CNN

Isn't it funny that CNN chooses the headline, "Obama camp rebukes Bernie Mac over joke", when what Obama actually says is, "This is a family affair. By the way, I'm just messing with you, man."

Obama is not president material and can not even stand up to a comedian. He wants to try and work both sides of every issue. Even here he says clean up your act so that he sounds tough, then he says just messing with you, man, as not to offend Bernie Mac or his fans.

Obama is repulsive and certainly does not represent change as he says he does.

I'll say this much, to a point they are both right. But Jackson was wrong to criticize Obama because what he criticized was right. The problem is this is honestly a problem that should have been addressed a gneration ago. I as an AA man can affirm that most of my peers are taking care of their kids. Actually, it wasthe generation before mine that kind of slacked. Now that was due to many factors, drugs, Reagan's "war on drugs, etc. Many AA's of my generation are good fathers even if they are living morally wrong. i.e. selling drugs, etc. That is probably because most of them DIDN'T have that relationship with their fathers, so they know how important it is. It's a dual edged sword people, there needs to be more money poured into urban and rural communities alike. But there also is a point when self reliance, and responsibility have to kick in......Just my 2 cents......

People that pay to see Bernie know what they are getting. As warm up for his choice for next president of the US that audience was not his.

Target audience is everything. Thats one of the reasons why the TV show "Jericho" failed. Wonderful idea for a unique story but it would have done much better on FOX. Not knowing your audience can be very costly indeed.

If I were Obama I would invite Bernie back to make things right again for everyone (Bernie included). But do so with the understanding that he leave out the kind of things that got him into trouble this time.

Whiners!!!!! McSame says we are all whiners in a mental recession. IN other words, we are cry babies and we are not smart enough to think for ourselves. You know, we are not really losing money, it's just a perception..

I agree with EVERYTHING said by Mc Cain Democrat posted above.

The final sentence sums it up well ...."As a man Obama, you leave much to be desired."

to the joke was in bad-taste people: Don't watch comedy or else get thicker skin, and stop being so over sensitive to everything. You wouldn't last 5 minutes with Paul Mooney or Chris Rock. Bernie Mac is a light-weight, and I am surpised so many are upset over this comic. This was a fundraiser, not a press conference or a stadium filled with 75,000 people. So who really cares what washed-up Bernie said?

That was much. Bernie Mac should had recognized he was not in a nightclub. Did he not know about the Priest or Pastor Wright?
Surrogates shold be quiet for a week!

Maybe Bernie backs McCain.

@ Casey & Uugh!

Why must Tom be labeled as a racist? Perhaps he thinks Obama is not the best choice for President. Numerous posts have been made in a negative manner regarding McCain. Senile, Old, etc...no one accuses those making those statements to be shallow or a POS. Please if you are going to take the high moral ground then spread it evenly.

what a bunch of snobs....Bernie Mac for VP!

What he said , couldn't have been as "Funny", as the 'side-show" after "side-show" soap-opera; this present election process, has become, right before our eyes. Now, that's funny.........in reality time!

BERNI MAC....YOUR GREAT

My Hat is off to you...Berni Mac.
You did nothing wrong and if they cant take a joke. Why should we vote for them in November.

Can you post my comments.

Is this really a ticker story????? How are the librarian being ticketed for have a McCain -Bush sign or Bush saying that climate issues will have to be dealt with the new Pres.?

To Hussein Hussein,

I think you miss the point and I have to say that you DO appear racist when you deliberately switch Senator Obama's name and your tag name says it all. His name is Barack Hussein Obama. Learn it because he will be your new president come Nov. What exacty is wrong with forgiving someone? And why does that sicken you?

HRC what does Bernie's joke have to do with Barack taking responsibilitly? Barack can not help what comments Bernie makes or does not make. I think he handled with respect to Bernie and his audience.

The real joke is that CNN decides this is news.

How about reporting about the $9.4+ trillion debt?
How bout reporting on the $5 trillion of that debt held by foreign governments like China and Middle East governments?
How about reporting on the doubling of the dollar supply over the last 8 years?
How about reporting on the amount of money the Fed pays in interest each year (more than double the amount spent on the Iraq War)?
How about reporting on the candidates plans to eliminate the deficit?

Oh, right... I forgot. Neither of the Republicrats have any plans to fix any of these problems. Well in that case I guess Bernie Mac is a good a distraction as any other...

Have we become a nation of prudes? Pardon me, but I just woke up after a long sleep.

So this is the window of what it's going to be like the next 4 years if Obama is elected, God help us...Being faced with 2 awful, terrible candidates, I can only hope their VP picks adds something to either ticket.

Maybe Bernie heard Jesse. Sounds like the same theme. I am so looking forward to Mothers' Day.

Don Imus says stuff like this and the obama crowd chases him away. when obama's crowd says stuff like this they terrorist fist bump him.

why do real americans, hard working americans not vote for him? because he and his friends hate us. they want to talk to iran and let the government of iraq boss us around. america should rule the middle east with an iron fisy until we know that threat to america is over

vote mccain 08!

Really, now. I bet Barrack was just as suprised as everyone else when Bernie Mac made this joke. I mean, an accomplished comedian and actor should have known better. There was nothing Barrack should have had to say before hand to Mac. Common sense should have prevailed. If any of us would have been in Barrack's shoes that day, would we have handled it any different? Barrack tried to maintain dignity and not let things get out of control after obviously being stunned and dumbfound by this thoughtless joke. Way to help a brother, Mac. You should be very ashamed.

Those types of jokes are to be expected from Bernie Mac. Nobody in Obama's camp thought that the jokes would turn blue? Gimma a break. In the future, Obama may want to make sure that his friends performing to support him submit their acts to his campaign ahead of time so they can avoid such problems.

I also want to add, that when DON IMUS called some women ho's he got it big time from the self appointed/media appointed speaker of all black people in america REV AL... Where is the outrage here Al? oh right its that double standard rearing its ugly head just like it did when obama got away with calling his grandma typical white person, while bill got nailed for saying Jesse jackson won south caroling and Hillary got nailed for saying LBJ had something to do with the civil rights movment also. As and African American female I am sick of the double standards and if mr obama really wants to stand for change he should come out and say that it is not okay for one to condem comments from someone else, yet other comments slide from someone else simply because they are the right color.

Barack, Barack.. with all the fabulous talented support you have like Bruce Springsteen, John Mellancamp Dave Matthews..what is your campaign doing!!?? This guy is not even good at comedy. I wish Barack would get back to his foundation of HOPE and the future and stay on course.. his message is important but is getting bogged down by this kind of stuff.. I support Barack but wouldn't want my son in a crowd listenening to that crappolla.. wise up campaign special event planners!!

I have a great respect for this intelligent en experienced future President of the USA. I only will have to ask him to let his campaign staff filter these kind of losers who think that they are funny and that their dirty jokes are all over accepted.

SHAME ON YOU MR BURNIE MAC!!!!!!!!!!!!

HRC all the way,
As tasteless and wrong as what Bernie said was, its still not as wrong as Hillary's lies about her foreign experience, Greenland impact and lets not forget ducking gun fire.

Arent Jesse and Al supposed to come protest when an entertainer calls women 'ho's' .... I think I remember a similar situation but seems this one got a different response! I guess it only works one way and only then are there protests demanding he be fired.

Obama, if you did not know Bernie's humor, (or you Reverend's ideology), if you did not expect this to happen, how in the world can we trust you to figure out things like terrorism or the economy. Sounds like youre not too bright.

And are you rebuking the comments or 'just messing with' him?

I have heard many inspiring speeches from Sen. Obama about hope and change and a new brand of politics. Every once in a while he would actually say some specific policy in those glowing speeches such as filibustering the immunity of telecoms, getting troops out quickly (16 months), renegotiating NAFTA, complete support for a woman's right to choose. And because of this message of hope and these few specifics he won many primaries and is the presumptive nominee. Based on these few specifics he got support from NARAL, and unions because he was the candidate of change. Just this last week he was courting the women's vote with more kind words and very few specifics.

Now he has caved on the telecom issue, qualified his position on choice (really women who may just be blue), has said NAFTA is fine and is refining his position on withdrawal of troops from Iraq. Now he is present when a comedian again denigrates women by the use of HOs and he just laughs it off. Brushes it off like he did with reference to Clinton.

As a democrat, I can only be stunned wondering what we have done to be ready to nominate a man who has no principles to stand on. He will say anything to be elected and means nothing. I feel sorry for the unions and NARAL who went out on a limb to support him and now find him sawing it off behind them.

I cannot support John McCain because of his stand on the issues but at least I respect him for taking a stand and sticking with it. I can only hope that before the convention more of our delegates will change their minds but I realize that we are probably stuck with this candidate. It is too bad because we really need a strong and principled democrat in the White House to undo the damage of the Bush administration and to lead us into an era of energy independence and economic upswing. McCain doesn't have the policies to do that and Obama has neither the strength nor the principles.

My one vote will ONLY go to Mrs.Clinton.

whatever. this is not as bad as "bomb, bomb, bomb, bomb-Iran" or hoping American cigarettes will kill Iranian civilians or telling Americans or Energy problems are psychological. I know Barack having awkwardness with a black person is more-profitable for your tv and net sponsors, but come on CNN!

We know who's in McCains pockets. Hope you are enjoying you good seats on his plane.

How about some journalistic responsibility?

Thanks

I am a typical white ho stuck under a very crowded bus with an extremely racist bunch of parasites and terrorists, who is being forced to vote against her interests, for the sake of her country.
Obama go away already. Oh, and the $600 dollar rebate check your wife spent on earrings, could of paid for a kid to have a wonderful summer camp experience, but what do you care. Yuck.
Your character is an issue, it is not a diversion, you are running for President. Stop blaming Bush for all the problems, tell the American people how the democrats make it impossible for America to address their energy needs which forces us to send billions of our money overseas, making other people rich. Your support for ethanol is promoting word hunger. You treated democrats like dirt. 5 states broke rule 11, but only 2 were punished, while you blocked a revote.
We will not be quite, we will expose your rotten core.
As a man Obama, you leave much to be desired.

Well, you are known by the company you keep.

And yes, for $2,300 a plate for his political stuff I think the should continue all this money stuff if he elected Pres. so he does not raise my taxes.

Obama is a chump

Ooooh, Ooooh, a joke at an Obama fundraiser goes over like a crutch and the OBH campaign is forced to issue statements and apologies because if they DON'T, they won't be on record as issuing statements and apologies. And if they're not on record, conservatives - you know, the ones who abhor political correctness - await in the wings, salivating at the thought of being able to jump on yet one more example of Obama's unapologetic woman-hating and hypocritical race-baiting.

My questions is simple: How does such predictable and sophomoric political theater keep earning the "news" label?

Obama is trying to be everything to everyone with such actions and in the end he will be nothing but an empty shell. What does he stand for. I am very confused. So now he is against humor. I guess we can look forward to a country where you are abandoned for excercising your first amendment right. He seems to be condemning people right and left for doing so. My biggest fear is that in the end he will be such a bad President that we will not see another minority candidate for 100 years. Which means all minorities and women should be concerned. I know I am. It only takes one bad apple to spoil the barrel.

Experience counts: Enjoyed your analogy. No wait maybe I didn't! Oh no wait there, I did if you did?
I'm surprised that Obie didn't fall right over with that kind of waffling.
Standard politicing.
One of many reasons not to vote for this man.Obies success leaves me without a candidate as I cannot as a woman, in good conscience vote for a republican.
What do you think of voting Hilliary on a write-in?

There is a major difference between Obama and the GOP. Recall during the Republican Revolution the mantra was to shame and blame. This led to a very unstable moral highground. Very unstable as New's adultry, divorce, and remarriage illustrated as did all the other scandals to come. Obama, uses a different mantra – Praise and Blame, He praises McFlipFLop and then pounces. He praises Bernie and then tells him to clean up his act. McFlipFlop is still stuck in the 1990's. Bernie, Jackson, and others need to stop the distractions. Keep it simple stupid. Let the praise and blame be used against the GOP rather than used to respond to distractions.

Here's a prime example of what you have to look forward to, you stupid Lemmings that follow Obama blindly, you say you're all about our freedoms, etc. Yet you blindly push for someone who's all about stifiling our basic rights, freedom of speech in this case. That's ok though, when you wake up one day and wonder why there's a gun in your face over a "joke" you made, you'll have nobody to blame but yourself, and to clarify what I mean: You think we live in a police state now, wait until you put Obama in office. I applaud Jesse Jackson's comments, I don't feel Bernie Mac did anything wrong. I can't stand Jesse Jackson, but all he was doing was exercising his first amendment right, and what did it get him, thrown under the bus. Bernie Mac is an artist, and all he was doing was plying his trade the best he knew how, and all it got him was thrown under the bus, not to mention further re-enforced Jackson's comments. Democrats wake up and smell the coffee, before Obama throws you under the bus too.

CNN please delete this ticker, it is like you have nothing else to post in the ticker.

Shame shame CNN ....if obama farts it will be posted for days, but when Mccain top adviser abuse the nation it was only posted for hours.

Shame on you CNN.
Just say you support Mccain ....

I'm a Mac fan, but geesh, man, you gotta know the difference between a comedy club full of alcohol-filled people and a genteel fundraiser. Bernie, my man, everyone will jump on Barack because of your heavy-handed comments..... I have a feeling you won't be invited back....

Only when Obama's "friends" get caught bad mouthing and denigrating does he step in and offer apologies. Guess it is all right not to say anything as long as they're not caught. Sure does have a lot of friends who denigrate women, the USA, and God. Seems like he should be in a middle east country, not the USA.

The comedian said that night that politics is dirty.

I wonder if the comedian was implying that Obama is a Chicago-made, Chicagoan style, clean politician................

I like Bernie Mac. I think he's funny.

But this was not the place for a joke like that.

What was he thinking?

I'd rather listen to Bernie than some of the cornballs that the G.O.P. think are funny!

The majority of Obama's supporters have no "knee-jerk" reaction to anything he says or does, nor to those with whom he is connected. This is a good example of the dysfunctional family in it's early stages that has a low rock bottom. He seems to attract supporters that never seemed to quite fit in with the "norms" so they react by creating their own new standards (e.g.. gang mentality). I can think of great leaders that understood necessary change and proper implementation in it's purity that left antagonists harboring lesser motives naked. Obama's life experiences gave him the opportunity many times to hone them to a keen understanding of a great unifying, keen balancing act, but with his choices (whomever suited/suits the necessary objective at the time) of mentors and disciples as well has left him confused, biased and sometimes derelict. Unfortunately, he did not mature into fruition and can possibly be rendered useless when we are most vulnerable. This election plays perfectly into the character (permanent actor) flaws he possesses, creating a long, perfect storm wreaking the havoc an indecisive leader brings. Knowing that Obama is bright and arrogant, I can only imagine his perplexity and disappointment in the "fan base" he draws. I will note that it is sad and common that the "norms" in the family let this dysfunction continue.

Don Imus had no comment.

It is nice to see by reading through these post that people are finally starting to see Obama for what he is, an inexperienced liar who will say anything to get elected. His choice of friends ranging from rev. Wright to Ayeres, should be telling. This guy is a piece of work. why do you thing Jesse Jackson had such negative things to say about him. He sees obama for what he is, why cant so many other people.

If, as a black candidate, you can't get the support of Jesse jackson, you know there is something very very wrong with him.

America, there is a huge elephant in the living room, time to fess up about it.

I am voitng for McCain.

you can't censor a comedian. you can't! these people knew better. bernie mac doesn't do clean jokes.

stupid obama fanboys.

Really, is it that serious? It's Bernie Mac... His comedy has always been funny but on the edge. No big deal, but now Obama has to condemn comedians @ one of his parties....lol America has become way too PC

It’s 3am and your children are safe and asleep

But there’s a phone in the White House and it’s ringing

Something’s happening in the world

Your vote will decide who answers that call.

Whether it’s someone who already knows the world’s leaders, knows the military – someone tested and ready to lead in a dangerous world

It’s 3am and your children are safe and asleep

Who do you want answering the phone?

Doesn't Obama research anything? Bernie Mac's comedy routine is vulgar. Asking him to tone it done is like inviting Jenna Jameson to a kid's birthday party . It doesn't make sense. This was BAD judgement on the Senator's part.

Like Bernie said in House party 3 , "Up against the walls with hand cuffs on!"

Gee...another idiot opening his mouth for Obama.

Never in our life time has such a fool been nominated to run for POTUS.

JOKES!! They are only jokes people. If you choose not to laugh that's fine, don't. Just please, don't ask a comedian to come on stage and not tell jokes! This country needs jokes right now. Laugh a little bit and quit being so uptight. Sheesh!

Hey CNN...

Just an FYI, your writer misspelled the word "Senator" as Senstor.

you might want to look into that....and also finding some real news.

@tom
If you can't tell the difference between a crude joke and Robert Mugabe
in Zimbabwe, then YOU are the dangerous one. Please educate yourself before you let your ignorance fall out of that pie hole.

I agree that someone wasn't thinking when they decided on Bernie Mac participating in any portion of a fundraiser, particularly if they didn't lay down ground rules, but I doubt Obama made those decisions.

Do you really think that every little thing is decided at his level?

At least Obama didn't say any of it. Unlike McWar, who has, on more than one occasion, sung his "bomb, bomb Iran" song and joked about providing more cigarettes to Iranians to kill them.

No Bush Third Term

Get a life, folks.

I cant believe people are still whining for Hillary...IT'S OVER, GET IT THROUGH YOUR THICK SKULLS...

The joke was in really bad taste, but the real joke is the nit wits here trying to link Bernie's offesive joke with Obama's reaction. Talk about grasping at straws, McCain can talk in jest about murdering Iranian civillians when asked about cigarette exports and that's ok???

Barack FIRE your pulic relations division period. Two gaffes in one week, are two too many. Whoever you have is of no quality. They should have seen this coming from a has been.

Bernie Mack does not represent anyone! He represents himself, which proves that he used the event to promote himself. He knew what he was going to say would give him some publicity.

What I say to Mack is that you are so ridiculous to use this to get some publicity. So much so that I will no longer watch anything that you are on!

You are a sick individual whose star has certainly fallen.

I think it's funny how every time a supposed 'friend' of Obama's makes a statement, racist, sexist, anti-black, anti-white or whatever the case may have been, it immediately comes down to 'Obama can't be trusted' and 'Obama rebukes his friends'. I hate to break the news to everyone, but the man is trying to run for presidency. Politics suggest that he needs to speak for the people, which for the most part his policies and opinions do, but that doesn't mean he can control what and how his friends might act. Be anti-obama all you want if you have differing views on his policies, but to flame the boards about dishonesty because he condemned a friend for making a sexist joke is like trying your best to separate yourself from your drunken college days, or that friend that you stood by when they cheated on a test, or what not. Hate to break the news to some people, but I am pretty sure we all have one or two friends we regret bringing out in public sometimes because they lack something called tact.

Obama '08

This was reported just so that the Hillary supporters and Obama haters can whine and complain and blah blah. We get it! If you don't want to vote for him, then don't. But please shut up.

OBAMA is not for blacks anymore. I am asking my black sisters and brothers not to vote for Obama .

Why is my comment still in moderation when others far worst comments such as mine above are posted right away? Either post it or delete it. Do something CNN? I'm tired of your support of OBAMA.

Obama wants it BOTH ways – as usual – he wants a black man there to introduce him – but wants to look "cool" so he invites this guy – but then does not want the guy to do what he normally does.

BO can't decide who he is, what he stands for, what race he exemplifies. Is he going to be surprised in November.....

HOW MANY NEO-CON CONSERVATIVE REPUBLICANS DOES IT TAKE TO SCREW IN A LIGHT BULB?????

NOBODY KNOWS........THEY DO IT IN SECRET !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

VOTE FOR BARACK OBAMA.........
BECAUSE IT'S THE RIGHT THING TO DO !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!1

Agree with CE. Politics has really become petty and trivial that our candidates have to be prepared to ditch anyone for expressing an honest opinion. Bernie Mac, Jesse Jackson, Ralph Nader, Geraldine Ferraro, Jeremiah Wright. I'll even include Don Imus (with reservations). How long is this list going to get before liberals realize that political correctness is an intellectual and political dead-end?

