or accident - not just Black families. Obama is pandering to Blacks and non-Blacks who believe "if Blacks would just do [fill in the blank] then they wouldn't have all those problems. Blacks need to pull themselves up by their bootstraps." I'm a Black woman (yes, I'm a single parent & I've raised 3 wonderful sons - 2 with college degrees, one who is presently in college - thank you very much!). I'm tired of Obama and others pandering to folks who focus on the problems and then generalize to get brownie points.

By: tr

tr — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 20:48:33 +0000

This won't hurt Obama, actually it could help him......the AA's are NOT going to vote for McSame anyways and for the whites who are so worried Obama is like Jesse or Rev Sharpton, here Jessie is complaining aout it. It will help Obama overall

By: Delegate from California

Delegate from California — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 20:48:32 +0000

Rev. Jackson should not have to apologize it all...

By: CaliforniaKid

CaliforniaKid — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 20:48:31 +0000

Jesse Jackson is the single greatest hypocrite in history. I will never understand why anyone listens to a word the man says. Fortunately very, very few care what he thinks or says anymore. The world is better for it.

By: Ms. Sims

Ms. Sims — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 20:48:30 +0000

The comments Obama said were true! And coming from a black person who was raised in a single parent home i agree. But what people leave out is the fact that he was also talking to all fathers of different races not just black. But he focused in on the AA b/c there is a substantially higher number of single parent home.

As always some critics will never be satisified. These are the same people who streotype all black people and say they need to get off welfare and take care of their kids and content that Obama is a marxist going to turn America into a welfare state, but when Obama says it's not PC.

Jesse and Al can both go away for all I care they don't speak for all black people and I wish the MSM would stop paying them attention

By: John

John — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 20:48:29 +0000

Did I miss something? I have already heard the Rev. Jackson apologize and explain his negative remarks about Obama, but you have not reported even an edited version of his "hot mike" comments. Where is the heart of the story? Are you going to to report the whole story??? Seems we should be clued in...Thanks

By: karela

karela — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 20:48:25 +0000

I thought we all agreed that spying on Americans was bad. In a private conversation, an American who widely supports a certain presidential candidate, expressed one small area of disagreement------and a news station that functions without integrity, captured it on tape by using subterfuge and special equipment. That says a whole lot more about Fox News than it does about Jackson or Obama. And what it's saying isn't good for Fox or for our civil liberties. Since Obama does not have a clone, I doubt that there is one person in the country who agrees with absolutely everything he says, but that doesn't mean we don't totally support his presidency. I hope Jackson sues them down to their ugly, yellow, curved toenails.

By: James

James — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 20:48:23 +0000

I am not sure what the comments were by reading this article. Why have breaking news about an apology for comments the readers don't know?

By: Phantom of the Oprah

Phantom of the Oprah — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 20:48:22 +0000

See? No one can criticize Obama- because he won't allow it because he believes he is the Messiah.

Bush... well who DOESN'T RIP HIM?

Hillary... boy, so-called-democrats sure did denigrate and trash her- all in the name of hope, unity and change. And the sexual comments were best.

McCain... McPain, McSame, McShame, McBush... and all the usual slurs used against HRC.

By: MB

MB — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 20:48:22 +0000

Rev- you were caught that is why you are apologizing. Let the truth be told- All fathers take care of your children period. Black and Proud to be raising my 2 kids and my other 2 step kids

By: Talulah

Talulah — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 20:48:21 +0000

Jesse Jackson is a poor excuse and has a lot of nerve insulting anyone. He's just searching for more fame. He does not speak for Black Americans (or African Americans as he would say). Go away, Jesse. Obama is the truth and you can't handle it!

By: soWhat

soWhat — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 20:48:17 +0000

OMG! Someone was caught saying something negative about Obama! They should have their citizenship stripped and deported to some third world country.

After all, this is Obama and everyone knows that negative remarks by anyone (media, personal and opinions) towards Obama are not allowed in this country!

