CNN

it's shameful but the truth if he was a white prez. none of this would even be a problem. sad sad sad even being educated still labeled for the color of skin & not the content of character. how much more do we need to do since dying & picking cotton wasn't enough!

Of course Republicans are racists! Is it really that big of a surprise that a Southern white party would hate minorities? Ever looked at the crowd at one of those hate rallies where they dress up in silly costumes, hold racist signs and dangle tea bags? They're all white! Face it Republicans, America is leaving you behind. Evolve or die.

I really believe that some of this is racially motivated.I truly beleve that Former President Carter was right in what he said, and they can deny it now but the truth will come OUT sooner or later!

Anyone who doesn't want to admit that some of the racist elements are hiding behind the health care debate to vent their anger is in denial. These are the same people who were present in the campaign, you know the one who thought Obama was a muslim, socialist.... That type of ignorance doesn't go away because he won the election.Whether you agree with with the Democratic health care proposal or not. It took Obama and the democrat to bring to the national debate. Where was the Republican in the last eight years. After all is said and the health bill passess, we as a nation will be better for it.

I would like to thank two of our former presidents for throwing race into politics. Why is it the same America that voted Obama into office, is now racist? Wow unbelievable….This is my country, only here can such things exist.

Why doesn't Bill Clinton keep his mouth shut?

Does anyone realize the Democrats are the only people commenting on race!!!!!

Okay, so let me get this straight. If a white person agrees with Obama then they aren't racist BUT if they disagree with him they are racist? I wonder if race would be an issue if the president had been George Bush and the person yelling you lie had been Jesse Jackson?

Does anyone realize the Democrats arethe only people commenting on race!!!!!

If Obama supporters don't stop using the "racism" claim soon it is going to be like Chicken Little and the sky is falling. After you use it too much no one is going to believe it is real.

so when ever one disagree with the President, one is a racist. It is just like in Memphis, Tn, if you don't get your way, the race card come out.

And lets all remember exactly what Pres. Carter said, rather than the FAUXNews spin of it. He said that much of the most strident and hostile voices were racist ones. He didn't say that ALL of the opposition was racist, only acknowledged a patent fact that many of the most hostile voices are also racist voices. Nothing false about that. Nothing controversial. Just speaking truth, which is something that the crazy right simply cannot let happen.

I strongly believe prejudices’ is what’s keeping President Obama’s Health reform from being past! If it was McCain’s health plan it would have pasted long time ago. When Congressman Joe Wilson yelled out ‘you lie’, you could see ‘prejudice’ written all over his face!
It a pitiful shame many Americans as well as the leaders of our country haven’t grown up yet!

Sure we have racism in America and we need to get rid of it. But this fight is not about race, this is not about ideology, this is all about money, pure and simple. It is about probably the biggest financial stake in the history of the mankind. If the waste is cleaned up from our health care and if we get to the level of spending comparable to other developed nations, someone is to lose lots of money ($1.2 trillion if, for example, we get our spending levels to the "inefficient, government managed" Canadian system). So let us not waste time talking about racism now, because it only detracts from the real discussion. And I am afraid that, with so much at stake, things will get still much more ugly before it is over.

It's not the color black that concerns people, it's the color red (of His policies).

Sir, you left out the part about how civility toward Presidents Bush and Obama has been lost and the Office of the Presidency is forever stained by the personal conduct of a former President. Oh yeah, that was you.

Right on the point. Great analysis!
They do not mince their words....

I find myself agreeing with this man more and more everyday... I'd love to meet Bill Clinton. I'd love to hear more on his approach to healthcare.

Yes, too bad so many are willing to whip out the race card at the slightest opportunity when there is so much to disagree with regarding policy that has become anything but honest capitalism in this or the last administration.

Though I am a Republican, I have to agree with Clinton's comments. But not only does he disaggregate the issue, he, along with others failed to aggrandize the issue. That is, racist discussions need to be removed from the issue at hand. However, he and others forget to mention the racist comments made when white republicans are in office by the black communities. That would not be to start an argument, but to show that there are racists in every race. Some are racists of self imposed sovereignty and others are racists of perceived victimization. In the end, there will always be people that do not like another race whether it be quietly understood or loudly spoken. In this case, as Clinton points out, it is about taking the color – green – from one group of people comprised of as many races as there are in the group that will receive the color – green – .

