September 22, 2008
Posted: 02:00 PM ET
A poll finds a small percentage of voters said they may turn away from Sen. Barack Obama because of his race.
A poll finds a small percentage of voters said they may turn away from Sen. Barack Obama because of his race.

(CNN) — A new study that surveyed racial attitudes suggests that racial prejudices could tip the balance in the coming presidential election.

If there were no racial prejudice among voters, Sen. Barack Obama would receive about 6 percentage points more support, according to an AP-Yahoo News poll, designed in partnership with Stanford University.

The results suggest that 40 percent of white Americans hold at least a partly negative view toward blacks, including more than a third of white Democrats and independents. A small percentage of voters — 2.5 percent of those surveyed — said they may turn away from Obama because of his race.

Though Obama is of mixed race — his mother was white, his father black — he is generally identified as black.

Full story

Filed under: Barack Obama • John McCain • Polls


Byrd   September 22nd, 2008 3:28 pm ET

Why did all those moms that supported Hillary all off a sudden switched to mcain when palin was added to the ticket?? when(1)hilary and obamma views on the country are almost the same and identical, even i thought those 2 would have been a great dream team(2)palins views are completly opposite from hiiary….could it be because of …oh i dont know….RACE

You should have voted for Hillary!!!   September 22nd, 2008 3:28 pm ET

Obama supporters and the news media are why this election is considered "racial." The american people just want what and who are best for this country. We don't give a schitt about what color their skin is. We just want them to be able to lead and get us out of this mess.

WI Cheesehead   September 22nd, 2008 3:28 pm ET

America’s true colors are beginning to show and will be in full bloom this fall and don’t nobody blame Obama. I am not talking about red/white/blue and I am not talking about the autumn colors either. Some have hidden behind so called religious values, others behind freedom of expression but it all point to one thing, hate and we all need to look in the mirror before things get worse.

Smiley from Conyers, GA   September 22nd, 2008 3:28 pm ET

It is a known fact that many whites would never vote for Obama. The only vote a black man is likely to get from these same racist people is MVP of their favorite sport. Most of these people will root for blacks in sports but would hate to see them become powerful leaders outside of the stats. It's pathetic and America is becoming more and more pathetic. America's going broke and all these people can think about is the color of one's skin. They should've left all the black people in Africa and we wouldn't even be discussing this now.

Sweetgreen   September 22nd, 2008 3:28 pm ET

Saying that Obama is receiving 90% of the black vote means absolutely nothing when you compare the fact that all DEMOCRATIC nominees have done just a well. You are comparing apples with apples.

Now if Barack were a Republican and he were getting 90% of the black vote would be an indicator that race is the issue!

The Conservative   September 22nd, 2008 3:28 pm ET

Yap, thanks to "fixnews" and the like. Some media source keep rural america in the dark! This time, young voters will make a difference! The bigots will be surprised!

Obama-Biden '08

BK   September 22nd, 2008 3:28 pm ET

CNN and Obama looking for 'white guilt' votes. It won't work he has no EXPERIENCE!

PA   September 22nd, 2008 3:28 pm ET

Race!, Race!!, Race!!!. Is somebody trying to inject race again? Is somebody trying to remind us that Obama is still a black man? Is somebody trying to remind white Americans that Obama is a black man and they should not vote for him? Get off this mentality, people. We thought America have matured enough beyond this mentality, not to say that some people will not continue to cling to their racial bigotry, but please CNN, we are all surfering this same problem today our current government put us all into and I think should be a better issue to discuss and write about.. We all know that racism is and still remains America's achille's heel. IF race is no longer prevalent now than in the 60's, then this is 2008, hence, race ought not to be a deciding factor.

The world is all watching us!!!

Chickens of Justice   September 22nd, 2008 3:28 pm ET

Obama is to blame for how he behaved towards the base of his own party throughout the primary.

At that time- winning the primary by any means was his goal.

He thought all those democrats he trashed and dismissed would just come back in the end. What choice would they have.

Oh well…..

anotherview   September 22nd, 2008 3:28 pm ET

so, if you vote against BHO you're a racist? Consider the old-time political joke- three candidates run for president of a union local where all but two of the members are of Irish descent (the other 2 are Swedish)…the final tally O'Malley -160 Kelly – 138 Swenson -2
Kelly goes over to congratulate the winner and says "those Swedes are a real clannish lot"

Lindsay   September 22nd, 2008 3:28 pm ET

I remember when this race first began; an overwhelming majority of people said that the US is ready to have a black president or a woman president. Now that it looks like Obama may actually win, people are changing their minds. People are not voting on the issues, they are voting on the person. If we let this presidency go to the lying and conniving McCain and Palin (whose foreign experience is being able to see Russia from her house), we are in a sad state. Whites not voting for Obama because of his race will be showing blacks their true colors and how they really feel about us, and honestly, I will have a different view of whites. Give it up for Obama. He is the best man to run our country.

John, FL   September 22nd, 2008 3:27 pm ET

This guy is AMERICAN, first and foremost.

Say What???   September 22nd, 2008 3:27 pm ET

Anyone surprised by this revelation??

The truth is while only a few will admit publically that they would not vote for a black man (or any other minority), at least half of those that publcally say it's "not an issue" will choose differently once they are in the privacy of thier voting booth.

kathy   September 22nd, 2008 3:27 pm ET

It's a down right dirty shame that in the year 2008 racism is still an issue. Obama is a good man and has plenty to offer. We all have black friends, co-workers, etc that we hold dear. Why can't we have the same point of view when i comes to the president?

Keep America safe, McCain in 08   September 22nd, 2008 3:27 pm ET

Give me a Break.
BO started the race card.
BO is the racist.!!!!!
BO thinks he better then the non Black. and even some BLACKS!!!!
BO is not qualified to lead this country.!
BO ha to much baggage!
BO has to many Dem. in his pockets, thst if he wins it willbe pay back time.
White Black or Green BO is not qualified to lead this countr in war and or peace.
Most White AMerican support many of the Black leadaer, entertainers, etc. so don't fibe me this crap with non blacks being racist. My question is how many non whites ar voting for MCCain?? Thes non white ar voting color not qualifications.

Carol for McCain all the way   September 22nd, 2008 3:26 pm ET

LET'S PAY ATTENTION HERE – tTHE RUSSIANS ARE COMING ! In the NEWS – THE RUSSIANS ARE HEADED FOR VENEZULA for WAR GAMES. Shouldn't WE ( the US of A ) be concerned? These are the MATTERS that ARE IMPORTANT ! This is called NATIONAL SECURITY. The race of the candicate is of least importance. It's his qualifications in handling NATIONAL SECURITY and being able to judge when a situation might become a threat. Listen up people! Talking won't get the boat out of the water !

Gidget Goes To Washington   September 22nd, 2008 3:26 pm ET

Blacks vote as Democrats 90% of the time whether the DEM candidate is male,female,white or black.

We have always been a strong DEM voting block. This is the first time in my life that white people have made such an issue about since Obama is black.

Nobody makes a big deal that 90% blacks supported Kerry,or Gore or Clinton.

My only issue is with the 10% that are not on-board with the right movement!

eric   September 22nd, 2008 3:26 pm ET

How sad for we white Americans. We profess to be the home of the brave and land of the free. We cannot even get over the idea that race has anything to do with one's ability to be a positive member of society and succeed. How sad.

Kel in Auburn, AL   September 22nd, 2008 3:26 pm ET

This is the truth. The sad part about it is that so many Americans are stupid enough to be prejudiced to this degree. Our country has come so far, yet we still have so far to go.

LJ   September 22nd, 2008 3:26 pm ET

Why does the media constantly make an issue of Obama's race? To me he is first and foremost an American man. In fairness, should the McCain's be tagged as white people or Palin a white woman and her husband and children as white people with enough Indian blood to qualify them all for free medical care for life?? The white/black issue is so redundant. Yes, there are people filled with hate for black people but I don't think there are enough of them to make a difference in anyone's life and who cares anyway, are their opinions and feelings more important than the majority of people who don't feel as they do? The media gives people who are prejudiced a thumbs up. Why do they hate black people anyway, the blacks were the slaves and mistreated, not the white people. Report on that why don't you!

American for Obama/Biden   September 22nd, 2008 3:26 pm ET

I'm a white 61 year old female voting for Obama/Biden and proud of it and proud of him.

Why does McCain have 2 people for VP? I guess the same reason Alaska had 2 people for the Governor!

America is doomed with McCain/Palin/and the Dude!

ChICkens coming home to roost   September 22nd, 2008 3:26 pm ET

Maybe the hateful vitriolic war that Obama waged against fellow democrats who voted for HRC in the primary is the reason for this.

I doubt it is racism- but those you trash, bash, mock, demean, insult, jeer, dismiss MAY NOT vote for you in the end.

Even if you are the half black democratic nominee.

Greg in Colorado   September 22nd, 2008 3:26 pm ET

Why is it that we believe every thing that the news media tells us. They have been lying forever about poll numbers and stories being covered, not only in politics but just stories in general. What questions are they asking? where are they asking them and to whom? Who's asking? What are the questions and were they persuasive or yes or no? Remember people 4 out of 5 dentists don't "really" approve Crest… it is just a gimmick.

Obama/Biden 08

Nathan,   September 22nd, 2008 3:26 pm ET

What I find astounding about whites who won't vote for Obama because he's black is that he was probably raised just as white as they were. Obama was raised by the white side of his family in Kansas(what state is whiter than that), in the rural midwest. This isn't a guy who grew up in black culture or in an urban neighborhood which seems to scare a lot of white people. He grew as one of them learning the values they cherish. Which incidently are no different from the values most black people try to instill in their children. This is a guy who except for the tint of his skin has just as much in common wth them than anybody. They look at him now with his black wife and his beautiful black daughters and say that's a black man look at his family. Imagine what they would be saying if he had married a white woman. They wouldn't be saying anything because Obama wouldn't be in this position. This cancer called racism will destroy this nation one day. That day will be sooner if racism allows McBush and Sarah(I can see Russia) Palin tobe voted into office.

Cheryl Wilson   September 22nd, 2008 3:26 pm ET

I agree 100% with this poll. White people are very, very prejudice towards people of color. Most of them hide their prejudice. It is important for people of color to really observe and study white people so that one is aware of how they really think of people of color. This nation will never change. There will always be a segment of society that will hate.

Sweetgreen   September 22nd, 2008 3:26 pm ET

Saying that Obama is receiving 90% of the black vote means absolutely nothing when you compare the fact that all DEMOCRATIC

FAYE MOGHTADER   September 22nd, 2008 3:26 pm ET

WHETER MR OBAMA WINS OR NOT I AM VERY PROUD OF WHAT HE HAS ACCOMPLISHED IN SUCH A SHORT POLITICAL LIFE,A LOT MORE THAN MANY WHO HAVE BEEN THERE FOR THIRTY YEARS.I WILL VOTE FOR HIM I AM PROUD TO SUPPORT HIM,ALL YOU HAVE TO DO WAS TO LISTEN TO HIM ONCE,AND YOU KNOW THAT THIS MAN HAS A GREAT DEAL OF LEADERSHIP QUALITY IN HIM.FOR PEOPLE WHO SEE HIM AS A BLACK MAN I FELL PITY AND SORRY,THAT THEY ARE SO BLINDED BY THE COLOR OF THE SKIN.NOT THE CONTENT OF HIS CHARACTER.I AM A WOMEN.AND 54 TYRS OLD,AND HAVE TWO COLLEGE DEGREES.

KD   September 22nd, 2008 3:26 pm ET

The funny thing is is that if Obama had been "white" he would probably have lost the primary election to Clinton because no democratic primary candidate has ever won 90% of the black vote. Only in the general election do the democrats whin 90% of the black vote. No one screamed racial prejudice than.

JOfromATLforObamaBiden   September 22nd, 2008 3:25 pm ET

BILL ,BILL ,BILL,

BLACK PEOPLE HAVE ALWAYS VOTED FOR A WHITE MAN BECAUSE THAT WAS THE ONLY OPTION..MY HUSBAND IS BLACK AND HE HAS ALWAYS VOTED, AND HE NEVER HESITATED TO DO SO ….THIS TIME AROUND WE HAVE A BLACK MAN, THAT IS THE BEST OPTION FOR AMERICAN..HE HAS A BRAIN…WELL EDUCATED…WHY NOT VOTE FOR HIM..SO ALL OF A SUDDEN BECAUSE WE CHOOSE NOT TO VOTE FOR A WHITE MAN BECAUSE WE DO NOT AGREE WITH HIS POLICIES, WE ARE RACIST.

THERE ARE PEOPLE IN THIS COUNTRY THAT WILL NOT VOTE FOR OBAMA BECAUSE OF HIS RACE…YES, HE IS HALF WHITE AND HALF BLACK..BUT WHITE PEOPLE CHOOSE TO SEE ONLY A BLACK MAN. IT SADDENS ME TO THINK THAT THERE ARE PEOPLE THAT JUDGE YOU BASED ON THE COLOR OF YOUR SKIN.

Susan   September 22nd, 2008 3:25 pm ET

I get tired about hearing about 'race'. We are ALL Americans……….white woman.

Independent Hoosier Voter   September 22nd, 2008 3:25 pm ET

I am soooo tired of this. Did John Kerry lose because of racism? Did Al Gore lose because of racism? Or, do the Democrats keep selecting ultra-liberal candidates who turn off many more voters than they attract? Add to the mix the fact that the current candidate lacks experience and, upon being elected to the Senate, stated he would not run in 2008 because "I'm a believer in knowing what you're doing when you apply for a job." (He doesn't believe he's qualified, but I should?). Further add the fact that the Democrats couldn't run a fair and decent primary–how can they be expected to actually run the country?

And, finally, when am I going to see the polls that demonstrate how the ageism demonstrated by the Obama camp, his followers and the media have affected the Presidential race?

conny   September 22nd, 2008 3:25 pm ET

correction, Sen Mccain blots out anything and this could very well cause a war

victor,nj   September 22nd, 2008 3:25 pm ET

Oahu September 22nd, 2008 2:21 pm ET

Why doesn't anyone talk about how race affects the whites.

Almost 90 percent of blacks vote for Obama and/or blacks, everytime. They don't vote for policy, they vote for color. No one calls this racism. In fact there is much more racism with the blacks than there is with whites, yet no one wants to address this.
Perhaps Jesse Jackson or Al Sharpton can address this.

Please spare me the crap. If that was the case explain why blacks did not vote for Alan Keys. John Kerry also recieved 90% of black vote.

ln   September 22nd, 2008 3:24 pm ET

People who agree with Obama's policies but will not vote for him because of the color of his skin are disguisting. Period. Racism should be an issue of the past… Get a clue, people.

The price to pay   September 22nd, 2008 3:24 pm ET

Obama inspired some real haters and filthy bigots and sexists with his rhetoric.

He swapped the old life-long democrats for these NEW haters.

Will it work or will he lose?

But racism is not the reason for his demise. His dirty campaign tactics are the reason. He subverted the democratic process and the democrats swiftboated their own.

Jim   September 22nd, 2008 3:24 pm ET

I am white and I am ashamed by people in this country. I will say right now that November 4th will be a very sad day for this country as an ugle side of America will shine through. I have little faith that the people in this country will actually vote with their minds. I am a big Obama supporter but will be schocked if we wins. There are so many racist, stupid people in this country, it makes me sick. Wake up!!! If you really care about this country, don't make your decisions based on race.

Anonymous   September 22nd, 2008 3:24 pm ET

Oahu September 22nd, 2008 2:21 pm ET

Why doesn't anyone talk about how race affects the whites.

Almost 90 percent of blacks vote for Obama and/or blacks, everytime. They don't vote for policy, they vote for color.
———————————

As has been said here and elsewhere, blacks vote 90% for DEMOCRATS every time; this 90% for Obama is nothing new.

Overall, I think white people will be o.k.

McCryptKeeper/Cruella 08   September 22nd, 2008 3:24 pm ET

Rednecks could decide this election…..scary

luvamerica   September 22nd, 2008 3:24 pm ET

So sad that people are hung up over the color of your skin.

dyellon md   September 22nd, 2008 3:23 pm ET

When I hear that people who are suffering under this administration, and who like Obama say they can't see themselves voting for him anyway it blows my mind. As J from DC said, it is so sad to see people vote against their own best interests. These are the same people who will complain bitterly when McCAin wins and he gives the wealthiest 1% a tax break and they get nothing but " sorry, you're on your own". These same Republicans might even tell you that they are sorry they voted for McCain and next time they will vote for someone different irregardless of Party. The succcess of the Republican party these last two elections is based on lies and distortions meant to make people afraid of something new. They manage to convince people to VOTE AGAINST THEIR OWN BEST INTERESTS.FOOL ME TWICE SAME ON ME!!!!!!

susarp   September 22nd, 2008 3:23 pm ET

Here's what I can't tolerate any longer . Obama is half white so why do we Americans continue to call him BLACK! Race has no place in our country. We are all Americans no matter what color we are. I'm tired of the small minded people who think they are so much better than any one black man could ever be. I'm ready to leave this country for good. Sarah Palin is a cocky sarcastic politician who has probably sweet talked her way up the ladder.

Spencer from VA   September 22nd, 2008 3:23 pm ET

Race will be a factor to old white voters. Voters between the ages of 18-40, race is not an issue. This is "OUR" election, for "OUR" future.

OBAMA/BIDEN 08

Color Still Matters   September 22nd, 2008 3:23 pm ET

To Bill's remarks above: Thus far, all blacks who have voted in a presidential final election have voted for and supported a white man. And, blacks vote 90% plus of the time for a Democrat anyway. You trying to twist things just show that you got issues with color too.

Candi   September 22nd, 2008 3:22 pm ET

If everyone who think race is important than issues, they will be suprise when McCain reneg on his promises to the people. People vote for the candidate that has been fighting for you since the primaries and have not let up. He is the one that has spoken the same true lines on how we don't need another 4 more years of George Bush. Remember McCain will only be in the White House for one year and then guest what Sarah Palin will be there with no brains and this country will be in a mess. This is not 7,000 people this is 50 states she will have to deal with and I actually don't think she is ready unless 1st DUDE is VP.

Karen   September 22nd, 2008 3:22 pm ET

Of course, race is a deciding factor. I said long ago Obama would not win; he'd never get past that barrier.

African Americans see Republicans as the party of the rich, that's why they always overwhelmingly vote Democratic. How many rich people vote Democratic? Not many, or as one said on tv the other day, why would we not want to keep what we have?

McCain said to his almost all white audience today that he'd lower business taxes and helping immigrants get temporary work, not one word about helping the middle/lower income people, yet everybody cheered. I don't get it.

Truth be told   September 22nd, 2008 3:22 pm ET

Blame the disrespectful and vitriolic campaign that Obama waged against fellow democrats for this damage and division.

Why did he attack HRC and her supporters? Why all the filthy vulgar sexual putdowns and insults? Why the race baiting?

That is the reason he lost support among democrats.

Moderate and Balanced   September 22nd, 2008 3:22 pm ET

CNN is no balanced by any stretch of the imagination. My nephew worked at CNN as a producer and he left because he could not stand the liberal bias there. They have MEETINGS on how to lean left and scewer the Republicans. He took a job that was half his regular pay rather than work for a news network that lied to the people.

Now it's about race. If we don't vote for Obama we're racist. The sad part is…the Democrats really honestly believe that will get people out to vote Democrat.

The liberals are liars and they will never get it that the American people can see through it.

Charles Shaw Liverpool, NY   September 22nd, 2008 3:22 pm ET

Come on folks, both of the major parties are using this as a smoke screen so we do not see the real bias going in our Free country. Folks this is all about the haves and the have nots. The have nots want what the haves have, and the haves want to control the power so to control everyone else's lives to the point of complete socialism. Neither of the two major parties are looking at making the working citizens life better. neither has any plans of cutting spending, neither wants us the voter to go to the polls this fall, they will say, do anything to get elected, and fight each other, with us the people as nothing more than collaterial damge.

PA Voter   September 22nd, 2008 3:22 pm ET

This is OLD news to people of color. We know the world in which we live and deal with it while trying to live the best we can, raise our families, work hard and try to help someone else along the way…..just like most others in America, right. So, regardless of color, race, creed or gender we need to do what's best for our families.

Vote Obama-Biden

Ms Gunn   September 22nd, 2008 3:22 pm ET

truth

acoording to the news..Mccain started to play the race card first! It is called, when you are being beat…spin the topic that everybody needs to hear, and bring up news without substance! PUMA DOWN

prisoner of bore   September 22nd, 2008 3:22 pm ET

Race is only a concern for old America, young America doesn't care. This election is more about the future of this country and not the divisive factors that created it.

guy   September 22nd, 2008 3:21 pm ET

"partly negative view toward blacks"
A nice way of saying RACIST.

obama party,not democrat party   September 22nd, 2008 3:21 pm ET

CNN your poll of polls are laughable, 90% of your bloggers/viewers are pro-Obama, who could ever believe anything cnn puts out,

BOBBY K. FROM BIRMINGHAM, AL.   September 22nd, 2008 3:21 pm ET

All I can say is this "wHITE PEOPLE" ya get what you ask for!!!!
I know cnn won't post this!!!!
Don't be talking angilrly two years from now on why I lost my house or why all my children are in WARS, MY business collapsed, or why gas is $7.00 a gallon, or why I can't afford heALTHCARE, OR REVERSING roe v. wADE or foreighn countries have better education and are smarter then us COUNTRY FOLKS, or WE CAN'T COMPETE IN THE GLOBAL MARKET, OR ALL OUR JOBS ARE BEING OUTSOURCED, OR WE FINALLY BE IN A DEPRESSION BECAUSE OF ALL THE BAILOUTS< OR WHY BIG OIL CORPORATIONS AND CEO'S CONTINUE TO GET RICH or RUSSIA, CHINA, INDIA, AND IRAN ARE LOOKING AT US WITH STUPIDITY!!!! ETC…ETC….. SO go on being trapped in hatred, bigotry, and down right stupidity!!!!!!!
THE WORLD IS WATCHING!!!!!!!!
CNN POST THIS

Kyle   September 22nd, 2008 3:21 pm ET

This is not new news. If Obama were not black he would not have received more than 90% of the black votes during the primary. If race and gender had not been an issue woulld he have received 90% of all votes? It is true that Democrats do receive 90% of the black votes during the general election, but no democratic primary candidate has received such a high percentage during a primary. How many people view Obama as white instead of black, even though he is equally both?

truth please   September 22nd, 2008 3:21 pm ET

So many people are saying that the poll is a joke. I say go to kgo.com look under archives and click on Sunday 2-3 a.m. and listen. There was an elderly woman named Lorraine that will make you want to puke. She starts off by saying she is not a racist then what comes out of her mouth later made me sit up in my bed and say, my God.

By the way she considered herself the spokeswoman for white people that were afraid to say what they really feel.

Ms Gunn   September 22nd, 2008 3:20 pm ET

I listened on the news, and I heard that the K K K was putting aside their differences and voting for Obama! WOW! that is a change, and I want to know CNN, where are you getting this infomation from? I knew a slew of caucasians that said that they were voting for Obama

Worried in NYC   September 22nd, 2008 3:20 pm ET

United We Stand. Divided We Fall. Lets come together for the sake of our country. Before its too late.

so sorry   September 22nd, 2008 3:20 pm ET

I'm sure all those millions of democrats that Obama dismissed as irrelevant and unnecessary for him to win will just forgive and forget the insults and the hate.

i'm sure they will all vote for the candidate who disrespected and derided them.

How smart would that be? Really?

And women… that goes for you too. Why vote for the misogynists who insulted you and called you filthy names? Who took your vote for granted so they spewed their hatred at you JUST to steal the nomination.

McLoser   September 22nd, 2008 3:20 pm ET

It's not black vs. white.

It's green vs. white.

If you would rather lose your jobs, savings, retirement and future (much less your rights as a woman) than vote for a brilliant black man with a PLAN, then you get what you deserve.

Its OK to vote for a black guy, really it is!

democrat in az   September 22nd, 2008 3:19 pm ET

of course its race. too many white people will NOT vote for a black man simply because he is black. but they will never admit it.

Rob   September 22nd, 2008 3:19 pm ET

Well, apparently the AP-Yahoo hack squad is back from Alaska, and, not having found anything, have concocted up this new excuse. They tried to say that Palin's newborn son is actual the daughter's. Then they try saying that Palin missused her office in the firing of some self-serving hack. Neither of these worked, so they decided to dip into the ever present item in every Democrat playbook: When in doubt, throw in the race card. And of course (as wonderfully displayed by these comments here) they know that there are people gullable enough to believe it.

Of course they can't focus on the real issues because Obama doesn't have a plan or strategy other than to say "Change" or blame the Republicans.

Helene   September 22nd, 2008 3:19 pm ET

If people in this country, in the XXIth century, will not vote for someone because of the color of his/her skin, I feel deeply ashamed for them, and for this country. They deserve what they will get with McCain and Palin !

Renee   September 22nd, 2008 3:19 pm ET

Some white Americans need to check thier mental status and start to think that Obama can'nt help that he is Black and know that Obama is the only one that can fix this Financial Crisis that the Bush Adminstration led this country into. Mccain/ Palin is not the ones that will fix this mess and if anyone think that Mccain/Palin will fix this mess is fooling thier selves.

Rick   September 22nd, 2008 3:19 pm ET

Here we go…….they are setting up an excuse for the upcoming Obama loss in the typical democrat fashion. Mark my words, as soon as the polls open on election day the democrats will be whining about "election fraud" and "voter intimidation". You know, same story, different election.