By: Illinois

Illinois — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 20:48:17 +0000

I wonder...did Obama's comments strike a cord with Jackson? Maybe if someone spoke of morality more often he and others representing the clergy may have chosen a different course of action in their own lives. If not Obama, who? Somebody needs to say it. And don't shot the messenger. It is not who's right...it's what's right. And clearly screwing around outside the marriage creating children out of wedlock is a problem. But it is not just in the African American churches. How can anyone be mad at him for telling it like it is? In stead of getting mad, make the adjustment and live longer, happier lives. Did he say it because he hated you? or because he wants to see you prosper? Stop getting it twisted. I guess Jackson would be mad it someone came up to his house and told him his house was on fire...He might respond, 'mind your own business! and what are you qualifications for determining when there is a fire?"

By: Ohio

Ohio — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 20:48:11 +0000

Hey Nevada. Instead of calling Fox the "lowest of the low" for reporting something that is actually newsworthy, why don't you take a look at the good reverend Jesse and throw some of your misdirected bitterness toward him. It's too bad that your liberal blinders won't let you see things as they really are... Jesse is a racist and Barack is an empty suit who is good at reading a teleprompter. Martin Luther King Jr. emplored us to "judge a man by the content of his character, not the color of his skin" and yet, multitudes of African Americans are jumping on the Obama band wagon BECAUSE of the color of his skin. How can any African American Christian (Jesse, Sharpton, etc.) be a supporter of Obama, who has so vehemently pushed for the legalized murder of babies, whether they're unborn, partially born, or even "accidentally" born?

By: karen-phoenix

karen-phoenix — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 20:48:10 +0000

If the media keeps their mouths shut and ignores this it will go away!! Just another way of Jackson getting the spot light. Loved how Obama has tried to bring "morality" back into the US for everyone-white and black!!! Great family–no divorce–no drugs and Mom, Dad and girls really do things together!!! Love the image for new young American families-white and black!!! And I'm a white gramma!!

By: Indianapolis

Indianapolis — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 20:48:10 +0000

Ever since the civil rights movement has been over in this country (IE – late 60's) Jesse jackson has been seeking some form of relevancy... more to Kuro's point.... the guy likes to talk and see his picture in the paper. Sounds more like self-gratification than anything.

By: Chris

Chris — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 20:48:07 +0000

Tenn Man, I think your name pretty much gave your stance away before you even commented.

By: Anonymous

Anonymous — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 20:48:03 +0000

Uhm, what exactly did Jesse say that was supposedly offensive? What kind of shoddy "reporting" gives you the text of an apology with no mention of why he's giving it?

By: John

John — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 20:48:03 +0000

Its alright Jesse just work your hardest for Barack, I grew up poor and white here in Iowa. We are divided more by a rich poor gap then ANYTHING else during my lifetime. All my brothers and sisters no matter what color, sexual prefrence, race, religion, or anything else should be treated as anything but equal. WE all need to join together and take this country away from the rich and special intrests and make this country great. Equality is equality, everyone should be looked after. Not the rich get richer like it has been. And to the critics that is not socalism thats Equal Rights for all.

By: Bdiddy from Chicago

Bdiddy from Chicago — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 20:47:54 +0000

One element they both have is that they are both correct. Obama's argument like Bill Cosby is correct the stats are behind it but one critical note that rev Jackson states is true that if you remove the elements of racism, high poverty and other factors that disporportionately effect the Black Community we don't know if those numbers will hold true.

We cannot ignore the reasons why Black men are absent from the home and just say it's by choice, there are factors that contribute to that behavior. As leaders they have to attack both sides not just lable it a Black problem.

By: Shawn, Takoma Park, MD

Shawn, Takoma Park, MD — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 20:47:54 +0000

If anything, this will help Obama.

He was absolutely right, afterall. The black community obviously DOES have a problem with black male responsibility in the family and it's just a fact. Jesse Jackson just can't admit that and he will never help the black community until he does.