I think Bill nailed it. Now lets stop asking the question and focus on the real issues. Those are too important and too complex to be derailed by dialogue on race. No one is going to change a racist's or bigots mind, so lets just move on.

(from a black guy who thinks there's alot of questions that need to be answered)

President Bill Clinton

I live in your old home state of Ark. and i must say i have seen more racism in the last year, more than in the past 30 years of my life.

James R. Jones
Eureka Springs Ar.

If I believe someone is trying to steal my money or freedom I will hate that person for what they are. I do not care what color they are or where they are from. I believe Obama's policies are a threat to my money and freedom. Obama is mixed race so when I disagree with him why am I labeled as being racist against African Americans but not Caucasians? He and his radical left wing friends are using race as a tool in an attempt to silence opposition. To use Obama,s logic; if you disagree with me you must be prejudiced against Caucasians.

Too much is on the news-if less was on the news,we would be better,
Yes if Obama was white, I think it would be easier to get help for Americans, But what color is he, A white Mother-a black Father-, how do you call him Black, Could he not be called White,
Give Obama a chance to help America,
Thanks Pres. Carter. also Pres.Clinton, Ann Ward

listen campers, the USA is one of the most racially discriminatory countries in the world. When I visit the US, I am disgusted by the way whites treat the blacks, Mexicans and mid-eastern folks like second-class citizens. It is as putrid as the ghettos and grottos that many of these folks live in.

You think you have the best country in the world, well you might want to start travelling around a bit to see just how socially backwards you are.

The bottom line is Joe Wilson would have opposed Bill Clinton in a similar fashion, but would he have yelled out, "you lie" . . . I don't think so, that type of blatant disrepect from a military trained officer who was a Judge Advocate and definitely knows better shown to the Commander in Chief of the armed forces was absolutely racially motivated!

Why is it so hard to believe people don't like Oboma because of what he stands for. It has nothing to do with his color. Keep playing the race card. The more it is played the more you drive people away from the Democrat Party.
Sounds to me like this administration wants everyone to believe any opposition is racially based. In that way everyone would be afraid to voice any opposition for fear of being called a racist. That would be censorship would it not.

The simple fact is the democrats could pass this health care if they wanted to, they do not need the republicans. They won't because they know it is crap and they don't want their name on it before the upcoming elections. Don't think the American PEOPLE are that stupid not to know. Smoke and mirrors is all this is.

Mr. President I simply wish to say, "A million thanks to you!" You and President Obama are two of our very best. Bless you and your family.

I believe it is racism loud and clear, If you believe tea party patriots who appear white and who disagree with the president are racist then look in a mirror you qualify as a racist.
What this is all about is an attempt to mute the honest concerns of the public.
If Obama could give us a clear and concise plan we could then discuss the merits. If we could hear something other than vague promises and doubletalk laced with veiled threats then maybe the grassroots would stop being so angry.
Remember nearly 1/2 the country did not vote for Obama

Clinton and Carter are decent .

Lets get past the lame Jimmy Carter race statement. If John McCain was in Office instead of Obama pushing the current Obama plans, we who object to a national health care plan and the socialism agenda that is coming out of D.C. would still opose this economic nonsense and degenerating of U.S. society views of how to run our great country. I watched many a Canadian in need of health care they could not get in Canada get on expensive chartered aircraft to be flown to the USA where their money could buy them care being denied to them or unavailable in Canada. Wake up all you healthy fools. When you catch something serious then you will understand where you want to be and it is not in a government run hospital. Think VA hospital do you go there for your heart surgeries or the latest cancer treatment. Wake up you healthy fools.

President Clinton is absolute right.To prove it go to fox news..Then u will see,Acron did this,A black man did this on every day basis.