No Game - Work the Refs   September 22nd, 2008 3:19 pm ET

If you don't have a game to bring, work the Refs. The McCain campaign has this down pat. They can't figure out why anyone would want to investigate their vice presidential candidate who is under an gag order from the campaign to prevent her from saying something that expose the the outrageously poor political decision the campaign made in selecting her. They can't figure out why anyone should call them out on their lies. They can't figure out why anyone should call them out on all the bluster that has defined their response to every critical event over the last two months. My Advice, if you want to be president, act presidential – act as though you care at least as much about America as you care about your own ego and stop this "Win at any Cost" mentality. As a country, we are lucky to have George Bush at the reigns with his steady hand during this time of crisis – imagine if it had been John McCain – Or worse, the Northern governor who will not blink when faced with an issue she knows something about.

KATHLEEN   September 22nd, 2008 3:19 pm ET

Ohio, close your eyes and vote for a Black Man. who wants to help you.

Barack Obama needs your vote in Florida.

The Republicans WILL CHEAT TO WIN THIS RACE.

Rove helped choose Palin!

Florida, please talk to your elderly folks about who to vote for.
They have no clue how bad it will get with MCCain Palin!!!!!

NOW, Florida is already accepting absentee votes!!!!!

CNN, is not doing justice for Obama. CNN is ALL FOR MCCAIN PALIN!!!

Michael, watching from Canada   September 22nd, 2008 3:19 pm ET

Its not surprising to the rest of the world.

When he Republican party's racist ads played the rants of Obama's pastor prior to the North Carolina primaries earlier this year……

When right-wing conservative radio hosts continue to make statements that subtly convey Obama incorrectly as a Muslim…..

When newspapers and TV networks highlight election polls about race……

AND THE AMERICAN PUBLIC AND MEDIA DOES NOT GET DISGUSTED WITH THIS PREJUDICE.

Susan   September 22nd, 2008 3:19 pm ET

How sad is this. Grow up America, your lives of your families are at stake! OBAMA/Biden 08!

LS   September 22nd, 2008 3:18 pm ET

Can't say black people are not voting for McCain because he is white. Black people are not voting for McCain because McCain is an idiot, not because he is white.

I am white, and there is no way I would vote for a person like McCain.

Charlotte   September 22nd, 2008 3:18 pm ET

Oh, love the half-black status, as if full black is bad.

Heidi   September 22nd, 2008 3:18 pm ET

That is absolutely the most ridiculous thing I have ever heard. You people that are racial…..GET OVER IT!! This man (regardless of his skin color) is the best thing that could possibly happen to this country. In case you are not paying attention, we are in a lot of trouble. We don't need four more years of Bush's leadership, which is exactly what we will get with McCain. I do agree that McCain used to be a "maverick". But the simple truth is—he's not anymore. He's too old and he can't take our country anywhere but backwards. Please think about the things that really matter when you are voting for a president, and if you have to consider race, remember Obama's mother was caucasian and she raised him.

ATLian   September 22nd, 2008 3:18 pm ET

I'm not voting for McCain because he is a REPUBLICAN!

Bridgette-PA   September 22nd, 2008 3:18 pm ET

CNN, STOP CALLING BARACK "BLACK"! HE IS OF A MIXED-RACE. WHITE AND BLACK. I AM SICK OF THIS CRAP!

OBAMA/BIDEN -08!

Francheska   September 22nd, 2008 3:17 pm ET

If some people chose to vote for PalinCain based on the fact that Obama is African-American, then that is fine and they should not complain when we get the same goverment we have gotten for the past eight years. I don't care if the person has one eye, is green and walks on his hands…if that person can make real changes in my life, then he or she has my vote.

TexRN   September 22nd, 2008 3:17 pm ET

In this day and time, the topic of discuss is so very sad. Everyone wants to quote Martin Luther King's "not the color of their skin, but content of their character" as Americans and take great pride in this, as they should. Then turn around and NOT vote for a person because of the color of thier skin!! Shame on us, shame on America.
America is hurting and this is just the beginning. People not only can't pay their mortgage, they are having a hard time feeding their family, paying utilities, juggling monthly to keep their head above water and our government wants to place 700 billion on their backs to bail out people who have plondered the society.
John McCain is a part of this system, no matter how much he tries to distance himself from his party. He is the Republican party candidate.
I work with people everyday, having a hard time purchasing their medication, even with Medicare Part D. Not able to buy the appropriate food for their disease process, turning off air conditioning to conserve energy.
Please remember, that doing the same expecting a different outcome is insane.
ARE YOU BETTER OFF TODAY THAT YOU WERE 8 YEARS AGO? NO! You have an opportunity to be proactive.

Obama/Biden 08/12

Mike, Raleigh   September 22nd, 2008 3:17 pm ET

I would say 99.9% of African Americans are voting for Barack Hussein Obama African American candidate. Only 40% of whites may vote for John S McCain white candidate. Who is recist?

Division not racism   September 22nd, 2008 3:17 pm ET

Too bad all those ignorant, moronic, old white women and redneck poor white guy democrats who Obama trashed and mocked, ridiculed and demeaned, derided and insulted… will not all just come back now and vote for the nice democratic half black installed nominee.

Reese'-Rich VA   September 22nd, 2008 3:16 pm ET

FINALLY THE TRUTH IS OUT! It is so sad that this is an issue. I hope all the people that vote for Mccain are RICH making over 5 million a year, because he wll take care of you. To all the Americans making less than 250,00/yr WAKE UP AND SMELL THE COFFEE, JUICE OR WHATEVER. Look at the facts and issues and VOTE. I am tired of what this country has BECOME.

Color Still Matters   September 22nd, 2008 3:16 pm ET

Yeah, like all of the Hillary supporters who are now supporting McCain. Most of these folks definately got issues with color, because McCain is not close to Hillary on the issues.

wicth   September 22nd, 2008 3:16 pm ET

It was wrong than and it's wrong now!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I have hope that my grandchildren will grow up and know that skin color should never play a part anymore. But right now it still does.

Reality   September 22nd, 2008 3:16 pm ET

These insecure white people need to get used to the idea that we're all created equal. One race is not above the other. We're all human. Base this election on intelligence, integrity and who will bring this world together to over come all of the serious issues going on in the world today

OBAMA / BIDEN 2008

Obama/Biden 100%   September 22nd, 2008 3:16 pm ET

Only if you are an African-American or Black person, can you fully understand the real sting of prejudiced actions. It's the bible-quoting, bible-toting , bible-thumping "christians" who have the nastiest attitudes against us.

I suggest they get over it and do something to uplift themselves so they won't feel the need to believe they are superior.

My family and I are strong Obama supporters, Democratic supporters, and have been for many years. The fact the Obama happens to be African-American is just that….a fact.

For those who will not vote for him because of race, God bless them.
For the rest of us, we can't wait to cast our votes on November 4th.

Perusing-Through   September 22nd, 2008 3:16 pm ET

.
RACIAL PREJUDICES?? WHY IS THIS A SURPRISE?!?!?!? DUHH!!

When 20% of Hillary voters in the ("diverse") Democratic Primaries of Appalachian regions like Tennessee, Kentucky, West Virginia, Ohio, and Central-Western Pennsylvania, openly admitted to ‘Exit Pollers’ (aka strangers) that Hillary was NOT their preference; but they could not see voting for a Black man – - – - – - then you would think the media pundits would have caught on back in March & April . . . Duhhhh!!!

The media pundits (especially those pundits slanted towards the GOP), tried for so long to ignore the "big elephant" in the room. Now they have to acknowledge that racism, prejudices and ethnic biases still linger in the American culture and are actually playing a significant role in this historic election.

Phantom of the Oprah   September 22nd, 2008 3:15 pm ET

Why would the millions of democrats who Obama hated on and trashed, mocked and demeaned, ridiculed and jeered NOW vote for him?

Obama should have played nice and respected the base. He announced he no longer needed the base- he was bringing in many new democrats to replace the base he openly despised.

The NEW democrats are vitriolic bigoted sexists who do not believe in the democratic process.

Democrats- the OLD democrats- will not permit this highjacking of the democratic process.

That is the truth. Race matters not. Hate and division is the reason Obama lost democrats.

drone   September 22nd, 2008 3:15 pm ET

Of course its a Race is a factor…. Wether you wont to admit it or not, most whites hold a negative perception about blacks, period… And if you have to prep you comment with, im not voting for Obama because of his ideas and not because of his race, FACE iT your a bigot!! Just admit, and people will respect you alot more, instead of being a Lyier!

Tony   September 22nd, 2008 3:15 pm ET

How sad that so many people are still so racist and unable to move forward.

Those not voting for Obama because he looks more black than white know who they are. Often they are the ones who shout the loudest that they are NOT racist. They may say tehy are voting for Obama, but know when they pull that curtain closed, that their racism and hate is more powerful than the best interests of their families, children and their futures.

America continually takes giant leaps backwards while at the same time talking about how progressive they are. SICK!

Outsider   September 22nd, 2008 3:15 pm ET

So US Still thinks it can tell the world what is right and what is not? This guy is both Black and White, he has been raised by White and married to Black. It is sad how people dont recognize Truth even when it is all black and white.

Alton   September 22nd, 2008 3:14 pm ET

As a Democrat, I am ashamed to say that 17% of our party will not vote for Obama because he is black. Most of these people are the elderly in our party that grew up in a racist America.

As for the Republicans, nothing is more threatening to them, especially in the south, than an intelligent Democrat or black man and Obama is both.

12 HOUSES to 0   September 22nd, 2008 3:13 pm ET

I WANT BARACK OBAMA TO WAKE UP GREEN

ONE OF THESE DAYS & I WILL VOTE FOR HIM.

GIVE US A BREAK !!!! WE ARE DESPERATE !!!

Karla   September 22nd, 2008 3:13 pm ET

If people just look at our country as it is today, they should be smart enough to vote for the better man (OBAMA), race should not be an issue. McCain has NO CLUE what its like to work for a living, he'll never need Solcial Security, he IS the elite that most of us will never know. He says Obama is going to raise taxes….his feeble mind can't distinguish the truth from his own lies.
VOTE for the best candidate, don't be a republican robot.
Go Obama-Biden

Fred   September 22nd, 2008 3:13 pm ET

This man is not black. How many times do you have to hear this.
This man is not black. His mother is white, his father is black.
His grandparents who raised him are white. Were in the world does
everyone get the idea this man is black. He can't claim to be an
African American is less he is a black man. Why are all of you calling
Senator Obama black when in fact he is not. How come the black
community stands behind him as a black man. The only thing that
makes him look that way is he picked up his fathers skin pigmentation.
If he where to have picked up his mothers , he would not even be
close to where he is today. So the first black man to be nominated for President is out . No the first black man making history for the nomination is out. Don't compare him to Martin Luther King .
Obama is not black. Was Martin Luther King half white and black?
Yes this is race based on race. And Obama has NO race. He is mixed. Hopefully I have made my point. Wake up people. Please.

Willcnnapprovethis?   September 22nd, 2008 3:13 pm ET

Independent but Leaning:

Pay Attention Genius!

they are talking about Morons who won't vote for Obama soley because of his race.

Nobody from the Obama's campaign ever suggested that you're a racist for not voting for Obama

D. A. Reuter, Bremerton, WA   September 22nd, 2008 3:13 pm ET

I work for civil service and I want Obama/Biden in my chain of command. Do I want McCain/Palin in my chain of command? HELL NO!!

Indiana for McCain/Palin   September 22nd, 2008 3:13 pm ET

Are you kidding me??? A dream ticket would be Colin Powel & Condie Rice. Give me a break, folks. This is not racism, it is a question of ideals; less government, etc., etc. Please stop trying to make this about race!!

McCain/Palin 2008 :)

Todd   September 22nd, 2008 3:13 pm ET

OMG, There are some Democrats and Liberal Independents that are racist??? Are you freakin' kidding me?? I thought it was just the "Old, White Repbulicans"!

Hmmmm, Wonder what else Obama's camp has put out that's not quite 100% accurate!!

Texas   September 22nd, 2008 3:13 pm ET

It is a real shame for America and Americans that we even think on rejecting the best candidate that can get us out of the hole Bush put us because of the color of the skin.

Shame will follow us globally for decades if we made the big mistake of rejecting the best person for the job because he is black.

Haters for Obama   September 22nd, 2008 3:13 pm ET

A democrat who ran a primary war against fellow democrats now wonders why many life long democrats WILL NOT vote for him?

Nothing to do with race. A lot to do with his dirty politics of hate and vitriol and mocking divisiveness.

Intra-party hate is no way to win.

redhead from Toronto   September 22nd, 2008 3:12 pm ET

Sen. Barack Obama is speaking now on the economy in Wisconsin – please read what he has to say . Anyone who reads this speach and still has reservations about him must have ulterior (racist)motives for not voting for him. He is of mixed race with a white mother and grandmother but it should not matter to you what colour he is,vote for what is best for your Country. I cannot believe that the great USA wants more of the last 8 years. Haven't you suffered enough? What's that old saying? Ahhh- " A change is as good as a rest" Give it a try for God's sake, you have nothing else left to lose. BTW, did anyone see 60 mins. last night ? McCain said Sarah Palin is ABSOLUTELY "Ready to be PRESIDENT". I am still in shock,does he want the Presidency so much that he is willing to sell his soul for it?. God bless America and God bless you all.

This soccer mom can whip your hockey mom any day!!!   September 22nd, 2008 3:12 pm ET

Bill

Blacks are not voting for McCain because he is a REPUBLICAN…we are use to voting for a white candidate. African Americans overwhelmingly support the democratic candiidate. If that candidate were Hillary Clinton, she would still have the majority of the black vote!!!!!!

carol   September 22nd, 2008 3:12 pm ET

Yes, I agree this country is still stuck in that "white at all cost" regardless that this smart,intelligent young man could really move this country forward in the right direction.
I am still very hopeful though that the younger generation who apparently have more sense will come out in droves in Nov to vote for Senator Obama.
Why can't people be judged on their character and not by the colour of their skin……this country in in one hell of a mess and someone skins colour determines how you'll vote…..how very very sad.
I am a 56 year old white lady who lives in Florida and I can think for myself and look at the issues which far outway any nonsensical colour issue.
GO OBAMA/BIDEN 08

Mike, FL   September 22nd, 2008 3:12 pm ET

I think for the most part we have moved past racism in the country. I'll vote against their pocket book just because of race.

Edward   September 22nd, 2008 3:12 pm ET

Good point Claire, Vermont!

Herbieboy   September 22nd, 2008 3:11 pm ET

Until people in our country come to the point that in GOD'S sight are all created equal we will continue to have devide. It doesn't metter if the color of a person'd skin is red, orange, bule, balck, or white everyone has red blood runing thru their veins. If we want to continue to have the problems we are facing then race should be your deciding factor, but if you want change and have inteligent thinking men in the white haouse then you will support Obama and Biden. If you want the same old thing that has been there for the last eight years – lies, secrecy, big oil, lack of cooperation, skirting the issues, and put themselves before the average person in this country then vote for McSame/ Pain-in and suffer fro the the next 4 years.

jwn in south carolina   September 22nd, 2008 3:11 pm ET

I am choosing the brainy guy over dumb and dumber. I don't care what color Mr. Obama is, he has the vote of all who hope and look for a better future for our country.

This message is from a 70 year old white grandmother orginally from south Mississippi………………and by the way all of our family supports Mr. Obama.

Something to think about……SINCE the primary elections SC has registered 196,000 new voters,,,,,,,,,mostly young……and for the most part they will not vote for the old wrinkly white man.

All of you who can, work to get out the vote for Barack Obama! YOU can make a difference.

newsnut   September 22nd, 2008 3:11 pm ET

Watch the Body language of Mr. McCain and B.H.Obama. Mr. McCain appears to to be asking a People for attention. Now look at B.H.Obama's body language. He looks like Adolf Hitler when he spoke to the Germans. Lashing his words out. A weapon at his side or sword would fit in to his appearance. This person is going to hurt somebody.

Charlotte   September 22nd, 2008 3:11 pm ET

You have an incompetent candidate who is also Black, you bet it will play. It is a factor with some and you add the lack of experience and bingo, you have a loser.

Kellie NH   September 22nd, 2008 3:11 pm ET

"Truth" I can't wait for the debates either, it will be Kennedy/Nixon all over again, only better.

Anyway..there is no need to worry. The surge in Afrcan American voters will do more than just cancel out the ignorant people who won't vote for Obama because he's black.

Here's My Thoughts   September 22nd, 2008 3:11 pm ET

And another,

Claire makes a good point! Obama is a democrat too. He's young, married to a black woman (takes some research to understand how this factors in too), and he's new.

You have got to give it to him: He's pretty attractive to Black people, especially the ones I know.

Trashing for votes   September 22nd, 2008 3:11 pm ET

If Obama had not attacked fellow democrats and derided them and belittled them- he would now have their support.

Obama played dirty to win- he encouraged his devotees to hate HRC, her supporters, women and low income democrats.

How silly that now he expects their vote- and if they don't vote for him, they are called racist.

Obama divided the democratic party by age, gender, income, education and geography- not to mention by race- NOW HE PAYS THE PRICE FOR THAT VITRIOLIC STRATEGY.

It got his installed as nominee- but not everyone will come back and vote for him JUST because he is a democratic nominee. Some will not vote for the candidate that disrespected them and trashed them.

Proud to be American   September 22nd, 2008 3:11 pm ET

Racial bias is what it is and there is really not much to be said about it… however, I think with the current situation we are in folks will let go of their bias ways and vote for change… I mean if they want four more years of the same then they will vote for McCain and the out come of America will be exactly what is deserved… when you don't have a job, house, a woman can't make a choice in regards to her body and when we start pledging allegiance to the United States of China… one will wish they voted on the issues…. I do have faith in American and hopeful that American's have enough sense to vote smartly…

Obama & Biden 2008

Perusing-Through   September 22nd, 2008 3:11 pm ET

DUHH!! WHY IS THIS A SURPRISE?!?!?!?

When 20% of Hillary voters in the ("diverse") Democratic Primaries of Appalachian regions like Tennessee, Kentucky, West Virginia, Ohio, and Central-Western Pennsylvania, openly admit that Hillary was NOT their preference; but they could not see voting for a Black man – - – - – - then you would think the media pundits would have caught on back in March & April . . . Duhhhh!!!

The media pundits (especially those pundits slanted towards the GOP), tried for so long to ignore the "big elephant" in the room. Now they have to acknowledge that racism, prejudices and ethnic biases still linger in the American culture and are actually playing a significant role in this historic election.

Florida for Obama   September 22nd, 2008 3:11 pm ET

Wouldn't this be ironic? That the only disqualification for Obama would be race – race again in America? American has notmatured yet? Upon all the thinhs America clains to have achieved race-wise, that the 2008 Presidential election may still be decided by the "Cokor of our skin"? What then has America learned from the famous MLK "I have a dream" speech. It would be a sad day in America that Barack Obama would lose an election because of the "color of his skin" and no longer by his – a black man's propensity and ability to lead!

A NATION OF WINERS   September 22nd, 2008 3:11 pm ET

THE BLACK COMMUNITY VOTES DEMOCRATIC

A 100% OF THE TIME. HOW IS THAT NEWS ??

I VOTE DEMOCRATIC A 100% OF THE TIME,

I AM DEFINITELY NOT BLACK. AM I RACIST ?

ONE THING SOME OF YOU FORGET IS THAT

US WHITE FOLKS HAVE A SHARE OF THIS MAN.

FIRST HE IS AN AMERICAN. THEN HE IS WHITE & BLACK.

THEN TO MAKE IT ALL GOOD HE IS HONEST & SMART.

LETS NOT BE STUPID. WE HAVE TRIED THAT FOR 8 YEARS

AND IT HAS NOT WORKED WELL FOR US AT ALL.

Gerald in Georgia   September 22nd, 2008 3:11 pm ET

I am a black male who is voting for Obama because I don't want to lose my job and my house!! Maybe McCain and his friends can afford to lose a house or two but my wife and kids, we only have one! One house means one smart vote.

OBAMA/BIDEN 08

Cynthia   September 22nd, 2008 3:10 pm ET

I always felt that it would and its really a shame. African Americans have been voting for white candidates every since they were given to right to vote. I don't see why others would have a problem voting for an African American.

cheryl (RETIRED VETS FOR OBAMA)   September 22nd, 2008 3:10 pm ET

REMEMBER AMERICA, IF IT IS THE WILL OF GOD FOR OBAMA TO BE PRESIDENT, IT WILL BE, THERE WILL BE NOTHING THAT ANYONE CAN DO TO STOP IT. GOD BLESS AMERICA! BY THE WAY ARE YOU FINE AMERICANS PAYING ATTENTION TO RUSSIA, THEY HAVE A FLEET OF WARSHIPS HEADED TO VENEZUELA, IN MY OPINION THIS IS TOO CLOSE FOR COMFORT, REVIEW YOUR WORLD MAPS, IT IS TRUE THE RUSSIANS ARE COMING.

D in Virginia   September 22nd, 2008 3:10 pm ET

What's new? America has been and will always be a racist nation. Yet somehow they believe they are the example the world is supposed to follow.

The bright side of the story is that most claim not to let race affect their decisions. If Louisiana can have an Indian governor, there is hope.

geecee827   September 22nd, 2008 3:10 pm ET

No surprise here. Obama would be way ahead in the polls if he weren't identified as black. He is so much more intelligent and thoughtful in his answers to questions posed to him, he is more sincere, doesn't pander, just tells the people what they need to hear, not what they want to hear. He's by far the better candidate. If he and Biden lose, it's because of Obama's race, make no mistake about it.

Obama/Biden ' 08/'12.

Edward   September 22nd, 2008 3:10 pm ET

Weak argument Bill!!!!!! Blacks have had no choice but to vote for a white candidtate until now!

Doris,Memphis, TN   September 22nd, 2008 3:10 pm ET

Obama and Biden are by far the superior candidates. I feel that Americans are going to get this election right, this time.

ted   September 22nd, 2008 3:09 pm ET

This is the country so many of us have died for.. ashame. and the hole world takes polls and they chose O>B> 70% to McCain. how come America cant get it right. our time is coming if we screw this one up. You get what u deserve

Mike G   September 22nd, 2008 3:09 pm ET

There is only 1 color that matters in this election. GREEN!! Personally, I'm extremely racist and biased when it comes to that color. Once everyone makes that issue the primary 1 as it should be, then everything will be easy.
Some of us may need to ask oursleves these questions in november: If you have more to say about the person that you don't plan on voting for then why waste time going to the polls? Can you look your children in the eyes and tell them that you didn't vote for someone because of their race???

Rebecca   September 22nd, 2008 3:09 pm ET

When all else fails, race bait. Everytime the democrats pull ahead in
the polls, republicans with the help of the media always try to appeal
to America's least common denominator, racism. I would be willing to
bet that just like the primaries, people of ALL races won't be voting race, but to get the republicans out. They have done damaged to all of us.

Dems 08

rodlang   September 22nd, 2008 3:09 pm ET

Apparently, some white democrats won't vote for Obama because he's of mixed racial heritage. So, some democrats are racist. Also, the liberal MSM/Obama campaign are playing the race card (even though Obama said he wouldn't to there).

sabdra   September 22nd, 2008 3:08 pm ET

I am African American. Be encouraged! It shows great progress in race relations for him to even be nominated. He is the first AFRICAN-AMERICAN who will become president and will do a great job during his TWO terms. Thereafter, race will not be such a significant factor, because the country will know the blacks can handle the job as well as whites. HE WILL WIN THE ELECTON.

OBAMA/BIDEN 08

Say It Loud ....   September 22nd, 2008 3:08 pm ET

There is no such thing as "bi-racial" to a bigot.

You see, in American, an ounce of black blood made you black … it made you subject to being treated differently … poorly … as compared to the white majority.

Those half-white children of the black woman fathered by the slave master rapist were denied the right to read, write, go to school, get bank loans, form businesses or succeed in capitalistic American just like their 100% black relatives picking cotton in the fields. America, which is money driven, is still dealing with the impacts on those people who were artificially held down by a system that lauded "white priveledge."

Now that someone with black blood in them (Senator Obama) has out manuevered the systemic racial hurdles in our society, and is about to ascend to the Presidency, should his "blackness" now be diminished ?? No, it should not.

Heck, my great grandfather was white and I'm black and proud of it. I'm a senior executive in dorporate america with an ivy league education. I will not dessert my blackness just because I am successful … neither will Barack.

Pat F   September 22nd, 2008 3:08 pm ET

This is a non-story.

I don't believe for one minute anyone who says that they agree with everything Obama says but would not vote for him because he's Black. Such a person would NEVER have voted for a white person with the same extreme liberal ideas.

The break is along ideological lines – not race lines. Don't believe the hype.

Eric-29-m-PA   September 22nd, 2008 3:08 pm ET

I'm sure some will use race to vote against Obama while others will use it to vote for him. I'm white, a Democrat and I'm voting for McCain not because of his race, but because of the way the primaries were run, his links to shady characters and his lack of experience.

This soccer mom can whip your hockey mom any day!!!   September 22nd, 2008 3:08 pm ET

Thank you for pointing out the obvious. If this is news to anyone, then they obviously did not grow up in this racially charged and divided country!!!! Some how…someone will find a way to say that this is put out by Obama's campaign, and he is playing the race card! I would dare to say the percentages are even higher. Racial, and ethnic ignorance is STILL reigning supreme all over this country!!!!!!

Here's My Thoughts   September 22nd, 2008 3:08 pm ET

He is also WINNING because of race. Ask many blacks why they are voting for him, and they will give you some hap-hazard comment about him "making the economy better," but they will not be able to give you his stance on issues.

Yet, to a certain extent I can understand why African Americans are voting for him because he is black and it is justified; however, there is no justification in not voting for him because he is black.