By: Lambert Moore

Lambert Moore — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 20:47:53 +0000

I am a 52 year old male african american and we have got to move beyond of when criticism is level against the african american community if it is true it is what it is and it is up to the individuals to accept or change .

By: maurice

maurice — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 20:47:53 +0000

if its on Fox News it smells..... Get ready Obama for everything and the kitchen sink.... .. power isnt giving, its taken...

By: Cynthia

Cynthia — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 20:47:51 +0000

Barack Obama's comments about the negative impact of children growing up without a father were an insult to the tens of thousands of lesbian mothers in the country who are raising healthy, moral, and well-loved children without a father in the home. His comments may have offended Jesse Jackson as a black man but they offended me as a lesbian. Obama seems to continue this pattern of insensitive comments that offend many...including his absurd and misogynistic comment to Senator Clinton during the Unity, NH appearance that she does so many wonderful things for this country "all while wearing heels." What a jerk.

By: Ehiwario

Ehiwario — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 20:47:47 +0000

Go Obama!

Chuks ehiwari, Germany

By: jmm232

jmm232 — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 20:47:47 +0000

Seems funny that someone without any moral fiber would criticize someone about their morality. What Obama said was truth. If "religious leaders" aren't going to say what is needed, I applaud Obama for doing so.

Jackson is a sleezy opportunist. Nothing more.

By: fixmaster

fixmaster — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 20:47:47 +0000

And where is the comment he made? How is this complete news if you are not even quoting the actual comments he made?
CNN YOU LET ME DOWN ON THIS ONE

By: Dale Stewart

Dale Stewart — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 20:47:46 +0000

Barack said nothing to evoke such a comment from Jackson. It shows what a hypocrite Jackson is and what a competent leader Obama is.

By: BeakKnocker

BeakKnocker — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 20:47:43 +0000

Jessie Jackson has, like Ralph Nader, become an ineffectual
and out of touch dramatist, desperate to remain on the national stage.

By: Anthony

Anthony — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 20:47:39 +0000

I guess this is news. Just the fact that it was Fox who recorded this makes it even worse.

By: tom

tom — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 20:47:37 +0000

Nevada, don't be such an idiot. It probably was unintentional. This sort of thing has happened at just about every news channel I have ever watched. Plus, I wonder why anyone still cares what Jesse says–he is about the most pathetic public figure there is. Apparently, he thinks he is the only one who can give advice to the black community. Barry finally says something right and Jesse can't stand it–if followed it would put him out of business and he would have to get a real job.

By: Adam, Pittsburgh

Adam, Pittsburgh — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 20:47:34 +0000

In some ways, Obama will probably take all the Jackson/Sharpton criticism he can get.

By: barackobama4prez

barackobama4prez — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 20:47:31 +0000

How is he hurting his message Rev? This is old news in the Black churches. Shut your hole...he doesn't need "help".

By: Adonay

Adonay — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 20:47:26 +0000

to be honest I am glad Obama is being honest in saying hey there are many Blacks that give the majority a bad name. There are also many Whites, Hispanics, Asians, Europeans, etc that do the same to those groups.

We all jump at the first hint of a failure to criticize the majority, instead of thakning and motiviating those that do good. Here Obama is simply in a sense saying "lets prove to to ourselves and to all that we are a great group of people that doea help this country." Shame on Jesse for disparaging remarks of a man willing to stand up and say enough!

I am hispanic, grew up in the DC area. I went to private shcool and pursuing an aerospace engineering career. I also ahve had my furstrations with portrayls of Hispanics, but mostly with the vainty and ignorance of many Hispanics I have known. The majority are hard workers and honest people. One can say the same of any other group. All of us have flaws, but instead of accepting them or pointing them out, we should rectify them! I applaud Obama for asking not just Blacks but all people to better themselves. No I am not a democrat, I have been a registered Republican (moderate) for some time now.