As a conservative I am proud of the strides our country has made in race relations, particularly amongst young people. But unfortunately there will always be people who discriminate, including Republicans and yes even Democrats.

Race card! Race card! Race card! Do they have anything of substance other than the race card? Give me a break...

Bill Clinton your are a poster president for a president!!

Amen. It's nice to see people step up and say what I've been saying for months. The vehemence of the "protests" and the substance of them are the product of racist rant.. There is a significant population of bigoted people who are going to protest anything that the president does simply because he is not white. Many of these same people denounced any negitvie comments towards former pres bush as un-american, un-patriotic and treasonous. Surprising how the tables have turned. Look past the color of his skin, look past the rant from glenn beck and rush limbaugh and accept that the majority of Americans support the president and his policies.

President Barack Obama is fueled by "A+ Type" blood; therefore, he can donate or receive blood from 80% of the American population ...... Why is it that skin, race or religion remain of such importance?

Former President Bill Clinton, I disagree with the statement, "And I believe if he were white, every single person who opposes him now, would be opposing him then." You are giving them too much credit! I would go as far as saving at the very least 25% that oppose simply because of his race and this is coming from a person in a conservative state.

The same folks against this health care bill now are the very same folks who were against it when the Clintons were in office. We were not racist then, and we are not racist now.

Just because we don't believe in the policy, we have a right to voice our opinion without being ridiculed.

The deep down dislike for Americans who are black/partially black which is not usually verbalized in a civil polite society is coming to the surface stimulated by the HATE speech of people like Beck, Limbaugh, Hannity Reilly (FOX NEWS) and the people they invite on their programs to add more oil on thefire. Just look at the insulting slogans and signs people display at gatherings. Also the vocal attacks leveled at OBAMA during the SARAH PALIN campaign speaches. There is a tragedy in the making.

We all need to stop accusing people of racism when they disagree with someone who happens to be black. If the American people are open-minded enough to elect a black president, we should be able to have a debate without resorting to racial accusations as a tactic.

BILL CLINTON IS CORRECT – - AGAIN. Yes, a significant percentage of Obama's evil opposition is due to race. This should not be a surprise. Several independent exit polls taken outside the precincts during the democratic 2008 primaries, revealed 10%-to-27% of white southern voters (depending on state & district), admitted they voted for Hillary without hesitation because they refused to vote for a black President. So Presidents Bill Clinton, Jimmy Carter, and Barack Obama are all correct to acknowledge racism existence; but they also acknowledge that the Democrats cannot allow this evil to distract them from implementing the CHANGES we voted for in 2008.

Why is this the only clip you are showing? Bill Clinton is still unmatched in his rare ability and genius to be able to take complex issues and make them seem perfectly simple to understand. He has spoken about a whole host of very important subjects. Lets see those clips. Those are brilliant.

Exactly. Unless and until you walk in the shoes of a minority, you'll never know.

Bill Clinton doesn't even know the definition of the word "is".

How would he know the definition of racism.

The day of the race card has run out. It is whites and Blacks and youths who voted him into office and who watch Oprah. The race card has worked for so long for so many and they haven't figured it out yet that it's over. Jesse J., Big Al Sharpton, Charlie Rangle, all have made a living off of it for years, but it's time has come and gone. The American people are better and smarter than that now. Clinton, Carter are all from that era trying to revive it. Loosers then and now.

Finally- common sense from a past president. Carter is the worst president this country has ever known....useless then and useless now.
Health care is a debate that has nothing to with race. The only principle I care about regarding reform is : "Do No Harm" and until President Obama can display that will be the case, I shall remain against his and Congress proposal(s).

Agree. Some folks are racially motivated when commenting, but certainly not all people that complain about the current administration are racists.

So Clinton's health care plan worked because he's white? Oh yeah, it was an utter failure.

So what's his angle on this one?

He's devoted his life to getting rid of racism???? No, that's what conservatives have done – starting with Abraham Lincoln (a Republican). Instead, he's used the African American vote for his own gain – then goes around telling everyone else they're racists. Trust me, this guy is a racist as anyone!

he is right on!!!