Unfortunately, to explain my position takes an entire research paper, which one can not post on CNN.

So here's the thesis: America needs to be revamped mentally regarding race.

May God bless and have mercy on all of you!

Paris   September 22nd, 2008 3:08 pm ET

What about all the Black votes that Obama is secured to get.

When discussing the race issue you need to discuss both end of the race and not only one.

We can also look at it this way, 98% of blacks are not voting for John McCain because he is white and running against a black candidate.

(zero)bama   September 22nd, 2008 3:08 pm ET

Race is a cop out. Period.

Race has nothing to do with my refusal to vote for Obama. i won't vote for Obama for the same reason I wouldn't have voted for Stalin, Lenin or Marx. A socialist has no purpose running this country.

Then again, with the lovely tax-payer-funded bailouts to cover government ignorance and corporate stupidity, what the hell am I talking about? We're already a socialist nation.

Washington bureaucrats (Dem and Repub), if this bailout goes through, get ready to be met at the castle gates by a horde of angry torch- and pitchfork-wielding tax-payers, looking to kill the beast and its creator.

Jerry Ohio   September 22nd, 2008 3:08 pm ET

My friends live in London and they tell me if Obama loses the election the World going to look at America like a racism country to live in and they are telling the true because this country is racism and I hope people dont look at Obama becuase of his skin color look at him because he can bring changes to our country let show my friends and the world that America is not a racism country to live in go out and vote for Obama

Obama/Biden 08

janet, ohio   September 22nd, 2008 3:08 pm ET

Let's make a deal: I will accept the fact that blacks are voting for Obama based on his ideas, if you will accept the fact that I am voting for Palin based on her ideas. Okay?

ben   September 22nd, 2008 3:08 pm ET

I just sent in my 2nd contribution this month to the Obama Campaign.
Wasn't a real large amount, but what I could afford in these tough times. I truly hope there are more voters who will put America and its future first when voting and not fall victim to this race stuff.
OBAMA/BIDEN for 08.

A house divided   September 22nd, 2008 3:08 pm ET

Obama gambled and incited intra-party division and vitriol.

He labeled HRC a racist.

He insulted, mocked and jeered fellow democrats.

The self-proclaimed uniter inspired division and vitriol in his followers.

IT IS THE INTRA-PARTY VITRIOL that turned democrats OFF to Obama.

Obama has only himself to blame for playing the race-card and dividing the party for his personal gain.

Maureen / Calif.   September 22nd, 2008 3:08 pm ET

There will always be losers that judge people based on their race, religion, or gender. But obviously there are enough good people in America that voted to nominate Obama for President. Obama is leading this race. And the polls that determine this do not include millions of young and minority followers who do not have land line phones, only cell phones. Maybe all of the Archie Bunker types will move out of the country when Obama is elected. We can only hope. Our country would be a much better place.

Florida Voter   September 22nd, 2008 3:07 pm ET

Illegal Aliens will make up for the difference.

And McCain is more for them than Obama….

I know How It Is   September 22nd, 2008 3:07 pm ET

To say he played the race card is crazy. Bill started it SC and HRC highlighted it in Pa. Its kind of funny. Whenever a black person responds to a potentially racial remark or act they are branded for reverse racism or "playing the race card". I really thought that the country was begining to put this issue to bed for good. I'm not just saying this because I want people to vote one way. I think voting for or againtst someone because of race is stupid. I'm just saying I know how it feels to do all the right things in trying to acheive the American Dream and still be looked down on because your're black and when you comment on something you see or hear or give your opinion from a black person's point of view you're are "branded".

One more thing for all of the Hillary voters thats voting for McCain so they can vote for her in 2012. What happens if she doesn't run in 2012? Just something to think about. Don't vote for you, vote for your children and gradchildren.

A man can dare to hope right.

TerryDoRight   September 22nd, 2008 3:07 pm ET

Race will play a big part in the general election!

Gee, could it be because Obama does not stop playing the race card?

He is playing the race card, for those guilty white liberals who think they owe A/A some sort of restitution. That is their problem not the rest of Americans.

TruthBeTold   September 22nd, 2008 3:07 pm ET

Your all braindead….Theres way more blacks that are voting for Obama because he is black than there are whites who wont vote for him cuz hes black….and to all you people who say blacks vote democrat….they have no choice but to pick a white candidate when a race is between two whites…and democrats support welfare which many blacks live on….i swear ppl cmon…use your heads!!!

Faith in Obama   September 22nd, 2008 3:07 pm ET

Shame on you Americans! Our deficit is in the BILLIONS and you would rather vote for another Republican! Ignorance will not get you anywhere….Wise up PEOPLE!

Obama/Biden 08.

Whiskey Tango Foxtrot   September 22nd, 2008 3:07 pm ET

I was raised in the deep south and I have witnessed more than my fair share of racism. I do ,however, feel that the pool of close-minded fools is shrinking and racism is SLOWLY fading. When people realize that the color of one's skin is not the measure of a man, our country will once again be valued as a world leader.

Shannon   September 22nd, 2008 3:07 pm ET

that's right, according to Obama and his pathetic supporters, if you won't vote for him, you're racist. It doesn't matter that he supported FISA, the Cheney Energy Bill, he demeans women, he flip flopped on public financing, the surge, drilling, faith based initiatives, he played the race card with Hillary Clinton, he comes from a hate filled racist church, he took more money from Fannie Mae than any other Senator except Chris Dodd. He had the highest absentee record in the senate. He voted present eight times on issues pertaining to a woman's right to choose. He spouts hope and change and than lies in his adds. The man is a complete phony, but hey, I guess it's just easier to call people who actually know the issues racist. It shows such a lack of intelligence, and certainly a huge inability to take responsibility for your own problems. Keep whining about race Obama, it's such a turnoff! CNN is so in the tank for Obama, they seldom print e-mails with facts in them, that show Obama for what he is, an empty suit!

Issues Voter   September 22nd, 2008 3:06 pm ET

The sad state of our economy, 2 wars, loss of respect around the world, millions of americans without healthcare, and millions of homes in foreclosure, should be enough of an endictment of the past nearly 8 years of republican policies for voters to overcome their petty racism!! JUST GET OVER IT …… MOVE FORWARD WITH THE REST OF THE COUNTRY….. vote for the good of the country and the future of your family. John McCain may have been a "maverick" someitme in the past, but now that he is running for president, it's obvious he is no longer his own man…..so, if elected, do not expect him to be "reforming" anything. $700+ bil bailout with no oversight?? Are you kidding me?? The choice this year could not be more clear…vote for the smart guy!! Obama/Biden 08

Andy - Atlanta, GA   September 22nd, 2008 3:06 pm ET

I loved how John Edwards firmly said in a debate, that if you are voting for me simply because I'm a white man I DO NOT WANT YOUR VOTE. I believe Hillary & Obama have repeatedly made similar statements against voting along racial/gender lines.

For once, it would be nice to see McCain or Palin make a similar statement. Wishful thinking I guess…

They're more about… oh look! I'm a mum! are you a mum? vote for me! …or…oh look I'm a POW! do you love your country? vote for me! we're the right color/religion/gender etc… vote for us!

…sad, but even sadder that it works.

Honestlady   September 22nd, 2008 3:06 pm ET

@Dan….come on over and vote for Obama. Yes, he's liberal…but i don't see that as a bad thing!! Do you want more of the same with McCain?

VIRGINIA will be blue   September 22nd, 2008 3:06 pm ET

Of course race will play a factor to older white Americans. But Americans between the ages of 18-40 look at race as a thing of the past. This is "OUR" election.

OBAMA/BIDEN 08

Ian   September 22nd, 2008 3:06 pm ET

Just for the record I don't like Obama because he has no plans for the financial crisis that we face. Neither does John McCain for that matter.

Third Party '08

George   September 22nd, 2008 3:06 pm ET

What drives me crazy is that Obama’s white supporters didn’t know that one-third of white Democrats harbor negative views toward blacks – many calling them "lazy," "violent," – when they picked him over Clinton in the primaries. Clearly, the university students and upper crust, white, elite, Obama fans have never been on the factory floor, or in a blue collar neighbor bar where this kind of bigot is very open about hating blacks.

From what I’m reading here they still don’t get it – Obama needs to be about 6 points ahead of McCain just to offset the Bradley effect.

Tremend18   September 22nd, 2008 3:06 pm ET

and this is surprising news?

Xavier, Saint Louis, Missouri   September 22nd, 2008 3:05 pm ET

Tell me something that I don't all ready know. These same people who are so racist that they won't vote for Obama are probably the same ones who are unemployed, so broke that they can't pay attention, and probably voted for BUSH. But that's okay; continue to vote for race instead of logic. I hope you suffer so much that your heads fall off!

Unity   September 22nd, 2008 3:05 pm ET

It has nothing to do with racism.

Obama lost much of his own party during the primary- he proclaimed himself a uniter but then proceeded to attack, belittle, mock and ridicule fellow democrats.

He attacked HRC and ALL her supporters.

It is hard to imagine that people expect all the democrats Obama jeered and ridiculed and demeaned would ultimately vote for him.

RC   September 22nd, 2008 3:05 pm ET

This has to one of the most backward, unevolved countries on the palnet. And I am a white male country boy.

Rob B.   September 22nd, 2008 3:05 pm ET

I really have more faith in this country. I'm from Gen X. Both my folks are black and they always taught me to not judge people on color. My mom's best friend even though we lived in the city was a white girl who latter married my mom's brother and gave birth to my cousin. I just refuse to believe this country is controled by bigots. The Universe is not so poorly designed. Yes there are people in this country that won' for vote for Obama cause he's black. That's just how it is. But folks when people say Obama is a movement. To Gen Xer's who aren't bound by bigotry or raised in that inverment. This is our JFK. The more people use his color as a excuse the more I hear everyone of every race deal in to support him more. Obama is a movement ladies and gentlemen.

no brainer!   September 22nd, 2008 3:05 pm ET

if those white idiots,

after voting for bush twice,

can't vote for obama,

what else,

other than their racism,

would explain their decision?

No Hillary = No Obama   September 22nd, 2008 3:04 pm ET

How ironic – CNN and other outlets have bent over backwards to give him the advantage because he's Black with special shows such as Race in America – What about Gender in America? We never saw that show did we?? You can lead a horse to water, but you can't make him drink -

Honestlady   September 22nd, 2008 3:04 pm ET

@Bill who said….."What percentage of blacks are not voting for McCain because he's white? Could this also be construed as racist?"

You would have a point if blacks didn't have a history of voting 90% democratic….in which the presidential nominees have been WHITE 100% of the time!!!!

Matt in Pittsburgh   September 22nd, 2008 3:04 pm ET

I agree that racism will play a part in this year's election. Consider that over 95% of blacks will vote for Obama, many just because the man is black. That is racism.

Sylvia   September 22nd, 2008 3:03 pm ET

I am a woman, white and over 65. I would never ever vote for McCain or the political gimmick he chose to boost his campaign. If race is what is holding the Democratic campaign back then that in my opinion would be terribly wrong. I believe that Obama is exceedingly presidential and he is very capable of bringing respect back to the country. America could be great and looked up to again, please please don't make the mistake of judging a person by the colour of his skin.

Carol for McCain all the way   September 22nd, 2008 3:03 pm ET

OBAMA SET THE TONE – BY CLAIMING TO BE "BLACK" NOT AN AMERICAN CANDIDATE OF – MIXED RACE. Had he chosen to be like most american voters who's heritages are from "the melting" pot he might have avoided the stereo typy as a BLACK CANDIDATE. Hillary was stereo typed, but SHE WAS A WOMAN, just trashed by the media for being that ! Obama also doesn't have the EXPERIENCE needed to say he has the credentials for this JOB. John McCain has not only the credentials in ALL aspects of the JOB applications, but he's a PROUD CHRISTIAN AMERICAN with AMERICAN VALUES !

David, Silver Spring, MD   September 22nd, 2008 3:03 pm ET

I don't care that Obama's dad was from Africa, any more than I care that John McCain was born in Panama.

I just remember back when the economy turned sour when Bush got in office. Rather than using the surplus to hire people to fix roads and bridges, thereby making an investment in the country; Bush and the Republicans pushed through tax cuts for businesses to use however they pleased.

Seven years later and the economy is still in the tank and the roads are still bad.

I don't care about race; I care about competence. That's why I'm supporting the Democrat, Barack Obama.

California Gold   September 22nd, 2008 3:03 pm ET

McCain is still unqualified for office. Obama brings everything we need to the table and he will have my vote. He is also left handed, which I'm sure will be of some crucially significant unrelated matter to some poor slob.

Ron from Baltimore   September 22nd, 2008 3:02 pm ET

And to think, Lincoln was a Republican.

Now his idealist descendants are using apparent push-poll tactics and related shameful practices to "remind" people about Senator Obama is not really "like us." Not Black enough, Not White enough—-just right!

Ken in Dallas   September 22nd, 2008 3:02 pm ET

Available evidence indicates that the estimate that 40% of the American electorate will base their votes on emotionalism is overly optimistic.

McCain's whole election strategy is based on the idea of locking in the voters who vote their emotions instead of using their heads. This is the same strategy that won twice for Bush. It's something to really worry about.

It would really be a great service to ourselves and our posterity to start using our heads for a change, though.

Praetorian, Fort Myers   September 22nd, 2008 3:01 pm ET

With the trillion bail-out, 8 years of Bush, 8 years of Clinton antics, I look at the past 16 years as horrendous. One thing I've lost is faith that our elected officials are even listening to us–much less accomplishing anything.

Now we are in crisis management mode–to prevent having to extend the house session–and stem the invisible economic bleeding on Wall Street. No debate…most Americans are outright against the plan (because they won't have an opportunity for any review or input before it's the law), and the remainder or dubious of it's benefit.

Can anybody tell me how to UN-REGISTER to vote!!!

offwallst   September 22nd, 2008 3:01 pm ET

95% of blacks are voting for obama….so whites are racist!!!!!!!!!!!!!

noone   September 22nd, 2008 3:01 pm ET

why? barack has a little of all of us in his heart.

Anonymous   September 22nd, 2008 3:01 pm ET

Go McCain!… go to Iraq and finish the battle, oh yea and take the economy with you, to war, hell we don't need it, you can be commander and take over where Bush will leave off, I don't think you'll be as great as Bush was, but your war story brings you close enough. So go join Palin's son and fight, we'll be here waiting on your victory. You've got my vote, forget the economy, forget those devasted by hurricane Ike, whatever you decide don't consider us. keep unemployment up, I'm getting comfortable with these unemployment checks, after this tax season and insurance payday, you can have my house as well, after they foreclose on it, add it to your collection, turn my 4 year old daughter's room into a, uh, I guess a jewelry room, or closet to house you car keys. I'm voting for you because your white, a war veteran, and highly educated in all areas, forget what people think of you. Your a hero in my eyes.

I am Jude and I approve this message… (in the most sarcastic tone)

Florida Hockey Mom   September 22nd, 2008 3:01 pm ET

It's funny how Brandon and his little Demo Friends fell that throwing money at a problem fixes the problem. Barack doesn't have a money problem. His problem is he's a Jr. Sen. Pelosi, Clinton, Dodd and the established DNC upper crust will never let Barack do anything from his "Yes We Can" speeches. Barack is all show, no demo go!!

Gov Palin, What Are Your Foreign Policy Credentials?   September 22nd, 2008 3:01 pm ET

THIS MAY BE TRUE, BUT WE ARE IN A VERY DIFFERENT PLACE DUE TO THIS ELECTION. I KNOW THERE ARE FELLOW AMERICANS WHO COULD BENEFIT FROM EXPLORING THE COUNTRY THEY SAY THEY "LOVE" (ONLY IF A CERTAIN GROUP RUNS IT), BUT THIS ELECTION YEAR WILL BE DIFFERENT.

I HAVE NEVER SEEN WHITE AMERICA RESPOND IN THIS WAY TOWARD A BLACK PERSON IN MY LIFE OUTSIDE OF A SPORTS HERO. IT IS SHOCKING, ENDEARING AND BRINGS ME TO TEARS.

SOMETHING HAS ALREADY CHANGED. AS OBAMA SAID IN HIS ACCEPTANCE SPEECH " THERE'S NO TURNING BACK"…

NO MATTER THE OUTCOME WE HAVE BEEN FOREVER CHANGED.

GO OBAMA

D&D   September 22nd, 2008 3:00 pm ET

Yes, race is going to play a role, but I also think that American people are smarter than that; while some will think not voting for Obama because he's black, for some reasons, I strongly believe that most of them will make the right call by voting for him anyway!

Yvonne   September 22nd, 2008 3:00 pm ET

Racists have a low IQ. Maybe if voters are required to take an IQ test then we can prevent stupid people from voting.

Jesse from Berlin   September 22nd, 2008 3:00 pm ET

How stupid can one be?….

noone   September 22nd, 2008 3:00 pm ET

i'm ashamed of my own race…….

Paula, Los Angeles CA   September 22nd, 2008 2:59 pm ET

Obama will have to endure some idiots who will not vote for him because of race… we knew that. However, that is one of the most wonderful factors in this election: the potential of moving forward on multiple fronts!

Obama must win for the sake of America! I am very discouraged about our economic situation and the blatant disregard for the American people when up against the almighty dollar. Pretty funny that the American people will be forced to pay for Wall Street's missteps in this time of crisis, but in a time of prosperity, we do not see any of those profits handed down to us… SOCIALIZE LOSS AND PRIVATIZE PROFITS?!?!?! Not the American way….

OBAMA/BIDEN '08!

Mrs.L   September 22nd, 2008 2:59 pm ET

I find it shocking that so many of you seemed shocked.

The real question is Are the American people going to let this outrageous ridiculous redderick work again.

If people allow Mc Bush to get in the White House this country deserves everything it has coming to it.

Which is the rich getting richer the poor becoming poorer and Oil still running through the veins of the people in charge.

Come on People, How many of you own 12 cars and 7 houses????

He only pick Palen so they can destroy Alaska with their drills, she did not have the power to do it just being the Governer, she needed the open door and he gave it to her. See how many cars and houses they gain if they win…

Dont fall for it, Not this time, Not now!!!!

The Truth Always Hurts and Offends Liberals   September 22nd, 2008 2:59 pm ET

THE DRIVE BY MEDIA AND OBAMA ARE DOING A GREAT JOB OF PLAYING THE RACE CARD BECAUSE THEY/HE KNOWS HIS BACKGROUND IS THAT OF ONE WHO IS INEXPERIENCED, HAS A HORRIBLE VOTING RECORD IN THE SENATE WHERE HE ENTERED MOSTLY PRESENT (COULD NOT MAKE A DECISION), PICKED A HORRIBLE RUNNING MATE, HAS AMERICA HATERS/TERRORISTS FOR PARTNERS, FRIENDS AND FAMILY MEMBERS AND IF IT WAS KNOWN TO ALL THAT HIS OWN HALF BROTHER IS LIVING ON $12 A YEAR WHILE HE IS FILTHY RICH (WHEN HE SAYS HE IS EVERYONE'S BROTHER…HA!!) WOULD NOT BE TAKEN SERIOUSLY. OH YES, CONSERVATIVE REPUBLICANS HAVE ALREADY SENT OVER $2,000 TO HIS HALF BROTHER SO HE COULD LIVE A BETTER LIFE.

Sue, Shawnee, OH   September 22nd, 2008 2:59 pm ET

I am one old white uneducated female. You know what I say? Look at the mess these real smart white people have made of my country and I sure as hell don't want any more of them! Go Obama/Biden!!!!

beevee   September 22nd, 2008 2:59 pm ET

I hope not . It would be such a shame not to vote for a brilliant person just because he is not white. I hope those who think like that should also think of the alternative choice – the senile old man and his running mate Miss Alaska runner up who thinks she gained foreign policy experience and expertise by smelling Russia breeze over the straits.

JEric   September 22nd, 2008 2:59 pm ET

Yep, it seems they've already formed PUMA and NOBAMA. Time to call these closet racists out for who they are.

Chris   September 22nd, 2008 2:59 pm ET

It is really pathetic that after all these years the American people can't look past petty issues such as race and gender. For all the people that say that Obama has gotten to where he is right now due to the color of his skin is completely ridiculous. In fact, if anything, his road to becoming such an important figure in our time has been much MORE difficult than the average candidate. It only shows how people tend to view politics in the first place. The American people need to learn that for Democracy to work, then they need to vote on the issues/policies of each candidate. I am getting very sick of the current campaign smear tactics, and I can't wait till the debates on friday. While Obama is probably practicing talking about his policies, McCain is probably still trying to come up with them.

Tony   September 22nd, 2008 2:59 pm ET

Things are at the worst in they have been in America since 1929.

If people vte against Obama simply because he is a bi-racial man, then whatever happens to them they will have deserved.

Obama's being half white and half black should have NOTHING to do with whether or not you vote for him. If Americans were not so uninvolved and lazy, would get the facts instead of listening to lies and rumors, Obama would be ahead by 20 points or more. Americans call themselves progressive. What a joke! Racism, bigorty and hate are also part of what makes America what it is and sadly things haven't changed all that much.

If Obama had a name like John and looked more white than black, people would vote for him.

How pathetic and hypocritical. Should McCain and Palin win in November, I hope that for each person who voted for them that things get as bad as they possibly can. Sometimes that is the only way to wake people up.

Yes We Can   September 22nd, 2008 2:59 pm ET

Obama will win because of his intelligence and judgement no problem on this choice its like daylight Obama /dark dungeon ,out of touch in the dark 1800's mind set ,calls computers "The mystery box " can't even send an email OMG I am 78 years been on here for years where in the hell has McBush been ?
It just shows how bright he isn" an old stick in the mud t mired so deep he don't know where he is ,what he has said in last 5 minutes and lies continually .123 houses and 13 vehic les + Millions he has not a clue what the everyday folks have to deal with the old crook
Remember McWar will not deny that crooked old Gramm would be his Treasury Secretary (look Phill Gramm up for all the donatio s that came his way .)
Read these "Lipstick on pittbulls *" Sam Harris .org
McCain and the POW cover-up by Sydney h. Schauhberg

drummajor66   September 22nd, 2008 2:59 pm ET

Are you guys paid Obama staffers or are you volunteers?
The media especially CNN, MSNBC & ABC are so attached to Obama's butt until you have zero credibility left. More people are watching BBC America & Fox now because of your blatant Obama butt kissing.
Even people who don't like Fox are watching Fox, just to get some kind of balanced news. Obama isn't the Messiah over there, everything isn't racist over there.
BBC America is the best. They go after everbody equally something CNN used to do. You know, back when you really were the most trusted.

Michael   September 22nd, 2008 2:58 pm ET

How biased can this poll be? Of course some whites hold a negative view of blacks. BUT you have to look at it the other way. How many blacks hold a negative view of whites. I bet it's a greater percentage. But wait, blacks can't be racist because that doesn't fit in the mainstream liberal media. If I were wrong on this, then there wouldn't be 96% of black Americans voting for Obama.

Michigan Independent   September 22nd, 2008 2:58 pm ET

…grow up America… good and bad…comes in ALL colors!

Policy, temperament and intelligence should rule this decision…anything less is letting America down….

Republican for Obama   September 22nd, 2008 2:58 pm ET

The people on this blog stating it has nothing to do with race are not being honest. I personally know 6 people who trust me enough to tell me they will not vote for a black man. So either all 6 racists in this country are living in close proximity or there is a naivety to these statements saying racism does not exist.

People saying that it's not because he is black it's his lack of experience, my question to you is, what do you qualify Palin as then? She has less education and foreign experience and yet she gets a big thumbs up from the Republican base? I guess you need a new argument.

Honesty is the only way to overcome this issue. I don't have much faith in honesty these days.

Fed Up   September 22nd, 2008 2:58 pm ET

It's obvious that bigotry and ideals of the KKK are still alive and well in many parts of the country. That is a fact. Let's hope it doesn't result in a disaster in November with a win by McSame. Then we'll truly deserve what we get.

Just say NO to Bush 44 and Caribou Barbie.

GO Obama/Biden!!!

Liz   September 22nd, 2008 2:58 pm ET

Please, give me a break. I am a black person and I chose not to support Obama, does that make it anything to do with race. What about all the black people who are voting for Obama because he is black? Does that make it a racial issue? What about all the black people who are not voting for McCain because he is white? It does not matter the reason behind why I am not voting for a candidate. If I do not like or trust a candidate I will not vote for them. So please stop making race an issue and let people vote for whoever they feel comfortable with. Do you want us to feel guilty because we decide to vote for the white candidate and not the black candidate? I thought this was a democratic and free country so we can vote for whoever we feel is the right person for each of us.

CNN, its you and the other media who are making this a racial election. Obama knew that there are some white people out there that will not vote for a black person and McCain knows that there are some black people out there that will not vote for a white man. It works both ways so why is it only racial when the white person does not want to vote for a black candidate?

CitizenAJ   September 22nd, 2008 2:58 pm ET

I agree with Senator Obama. The majority who will vote for him will vote for him because they support his plans and vision for the nation and those who will not vote for him, will not because they do not support his vision and plans for the country. America has come a long way but prejudices will always exist, here and around the world. The good news is, is America has move so far that a person of color and a woman can be in this position.

So, Joseph, I don't think you are racist because you are not voting for the Obama/Biden ticket!

Bob Indianapolis, IN   September 22nd, 2008 2:57 pm ET

Let's go over this again: The reason the country is facing a new Great Depression, is that since the glory days of St. Ron Reagan, who said “Government isn’t the solution to our problems; government is the problem", the Republican Party has been systematically deregulating banking, energy, and anything that was good for corporate America's big fat bottom line. Now the policies that John McCain has supported for 26 years [along with Dumbya] have destroyed our economy. If you consider the "experience" of voting for bad policies more important than a fresh vision for America, you are sadly ignorant and deserve to lose everything you hold dear. PERIOD!