Only Barack would be dumb enough to bring on a comedian, like Bernie Mac, and not expect him to that kind of joke. Mac makes his money on that type of crap.

Its no worse when Mac says it in his stand-up routine. If Barack Obama REALLY respected women, he wouldn't have had a comedian that does jokes like that open for him. End of story.
Then again, what do we expect from a man that dismisses female reporters with "sweetie".

obama shows another expression of love, that is pitching his friends under the bus. This unpatriotic candidate throws them under the bus often. ask his preacher, his grannie, Jesse, and now Bernie Mac.

Give me a break and let's throw obama under that bus and elect John McCain, an old fashioned patriot, as our next president.

Bad decision to have this fool on the stage. This is just late-night BET comedy hour material and has no place anywhere else.

Have you ever heard the old saying "Birds of a feather stick together"

You judge a person by the company they keep.

Dosen't say much for Obama does it?

I think the joke isn't that bad. And I think America is seeing how "non white" Americans interact. We don't spend a lot of time postering for our family and friends. America is so fake it's sicking. The media covers stories like this mean while health care is killing people and our government does nothing.

This is how Obama finished his so-called reprimand:

"...By the way, I'm just messing with you, man."

This doesn't sound like a reprimand to me. Imagine talking to your kid and saying: "Clean up your room! OK I'm just messing with you kid."

Why doesn't the media cover this guy honestly? We've had a primary in which he was covered with kid gloves (are we seriously going to have a president who will kiss up to Ahmadinejad ???), and now apparently we'll have a general election where we'll pretend that Obama reprimands someone even though he says in the same breath that he's just "messing with" this man!!!

I think Senator Obama is messing with all of us. It's time for CNN and other media to call him on it.

tom wrote July 12th, 2008 1:09 pm ET
no surprise as jessie jackson said Obama is trying to keep the black man down. talking down to the black man.
wake up white america or with Robert mug err…. i mean Barry obama "sorry i dont call him by his Muslim name" at the helm we will get the same thing zimbabwe got.
_____________________________________________________
hey man, do you realize you are a POS...?
said a black person could not do a lot of things...why do have to keep proving you wrong?
Langston Hughes, Nikkie Giovanni, Crispus Attucks, B.K. Bruce, George W. Carver, Charles Drew , MLK, Mathew Henson, Scott Joplin, Jacob Lawrence, Elijah McCoy, Jesse Owens, Gordon Parks, Jordon, Tiger Woods, Oprah, Madame CJ Walker, Suzan-Lori Parks, Colin Powell....and so many more African Americans in the face of great opposition ans stupidity like yours have contributed greatly to this country and the world...

This is typical CNN.....The headline CNN uses for this article...."Obama camp rebukes Benie Mac over joke". Obama did not rebuke Bernie Mac. He said, "By the way, I'm just messing with you, man". Why doesn't CNN report the news as truth instead of once again showing its bias for Obama. Obama can not even stand up to a comedian. How is he going to stand up to a world leader. He is a weakling that stands for nothing and flip flops like the wind. Because he is black no one will tell the truth about him. If you call him what he truely is everyone labels you as a racist.

By the way, I'm just messing with you, man.

THIS IS CRAP THE MAN SPEAKS FOR HIMSELF...THE MORE TRIVIAL THE ATTACK THE MORE CREDIBILITY HE WILL GET..
BY THE WAY HIS COMMENT RAISED GAS PRICES BUY 2$...NOT

BERNIE YOU HAVE PROJECTED A STEREOTYPE UPON A MAN WHO IS ANYTHING BUT STEREOTYPICAL!

PLEASE THINK BEFORE YOU SPEAK; AND BY ALL MEANS CEASE REFERRING TO ANY WOMAN AS A "HO"!

voted "present" 100 times. what did you expect, a real stand on any issue?

Lisa said July 12th, 2008 1:29pm ET "This is very unprofessional!!! These are the type of friends Obama will hang out with in the White House." I agree the comment was unprofessional and I fault the Obama campaign for considering Bernie for this kind of event. It would have been much safer to go with a Bill Cosby, or a Seinfeld. I also fault Bernie Mac to some degree where you have to know your audience and your environment. He should know when you can do certain things and when you can not, and he obviously does not. But these complaints of throwing people under the bus everytime Senator Obama criticizes somebody are just getting to be nutts. On one hand people want to sit back and say "oh well, we don't know enough about him." Then he responds to things he agrees and disagrees with, and gives you a chance to learn something about his philosophy. But what is it; he can't criticize anyone? That is nutts. I am sure you criticized some of the very people you listed. Unfortunately everyone is not perfect and though you may like them or agree with SOME of the things they do and say, you are not obligated to agree with everything. That would be just plain dumb and nobody would vote for someone that shallow. Nor should they want to. People blow things up on these blogs so they are far out of proportion just because they like another candidate, and we all owe it to everyone to be more objective. I have been an Obama supporter since the beginning, but I was furious over his FISA vote and in my mind, I simply can not defend it. But I know my candidate and me are 2 different people who aren't always going to do the same things or think the same way. Same with Mac. Obama, or the campaign person who's job it is to find speakers for these events, probably trusted Bernie Mac, a grown man, to be versitile enough to handle the situation and he didn't. As a consequence, Bernie got some much needed criticism.

Meanwhile McWar said he will pay for his econ plan by getting out of Iraq and said that he will stay in Iraq!

CNN=BIAS Did you even do a story about McCain's smoking thing being a way to kill people in Iran? OR their response?

He would have to be talking peace with Iran, but between bomb bomb Iran and this they hate him already.

I am not surprised that Mac said this? Why would Obama let him speak in the first place? Another poor decision by Obama and his campaign!

Slowly we see the kind of people Obama surrounds himself with. Next up, Don Imus at an Obama fundraiser.

Obama is so very inept.

If many of you posters let these little "glitches" change your votes then either you were never going to vote Dem in the first place or you are just looking for an excuse not to vote for Obama.
The big difference between Dems and Reps is ideolological. The difference between caring and not caring. Peace and war.
Inclusion and exclusion.
I am a Dem because the basic philosphy echoes my own. I am for Sen. Obama because he best represents me and my own opinions.
Inflexibilty is not a blessing but a curse. Refusal to admit error and rethink situations as circumstances change is a GOP fault and is destroying our country. Don't blame the Dem congress. They have been at the mercy of a Despotic President who vetoes any Dem proposals just because he can. No matter how good they may be.
This is not patriotism but intrangience and greed. Lying to start a war is the treason. Defending the treason is worse.

SHAME ON YOU BERNIE MAC!
IT WAS BAD ENOUGH TO HEAR THAT WE ARE IN A "MENTAL RECESSION"!
THEN YOU HAD THE AUDACITY TO COME OUT WITH SUCH DISTASTEFUL REMARKS!

OBAMA IS NOT RUNNING TO BE THE "BLACK PRESIDENT"!

HE IS RUNNING TO BE THE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA....FOR ALL PEOPLES AND ETHNICITIES THEREIN!

OBAMA'S ETHNICITY IS HAPPENSTANCE! AMERICAN FIRST; ETHNICITY SECOND!

HOW COULD YOU BE SO NARROWMINDED IN JUDGMENT AND PERSPECTIVE?

This is a joke. You may not agree or like what he has to say but he has the right to say it. I personally love bernie mac and I do not degrade women in any way.

Get off your high horses. I crack up when I hear that Mac is someone from the "old" generation. Oh you mean the generation that does all the work and built everything you have today. Now all the sudden there is a downturn and the "old" generation is suppsosed to be taboo.

I have hope. I hope your joking.

The problem here is that everyone in America thinks they are "holier than thou" and would NEVER EVER Laugh at things like this. WHEN THEY HAVE DONE SO BEFORE. And to say he needs to clean up his act, as if he never knew of his vulgarity at all is just a little ridiculous. Come on people -

PRESIDENTS LIKE DIRTY JOKES ,TOO!EXCEPT BUSH,CAUSE HE DONT KNOW ANY.

Obama will make Bernie Mack our Secratary of State.

Why do so some folks think that something "tacky" or inappropriate" is always something "black" and if your not with it, your not black enough..I am dissapointed in both of them..
I like Bernie Mac a whole lot but there is a time and place for everything, and this was not it...I like Barack but stick to your guns...when you give a person a piece of your mind, drop the "I'm kidding" part.

HRC ALL THE WAY July 12th, 2008 12:55 pm ET

when is BHO going to take responsibility for his actions? I will not vote for him, not in November not 4 years from now, not ever!
______________________________________________________
wow you are an IDEOT!!!! the more i read these post, the more i believe that an aptitude test should be given out before people can vote. Obama did rebuke the comments that BERNI made....they were not Obama's remarks....they were Berni's.
further more, when is John McCain going to take responsibility for the USS Forrestal July 29, 1967? when will McCain take responsibility for all of his LIES?

Totally INAPPROPRIATE! Am very disappointed in this and I am a strong Obama supporter.

But what I find more disappointing and inappropriate is the fact that while CNN continues to display every single breath of the Obama campaign you refuse to bring out what has come out of McCain's own mouth.

Just this week there have been horrendous things that have gone unreported/underreported such as McCain's "funniest" ten ways to kill Iranians, his words on Social Security, his lying about the 300 economic advisers backing his economic plan, his wanting to kick Russia out of the G8, his response to the Vietnam Vet in the town hall meeting who called him on his legislative lack of support for vets vs. what he claims, etc., etc.

By covering every breath Obama or a surrogate take, you are proving to subtley undermine his candidacy at every turn by NOT covering McCain with the same scrutiny.

What's up with these people.. This is a lifetime opportunity for them to see the most qualified african american as President of United States of America and his own people cant swallow the fact??
Grow up , Grow up, Grow up..... Just stay away from Mr. Obama and try to be decent.
Had they voted 60 – 40 or 70 – 30 to Obama / Hillary in the primaries instead of 90 -10... Obama would have won a lot more white voters..
People you have to understand, this is not what Obama really wants. There are things that get out of control in a race and this is one of them.
Overall Obama is the Champ.
OBAMA (2008 -16)

Is this TMZ or cnn ? Its funny when the cartoons are more political than the major news networks. I really dont want to believe we are this gullible.

Lighten up people...Bernie Mac is a comedian, period. He was doing part of his comedy routine...obviously an old routine as that joke is ancient...the point is, he is a comedian, he told a joke. Some people were offended...get over it...this has nothing to do with Obama, and it has nothing to do with race...it was just a bad joke by a B-list comedian.

And to you idiots who keep thinking Obama is a Muslim...grow up...all you are doing is trying to play off the fears of Americans...we are not buying it and if you truly believe that crap, then I feel sorry for you, it shows that you are unable to think for yourself or comprehend reason and logic.

Barack doesn't have the courage to tell Bernie Mac to his face that his performance was inappropriate and the will not stand for that kind of stuff. Instead he jokes around and side-steps it by laughing and saying he needs to "clean his act up next time." to top it all off, he follows up his displeasure with Bernie's performance with "By the way, I'm just messing with you man". Yeah, this is the type of man we need in the White House......someone that throws out daps and enjoys a good hoes and prostitute joke at a family event! Figure it out America.....Barack plays his black card and tries to be cool when he needs to and straightens up and speaks promise when the time calls for it. We can't have a person like this running our country!

What an idiot. I can't possibly fathom what Mac was thinking...

Yeah, this really isn't news, but I think it was a joke at the wrong place at wrong time. After all, it was that – JUST A JOKE. People need to RELAX. Comedians are out there to make you laugh about all different types of topics – some are more controversial than others....but remember they are JUST JOKES!!!!

More of the same from BHO's campaign. It's been old for a long time and getting older. When are you all going to wake up and figure out this sham and joke of a Presidential candidate? Having learned that you are judged by the company you keep, it appears this clown just keeps sinking deeper. With any luck, we won't have to deal with BHO's foolishness after November.

and while he's at it, why doesn't he get freddie mac to clean up its act too?

Bernie Mac, make's insensitive remark about " HOS " and get's
off lightly because he is " Black ", that's ok. But let a " White Man "
say something like that and he get's " EXSCORRIATED " for it. This
is an " OUTRAGE " and a Double standard. Where is " SHARPTON &
JACKSON " no where to be found, it Figure's.................

I personally feel Obama should realize that Bernie Mac, like all other Americans have the right to Freedom of Speech. Bernie Mac has always used offensive language with his acts. Obama does have the right to comment on his opinion about Bernie's jokes, but being in his position where he potentially represents and preserves the rights that the American Constitution guaranatees all of its citizens , he should not have discouraged him from exercising his inalienable rights.

HUSSEIN HUSSEIN---HUSSEIN BARACK JUST PLAYED IT DOWN. HE FORGAVE JACKSON FOR WANTING TO CUT HIS %^&S, FORGAVE REV.WRIGHT FOR THE RACIST COMMENTS, FORGAVE FR. PFLEGER!!! GOD HELP US IF THIS MAN IS PRESIDENT. I AM SICKENED BY THE THOUGHT THAT IT MIGHT HAPPEN AGHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH
Leave God out of it .........Mr Obama is not responsible for Bernie and I'm sure he did not encourage or expect that type of JOKE ,,,,just like your comment -Lisa TEXAS Trail Dog and others ....so much hate
and name calling You guys are no better than Bernie he is a comedian.....What is your excuse for the hatred toward Mr Obama
if don't like him Its ok don't vote for him

The world is made up of somany different people and it is sometimes very hard to seperate their jobs,careers (especially a comic when in front of a audience) another case of misspeak...get over it and move on. I am sure Mr Mac is terribly ashame.

This joke refers to a woman with at least one child who is most likely cheating on her husband with the mailman. Anyone offended by calling a woman who would satisfy her sexual urges risking the well-being of her family a "ho" does not have their priorities straight. I would argue that this behavior defines the term "ho," and although the word is not ideal for this situation, it is appropriate in the context of the joke.

Calling an unfaithful woman a "ho" who would risk putting her children through dealing with their parents' divorce is not offensive. The behavior of the woman in the joke is what should be considered offensive.

what is this nonsense about.....a comedian makes a bad joke about HIS own wife and somehow this is related to Obama's judgement and America will be doomed if Obama is elected. Well I got real news for you Republicans and HilaryClinton whiners, America is already in the trash. Republicans you voted twice for a mentally challenged Dubya who has single handedly destroyed our goodwill. and you HRC whiners want to forget about the other 18 million who voted for OBAMA and suggest that somehow a left wing conspiracy has stolen HER nomination... nit picking a candidate for every little thing is ridiculous and hypocritical....

People are being rediculous. This was a joke, and somehow that makes Obama a person who looks down on women and is unfit to be in the White House COME ON. I think there should be a test that people should take to vote in this country. I am trying to pay for gas, pay my student loans, and try not to get kicked out of my house and instead of talking about substantive issues, we are talking about a joke that Bernie Mac made. WOW, unfortunately most of you who commented on this page are the ones who got us in this mess for the past 8 years. Thanks for that. Lets focus on real issues.

Please boycott the Frog Princess movie. I understand the name has been changed to the Princess and the Frog, but it's still the same. Also, the main character's name was Maddie, but they have since changed it. The company should NOT do a movie with a black princess because they don't know anything about black culture.

Also, they've been doing animation for over 50 years, and now that they see the value in diversity, they're suddenly interested in a black princess, not because they think black is beautiful, but because black is profitable. As an African American woman I'm insulted that they want to use us to raise their profits for their princess toy line.

Just say no, keep your daughters away from that movie.

From the comments posted: So, Bernie Mac's inappropriate joke is the end all reason you wouldn't vote for Obama? Not that McCain has no solutions for the economy, environment, taxes, healthcare, womens' rights, Bush 3rd-term???

(He's a stand up comedian -duh?) I don't condone the joke but I believe the issues are the reasons I support Obama. Please! In spite of your differences with Obama versus McCain ... hands down, Obama and his policy proposals are of greater importance and relevancy than the Republicans and waaay – over McCain!

Here is what is funny, comedians are allowed to say what ever we want. We are paid to be edgy and push the envelope. We don't have to apologize. Politicians...not so lucky.

Yeah lighten up Bernie, Obama is running his campaign on political correctness!

Typical. One Obama blogger also tells another anti-Obama blogger to "go get an abortion". Very nice.

Not that a I condone what BM had said but, how does BHO camp get off telling someone else what he or she cannot say? I thought he was for freedom of speach? Also I think BHO is up too how many, that not approppiate? Just wondering. Seems BHO had to be the far left that he is during the primary and now low and behold , center here I come............................................................

I don't think Senator Obama invited Bernie Mac to introduce him. That decision was made by someone else. Get off of Obama's back about this.

Another friend goes under the bus next to his racist grandma and reverend of 20 years... and Hillary lost to this guy???

So, will Barack throw Bernie under the bus now?

As he did

a) Jeremiah Wright
b) Public financing
c) 2nd amendment opposition
d) FISA Legislation

Oh, sorry ... Barack stands for Hope and Change.

So he can say, do anything, at anytime.

Sorry – do whatever Barack

Whatever, probably a part of BHO's conditioning of people's mind by the help of the bias press and media hype. McCain 08, Hillary 2012!

Wow! its almost like giving anti Obama people food for their hunger... The problem here is that He stood by his principles... If you have to say something bad about Sen Obama's actions, at least try to make some sense in showing us his faults. Lets really know why you don't want to vote for him not just spitting out useless excuses each time something comes up.

I would never go see any of Bernie Mac's movies.

I do not fault Obama for the indiscretions of any so-called actor.

Sounds like more sell-out. No wonder people consider him elitist.

It's too bad that BO didn't have a teleprompter w/speechwriter at the event. For an elitist snob, he certainly can't think on his feet. No worder he won't attend town-hall meetings with John McCain!

Well I guess it is ok for Bernie Mac but not Don Imus. Obama wanted Omus fired, which I'm glad he was fired. I'm just pointing this out. Are we going to have to deal with this for 4 years in the White House if he is elected President. I don't like his friends.

Never did care for Bernie's sense of humour-but what's Barack to do in this situation? If he chastized him in public people would call him elitist or predudice agaist African Americans. I think comedians should stay off the canidates stage because many are used to using poitical incorrectness for a living. But ,come on, it's not as bad as McSame (himself) joking about bombing Iran to the Barbara Ann tune or saying that maybe cigarette imports to Iran are good because they might "kill them". Now if Obama did it himself , it would be different. Bernie owes women, his family, and Obama an apology.

Hope there is still some room left under the bus.

Don't you all miss the Obama seal?

This is a good way to get the female vote!! Barrack for prez!!! By the way I'm just joking with ya man!

Obama's campaign was trying to give a "brother" a play. And what do they do? Causes a storm. First, Rev. Wright, then Jessie Jackon, now Bernie Mac. These brothers should know better. All of them are stage hogs. No more brothers if they are going to be this controversal.

Bernie did nothing wrong. Nothing. They should not have invited him if they did not know what type of comedian he was. Those are the type of jokes he's always told.

That's lack of planning and judgment on Obama's campagin people and Obama himself, not Bernie. If I were Bernie I would expect an apology from Obama, not the other way around.

It doesn't take long for the true colors to come out. Just takes a little freedom of speech.

Way to Go Obama this clearly was not the time nor the place for that type of joke and Bernie Mac should have used his common sense. You don't have to be filty to be funny.

Barack is making a full time job out of putting his friends in their place. Reverend Wright, Father Flegler, Bernie Mac, Tony Rezko... If Barack is so disapproving of these people it makes you wonder why he was friends with them in the first place. He's tight with these people and then he tries to get political points by disapproving of them. sheesh...What a phoney.

If you all like Bush Policy you will vote for McCain.

If you like Bill Clinton police you will vote OBAMA.

No take for people who male under 250,000

Bill clinton police you had more money in your pocket.

Bush policy you don't.

Even if you don't like OBAMA vote for the policy.

or we all going do go threw this another 4 years.

Please read OBAMA police on his web site don't listen to talk radio.

Thanks for reading.

I understand what you mean Hussein Hussein. I ask for professional help and need medication just the thought of Obama or Mccain becoming the President after George W. Bush. I thought the American people would have learned their lesson after Bush, but I guess not.