I agree that some of those who oppose the president do so because of racism.............but that fraction is so miniscule. Let's not try to run that up any flag pole guys. It is so LAME.

While I do agree to a point with President Clinton, I believe a lot more racism is out there than he and others care to address. How about all those despicable signs at the D.C. protest week before last that show President Obama as a spear chucker witch doctor, and a "white face" caricature, etc. Are these not a sign of blatant racism? Are we to ignore this? What I don't understand is why someone, anyone, has yet come out to condemn this.

What Jimmy Carter said was not too different. He probably didn't clairfy enough that not ALL the detractors and opponents of President Obama were motivated by race as Bill Clinton did. Please tell me that the birthers and those carring signs of President Obama made out to be a witchdoctor and/or the joker don't have a shred of racism in them. PULEASSSSE!!!!

When Hillary tried this, was it anti-feminist or was IRA Magaziner's efforts stopped by anti-semitism? Just because someones opposes a view, please do not automatically call that person a racist.

why is it that every time there is differences and an African American is involved, it is racism against blacks? Can anyone object to an issue without racism being brought forth, even indirectly? Why is it that some believe that anyone against President Obama's reform or ideas is considered racist?
Carter proved himself the worst president in the 20th century by his remarks 29 years AFTER he left office. Willie followed suit with the race card. I am so sick of the race card, I am so sick of this bipartisan bickering that Congress is more interested in demoralizing the other party than serving the citizens of America.
I am trying to figure out what is worse, the Congress we voted in or us FOR voting them in? What a joke. America is but a shell of what it once was.

I don't think that any white person has the right to say that something is not racist. President Obama has said that none of these protests are fueled by racism, but he is saying that, because to NOT say that would be political suicide. For the record, I am white, and I have listened to enough people personally to say without a doubt that there is A LOT of racism at the bottom of all of this. So sad.

Gee, anyone who looks at this issue fairly would have to admit that racism is involved, just look at the footage on T.V. That doesn't mean that everyone is a racist, but there is that element among the tea party people and the republican party. After all there are still many in the conservative movement that fight racial equality and the Martin Luther King holiday.

Racist people will always exist, doesnt make it any less wrong. Its sad that people still focus so much on the color of someones skin and not the substance of what they say and do. Anyone who is racist is very small minded and prob under educated, doesnt matter if they are black or white.

The entire government of the United States is in serious trouble if we keep creating these tangents and do not address the issues at hand.

Yep play the race card everytime anybody speaks their mind.

I think that while President Obama has tried to not exhibit racial prejudice, he has in a few instances demonstrated his own. Remember, prejudice is also doing things FOR one group!
However, Rep. Wilson's comment may have bore NO prejudice. Time will tell if illegal residents get coverage. Then we may owe Mr. Wilson an apology...I hope Mr. Carter will be first in line to apologize.
You see, the question is who will pay for medical costs of illegals if they are not covered?
You see, President Obama did go on record saying that illegal immigrants WILL NOT be covered! As an electorate, let's hold him to that promise.

As usual when things are not going right just sit back and point racism.

Blah, blah! Yeah, everyone who disagrees with Obama is racist just like everyone who disagreed with Bush was UnAmerican.

How about anyone who disagrees with you is actually able to think for themselves and really doesn't need to be led around by the nose? That goes for ANY politician, btw. Not just those two morons.

Clinton is on target, as he usually is. I also agree with those who state that a lot of white southerners, in particular, are either consciously or unconsciously ill at ease with the growing reality that whites will be the minority within a generation. (By the way, I am a white, southern male.) Change doesn't come easy, so these anxieties are understandable, but, of course, this doesn't justify the racist and even violent rhetoric coming from the extreme right.

I am not one to use the racism card however, I do believe there is this element in the opposition to this president. I see it in my own family where relatives that I would never imagine speaking in the manner they do against a sitting president are critical and demeaning in everything from his birth certificate to his "Muslim" connections to this health care issue. It is dispicable and I find it hard to be in the same room with them. It's so sad...it really is.