Lisa   September 22nd, 2008 2:57 pm ET

I would not even give this type of "research" the time of day as it only perpetuates the myth. The data were collected in an unreliable fashion. We are better that this as a country and a people. Barriers will be broken in this election!
Obama/Biden 08

Stephina   September 22nd, 2008 2:57 pm ET

This is all just more media hype. It is like the media can't accept the fact that there chosen candidate is not going to win, so they have fabricate that it must be because of racism.

Simply put, I am NOT voting for Obama because he lacks experience. I do not feel that he would be a strong leader when dealing with the Islamic countries, China, N. Korea and Russia.

If the Democrats had really wanted to win the election they would have nominated Hillary Clinton. I guess that party is truly not only sexist but incredibly stupid. Can say "shoot yourself in the foot" (LOL)

McCain 2008
Clinton or Romney in 2012

Oregon calling   September 22nd, 2008 2:57 pm ET

That's what they want you to think. They don't want you to vote in your best interests so they will keep the Race card out there. WAKE UP AMERICA!!!!!!! Vote for the intelligent guy this time.

Obama / Biden 08

Tainopower   September 22nd, 2008 2:57 pm ET

Suggesting that if you are white and don’t vote for obama in one way or another that you are racist is wrong . What about the black people in this country if they don’t vote for McCain are they racist to? It not about his color its about is ideals and the lack of experience and his judgment.

Linda31   September 22nd, 2008 2:57 pm ET

Decisions by the Secretary pursuant to the authority of this Act are non-reviewable and committed to agency discretion, and may not be reviewed by any court of law or any administrative agency.

Just a piece of the language in the $700B bail out. So if you are voting based on the color of someone's skin, just remember the color of the dollar doesn't match anyone's skin.

38 year old   September 22nd, 2008 2:57 pm ET

When are republicans going to realize that not all Americans are as gullible and stupid as their nominees? The part that amazes me the most is how they can turn a blind eye to facts and lie with straight faces. And the media does not even seem to care. If I was a fortune 500 company owner or what ever other type of people vote republican, I would be insulted at the nominees that the republicans have been presenting over the last few terms. Pallin's daughter is pregnant by someone different than the person that they want us to believe it is. McCain knows nothing about finances or reform. He has organized crime ties and gambling habits. I agree with David Chapel: “The stakes are too high in the Whitehouse for this!" From a boozer to a looser! Is this all the republicans have to offer? Surely they don't honestly think these two people, Frick & Frack, can run our country.

Laura, Boston   September 22nd, 2008 2:57 pm ET

It is getting sickening to keep hearing that if someone doesn't vote for Obama it has/must be due to racism. Not everything is about race.

I have heard people say that they won't vote for McCain because he is old and senile. This too is a bias. McCain, when you think about it has a double whammy because he has Palin as his running mate. Sexism…another bias!

I have also read on this blog and others that if Obama loses that we will see a race war like we have never seen before! Well if that is the kind of people Obama has supporting him…they will revote rather than congratulate the winners, than I do not want Obama to win! Obama supporters have been very spiteful and hateful first to Hillary now to McCain.

May the best man win…..whoever does will be better than GWB!!! Isn't that what's important.

Laura, Boston, MA

truth is ...   September 22nd, 2008 2:57 pm ET

not voting for Obama CANNOT be considered racist… If Obama is biracial, that means that anyone voting against Obama is also voting against a person that is 1/2 white. Unless you're all saying that Obama is more black than white!

Open Your 3rd Eye   September 22nd, 2008 2:56 pm ET

GET——-OVER———IT——–WHITE———-PEOPLE

HE IS THE ONLY SMART, REAL CHOICE WHO HAS YOU & YOUR FAMILY'S BEST INTERESTS AT HEART.

ONE.

John in Ohio   September 22nd, 2008 2:56 pm ET

Just because you oppose Obama doesn't mean you're a racist.

But if you agree with all of his political positions, all of his social program propositions, if you are more in agreement with Democrat policies then Republican policies and you're not voting for Obama because you "just don't trust him", then yeah, you're a racist.

If you disagree with the ideas Obama has put forth, that doesn't mean you're a racist, but it does mean you aren't using race as the deciding factor. Same goes for if you agree with Obama and you're voting for him, you might be a racist anyway. But if you agree with Obama, disagree with McCain, and you're not voting for Obama? Racism.

Evolve.

George in Indianapolis   September 22nd, 2008 2:56 pm ET

VOTING DOLLARS! $250.00 THIS MONTH FOR OBAMA BIDEN, $500 NEXT MONTH FOR OBAMA BIDEN.

PLUS MY MOST IMPORTANT FREEDOM AND RESPONSIBILITY.

VOTE THE RACIST BASTARDS OUT.

Trysh, Los Angeles   September 22nd, 2008 2:55 pm ET

I have to admit…I am entertained at the epiphany this has been for white people. We have said all this time that racism IS still a factor, but until THEY did a survey and THEY got whites to say, it was considered manufactured or imagined.

PJ, New York Independent   September 22nd, 2008 2:55 pm ET

Deb, Allentown, PA , you said:

And before a McCain supporter says something stupid, like "all black people are voting for Obama so that makes up the votes Obama will lose" let me point out that Kerry received over 90% of the black vote in 2004. African-Americans generally vote for Democratic principles more than they vote for color.
****************************************************************************
Deb in Allentown, PA… let me point out to you that you're right about blacks voting Democrat/voting for Kerry in 2004. Now here's a FACT CHECK for you: you conveniently left out the fact that during the primaries the blacks on average were voting 94% for Obama, over Clinton. Can you explain that??

Anyone can call me a racist all they want but I am NOT voting for Obama, no way!

Y   September 22nd, 2008 2:55 pm ET

Anyone who would admit that they would not vote for someone because of their race should not be allowed to vote because they are not truly American.

12 year old Bir-racial Boy   September 22nd, 2008 2:55 pm ET

Everyday I tell my parents, I don't see race. They are 40 and 46. They told me that not all people are like that. They are always telling to do my best in school. I can't get anything lower B+'s on my report card.
I want to be an enviormental engineer after college.

After reading this article, I am afraid that people will still dislike me they way they dislike Sen Obama.

My mom sometimes calls me Sen. Obama because I take so long to answer questions. (like him)

Will people just not like me because I'm Bir-racial like Sen. Obama?

kescia   September 22nd, 2008 2:55 pm ET

Give the "experience" thing a rest. The founding fathers set forth the qualifications for president–period.

Jay T.   September 22nd, 2008 2:55 pm ET

I'm prejudiced against ignorant, incompetent, corrupt politicians. That is why I would never vote for a ticket that had the name Palin on it.

Just Human   September 22nd, 2008 2:55 pm ET

Why all this about skin color. Why can't humans just see past it and into the person? Oh, that's right, they were TAUGHT to think that way. How sad…

Brian, NJ   September 22nd, 2008 2:55 pm ET

I have a relative who basically admitted he would never vote to elect a black man President. Luckily my kids were not in the room. Very sad.

Anyway, for those who are against the buyout, I know it sucks, but it is needed. The amount paid for in taxes will be far less than the losses in 401(k)'s and housing values if we let the financial system collapse.

Of course the US just became a borderline communist country over the weekend, no walls or statues pulled down.

Russian Navy on its way to Venezuala. Iraq and now the financial bailout straining our financial system. Watch out for how Russia plays this.

MD, TX   September 22nd, 2008 2:55 pm ET

Here we go again. OBAMA PLAYING THE RACE CARD. The Republicans don't play it. HIllary didn't play it. Only Obama plays the race card.

Apparently his ONLY qualification and reason for running for President is that he is black. Well sorry, that is not good enough. If Colin Powell were running, I would vote for him. If Juan Williams were running I would vote even for him.

Obama is not only black, he is a racist. Be prepared America, if he loses it will be "because we are not ready for a black president".

However, if he loses it will be because we are not ready for an idiot president.

Independent Fred   September 22nd, 2008 2:55 pm ET

I'm going to put faith in the American people to not let fear or stereotypes determine guide their vote.

One thing I find funny is there's no emphasis that he's *GASP* HALF WHITE…Why is he always presented as the first "Black Presidential candadate?"

I wonder how much of this hoopla is spurred on by the media?
This man win or loose is a example of how far things have come in America.

Anonymous   September 22nd, 2008 2:55 pm ET

I believe it is wrong to not vote for someone because of race, but I also believe that it's wrong to vote for someone because of their race. And it think it's terrible that by default Obama is getting all of the black vote.

McCain 08

Dan , TX   September 22nd, 2008 2:55 pm ET

Has anyone noticed that when CNN does a "fact" check no McCain the conclusion is partly misleading or not true and when they "fact" check Obama it is true or partly misleading.

McCain's campaign is lying every day. We need to reject this politics and reject McCain. This is about changing politics and America. We can send this message.

Reese   September 22nd, 2008 2:54 pm ET

Oh please…with the racial lines. It's getting old. Obama doesn't even care about black people. He cares about feeding his ego and the media is the breast.

Let's look at it this way:

If there were no racial diversions Obama would be receiving about 1% of the black vote instead of 98%.

NoMcSame   September 22nd, 2008 2:54 pm ET

The white women are worse that the white men with that stuff. Look at how many of them jumped on the Palin wagon without even knowing her. It's like, Oh white woman me too, I can relate to her. How sad that in this time we still have to deal with the stupidity of people. They say things like Obama went to Harvard so that makes him uppity so I don't like him. That negros teeth looks better than mine, what is the world coming to and my trailer can fit in his backyard, oh my Lord. McSame is more like me in color anyway. FOOLS is what you are. McSame will take us all down and have us crash and burn just like he did.

Suzie   September 22nd, 2008 2:54 pm ET

As long as Obama bleeds red, I could care less what the color of his skin is.

This is one middle aged white woman voting for Obama because he will be a great president and will move this country forward.

CA Felons for Obama   September 22nd, 2008 2:54 pm ET

We don't care what race he is. Well, normally we would, but we want a centralized government and a planned economy! Yes! Vote Obama!!!!! GIVE US COMMUNISM NOW !!! Take from the rich and give to us poor! Guarantee our jobs! Give us health care managed by our government! Nationalize our oil companies! Set wage and price controls! We want Communism and we want it now! Vote OBAMA!

Victor   September 22nd, 2008 2:54 pm ET

Common racial bigots….Obama is the "whitest" black you can ever get. He's by far the better candidate in this general election.

Dominique   September 22nd, 2008 2:54 pm ET

I think a lot of people are going to step into the voting booth and vote based on their wallets and pocketbooks. Money is green. That is the only color that is going to matter during this election cycle.

Obama-Biden '08

McCain for Pres.   September 22nd, 2008 2:54 pm ET

If Obama loses, its because he has no experience. Sarah Palin has 10 times more experience than he does and democrats are trying to knock her. If he wasn't a black man he wouldn't have gotten this far. It is to his advantage to be half black.

Tony   September 22nd, 2008 2:54 pm ET

How pathetic the American people are.

At a time of the worst economic situation since 1929, unemployement at a record high, people fighting to get low paying jobs just to have a job, health insurance unaffordable, etc., people still would vote for McCain and Palin. It is absolutely mind-boggling.

McCain, who is in large part responsible for the mess we are in by votes he has cast, BUSH and the republican party have an enormous amout to be blamed for and still people would vote to put McCain in the White House to continue doing what he has always done.

As if that were not bad enough, he chooses some aging Barbie Doll to be his running mate simply because he thinks that the majority of women are ignoranat and apathetic enough to vote for him by doing so.

I do not want to hear one woman who is planning on voting republican this election claim that she puts her family, her children and their futures first. A vast majority of women, especially white women who are voting republican, are exactly what the republicans count on. They are ignorant, apathetic, unaware and totally irresponsible.

Should by some chance McCain and Palin win, at a time when things are at one of the worst periods in history, America will deserve exactly what it gets.

WORD UP!   September 22nd, 2008 2:53 pm ET

The secret rule that only a white man can be the president of the USA needs to be broken. Obama is the clear winner in the historic contest but his race has become a obstacle for many voters. Every president since 1776 has been a white man. The time to break this trend is NOW.

Trysh, Los Angeles   September 22nd, 2008 2:53 pm ET

And as a Black woman, I don't believe it is MOST whites; just some. I also don't believe that ANY white person who doesn't vote for him is voting against him because he is Black. I do believe that those who supported Hillary, but are now supporting McCain ARE voting against Obama because of his race. There is no logical explanation for supporting Hillary's vision which is almost identical to Obama's, then going to McCain who is almost the polar opposite of Hillary.

Also, those who say "there is something about Obama" or "he just seems "too smooth" or "something is missing" are generally people who have a preconceived attitude about what a Black man is supposed to be and they can't wrap their brains around Obama not living down to their personal stereotype.

If he loses, race will not be the MAIN REASON why, but it will be a small part of it. The good news is….it will be a SMALL part of it.

No matter what happens, this is great! We've never been this close before – and look at us now!

Ariana   September 22nd, 2008 2:53 pm ET

Stupid racists. I hope you suffer the most when crazy McCain is elected!

Watching Closely   September 22nd, 2008 2:53 pm ET

Look people, this is what HRC meant when she said she was more "electable". She knew, no matter how educated, articulate, fiscally responsible, of good character and judgment Obama is, there is a good number of Americans who will not vote for him because he's black. Period. The polls the media are referring to are of those who simply admitted their biases, which is one step closer to purifying their hearts. The poll does not include those who harbor hatred behind closed doors, in shielded voting booths, in Corporate America, the education system, or the government itself. Too bad for them, because it's rather peaceful to be free from strongholds where you're able to spot good and evil no matter where it exists. My advice to them "free your mind and the rest will follow".

The Nightingale Sings in Berkley Square   September 22nd, 2008 2:53 pm ET

Race is playing a big part for Obama as 90% of the blacks are voting for Obama because he is black.

I can't believe that is fair.

Now if the women voted for palin they would say they would be insulted to vote for a woman just because she is a woman.

So let's vote for McCain

Dr. Mimi De La Cruz for OBAMA   September 22nd, 2008 2:53 pm ET

HERE IS A GOOD QUESTION FOR ALL.

WHICH ONE OF THESE TWO MEN WOULD

YOU TRUST WITH YOUR CHILDREN'S &

GRAND CHILDREN'S FUTURES. MCSENILE

HAS ALREADY ROBBED THEM ALL BLIND.

Susan   September 22nd, 2008 2:53 pm ET

America should be ashamed! If race decides this election, we deserve whatever we get with McCain.

Peter (CA)   September 22nd, 2008 2:53 pm ET

Rob—

So how has your experienced former Texas governor doing these days? Being blinded by party is sad. I'm not sure what you mean by "lack of knowledge" but the reason why Obama is where he is now is because he is smart. Much smarter than the man now in office and, it seems, somewhat smarter than McCain also. Wouldn't it be nice to have a smart guy who makes informed decisions in the Oval Office as opposed to guys who make gut decisions, no matter the consequences?

Inuk–

Be angry. But be angry at the Republicans. They started this mess, they fostered it along so that Bush could say the economy was doing fine and now they want to bail out their billionaire constituents.

Mike - Texas   September 22nd, 2008 2:52 pm ET

The media and Nobama keep playing the race card.

For me, race has nothing to do with this campaign. I do not like his politics.

I was hoping for Colin Powell to run for President.

Kel in Auburn, AL   September 22nd, 2008 2:52 pm ET

This is the truth. The sad part about it is that so many Americans are stupid enough to be prejudiced to this degree. Our country has come so far, yet we still have so far to go.

John Smith   September 22nd, 2008 2:52 pm ET

Do not forget, the color of the skin corresponds to….

your level of intelligence

the number of resources you have in America

the number of dates you can have

the extent of your social network

the number of times you will be called upon to fight in wars and defend the other race!

Jude   September 22nd, 2008 2:52 pm ET

BO needs to put distance between himself and McSame. He will lose if the race is too close. If he doesn't lose by racism, the Repubs will probably steal the election from him. I know we don't want to acknowledge it but "race" could be the deciding factor cause it still exists in our society. Obama's just trying to be "nice" by saying he "doesn't think" race will matter.

Roger   September 22nd, 2008 2:52 pm ET

I listened to one of Obama's speeches on CNN about the bail out and I really got the impression that Obama dosen't know what he is talking about. He needs to stick to the teleprompter.

Matt of Ohio   September 22nd, 2008 2:52 pm ET

What anout the reverse racism? many blacks are voting for Obama simply becasue of his race and nothing more. Roland martin of CNN is a primary example of racism carried to extremes —

Phil-Texas   September 22nd, 2008 2:52 pm ET

I never thought I would say I am voting for a black I mean half black man for president but I am. The way the current administration has led us into the worst crisis since the great depression.I am sure it will be remembered in the same breath as the Hoover era. Where big business just about did the country in. It is erie how much the two events are similar. Both had presidents that closed their eyes to what big business did and then had little imagination or inkling of what to do about it. Such a waste of american wealth for a few or maybe not so few greedy snakes.

RepublicansHateAmerica   September 22nd, 2008 2:52 pm ET

This IS the topic. Can YOU put aside your prejudices and vote for an African America? I can. Perhaps you someone who cannot. These are the people that need our help between now and Nov 4th. They need to see beyond color and to the vision of the future.

mzzzrich   September 22nd, 2008 2:52 pm ET

Independent, the article didn't say that if you don't vote for Obama, you're a racist, which clearly you seem to be. Instead, it said that there were white folks out there who honestly admitted that they would not vote for him because of his race. This is no surprise to most of the blacks in America, who live with subtle (hidden) racism daily. I'm sick of white folks who cannot admit that they're prejudiced. Geeze!!

S.B. Stein E.B. NJ   September 22nd, 2008 2:52 pm ET

It ashame that people can't just look at the policies that are there presented by the candidate. Who cares how he looks. Listen to the story as to how he got there — loans and working to pay for college. That is what people should be listening to as well as his policies.

TIRED OF THE GOP   September 22nd, 2008 2:52 pm ET

We will over come… We will over come someday…. I know deep in my heart ( WE WILL OVER COME SOMEDAY! )

Dina Phila., Pa   September 22nd, 2008 2:51 pm ET

This is disgusting! I believe that other races other than African Americans that would not vote for Barack Obama just because of the color of his skin are just plain STUPID, IGNORRANT, DUMB, RIDICULOUS, AND IDIOTIC, need I say more!!!!!

I know that some people would just let this country continue to go down the tubes at the hands of a White man, rather to have a Black man help this Country get out of this mess. I hope that the people that won't vote for him because of the color of his skin, never get anywhere in life, and I hope that they are the next ones to receive pink slips from the company they work for because their jobs are getting shipped to India, and I hope that they don't healthcare, and I hope that their children have the same fate! I forgot to say, and I hope that they lose their homes, or apartments and have nowhere for their families to live!

It's not just about them and their bigotry, it's about the people that live in this country, too! The fate that they help to create in this country just because of the color of a person's skin, we all have to live with! They may be able to deal with 4 years of the same, but the rest of this County cannot! McCain is an old cancer survivor that just might not live to see 73. Then what do we have in office, a Governor with no experience in charge of this Country.

Go ahead; make the difference for your family and the rest of us.

Abby   September 22nd, 2008 2:51 pm ET

RACE – is not the reason – obama is NOT qualified – that is why he will never be elected.

McCain/Palin – BEST for our country

Poole4Obama   September 22nd, 2008 2:51 pm ET

Inuk must be from Alaska.

Can you see Russia from your hoooouusseee too?

Comparing Obama to Carter is the most ridiculous thing I've heard in a long time. The only thing that links them is their both democrats.

Obama's tax plan makes sense, unless you make over 250,000 Inuk.

I guess that's a testament to Alaskan education.

Good job Palin.

onelove   September 22nd, 2008 2:51 pm ET

Where are talking heads getting that 90% of black people are voting for Obama. Whenever I see Sen. Obama at a rally or other event I see a sea of white faces.

A lot ofr Blacks are voting for Obama because America is in need of a change and we believe since Iowa believed he can win. Iowa and other white states voted for Obama, which in turn made blacks more comfortable to vote for him. Besides we've always voted for the white guy.

I checked McCain's policies at his website against Obama's policies and trust me, Sen. Obama is for the little guy/girl. Our skin color is not the issue the policies are.

nate   September 22nd, 2008 2:50 pm ET

A racist America is the only hope the GOP has left.

vanessa   September 22nd, 2008 2:50 pm ET

America,

The world is watching, But then again, I am not shocked. Need I remind you all that just this year we had people hanging nooses around the country!!!

America, the world is watching.
You will rather suffer for another four years than vote for a man who is half black.

WOW!!!

TESAP;SAVANNAH, GA   September 22nd, 2008 2:50 pm ET

inuk of the north if obama is the new Jimmy carter who would that make Mccain….Bush and all the other republicans………….. YEAH THE PEOPLE TAKLING US INTO A GREAT DEPRESSION………

TexasVet   September 22nd, 2008 2:50 pm ET

Thanks for posting this story AGAIN! Can we talk about something more interesting like McCain's AGE and his diminished mental capacity as a result of it. Why is no one but the Wall Street Journal willing to talk about this? I believe that would have more of an actual affect on the presidency. Can you also talk about the fact that Obama is preparing for the debates by working out and McCain is doing so by NAPPING.

Obama/Biden 08

SJP   September 22nd, 2008 2:50 pm ET

This is a pathetic excuse for why the race is so close. And it is really sad when people say a vote for the experienced guy is racism. Maybe some of us fear the lack of experience, or the destruction of our health care system, or more costly programs to bankrupt our country. Or maybe we want to vote for the guy who realizes that the energy problem isn't going to go away with conservation alone – Nuclear as well as wind, solar and others and more production of oil here in the USA.

I'm sorry that I have to be considered a racist because of these views. By the way, who are most black people voting for?

Anonymous   September 22nd, 2008 2:50 pm ET

If there was race neutrality, the contest would probably be dead-even since about 95% of blacks will vote for Obama.

Former Republican for OBAMA   September 22nd, 2008 2:50 pm ET

AS A WHITE MAN I AM ASHAMED THIS IS

EVEN A SUBJECT WE ARE TALKING ABOUT.

MCSENILE IS ALL THIS NATION IS NOT &

BARACK OBAMA IS ALL WE WANT TO BE,

FORWARD THINKING, UNITED, A WORLD LEADER

& IN CHARGE OF OUT NATION & OUR DESTINY.

A Patel   September 22nd, 2008 2:50 pm ET

No black No white We all for United state of America.But 97% Black vote for Mr Obama.

conny   September 22nd, 2008 2:50 pm ET

So So Sad, as a female (Ret) Vet to continue to hear such ignorance is sad. Just to think ,in ALL of the wars a person may (just may) look at race for second but, bottom line you are out their protecting yourself and your fellow soldier. Just last evening while getting ready for bed i thought: We have had enough of the presense administration and to inherit 4 more years is crazy and then the race issue came to my head WOW! i can just imagine that Sen McCain/Gov Palin, in their own minds are/would be thinking that all they have to do is play some hard ugly politics and be talked about for a moment and just know that at the end of the day Sen Obama, wouldn't see the door to White house because of his race! At this very moment in time the United States have more serious issues. Sen Obama is smart and at least he thinks because he blots out a solution, heck blotting may easy put us in another war. At the end of the day we need change

Obama Biden 08

Reality Check richmond virginia   September 22nd, 2008 2:50 pm ET

I have said it will be 5%. Now keep in mind, alot of that 5% would vote for McCain(GOP) anyway, but 1-2% could be the difference in this election.

John   September 22nd, 2008 2:49 pm ET

I am a minority and I am not voting for Obama. Why? I do not agree with his socialist ideology…

GET REAL.   September 22nd, 2008 2:49 pm ET

On behalf of my fellow white people, I want to dare other white people to give Obama the shot he deserves. If you really think he's going to fail because of his race, put your vote where your mouth is and give him the shot. I personally give you permission to say "I told you so" if he doesn't work out.

You're just scared. Remember: the prophets and messiahs in all your religions weren't even white.

MEP   September 22nd, 2008 2:49 pm ET

So can ignorance, age,prejudice,lack of education and experience and dishonesty.Let's look at the polls again closer to the election.(What questions are the pollsters asking exactly?)

Ken   September 22nd, 2008 2:49 pm ET

This is not about race, but that Obama thinks that he is better then the rest of us. That he lacks the experience, skills, knowledge and talents!

I don't trust him to be our next president. He has shown that he is like any other politician and that he lied saying that he was a different kind of politician.

I am a Hillary Clinton supporter that is voting for McCain/Palin because I want someone in the oval office that knows what they are doing, and not some "Rookie" doing "OJT"!

McCain/Palin 2008

Hillary Clinton 2012

Jack   September 22nd, 2008 2:48 pm ET

RACE – an Issue – NOT!
But – it is a FACT that 96% of all AA's vote for obama – due to
RACE PRIDE!

Smith in Ohio   September 22nd, 2008 2:48 pm ET

Independent but Leaning, perhaps you didn't read the entire artcicle: "2.5 percent of those surveyed — said they may turn away from Obama because of his race". And those are simply the people who will admit it.

I do not think you are racist just because you don't want to vote for Obama. But if you don't want to vote for him because of his race – then you are absolutely racist.

Larry of Boston   September 22nd, 2008 2:48 pm ET

I do not trust Obama. That is not racist.

I do not believe Obama is qualified. That is not racist.

Obama has little to no experince when compared to McCain. That is not racist.

Obama talks sharply and is cunning and knows how to wage campaigns – that is NOT what is needed in the White House. That is not racist.