Why does CNN rag on Obama? Because Wolfie wanted to be Hillary's press secretary. And what is up with a 3 hour Clinton Show? Couldn't find anything for that inept dope Jessica Yellin to do all evening?

shame on you politicalticker ( alexander) you only see dirts on the Obamas. any litle thing that happens in the obama's camp is news for you. I don't see such reaction toward your protege Mcsame . ( mcbush can flip-flop on his response regarding which defense team he related to when tortured..... it is Ok........
shame shame shame on you you you yo yo yo yoyoyo yo yoyoooooo

The fact that an agent of "change" is joking around with Bernie after he has used the word "ho" is disgusting. How degrading to women. Now it is obvious that Barack is just as sexist as all of the other politicians who couldn't stand the thought of a female as president. What a joke! Shame on you, Barack Obama. A little too "chill" to be president of the United States.

I've never heard of Bernie Mac and from this story, I wouldn't pay anything to anyone to listen to him. What a sexist, low life.

Hellooooo!!!!! Wake up and see this man for what he is (or isn't!). Our country is in enough trouble and I shutter to think what is in store if this man gets elected. Our children's future is at stake and we cannot sit around pointing fingers and keep talking about "race" and "untity." This inexperienced man is all talk and no action. I pray that the American people will see be able to see this and will not vote him into office. If you think our economy and our country is bad now – wait and see – it will be a disaster with him in office. And, when the next attack happens on our soil – don't sit and scratch your head and wonder why.

That comment is insulting to all women not just the "..family...".
Comments like Bernie's is what as fueled the degredation of (black)woman. We get loads of it through hip-hop.
Finally, I thought that black men would start to take the concept of treating black women with respect seriously. Obviously, that is not happening any time soon.
Thinking about the young girls that are coming up and define thier identity on what they hear and see. Bernie, what do you want them to define themselves as?
Take responsibility and watch what come out of your mouth.

Wake up America what someone else does has nothing to do with any candidate unless they are part of that candidates advisory committee or an anticipated appointee to a cabinet post.

CNN will likely play this one for 2 or 3 weeks and Lou Dobbs will want Obama jailed but life goes and how people vote in November will determine in what direction their lives go on. A comedian will not be a determining fact in any of this so lighten up or should I say grow up.

That's whats wrong with this world. No one can take a freaking joke!

Senstor Obama? I don't understand... clearly they're not talking about Senator Obama... what is a Senstor anyway? Censor? Censor Obama? How about Censortor Obama?

Why is this news? Is he an OBAMA surrogate? He made a joke which is not well received get over it period. I have seen worse with Mike huckabe
Every bulls****t is news. God help this journalists.
I guess they have microphones on OBAMA back. If he farts it will me in political ticker.

Let's see one joke that's it! I heard this is an old joke and one person complained openly only. Where's the news. The media cover distractions better than an policy issue.

CNN= "Children News Networks" like a kid can't stay focus on main issues.

Silly season media

HRC ALL THE WAY is just a racist.

Well Bernie – thats the biggest mistake you have made- I am done with watching reruns of your show. Obama is right- clean up your act that comments on gender/social issues. Well, thats what you get when you go to a Obama rally.

GO MCCAIN!!!!

Non-story

Obama said"THATS NOT THE BERNIE MAC I KNOW'

Another one under the bus.
Thank you DNC for making Obama the nominee. It is hurting the nation more than bringing it together when the economy is down, jobs lost, the government bailing out the big business, etc and you do this to the people by electing someone that really don't support his people. All he want is to win and it is sad!!
We need someone who really care about the people!!
Hillary !!

Bernie Mac...what a disgrace! I've never liked this stupid guy.
He owes the guests of this campaign event a public apology.

Obama...you refer to him as a "great friend"? I've had strong support for you but you are now starting to make me real nervous.

Jackson did not mean his apology, he is trying to unite his people, and I tell you he had no choice but to apologize. Jesse be honest you hate this idiot (Obama) he is an insult to you and your culture. Especially that woman of his.

Barack can't be responsible for every joke someone says but he will have to be more on guard than he has been in making sure the people who speak at his events recognize how their remarks or jokes might reflect on him.

In the meantime, where is the outrage that John McCain called Social Security a disgrace? Soc. Sec. has been the greatest poverty fighting program ever! What a fool!

While the media tries to make this an even fight, the truth is that McCain is a lousy candidate. His top economic advisor says that Americans are whiners. McCain gave a delusional account of his trip to Iraq during the primaries. He has no plan for dealing with global warming and he's determined to appoint Supreme Court Justices who will overturn our right to privacy!

Get with it America. McCain is a loser with a capital L!

Funny...CNN has nothing about Newsweek's new poll showing McCain very close to Obama.

Bernie, was just making fun of the people paying that much to eat with Obama.

This is another evidence of the great character of OBAMA.

He will not allow anybody to mess up with his values.

Bad people should clean up their actions.

This is an example of POSITIVE CHANGE.

OBAMA for CHANGE!

Yes We Can!!!

GO Obama GO!!! '08 – '12

OH WOW, THAT HURTS, LIKE HE TALKS LIKE A SALESMAN, AND GOES TO THE TOWER EVERYTIME HE SPEAKS. NOT IMPRESSIVE AT ALL. IN FACT REALLY REVOLTED. OBAMA, YOUR A LOSER, AND I PRAY THAT YOU ARE STOPPED!!

And why is Sen. Obama responsible for this again?

Get over it HRC All The Way. Are you delusional? Hilary is not going to be President of the United States – ever.

WHEN does he actually CHANGE?
1. After polls show public dislikes Rev. Wright, Obama changes his mind and disowns him.
2. After polls show public dislikes affiliation with his church, Obama changes his mind and leaves church.
3.After polls show public is uneasy of Obama not wearing lapel pin, Obama changes his mind and wears it almost always now.
4.The morning after the hijab incidents, Obama quickly takes a photo with women wearing the hijab.
5. After polls show public is uneasy of his kids in the mix, Obama changes his mind to allow them interviews.
6.After pledging to not take private campaign financing, he changes his position for more money.
7.After the surge (which he denounced) successfully gave Iraq breathing room to politically improve, Obama is refining his policies.
8.After Obama's advisers tell him the joke was inappropriate, he rebukes.
9. To be continued...

"...live in a nation where they will not be judged by the color of their skin, but by the content of their character."

I have lived through more elections than the majority of you bloggers. I have nevr seen so many apologies and stupid remarks make the news as this one!
Why is that? Because when news was actually NEWS They did not think this side line crap was worthy of being printed. It went unoticed!
AS IT SHOULD BE!

You usually get what you PAY for and when you ask a stand up comic to open your SHOW! Your going to get his regular routine. Quite naive to even ask this man on the stage. He's asked then gets his rear chewed on for doing what he does best. I'd tell BO to kiss where the son dont shine and exit his stage for good Bernie.

Bernie dont back down man! Your a funny guy. You can call me a Ho anytime! People in this world need to lighten up and laugh!

You have a spelling error in this story. You said "Senstor Obama."

What a shame. The ultra liberal left wing of the Democtratice party is imposing this candidate on us and we should judge this candidate by the people he hangs out with, Rezko, Wright, Ayes, Bernie, Randy Rhodes (called Hillary F......W....), all nice people, one is a criminal two have dirty dirrty, one talks anti America, and the other was part of a gang blowing up federal buildings. If he is the "chosen one" ,God please help us!

"I'm just messin' wit you man."

Yes, that is who we should have in the white house.

Yes, Bernie needs to clean it up and Obama was "right on" for telling him so. What's wrong with people anymore?

Hussein, Hussein, what the hell is YOUR problem anyway? Are you so deep black that you can't tell the difference between right and wrong? We need people like Obama and Cosby to get the rest of you idgits back on track!

Why do the remarks of anyone not related in any way with either candidate make news for CNN?
If you TV people would understand you have a responsable place in our society and not just a bunch of trouble raising comments to excite the lowest mentality out here like National inquirer does,, maybe this election might reach a dignified standard!
I know, I am shouting into the wind.When are you ever going to care about fairness and integrity?Never as long as this kind of silly stuff raises your raitings!

The fact that this is even an issue shows how sad this process is. This incident has nothing to do with Obama's ability to be president. Mac is a comedian who should stay out of politics. All entertainers should stay out. An election should not be entertainment. It has become so because the media has made it a horse race. Look at issues. Look at voting records. Demand to see plans for the future. How will they solve social security? How will you get us off oil? How will we get out of the fiscal mess this country is in? How will you defend to Constitution? That is what we need to ask these candidates. What Bernie Mac said has nothing to do with any of this.

Bernie is an idiot. Mr. Obama has done such a great job distancing himself from foolishness, and this clown comes along and spookes everyone. I am a Republican.... Bernie, Think Bro!!!

Bernie Mac for VP! Just messing with you, man. Let's line them up: Rev. wright, Farakhan, Rezko, Bernie Mac, Ayers...There you have the cabinet for BHO. I can't wait for the RNC machine to get rolling and make mincemeat of Barack. He is making the entire nation sick.

I'd just like to point out that I don't read anything typed in all caps.

I will not sit by and watch America elect this man so we can have 4 years of this "oh I'm just kidding man."

Hillary was the best candidate for the Democratic Party to field against the Republicans in November. If Obama doesn't pick Hillary I am going to have to vote for McCain.

HUSSEIN HUSSEIN, and all the other naysayers need to learn AGAIN...Barack Obama didn't say the joke, SO DON'T BLAME HIM!!!

Bernie is "B" level at best and this is not news that a low level comedian said something outrageous. People should boycott Bernie NOT Barack. But apparently it's not the way CNN likes to spin things. Now all the dumb people have again been angered and will swear not to vote for Obama...which is only dumber. Wake up! You're being played. This is IN the news...but it's NOT news.

And I betcha CNN doesn't have the guts to post this.

Who cares what Bernie Mac has to say ?! He is not the one running for office, Jesse Jac is just mad because Obama is achomplishing something that he could not. Bernie is responsible for what comes out of his mouth, not Barack. I would hold Barack responsible if it were his comment, but it's not. This is silly. I am more interested in the economy and the environment than some silly comedians distastfull act?! to say that this is something that wil persist for the next four years is ludacris. What about the last 8 years of bush? How about what McCain is offering? I would say out of the two canidates we are better off with Barack.

"One nation Under God Indivisiable...."

We need more people in this country like Obama willing to speak up for what is right!

You mean Obama didn't make one of his trademarks smarty speeches about Bernie or Jessie?

First of all the joke wasn't reported properly by CNN. I've heard that jokes from a lot of comedians( black, white, chineese, even women). It's amazing to see that so many idiots on this forum finds the way to relate it to racism or sexism or whatever.

HELLO...BERNIE MAC IS A COMEDIAN!!!!!I just read that line and I thought it was very funny. It was probably even funnier in person. I thought comedians were allowed to push the limits. Do comedians have to practice political correctness now? Since when did we start taking comediens 'seriously? Anybody who has ever seen a Bernie Mac show/movie knows exactly what they're going to get in his act. If it was going to be like that then the Obama camp should have gotten a PG rated comedian like Sinbad or Carrot top. i'M SO TIRED OF THE FAKE OUTRAGE. Bernie was trying to make people laugh. I guess some people just can't take a joke.

Bernie Mac is a comedian........Bernie Mac is not Bob Hope...Maybe Eddie Murphy would say Obama is talking down to comedians and should have his gonads rendered so to speak.....

Is there any reality in sight for Obama. Where's the beef?????

Bunch of BS!!! get over it OBAMA lets leave the drama for your MAMA.... carry on " I was just messing with you man..."

Mccain 08'

POST THIS I AM NOT A RACIST.AGHHHHHHHHHHHHHH

LISTEN RACIST, YOU ARE A RACIST,.

ALL THOSE READING YOUR COWARDLY BLOG

KNOW YOU ARE A RACIST. PERIOD, END OF STORY.

AND SHORT OF A MIRACLE FROM JESUS CHRIST HIMSELF,

YOU WILL ALWAYS BE A RACIST. THEN YOU WILL PROBABLY

BLESS US WITH SOME RACIST CHILDREN.

"Senator Obama told Bernie Mac that he doesn't condone these statements and believes what was said was inappropriate."

Well not really. What he said was "clean up his act," and then he laughed in front of a room full of people and reporters and said "I'm just messing with you man." Well if Mr. Obama believed it was inappropriate he would've said so.

Will the Kool Aid drinkers ever be critical of their messiah? Can you imagine if John McCain had a comedian open up for him and call women "hos?"

No wonder his biggest supporters want to cut his n*ts out.

Politics aside, this is sad:

After his well given speech calling for black American men to take responsibility for their children and be there for them, he brushes this joke off with a smile and, "Hey Bernie. This is a family affair... Just messing with you by the way." Obama had a great chance to say, "This is what people have joked about. This is what black America has come to accept. And we won't accept it any longer."

I won't pretend that I'm voting for Obama. I think the issues are too important this year and McCain has the experience and the voting record to get us through this tough time. But I would have respected Obama much more as a politician AND as a man for backing up his honest and truthful call to fathers and black America.

I guess some people would rather see people like Scooter Libby forgiven...

to HUSSEIN HUSSEIN
WLLe you will just have to be sickened by the fact the next President will be President Obama. If you had some faith or a tad bit of belief in God then you would understand that Forgiveness is of God, and we need a man who knows that God is working behind the senses.

That wasn't inappropriate, it was a joke that just wasn't funny.

Give me a break, Bernie act funny and that is what got recognized. For you bush of whinner to ask Obama to apologise or be responsible about his joke is a disgrace. How many rebukes will Obama rebukes, it might not appropriate at the occasion and I don't think Obama should be held responsible.

I hate people who want by all means blame this man.
Pitty !! to be a politician is a problem.
Whatever you do will be read and twisted.

To Hussein Hussein,

I think you miss the point and I have to say that you DO appear racist when you deliberately switch Senator Obama's name and your tag name says it all. His name is Barack Hussein Obama. Learn it because he will be your new president come Nov. What exacty is wrong with forgiving someone? And why does that sicken you?

First Jesse, now Bernie? What the heck is going on lately?

YOU BOTH SHOULD KNOW BETTER!

He has enough BS to deal with out there!!

Yes Bernie you were out of line but this is a non issue when compared to McBush's lack of memory, flip-flopping, oh and of course his economic adviser calling Americans whiners!

People wake up, Obama didn't even know he was going to be there. What he said was inappropriate for the setting he was in and should have been rebuked. That doesn't mean he's talking down on blacks or that he thinks lowly of women.

Let's get back to the policies.

Obama '08'

Bernie Mack must've been on something and thought he was at the Apollo warming up the crowd for Lil' Wayne.

Its sad that our political system comes down to finding things to attack a presidential candidate that another individual says in their presence. Proper news reporting should consist of what the candidate will bring to the office. Will it be Obama or McCain that will find the way to turn around the economy and end the Iraq conflict. Look at the what the candidates offer not what an acquaintance said....

What do you expect.... Obama attended a church for 20 years that wasn't much better.... This is who Obama is - no number of 'handlers' can change the fact that Obama is a wolf in 'sheep's clothing'!

Bernie Mac is an idiot for talking trash at a political rally. Barack Obama is an idiot for thinking using Bernie Mac at a political rally was a credible idea. And I don't even get the "joke"!

The Democrats are such amateurs. They get so off track and off message so often, one has to wonder if there are actual brain cells up in the grey matter.

I am one of those Demos looking to switch to Independent because I just can't take it anymore. Not that I'd ever vote for a Republican, BUT...

What was Bernie thinking, and how could the Obama campaign put this man on the stage not knowing what would come out of his mouth? Haven't they learned their lesson yet?

Imagine if Obama didn't say anything.. just let it go..what would the headline be? "Women called Hos at Obama event" It would be spent out of control.

This new media/political standard of making politicians responsible for other peoples words has to stop.

I am a huge fan of the Mac Man, however there is a time and place for everything. This was not the place. Bernie Mac should understand this. I hope Bernie Mac doesn't take it personally. Those kinds of jokes should be reserved for a certain type of venue (clubs, concerts, parties), not a political fundraiser. I also hope Obama doesn't have to distance himself from his comedy friend. Let's not forget Michael Richards. Jerry Seinfield got on tv the next day and defended him.

Barack only said "Just messing with you man" only because he was trying to take off the sting of publically humiliating his friend by scolding him on national tv. But Bernie knows that Barack was quite serious about it.

I'm a white 55 year old male and I will almost certainly vote for Obama. I must say, many of the comments here sound like they are from a bunch of uptight trailer park white racists who can't stand the thought of a black man becoming president. Better get used to the idea, because it's gonna happen, and the country will be better for it.

CE you need to give it up. She did not win she was not the better person it is over move forward or get off the boat, it is Dem’s like you that give hope to the GOP. I laugh at Dem’s like you because you are so sad.. As a Republican I’m voting for Obama as and independent I would not want to be known as a weak Dem.

HRC = Epic Failure. Game over and your out of coins PUMA and the rest of the closet repubs.

Shhhh.. we don't need you nor do we care about your vote. We want you to vote for McSame and we don't want you to have any part of this great piece of American History. This is for us, for those who want change, are willing to do what it takes to make it happen and you can't crash our party if you tried. This is a movement made by the people and for the people!

Obama 2008 – Change We CAN believe in!!

CE you need to give it up. She did not win she was not the better person it is over move forward or get off the boat, it is Dem’s like you that give hope to the GOP. I laugh at Dem’s like you because you are so sad.. As a Republican I’m voting for Obama as and independent I would not want to be known as a weak Dem.

As witnessed here by both Obama's supporters and detractors, some folks just don't know how to express themselves responsibly, respectfully, and intelligently. Unfortunately McCain himself falls into this catagory too, with a list of personal, repulsive remarks too numerous and worthless to mention, along with religious leaders (Hagee and Parsley) Republicans (Gramm, Huckabee, Bush and Cheney), lobbyists (Black) and friends (Rove) running his campaign amok. What's the difference? Come January 20, 2009 we'll all know.

Bernie should know better.This is a presidential campaign and not a comedy show.
I don't hear anybody talking about McCain calling a female reporter a JERK.
McCain's economy GURU also called us a NATION OF WHINERS.

I'm not currently planning on voting for Obama (and not because of his race, for gosh sake), but I think his response is the best one he could have done. I mean, he probably didn't expect Bernie to say what he said, and Bernie probably wishes he hadn't (I've been in front of large crowds and sometimes you just say things that later you wish you hadn't), but when it was said, he needed to say something about it and he did. Had he NOT said anything, lots of you would have been all over him for that, and frankly being any more direct would be overkill in my opinion. So think about it...what would YOU have done?? "Those among with you no sin..."

And this blog is about Obama, not McCain, so eat it McCain haters...find someplace to else to spit your bile...

For crying out loud. What has happened to America's sense of humor?
Take that stick out of your butt already.

Some of you people need therapy. Your hate for Obama is beyond anything I ever seen for a Presidential candidate. It is like no matter what goes on around Obama or who does it, it is always Obama's fault.

Barack, do your thing. I can't wait for November.

Obama08

And any woman who votes for obama is out of there mind
THINK ladys is he what you want for your daughters

who cares about all this bull shyt...u ppl r retarded...who cares what frickin bernie mac has to say...care about the onzone layer,taxes,gas prices,healthcare...etc...whether black or white focus on who will better serve our country....and also being black and white i will say that i feel alot more comfortable on with my black family because the white part is so stuck up and dry....it was a joke....yes theres a time and place for everything...but should this really be on cnn...no...leave the nonsense behind cnn and focus on the real issues...

What we need is more nut case republicans going, Oh now look at this... blah blah blah...

Ya over look ROVE but go off on this.

I don't see a big deal. It's a joke!
lighten up y'all.

OBAMA ALL THE WAY!!!

Not the place for that joke, but it does point out the much larger problem.

If Obama ever gets to the White House, the politically correct psychos will be banning language all over the place. The terminally offended are the last people that need to be in power in this country.

Fortunately, Obama will never get to the White House, except as a guest.

I'm not entirely sure that Obama is responsible for what his acquaintances say. If your friend tells an off color joke or makes some other remark that is not well received, are you obligated to apologize? If the answer is yes, then I have a follow up question: Are you serious?