Are some criticisms of Barack Obama's policies racially motivated? Absolutely. It's only been a year since the campaign and there are still those who believe that Obama forged his Hawaiian birth certificate, is Islamic – which shouldn't matter, and is trying to take over America, whether it'd be for his "terrorist buddies" or with socialism. And let's not forget there are those who still have Obama's former pastor, Rev. Jeremiah Wright in the back of their minds. It's rhetoric all designed to scare America, and Republicans are adding fuel to the fire when they say that his proposals are going to have budget concerns. Well guess what? Whatever they propose will have the same budget concerns!

WE LIVE IN A RACIST AMERICA! Just because we were able to elect a black President by no means indicates that racism is over. If you want to find racism towards him, all you have to do is Google it.

He contradicts himself when he says if Obama was white the same people would oppose him as those who oppose him as a black man. Wouldn't that mean the opposition is because of disagreement with the healthcare plan and not because of the color of his skin? Please make up your mind whether or not anytime we don't agree with a policy from this administration if we're racist or we're just Americans enjoying our First Amendment rights.

The Elder Statesman speaks wisdom as usual

First the worst president in history, Jimmy Carter, says it and now Bubba says it. The truth of the matter is that the only color that matters in the current situation is red. That is the color of Mr Obama's policies, straight from the Communist Manifesto. The more the Dems misread the publics anger with this big government takeover of the economy, the bigger trouble they are in for 2010.

Yes, there will be racially motivated ressistance to Obama's Health Plan.

No matter what any body says and how often they say it, it is racism and they resent having an African American president, but guess what, get over it!

we thought Bill C was smarter than this - joining the Dem's desperate efforts to silence everyday American's by calling them an offensive name with cheap-shot tactics of poor taste. guess we were wrong.

Pretty ironic, given that Obama's camp charged Clinton with racism during the campaign.

The ONLY group that is sowing racist animosity is the Obama crowd. They are the most racist bunch ever to hold office.

Bill Clintons comments are on the same ignorant intellectual level of those of Jimmy Carter and should be regarded of similar significance.

Nobody cared what they said when they were president and nobody cares now.

I am tired of the race card being played over and over. If someone doesn't like Obama and his policies, then he is a racist. It is another way to guilt people into liking the guy...call them racists until they fall in line.

Clinton hit it right on the button. The democrats definitely have to focus on getting healthcare reform through and put aside the racism against our president for the time being. Obama will endure much more of it throughout his presidency and the democrats should save the fight against the racism for another day.

What a bunch of bunk!!......no body cares if the president is PURPLE...it is his policies and actions.

Too funny. So when Bush was criticized were his critics called left wing extremists? So are we now putting Obama's critics on the same level as terrorists? Extremist is pretty close to a terrorist. This is just getting out of hand. Democrats need to get a reality check. Anyone who criticizes Obama is now labeled either a right wind extremist or a racist. Get a grip Bill.

People were and are against Obama not because of race it was his 145 days as a senator. His history with Acorn and neighborhood organizer Never running a business Voting present on the hard questions in Chicago . Lets face it he gives a great speech and got the people involved. They voted for change and now the change is not what they wanted. Yes Bush had a part in it when he did the first bail out of 700 billion and filled with goodies. Then AIG stockbrokers car companies the WAR health care.while taking over the govrnment. The people are pissed millions going to DC to protest and want to take back their government. These people love this country want this country to be a better place for their children want a strong defense low taxes and take care of our fellow man in the US and the world. Jimmy Carter was wrong as president and is still wrong today

I completely agree with Ex-president Bill Clinton. A great solution would be more African Americans and more Hispanics should run for office and lets all vote them in. This would change the pictures nationally quickly.

I take issue with former Presidents Clinton and Carter, who claim racism as part of President Obama's plight. Yes, there is still an element of racism in this country, but these former Presidents do not speak for me. President Obama's negative press primarily stems from the poor choices and decisions he has made. And, like typical humans, he wants to blame someone else for his own mistakes. Let President Obama take some responsibility for HIS actions!

it's the socialism stupid! are you blind, deaf and dumb? obama has to get his controlling hands out of everything. he is supposed to be a president – not a king!