McCain has built his reputation with deeds and years of experience while Obama is trying to make his reputation with just words on what he will do. That is not racist

If Obama's argument to me to give him my vote is that McCain has 13 cars and 7 houses and Obama has just one $4 million home and drives a Ford hybrid — that is a terrible wasted of campaign dollars.for Obama to spend and I do not want that sort of person handling my money or that of the country's. That ain't racist

And anyone who does not think that race has helped Obama in the Sourthern states against Hillary in the primaries where 95% of blacks voted for Obama, you are nuts. Now, that might be racist; I am not sure, but if it is, it is Obama's racism to blame.

Marie in California   September 22nd, 2008 2:48 pm ET

I'm sure some whites will not vote for Obama because of race, but I think their numbers are small.

To me, the most racist element in this entire election cycle is the fact that 90% or more of blacks vote for Obama, which leads me to believe they are voting BECAUSE of race. That's racist.

Needless to say, there would be a huge outcry of RACISM if 90% of whites voted for the white candidate. Why isn't there the same outcry and blame when 90% of blacks vote for Obama?

Skin color should not matter….in either direction, black or white!

pam   September 22nd, 2008 2:48 pm ET

Even if race does play a role in this election I don't think it will help mccain; I don't think anything will help him; he's part of the past

Claire, Vermont   September 22nd, 2008 2:48 pm ET

Its such a cop-out for anyone to claim that 90% of African americans are
voting for Obama because of his race. African Americans vote
DEMOCRAT 90% of the time while voting for a white candidate 100%
of the time. It is amazing how some whites can dismiss a qualified
person on the basis of race even if he is HALF of what you are. You
disclaim your own?

Obama / Biden 08.

Bill   September 22nd, 2008 2:48 pm ET

What percentage of blacks are not voting for McCain because he's white? Could this also be construed as racist?

Core   September 22nd, 2008 2:48 pm ET

We have come a long way but…here in Ohio I know people that agree with OB on almost every issue but won't vote for him because he is black… I even heard on person talk about their small town this way…"we wash our bed sheets friday, hang them out to dry on Saturday, and wear them on Sunday"…wow…like many times in this world good people are hurt or destroyed by hate, fear, and ignorance.

truth   September 22nd, 2008 2:47 pm ET

surprise, surprise, the media and barack started to play the race card, since barack is not doing too well, I Can't wait for the presidential debates. Hillary supporter for Senator McCain/Palin
PUMA

wendy spice   September 22nd, 2008 2:47 pm ET

mccain said he know where osoma bin laden is, but if u don't make him the president he wont tell the american people, just the same way that bush said sadam disrespected his father & he was going to show him a lessson & he went to iraq kill the man & his sons & america is ok with that. Who will mccain take out when he is president.

Interesting...   September 22nd, 2008 2:47 pm ET

Where's the balance? How do blacks view whites? Would a majority of blacks vote for a white candidate if given an African American on the other ticket? Would these same black voters base their vote on the issues and not color? For the first time in our history we have the opportunity to poll to see if there's just as many issues in the reverse when the vote is for POTUS. Instead, we're only getting one side of the story.

Latina for Obama (nj)   September 22nd, 2008 2:47 pm ET

That is really sad!!

RDS   September 22nd, 2008 2:47 pm ET

People like Independent and Leaning and Joseph need to grow up. Nobody said that just because you didn't support Obama that you are racist! Some blacks don't support him. Naturally, you're not the one's their talking about. But there are people out there who say that can't/won't vote for a black man regardless of his policies. Acknowledging that racism exist is not playing the race card! Stop being so sensitive if the shoe doesnt fit dont wear it, unless it does fit…in that case just keep stepping!

Jacquelyn Wilson   September 22nd, 2008 2:47 pm ET

I have never heard Obama speak on anything but being an American. Being American comes in all kinds of people. If race is such an issue for some to not vote for a person, better reconize that all money is green and it is being attack like none other. So if a black, white or striped person can help solve the problems that America is facing let him or her. I tell you I am very racist against ignorant people.

Joyce in Florida   September 22nd, 2008 2:47 pm ET

After seeing Hillary Clinton in person on 9/8/08, this Hillary supporter and white female will be voting for Obama/Biden this November. McCain/Palin are tooooooooo scary!!!!!!!! Again, it is all about the oil. No more of the same, no McCain, and definitely no Palin. Go Democrats. We will take back the White House!!!!!!!

N.S of Huntsville, Al   September 22nd, 2008 2:47 pm ET

ALL OBAMA CAN DO IS THE BEST THAT HE CAN. ITS ALL IN GODS HANDS ANYWAYS. I HOPE PEOPLE WILL MAKE THE RIGHT CHOICE BASED ON FACTS; BUT WE LIVE IN A VERY CRUEL, HATRED WORLD, IT IS WHAT IT IS. I SEE NOT TOO MANY PEOPLE HAVE MADE COMMENTS, THE REASON IS RACE IS SO TOUCHIE BUT YET SO CLOSE TO ALL AMERICANS, WHITE, BLACK, ASIAN, HISPANIC, HAVE ALL FACED RACISM OR NO A FAMILY MEMBER OR FRIEND THAT IS RACIST, THATS THE FACT. I VOTED FOR OBAMA NOT BECAUS HE WAS BLACK, BUT BECAUSE IM DEMOCRAT, IM NOT GOING AGAINST A DEMOCRATIC NOMINEE FOR A REPUBLICAN, HELL NO LOOK AT WHATS HAPPENING UNDER THE ONE WE HAVE NOW? THAT SHOULD BE ENOUGH FOR ALL RACES TO GET BUSH OUT.

carlo   September 22nd, 2008 2:47 pm ET

Race baiting:

Go and look at Obama's resume, and compare it to McCain and Palin's and then get back to me. I didn't say watch them discuss it on Fox News, I said go and read them for yourself. We'll talk later.

Chez   September 22nd, 2008 2:46 pm ET

I have fatih in my fellow citizens.
Americans will not judge Barack Obama by the color of his skin, but by the content of his character.

Obama '08!!!

Kris   September 22nd, 2008 2:46 pm ET

Has NOTHING to do with RACE – obama is NOT qualified and that is the reason he will NEVER be elected.
Seems it is always the obama gang that always brings up race.

McCain/Palin – BEST for the USA

wow!!!!!!!!!   September 22nd, 2008 2:46 pm ET

Independent but Leaning……yeah, you white trash should be leaning toward the cliff……….

Debby   September 22nd, 2008 2:46 pm ET

I think it will come down to race because Barack was a candidate for Change and Unity and he and his campaign have pitted people against each other with of course playing the race card with Bill Clinton and treating Hillary horribly in the primaries.

Obama is out there to be the first AA President and thats it. Actually he deserves to win because he has so much on his shoulders to fix in our country and if he fails like he did with his community organizing, there is no chance of another AA to even get where he is today.

Race-baiting never accomplish's anything and it makes whites vote the color of ones skin vs. likeability or qualification of the candidate.

Rick from IL   September 22nd, 2008 2:46 pm ET

The only color I see is Blue! Former Republican voting Democratic this time around! Enough of McLoser and Pa-lin-in the butt!

13 cars, 8 homes…NO way!

Go Obama/Biden 2008

Diana Ewing NJ   September 22nd, 2008 2:46 pm ET

If race is going to play a part that make people vote or not vote for Barack Obama… I wonder which part of them they will walk away from…. His white mother, and grandparents who raised him or his black father that left him.
As an older white woman, I only see a strong leader when I look at him???

Peter (CA)   September 22nd, 2008 2:46 pm ET

For those who do not think racism exists here, look at the responses on this blog (race bating works and Yeah, right). I commend Sen. Obama for not wanting to focus on this issue.

Hopefully, as we get closer and after the debates, voters will see where this country is headed and know that McCain has no intention of changing this miserable course we are on.

Obama is the only change we can reasonably expect. Hopefully, enough voters will see that.

Excuses   September 22nd, 2008 2:46 pm ET

Well… we need to come up with a justification for Obama's poor showing in this campaign. The domocrats were supposed to be a shoo in.

Obama needs EVER more money just to stay at 50%.

Couldn't be his dirty politics and his cheating and his socialist agenda that impede his supremacy as LORD over all.

Yep… must be race.

Unlevel Playing Field   September 22nd, 2008 2:46 pm ET

Predjudiced and slightly bigotted whites need to get over this false feeling of moral, ethical, intellectual, legal or other SUPERIORITY as compared to African Americans.

I'm 47, black, male, married with children, with engineering and business degrees from Columbia University, a Christian, patriotic, fan of the blue-collar NY Giants and most of my closest friends are a lot like me. I'm not an anomaly.

There is no objective metric that you can apply to compare Obama & Biden with McCain and Palin where the GOP team comes out ahead of the Democrats. Mr. OBAMA is head & shoulders above McCain.

African American Hockey Mom   September 22nd, 2008 2:46 pm ET

Yeah, right. Can you please explain how Sen.Obama trashed and bashed HRC out of the nomination. Please give example of race-baiting?

Maybe some of the HRC supporters will vote for Sen McCain. I truly do not understand why African American blindly vote for the democratic party anyway.

Also how come the media is always talking about white female voters?
They United States also has African Americans, Latinos and Asian women voters. Will our votes be counted!

Biff   September 22nd, 2008 2:46 pm ET

WHO EVER BELIEVES OBAMA'S RACE IS AN "ADVANTAGE" FOR HIM MAY AS WELL BE LIVING ON MARS.

FL4OB   September 22nd, 2008 2:46 pm ET

This is the 21st Century. I am basing my decision on competency and new leadership away from the past eight years. Obama/Biden offer that positive direction, while I feel McCain/Palin are more of the same. Eight is enough!

lil   September 22nd, 2008 2:45 pm ET

I really believe it all you need to do is look at mccains crowds not the
size but the ethnic groups only one white people not diverse at at all.
But look at Obamas crowds they are of many ethnic groups his Obamas crowds look like the 21st century and 2008 not the 20th century and 1964. This is so scary to me. This to me mean that mccain and palin are polorizing and not includsive to all races even
his campaign advisors or not deverse. Its as if he only wants one race
vote. Thats my reason for not looking in black and white I only see
in green.
I have voting for the green men Obama/Biden 2008!
Dont give me this about mccain reaching out to AA by admitting it was
a mistake to vote against the king holiday.

Republi-Con   September 22nd, 2008 2:45 pm ET

Joseph..I'm glad u will be able to sleep at night. I just hope you will have a house to sleep in and that you won't be sleeping under the stars in winter or in a shelter. Obama has demonstrated that he is concerned about those people in this country who have no voice in Washington. Those and who are on the frontline in tough times and are the first to suffer from Washington's neglect and ill advised decisions yet are never ever considered.

LS   September 22nd, 2008 2:45 pm ET

Goes to show how many ignorant people are in this country.

There needs to be a major catastrophy in hopes of wiping out the racists SOB's.

It's just horrible to know that these types of people exist, and everyone else has to suffer the consequences of their stupidity.

One more for McCain   September 22nd, 2008 2:45 pm ET

I honestly thought at first that Barak Obama was a fine man who would rise above the stereotypes and lead us all into a world of fair thinking, and mutual respect. Then enter 'reverend' Jeremiah Wright, and Americans chickens came home to roost. Now I know that Obama is a racist with an agenda. His climb up will be to a point that looks down on some of us. He can't really be everyobody's president.
I hope and pray that John McCain wins this election.

Vicki   September 22nd, 2008 2:45 pm ET

STOP BRINGING RACE INTO THIS!!

I'm sooooo sick of hearing that if you don't vote for Obama, you're a racist. I won't vote for Obama because he is a radical LIBERAL who wants to turn our great country into a socialist nation.

With every article like this you are basically telling people if they don't vote for Obama in November then they are automatically a racist. Enough with the race bating already!!!

Dan   September 22nd, 2008 2:45 pm ET

I believe there are more people vote for Obama because he is a black than people won't vote for him. Just look at what happened in the primaries. That is how he defeated Hillary, more than 90% of blacks voted for him.

Bellamy   September 22nd, 2008 2:45 pm ET

President John F Kennedy said "ask not what your country can do for you, but what can you do for your country"

Phrased another way for today's context: Its about the Red, White and Blue and not the color of me and you.

People need to put their racial prejudices aside and vote what's best for the United States. After 8 years of GW Bush, the (should be) obvious answer is Obama/Biden and not 4 more of the same.

susan   September 22nd, 2008 2:45 pm ET

Great! We get lumbered with a lying, smearing incompetent President and fundamentalist idiot during at least two wars and economic meltdown caused by Bush, because 6% of Americans hate half of Obama's blood.
How can you people hold your heads up?
How can you do this to our country?

please   September 22nd, 2008 2:44 pm ET

independent but leaning –
your post is too funny, really, if I wasn't at work, I'd probably die laughing. Point to Obama's policies as being failed Carter ones. Umm, hmm, let me think for a sec. How about McCain's and the GOP's policies DIRECTLY causing the problems we have today? No, better talked about Carter, that makes more sense. To funny. I think you need to change your name to "GOP shill", not independent.

Sure   September 22nd, 2008 2:44 pm ET

When we cried sexism when Hillary was in the race, we were told that was not so – that she lost becuase she did not run a good campaign and Obama was the better candidate.

If Obama does not win you will all cry its "becasue he is black" and not becasue he did not run a good campaign. McCain will win because he is "white" and for that reason only.

Right!!! Sure thing, that is why Obama will lose, ha ha ha. Get a life.

Palin has more experience than Obama   September 22nd, 2008 2:44 pm ET

Call me what you will but I am not voting for Obama b/c his lack of experience.

Bring on the name calling!!!!!!!!!!

Zeppo   September 22nd, 2008 2:44 pm ET

Opompous can’t win. If you look at the AOL straw poll (where McCain is winning every state) and match it against the electoral map and you give Obama every state where he got more than 39 percent of the vote, even then he still looses by a landslide.

The Dems picked the wrong candidate.

OPOMPOUS thought his 3AM text mesage to tell Hillary she is not picked was cute.

OPOMPOUS thought that playing ADDICTED TO LOVE after Bill spoke at the convention was cute.

OPOMPOUS thought that he can call Palin a pig and McCain an old fish and noone would notice because he is sooo cute!

OPOMPOUS thought there was 57 states!

OPOMPOUS has never had a real job!

George Ennis from Toronto, Canada   September 22nd, 2008 2:44 pm ET

Of course there are those who to avoid being called racist would prefer to believe the lie that Obama is a Moslem and presumably even if that was true that would make him unfit for office. (Apparently it's OK to be anti Islam.) The problem with that is it makes clear that these people really do hate Moslems. Makes for an awkward foreign policy in the Middle East I would say. Of course hypocrisy will do that to you every time.

BOBBY K. FROM BIRMINGHAM, AL.   September 22nd, 2008 2:44 pm ET

N.S in Hunstville Alabama,
I could'nt agree with you more!!! I live in Alabama which is a RED state, bible thumping hypocrits, WHO ARE REALLY STUCK IN THE PAST. I KNOW THEIR WILL BE ALOT OF BLACKS and SOME WHITES VOTING FOR OBAMA!!!! WE NEED ALL THE HELP WE CAN HERE IN ALABAMA. I VOTED FOR OBAMA AND WILL AGAIN COME 11/4/08.
THANKS FOR YOUR COMMENT!!!
CNN PLEASE POST

Michael   September 22nd, 2008 2:44 pm ET

IF people don't want to vote for Obama becaus of his policy positions then that is that individuals choice. However, to cast your vote against him simply becasue he is NOT white is rediculous.

a southern bell for OBAMA   September 22nd, 2008 2:44 pm ET

I HAVE TO ADMIT, I AM LILLY WHITE FROM A LILLY

WHITE FAMILY & LILLY WHITE FRIEND,OF WHICH, AT

LEAST 2/3 DID NOT INTEND TO VOTE FOR BARACK, AT

THE BEGINNING OF THIS ELECTION. WE HAD A BAD

& HORRIBLE MIND SET THAT MANY WHITES HAVE IN

THE SOUTH, FOR GENERATIONS & GENERATIONS.

AFTER A GREAT DEAL OF CONSIDERATION & GETTING

TO KNOW BOTH CANDIDATES WE ARE AT 82% FOR

BARACK OBAMA & CONSIDER HIM A BLESSING FROM GOD.

MOST OF US VOTED FOR GEORGE BUSH & WE FEEL THAT

WE ARE COMPLICIT IN A CRIME AGAINST OUR NATION

& THE WORLD. WE HAVE LEARNED THE HARD WAY. WE

ARE CHRISTIANS THAT HAVE NOT BEHAVED AS CHRISTIANS.

Rev Wright   September 22nd, 2008 2:44 pm ET

I am not voting for him because of his Socialist Agenda and lack of expierence

Obamacan   September 22nd, 2008 2:44 pm ET

I dont beleive in Rush Limbaugh America. People who still have racial attitude are shame to America because America is the best hope on earth. Equality, justice, freedom are American values. If we show our racial face to the world, what they would say about us? Will CNN put this comment here? Lets see.

GET REAL PEOPLE   September 22nd, 2008 2:44 pm ET

Seriously, John McCain did not say the economy is strong he was talking about us the people who make the economy. I am so tired of people only hearing what they want to. And twisting things around to be what they want to hear. I am a 30 year old white woman and I will not be voting for Obama I will vote for MCCAIN/PALIN not because he is black but because he is not able or capable to lead this country.

Biff   September 22nd, 2008 2:44 pm ET

HERE COME ALL OF THE RIGHT WING TALKING POINTS….
BRACE YOURSELVES….

tax and spend
socialism
Jimmy Carter….

blah blah blah….

ANYTHING except ACKNOWLEDGE THAT RACISM STILL EXISTS.

brownie   September 22nd, 2008 2:44 pm ET

If you put the old and new George Bush and mix them up we get McCain ……. dear lord … GOD help us!

Trish   September 22nd, 2008 2:43 pm ET

The sad part of it all, is these people that are bias, go to church everyday and does not get that jesus died for all mankind. A true christian will try to remove all prejudice from their heart.

lets be real   September 22nd, 2008 2:43 pm ET

Obama is running on his race.

The fact that he made it this far is either reverse-racism or proof that race is NOT a factor.

Why is everyone voting AGAINST Sarah Palin? Oh… must be that gender is a big factor. Were it not for GENDER I'm sure the democrats would just LOVE Sarah Palin.

I'm sure that Obama has a real appeal to conservatives. Too bad he is half black- otherwise all those fiscal and social conservatives would just love his socialist agenda.

dan   September 22nd, 2008 2:43 pm ET

I like Obama and I would love to vote for him. The race issue makes him even more desirable to me as a voter, not less so. If he were not so liberal, I would vote for Obama, but there's no way.

Don   September 22nd, 2008 2:43 pm ET

It's nice to see the Hillary clones are starting to tone it down. Only one idiot on this thread. It's a start.

Wake up. Obama wasn't nearly as negative on Hillary as she was on him. And he didn't have to go negative until she started her "kitchen sink" attacks because she was LOSING!!!!! Coupled with the fact that nearly 50% of the country didn't like her before the election even started. Obama had very little to do with the negativity toward Hillary.

Get over it. Obama is the candidate that best supports Hillary's issues. McCain/Palin would seek to destroy everything Hillary fought for.

It's not racist for Hillary voters to vote against Obama. It's just collosally STUPID.

ran   September 22nd, 2008 2:43 pm ET

Unfortunately racism is alive and well in this country.

Anyone who will not vote for Obama because of his race should not be allowed to vote.

Poole4Obama   September 22nd, 2008 2:43 pm ET

Independent –

So what your telling me is that McCain IS ready to lead? Are you serious…

Even if you look at this election as the lesser of two evils… Obama should STILL be your choice.

McCain (and I'll say it because they can't) is an idiot like his predecessor. He has no idea on how to run anything, especially the economy… Jesus, HE SAID THIS HIMSELF!

The government, to avoid panic will never say this, this country is in trouble.

Obama, while maybe not the most experienced, actually uses thought and plans his words carefully… he is an intelligent man, and a man of reason. Not a war hungry ex POW ready to pounce on the first thing that moves in the middle east!

McCain has flip flopped more than a lake trout out of water. Deregulation, Regulation… We are a sound economy, we're in a crisis… Fire the SEC chairman, yada yada yada..

All of the sudden he's a reformer and anti-bush and he's been with the whole family for over 20 years!

And don't get me started on his VP. That's a story for another day.

There I said it.

dian   September 22nd, 2008 2:43 pm ET

Every time the question is asked, "Why Obama is not further ahead" someone should admit that its race as a factor.
It's the answer they're are waiting for….Sorry, I know everyone would like for it not to be his race, but it is…
Let's be honest!

Didine - Maryland   September 22nd, 2008 2:43 pm ET

No doubt race will play a huge role in this election for some people because a lot of whites can not vote for a person of color. They will find all kinds of excuses not to vote for Obama. Other people have put this race issue on the side and will vote for Barack because of issues he is fighting for. But with God's grace, Obama will be our next President.

Mike   September 22nd, 2008 2:43 pm ET

I heard Sean Hannity on the official station of Racism and Ignorance,Fox News. Gushing over Sarah Palin and her wonderfull town of Wasilla Alaska. He spent at least ten minutes going on and on about her beautifull (all white) town that she ran as Mayor. I lived in Alaska for three years. granted Wasilla is pretty in that it is surrounded by beautiful mountains. Wasilla is also the Methamphetamine Ilegal narcotics Capital of Alaska. It has a worst Meth Drug problem than the large city of Anchorage. Now if spin master Sean wants to fawn all over Palin thats fine but if Fox wants to be fair and balnced. then ask Sarah what she did as Mayor to address the horrible drug problem in tiny Wasilla. Sorry Repugs, I am a white guy who drives a pick up truck and lives in a trailer. However I am not ignorant.

YoungGrad   September 22nd, 2008 2:43 pm ET

This couldn't be any more pathetic on America's part.

I'm really upset by this. Really upset.

Stephen   September 22nd, 2008 2:42 pm ET

No one has mentioned that 97% of blacks voted for Obama in the primaries. Racism has been kept alive by the minorities…I know I'm ready to let it die, but every time I'm called a racist because I'm not voting for Obama, it comes right back up.

wow!!!!!!!!!   September 22nd, 2008 2:42 pm ET

GOD SEES NO COLOR…..evangelicals: sinners and racist

barbara   September 22nd, 2008 2:42 pm ET

The American people are to smart to vote against the best candidate because of race. We have to have confidence. We can't afford 4 more years of the same.

Ted:Canada   September 22nd, 2008 2:42 pm ET

As a WHITE OUTSIDER

I am impressed with the amount of white people who support Obama despite his mixed ancestry.

TO YOUR CREDIT!!

Without a single word being said – watching the white people and mixed race people that have come out to support Obama has sent an
IMPORTANT MESSAGE AROUND THE WORLD

An extremely – PROFOUND MESSAGE !!!!!

Coming from a white older Canadian – well done! my friends!

ALL AMERICA SHOULD BE PROUD!

ryan   September 22nd, 2008 2:42 pm ET

This is a silly survey. National percentage points mean nothing. Even if we would be up by 6 percentage points nationally, I'm pretty sure 5.5% of those point can be accounted for in notoriously red states. That's the beauty of the electoral college!!!

Linda, NY   September 22nd, 2008 2:42 pm ET

I would be interested to know if there are an appropriate number of younger voters being polled. I'm trying hard to be optimistic here but I do believe that there may be a group of white people out there who would not admit to their families and friends that behind the curtain they pulled the lever for an American man who happens to be a man of color. If racism brings McSame/Palinator into office we will all be suffering the hangover even if we were not at the party.

Big Bill from Brooklyn   September 22nd, 2008 2:42 pm ET

In many respects, The Civil War completed the first phase of The American Revolution. In many respects, The Civil Rights movement completed the second phase of The American Revolution. In many respects, the willingness of a predominantely white nation to elect a black President would complete the third phase of The American Revolution. I know it is difficult for many Americans — white, black and brown — to contemplate a black President. But Americans do the difficult all the time. We are a great nation, and no matter what the outcome, will be a better nation for having gone through this exercise.

Biff   September 22nd, 2008 2:42 pm ET

I love how people like "yeah right" and "race baiting works" can just BRUSH ASIDE EVERY FINDING THAT DOES NOT FIT INTO THEIR NARRATIVE….

it is SELECTIVE to dismiss FACTS. PERIOD.

it is a fact in America. IT IS A FACT IN AMERICA….

RACISM IS A FACT IN AMERICA !

UP IS UP…. DOWN IS DOWN….. THERE IS RACISM IN AMERICA.

R.I.P. RUSH   September 22nd, 2008 2:42 pm ET

Its sad that in 2008 there are people who still believe those sterotypes about blacks, what's ironic is that most other cultural feel the same way about whites, as whites feel about blacks. ( Mostly lazy thought)

Cindy from NC   September 22nd, 2008 2:42 pm ET

IGNORANCE = BLISS….Those types of people don't care about the economy nor America. They just care about their closey held dimented views.

And for those of you that don' t know…Hillary's campaign threw race in the mix, so knocked it off w/ the nonsense because I was one of those people who were supporting Hillary at first until they pulled that mess because we don't need that kind of division right now and never will.

Susan Thatcher   September 22nd, 2008 2:42 pm ET

I won't vote for Obama because I don't believe that he has the experience or personality to lead the country in these times, not because he is black. My ideal candidate would be Colin Powell. He has the military background, demonstrated leadership abilities, and experience in dealers with foreign leaders and affairs. Were he the candidate I'd vote for him in a heartbeat

Stupid Hockey Mom   September 22nd, 2008 2:41 pm ET

"his credentials and resume are non-existent"= RACISM; DENIAL AT ITS BEST

As for HRC people claiming "reverse racism"- that would wash if sexism wasn't an issue- and she milked that one all the way. Find a new one, traitors!