It was already planned out and set in motion, Obama needs to show the white folks that he is different then the "other" black people they are used to seeing, you know the rap stars, preachers and black activists that hate white America.
So first came the preacher, then came Rev. Jackson and now Bernie mac, all allowing Obama to show how different he is from them because he needs the white vote, I mean really, nobody asked Bernie what he was going to say? Rev Jackson didnt think the mic was hot ??? Pleeeease!

So anyone who says something stupid it's Obama Fault? GET REAL PEOPLE and lets get back to the issues..

Typical slanted coverage by CNN and the so-called Liberal (read: CONSERVATIVE pandering) media.

where is the McCain coverage of him wanting to kill Iranians with cigarettes? Where is the coverage of Phil Gramm calling us a nation of whiners?

Silently and subtlety swept under the rug while Obama is put underneath a microscope. That's where.

Great job CNN. Your attempts to shift voter opinions have worked before. Keep up the great work!

And you wonder why this guy is only up by only 2-4 points in the polls. Got news for you folks...people judge you by the company you keep.

What's up with the typo near the end of this story? "Senstor Obama"?
Probably should be corrected.

Uhm don't forget you have to make your children know spanish now also.

change "breads" to "breeds" please.

KE...I really don't get your comment.

This site is a JOKE

That joke is a Buddy Hackett joke! I love the joke, but a time and place.... oh that and recognition of the original comedian

ZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZ...........................

I'm tired of the whole thing. Seems we've been dealing with this pre-election crap forever. It just breads this kind of stuff.
We really need to shorten the whole process!!!!!

Muslims & Immigrants like to have obama as president for middle east peace

Bernie – Stay out of it – You are so not funny!

Oh come on people, it was a joke, grow up.

"Moderator's" SUCK!

Typical black comedian. They all use foul language and make racist jokes. Well not all, but most of them. Bill Cosby does not have to resort to a bankrupt vocabulary to be funny. Didn't Obama know what type of comedian Bernie Mac is? Oh wait ,he doesn't know a lot about his closest friends.

You know what? I don't understand the joke!! What does the punchline mean? What is the intended humor of the joke? Why are people so upset with the joke?

Some people are trying to find any little reason not to vote for Obama. I feel the way our economy is going we have to make a sharp U turn, and get our economy back on track. Under this current administration, I have to go to bed hungry every night so my kids can eat.

I just ask that people vote for the person they feel will benefit our country the most!!!

"Obama rebukes Bernie Mack" is the headline over Bernie Mack insults women with a predominantly female audience at an Obama fundraiser. I see CNN is still in the tank for Obama. Your stations credibility is now equivalent to the Bush station FOX.

Well, I guess I won't cast my presidential vote for Bernie Mac. Or for Santa Claus, who's always saying "ho, ho, ho."

Obama's friends and supporters are doing the worst job in the history of the world, in getting him into the White house. Each week it's something new.

It's rather unfortunate that Bernie Mac wasn't smart enough to clean up his act. I think we need to ban freedom of speech in an effort to create a better society, where our children can get a better upbringing. I can't imagine why Bernie Mac will be so stupid as to say something like that. He should be treated the same way Don Imus was treated.

Is THIS the type of Presidency "WE" want in the White House? A gathering place for all the wayward Pic-a-nenies.....No Thanks!
McCain, Don't let "US" down!!!!!!!!!!!!!

HUSSEIN HUSSEIN wrote July 12th, 2008 4:01 pm ET

How many times you wrote HUSSEIN and BLACK in your comments ? You sounds like Rush, Sean Hannity, Ann coulter, Glen Beck, and the Bigot O'Reily = GOP attack machine = the party of filthy rich = the party of religious fanatics = NRA the new KKK

Did you get my point ? or are you still dreaming of your Vietnam vet (McCain), who voted against the GI bill, who voted against VA hospitals getting funding to win in November.

And we want this Obama guy as our President?!!! I would not trust him with selling my car let alone be the Commander in Chief and make decisions for our country!!! What is quite troubling is how the American People have fallen for this empty headed guy! This goes down to the very core of our problems, and the shallowness of our youth!!! We need to educate them better and we need to give them the morals that our previous generations had tried to give us! Get rid of this man and lets elect someone that can handle the job and not "mess with you man"!!!!!!

Folks, if you're sick to your stomach about the next 4 years, you must be terminal after the last 8. Bush brought very well behaved people to Washington - Cheney, Rumsfeld, Bremer (the guy who cut the Iraqi troops loose), the FEMA guy who let people rot, and all of the deeply religious guys with the ironed hair who did nasty things with hookers.

Bernie Mac - bad taste. Bush and company - war criminals.

I just don't get it! Is he too immature? What about all the folks around him, did they think it was ok, Is this were the young folks are today.
Everything does not go!! That's scary just when I was trying to look at it different, he's not ready, poor decisions. I like Obama as a person
but this is not a game, we are in big trouble , possible war i need someone up there that is serious? Don't you?

Sure it was inappropriate, especially when introducing a black man who's trying to change the stereotypes of young black men as thugs.

BUT...I'm more disappointed that Bernie didn't use some more original material. That's a REALLY old joke and readily available all over the internet.

The writer also left out the line about, "now go ask your sister if she'd sleep with the principal for $50,000". Makes the punchline make more sense.

Obama knows he has lost the battle already. So having people like big Mac make comments in the way he did is just another way of expressing their thoughts about the truth. Obama represents that generation and group. Rebuking him is not the way to do it because Mac right. Cash strapped and reaching out to Mac was like asking him to donate for two big Mac for the price of one(Hillary/Obama) I don't see anything wrong with that. Mac was representing his own culture and Obama had said he finds their hip hop lyrics artful. Why ditch him now?

Geesh. Bernie Mac must have hit his head. What a idiot for saying this.

Bernie............Do what you do best and collect the paycheck for the appearance. This doesn't hurt your rep one bit. And Barack do what you do best which is to cause yourself political fits by throwing another under the bus. I agree that under the bus may be the best seat in the house for this crazy political season. It's a better dance than the macarena "hit me, toss me under the bus". I' a dem for Obama but he and his campaign have got to just let these things go and not comment on nonsense. He's only validating a minor argument. Do it enough times and people start scratching there heads and start watching sports instead of paying attention to the election.

I can see it now.....Bernie Mac, Chris Rock, and Woopie Goldberg entertaining at the Inaguration, state functions, etc. 'I'm just messing with you"!!!!!!!!!!! Please, that from the Prestident of the United States???

I never found Bernie Mac funny I think his diction is rude his jokes are rude how could anybody let Bernie Mac open anything for them as for an appearing dignatary or for anybody appearring anywhare for that matter. I never watched his show or any of his stand up acts He's corney as hell.

Bernie, Bernie, Bernie. Why would you say that?

I am a Democrat and it hurts that I don't have a candidate to vote for in this upcoming election.

Obama is a joke.

people people ... no wonder this country is going down the toilet. I bet the Chinese aren't hung up on this kind of stupidity.

Why are black people bringing black people down. Bernie Mac should have definitely know better. First Jesse and now this?!??? What in God's name are these people thinking.

BOO THIS MAN!!!!

BOOOOOOO!

This is one reason I am no longer supporting Obama, Jackson was right who does he think he is talking down to everyone else as if he's better?? I guess the spoiler Nader has my vote...

You just give away whatever shred of credibility you were born with.

Okay, here's the thing–both candidates will spend the rest of the election season apologizing for / distancing from / renouncing / whatever-ing others as long as the opposing campaign continues to throw its hands in the air in feigned horror. "What?!?! He ties his shoelaces LEFT over RIGHT?!?! Well, that just proves he's a communist!! I knew it all along!!"

Yes, Obama's people should have either scrubbed Mac's script or skipped him altogether, but his 'offense' is no worse than the many vile videos of Rev. Hagee (which his people have now successfully bullied YouTube into removing), whose endorsement Sen. McBush actually sought.

As long as the CONS keep calling attention to Sen. Obama's middle name, stretching to focus on weak connections with '60s radicals (a far cry from Kenny-Boy Lay, but Duhbya's squeaky-clean?!) or boo-hooing about flag pins (ferchrissakes), they are diverting attention from the outright lies (at best) and inadequacies of their pathetic candidate.

Call them on it. Don't let them get away with it. Stick to the issues and leave the ad hominem attacks to junior high school, where they belong.

Can't anyone else see that Obama is an elitest and so are his supporters? Where is the woman who would represent all of America?

If you are going to condem Obama for what people connected to him say then John insane mccain should be put in jail. to those so called

HRC supporters quit crying , and get a life .

IF i was barack HRC wouldn't get any help from me to pay off her debt the race was over but she stayed in thinking super delegates were going to back her, forgetting Barack had a lead in delagates, super delagates andpopular votes, you lost fair &square get over it.

hey! hrc, why you blaming obama for,get a life,we do not need your cheap vote anyway,you sound like a republican.

I don't know what to think of either Bernie Mac or Obama. They both used poor judgment in this situation . . . Obama for selecting Bernie Mac and Bernie Mac for his choice in humor at this type of political event. Barack Obama needs to start conducting himself in a presidential manner if he indeed intends to be our next president.

Puma Democrates are great.... I've never seen such ignorant voters in my life... these brain dead puma dems are going to deliver Iran on a platter to us neocons... p.s. Jesus is great, high powered rifels are nice and a womans equality means nothing to us... LMAO

LMAO @ The Obama haters. Who the hell cares. All of you imbeciles/racists were not going to voe for Obama BEFORE this or before any other of the controversies.

Me and everyone in my neighborhood is voting for Obama in November.

Bye Bye NeoCons.

Clinton Fringer--I'm not THAT old, but I am white. Are you saying that blacks enjoy that kind of trash, but whites don't?

Texas Trail Dog
You said you didn't condone Rev. Wright's sermons either, but you set and listened to them for 20-years. How could you turn your back on your Uncle.
How soon do you intend to be in office before you pardon all your bros in the pen on false charges?IDOIT!!!!

Choosing Bernie Mac was a mistake and someone needs extensive training. They asked for Bernie Mac and that is what they got, end of story. No hidden meaning, No Obama exposure.
This decision pales compared to the people Bush had and has around him and the decision they made. And, McCain with Hagee, Parsley and now Graham to name a few.

Why is that now all these morons are Crying for OBAMA, it looks now that not only Hispanic (Latinos) but African American don't trust this BOZO Obama!!!! to include a BIG majority of the American People!!! He is not for change, but a politician from Chicago. Tell me what has OBAMA done for the Senate guess what NOTHING, NADA!!!!!!!! WOW he even hates the men and women that serve this great nation of ours USA. Again what has OBAMA done for the Latinos Community!!! NOTHING, NADA Latinos open your eyes

Latinos for McCain, and people don't hate!! because Latinos happens to like John McCain!!!

Hispanic for McCain

HUSSEIN BARACK JUST PLAYED IT DOWN. HE FORGAVE JACKSON FOR WANTING TO CUT HIS %^&S, FORGAVE REV.WRIGHT FOR THE RACIST COMMENTS, FORGAVE FR. PFLEGER!!! GOD HELP US IF THIS MAN IS PRESIDENT. I AM SICKENED BY THE THOUGHT THAT IT MIGHT HAPPEN AGHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH.....LEAVE GOD OUT OF IT ,,,,,,JERK!!!!!

This has been at the top of the ticker ALL DAY! Get bent!
Oh, and I love how you moderation clowns put EVERY DARN PUMA post up there, but censor everything else...

By the way, I don't get the joke...probably a good thing.

Some of Obama's biggest distractors have been people of color. Why can't we just keep our mouth shut and let the man win the election. A famous intellect once said, "Nobody knows how stupid you are until you open your mouth." On the other hand Obama's advisors will need to carefully screen and dictate what is said when someone is speaking on his behalf. Why get a comedian to announce your presence? Why not a sucessfull black lawyer, doctor, engineer, professor? SOMEONE WHO REPRESENTS WHAT YOUR PLATFORM IS ALL ABOUT. Leave the Ministers and comedians alone please. Now let's get back to the business of getting Barack Obama elected to the highest office in the land.

It is not surprising that all these Macks are his friends. Obama is shining with the help of media and young people. Moreover all failed demacrats joined his wagon. I knew Obama's con artistic ability and I never fooled by his gimics. That's why I was a loyal supporter of HILLARY. Now I vote McCaine, atleast for his honesty and patriotism.

TO Lisa
This is very unprofessional!!! These are the type of friends Obama will hang out with in the White House. Next thing you know Obama will give a speech how he doesn't condone this behavior then throw Bernie Mack under the bus. Don't worry, Bernie Mack has plenty of people to hang out with under there. The Grandmother, The Kids, Jesse Jackson, The Rev Wright, Bill and Hillary. Sounds like it's getting fun under there, soon I'll want Obama to throw me under there, only because Bill & Hill are there.LISA GROW UP!!!!!

What was Bernie thinking? His family t.v. show is squeaky clean- why on earth would he think that speaking before Obama at a high-dollar fundraiser was "Eddie Murphy" time?

Funny that he came down so hard on an off-color joke, yet took year and tons of press to condemn Jeremiah Wright.

I don't blame Bernie Mac at all. We all know him and this is exactly what I would expect from him at an event. However, all blame should be placed on those who were in charge of the Obama event. It was their responsibility to carefully monitor everything beforehand. Again, carelessness is at fault with those in charge of the Obama campaign. This is not healthy for any of us.

Barak Obama asking that clown to clean up his act is a joke. That is the way they all talk, it's their everyday language

dey has cibl writes to talks lik dat. Mobe on.

I don't like Obama, and won't vote for him unless Hillay is the VP, but I love Bernie Mac. I am an American of African slave descant who is also a woman. Bernie has never called all women hoes. Never. In his comedy, he is usually jokingly and lovingly refers to female family members in such terms. Usually, people don't really think that his family has a bunch of "hoes" in it. Maybe it wasn't appropriate for this event. I would think though, that anyone who has seen his comedy would know that he usually uses profanity and is often "politically incorrect". I someones feel that some people go a little overboard with the whole PI. I understand it sometimes though, because some people don't have good boundaries.

These people who are getting overly up tight over HARMLESS JOKES need to go out a bit more; or just watch Youtube.

Comedians are equal opportunity offenders; no gender (male or female) is immune to JOKES.

Stop trying to make everything political. Obama is not responsible for Bernie Mac's poor taste. Bernie Mac is. Bernie Mac used poor judgment. There is a time and place for his type of jokes. That was the wrong place and the wrong time.

Republicans by nature are more conservative and show up at the polls.

If you do not want 4 years of Obama nonsense, vote for McCain. Our country cannot bet on 2007's "Most Conservative Senator" Obama.

Independents – Vote for McCain!

Women (or ho's like Obama's guest speakers calls them) – Vote for McCain!

Hispanics for McCain 2 to 1 – Vote McCain!

If you want a change in the wrong direction – Vote Obama!

My 1st comment didnt get posted not sure why when was 2nd but anyway all you people who keep saying you wont vote for Barack who cares we have heard it already and you can only say it so many times until Nov gets here. For the people who keep saying Barack supporters think he is the Messiah. As a Christian I know who I serve and it aint Barack but he will get my vote.

Bernie is one of my fav comedians but that was NOT the time for that joke simple as that. McCain himself makes bad jokes ALL the time esp. about the Iranian people (yes even innocent ones) but I guess nobody cares about that.

I can't wait to vote for you Barak!

Oh, by the way, I'm just messin' with you man.

Well Jesse Jackson ... here's your out.

You can catisgate Bernie Mac for his disrespectful reference to the sistahs ... and claim some of the good graces of America for yourself

G-money ....

Am I my brother's keeper .... BANG ... yes I am.

No story here, CNN is just trying to be like Fox "Fix" News.

That 'MCSHAME" nickname is STUPID....Come up with one better than that...

Not only is that joke inappropriate to the situation, it's OLD.

When will Americans WAKE UP? Doesn't it scare you that the leader of the free world may be a man who is so SPINELESS that all he can muster is a "Hey, clean it up. But I'm just messin' with you, man"? C'mon, now.

I'll take strength and resolve over style and rhetoric ANY day. Obama grows less appealing by the day.

Obama is turning to velcro – he's getting himself tarred with about everything that will turn off the electorate. Too bad. Those most offended and alienated by this kind of crap will have nothing left to cling to except their guns and backwoods religion.

CNN YOU POST ALL THESE RACIAL AND HATEFUL COMMENTS
AND TURN ME AWAY 6 TIMES......HAVE A GOOD DAY !!!!

Did he mean Freddie Mac?

Bad form, Bernie.
Bad judgment, Senator.

So, let's not give the right-wing cacklers any more to focus on. I guess a really bad joke is bigger news than the economic advisor calling the US a "nation of whiners".

Clean up his act? Are they serious? Maybe it was the price of the event, that at 2k a pop the stage entertainer can be offensive and vulgar? Why didn't every woman in the audience stand up and boo this moron??
Shame!! And shame on Obama for not having the guts to be more angry about this vulgarity! But it's about the money, right? I'm still a Hillary fan!

"CNN, why dont you guys ever post the story of McShame wisecrack of using cigarettes to kill civilian Iranians?!"

My thoughts exactly!!!!

Bernie Mac is a Comedian – rough, late nights, clubs, stand-up and being RAW is how he makes his living......so when Sen Obama says he needs to clean up his act (then says just kidding) he understands the if Mac cleans up his act-he probably be unemployed.

His jokes in such an environment are inappropriate. However, seeing the posts here its obvious the Anti-Obama folks are stuck up, no sense of humor, extremely sensitive to EVERY LITTLE THING and are very unhappy with themselves & their lives
But you to can make a Change--Rock the VOTE!!!
Obama '08

Just lighten up!

I have to agree....its so funny, if he would just stop allowing his "friends" to screw up his campaign he might have a chance....Hasnt there been enough black on black violence...

CE is right. It is not too late for the super delegates to vote for Hillary. Let Hillary give her acceptance speech at Invesco Field. I might come for that. Obama is a politician pure and simple, but he won't fess up to it and that turns my stomach.

This is invited trash what is wrong with his people setting up this they know what to expect from these lowlifes and continue with it getting to be an everyday habit.
This idiot belongs with McBush trash talk and it is
ALWAYS comments about woman ?
Obama you should be ashamed at what you said sounded like condoning it he should have b een thrown out imediately .
If you came to play music you would want to know what would be played so where is ther party that screens what is being said ????????????????????????????????????????????????
Even a dummy would question what was to go on.OMG

I'm not sure it's fair to continue to hold Barack Obama responsible for what everybody says. What Bernie Mac said wasn't funny and it wasn't appropriate, but I am pretty sure his routine wasn't blessed by the Obama campaign.

Thank God we have Senator Barack's spokesman to tell me what the Senator meant, how he views things like this, and what I should think.

Our Great Presidents: "Ask not what your country can do for you…"; "We have nothing to fear but fear itself."; and "I'm just messing with you, man."

I am writing in Hillary Rodham Clinton on November 4.
Please join me.

You people criticising Obama over Bernie's remarks need to back up and stop being hypocrites. Barack is not responsible for every word that comes out of his friend's or supporter's mouths, just as you're not responsible for everything that come out the mouth's of people you call friends. We all have some over the top friends that we like, but don't necessarily agree with on everything. And if you deny this, you KNOW you are lying. So cut the BS. If you don't like or support BO, that is fine, but at least try and have some credibility in your criticisms.

Thank God we have Senator Barack's spokesman to tell me what the Senator meant, how he views things like this, and what I should think.

Our Great Presidents: "Ask not what your country can do for you..."; "We have nothing to fear but fear itself."; and "I'm just messing with you, man."

I am writing in Hillary Rodham Clinton on November 4.
Please join me.

Another low life in Obama's world. Just kidding Obama i didn't mean to question your highness judgment.
It's getting crowded underneath the Obama bus.

H-H

How is that not racist? From the id line to the content it is racist and worse, ignorant. So much of what has been written about this incident has been both.

Mack is what far too many comics have become, insensitive to what many decent people think of as funny. However, what is worse is that he represents the kind of low brow humor that has characterized the kind of comedy that blacks have to engage in if they want to get a shot from white venues and audiences. Remember that it pretty much took Bill Cosby to break through in clean humor.