If you dont agree with this president it seems your always going to be called a rasist. Belive it or not some of the Presidents votes came to him because he was Black, like it or not.
But did we forget about his Rev. that was blasting Whitey on a video?

I guess we must have. What I'm gettng at is, it comes from both ends the left and the right, black, white, red, brown, what ever.

And until we stop teaching it to our children it's going to stay with us.

Jason

The racism I see on the blogs, on FOX, in the town halls, from Republicans and their leaders – makes me hurt and angry – I've even spewed out crap back in response – and for that I feel ashamed. No more blogs and no more watching FOX for me!

Jimmy Carter is the only person so far to have the cojones to call it like it is. President Obama has to say it's not racism, but the WH knows what is driving the nastiness being directed at him. No president has ever been the target of the type of ugly rhetoric and personal attacks being spewed by the right wing obstructionists. This is not playing the race card, just stating facts: Racism is alive and well, thriving in the U.S, and Obama is a target.

Finally...FINALLY, one thing I agree with Bill Clinton on "And I believe that if her were white, every single person who opposes him now, would be opposing him then." I never thought I would say that about Clinton...

Because God knows, there are no racist Democrats or liberals. Gimme a break.

If a majority of white Americans were racist, Obama would not be President now. Opposition to his health care proposals are ideological, not based on who is doing the proposing. To say this is racist is another attempt to demonize the opposition, something we see too much of from both sides in our politics. Debate about the role and size of the government has been around as long as our republic; it is a valid debate in which good people can disagree. Those calling opposition to their point of view racist are removing themselves from this category.

If President Obama was white Rep. Joe Wilson would have never shouted out "you lie" as bad a President Bush was no one ever did that in America!

Way to go, Bubba! You expertly delivered the Race Card with a velvet glove.

The person who I truly wanted to be president is an African American. Sadly, he didn't run. So, Bubba, am I racist against whites or blacks?

I must be racist against something since I don't agree with you or the president...

Bill Bill Bill What planet you coming from? All conservatives are racists, bigots and most of all anti-American. Their true leaders are Limbaugh, Beck, Coulter and Faux News et al to name a few.

"...this is one we need to win on the merits.”

And since there are no merits to Obamacare, it's going to hard to do that.

I am just glad that prominent folks such as Presidents Carter and Clinton as well as Dave Matthews are acknowledging that some of the silly directives aimed at President Obama are because of the color of his skin. No one has ever said that all conservatives are racist. The ones who are against the sort of insulting rhetoric spewed at the president should speak up and separate themselves from the extremists. As a Black American most of us are always trying to fight stereotypes by calling out and separating the good from the bad. The conservatives should do the same. It only takes one bad apple.

If Democrats think they're going to derail honest criticism of President Obama's failed domestic and foreign policies with insane allegations, they're in for a shock. They will see this in the coming elections. Jimmy Carter is a self-serving, bitter old man, who couldn't even free a few hostages during his time in office. He was the worst president in U.S. history and was proof-positive that elections have consequences. Obama would be wise to distance himself from this anti-Israel, far left loon; otherwise people may start drawing comparisons between the two, thus reducing his legacy to the joke that Carter's is.

I believe that Bill Clinton is right, not all who oppose Obama's policies are racist, however, there is one point that no one makes regarding racism. I think it is a two way street. There are man black people who call white people some pretty nasty names as well. I truly believe that many black people voted for Obama simply because he is black.
If the problem of racism is ever going to go away, it will take both sides, white and black to come to terms. That is going to be the problem because, in my opinion, it is the black people who scream racism, I don't hear whites saying that very often but it does exist.
I recently saw a black man on u tube saying that all white people should be exterminated. It goes both ways.

I never thought America had so many racist people. They hide out like everyone else, but under a guise of disagreement regarding policy they are actually just un-comfortable with a black man in charge of this country. The reason I feel this way is the number of jokes and comments circulating on the internet that are racially motivated or show racial stereotypes as the punch line. Like the one where there is water melon growing on the WH lawn and folks are saying well there isn't going to be an easter egg hunt this year....etc...