Palin has more experience than Obama   September 22nd, 2008 2:41 pm ET

The race card has been OVER PLAYED so much. If Obama does not win it does not mean it is due to race. It might mean people saw he has no experience!!!!

College Students for Obama University of Michigan   September 22nd, 2008 2:41 pm ET

Since Senator Obama is both black AND white, those too ignorant to
vote for the black half, can always vote for the white half.

(See how stupid prejudice sounds?)

DEMOCRATS 08. Go Blue!

Kim, Charlotte, NC   September 22nd, 2008 2:41 pm ET

If this is the case, then why isn't McCain ahead?

Jatovi, NC   September 22nd, 2008 2:41 pm ET

It's sad but this is the world we live in. A lot of people only see color. Obama has offered much more than McCain yet the race is close. The world is 80% in favor for Obama, yet here in America many people are so focused on the color of his skin that they will not listen. I think it's really sad when people say "Obama stole the nomination due to reverse- racism," or "Obama played the race card" because then what are you doing when you say that? You are focusing only on his race and even worse trying to tell others to do the same. Listen to what he says. Yes he is black, get over it. He is a very intelligent guy who has great ideas, brings people together, listens, and can lead. If you are one of those who sees Obama only as a black man, then close you eyes and listen to what he says and do the same for McCain, then make you decision. My guess is that you'll vote for Obama if you do this.

brownie   September 22nd, 2008 2:41 pm ET

inuk of the north September 22nd, 2008 2:38 pm ET

Obama will lose because he is the new Jimmy Carter.

And we all remember how good that was, as if.

————————————-
McCain will lose because he is the new/old George Bush.

And we all remember how good that was ….

ZEPPO   September 22nd, 2008 2:41 pm ET

Opompous can’t win. If you look at the AOL straw poll (where McCain is winning every state) and match it against the electoral map and you give Obama every state where he got more than 39 percent of the vote, even then he still looses by a landslide.

The Dems picked the wrong candidate.

OPOMPOUS thought his 3AM text mesage to tell Hillary she is not picked was cute.

OPOMPOUS thought that playing ADDICTED TO LOVE after Bill spoke at the convention was cute.

OPOMPOUS thought that he can call Palin a pig and McCain an old fish and noone would notice because he is sooo cute!

OPOMPOUS thought there was 57 states!

OPOMPOUS has never had a real job!

White Mother for Obama!!   September 22nd, 2008 2:41 pm ET

Sick of the Economy
Sick of Racism
Sick of Lobbyist
Sick of Oil Prices

Sick of Republicans

I am white and I am for Obama!!!
My Husband is white and he is for Obama!!!

Whites for Obama!!! Is that a racist statement???

James   September 22nd, 2008 2:41 pm ET

Who does this article surprise? It can only be the people who do not want to acknowledge that race and racism is still a factor in America.

The polls in West Virginia said over 20% of the Democrats would not vote for Obama because he was Black. In Kentucky it was between 15-17%. And those were just the ones bold enough to admit it.

You don't have to be a racist to not support Obama. But to deny that there are people who are specifically voting against a Black man is juvenile and immoral.

That is the reason he is not 15-20 points up in the polls, apart from the fact this is almost a 50/50 country between Dems and Repubs.

Race does matter. So there are millions of people who will continue to vote against thier own self interest to spite a Black man.

Poor bammy   September 22nd, 2008 2:40 pm ET

Wow… every week or so, someone plays the race card of sympathy for Obama.

Anyone who does not vote for Obama is a racist.

Right.

And EVERYONE who did not vote for HRC and will NOT now vote for Sarah Palin is a SEXIST.

At least racism is not the same evil that sexism is. That is the worst hurdle for any good candidate. No sympathy voters for women.

Find out the facts....   September 22nd, 2008 2:40 pm ET

Like Senator Obama said last night on 60 Minutes.
"There will be people that do not vote for me because I am black and there will be black people that vote for me because I am black…it's a wash."
It is very sad that some in our country still cannot see beyond the color of skin. I am hoping with the next generation starting to vote, they vote with their minds and not with hate of someone merely because they are not "like" them.

Roger   September 22nd, 2008 2:40 pm ET

A 34 year old white man here. I'm not voting for Obama, I'm voting for McCain. I'm not listening to any race cards, so don't even bother. McCain is the change that this country needs. Not some new entry in "Great Moments in Black History".

Interesting   September 22nd, 2008 2:40 pm ET

Obama transcends race people. Let's move forward. If someone is throwing you a life raft do you really care what color they are? If so, you wouldn't live for long. In these tough times….Obama is our life raft – I let go of Bush/McCain and I'm holding onto Obama for dear life.

We all need a real change!!!! Look at the economy and wall street!

Bob   September 22nd, 2008 2:40 pm ET

Not voting for Obama doesn't make you a racist, nobody as claimed that. But if you agree with the Democrats, voted for Hillary, and aren't voting Obama… my guess is your skin is white and your neck has tinge of red

babs-toronto   September 22nd, 2008 2:40 pm ET

Well it's upto to the American people to change their views on racism and think about which candidate will do a better job. Sounds simple enough but the American people have chosen GW for 8 years and that didn't even have anything to do with race. Generally all political pundits and pollsters do believe if Obama was white he would have this election wrapped up at this point and McCain wouldn't stand a chance.

It's doubly important for Barack Obama to stick to the issues and make the American people believe his policies are far better than McCains and only this will take him over the top. As for people not voting for him because of color well let them suffer with their childrens education,healthcare and less money in their pockets and 4 more years of the failed policies of George W Bush.

H. Charles   September 22nd, 2008 2:40 pm ET

First, there no such thing as reverse racism. And if there was such a thing, the first thing you should do as a white person is ask yourself why white people started racism. Second, they don't call Obama a mixed race person because in this country, if your not white, you're black.

Dave   September 22nd, 2008 2:40 pm ET

I would hope that a country that has as diverse a demographic as the United States,a country that was literally built on the backs of immigrants from all over the world,would have finally outgrown such destructive sentiments as racism.That being said,I do have that lingering fear that race will play a larger role in this election than most want to admit.How sad.After eight years of the worst administration in the countries history,you would think the populace would figure it was time for the Republican Party to sit on the sidelines for a term or two.

brownie   September 22nd, 2008 2:39 pm ET

In that case I am more likely not to vote for Whites! IF we make this race about color then whites are the folks I won't vote for ….

Sherry   September 22nd, 2008 2:39 pm ET

Eight houses; 13 cars; trooper-gate; baby-gate; can see Alaska from her house; had no idea with the Bush Doctrine was — and you think race will play into the equation — I can't imagine!

ANGIE   September 22nd, 2008 2:39 pm ET

I find it real sad that some would vote for a man and woman who has done nothing but tell lie after lie, A man that has admitted he doesnt understand the economy, A man that has said the economy is still strong A man who has been against Deregulation his whole senate career, A man who is pretty much in bed with the lobbisit and cares more about them then the people. A woman who has no foreign policy experience, a woman who is clearly lying about trooper gate and thinks she is above the law. ALL BECAUSE BARACK OBAMA IS NOT WHITE ENOUGH SAD VERY VERY SAD AND I AM A 37 YEAR OLD WHITE WOMAN AND I APPROVE THIS MESSAGE!

Obama is REAL Change   September 22nd, 2008 2:39 pm ET

Attention…………….Sarah Palin and African Americans in Alaska…..

This person is NOT an African Americans. He has changed and made comments on most of these blogs flip-flopping against Obama. So now the Republicans are trying to convince voters that the Democrats don't want people who want to vote for Obama isn't welcome, LIE, we welcome your vote. Now they are acting as if they are African Americans making stupid and 2 yrs old comments. When will they ever learn WE are NOT fools this GO round.
Don't forget, the Republicans are acting as if they are Democrats on here, they get paid to tell lies like their candidates, they are paid to act as if they are African Americans now, McCain daughter is one who gets paid a very LARGE amount to help fill these blogs as someone else. So please BEWARE, they are trying ANY means necessary to scare into the White House…

Obama/Biden 08

Obama Rocks!   September 22nd, 2008 2:39 pm ET

I cannot imagine why anyone with an ounce of intelligence would vote for McCain/Palin. Hey, I love Hillary and actually considered voting for McCain when Hillary lost the primary. But the more I watched him, the weirder he seemed. Then came the shock of all shocks, the most irresponsible blunder that clearly showed his desire to win this campaign was stronger than his loyalty to the protection of the country: Sarah Palin. That's when McCain's character came through loud and clear.

Then, the more I listened to Obama, the more impressed I became. What makes me the most ashamed as a women are these ticked off Hillary supporters who feel they are making some kind of statement to punish the Democrat party for taking Hillary away from them. Those women, and men, need to know that by voting for McCain/Palin, they are bringing dishonor upon every bit of work Hillary did for us. They need to keep in mind that this election is not about them, it's about our children and grandchildren and what kind of world we are leaving to them. Hillary is no longer an option, so vote for the person who can carry on her platform.

Obama/Biden 2008

Seriously????   September 22nd, 2008 2:39 pm ET

How does an idiot like "Independent but Leaning" manage to get his totally biased posts onto this site, but mine womehow never quite seem to make it? He might not be racist, but he certainly is ignorant.

Edward   September 22nd, 2008 2:38 pm ET

What hypocrisy!! The son's and daughters of African -American mothers and Fathers, can fight, bleed and die in wars caused by non-African -Americans but non-African Americans can not see themselves electing an African-American to lead this country???? Yet, many call themselves Christians and act as if they are favored by God. What Hypocrisy. For those of you (who sit in churches every Sunday….) who would deny Mr. OBama simply because his pigmentation is darker then yours, ask yourself "WHAT WOULD JESUS DO"?????

Trish Hussein - PA   September 22nd, 2008 2:38 pm ET

Let's hope that there aren't enough racists out there to override the intelligent people the newly registered young voters. God help us all if McCain is elected.

Rose   September 22nd, 2008 2:38 pm ET

I just want to remind everyone that anthropologists and archaeologists have PROVEN we are ALL DESCENDED from the same AFRICAN WOMAN. This is undisputed fact based on DNA research.

Obama/Biden08

IF THEY ARE THAT STUPID, THEY DESERVE ....   September 22nd, 2008 2:38 pm ET

"OUT OF MANY, ONE PEOPLE." IF FOLKS ARE THAT STUPID, THEN THEY DESERVE WHATEVER THEY GET, HERE COMES THE GREAT DEPRESSION. THE GOVERNMENT IS TRYING TO PUT A BAND-AID ON THESE ECONOMIC PROBLEMS UNTIL ELECTION DAY, STUPID!!!

LBowie   September 22nd, 2008 2:38 pm ET

Mitchell, I love you comment. Thank you my fellow American.
A color-blind African-American. Scratch that … AMERICAN!

Sweetgreen   September 22nd, 2008 2:38 pm ET

To everyone that didn't read the article and say the race card is being played. There is no race card, this was a poll conducted by Yahoo in which people answered questions about race! It just goes to show, some people only see and hear what they want to and are as dumb as a box of rocks.

reverse racism is what I see   September 22nd, 2008 2:38 pm ET

Based on experience, qualifications, track-record and achievements- Obama would get ZERO votes.

So I fail to see that race is anything other than an advantage for Obama.

And the media will play it up to gain him even more votes.

jim, kansas city MO   September 22nd, 2008 2:38 pm ET

First of all to get this out of the way, I was engaged to a black woman from Africa, just so I am not called racist, she moved for school to East Coast I stayed in Mid-West and long distance did not work.

Now we have to be honest, only reason Obama won in primaries was because of his color, do you see anywhere in news besides Shawn Hannity, nobody dares to criticize his ideas or his past, because they might get accused they are racist. Hannity is accused by many black folks that he is racist. How can someone win more than 92% of black vote in primaries against Hillary, African Americans have benefited a lot under Clinton administration, but black candidate came along and what do you know.

I know one thing, if Obama unvelived his economic plan this last week, and McCain chose to play it safe and see what happens, what side of isle to go, you would never hear the end from Obama-bots and media. He is the same agreeing with Bush. Let not forget this stimulus package to rescue Wall Street is compiled from Bush administration, that Obama is waiting to take a stand and see how it works. But in other side has accused McCain that he is same as Bush. What do commentators say, Obama is being cautious with this situation and analyzing everything, being presidential.

It is like that old saying, two broads were fighting and this guy was sitting to the sidelines, one of them asked him why dont you separate them, he answered I am waiting to see who looses so I can h.,, her

I guess questions here is, will he stand for anything?

I think there are elements of racism on both sides, if you dont agree with this, your either ignorant or stupid, or both.

Probably this comment will never see the light of day on Obama newscorporation – CNN.

Stacy in So Cal   September 22nd, 2008 2:38 pm ET

Does the color of a mans' skin really matter? Come on America wake up! Smart Americans have had enough of the Republican philosophy, it's time we elect someone with the intelligence to back up the education they received in college. Just because you are educated and experienced, doesn't mean you are intelligent. The world is full of educated derelicts; take for example the Bush administration.

Obama/Biden 08!!!

inuk of the north   September 22nd, 2008 2:38 pm ET

Obama will lose because he is the new Jimmy Carter.

And we all remember how good that was, as if.

He will lose because no one plays more games with taxes than Obama and Pelosi and Reid.

This bailout for billionaires(!!!!) cost each American $3300. So much for the $600 stimulus cheques! I get $600 and they get a TRILLION dollars!!!

And now Pelosi, Reid and Obama and Biden want another stimulus bill? I've had all the stimulus I can handle, because I know it will have to get paid back in taxes, taxes and more taxes.

The Republicans are comedic GOLD!   September 22nd, 2008 2:38 pm ET

And even with all the prejudice he is ahead of McSame.
Florida Hockey Mom disgusts me with her “our boy” comment.

Larry, Ft. Lauderdale   September 22nd, 2008 2:37 pm ET

If one-third of the population votes against Senator Obama because of
race, I take comfort in knowing that two-thirds of the the rest of us
are behind him 100%. Let's send the republicans packing.

Democrats 2008.

Stop The Spin   September 22nd, 2008 2:37 pm ET

Obama will need the younger voters … those under 45 … to come out in unprecidented numbers to overcome the ingrained prejudices of SOME of the older generation.

Fortunately, I believe the polls are undercounting that segment of the electorate due to the level of cell phones as their primary phone number among younger people.

If we can purge America's racist past, there are brighter days ahead for this great country of ours.

BOBBY K. FROM BIRMINGHAM, AL.   September 22nd, 2008 2:37 pm ET

Thanks CNN for not posting my comments!!!!!!!
I hope CNN realize that everybody has an opininion!!!!!
I donn't care if OBAMA IS OF MIXED CULTURE!!!!
I want to be able to come to work, have a home, and extra money in my pocket to survive!!! I have voted DEMOCRACT since 1992!!!!!
I REMEMBER the 90's and how things were better then the 2000's!!!
I know that race plays a factor in thuis election!!! You see this is what change is all about!!! Let someone of another color get a chance to clean up this 8 year old mess we are in!!!!!
People quit holding on to the past and so called manifest destination!!! The mighty either adapts or falls holding on to surperiority complex!!!!!!
Let's see if CNN post this?
I've seen worst comments then mines

Amy, NYC   September 22nd, 2008 2:37 pm ET

OOOOh now i know why McCain came up with this ad trying to paint Obama as a scary black man from Chicago. I see, anything that brings vote is good enough. (watch SNL if you don't see what I mean) Well…I hate to break this to you, but the people who are going to be voting for Obama in the general election are the same who have been voting in the primary, and who elected him. Obama is up in Iowa, 95% white.

A vote for Obama is a vote for America. This is not about one man but about a whole nation.I believe in the American people.

Let's unite and put our country back on track! Yes we Can!

Get it Straight   September 22nd, 2008 2:37 pm ET

The word is "biracial". That means of "two races". Maybe if we try to convice the bigots of thic country to consider the 50% white side,and finally to LOOK AT THE ISSUES AND NOT COLOR, he'll have a better shot at their vote!

Kerry in VA   September 22nd, 2008 2:37 pm ET

Racism will always be alive and well in this country, but yet we try to tell other countries how they should live. Seems hypocrital of to do that. I was always told to clean up your own house before you try to clean up someone else house. For those of you that do not feel like a black man can do the job look at what the white man has done to this country for last eight years. When are you all going to start to judge a man by his character and not the color of his skin? I guess it too much to ask for in this country.

A. Little   September 22nd, 2008 2:37 pm ET

I dont buy it….I think that an ignorant person will make a judgement of such sorts. Does this say that 40% of the population of white people is ignorant. I am sorry CNN, i believe we are better than this in America.

w.l. jones   September 22nd, 2008 2:36 pm ET

When we are over sea there is only one race and that an American. Why we cannot apply those same principle back home? Said enough.

ednadavid   September 22nd, 2008 2:36 pm ET

It is unfortunate that some White Americans cannot see that in voting for Barack Obama – they vote an entire party in – white, black and everything else in between. I cannot believe that in the 21st century we are willing to suffer through another 4 years of grief, pain and hardship simply because we do not want to vote a man into the presidency due to his race. we would be willing to suffer at a personal level because of our attitudes toward race. When will be able to see the "bigger picture" and opt for the clearly better alternative – the Democratic Party.

TheTruthHurts   September 22nd, 2008 2:36 pm ET

So is this playing the race card? Just asking because it's almost like you can't mention that America is a racialized society without being accused of something. This will heal someday, but it will be after a couple of generations die off.

kobensi   September 22nd, 2008 2:36 pm ET

If any body thinks that racism is out of America, he she is wasting his time. I work a decent job and everyday i see racism between african americans v/s africans, whites v/s african americans, whites v/s asians, whites v/s muslims, african americans v/s asians, muslims v/s african americans. whites v/s hispanics, african americans v/s hispanics. The only group where i find less amount of racism is between african v/s hispanics, africans v/s muslims and hispanics v/s muslims. Asians, whties and africans americans are the most racial segment of race in America. These group of race practices the highest rate of racism in America.

YOLA   September 22nd, 2008 2:35 pm ET

Obama has said that this is an improbable journey and that is an understatement. 19 months ago, NO ONE expected this Black dude to get through the primary much less to become the Democratic nominee. He has gotten where he is mainly because of White people; let us not underestimate America. Yes, there are people who will not support him and may even vote against him because he is Black, but many of those same people voted against him in the Primary. I have faith in the American voters, the majority will vote for their best interest and for the person they feel can help to heal us as a Nation and help to heal our global reputation.

USA in 08   September 22nd, 2008 2:35 pm ET

It is sad that at this point in our history, racism is still so rampant. Obama will win despite this and maybe he can actually cause some positive change during his term(s) that helps us to further elimnate racism.

Obama or Canada in '08

Just a shame, Just a shame   September 22nd, 2008 2:35 pm ET

Just a shame that we as a society wouldn't want to vote the best person into the white house based on race. We would rather suffer, economically, socially, continue to kill our servicemen and women in an unjust war, have our status around the world fall even farther than it has already just because the person that could change this is Black.

I would say unbelievable but I given our history I can't. I'm just say I'm ashamed for us in the world's eyes.

AA   September 22nd, 2008 2:35 pm ET

It is a REAL handicap for him among African Americans.

i understand that they will ALL be voting for McCain this year- based on experience and qualifications.

Nelson Colorado Springs Co   September 22nd, 2008 2:35 pm ET

This question should not have came up.verybody can see he a person of color. I'm surprise it took so long for this question to be ask. Race is a factor, But Sen Obama is more white than black he was born of white woman, not a black woman. His father by black because of the color of his skin he is generally identified as black. Some America will use the color of his for not voting for him. This is America Get out and vote Stick with the issue, vote Sen Obama/Biden you want CHANGE or the same old thing. GO Obama/Biden

newsnut   September 22nd, 2008 2:35 pm ET

If 99.9% of African Americans are voting for B.H.Obama, isn't that already proof that Race is the major factor in this Election? Or is this a trick question to insinuate that most Americans are bigots and don't like African Americans cause their Black? The Sly Dogs, B.H.O. Zombies, will distort, connive and shyster Americans with underhanded, We gonna get ours, mentality. A hard core group that only shames our forefathers, who died to set them free.

Americans are a JOKE to Foriegn Countries   September 22nd, 2008 2:35 pm ET

This is why America is in the condition that it's in, it is hated by other countries and the economy is down the tubes. This country is not the UNITED STATES because you will only show support for people who look like you. What really gats to me is the nerve of Hispanics thinking they are better than Blacks because some numb nut suggested that Hispanics came here seeking diplomacy and Blacks were bought here as slaves. The Hispanics stole their way into this country and they still are, the blacks were bought here against their will. Black people are proud of their heritage no matter how they came to this country. The Hispanics are afraid to vote against white politicians because they think they have the power to send them back to their countries but hwat they don't know is that the white politicians are the one who want to send them back. Also what makwes them think that we will ever have a Hispanic President if they don't support Barack a Hispanic candidate will never get the " black vote". They will soon find out that they are not wanted here anymore than blacks are. This country is so racist it's shameful and it's nothing to be proud of. States like Kentucky , W Virginia, Pennsylvania to name a few pride themselves on being racist but they are laughed at as being "stupid rednecks". If Barack loses this election Ameirca will be talked about from now until the end of time.

Anonymous   September 22nd, 2008 2:35 pm ET

DJ Los Angeles September 22nd, 2008 2:17 pm ET

"…Obama is of mixed race — his mother was white, his father black — he is generally identified as black."

Why does the media NEVER call Obama mixed race?
——————

Setting aside your contradiction of yourself, the reason he is called black is because America still subscribes to the ancient "one drop" rule. He is part black, so in America, that makes you black in most people's eyes.

Along with that comes all the wonderful benefits and joys of being a minority here in the land of the sheep and the home of the Tased.

Daniel   September 22nd, 2008 2:34 pm ET

What about all the people who voted for him BECAUSE he's black? If you want to talk racism at the voting booth, just look at the race divide in the primaries.

race baiting works   September 22nd, 2008 2:34 pm ET

Obama's race is the MOST attractive thing about him for many voters.

His credentials and resume are NON-existent.

Obama is being propelled by the history-making potential of his half black ethnicity- nothing more.

Hillary   September 22nd, 2008 2:34 pm ET

Independent but leaning
Wake up did you not see the coverage in Ohio where the reporter asked a grouop of white men in a diner if the were voting for Obama and they said no they don't like black people and in that same poll 1/3 of democrats said they would not vote for Obama because he is black. So yes here we go again…there are still ignorant racist people in this world who would rather live in failing economy then vote for someone who wants to make a change for the better for all people. Not just the wealthy. Are you one of those people?

peggy   September 22nd, 2008 2:34 pm ET

As a white, working woman over sixty, and from OHIO I will be very proud to cast my ballot for Obama. I look at a person's heart and soul and not their skin color. He is a good, christian man and he will make a great leader. I look forward to his inauguration in January – a wonderful moment in American history.

Sandy   September 22nd, 2008 2:34 pm ET

Yeah, right…I bet you hate Affirmative Action too, right? Give me a break!

N.S of Huntsville, Al   September 22nd, 2008 2:34 pm ET

THIS IS THE PART OF AMERICA NO ONE CAN REALLY STAND. AN MCCAIN IS SO GLAD FOR THOSE 40% RACIST VOTES. HE CAN HAVE THEM. IF YOUR A RACIST THATS YOUR PROBLEM GET A LIFE. BUT STOP BLAMING BLACKS FOR EVERYTHING. BLACKS ARE THE MOST FORGIVING PEOPLE AND THE MOST OPPRESSED BUT WE KEEP MOVING STRONG. OBAMA CAN'T DWELL ON THAT BS HE HAS TO STAY FOCUSED AND KEEP FIGHTING FOR ALL PEOPLE LIKE HE HAS BEEN, DOING. AND MOST WHITE RACIST PEOPLE ARE THE POOR ONES THAT NEED OBAMAS HELP AND LOOKS LIKE HIS EDUCATIONAL PLAN. THE IGNORANT DUM REPUBLICAN PARTY DON'T CARE ABOUT ANYTHING OTHER THEN OIL, DRILLING, WAR AND GRED. SO JUST DON'T GO TO CHURCH ACTING LIKE YOU LOVE JESUS AND YOU CAN'T GET OVER SOMEONES SKIN COLOR. THAT STATEMENT IS A FACT CAN'T DISPUTE FACTS

Stop The Spin   September 22nd, 2008 2:34 pm ET

I've gotta go at this 90% of black people are voting for Obama thing as justification that he's unfairly benefitting from his race.

Senator Obama is the Democratic nominee folks …. and guess what percentage of African Americans voted for the white male Democrats in 2000 (Gore) or 2004 (Kerry) ? … about 90% …. So he has no "advantage" that hasn't existed in the past.

In retrospect, it seems those black voter made the smarter choice too!

Peter, VA   September 22nd, 2008 2:34 pm ET

DOES IT REALLY MATTER WHO THROWS A DROWNING MAN A LIFE
RAFT? Wake up America. The republicans are drowning us all.

Democrats 08.

Brandon   September 22nd, 2008 2:33 pm ET

Florida Hockey Mom, I just donated more $ to Obama's campaign thanks to your annoying post. :) Get a clue before you turn on the computer.

Not so much   September 22nd, 2008 2:33 pm ET

A woman- no matter what race she is- would never have gotten this far on so little merit.

Obama was given every advantage, promoted in every possible way, protected and defended- all because the nation wants to make history with the first (half) black president.