Still, you can see the true colors of many of the posters when their comments turn directly to Obama's race. They wouldn't care what was said, humorous or not. They are simply racists.

The bottom line is that much of what we might see in comedy clubs, in movies, or on cable tv and take a regular really doesn't play well in mainstream gatherings of people. The cable type comedy special stuff just isn't funny when we are in a group. This says more about the state of our entertainment and what we will tolerate than it does about Obama. It sounds like Mack just showed up and then showed out. Obama was gracious and let him have a bit of the spotlight, and then Mack showed out.

i like the closet bigots and rascists who are hiding behind conservative politics to express their hatred and divisive idiologies.....how did senator Obama become seemly (if u listen to these extreme-right idiots) the worse candidate to ever run for president??? The truth is Barack is a political phenom!

Shame on Bernie Mac – What was he thinking? Kind of like TV programs all day every day. Our kids unfortunately are exposed to this unnecessary attempt at 'just joking' day in and day out. Barack I hope you have someone check out introductions from now on. Having that said – I see it has nothing to do with the politics of campaigning and my vote remains in your column.

For you Clinton hangers on – get over yourselves!!

CNN... it's Senator, not Senstor.

Obama's wisdom at work. Some more denoucing and rejecting for a few days.

CNN: remember when John Stewart tore apart tucker on crossfire for the media not doing their job? Well, you haven't learned. I couldn't find any other news network that posted this "news".

Man !! I wish I could pin all my mistakes in this life on someone else.

Maybe if we all try real hard, we can find a way for Barack to take the blame for EVERY IDIOT IN THIS ROOM !!!!!

You nut-cases. Barack didn't say it – go away PUMAs in disguise.

Bernie wasn't funny. "Hos" is not a cute comment – it's plain disrespectful through and through. Disrespect towards women crosses ethnic and other cultural bounds and so Bernie should be put down for the comment and not invited back. Jackson is hardly one to talk – womanizing while counseling the former Pres. Is he still paying for his kid (out of his pocket or his foundation's?).

Bill Cosby and Barack both have it right in expecting a higher ground, but for all people, not just those who share their shade.

I've always been on the fence about Obama and this incident still keeps me on it. I must say that I was deeply appreciative of the way Obama both recognized and called out that joke whose punchline is at the expense of women. Many people would have let it slide saying "it's only a joke" (which is the mentality behind people who laugh at racist jokes).

On the other hand, I'm perturbed that in the next sentence he says, "I'm just messing with you, man". How should I interpret that? That he was simply trying to diffuse the situation? Or is it that he was poking fun of over-political correctness? – at the expense of women.

Obama ditched Bernie Mac very quickly the same way he threw his "typical white grandmother" under a bus during his hitoric Messiah-like speech on "Race" that every news commentator gets teary-eyed about when they mention it.. He also left his Christian Church very easily to make himself look better. I wonder how Christian he reall is? He doesn't act Christian.

John Ret. Air Force --- good reason to NEVER have a COMEDIAN introduce you or entertain at a function-they are notorious for saying politically incorrect and often nasty things. I hope Barack learns from this. He doesn't need any real trouble with all the media (YES YOU CNN) bias against him already.

YOU ARE THE ONLY ONE THAT DIDN'T BLAME MR OABAMA FOR BERNIE ACTION.......

I AM SURPRISED ...CNN POST

Where are my comments? Too educated for your audience?

That was not a good . just because you got money don't mean you got
brains.

I now realize this guy cant take a stand on anything... Obama just lost my vote..

Bernie Mac, you are a SHAME

Forget the people in the joke, we're ALL screwed regardless of which major party candidate becomes president. Spend what money you have now, it'sll be worth a small fraction of its value a couple years from now.

Hey 'HRC ALL THE WAY',

Ummm, your candidate lost. Welcome to the present.

Thanks,

John

What Obama meant when he said, " I'm just messing with you," is that he agreed with the putting down of women and calling them "ho's," and Obama is no different than Don Imus when it comes to putting women down.

There is a time and a place for everything...and Bernie-this was neither for such "joking around". I'm a HUGE fan and I'm sure he regrets it. This was not the place to be using such language.

Of course all the weirdos will say _ Obama will have no body supporting him when he rebukes them all – Guess Again.
Obama 08 all they way Baby.

hey everyone, suck my balls!

I am so sick of this and all you who feeds into this. Cnn lives to show the negative in Obama but fails to show the same in McCain. Sound bites and fixed moment where he finally can put a few words together that makes sense. As much as you say things have changed it has not. Obama has to be twice as good and never make mistakes is foolish in thought. No one is responsible for what someone else says or do. They only speaks for themselves right, wrong or indifferent. There are going to be people and words that won't agree with most in the long months ahead until we get a new president. And once we do neither one will be able to fix what is completely wrong with America. Because American and our way of thinking racist, sexism ect that is what keeps us from truly living up to the American dream. Because until we can truly get past that nothing is ever going to change. Now that is something to think about and start changing within ourselves. Not what Bernie Mac said or Gramm or anyone else.

I AGREE WITH THE ABOVE COMMENT. RACISM WILL PREVAIL IN THIS COUNTRY. MATTERS WOULD WORSEN IF THIS MAN BECOMES PRESIDENT. MAY GOD HELP US.

If you ever watch Kathy Griffith show, she does this sort of thing all the time and has the exact same response. Race has nothing to do with it. You have to know your audience.

What did you expect with Bernie Mac? Obama surely knew what kind of comedian he is. Well maybe not, he did not know much about Rev. Wright of Father Pfleger after spending twenty years with them.

The Comment was done in bad taste. Wrong place for a comment such as that.

good grief. he's a comedian. you guys make it sound like a he's a member of Obama's campaign.

WOW, a bunch of arrogant republicans attacked CNN website? On the miserable joke of some second grade comedian? Is it a joke? Is this the most important economical and political issue we face today?

Ok, now let's say who Obama and Bernie really are based on that. People are so sensitive in this country. I agree that the joke was no appropriate, but you cannot say that defines Barack, or that the act defines Bernie. He made a mistake, tough luck, so what? Apologize and move on!

They should have talked about what he was going to say ahead of time.Kinda like when Martin did Saturday night live. Apparently Lorn Michael had never watched Def Comedy Jam.......(and whoever booked BM hadn't either)

"Senstor Obama told Bernie Mac that he doesn't condone these statements and believes what was said was inappropriate," campaign spokeswoman Jen Psaki said.

Senstor? Doesn't condone?

Don't pay attention to a comedian. What are we going to do about the 10 Trillion $ National Debt.- Health Care, cost of living, gas prices, education, Iraq, Iran, Homless, Hungry, crime ?????????????

Wow, Obama even tries to play it both ways on this one. "Just messing with you"? Come on Barack, this was a flat out misogynist "joke", and you should have condemned it outright!

Ignorance and bad taste at its best.....!!!!! God help us...!!!!!

I am not a fan of Bernic Mac, nor do I found him funny, but not because he is "offensive." The kind of jokes he made may not be "politically correct," but by those standards, neither is a lot of stuff in our society. If you are really offended by it, then fine, but I get the feeling that people try to pretend to be something they're not just to sell an image. That's what really frustrates me.

For example, Dave Chapelle says some pretty politically incorrect jokes, but they're hilarious because, you know what? People don't moan and complain, they actually use their brains and register the fact that they're just jokes– oh, and he's a comedian! Who'd have thought?!

the Joke is Obama

The NObama quote that was theactual truth is "Hhey man I am just messin' with you."

People better hear that... Those of you planning to vote for that empty suit marxist are being taken in...

barf

I wonder if this is the kind of material we can look forward to at an Obama inauguration?

Obama sucks!

called the comedian a "great friend." Bernie, you've got to clean up your act next time," he said. . . . . I'm just messing with you, man."

So what, exactly, are you saying, Obama? Do you approve or don't you approve? This isn't rocket science - a simple, straight-forward comment would do!

For the crazy ones commenting that obama told bernie after rebuking him that he was just messing with him, what more are you asking of obama? Do you want him to to completely talk down a grown man and a professional before a live audience, espeicially when he was there in the first place to support him? Telling him to clean his act is good enough and very tactful and I believe, that bernie learnt from that. Telling him that he was messing with him, was a way to help him keep some of his dignity before the audience. Afterall, bernie did not commit any offence, he made a joke that he shouldn't have made espeicially in a forum like that.

Obama is not a perfect man, and he has never claimed to be perfect. But people should judge him based on what he said not what someone else said. For a long time, his distractors have been scrambling for anything with which to pull him down, having seen nothing, they have now switched to blaming him for what someone else did or say. While Mcsame is going about making one gaffe or the other and nobody is talking about that. Very soon, the repulicans and anti obama groups will start blaming obama for mcsame's gaffes.

Finnally, I will urge people to be mindful of the comments they make about the next president of this country, obama. If we embark on a malicious campaign against our incoming next president, what does that say about us as a nation? Better respect what is yours so that others would take a cue from you. A word is enough for the wise! May God bless America.

Simple as that. All you have to do is pull the curtain back just a little to see the real Obama.

America will say NO to the RACISM and SEXISM of OBAMA in November.

Obama is an empty suit. Without a teleprompter, he is a moron. He belonged to a racist church for 20 years. His chief fundraiser of 20 years, Tony Rezko, was convicted on 16 counts of fraud. He is friends with bigots like Jeremiah Wright and Michael Pfleger for 20 years, and terrorist Bill Ayers. National Journal named him the most liberal senator, His wife has never been proud of the US. What a resume.

obviously he saw nothing wrong with the joke. after all Michelle puts out the trash and plunges the- out of the toilet and Hillary is a regular Annie Oakley because she can shoot a gun and this guy wonders why he as trouble getting the women's vote. when it finally dawns on him then he'll go out of his way to show respect. yeah sweety you'll just smile and they'll forgive you. lol

The joke Bernie Mac told went all over the internet several years ago (the CNN story is missing a lot of it) and it was sent to me by Republican conservatives, liberal Democrats, women and men (several times). A lot of folks found it funny when sending over the internet and now only because it was actually stated during a political event, many people are "totally outraged." These same people I guarantee are not so outraged when they hit "forward" on e-mails sending inappropriate jokes all over the place. But, I have enjoyed reading all of the comments above and all of those "holier-than-thou" folks just sickened by all of this.

Great, can't wait till we have Benie Mac and co. running around the White House. We'll still be the laughing stock of the free world, just with a different puch line.

Typical black comedian. Obama says,"I'm just messing with you man." What does that mean? Does it mean, I have to put you in your place, wink-wink? Obama had to refine his position, once the audience let him know, it was in very poor taste. Bill Cosby doesn't need these types of jokes to be funny. Listen to most black comedians and you will hear the EF word, ever other word. With the exception of a motha efer, every now and then. I don't think a bankrupt vocabulary is funny. Obama lacks judgement in a lot of areas. I cannot and will not vote for him or McCain, I will write Hillary on my ballot in November. Please Hillary, do not be his VP!!!!

Good for Obama. He needed to make clear he does not condone inappropriate remarks. Every time some person connected with the Obama campaign or campaign events does or says something questionable, the Republican DIRT machine goes into action. It says much that so many of the Obama supporters have never had the opportunity or felt the inclination to be part of a Presidential campaign in the past. They are learning and we all benefit from full participation. You can read the remarks here in this article and feel the ignorance and hate. I'm ready for a change away from the corruption of the past Bush years. There have been lies and disrespect for our veterans and Constitution. Even the Supreme Court has come under suspicion. George W. Bush or a candidate that reflects his views has no place in America's future except within a courtroom. I can appreciate that the future speakers/entertainers will be more informed about family standards. Now what will McCain do about the blatant obcenity that is our current Republican President?

Lisa ----This is very unprofessional!!! These are the type of friends Obama will hang out with in the White House. Next thing you know Obama will give a speech how he doesn't condone this behavior then throw Bernie Mack under the bus. Don't worry, Bernie Mack has plenty of people to hang out with under there. The Grandmother, The Kids, Jesse Jackson, The Rev Wright, Bill and Hillary. Sounds like it's getting fun under there, soon I'll want Obama to throw me under there, only because Bill & Hill are there.
Bet you he want have MONICA ........IDIOT

I TOLD HIM... THE SAME WITH OPRAH...

UNITED WE'RE STRONGER

OBAMA (P) & CLINTON (VP) 2008-2014

NO TO "BUSH II" (MCCAIN), NO TO MR. WAR, MR. DEATH, MR. OOPS I BUMP MY HEAD, YOU'RE TOO OLD AND YOU ARE "WAR-SICK" SINCE YOU WERE PRISONER IN VIETNAM, YOU WON'T BE PRESIDENT!

Obama said he was just kidding because he thought about Jesse Jackson and his feelings. Obama feels he cannot lose another African American friend or he truly sold out. Let's not forget during the primaries he refused to attend any African American event. He didn't even attend Martin Luther King 40th anniversary because he was busy campaigning. That's why a lot of the older genaration of AA knew he was a fraud. I'm 30 years old and I don't consider myself an old lady, but old enough to know a fraud when I see one.

Some of ya'll are really sad. Being friends with someone does not mean you share the same brain, just like attending a church (which you seem to keep bringing up), does not mean every word that comes out the preachers mouth is gospel. As someone stated, there is a time and a place, and a Bernie should have known, that was not the time, place or type of environment to tell that joke.
And to the point at hand, this is newsworthy, HOW?

Fire whoever let Bernie Mac on stage. They should have known his humor is inappropriate for that audience.

Hussein Hussein

Would you PLEASE get yourself some de-caf!! There are better things to get upset over.

Besides Obama is the change (for the better) this country needs and it shouldn't matter THAT much what routine a comedian does on stage. We're electing Obama, NOT Bernie Mac.

Wow! $2,300.00! I hope he was wearing a speedo and carrying a basketball. American flag speedos are in! I also heard that he might get his pre-presidential logo tatooed on his arm. Come on people wake up. This isn't the silly season. It may be the most important election of a life time. How can you put the leader of the looney patrol, democrats in charge of your lives? Latest polls, depending on who you want to believe show a 9% approval rating for congress. Guess who is in control of congress? That's right, the democrats. Now you want an empty suited yes man to turn them loose on you even more. All dems do is tax and spend. Study very carefully Mr. Obama's tax plans. Don't take it from me. You may get the shock of a life time if you read the small print. Cheers!

Why is it a black man can say the word "ho" when describing a woman of color yet a white man (Don Imus) uses the same word and half the country calls for him to be fired, sued and made to appologize?? Seems to be a double standard to me.

Obama would have gained a lot more respect if he got up on that stage and denounced what Bernie said right then and there (and not in a joking manner). But I guess some in the black establishment would disown him.

I'm begining to think Nader might be the best choice with the least amount of bagage and dumb moves.

one would think bernie would have had a better repour for an event like this ,, umm wheres respect gone anyways????

This is just stupid news. CNN you are at an all-time low with your bias. What about all the stupid stuff McSame has said about killing the Iranians. That actually scares me but instead of reporting that you report THIS STUPID news.

Why is it that every time anyone remotely connected to Obama's campaign says something disastrous, it's covered. But McCain himself, or his top advisors, can say horrible things and it's barely covered by the press. Within the last few days, McCain said that Social Secuity working as it's intended was a disgrace, he said that his policies would give a psychological boost only, his economic advisor said that we are 'a nation of whiners', another advisor repeatedly lied about Obama's tax proposals and voting record, and on and on. But the press barely covers those stories to the extent that they cover every aspect of Obama's, no matter how remotely it's connected to the actual candidate. McCain and his inner circle have said some horrible things lately, and they deserve to be scrutinized much more thoroughly than this.

Is Obama gonna tell Jesse to clean up HIS act ?

I am sick and tired of the media making each of the candidates responsible for what everyone and their brother has to say. I'm not an Obama fan, but who really cares about this? Next we will find out that McCains third cousin's ex-wife's sister made some inappropriate remark, and somehow it will be McCain's fault.

By the way, it's funny how CNN has been silent on the latest round of polling. Gallup has Obama only up by 4 today, Newsweek just came out with a poll that shows Obama only up by 3, and the latest Rasmussen tracking poll has Obama up by only 1 point!!! It seems to me the race is tightening, but you won't see CNN posting any articles on these polls. They will simply cherry pick the one that shows their favorite candidate (Obama) way ahead. Do you really think we can't see through all of this CNN? How about some objective reporting on real news.

Bernie Mac is usally family oriented so I'm surprised he stepped out this way....i won't cast a stone this time..but do hope he keeps it clean for the next time...he is a good comedian and doesn't need to sell himself short with foul garbage....lets make this world a little bit cleaner, even with our words.

again we see the real obama. he was cool with Bernie till someone told him not to be and of course out comes the rebuttal statements. why does he public put up with this guy. it's not a coincidence he is forever making speeches or having a news conference to explain what he meant when he said what he didn't mean yada yada. he is a stooge for powers that be who will not let him debate in an open forum because off the script without his teleprompter he is toast. god save america

I find it interesting that whenever Obama says something about someone the CNN heading would be "Obama scolds...rebukes...mocks...etc" Are these heading intended to show Obama as an elitist???

HRC ALL THE WAY –when is BHO going to take responsibility for his actions? I will not vote for him, not in November not 4 years from now, not ever!..............THE guy is a COMEDIAN,personally I would not pay $1.00 to see him
Voter -- feel sorry for his daughters growing with a man like that as their father..... Now you know Mr Obama is a good Father ......Besides he is what he is (Bernie) a comedian ............ this how he makes his living although it was not the right Place .......if he had said the Lord's Prayer you guys would say something about that .Let It go

Clowns like Bernie Mac and Haters spitting their bile (formerly at Hillary and not at just about everyone) and using Barack as a cover for their vulgar non-constructive self-absorbed ways could cost Senator Obama the election. Get over yourself, grow up and show respect for your candidate.

The public is a fickle lot. No one cared about Bernie's jokes when he had a syndicated television show.............now he introduces Barack with an old joke and everyone is up in arms.

Sorry, BO it's too little too late. It's over for you but I'm sure you're to arrogant to care. Your flip flopping and back tracking have done you in. You are nothing more then a lying hypocrite and you do not deserve to be the nominee. Hopefully, the super delegates still have a bit of integrity left and will vote for Senator Clinton that is unless Dean, Pelosi and Brazile haven't rigged the convention for you. If you are the nominee my vote will go to McCain. You don't deserve to be a senator much less president.

Join Puma Pac if you want the Democratic Party back.

Obama I'm voting for you, "Just messing with you man!"

AMERICA WE ARE GETTING TOO SERIOUS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

This is a none-story.

Jesse Jackson has apparently already gotten hold of Obama. He couldn't even take a stand in the moment without childishly making it into a joke at the end!

I really cannot believe the statement after the fact because with the immediate opportunity to take a stand he did nothing....

Phil Gramm gets a few hours of coverage from CNN....and this gets top story in the ticker? Let me go whine about my mental recession now...

Bernie MAC is an accomplished comedian, and as acts have generated revenue as

Original Kings of Comedy:
movie – $40 million
tour – $40 million
DVD -$80 million

my point? everyone knows him and is brand of comedy and clearly $160million of revenue doesn't come from a homogenous audience.

if they didn't want that brand of entertainment, they shouldn't have contracted him.

good comedians should be provocative. They are risk takers who through jokes force us to confront realities we deny.

Bernie Mac is not a dumb man so why would he accept an engagement that he knew would not be open too the language that he usually uses in his acts. There is a time and a place for everything and this was not one where you go in an tell dumb put down jokes about women.

Please let each of us start respecting each other and stop using offensive terms when speaking of individuals. The term used by Bernie Mac is not restricted to describing a African American female but too describing all females, regardless of her race.

Bernie Mac for VP!

To Experience Counts.
Your comment,wanting to ask Obama what 2+2 is, had me laughing. Your descriptive "Obama response" had me picturing him exactly as you desribed.
On the serious side of the Bernie/Obama exchange ending with "I'm just messing with you" it just adds to a very uncomfortable feeling I get about Obama.

I like Senator Obama

I like Bernie Mac

But you don't ask your frat drinking buddies to give you an intro at a job interview

I've been in Obama's corner in every controvertial thing so far, but this time there was a serious lack of judgement by someone in his campaign in letting Bernie speak at this event

-1 point, moving on...