By: Dre

Dre — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 20:47:26 +0000

So in other words, don't tell blacks what they need to hear. Keep the dirty laundry of the Black community quiet; shhhhhh! Better not talk about it! Meanwhile, self appointed black "leaders" like Jackson and Sharpton continue to lead blacks down the wrong path and continue their 40+ years of destroying Dr. King's vision of black folks. I have more respect for my own people of 40 years ago and earlier than I do now. I guess instead of preaching self reliance, he'd be happier if Obama was going around preaching the ol' "You are the victim of white America" nonsense. As a black person, I find the man(Jackson) shameful.

By: Ryuken

Ryuken — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 20:47:20 +0000

Well Senator Obama is hurting his credibility with white voters through is connection to that horrible church he has been a part of for 30 years. I can't vote for anyone who for 20 years has been part of an organization that preaches hate and racism.

By: Cal

Cal — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 20:47:20 +0000

Reminds me of the old line, "I'll be for you or against you, whichever will do you the most good."

Add Jesse Jackson to the list of people whose opposition helps Obama secure the middle ground...Karl Rove, Hamas, etc.

By: Texas

Texas — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 20:47:14 +0000

Seems like everyday Obama steps in it. He's the last thing we need for a president. He's a JOKE!

By: Kevin

Kevin — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 20:47:09 +0000

Wait, Nevada – Jesse Jackson's true feelings about Obama finally coming to light is somehow the fault of FNC?

This is beautiful. Were you similarly dismissive of Reagan's legendary "bombing begins in five minutes" hot-mic gaffe? Of the media putting troop positions and combat strategies on television for the enemy to watch? Of the media exposing Dick Cheney's dressing down of a colleague in a private conversation on the Senate floor?

I somehow doubt it.

I'm not sure what will be more entertaining – hearing what Jackson really thinks, or watching every channel BUT Fox try to explain it away in the hopes that the official candidate of the media gets elected in November.

By: MS

MS — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 20:47:08 +0000

The press won't repeat what Jesse Jackson actually said. Would a McCain supporter receive the same consideration? No way. The press would be putting the crude, offensive language out there high volume, and they'd make sure it was connected to McCain.

By: Tony

Tony — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 20:47:05 +0000

Right, wrong or indifferent, it’s nice to see Jackson take responsibility for his words and apologize; a lesser man would not have done so.

By: Ula Nejad- Sacramento Ca

Ula Nejad- Sacramento Ca — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 20:47:05 +0000

He does not need to apologize. I agree, the democrative nominee went out of line. I give Jackson credit for saying it like it is. What does Farrakhan have to say?

By: Sandy Fox

Sandy Fox — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 20:47:02 +0000

FOX and (reputable) NEWS don't belong in the same sentence.
Sen. Obama was only raising an issue that should be important to all and was making it relevant to those he was speaking to at the time.

By: Steve

Steve — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 20:47:02 +0000

Where is the link to the sound bite? What did Jesse say?

By: V New York

V New York — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 20:47:01 +0000

It is Fox's duty to report news. This is news. How does that make them "low"? Indeed, the "lowest of the low"? Are the news outlets to be blamed for the actions of the Rev. Jesse Jackson. Should we "shield the public" from this issue? Please explain.

By: Me

Me — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 20:46:58 +0000

Let's get this straight Nevada, Jesse Jackson says something derogatory about Obama and it's the fault of Fox? Good luck with that.

By: GLH

GLH — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 20:46:55 +0000

What is there to apologize for, Jesse Jackson said it, meant it and got caught red handed for his remark. Unfortunately the Democrats do not have the discpilne to shut up and unify behind their candidate. Obama's comments were valid and relevant. Jackson's, as always, were pandering and motivated not by conviction and courage but by what he thought people wanted to hear.

By: baljeet

baljeet — Wed, 09 Jul 2008 20:46:54 +0000

Barak Obama can do no wrong , he is perfect and we should vote for him no matter what other people say about him. Thai is the message we get from the obama team.