Let's be honest here. His race provides more of an advantage to Obama among many Americans than it provides a handicap.

wendy spice   September 22nd, 2008 2:33 pm ET

Democrats against Obama r the ones that r raciest if it was a white man there would be no problem 4 democrats to win this election period, if Obama loose this election i think all black people should take a good look @ the country they live in and stay away from voting.

Rob   September 22nd, 2008 2:33 pm ET

Of course it will. Because the left, the news media, all the Obama koolaid drinkers cannot accept the fact that their chosen one does not have any experience. He won't lose because enough people aren't fooled by his lies, deceptions, and extreme lack of knowledge, it will of course be because of his skin color.

The Democrat Party…we go after every single hair-brained excuse for losing an election except for the truth (we can't do the job).

Scott NYC Independent   September 22nd, 2008 2:33 pm ET

If Social Security were private and invested in the stock market as the republicans wanted it would have lost millions since Bush has been in office. Did everyone forget the crash the market had both times when Bush stole the elections. Now Americans would vote for McCain who will do the same as Bush to our image, economy and health care system if not worse. But, you will vote for him because of his skin. Those very same people that felt reverse discrimination was wrong will now discriminate again with an entire country at risk.

Ian Minneapolis, MN   September 22nd, 2008 2:32 pm ET

Haha McCain befifits from racism. Thats funny haha.

S WA ST White Women   September 22nd, 2008 2:32 pm ET

It's sad to me. I grew up with racist parents. But I am an adult now and see how wrong it is. My Parents were republicians and only voted that way because of there religious values. I have scince showed my mother how wrong it is, though it is tough sometimes to change the way she is. I am proud to say she is voting Obama this fall !! People if you talk to one another you can make a difference. Even if it is only one person thats still change…

Roger   September 22nd, 2008 2:32 pm ET

I smell another race card in this ad. The poor black people are so mistreated. We should all give a black man a role of leadership because he is black. Then we would be sending out a message of hope and change. Economy is just an excuse to vote for a black man. His teleprompter isn't going to help our economy.

It is sad that Hollywood chooses our leaders with all of the drugs, meaningless sex, and violence that Hollywood teaches our future leaders of America. Are Americans actually listening to what Lohan is telling them? How many times has Lohan been in rehab? Our country is ruined.

Abby   September 22nd, 2008 2:32 pm ET

Nobody said it would be easy.

Obama 08!!!

Janine   September 22nd, 2008 2:32 pm ET

I don't remember any race-baiting.

Yeah, right – please enlighten me.

Beth   September 22nd, 2008 2:32 pm ET

White woman in Michigan who is proud to be ColorBlind!

Obama/Biden 08

alvino   September 22nd, 2008 2:32 pm ET

John (the Panamanian Prevaricator) McCain and Sarah (Ted Stevens Jr.) Palin need to offer more than just being white.

Mikey   September 22nd, 2008 2:32 pm ET

Florida Hockey Mom September 22nd, 2008 2:18 pm ET
Our boy Barack ………………………………
_____________________________________________
Let's see, the article is about the impact of racism on the election and you call Senator Obama "Our boy Barack"??????? Were you trying to illustrate the point?

Question regarding your point – who determines what investments are acceptable? If people are allowed to direct a portion of their SS funds into specific investments, what happens if they do suffer material losses near to retirement time? Do they have to live on even less than SS? Does America have the stomach to allow those people to live half starving on our streets? Would we end up supporting them anyway – increasing our costs? Would only more well off people be allowed to do this? Can't they do that anyway with their own savings, their 401k, 403b, IRA, etc.?

Live and let live   September 22nd, 2008 2:31 pm ET

It's strange that the story about McCain trailing Obama in key states failed to mention the new poll that came out today, Sept. 22, that shows McCain has a 6 percent lead over Obama in Ohio, one of the most key states of all. Or maybe it isn't so strange. Compare with a stop watch how much time the television stations stories about Obaba last compared to those about McCain. Network news in particular. NPR – National Public Radio — "fairness" in coverage is a JOKE! We listen — my husband is devoted to NPR so it's on a good bit of the time. So much of the media coverage of this campaign is far from evenhanded. If you question this, check it out yourself with your watch.

Dr. W   September 22nd, 2008 2:31 pm ET

Racial misgivings? Why try to sanitize bigotry? Sure it's a part of America and it makes us inferior to many other socities. The good news is most of it is in red states that wouldn't vote for a Democrat anyway.

ines   September 22nd, 2008 2:31 pm ET

When it gets down to it, we are ALL descendents of the same one race. The easy way to say that 'race' may play a role in the election.

But the more truthful way to put it would be a 'fear of change' vote.

Thing is – IF we do not change, our country is obviously on a plummenting decline. Our country will crash and burn – just like the stock market. We have to change to protect and grow each one of our lifestyles.

Rob   September 22nd, 2008 2:30 pm ET

I don't care if Obama is purple with pink polka dots, he's smart. Compared to McCain spending more than two decades to deregulate our financial institutions, and now claiming he'll regulate and fix the quagmire he helped create, there is no need to choose. The answer is obvious, Obama, the man with the thoughtful plan.

Racism is bad, sexism is cool.   September 22nd, 2008 2:30 pm ET

Apparently not THAT big or Obama- with his lack of experience, lack of achievements, no track record or accomplishments- would NEVER be where he is today if he were NOT half black.

His race has been what has unfairly advantaged him.

Ask the women candidates what they have had to endure from the media and from the hateful misogynists.

Mary   September 22nd, 2008 2:30 pm ET

WOW! I feel sorry for all the racists in the world. I know you will have to love everyone if you want to see Jesus. This will be a lot of people down falls. God is no respector of person he has no favorites and he can't dwell where there is no love. IT IS TIME FOR A CHANGE!

Rudy NYC   September 22nd, 2008 2:30 pm ET

Really? I would have never guessed.

Policy not prejudice   September 22nd, 2008 2:30 pm ET

And most African americans are voting for who?

Andrew   September 22nd, 2008 2:30 pm ET

People are crazy. The Clintons used race against Obama, and when he objected they said he was playing the race card? How? Others say that age should be off-limits? Why? Just because it's illegal to discriminate according to age? It's not discrimination not to elect an old man who is slipping to a job that calls for 18-20 hour work days and a clear mind.

Praetorian, Fort Myers   September 22nd, 2008 2:30 pm ET

What a bunch of crap.
I have a low opinion of any race(white, black, hispanic, martian, venusian)–who pretend to be gangstas, were their pants so the cracks of their butts are showing, identify with profanity, drugs, violence– and do not know how to speak or enunciate the language.

Ken   September 22nd, 2008 2:30 pm ET

"Racist" Joeseph? I will not call you that; but I will call you a dunce. It seems your idea of getting "away from the 2 party dictatorship we currently are suffering from" is to denigrate Obama? Just who are you voting for then? More of the same failure we've experienced for the last 8 years? Or are you one of those repentant G. Bush voters living in Dumbf-kistan and searching for the next [R]ightwing neo-tard to lead you and this country to its destruction? The only "dictatotship" this country suffers from is a dictatorship of stupidity: from the [R]ight, and from the people who vote that way.

Skunk Meat Anyone?   September 22nd, 2008 2:30 pm ET

This is GREAT News for McGimmick and his skunk meat campaign where LIES COMES BEFORE COUNTRY!

Unmoved Democrat   September 22nd, 2008 2:30 pm ET

Yeah, right posted: "Obama stole the nomination due to reverse- racism." What is reverse-racism? There is no such thing. Racism is racism plain and simple, and you sir/ma'm are an idiot.

Hillary & Barack supporter   September 22nd, 2008 2:29 pm ET

TO: YEAH, RIGHT, get a life and move on or leave the USA with that bitter attitude of yours.

FreeNLovIt   September 22nd, 2008 2:29 pm ET

For National Security purpose, we need to move this country out of an oil-based economy.

If Gore was elected in 2000, we would have been so far out and beat all foreigners. We would have all HAVE instant internet infrastructures, moving at the speed of light. We would have had cars, running less on oil..

Choose your leaders wisely… as stated in the Bible, with a wise leader, we benefit, with a foolish leader, we all suffer.

PS from Tennessee   September 22nd, 2008 2:29 pm ET

Yes, there are still bigots and racists in America, but who has been running this Country for 200 years – WHITE MEN!

I am white and have supported Obama since I saw him speak at the 2004 Democratic Convention. I hoped he would run for President in my lifetime. This year will be the most important vote that I have cast in my lifetime.

Obama 08

Vegas Barbie for Obama   September 22nd, 2008 2:29 pm ET

It is sad to see, but sadder to know it is true, and that Senator Obama must know the same, despite his honorable and hopeful response to the "race question" in the 60 Minutes interview, as is evidenced by Obama closing his campaign offices in North Dakota, when it is clear he will not win there, in part because it is a Republican state, but in part, I am sure, because of race issues. But what do you expect from a state where there are more livestock than people…oh well, as has been said, we've come a long way….but….
I still believe though, that 5 weeks from tomorrow, we will elect Sens. Obama and Biden to their rightful seats in the White House in DC.

p.s. to McCain Bill1991 September 22nd, 2008 2:16 pm ET

you wrote: "….i hope for the sake of the people who feel that way that Jesus does not come back as a Black man, what would you do then?"

my note: …remember, Jesus was JEWISH, born in the middle east, in ISRAEL, so he was already a brother of some color the first time around….

Not Even Close   September 22nd, 2008 2:29 pm ET

Obama is head and shoulders better than McCain as a candidate for the Presidency.

brenda   September 22nd, 2008 2:29 pm ET

September 22nd, 2008 2:14 pm ET

So sad… to think some people are actually still so ignorant they wouldn't vote for someone based on race.
________________________.
Even sadder is the fact that so many would vote for someone based on race.

Freedom Lovin Patriot   September 22nd, 2008 2:28 pm ET

SAD TO SAY but that's the depth of some people's intellegence.

SOMEONE ACTUALLY SAID TO ME I want a president with an "American" sounding name– what I would do to erase that memory (what I would do to erase that person)

Tired   September 22nd, 2008 2:28 pm ET

It's sad that my daughter will have to hear one day that she can not attend a school or be a memeber of a social group because she is black……. what exactly do these racists voters and non voters think is going to happen when he becomes president…..maybe he will be fair to all americans……uh

BHO: Ignorance is Bliss   September 22nd, 2008 2:28 pm ET

Making race a issue cnn, is going to detour your cause… it wont get BHO elected… you will actually piss people off.

Grandma for O   September 22nd, 2008 2:28 pm ET

CNN please post for once:

The 800lb elephant in the room. I'm so tired of people including the CNN anchors and anlysts who keeping bringing up the question, "Why isn't Barack farther ahead?".

Take a little quess. When you have 40% of the people who hold somewhat of a negative view on African Americans and when over 30% have said race plays a part in their decision on who to elect, we all know why Barack isn't 15 points ahead right now.

Yeah right – there is no such thing as reverse racism, there is only racism – how about educating yourself.

Obama didn't play any race card. I'm tired of people attributing everything ANY black person said to him. Guess what he doesn't know every black person because he's black.

Once again, I suggest you get educated.

Tom   September 22nd, 2008 2:28 pm ET

This is sad. I keep waiting for all the bigots to die off, but seems like there's a new one born every minute. We can thank the proud-to-be-stupid crowd for that.

Scott NYC Independent   September 22nd, 2008 2:28 pm ET

Sadly some would follow McCain to the gates of hell (where Bin Laden isn't) instead of Obama to stablity, global respect and financial security. They would doom a nation because of the color of a man's skin. We may all suffer for the prejudice of some. God help us.

Sad so very sad   September 22nd, 2008 2:28 pm ET

What do you want from people who voted twice for Bush and love a Palin who puts women back 40 years. If America blows it by voting McCain then they deserve everything they get.. the clock is ticking.. stupid is as stupid does..

SAB   September 22nd, 2008 2:28 pm ET

Racism is the cancer that will cause the demise of this country. If people are that sick to vote color versus the issues than we get just what we deserve. No good can possibly come out of it when people vote based on color.

OBAMA 2008   September 22nd, 2008 2:28 pm ET

Of course race will play a factor!! In stead on looking at the facts and what he stands for people are looking at the color of his skin! It is everyday life to those who are a minority and deal with it in their everyday lives. Its just good to see that it is starting to come to the light for others. But I think it is and Obama has proven this a fact.

AMERICA CAN CHANGE!!!

Marilyn   September 22nd, 2008 2:28 pm ET

CNN aren't these polls conducted on registered voters, which doesn't include all new registrants? I think this should be clarified and mentioned as to who was polled.

This race thing is a ploy and seems very republican. Just how many Americans if you really think about it are not, bi-racial or multi-racial, this is a non-issue!

DJ Los Angeles   September 22nd, 2008 2:27 pm ET

Sure there are a small % of bigots that vote Democrat but the ovewhelming majority vote Republican. Republicans I know admit and concede that. I disagree with impact race plays in this election as a result.

LBowie   September 22nd, 2008 2:27 pm ET

Something the majority of minorities was already aware of. The big fat elephant with lipstick no one wants to address. How can society of today base their choices on race, even if it goes against what they are fighting for. Jeez this ticks me off…

LA Hispanic Conservative Female   September 22nd, 2008 2:27 pm ET

I wish people would stop throwing around the obvious, who really cares about the color, age or gender of the candidate's? It is what it is, and the more you focus on itm the more it BECOMES an issue. What matters is the ideals, ethics, character and past experience of the person tryiny to get the job. There will be those folks who will embrace someone only because they are or they are not like them – so what? Let them do what they want (we live in a free country). If that makes them feel good, so be it…. I wish Obama would stop his insecure comments about his funny name and that her doesn't look like anyone on our dollar bils etc… it has to begin with him (period).

skeptical white guy.   September 22nd, 2008 2:27 pm ET

Now this is an issue? 18 million plus Americans didn't think so earlier this year. Or are they ALL colorblind. See Dr. King's "I have a dream " speech. Being black is simply an excuse for why you didn't want to vote for Obama. If you are really scared of his skin tone and you don't want to vote for McCain, simply vote for Ralph Nader or Bob Barr. Only in the South… yeah we are probably to blame for climate change, locusts, and hurricanes too.

sara, az   September 22nd, 2008 2:27 pm ET

For far too long the Republican pundits have said (with barely disguised glee) — but WHY is the race so close???

Even my kids and husband have asked, why is this race so close? (all of us are post-racism white Democrats).

and each time, the answer is the same: racism.

So here's the fix to those of you who can't seem to vote for Obama because of his race: vote for his white half and forget about skin color for God's sake. Why would you rather have someone with obvious cognitive disorders in the White House???

jos-bam   September 22nd, 2008 2:27 pm ET

We already that.If Obama wasn,t white the race wouldn't be tight…Many people do not care about the issue.they just don,t like Obama because he is black…..So sad for this country !!! America wake up…

Damain Daniels   September 22nd, 2008 2:27 pm ET

It is very true that race is diffently going to ba a factor in this election and one of the only ways that we are going to ba able to avoid what is going to happen on election day. THERE ARE GOING TO BE PEOPLE WHO VOTE ONLY ON RACE AND THER ARE GOING TO BE THOSE WHO VOTE BECAUSE OF PRIDE IN RACE. NOV.4 IS GOINT TO BE A BIGHT WHERE HARLY ANYONE SLEEPS

cmc   September 22nd, 2008 2:27 pm ET

typical, your pocketbooks, gas tanks, etc. are empty and you can't vote for yourselves and your future because fo "color" . Are we in 2008 or 1950″s. THis country is so screwed up, and the race card is being played.!!!!!!!!!!!! Ridculous!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Shari, NY   September 22nd, 2008 2:27 pm ET

Pardon me for straying a bit but this is an answer to “what next” who wonders why Sen. Obama is withholding his revelation of a more in depth economic plan: 1) As the scrambling still unfolds he has to tread with caution; 2) if it sounds good, guess what – Bonnie and Clyde will STEAL the plan. Trust me!

Duh, it's the only issue...   September 22nd, 2008 2:27 pm ET

You're kidding right??? The ONLY thing that will keep Obama out of the White House is old school thinking.

If Obama was a white man this race would be over.

Hillary lost because she is old school with old school thinking (like racism).

Yes, racism is alive and well in this country, but better believe racism will soon die.

Los   September 22nd, 2008 2:27 pm ET

I have a friend who's been saying that this election is no longer an election, but a census. It will count how many people are still holding on to a romanticized vision of an America that never really existed, and how many are ready to have America turn into what it has been becoming for the past 40 years. If McCain wins, then it means we're just not ready for the future.

OF COURSE, RACE IS AN ISSUE, ALTHO, I DO NOT SEE WHY!   September 22nd, 2008 2:27 pm ET

The man is bi-racial! For the high information voter, he is a person of color as well as Caucasian! For low information voters, he is half black and half white and for the Bubba’s he was a “swirl baby” before he grew up to be “uppity”(arrogant is another favorite word for uppity). Now, hopefully we are all on the same page as to the meaning of bi-racial,

So unless you are a little green alien from Mars(hopefully, a small voting bloc), the cries of racist are not justified.

FreeNLovIt   September 22nd, 2008 2:27 pm ET

We elected OIL-BASED politicians and this destroyed our economy. Why do you want to give 4 more years to TWO OIL-based politicans, McBushain and PalCheney?

McCain's dad died at 71-72. If McCain dies in office. Palin will inherit the throne. She had a D in economics and her state is an oil-based state with no diverse economy. If she leads the country, our economy will suffocate. She doesnt have what it takes to move the country forward. She doesnt understand the dynamics of economics.

CAPTAIN CAPSLOCK   September 22nd, 2008 2:26 pm ET

wow Florida hockey mom,

I guess you are in that 2.5% not voting for Obama because he's got some dark skin..

"boy"? Take your racism elsewhere.

Dave , Tampa   September 22nd, 2008 2:26 pm ET

Voters should vote their circumstances, and not their prejudices. In this
case, the circumstances of most Americans are similar: Job loss,
foreclosure, bad economy, storm damage, bad Republican leadership.
These dire circumstances so far has not discriminated by race. One
trap that voters should not fall into is racial division by the Republican Party. The repuclicans screwed all races of people evenly. We should vote accordingly.

Democrats of ALL races dump the Republicans 08.

Daniel va   September 22nd, 2008 2:26 pm ET

Peoples are not fool enough to vote for four more years of lies. Ready for change yes, for the twenty first century, yes. for the best candidate, yes.So the race have no place, when you look for the future and not the past…

mitchell   September 22nd, 2008 2:26 pm ET

i put my money on the guy who plays basketball,before the guy who plays shuffleboard,anyday! barack is fast. he will win any race against mccain.

JP   September 22nd, 2008 2:26 pm ET

Obama could be purple or green – I don't care what colour he is. He is brilliant and honest and has a great vision for where this country needs to go to get out of the mess the Republicans have made. They had their chance – and we all can see the outcome of their ideas.

Anna PA   September 22nd, 2008 2:25 pm ET

I don't even know what to think about this. Is this country still this backwards?? What is wrong with all of you white people who can't get over skin color. Barrack Obama is the clear leader.

John McCain can't even make eye contact with the people he is talking to or the camera he is suppose to be looking at. It's because he doesn't believe what he is saying. His message just keeps changing. What kind of leadership is that.

Anyone who is stuck on skin color should be nothing but ashamed of themselves. Our country is falling apart and you will vote to put the people back into the white house that have created our possible destruction.

Throughout history democrats fix the messes that republicans get us into. If you want the country to improve vote for Obama and get over yourself. Your white skin isn't as great as you think it is.

Lisa   September 22nd, 2008 2:25 pm ET

This is truly sad. I hope this won't be the case. This is not about race it is about doing what is right for the country. People please be smarter than what this poll is suggesting.

CitizenS   September 22nd, 2008 2:25 pm ET

That is ok if a person wants to cling to their own racial, ethnic or cultural backgrounds. This will ground them well when they will need all the fortitude the can get to survive a Mccain Administration. But, I think the American people are NOT stupid. They will vote for the right of their country to be the power it is supposed to be with a strong economic foundation. It is call voting for R-E-S-P-E-C-T which is what we need to survive in this world of nuclear-waiting-to-happen war. Obama/Biden – the SENSIBLE choice.

Obama is REAL Change   September 22nd, 2008 2:25 pm ET

TRUE, those who suffer worst then most of us are going to vote for a Republican AGAIN, when we have been through HELL for the last eight years. Sadly, because of their selfish prejudice attitude we may be looking at another four more years of OLD/with so called NEW of the SAME from Bush vote along with me over 90% of the time.

When you care nothing about something that will have a HUGE negative impact on your life, it's sad that prejudice will take control at the voting booth.

Casey Henniker, NH   September 22nd, 2008 2:25 pm ET

Well, I'm naive but I can't help but think that this might balance out a little with people who are going to vote for Obama because he's black.

Also I wonder about the amount of people, normally racist, who will ultimately chuck aside their prejudices because they believe the country's on the wrong track. Maybe there are people who are racist due to some kind of peer pressure and will secretly pull the Obama lever. I know this will be a small number but there's got to be some folks like that out there.

I refuse to accept that Americans can be this stupid for three elections in a row.

Shari, NY   September 22nd, 2008 2:25 pm ET

Forty years from now race will not be much of an issue when minorities will be in the majority. The following of Republican rallies would be interesting to see then.

Sarah Bell   September 22nd, 2008 2:25 pm ET

Race? Really? I had no idea. Is Obama black or something?? He'll be fine. There are no racists in this country. Race only plays a factor when people decide who they want to be President. Besides that, there's no race problem. White's love blacks. As long as they act white and believe in everything whites do.

Matt   September 22nd, 2008 2:25 pm ET

Tell us something we don't know. Race is the entire backbone of McCain's campaign. He is copycatting Obama in an attempt to play up the Bradley Effect. This is why he all the sudden started claiming to be for change and reform and started calling himself a maverick. His entire platform is "Vote for me. I'll give you everything the black guy is promising to give you, but I'm safe and familiar because I'm white." There's your racism in this election. Too bad for the Republicans they seem to be forgetting about Harold Ford.

McHoover's Hillbillies   September 22nd, 2008 2:25 pm ET

We have disowned a couple of people we found out were racist in the last several years.

We have a zero tolerance for people who judge another human being by how much pigment their skin contains.

It is the height of ignorance.

TheTruthHurts   September 22nd, 2008 2:25 pm ET

This is no news. Race, age and gender will all be at play. We're not idiots. None of us know whether they will make the difference because they play in different directions. Age is both a positive and negative for McCain. Race is both a positive and negative for Obama. Gender is both a positive and negative for McCain/Palin.

We don't know what will happen. Let's stop speculating and start reporting some news like how Henry Paulson is being crowned KING of the USSA.

Marj,Paso Robles, Cal   September 22nd, 2008 2:24 pm ET

What percentage of minorities are voting for Obama because of the color of his skin? It works both ways, folks. I disagree with Obama on the issues. And I'm black.

bob in L.A.   September 22nd, 2008 2:24 pm ET

This has been the elephant in the room for months. Liberal Democrats may not have a problem, but moderates and conservatives still have pockets of prejudice. Had the press been discussing this issue early on, this may be a different race…er, contest.

CNN's poll fixation   September 22nd, 2008 2:24 pm ET

The AP polled people with whom race was already an issue.

Another skewed poll…imagine that

Frank   September 22nd, 2008 2:24 pm ET

There is no proof of this! This is playing on racial bigotry to sway blacks for Obama! Biased report, right here!

Kami in Arizona   September 22nd, 2008 2:24 pm ET

Its sad that in 2008 people are so scared of other races that they woud not vote for Obama adn instead vote for McCain or a third term of Bush. I have a son who is half black so i dont see race i only see people, i was hoping that maybe finally things have started to change but this has has made me realize that maybe that havent.

Please vote on the issues, close your eyes and dont see the color of the candiates only see the isses. Then you will see that Obama is the obvious choice if we are ever going to make our country better.

Germany among other countries embrace Obama, why is it that USA still only sees color??? We should be a leader instead we are years behind everyone else. :(

Obama/ Biden 08 for a better life for me and my child

BJ in NC   September 22nd, 2008 2:24 pm ET

Are we back on that again? What do you hope to accomplish with this.? You wrote about it yesterday (Sunday), you have it in here today, and I guess you will hit on it until the election. I ask the question again, what do you hope to accomplish? I was at the rally in Charlotte, NC and it was a compilation of all races. The Whites and Latinos were just as enthusiatic as the Black who were there. There were other races there but I am not able to specifically identify them. After all, America is getting more mixed everyday. After all America is the "Great Melting Pot" a name she has had since her founding but because of the views of a few has not lived up to. Oh yeah CNN, you have a way of deleting my posts, so I don't look for this one to make it either.

Justin from CT   September 22nd, 2008 2:24 pm ET

Blue states need to form their own nation. It would be vastly superior to the rest of the crap left over in America.

Female Voter   September 22nd, 2008 2:24 pm ET

Most of those people polled seem to forget that his mother was a white woman, but…what ever. Can't please everyone!