I've been trying to explain to Obama supporters that he's more like a friend than a President but they didn't want to believe me.

Big surprise there!
Just say Nobama!

Obama continues to give Hillary supporters reasons to support him on election day. Nope.

Putting women down is no joke. Any politician who is a friend of someone who continues in 2008 to put women down should not be running for president. Because Barack is not a woman does not give him or anyone else the right to put women down. Prostitution and derogatory language has no place in politic. The same standard needs to be set for women as for race. Anyone making a comment such as that, joke or no joke, should be immediately rebuked. Obama is clearly not the great uniter that he keeps trying to say he is. He should have come out and immediately said that such language was wrong and would not be tolerated. He should have apologized immediately. As a woman his defense of women was in itself a joke. He is not presidential material.

Both are friends...eh? Change? Nothing has changed.

I'm sorry but Bernie Mac is not funny, and he should clean up his act.

you guys from CNN are against Obama. You are only posting negative comments on Obama. Shame on you, advocates of old politics

Obama not now not ever !!!

justsaynodeal.

@CE, re: Obama always rebuking his friends...

I'm not sure what to make of it really. Either Obama has incredibly poor judgement in his selection of friends and keeps realizing their deficiencies after the fact. Or he is incredibly two faced: showing one face to the nation and a completely different one to these miscreant friends of his. Problem is the guy just appeared on the national stage and we don't really know him. I guess we'll find out who he is AFTER he becomes president. BTW, is it just me, or does it seem like there's something horribly wrong with this picture?

Voter said "This jerk comedian is just..."

The fact that you have no idea who Bernie Mac is means you're just as confused and out of touch as McCain is.

Step aside. Let the youth fix the country you all broke, please...before it gets worse.

Obama 08'

Why is it a big deal? CNN get it together and down highlighting nonsense. This is not a news item I get so sick of much to do about nothing tabaloid reading. Can we have real news items from both camps and not just focus on the people around Sen Obama. We are more than a one dimentional nation of people. Sometimes i don't know if this is news for entertainment only or just gossip. Where is the news?

'Hussein Hussein': quit it! Your nonsense is just sickening!

I like Bernie since back in the day but this was not the place for that joke... Yeah, he should have stayed home on that one....

You are the company you keep.

Obama an old saying you should listen to:
"Play with dirt your gonna get dirty"
And from the noise of your friends Rezko, Wright, Bernie Mac your downright FILTHY!!!!
Go PUMA's

Well Obama is at it again. I love Hillary and all she represented for women in America. I will not be voting for Barack Obama. I am a democrat, but I am not a democrat for Barack Obama. He continues to find real "winners" to represent his campaign. He continues to allow those around him to keep putting women down. "Im just messing with you." Really well Mr. Obama you do have a mess on your hands. If you think that all of Hillary's supporters are just gonna fall into your lap and vote for you well you got it wrong sir. I've met many who would much rather vote for McCain. You're not the man you say you are. You are the slimiest politician I have ever seen because not only do you do exactly what they all do, but you try to make people believe that you dont. Well I'm not buying it. Keep allowing people around you to put women down. You have two daughters. And finally, try, try to be a little more humble. You are not Kennedy, Martin Luther King or Lincoln. As a senator what are your great accomplishments?... Humility is a virtue which would make people a lot more happy to support you. I suggest you try to get some.

I am a republican who is voting for Barack and I never voted for a democrat in my life. It sounds like you republicans who read this statement have nothing better to do than show hatred. Lets talk about McCains advisors who say such things as we are a country of whiners, we need a terrorist attack on US soil, and thats Barack being shot at. I rather have Obama's friends over McCains friends anytime.

If Obama was "in-touch" with American people, he'd realize they do not take JOKES seriously!

CLINTON '08....at least she talked about what Americans care about.

The joke was in poor taste, but what is even sadder is that Obama clearly didn't mind it by saying the "clean up you act...just messing with you man"

Obama to Ahmedinejad: "If you attack Israel or our other allies we will defend them"... "ahhhh, I'm just messin' with ya...."

KP...this is everyday kind of news and it is definitely an issue!

Get of the Stage Bernie Mac....Ho chaser......!

O-M-G! BERNIE MAC MADE AN OFF-COLOR JOKE! SOMEHOW THIS ALL MEANS OBAMA COULD NEVER BE PRESIDENT!

Please stop, trolls. Its getting obnoxious.

Obama 08'

Who is this character that made those .....remarks.?..I'm sure Sen. Obama was being diplomatic....as he always does. Bernie...and I loved his show,re-runs as they are...needs to give up "the Ho thing" was his Mother a "Ho" ? Can he tell a joke without being "sexist" or "Racist" and he calls himself an Artist.....! Wake Up "Rip Van America.....Barack has the "Right Stuff"

Bernie Mac doesn't get it. What is appropriate for a comedy club is not appropriate at a campaign rally hoping to elect the next President of the United States.

If Obama loses is there going to be a riot?

Bernie is brain dead. What is appropriate for a comedy club is not appropriate at a campaign rally hoping to elect the next President of the United States.

This is the kind of rot that took hold during the primary season.
It continues to be a big festival of sexism, and even the wives and daughters, and sisters have joined in. They don't care what anybody says about women, and they will continued to sing and dance all over again during the general election.

Unbelievable, no one wants to slow it down, or clean it up, and I can't help but wonder are they that accustomed to this?

Obama-don't be telling Bernie Mac what to say--are you judge and jury?-who tells you what to say?-ever heard of free speech? You becoming a tyrant, man and you ain't in the House yet–

People like Bernie Mac just needs to stay at home from Obama if they have no more to offer. That was distasteful and depict something telling about Bernie Mac. There are people out there that would hold Barack Obama accountable for other people distastful actions, but people like me and most others never choose Barack Obama as the candidate by what others do or say. We listen to what he says and not how the media and others take it all out out of context We are not subject to being traders because he broadning hisplan on the bringing the troops home in 16 months by saying he will define his plan. That only means he is going to perfect the plan as needed. What is so idiotic about all of this is that his bottomline is that he will bring the troops home all this in between things does not matter stick to the bottomline point of view. The other thing is Obama based upon his volunteer backers of donations he made a decision not to take the Federal Money of some 85 mil a good thing. He was bashed for that as if one have to always walk a straight line in a straight jacket without the right to change their mind he is not a prisioner. Common sense should tell all of us times maybe bring about changes but the first intention of the bottomline is still in effect. My Lord its unbeliveable how as soon as the McCain camp or the media throw out attacks against Obama people seem to have no mind or judgement of their own its like the wind throwing them too and fro, that is the way they go. I am hard pressed to believe anything McCain says my experience about Republicans is that they are very judgemental of others, arrogant, and hipocritical and do not live up to their own standards on their views. The experience has taught me that it will be a long,long time before I vote for a nother Republican again if ever They are great for twisting the other persons intentions around to mean what they want it to mean that is what McCAIN do to Obama. BEWARE VOTERS!!!!!!

Wait, you ridiculous liberals keep praising BO for having responsible judgment. Isn't it his "incredible judgment" that led him to vote against the war in Iraq? Haha! Great judgment Obama, you moron...too bad Richard Pryor wasn't still around, then we would have actually laughed as he made your campaign melt down! McCain 08!!!

I love the people who hate on Obama. It was a surprise guest. Bernie has always been that kind of comedian. It's nothing new about what Bernie said, but it's okay for a person who is running to be on McCain's VP ticket calls the nation a bunch of whiners and that we are not in a recession. Is McCain always with that person (names fails me), Is he a reflection of McCain? STOP trying to find reasons to hate on Obama.

Well, I won't chide Obama over Bernie Mac's comments. I don't think they reflect B.O.'s opinions. But I will chide him over his political positions, tax/energy/national security plans, lack of experience and LACK of judgement – including not foreseeing that inviting a guy like Bernie Mac to speak at his event would lead to something like this. Same lack of judgement he has had with his other relationships – too many to list here now.

Do Obama tell Michelle what to say too?

I've been an Obama supporter since I started gaining interest in the 08 race. I voted for him in the PA Primary, and I would do so again because at the time he was the best canidate.

But, so far, after becoming the Nominee I am rather unimpressed with his campaigning style. He hasn't shown me anything to get excited about besides the thought of not having a Bush or Clinton in the Whitehouse.

If McCain wouldn't be the worst canidate to hit the General since Dole in 96 I would really consider voting republican for the first time. McCain is a great American, don't get me wrong. His time in the military and in the House and Senate are a sign of his love for America. But his views rival that of Bush just to much for my taste.

At this time, this Democrat is staying home in Novermber. Neither of these men are worthy to be our President.

I'll agree with J in Tulsa. Where is Jackson and Sharpton? Why the double standards? Remember the Imus story some time ago...not once but twice. Maybe the Reverends Wright, Sharpton, and Jackson will guide and counsel Mr. Mac because we never want our ladies portrayed or referred to as "HOS", do we Bernie? What a "CROCK".

HRC ALL THE WAY we don't need you now or 4 years from know.

and he would most certainly FORGIVE you
that is the type of person he is

you are a sad fellow you are !

I happen to think HUSSEIN is a lovely name !
you r not offending anyone but yourself with this horrible attitude !

Who cares? With his vote to allow the government even more power to trample on Americans' civil liberties through increased 'surveillance' ('snooping' or 'spying' would be more accurate), Obama is becoming 'whiter' and more like a Republican by the day. For many who believed mistakenly that Obama represented change, the only option now is Ralph Nader.

There goes Obama again, telling "brothers" what to say and what not to say. He's just another elitist as people are learning.

So Obama called Mac his "good friend" ?

Senator Obama, if it wouldn't inconvenience you too awfully much, could you please introduce the public to at least one good friend of yours who is neither racist, nor sexist, nor a scumbag? Do you actually have even ONE decent friend?

Should have went with Steve Harvey.

Women take such a place of honor in the eyes of younger black men. I am tired and disgusted with the b.... and h..... words. However, it is African-American women who keep their familites alive and instill hope and morals. I am tired of African-American men attempting to tell us that there is an African-American Culture....... there is..... but it is made up of mothers and grandmothers who do not abandon their children, disrespect women, and blatantly disregard court-ordered child support. Jesse Jackson was right about the hypocrisy and lack of responsibiltiy that has plaged the African-American community for far too long. Why would Obama seek out Bernie Mac for a fund raiser? Easy. Obama makes poor decisions. How's the fund raising going, Barack?

Hey Goldman,

This is a Democratic event involving a Democratic candidate and an I-don't-know-what comedian. Your attempt at cuteness with the "McSame" label to somehow smear McCain out of this is just shameful.

Mr. Obama should have said more than "I'm just messing with you." He should have had the fortitude to amicably rebuke his friend for the ungentlemanly and tasteless behavior of a supporter. But it seems more and more that Mr. Obama does not have that quality or ability to do the right thing. The votes in Denver have not yet been cast or tallied. DELEGATES TAKE NOTE! Many Democrats, like this writer, are very disturbed by the ominous signs and signals Mr. Obama is sending. Mr. McCain is looking more and more appealing.

Give me a break!!!!! I'm not a supporter of Barack Obama and i disagree with everything he does. But but for christ
sake, they were at a fund raiser and Bernie was doing what he does best.

HE IS A COMEDIAN.!!! People need to calm down and stop making a big deal out of nothing. Have a sense of humor everyone.

This is news... HOW?

I suppose Bernie Mac is now off the short list of possible VP candidates.

Give me a break!!!!! BaI'm not a supporter of rack Obama and i disagree with everything he does. But but for christ
sake, they were at a fund raiser and Bernie was doing what he does best.

HE IS A COMEDIAN.!!! People need to calm down and stop making a big deal out of nothing. Have a sense of humor everyone.

I fear for this country if anyone in either party gets seriously worked up about this. Poor taste, sure, but it's a joke.

Let's all watch Obama backtrack on gender and everything else! I am one of the 19 million women who will not vote for 1st time ever. Now he wants a Republican as vp instead of Clinton=just as we thought a total sexist jerk

Dont tell me Barack had no idea what Bernie was gonna say. I simply don't beleive that. Its a joke yes but there is a place and time for it. If Bernie had opened up like that for McCain all the obama supporters would be saying oh look puma's and bitter hillary supporters look what he thinks of women. I am tired of any obama does beign white washed and beign okay, just like he is white washing(err refining) he orignial stand point on many issues.

I don't get the joke...

Bernie Mac is a fool! I still support Obama but Barack needs to control the people within his campaign. His success has excited a lot of folks but they need to relax. This race ain't over until November and John McCain might steal the show!

Hussein from 4:01,
maybe Senator Obama forgave them because GOD forgive us. And thank GOD for that, otherwise people who have extreme views would already be hanging with the fallen angel who I call knucklehead.
Knucklehead.

Shirillary supports are now just PATHETIC!! Go Away already. Vote for McCain already or SHUT UP.

Earth to Bernie Mac!
Earth to Bernie Mac!

Just in case you’ve been under a rock for the past 16-months of debates and primaries!

There are 18-million Hillary voters and 10-million are of the female persuasion and a bit sensitive to sexist joke.

Earth to Bernie Mac!
Do you read me?
Over!

I don't approve of this one bit.
And I don't approve of McCain when he called is wife a c**t in public.

wow ... must be a really slow news day?!?!?

I am SO done with Obama. He is less relavent than Michael Jackson and less popular!

The DNC better wake up. Are you super-delegates still behind Obama! What a disappointing loser.

sentsor obama?

really?

either CNN or the Obama camp should spell check.

Obama is a coward and a fraud and here I am going to be stuck voting for him.

What a reaction from Obama?!! Ha Ha, the guy is a jerk, he liked the jokes and was just afraid of the reaction from his handpicked white audience. Obama is a joke in himself.

I bet you that is what McCain believes about the economy and that is why Graham came out with that comment

I would be surprised if he had not said himself to Phil Graham !

check it out , "he does not speak for me " but then what is Phil Graham doing ???? speaking for John McCain

This is the truth coming out at last !!!

and what about that thing about the social security ????
the fellow is nuts !!!
challenging the fundamental mechanism of Social Security

no slip ups , he does not embrace these issues, nor does he know anything about them !

WE WILL BE CRAZY TO VOTE FOR A MAN LIKE THAT !

His ad about love for country – he said himself to FOX he did not love America until it was taken away from him ???? so where was the love for America to start with ?

If Obama picks Hillary as VP and I were him, I wouldn't ride in any motorcades in Dallas for the next 4 years. Her supporters are venamous.

Bernie should have known better. He is quite capable of delivering clean jokes. This was definitely not the place and time for off-color jokes.

ONCE AGAIN YOU CANNOT BLAME THE CANIDATES FOR WHAT OTHER PEOPLE SAY ITS OUT OF THEIR CONTROL

LOUD NOISES

LOOK AT MY POST; I MADE IT EXTRA BIG FOR YOU TO READ

All these guys from Rev. Wright to Bernie Mac are going to be all over
the White House. This country is going down.

How disgusting. And just as disgusting is Obama's statement that he is "just messing with you". T
Obama is supposed to be running for president of all the people: no special exemptions for crude, black jokes.
I am deeply offended.

Obama to Iran:

"You need to stop your nuclear program as well as threatening Israel and its alllies. I'm just messing with you man."

Obama to China:

"We need to establish a more balanced fair trade system and you need to improve your position on human rights. I'm just messing with you man."

Obama to Americans:

I am going to bring about a much needed change and make this country what it once was and what is should be. I'm just messing with man."

Etc.

More manufcatured news courtsey of Axelrod.

To the person who is touting that this is a bad time to be Obama's friend. You are narrow-minded. We all have friends who say things that we agree and disagree with. Only, they are not under the microscope so it doesn't matter. Some of you posters are so anti-Obama that you find any justification to post your hate-filled comments. This campaign highlights the war between good and evil. Bush has been the worst president in history, yet that's okay for many of you. Obama is trying to salvage this country and all you demons do is criticize him. He's going to be the next president. If you don't like it, then find yourself a new country.

"Voter",

Well I guess a man who cheats on his wife and leaves her after she is disfigured is a better father.

Please explain that one to me

I'm not a fan of Obama's but we have to pull together. I like McCain but could never vote for him. He is an idiot we did that for 8 years. All the hatefull blogs are'nt helping.

again, another cover up to the personality of obama,,,he is good friends with bernie mac for years, but he tells him to clean it up JUST NOW? I am sure he had no knowledge of bernie mac's vulgar comedic show.......he's never attended any of his shows, and would have denounced the friendship had he known......get real folks. obama is just a lot of hot air and he's playing all his voters for fools

Lisa – you are very missinformed individual – whatever source you get your news – stop – righ now because you don't sound too smart.

Maybe they should have researched some of Bernie Mack's material before they hired him.

HRC is pretending to be all nice and sweet !

Do not trust the woman , least of all after she was egging others on to hurt Obama !!

How could anyone even contemplate her as VP
She is evil and must remain away from the campaign

Please do not trust her Senator Obama , you will live to regret it !

I'm a democrat. But I will not be voting for Obama. Frankly, I don't care if McCain becomes president – because I am not going to vote this time for the lesser of two evils. I don't like any of the candidates.

Obama has no common sense. He changes his position every day on one issue or another and his supporters praise him for his good judgement.

We've had a president for the past eight years who had no experience or business being a president ... actually Bush had more experience running a 'government' than Obama and look where that got us.

All Obama will do is do one thing, say another thing, and apologize every other day for being an idiot and making the wrong decision.

This is just another example ... Obama tries to stand up to Mac and say the routine needed cleaning up ... that we have to respect other people and women. Then he adds at the end of it " just kidding with you man".

WHY add that appeasing last thought? He is such a double talker. He repremands him and then says 'just kidding'? Completely juvenile and irresponsible. Hey Iran stop doing what you are doing or there will be consequences, just kidding!

For the first time ... I'm not voting ... I'm not voting for the lesser of two evils anymore.

NO BAMA!

Yes, in the name of comedy, you Mac. should evaluate the type of audience he is talking to. It is confusing to young people to sit and hear certain jokes that are meant for adults.

This is SAD! It shows how disrespectful to women this guy called Bernie Mac is. As a man thinks in his heart, so is he. Shame on you. Shame on Jesse Jackson, also. These guys could never become the US president. They are too gheto for that job!

Go, Obama. Go!!

Bernie Mac should know better – there's a time and place for everything and he should have modified his act based on the crowd he's entertaining – it's not rocket science! Barack was right to rebuke him.

Bernie Mac is a comedian and did what comedian do.
Its not hard to be a friend to Obama, You just have to remember that
everything you said can be held against him by the republican party
and network TV just look at this article. Its being held against Obama.

That joke has been around for years and is still funny. It can be told about any race or religion. So to make the joke a racial issue is dead wrong. Bernie Mac is hysterical. The only thing he did wrong was to perform for a bunch of uptight stuff shirts who have no sense of humor. Remember this about the words people say, it's not the words that you should be worried about. It is the intent of the person using them. Keep on Bernie Mac.

Keep peeling away at the layers of the onion skins. No matter Obama would never would have got it if the people didn't yell out and protest. Can I spell it out, stop with the sexism in your campaign.

This is a variant on an ancient joke attributed to Ben Franklin. "Madam, would you make love to me for a million francs?" "Well, I might." "What about 25 centimes?" "Sir! What do you take me for?" "We have already established that; now we are dickering about price."

The joke condemns relativist morality, and affirms absolute values. It is not an immoral joke.

-yan

PS for Nation and Dr. Mimi. STOP SHOUTING!

What a dumb decision to have a comedian who is known for racy humor (which I love by the way) introduce a presidential candidate. That would be like John McCain being introduced by Andrew Dice Clay, or Dane Cook. Come on people, GET SMART!! This is your's to lose Obama...

if BO lakes the judgement to bring a comedian who is known for crude jokes, then how is he going to have the judgement at the oval office... havd BM at the dinner was a clear issue... he's like Chris Rock or Eddie Murphy... they tell crude jokes. BO knew this, yet he took the RISK to have him on. it shows he lacks good judgement IMO. i know we all make mistakes, but this was an indication of his youth... he's not wise.

Better than what the pastors on both sides have said IMHO because at least he was TRYING to make a joke.

Get over it.

it was a dumb joke, an old joke, and it was inappropriate... Thats all.

This dosent reflect on Obama, his politics, policies, intentions NEARLY as much as McCain seeking out endorsements from Bigoted, Xenophobic, Elitist Homophobes like Revrend Rod Parsley and Pastor John Hagee.

moral of the story:

don't get a comedian to speak at campaign events. They are no place for humor and fun.

(note sarcasm)

BASHERS
YOU ARE PATHEDIC
OBAMA CAN'T KNOW WHAT EVER ONE IS GOING TO SAY. HOW MANY DIRTY,FILTHY MOUTH FRIENDS DO YOU HAVE?
BETTER YET WHAT COMES OUT OF YOUR OWN MOUTH?WHAT GOES IN YOUR EARS LISTENING TO TV OR AT THE MOVIES. THERE ARE VERY FEW SAINTS
GET OVER IT

Senstor Obama? Come on this is CNN, you should be hiring someone who at least knows how to use the spellcheck function....

By jokingly telling Bernie Mac he needs to clean up his act he has made himself a joke when it comes to respecting women. An area in which he is already considered weak on

I think Bernie must have been drunk. He clearly knows better.

Its beginning to be a race to see who has the worst campaign managers.

Obama said, ..."Bernie, you've got to clean up your act next time," he said. "This is a family affair.

And then Obama said, "By the way, I'm just messing with you, man."

Is this another BO flip flop? Did he repudiate or condone Mac's remarks?

""Senstor Obama told Bernie Mac..."

Good job CNN. Way professional.

P.S. That joke- part of which was admitted from the story- is an old one, and not, to my knowledge, a Bernie Mac original.

It is clear that Berrnie Mac used inappropriate language. He should have known better. Also, who ever chose him should have known better. The good news is that this will help these vulgar comedians to understand that people are offended by their vulgarity. On the other side, you people who are touting that you will not vote for Obama because of Berrnie Mac were not going to vote for him anyway. To the person who is still talking about Hillary. Get over it. If Hillary has won the primary, then you probably would be complaing about her. You are just a hate-filled idiot who needs a traget. Hey, why don't you try darts? You idiot!

Senator Obama obviously got the joke when he commented "By the way, I'm just messing with you, man." as he KNOWS the line of Bernie Mac's comedy routine which is the "stereotypical urban black THUG". If they (Obama's campaign and supporters) do not wish to have people like that then they should NOT have invited him nor anyone else who will do hard stand up such as Martin Lawrence, Eddie Murphy, Chris Tucker, Chris Rock ALL of whom do NOT make major alterations to their standup routines and SAY so as they view THEIR right to do hard comedy.

If the Obama campaign people want only prime time kid friendly comedians, then they should hire Bill Cosby next time.

And Mr. Mac tells Obama to .... himself.

Bernie Mac is who he is. He is not a politician who changes to suit his audience. His (Bernie's) audience is what it is. Mr. Obama should have realized this prior to hiring Mr. Mac.

'nuff

What Obama Really Meant, YOU GO BERNIE!!---WORM,

who cares?

Who gives a crap!

I am begining to think this Obama character is becoming a spoiled brat ! He wants us to learn Spanish, now he is bellyaching about Bernie Mac. Mac is a comedian and they do what they do! And this immature smooth talking individual wants to lead the greatest nation in the world? Give it up Obama and try again when you have decided to grow up! Bob Beckner Nokomis, Florida

You might want to check the spelling of "senator" on this story.

Why is that Obama has to keep distancing himself from people he calls "friends"?

These are people he called friends before the campaign... some for as much as 20 years... but now because of a political race he's calling them "inappropriate".

He flip flops on issues. And he flip flops on his friends. What's next.. his family?

Ted

There goes Barry, talking down to black people again.

Bernie Mac has a long history of telling crude off color jokes. If you don't want him to tell them at your party DON'T INVITE HIM!

I counted at least 2 position reversals in this story though. It started when he said "clean up your act" then he said "just messing with you" (flip) and then the campaign said "seriously, clean up your act"(flop)

Blacks having good time. They are getting stage and they are showing how stupid they are.

I'm glad B.O. wants to show he draws a line, especially after his flip flop vote to protect the telecom companies. I'm surprised he didn't tell Bernie to just refer to women as sweetie, because thats OK when he did that, what a hypocrit.

Senator Obama should have know they kind of humor that Bernie Mac would deliver. BO used poor judgment again by inviting this comic. Hope there is room under the bus for one more nitwit.

I like Bernie Mac but that was wrong atmosphere for that joke. The political scene is at an all time high and Obama is right we don't need to divide anyone anymore. Lets do the right thing and get along so we can make this country great. I mean for both Dems and Repubs.

Bernie is really not that funny to me he should of got somebody like Steve Harvey or Cedric they would of fit better. I know some people will use any excuse not to vote for an intelligent black man because of his color. I say watch what happens when you don't pick the smartest man because of his color you will continue to fall behind the world.

Typical democRAT, the same sort of thing happened 4 years ago with a drunken Whoope Goldburg on stage. She used the 'F' word and talked about Bush and the crowd errupted with applause. It was at a private fundraiser and NONE of that was supposed to make it to the media, but it did. And the main stream media sat on it as usual.

Senstor Obama told Bernie Mac that he doesn't condone these statements and believes what was said was inappropriate,"

Bernie Mac you should be ashame of yourself ....... Jessie now you

I am really getting tired of Clinton's supporters continually bashing Obama. She did'nt win. Obama ran a much better campaign, so get over it. He had just as many people supporting him as she did. It was'nt good enough. Better still, Just crawl back into your miserable lives and go away. Nobody really cares. She's old news, and so are you!!

First Indy, now Bernie, Mac. When will the madness stop.

oh god. u mean when u brought on BERNIE MAC, u did not know how his act went? what did you think was going to happen? knock knock jokes?

This is the trash you can expect if you foolishly vote for Obama. Don't.

The Democrats would be wise to nominate Hillary Clinton who remains the popular vote winner, winning more votes than ANY candidate of ANY party in history! Hillary remains the most qualified and most electable candidate in the race. Superdelegates take note, it's NOT too late, you don't cast your actual votes until late August in Denver at the DNC convention.

Never liked Mac and never understood his popularity or that bafoon of a family show or more imporatantly Who is that targeted at? I'm AA and I don't like the flavor of the show although the children are sweet and talented but you I don't GET and I'm AA.

Using Mac's favorite line, "Can you believe this America?" No Mac we can't! Please go away but vote for Democrate '08.

Thanks....

Here's mud in your face....

"Bernie, you've got to clean up your act next time," he said. "This is a family affair. By the way, I'm just messing with you, man."

Have some guts and call him on it, don't be wimpy and play it off as joking. Maybe if he's President "Osama, stop killing people. By the way, I'm just messing with you, man."

Another double talk statement by Obama. He can't even stick by his guns to tell this joker that he was over the line.

I am so sick of Obama saying one thing and then restating what he said another way so that it sounds better.

Instead of Obama stating: "This is a family affair. By the way, I'm just messing with you, man."

He should have just stated: "This is a family affair."

But instead Obama, the whimp that he is, backed down and allowed this ignorance to be stated and accepted.

I know this Bernie Mac idiot is a comedian, but there is a time and a place for certain jokes and obviously he had no respect for the people at this fundraiser.

well it seems to me that it just continues that its ok for persons of color to degrade and make fun of the values of america! to bad

I guess Al Sharpton is going to be protesting at Bernie Mac's shows now. If he lets Bernie Mac get away with calling women ho's without any consequences, then the world will see that Al Sharpton is the racist. I mean he went after Imus for doing the same thing.

Now it's about time, there's a clean up act in just about everything. People are letting themselves be defined by the content of their language. A clean up is needed!

no story........

Senstor obama???? learn to spell cnn

THIS IS NOT NEWS.

Obama should know better. If you have a close friend so you suppose to know him and if you still want him to introduce you or entertain you brief him.

Obama 08/12

It's just one more bit of evidence: with Obama and McCain as the party's nominees, we have the worst of all worlds.

I thought after Gore and Bush in 2000 and then Kerry and Bush in 2004, it couldn't possibly happen a third time that we'd get such untrustworthy, ethically weak candidates for president.

But there you have it. McCain doesn't know how he feels about insurance coverage for birth control because Bush hasn't told him yet, and Obama doesn't know if he's just kidding when he tells his friend to clean up his act or not: he has to wait for his campaign people to decide.

What a shame.

now Bernie Mac is a star, this is the most attention he's ever gotten, ever.

Obama will lose this election inviting 'guests' like this. You can take the bro out of the ghetto, but you can"t take the ghetto out of the bro.
McCain in '08

Barry is "just messing with" all of us. Who knows who he really is = the hypothetical politician or realistic politician. No matter how you look at it – he is still a politician. Good thing he has campaign spokespeople to tell us what he really meant. Will he have these same people telling us what he means if/when he is elected Supreme Being of the Entire Universe?

Slow news day...reluctantly Barr '08. Hate McBush for obvious reasons. Loved Obama till he voted for a quasi-bipartisan version of fisa. disillusioned.......no hope for our constitution.....executives are choking our liberty.......legislators and senators are powerless...economy going down the drain.......judicials are partisan and/or corrupt......GM and Ford has plumetted....the dollar is in a freefall.......energy prices are skyrocketing.......the climate is going to swallow bangkok in five years.........................there are still people who think global warming is a myth.........my girlfriend has liver cancer........we pay $360 per month for her chemo therapy........i can't afford health insurance, I haven't seen a doctor in over two years........her medical insurance is $300 a month...........we pay at least $100 on gas a month, all of this with a combined income of just under two grand a month..........geez what's your disaster? We go through enough bull in our existence to have to put up WITH THE LOSS OF THE RELEVANCE OF THE CONSTITUTION. DOWN WITH OBAMA AND MCCAIN. bob bar '08 just for four years when bloomberg makes up his mind.

Bernie Mac is wack, only drugies laugh at his jokes. And the event wasn't for drugies, its for people who paid 2300.00$...Obama, don't choose wackos for your event....

Has the Obama staff never seen Mac's routine??? If you don't want him to do his act, then don't have him get up and fill 10 minutes in front of a crowd.

Why is it most comedians these days have to live in the gutter?

Bernie Mac should have known better. Period! I have been a fan of the mac for years but this is nothing short of ridiculous.

What was he thinking to say something like this at an event of this magnitude? Get it together mac, you have to do better.

Obama 08

" By the way I am just messing with you,man"??
So in other words Obama is not really serious about asking his friend to not make derogatory comments on women. It took Obama's campaign, not Obama himself, to make it clear that these statements are inappropriate. So what does this tell us about Obama? Either he is a wuss and cannot stand up to a friend and make it clear his comment is inappropriate, or Obama really did not feel it was such a big issue.

The last sentence has a typo

it's one of the first few words *senator*

i've only seen a handful on CNN so it's kinda neat ha

In before angry clinton voters say they're going to help out the republicans unless he lets her be VP.

I'm a HUGE Bernie Mac fan but I think there's a time and a place for everything...He should have used better judgement...I don't blame the audience for heckling him...

Speaking of hos, how are the PUMAs doing in reducing Hillary's campaign debt?

We can expect a lot more of that type of humor if Obama is elected. McCain.....or please Hillary we really need you now, america is sad it did not wake up sooner, we have two loosers running for the top job.

He should have been rebuked for recycling that tired old joke. That joke has been circulating on the internet for years.

I think Bernie Mac's joke was just uncalled for. I mean, come on! This is a political fundraising event for goodness sakes. Leave the trashy jokes for the comedy clubs, please!

normal for Obama,,stage something and then slam the guy afterwards...he probably gave him the joke to say, just for political reasons.

Bernie Mac's joke is about as funny as Obama's candidacy.

I don't even think I get the joke.

I still would like to know which church Senator Mcain goes to.
Before this run, the last time he went to church was years ago, now he's acting as if he is a regular church goer....PLEASE!!!!

This just goes to show that even while no matter where some blacks are that same ole "attitude" that Bill Cosby talks about is still there..sad, sad, sad!!!

Was B.O. or his support and management team expecting Bernie to reinvent his comedic delivery and find a new niche, or was this knowingly or unknowingly done to make an example of someone.
Keep in mind, "It is Entertainment. It is Comedy
It may or may not reflect or be an example of who someone is on a personal level.
As a 14 year old I took Pryor, Carlin, Foxx, Dangerfield, and others as Entertainers who probably had and seem to have natural comedic abilities that could be developed, and use enough common sense, observation notes to develop material, and analysis to figure out what it is that the public, MEN & WOMEN, wants to hear and will pay for, TO BE ENTERTAINED..
No one comedion appeals to everyone, anymore than actors who play a comedic or dramatic, viciously violent part.
I have never, and would never think or refer to woman as Ho's or any other degrading expletive.
Despite exposure of the opposite, which my father would have likely objected to @ that age, by entertainers and those around me in the real world, I would no more use, think, or practice what I heard or what I hear today, including rappers and rockers who were and are at times harshly and unfairly criticized for lyrical content that I did not, and will not live out in my own life, as though there influence is the only factor with impact to influence me, and no one around me to counter any bad influences or experiences as a 10 year old, 14 year old, or as an adult.
I will agree, if I were Bernie, I would have tailored my performance to

As my role model, Dad taught me to make better decisions, respect others as I do myself and want in return, and to always aspire and rise in Life no matter what goes on in and out of Entertainment or Politics.
So, I'm in it be to be entertained and for the MUSIC that creates the party. The Dance. And the FUN, and in the case of Bernie Mac, Chapelle, and others, I'm in and will always be in it for the LAUGHTER!!!
I will agree, that if I were Bernie, I might have tailored my performance and played it safe, although I might feel I'd be failing to use what most people would expect from me, that got be to where I was in the world of comedy.
Nut that would have been like fronting and putting up a smoke screen, or censor to what got me to where Bernie is today. Would the corporations that sign and profit fom Bernie, who likely donate some candidate and party , really b4e surprised to what he said?

Some woman will come along one day, and break-out with a relentless form of "Back Atcha Boys" LIKE NEVER BEFORE as though it's been reinvented or made new again and will entertain the portion of the public that wants and pays for this type of entertainment/
It's Entertainment. NOT politics.
Z

,

Don't these people know who Bernie Mac is? What were they expecting?

What in the heavens name was Bernie Mac thinking? We are running a Presidential campaign, trying to lift the level of medicocrity, trying to establish a civility that shows the world we are better than the Bush era. These were comments for a midnite strip club show. He knows better, but chose to let this vulgar side do the talking. I'm really offended for those families attending and myself. I love his TV program, but what gave him the thought that this would be appreciated as HUMOR? Distasteful and Disgusting.... Perhaps the campaigns need to "vet" the act before showing!

"Why would you expect anything different from a black comedian?"

Comedians are comedians , pastors are pastors and we don't confuse them with civil servants or politicians.

Smart people....."ho" can be ungendered..not specifically referring to a woman....particularly when in this joke Mac was clearly referring to himself and his wife as $100,000 hoes. If we continue to make it be about women, we reinforce the idea that the only plausible "hoe" is a woman. That position is foolish. Maybe the real issue is that the term "ho" is derogatory and inappropriate at a campaign event, which has historically been a space of clean acts and clean language.

Please......It's just comedy! I hear worse from the neighbor kids, and they are 5 and 7.

WHY does obama have such "colorful" Friends?????
Seems like all his guys are messing up
Rev. Wright, Jackson, Mack – maybe he needs to find some new friends.
Obama was first in line to demand Imus be fired – for the Exact comment – my how Funny!!!

What's "par for the course", Patty? Please explain.

JAMES JOHNSON ,OBAMAS , CHIEF VICE PRESIDENCIAL VETTING TEAM WHO RESIGNED DUE SCANDAL ON HIGHLY FAVORABLES HOMES LOAS, IS NO JOKE. CEO AND INDY MACBANKS ARE THE BIG PROBLEMS OF THE NATION MARKET AND ECONOMY. TODAY.//

Two faced Obama at his best everyone. Say whatever you need to for politics. Just another typical politician with only fancy rhetoric, but no ideas.

Unless he chooses Hillary as his VP, I'll be forced to vote McCain so at least I will know what I'm getting.

McCain '08

Clinton '12

Remember the fuss made over Whoopi Goldberg at a Kerry event? Apparently Obama didn't...

Perhaps CNN could be troubled to get the joke right....

Strange thoughts, Apollo stuff and Nightlife stuff is not ready for Presidential Prime Time Stuff.
That was the week of Phil, Jesse and Bernie.
Let's regroup and move forward.

The man is comedian. His job is to make laughter, often times by utilizing social conventions and off-colour homour. Maybe it wasn't the best joke, but are why are people suprised?

Dag, now even Bernie Mac has to conform to the Obama world...

bernie mac looks like a pimp.

That is where Barack is coming from. He ahs no experience whatsoever and he has close indecent friends like Jeremiah Wright, Bernie mac. All liberals are blind and they want this man to come to White House. I hope he is rejected straight away. You cannot expect any corrections my friends. wake up...Vote John McCain

You are judged by the company you keep. My mother use to tell me that when i was a child to let me know if i did not mix with bad people i would not be a bad person, but if i did i would be judged by the conpany i kept.
I felt her judgement was a good one because i turned out fine and i did make sure i did not get mixed up the bad crowd.

Why in the world would he even say that! Come on ...Bernie! You said you're retired, if you want to do that go back on the road. Gezzzz

"By the way I am just messing with you, man". Once again this Donk has to be on both sides of an issue. Correctly condemn a foul mouth, and then say gee-shucks just kidding. Obama really scares me.

Whats the matter CNN, are the comments not in favor of Obama????

Is that why there is only one so far. I know others have commented!!!

So basically in person Obama tries to diffuse the situation because he was fully aware of the inappropriateness of Mac's statements, however in the end we can see that Jesse Jackson must have already gotten ahold of him because he was lacking in what he obviously needed by saying "I'm messing with you" in the end. However, we are supposed to believe his full condonement of a statement after he didn't take a stand in the moment? I don't know, but it seems like this guy always tries to please everyone, which in the end just makes everyone questioning him.

watch the typos, its not "Senstor Obama"

OBAMA 08!!

Sn. Obama is becoming more and more disconnected from the Black community. I'm not a fan of Bernie mac, nor am I suggesting he is on the level of George Carlin, but would he have told the late Carlin to "clean up his act"?

Anyone who has watched Bernie Mac for years would know what his comedy is about. You can not ask for the man to support and introduce, and expect him to be something he is not. This was a error on Obama's campaign, if they want political correctness select someone safe. Allow Bernie to be Bernie, he still has my admiration for being Bernie Mac.

Mac's joke was inappropriate,,,,,,,,now you know you need your but kicked!!!

Can't wait until fitty cent makes his endorsement.

Imus (rightly) lost his job. Will Bernie Mac?

Obama – you were 'just messing with him, man?' Why? This is Presidental quality and backbone?

Come on Bernie! How Can you make those types of Jokes with kids around! He never talked like that on his show! Have you ever heard of Time & Place??? Well Learn it!

Oh Boy and Jessie has the nerve to say Obama talks down to black people??? If things like this happens it's no wonder Obama has to make comments that unknowingly offends some black people! It's because some black people (Don't take out of context plz) know in some way or another they can recognize some traits in themselves. Which goes for ALL the races in the WORLD!!!

Time and Place People, Time and Place...

Obama 08

I seriously can't believe Obama is even this close to the Presidency. I ask that all people read Faith of My Fathers by John McCain and review both of their records. I'm typically an independent voter and I truly believe McCain may end up being the greatest President of all time when elected.

Whatever happened to a little thing called proof reading ? The article cannot really be taken with such a careless mistake. Bernie Mac should just stick to being a comedian, instead of making such a fool of himself when trying to be a public speaker.

This is what happens when we let Canadians run for office.

Mo' nakins, indeed.

A joke is a joke; meant to be taken, as such, I think, "some people"; in this Election process, just need to "chill out". They are too "sensitive", in many instances, and they need to "relax", instead of; "overreacting."

I seem to remember Bush doing a skit where he couldn't find WMDs, while thousands were dying because of the lack of credibility in that premise of WMDs.