Lorna, NY   September 22nd, 2008 2:24 pm ET

I am not surprised. Some Americans, because of their racism, would rather elect an idiot than someone who is intelligent and would be a great president. When will we judge people by their abilities and not the color of their skin???

mitchell   September 22nd, 2008 2:23 pm ET

obama can outrun mccain anyday! this is a dum article.

hurriCAIN PALIN   September 22nd, 2008 2:23 pm ET

If there were no racial prejudice among voters, Sen. Barack Obama

would receive about 6 percentage points more support.

haha, not much of a jump. shows people picking experience over

good speeches and a one time 'good judgement'

Gary Chandler in Canada   September 22nd, 2008 2:23 pm ET

A CNN show, ‘World of Challenges’ featured 5 former Secretaries of State. By demographics and polls it was SHOWN that the people of the World have a low level of respect for America. When asked how America could improve in the eyes of the World, NOT ONE of the 5 came up with the obvious answer. They made lame comments like, ‘get all the countries in the world together’ ‘be the leader in global warming’. Do they NOT get it? The world does NOT think of or want America to be the World Leader; the question was how you regain the morale high ground and stature in the world?
Declare a Standards War in America!!!
*9 trillion in debt going to 11 trillion to China and Russia *Number 1 in crime rate amongst developed countries * # 20 in education and dropping * 12 in UN HDI and dropping * terrible ethnic, cultural, gender divisions
If you want World Respect, endeavor to be a ROLE MODEL, which you are NOT!
Fix your OWN house. Russia is recovering from collapse; America has spiraled into it. The odds of America recovering with McCain is ZERO, (Georgia attacked Ossetia first, the Splurge money is NOT working) and SLIM with Obama. (Obama would need YOUR help!)
Over your heads, he has often said education is the first step. That is the glimmer of hope; become smart!! . CARE about the 3 million Iraqis who have been killed since BUSH invaded in 1991! Do NOT let McCain make you believe the Georgians had a good reason for their night time, surprise attack on peace keepers and civilians. (if you do, I have a wmd I can sell you and a bridge to nowhere)
When you have the messiest yard on the block, don’t tell others their lawns need mowing!!!

Independent   September 22nd, 2008 2:23 pm ET

He will have to beat it if he hopes to win…U heard him on 60min yesterday…This is all a wash. People choose to vote for different reasons that sometimes have nothing to do with the issues. So to win he has to bring enough support on his side regardless of why these supporters are voting for him (or not for him).

it sucks that he would be in a much stronger position if he was white but…he's not! The times are that he has the chance as a black man to actually win this. So I hope a little longer.

Joe Regis   September 22nd, 2008 2:23 pm ET

Marin Luter King and a lot of our funding fathers would be very sad at this state of affairs.

As if the republicans did not screw up things enough.

America will make history and move the country in a new direction with Obama/Biden.

Right to left   September 22nd, 2008 2:23 pm ET

Time for the media to play the race card to advantage Obama.

Sexism is the evil- not racism.

Haven't you all watched the coverage of the Obama vs all the nasty coverage of the women in the campaigns?

Sherri   September 22nd, 2008 2:23 pm ET

How sad…how extremely sad. It's the 21st century. It is time to open your minds people. Fear and distrust of someone because of the color of their skin is not an American value.

Sarah.....and my last name isn't Palin!   September 22nd, 2008 2:23 pm ET

Wake up America! Iowa gets it. Iowa proved you wrong.

I love Iowa.

Obama/Biden

Jesse from Berlin   September 22nd, 2008 2:23 pm ET

That`s very sad…..judging from what we face, it´s pity to vote for someone because of their race….. I thought it´s all about the issues… why don´t we just vote black or white? at least we don´t have to go through all of this..

darko   September 22nd, 2008 2:23 pm ET

Race is definately an issue…getting 95% of the vote from one race is breathtaking.

Charles I Am   September 22nd, 2008 2:23 pm ET

Ghandi said "if the world could see the Christ of christians it would receive him but instead it sees the christians of Christ and rejects him". If black people are inferior then God is a liar because the bible says that we (mankind) are fearfully and wonderfully made, in His image.

Boye   September 22nd, 2008 2:22 pm ET

Since when was this new news? We all know this, but thankfully young people aren't as racially prejudice as the older generation. But believe me, it goes both ways. There are black folks who are racially prejudice towards white folks. It's nowhere near equal because even if the percentages are equal, the hard number are still way less due to blacks being a minority.
The good news is, most racial prejudice are localized by state and isn't proportionate across the board. So it shouldn't hurt either candidate much.

John in NJ   September 22nd, 2008 2:22 pm ET

So sad…for our country if race does play a deciding role in this election. America deserves the smarter leader and so what if he has a tan?

Obama/Biden in 08!

Ken   September 22nd, 2008 2:22 pm ET

An equally engaging headline could be: "Stupidity could play a big role in election". The latest stupidity comes directly from the McCain campaign which is asking for a "symmetry of coverage" from the press. Oh please! This is just more pathetic whining from the [R]ight as the truth comes out and reporters start to do their jobs so we don't step into [R] deception so easily. [R]s think that unless media outlets act like FOX and bias their reporting to the [R]ight, they are not balanced.

"Symmetry of coverage"? This is the ultimate backstabbing deception being foisted on our press and ultimately on our country. True conservatives will recognize this for what it is: a form of political correctness which posits that the press equalize coverage, in the sense that no matter how dumb one campaign behaves the press MUST report both campaigns as dumb, or just not report the dumbness in the first place. And I ask you, which one of our current campaigns would benefit from this current attempt at social engineering, which campaign is calling for this socialism of ideas? I'll give you a hint: its comes from the same party that loves to privatize profits, but socialize losses — from the same party which resorts to calling the other party 'socialists' because they themselves suffer from a bankruptcy of ideas. The stark irony is that people who like to be labeled 'conservative' and like to wear flag lapel pins are the very people who end up endorsing this brand of fascist socialism.

Race card time   September 22nd, 2008 2:22 pm ET

Race is having a role- to advantage Obama.

Obama rode his race and the historic nature of his campaign to steal the nomination of the democratic party.

Many democrats will NOT forget how he played the race card to trounce the better qualified democrat out of the game.

Obama- Next Stop.. White House   September 22nd, 2008 2:22 pm ET

Without question it plays a role….

BUT>>>>IT>>>>WONT>>>>EFFECT>>>>THE >>>>OUTCOME

President Obama ……. I like the way that sounds!!!

Barack Your Vote!!!!

Patriot   September 22nd, 2008 2:22 pm ET

Isn't this story old? You're pulling it out again, CNN, why?
Race is only an issue if you make it one!

Unmoved Democrat   September 22nd, 2008 2:22 pm ET

I knew this would happen. We're in the final stretch, Obama is ahead, so what can the media do to keep drama stirred up? I know: let's throw race/ethnicity back out into the arena and focus on it as much as possible to make sure ignorance remains at the forefront of the race! Forget the issues. The biggest issue is skin color. Give me a break!

Please post this CNN!

OBAMA SUPPORTER IN IOWA   September 22nd, 2008 2:21 pm ET

Obama has worked so hard to keep the race issue out of this contest. Shame on you, CNN, for constantly reminding us that racism is alive and well (sick) in USA. Let's stick to the issues!!!!! Landslide for Obama/Biden on 11/4. Who's with me?

Don't Kiss America's Chance Away because of RACE   September 22nd, 2008 2:21 pm ET

As a 45 year old White Female voter I urge anyone out there that would base this Presidential Race on Race, not to….

This years Presidential Race is about the 2 Wars and the possiblity of even more, The Economy, HealthCare and so much more.

If we make the wrong decision we don't have the opportunity to take it back instead we will have to try and survive another 4 years that could take us, God knows where it would take us!

ATLian   September 22nd, 2008 2:21 pm ET

This is the only way McSame will win.

Sabina   September 22nd, 2008 2:21 pm ET

RACE is this race is one thing but THEFT (again) !!

CNN PLEASE post!

The story is all over Progressive Talk Radio today about the McCain campaign sending absentee ballot applications to registered democrats or people that have donated to Obama's campaign. These ballots are deliberately misleading and have postage paid return addresses that are for an election clerk that is outside of your city or town. What this will end up doing is either having your vote not counted, or if you return one of these, they will cite you for election fraud, saying that you already voted absentee. These ballots are only being sent out in 'purple states' and this is a big deal.. This is called voter caging, and is a huge problem.

The McCain campaign is stealing this election as we speak. Please get this information out to as many people as you can ,and tell anyone you know who has received one of these ballots that they need to contact their city election clerk or the supervisor of elections immediately. Also call the local media and let them know what is going on.

The main stream media is never going to cover this so we have to depend on our ground campaign to get the word out to our voters.

You can NOT do this to us again Repugs!

scs

christy   September 22nd, 2008 2:21 pm ET

Polls take very small snapshots of the overall population and they are contributing to voter supression. Polls demoralize and depress the vote if people belive their candidate has a slim shot.

We all know thereare still racist among us so this isn't surprising what is surprising is the field day that media pundits are having with inconsiquential polls.

Ban Polls and let election day speak for itself.

Ladijc   September 22nd, 2008 2:21 pm ET

I simply amazes me that people can look past better jobs, keeping thier homes, better education and healthcare for themselves and their children and trade all that just to vote for someone who skin color is the same as thiers! It time to wake up America!

Gidget Goes To Washington   September 22nd, 2008 2:21 pm ET

That is about right…it should be an easy victory without the racial variable.

Its sad that so many Americans still feel this way and cling to silly prejudices over the good of the People.

The racial bias is so ugly:
If Obama is tolerant and patient he is a soft or a wimp.
A white does the same he is thoughtful and intelligent.

If Obama reacts fires back to false charges he is too aggressive and scary.
A white man would be revered as courageously standing up for himself.

It is hard to Obama to be able to navigate the race issue in this Country. For some people, no matter what he does it will be percieved in a negative way because of racial prejudice.

One more reason to be proud of him.

Adam Habib Dallas, TX   September 22nd, 2008 2:21 pm ET

So The country that is the " Beacon of Hope", stands firm for "FREEDOM", and believes in " All men are created equal" will now make election an issue based on skin color.

Oahu   September 22nd, 2008 2:21 pm ET

Why doesn't anyone talk about how race affects the whites.

Almost 90 percent of blacks vote for Obama and/or blacks, everytime. They don't vote for policy, they vote for color. No one calls this racism. In fact there is much more racism with the blacks than there is with whites, yet no one wants to address this.
Perhaps Jesse Jackson or Al Sharpton can address this.

Sarah.....and my last name isn't Palin!   September 22nd, 2008 2:21 pm ET

Wake up America! Iowa has proved you wrong.

We love Iowa.

Obama/Biden '08

ohio girl   September 22nd, 2008 2:20 pm ET

For the first time in my adult life " I am truly Not Proud of my country"
How in these times when children cant get educated, people or losing their homes, parents are competing with there children for the job at the local burger joint for a jobs, Banks and business that have been in existence for 100's of years are closing, the impeortance of your children are only important at birth and as soon as they reac the age of adulthood they are sent off to war… Peolpe are that ignorant that they would be that selfish that the would put the United states andtheir livlihood in jeopardy because thay wount vote for HALF BLACK MAN truly sad

Gender is worse   September 22nd, 2008 2:20 pm ET

Obama is lucky that he is black- well half black.

He could have the worst curse of all- being a female.

Ask HRC. Ask Sarah Palin.

This race thing is not an issue- but the filth thrown at the female candidates shows that the vitriolic attacks are against WOMEN!!!!!

sara, az   September 22nd, 2008 2:20 pm ET

About 2 yrs ago I directed a survey research institute at a large public university and here's some info about polls and sampling:

1. cell phone numbers are NOT randomly called because it incurs a cost to the respondent (ie, you can't charge people to participate in a study/poll);
2. any poll that states cell phones were included probably means people have signed up to be contacted — therefore, you would have self-selection bias (which is not a good thing);
3. any poll that uses "likely" voters will NOT include newly registered voters since likely voters have a history of voting;
4. it's doubtful if many newly registered voters are included in polls — it takes awhile to generate telephone lists of voters which is what pollsters buy from companies who specialize in this product. Random digit dialing is done from these lists.

Also, I wouldn't trust any Zogby poll — out of curiousity I signed up to take online Zogby surveys and they have been so poorly constructed –skip patterns were non-existent and they appeared to have very little quality control.

BTW, it doesn't take thousands of respondents to provide an accurate sample of the population. It does take brains, however, to determine a representative sample. Oversampling Republicans or Democrats will skew the results and apparently, that's being done lately by some pollsters.

So, in general, polls are only as good as the pollster and the sample and the item construction – the best election poll is the one that comes out on Nov 4. Given what the Republicans have done in the past two presidential elections with voter caging and Diebold, I don’t even trust THOSE results.

Jude   September 22nd, 2008 2:20 pm ET

CNN thanks for pointing out the obvious. I hope this didn't surprise anybody. Though we've come a long ways…racism still very much exists in this country. Obama/Biden should be leading by double digits if you pay attention to the positions, ideas, intelligence, of each candidate. Only way Obama/Biden loses is by "RACE".

Realpolitik   September 22nd, 2008 2:20 pm ET

Give it a rest already!!!! our genetics are 99% the same throughout the genome but we focus on the 1% that makes us different. There is no such thing as race. The color of our skin is no different than what makes up the color of our hair our the size of ones nose or ears. it is sad to see that we have not gotten over this. Focus on what each candidate stands for and what tey can do to bring you closer to what you want to see in the government not whether you like them or not as a person or what they look like!!!

Theresa A   September 22nd, 2008 2:20 pm ET

If Americans decide that something as trival as the race of an individual is more important that their qualifications and abiltiy to lead. If the country decides to select an openly dishonest individual because of race, then the country deserves what is get, as McCain does offer 4 more years of George Bush. Even more scary, since he will not be running for relection, a nothing to loose attitude.

Brian   September 22nd, 2008 2:19 pm ET

It's too bad that people think race is more important than leadership abilities. This country is making progress, but if racial bias ruins the future of the United States, then that is the path our country is going to take. I hope we aren't shallow enough to allow our country to plummet solely because of an irrational fear of skin color.

As a white male in a white state who has seen more black people on COPS than in real life, I have to say it does feel odd sometimes that I'm supporting Obama with every ounce of my being. But when I think of how irrational it would be to give into that weird feeling in favor of a man who essentially promises to continue the ruination of this country, all because he is white … well that just isn't a prejudice I can live with.

That's why I'm voting Obama, no matter what COPS has led me to believe about minorities.

Refuse to give in to your irrational fears, and embrace the biggest turning point in our culture, both socially and politically.

Maybe if you're inbred   September 22nd, 2008 2:19 pm ET

Forget race, vote for the future of our economy. It really is that simple.

sandy   September 22nd, 2008 2:19 pm ET

I have to admit when this all started over a year ago I was a little bias of Obama, but I gave him a chance and started listening to what he had to say, I think he would make a great President, if there is anyone out there who does feel bias please give him a chance and listen to what he is saying before you make a decision.

OS   September 22nd, 2008 2:19 pm ET

They are willing the country to go from bad to worst situation, but still don't want to come out of this racial divide.

ZZTop1960   September 22nd, 2008 2:19 pm ET

Wow this is scary that in this country in 2008 there are people blantly racially bias. And just think that many consider themselves lovers of God, that is very scary.

Yeah, right   September 22nd, 2008 2:18 pm ET

Yep… all that racism is what caused people to attack HRC so brutally….and to bash and trash her out of the nomination.

Oh wait… that was filthy vulgar sexism.

Obama stole the nomination due to reverse- racism. That is what people are holding against him.

it was the ugly way Obama played the race card to gut HRC. it was the constant race- baiting that turned life long democrats against Obama.

Florida Hockey Mom   September 22nd, 2008 2:18 pm ET

Our boy Barack better learn a little more about how the stock market works before he goes shooting-off his mouth about social security losing money. He's either creating un-due fear, which he said he's for new politics above this; or, he better get curious, like George, and learn the details about how the Stock Market works and how a small portion of MY money, in a private system, could be invested the way I want. Obama is becoming as annoying as Hillary.

Foreign observer   September 22nd, 2008 2:18 pm ET

It´s so sad when Americans having their roots all around the world still make race an important issue. It´s the peoples character that counts.

fixthebroken   September 22nd, 2008 2:18 pm ET

Yes. This is something to really worry about, unfortunately. And, sadly, if Obama does lose the election, we will never know for sure if race was the deciding factor. But, it would be one of the saddest days in our history if there was a way to find out that race was *the* factor that left Obama out of the White House.

But, you know what, I have more confidence in the American electorate this time around!

Kaye- Jacksonville FL   September 22nd, 2008 2:18 pm ET

A 53 year old white woman here….this is just disgusting news. To think that American voters, in the year 2008, would still cast their ballot based on racial stereotype and prejudice….talk about ignorance. This is it in all it's shame…if McCain-Palin take over our government, no one – white, black, or otherwise – will have anything to gain.

very very sad….

Sonya   September 22nd, 2008 2:17 pm ET

If the citizens of this country vote for the skin color rather than the issues this time around in 08 then we are ALL doomed! Vote for the issues my friend! Skin color is just skin deep. Please open your eyes and make the best choice for America.

Jennifer   September 22nd, 2008 2:17 pm ET

It's hard to believe that in 2008 there are still people who hold onto these beliefs that one race is better than the other. As a whole this nation has progressed, and I hope and pray that with each generation racism will become less of an issue.

DJ Los Angeles   September 22nd, 2008 2:17 pm ET

"…Obama is of mixed race — his mother was white, his father black — he is generally identified as black."

Why does the media NEVER call Obama mixed race? Always it seems the media is off mark and attempts to find the one bigot or racist in the lot to stir-up controversy or ratings…then bait and switch and say oh everybody in such and such city or state are racists.

Right off the bat the media is to blame first of all because they never properly describe Obama's racial category: MIXED race or "half/white", etc.

Deb, Allentown, PA   September 22nd, 2008 2:17 pm ET

I only wish that all the idiots who truly will not vote for Obama because of his race would be the only ones to suffer should McCain and Palin actually win this election. What's even more amazing is that the people who won't vote for him because he's black are the ones that are suffering the most under the Republican administrations.

And before a McCain supporter says something stupid, like "all black people are voting for Obama so that makes up the votes Obama will lose" let me point out that Kerry received over 90% of the black vote in 2004. African-Americans generally vote for Democratic principles more than they vote for color.

Greg, NY   September 22nd, 2008 2:17 pm ET

This is bad.

Sam Benegal   September 22nd, 2008 2:17 pm ET

Mccain will win… Does not matter if he has 13 cars/7 homes and Obama has 1car/1home. Mccain will still win although most of his ads are false and his running mate is totally inexperienced…. Mccain will still win even if he is just attacking Obama without discussing real issues. Mccain will still win even if he does miserable in the Debates. Mccain will still win even although he voted 90% of the time with unpopular Bush..

Why??? Look at the Poll numbers in 3 most hard hitting states (Florida/Ohio/Nevada) in this economic meltdown. Mccain is up there… Because the sad truth is that there are many Americans (even 30% Democrats) are wiling to take a gamble to loose their work, job or savings rather see a black man as a President..

Frank   September 22nd, 2008 2:17 pm ET

Of course …. there are just two reasons to vote for McCain. Lack of understanding the issues on hand and racism. Simple as that, honestly.

AMERICAN   September 22nd, 2008 2:17 pm ET

The reason why all those so called ex Hillary supporters aka Pukas are voting for Mccain is because they are obviously bigots and racist.

Joe the Troll   September 22nd, 2008 2:17 pm ET

If it weren't for racial prejudice, the polls wouldn't be nearly as close as they are now. We need to wake up and stop calling ourselves the "leaders of the free world" until we manage, as a nation, to grow up.

Cindy from NC   September 22nd, 2008 2:16 pm ET

This may be true to an extent but I am not going to buy into because this may be another way to sway voters from obama.

He is and will make a great president and that is all that matters. He is going to have enough new registered voters to counter act those few holding resentment. He is the future of AMERICA.

OBAMA/BIDEN 08/12

value   September 22nd, 2008 2:16 pm ET

What else is new . We know race will play a part . They should look at that 401K or other investment and get a reality check and vote for the smart guy.

Obama…..08

mark from NY   September 22nd, 2008 2:16 pm ET

obama will loose because he does not look like me. what a stupid idea. i think that i am racist. some white american are stupid for hating another human being because of the color of his skin.

Sarah Palin and African Americans in Alaska   September 22nd, 2008 2:16 pm ET

Hellooooooo????? We (minorities) have been saying it all the while, but who are we? No one pays attention to us and what we have to say. We all just need to forgive the past and move on. Sounds like it isn't the minorities that need to move on.

Anyone who is of mixed race is considered black. It's whites who are unforgiving, jealous, vindictive and hypocritical. Not all, but the majority of those who say they aren't (to your face) really are.

But we minorities already know this in our everyday experiences.

Brandon   September 22nd, 2008 2:16 pm ET

It's very sad to think that this country hasn't come far enough to put these types of things aside. You have two candidates who are VERY different from each other. For the average middle-income worker, Obama or an Independent candidate will work harder for you, and you've got racist people out there who will either vote for McCain out of spite, or the even dumber sexist clowns out there that vote the McBush ticket because "Daily Scandal Palin" just happens to not have a penis. Wow.

Independent but Leaning   September 22nd, 2008 2:16 pm ET

Here we go again… if you don't vote for Obama it's beacuse you are a racist. Pathetic.

Perhaps it's because his policies are all tried and failed Jimmy Carter re-treads. He doesn't remember the Carter administartion because he was getting high, but for those of us who cared about our country back before we decided to make a career out of being a politician, we can see exactly where he's trying to lead us.

Obama: Ready to get elected. Not ready to lead.

Bushwhacked in Eugene, OR   September 22nd, 2008 2:16 pm ET

DUH — now there's a newsflash! That's clearly why Obama isn't crushing McCain thus far — I just hope it's not enough to make him lose the election, or this country is doomed.

Proud old white woman for Obama.

Anti Palin...Pro Women   September 22nd, 2008 2:16 pm ET

=====wow, that's shocking====

we wanna free middle east from evil , we can't even take care of own problems here.

FreeNLovIt   September 22nd, 2008 2:16 pm ET

For eight years, we hired an elephant who didnt understand the principles of economics, today, we are seeing, reaping and inheritor of the burdens of an experienced man without judgement, why in the world would you want to vote for McBushain and PalinCheney? They are oil-based politicians.

Why do you want to wear the same underwears, after eight years? With Palin's D grade in economics, she is bound to fail if she inherits the title from McCain. You have to be smart and be able to understand the dynamics of states with diverse economies, not just oil-based economy

Palin is a good woman, but wrong for America.

McCain Bill1991   September 22nd, 2008 2:16 pm ET

so sad whites still fear Black men….you would rather see our country in ruin than elect a Black man? i hope for the sake of the people who feel that way that Jesus does not come back as a Black man, what would you do then?

Mark   September 22nd, 2008 2:15 pm ET

If Obama loses this election solely because of his race, the US will be the disgrace of the entire planet. I think its time Europe took over as the leader's of the free world.

Jack - DSM, Iowa   September 22nd, 2008 2:15 pm ET

CNN has been running this story for over a week now. I guess news doesn't neccesarily mean "new". I love the other story they posted about the latest poll standings. Well, not really the latest poll standings, but that infamous CNN poll-of-polls. Where they honey pick what polls they want to use and create an average from those polls. Every day it gets harder and harder to tell the difference between CNN and the Drudge Report.

mitchell   September 22nd, 2008 2:15 pm ET

for the first time in my adult life, i'm really proud of my country. i would be really really proud of my country if we could overcome the bigotry that still infests our culture.

i'm a lone white guy ,in arkansas, who is proud of being color-blind.

USAF Staff Sergeant   September 22nd, 2008 2:14 pm ET

So sad… to think some people are actually still so ignorant they wouldn't vote for someone based on race.

J from DC   September 22nd, 2008 2:14 pm ET

Some will, some wont because for race. We already know that is true. I just gave $50 to Obama because I am sick of this economy. In November Obama gets my vote. I know John McCain has no idea what to do, because he said the economy was strong when it is not. Now we have to pay so much money to get the banks out of trouble. So, why are we still spending all this money in Iraq? If McCain wins this election, he will keep spending billions every month in Iraq? I don’t think McCain cares how much the war cost, because McCain and his rich friends will keep eating. They are getting their money now (today) in this bailout. While, the rest of us have to wait to see who gets elected. I have friends who say they can’t see themselves voting for Obama, even though they like him. They say they will vote for McCain even though they don’t like him or Palin. They are just Republicans voting the party line. Still, here we all seem to agree on one thing. If Obama don’t win, the rest of us will get nothing, but more taxes. Then, when we lose our jobs, and can’t pay for our homes. They will take them and sell them to someone else, for half the price. It is happening every day, right here, right now, before the election. Obama needs our vote, and our money to win in November. Let’s support him now, before it is too late. As for the Republican, I tell them to vote Obama or Bob Barr if they truly want their party back.

NORA, FLORIDA   September 22nd, 2008 2:14 pm ET

That's funny because to let sooooooooooo many other Americans tell the story. America has come a long way. Well from the topic line of this blog; America has not come far enough if we are still dealing with this issue. And they wonder why people are fighthing to keep Affirmative Action in place!!!! Are you that blind that you don't have the answer to that question.

When racism no longer exist, then Affirmative Action should no longer exist. This country is looming with racism is so many parts of America but so many do not want to face the reality of it. Racism exists folks. ADMIT IT AND MOVE ON!!! There will be idiots forever!!!

Lisa   September 22nd, 2008 2:14 pm ET

It's sad that people are still stuck in the 1700s!

joseph   September 22nd, 2008 2:13 pm ET

its been a week since someone played the race card, I still dont feel bad for not voting for obama, and if that makes me a racist then GOOD I will sleep fine at night. The change we need is to get away from the 2 party dictatorship we currently are suffering from.

Bulldog   September 22nd, 2008 2:13 pm ET

I appreciate Obama's answer on 60 minutes to this issue. He said that it is all a wash and is not making a political thing out of it. Obama said that he believe most voters will vote for or against him because of his ideas and stances on the important issues of healthcare, the economy, war, college tutition and so on. Obama is a decent man and he proved it once again in his interview.

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