But, Bernie Mac told an urban joke in an urban setting where nobody got hurt, and that's a big deal?

Inappropriate, yes, but no where near as inappropriate as lampooning soldiers dying for yours and your pals personal business agenda!!!!!!!

And quite frankly, the racist, vulgar, anti-Obama bumper stickers showing up in Texas are more of a concern – from the party of family values!!!!

Welcome to the world of double-standards that exist within any minority. There are many who believes its ok for members of their own minority group to use racial slurs and inappropriate language about their women, but its a mortal sin for anyone else to use them. I'm surprised he didn't drop the N-bomb too.

That's an old joke... and yes, it IS funny.

Too many people are thin-skinned.

WOW! Amazing how society in part, has gotten so accepting of such poor judgment that this comedian didn't see how dis-tasteful that would be. I used to work in a comedy club, and couldn't believe what people thought was funny. Then I would get up and go to church the next morning. Just wasn't right. And isn't right. Poor Barack for having to figure out an appropriate response to that with literally no time to think about it! Way to go Sen Obama. You are wonderful. Keep up the great thinking on your feet. You have my 100% support.

Jeez. Forget the off-color – Bernie should have been sheep-hooked off the stage just for using that ten-years-ago joke. Plus, either CNN screwed up the quote, or he screwed up the joke – he says to go ask 'your mother and sister'; otherwise the $100k makes no sense.

So, epic fail for Mr. Mac on all counts.

Man, forget Obama. Bernie Mac is an awesome comedian, and Obama shoulda just been honored that he would open for him. Any person of any age that was there has heard worse things in their day-to-day life, I'm sure.

go upstairs sonny and ask mommy if the milk man left her his cream

OK now all the racist people come out and blame Obama..

Thats True Barack , he has to clean up his act when it comes to family matters now. America is one big family and we can't afford to be divided anymore because we are also bring the world together.
One love + One world + Understanding = Peace throught the WORLD.

TO SHINE YOU ALWAYS HAVE TO CLEAN OUT THAT SPOT OF DIRT RIGHT AWAY SO YOU DON'T COME BACK LATER WHEN ITS ATTRACTED MORE DIRT TO YOUR PLATE ......and yes that's why we love you barack you tell it the way it is !! Some think you are flip flopping but we don't because there will always be issues where we "agree to disagree " and vice versa. All in all we sit down and talk about to come up with a solution for change .
Go Barack Obama " Woud Ja Luo"

Guess he had never heard Bernie's comedy before? Kind of like the ol Rev Wright thing....use um till you can abuse um. Obama was once again trying to play both sides and slide down the middle. Of course ask the well known very black comic to speak....that way we will appeal to the African Americans....then when he says something TOTALLY IN CHARACTER AS A COMIC...then slap his wrist and thereby appeal to the worried white voters....see I am strong enough to stand up to my own base...wow I must be so filled with integrity. What a load. This nitwit is so transparent it is mind numbing. How many flip flops? How many broken promises? and how many under the bus tossings will it take for people to see how shallow this guy is? Don't say we didn't tell you. Maybe McCain will select Colin Powell as his running mate....then what will black America do?

Once again, let's watch how many people blame Obama for what *another man said.*

Le'ts see if people can understand the difference between what Obama stands for, and what other independently thinking people say.

Should Obama be condemned for Bernie Mac's joke? No. Obama didn't tell the joke and he likely didn't tell Bernie Mac what to say, either.

I'm glad that Obama and his campaign condemned the joke however. It seemed totally inappropriate for the function they were at.

How about we do something called proof reading, I am not impressed at all with your article when you don't bother to check spelling. As for Bernie Mac, why don't you just stick to comedy, instead of making thoughtless and sexist remarks, as well completely uncalled for given the context of the situation.

This man can't handle a joke, but he is a joke of a candidate.

How many more of these so called friends will Obama throw under the bus.

"Tell me who you are with and I'll tell you who you are."

This low life from Chicago is not presidential material....

I think it’s neat that Barack Obama has friends from so many different communities. The other neat thing is how he’ll throw any and all of them under the bus. It’s like a fun game called, “How politically useful are you to me this week?”

It is not Senator Obama's fault. It happens from time to time when people that are unfamilar with the audience tries to be a little funnier than they should and the wrong thing comes out of their mouth. No harm, no foul. Let is go and move on to more important items.

Sometimes comedy calls for more than knock-knock jokes. People need to toughen up...this election isn't going to be P.C. all the way through November.

I really like Bernie Mac! Screw the entire Obama campaign!!

Bernie Mac's crude, gutter brand of humor has no business at an event like this. Who's dumb idea was it to have him?

It's a shame because his TV show is funny WITHOUT taking the humor to the gutter.

Just more "crap" that is being taken out of contrast!

Bernie Mac should know better. What do you think this is ? COMIC VIEW ? I do nt appreciate the reference to women as ho"s regardless of what setting it is in. I know Obama doesn't condone such statements.

Talk about being on the fence. I still don't know where Obama stands.
Is it a family affair or what? Is he against the "joke" or what?

The Obama haters will have a field day with this one. For the record Obama has spoken in black churches and condemned exactly this kind of disrespect towards women. It is clear that neither candidate (and Hillary too) has control over their "friends". It is so regrettable since we need to discuss the major policy choices facing the country but we will never get there as long as we have to deal with the stupidity of people like Bernie Mac.

Note to Barack: You might want to take another look at those you call "friend".

Good for CNN you have found something on Obama that will take you away from talking about John McBush, he refuses to cut Phil Gramm loose even if he looks down on us little guys(Voters they must remember),John McBush has flip-flopped on when he will balance the budget (by 2013),refused to answer questions on votes for Vets, birth control pills over virgra. But we follow Obama around and make news of anything and any body that supports Obama. Shame, shame on the media. Old white women for OBAMA. Barack Hussein Obama 08

Connie"Hussein"Sturgeon from Indiana

He stole this joke from George Bernard Shaw.
-He addresses a lady of the realm at an official function, and says "Madam, if Igave you a million pounds, would you sleep with me?"
"Certainly", replies
the woman. "Well then", responds Shaw, "would you sleep with me if I gave you a single pound".
"Certainly not! How dare you offer that! What do you take me for?" replies the woman.
"We've already established that" says
Shaw. "We are merely quibbling about the price."

Bernie Mac should know better. An Obama event is different than a stand-up comedy show. I like Bernie Mac but I am disappointed in his timing. Professionals know that there is a time for everything. This is not the right time to be divisive, degrading, and insulting.

Hey, what's with your editors and the constant typos.

In the last quote of the article by Obama's campaign spokeswoman, the word "senator" is spelled "senstor".

In regards to the story, Bernie Mac is a comedian. He tell's jokes. Jokes that aren't politically correct. Isn't this to be expected of him? Does he deserve to be chastised like a child? No...

LAME!

Cmon CNN this is so LAME!!!! This is not news. I'm done with CNN until they start reporting on something substantial...

Talk about being on the fence. I still don't know where Obama stands.
Is it a family affair or what? Is he against the "joke" or what? Hes running for President? Some change he's going to bring.

I don't get the joke?

Lighten up people, it's a hilarious joke.

It was kind of risky letting Bernie Mac do a stand-up routine. A lot of his and other comedians' routines are off-color and inappropriate for that venue. They work fine on HBO where you can turn the channel if you don't like it or are offended. Not that Bernie and others can't do family-friendly comedy but it's not in their normal repertoire so might be more challenging to do it impromptu.

I'm sure this is a lesson learned.

I don't think Hillary should be the VP, and it has nothing to do with vetting. She's not humble and the VP has to be humble. Also, she is not trustworthy, and Obama has to be able to confide in someone he can trust.

I have no worries, most of the Obama supporters don't like her, so she won't be the VP. He will gain votes with Clinton, but he will lose more from his supporters.

No to Hillary for VP

What really troubles me is Barack's response to Bernie Mac and his off- color joke; luke warm at best. I support Obama but questioning if I really know the true Barack.

I have never thought Bernie Mac was funny. He just proved it to a much wider audience.

The Obama campaign said Mac's joke was inappropriate.WRONG PLACE Bernie and you know it......What'S up with you and Jessie

Seems like yet another questionable friend that Obama aligns himself with. I wonder if Obama is really a racist???? All these remarks comes from his close friends and then afterwards he tries to distance himself from them. I am an Obama supporter but I am beginning to wonder on his judgement of people. I won't change sides yet but I am getting the feeling he may not be a person for change for all but will still wait until August to make my final choice

Good for Obama for rebuking Bernie Mac, alot of comedians need to start actually being funny, and stop being crude, and idiotic! Bernie Mac needs to start getting someone to write his joke for him, he is obviously losing it!!!

Your comment is awaiting moderation.

Good job Obama. As a black woman, I don't approve of those statements either. It's fine if you're at the Laugh Factory or some other private club, but not where there are kids and women who might be confused or offended. Sheesh Bernie Mac!

Sorry, didn't get the joke.

DISTASTEFUL

There's a fine line between fundraising and prostitution....Maybe Mac should have substituted "hostesses" for "hos"

I feel Obama's pain. I have a friend that decided to take the microphone during my wedding, he was drunk. In five minutes he made three jokes that were extremely offensive to African-Americans. I took the microphone away from him and apoligized to the crowd. Needless to say, I hardly ever talk to him now, mostly out of respect to my wife, who happens to be African-American.

Bernie Mac? Sounds like Bernie PC to me.

That's all about it with obama. He is striving to make it clean all the way. This is the reason why many black activists, including Jesse Jackson, think he is moralizing when talking about blacks. Barack is right, there is some need to clean up mainly on objectifying black women in clips and movies and foul public jokes.

Bernie Mac joins the likes of Chris Matthews, Andrea Mitchell, David Schuster and many others. It's OK to denigrate women. What kind of mothers did these people have?

More sexism from Campaign Obama. I guess the senator had no idea what kind of "comedy" Mac usually spews. Same way he had no knowledge of Rev. Wright, Bill Ayers, Fr. Pflager, etc.

And by the way did i mention that he is Black ......................

sorry neglected to put on my email address.

Ok, where's the outrage? A white man says hos on the radio and he catches Hades, a black man says hos at a presidential candidates fundraising event and all he gets is a light rebuke and a few jeers? What makes some things ok to say for certain races yet not for others? Some terms should not be spoken by any race.

Imagine the outrage if we tried to have a miss white America pageant or united honky college fund. Racism and prejudices are still alive in this country, and it’s not coming from just one race, it’s coming from many races.

Bernie Mac should be ashamed of himself, and Obama should too for not rebuking him stronger for using such a derogatory term against women!

I suppose that's what Bernie gets for thinking he could tell an off-color joke in front of all those politically correct libs.

I am dissapointed Obama would invite someone such as Bernie Mac for his opening. Even if he wasn't involved in the invitation, he's not in control of his own campaign if that wasn't his wish. We're at a point in this country where a presidental hopefull will have a comical offensive opening. If this is the type of presidency we can expect, and if he cannot control his campaign better than this, how will he control his presidency?

If – and that's an "if" that's getting bigger and bigger to me every day – he does become president, and he's surrounding himself with these kind of people now and apparently in the past, will the same type be advising him when and if he becomes president? Whew!

i kind of feel bad for the dude. We all make mistakes. But is this really "news"

"Senstor Obama told Bernie Mac that he doesn't condone these statements and believes what was said was inappropriate," campaign spokeswoman Jen Psaki said.

What is a Senstor? You are hacks CNN.

"Senstor Obama told Bernie Mac..." I think the editor in this story needs to clean up his/her act.

This is very stupid, to want to censor a comedians jokes, this is Just the type of hipocritical thinking im against, He's against the american people being divided yet his attitude towards language shows one of a Dividing character

CNN-why don't you ever post my comments. Is it because I am addressing the sexism that has been so prevalent in this election cycle?
Is it because I am amazed that the misogyny has just been tolerated, and I am tired of waiting for leaders of the Democratic Party to express their outrage?
Is it because I am not, was not, and never will be pro-Obama?

We need to lighten up, quit walking on egg shells.....

You cannot be serious. Bernie Mac? This apologising for every thing we say that offends someone has gone far to far. Stop getting your panties in a bunch.

The joke was funny, if not a little old, Barrack need to stand up for the people that support him. One of the reasons I will never vote for him.

I am a fan of Bernie Mac, However, his "Joke" was inappropriate. He wasn't at the Apollo!

Here we go again.."This is not the Bernie Mac I know," Obama is saying.....He says," clean up your act", and then he says," I was just messing with you man." Give me a break, I can't believe anything Obama will say....

I just hope this continues the push to clean up pop culture of its tastelessness. So much of it is contaminated with destructive, off-colour, misogynistic (and misandry, too), and hyper-sexual content. There's no way we can heal the old wounds and divisions if this is maintained.

(Now I'm no "Bible-thumper", "Puritan", or "hyper-feminist." I'm just tired of the lack of decency in pop culture these days. It never was this bad years and decades ago.)

And this is the kind of crap you'll get with President Obama!
That was plain and simple STREET TRASH LANGUAGE!
Either you condone it or YOU DON'T.....
None of this " ....by the way.....I'm just messing with you...." garbage.
Obama may be a grown man but he has the morals of an adolescent.
Now go away......

I'm an Obama supporter, but this was not appropriate. I think the campaign planners, or advance team could have done a much better job.

I'm a very very disappointed in Bernie Mac for this joke at such a setting. What an idiot! I'm not giving another dime to him for his movies since he doesn't have better judgement than this. Now I really don't like him.

Senstor ?

Give me a break. All these so-called condemnations coming from Obama directed towards black men in the last few months (Wright, Jackson, and now Bernie Mac for crying out loud) are all intentionally staged and designed to make him look less black to whites in the south and the steal-belt . So transparent.

BO has been playing the race card all along. Idiot dems...picked the wrong candidate again. Now what the hell are we suppose to do?

why do people insist on making things so hard for Obama?

Barack cannot even have a direct statement or take a direct stance on something like this? "By the way, I'm just messing with you, man". Does he condone what Bernie said, does he stand by his own moral convictions, or is he just messing with us man?

Black comedians just love talking about Hos, whethers it is their wives, girlfriends, mothers, sisters, simply states they thinks women are Hos..

What is the opposite of Hos, Pimps Bernie Mac, you just pimped yourself and lost your whole stable... BYE BYE

Obama can't even take a clear stand on something as simple as this?

Obama: Bernie, you've got to clean up your act next time," he said. "This is a family affair. By the way, I'm just messing with you, man."

So which is it? Was Obama "just messing" with Bernie or was he telling the comedian that he would have to clean up his act next time?

What a wishy-washy, spineless POLITICIAN. He doesn't want to allienate either SIDE, so he simply rides the fence. Unwilling to take a stand on something like this...What is he AFRAID of?

I'm still wondering if Obama have any PRINCIPLES.

"Bernie, you've got to clean up your act next time," he said. "This is a family affair. By the way, I'm just messing with you, man."

Is Obama afraid of offending Bernie Mac or something? Don't say your "just messing" with him. Condemn what he said and stop using him for fundraisers. Where's that good judgment your always talking about Obama? So far we're only seeing bad.

Shame on you Bernie.......... The joke was inappropriate!!!!

Geesh. That is horrific in every sense of the word.

And, I'm sure Phil Gramm is going to say some people are whining about the punchline. But that isn't even close to being funny.

Bernie needs to take 3,000 steps back and make amends for that ridiculousness.

what did you expect? It's Bernie Mac?

It's sad that in this day and age, a candidate can't even be seen as a friend of a comedian. Let's all relax a little bit.

How is this news? If there were no stuck-up snobs in the crowd who could not take an 'edgy' joke, this would not be an issue. People freakin' amaze me. Lighten up.

It Probably Would Be Funny In Some In Another Setting! Cant Wait To See How The Mccain Camp Spins This To Make It Seem Like Obama Said It!

Thats a comedians job, to make jokes at everyone elses expense, and sometimes their own........But if you have a comedian speak, you need to let him know who his target audience is, thats the goal of all speakers.......

Stephen Colbert at the white house dinner was hilarious because he knew his audience and all the inside political stuff that made his comedy work for that audience

Oh well, other than that the night sounded good eh? eh?

Well... Although I don't support Obama, I believe he did the right thing here.

Perhaps this is not the Bernie Mac he once knew ? Will that be his excuse this time ?

Talk about a slow day in the news.

Hussein has some questionable friends.

Another Obama friend gaffe. And he called him a great friend, right after denigrating women???

Imagine what its going to be like after Obama is elected and all his supporters can really let their hair down. Most of them are taking their anti-crazy pills right now. I'm scared to see the celebration after this one.

If he can't be firm with bernie mac that he was serious about his criticisim, and bernie mac is no more than a comedian celebrity, then I can't see him as the next president of this country.

This is further proof of Obama's lack of judgement. He surrounds himself with sexists and racists.

Is this really a ticker story????? How are the library being ticketed for have a McCain -Bush sign or Bush saying that climate issues will have to be dealt with the new Pres.?

How tasteless of Mr. Mac. I remember not too long ago when Oprah tried to shove him (Bernie Mac) down her audience's throat as the funniest commedian alive. I still don't understand it.

I am sure that CNN will keep this story alive for a week yet never did mention the article in the LA Times about John and Cindy McCain and "how not to end a first marraige"..............

Why does he have to talk foul at such an event. He should have had Cedric the entertainer instead of Bernie Mac. Just giving black people a bad stereotype.

just another two-bit, cheap reptile who the senator calls friend. i have voted for the democratic party since 1968 when i was first allowed the right to pull the lever. no way will i vote for obama and if he brings hilary the bilary along for the ride i will definitely not vote for them. this is the best my party could advance in so important an election. i thought they learned the lesson with spineless john kerry. now we have a medicine show barker who thinks clowns like iran's president, jeremy wright, and bernie puke are cool. amerika is gettin' what it so well deserves. poor john mccain.

What is it about people in the public eye that they just don't get it? How can they not understand that everything they say will be scrutinized by the public and may reflect badly on themselves, someone that they represent, or both?

Obama needs to stay away from these kinds of people. Oh ya! On your next fund raise please don't forget to invite Dave Chapel.

Now even comedians are under the microscope. What have we become during this election that even comedians jokes are taking too serious. This is just getting out of hand. When you have to start condemning a comedian for a joke then you know you're going to have a hard time winning.

Hey Al Sharpton!!!

Why don't you get his as fired like you did Don Imus for a similar remark?? Of course you won't because he's a bro – right? Who's the racist now??

Is he gonna toss ole Bernie under the bus too? If he does, keep him at the other end or I might have to let him know that I don't understand the "black culture" and misogyny is misogyny whether it's directed to white women or black women & it needs to stop – now................

ALL Hail The Great and Powerful OBAMA. Obama needs to clean up his act what he said: "It's not surprising that they get bitter, that they cling to guns, or religion, or antipathy to people who aren't like them, or anti-immigrant sentiment, or anti-trade sentiment as a way to explain their frustrations." He was not joking when he said this. At least Mac was telling a joke. Obama and His Great foreign leadership he says he will bring. I can not stop laughing he hasn't even gone to Europe yet and they are screaming. Pakistani protesters burn a U.S. flag to condemn Obama's remarks, in Karachi, Pakistan, Friday. and the Germans don't want him. All Hail the Great and Powerful OBAMA

Bernie...Don't call women "HOES"...I am just messing with you..:-)

I have never heard a comedian that could "cleanup" his act for anybody. That's why they are called comedians, but it was inappropriate.

Are people still wondering if there really was sexism in this election cycle?

Do we want a president who will speak one way to one group of people and another way to others? "Hi Hillary...by the way, I'm jusr messing with you, man."

Bernie Mac should have known better. Some people just don't get it. Save those jokes for the clubs or strips.

What an idiot! To go to a campaign event where there may have been young people, and talk like the worst of the street thugs can only hurt Obama. What was he thinking? This is a friend??? I don't care if this is SOP in night clubs...it isn't OK in mainstream America, and hopefully, never will be.

Obama. Always a day late and a dollar short.

that was a great joke. so much for free speech

Seriously, this is extremely offensive, and doesn't inspire me with confidence since this is another one of Obama's "great friends".