Which is exactly what Democrats are saying. It is only Republicans in Congress, conservative , right wing "entertainers" and the right wing nut cases who are trying to convince people that by pointing out racists tactics and rhetoric currently being used by them is racist. Their game plan is to blame the person being attacked and all those that are pointing it out. They know that gullible people will never admit to anything being racist and the best way to promote that is to blame the victim.

If racism still exist in this country, Obama wouldn't have made it in the White House regardless how many votes he would have recieved. The only racist people left in this country, are some prominents black leaders that uses racism as a tool to achieve their financial benefits and promoting racism.

I sure hope Bill Clinton is right. But there's the lunatic fringe (birthers, for example) who ARE also racist. Right in my Central Texas town I overheard two rednecks at a gas station while we were all filling up.

One guy said, "We haven't had a good assassination since JFK.'
And the other guy said, "Yeah. They're gonna bury Obama's black ass to Africa where he came from."

This was so sick and it really bothers me.

Republicans: – One and for all :
No one ever said that all republicans are racists.
In fact we're saying most are not.

BUT...

A small minority are, and theyre showing it in public
through their hateful speech and banners

WHY NOT speak out about those people and put pressure
on them to take their hate elsewhere, to distance yourself from them.

Thats ALL independents and democrats are saying.

NO youre not racist, but please tell that vocal racist dude
that completely despise what theyre saying and to dissociate
yourself from them.

Thats all...
......................... too much to ask?

Is George Steph a racist now that he showed Obama a dictionary with the definition of a "tax" proving he lied about a tax increase.

I know that race is going to be apart of our live as love as people teach it to their kids,and if this country have two political party

Bill and Hillary were charged with racism during the campaign. It appears if you oppose Obama .... it's racist. We need to get past this and concentrate on finding common ground and solve America's problems. Like it or not, Obama is PUTUS until at least 2012. We can vote him in or out then.

Hmm...I am not a Bill Clinton fan, but that is the smartest thing he has said lately.....I still oppose Obamacare however and the whole emergency nature about passing this legislation as soon as possible or the country will fall smacks of a contrived state of affairs.....until this last election I heard nothing coming out of DC or the media or people on the street that would suggest we have this huge healthcare emergency.....and I don't know where people are geting this $12,000 to $20,000 dollar a year insurance premium stuff from....they must have 20 dependents....Anyhow, doesn't matter if Obama is black, brown, green or purple, I still oppose his socialist government power grab and can't wait until I can get a chance to vote him out of office. We as a country don't need this and can't afford all of the spending that is going on in DC. It will take decades to reverse this last 8 months.

I didn't care for President Bush, but I would have been just as angry if a congressman had shouted "You lie!' at Bush the way that fact-challenged Joe Wilson yelled at President Obama. That behavior is inexcusable.

About time a Democrat realized that opposition to Obama is not all, or even mostly, racist. African-Americans ONLY comprise 10-11% of the population in the US. If we were racist we wouldn't have a black president. It is the ridiculous POLICIES that we object to, the corruption of his team, and his naive belief that he is GOD.

Every President who has ever been in office has had opponents, and those who disagree with his views and agendas. Please stop accusing everyone who disagrees with Obama's health care plan of being racist. It is ok to disagree, it is ok to have a different viewpoint. It is NOT ok to try to hush people who want to express their opinions just because our President is African American.

Can't we all just get over it !!!
This whole race this is really getting old you guys. GIVE IT UP.

We have folks who are losing jobs, who are hungry. When we watch the news , we do not want to hear a bunch of yelping from Congress blasting their mouths about race !!! Give me a break. We're hungry, out here, unemployed and don't have medical insurance...

Joyce

"It depends on what you think the definition of the word 'is' is"

THANK GOD.

I am so incredibly thankful that Bill Clinton at least has enough sense to look through these issues and see what's happening. Are some of the people that protest Obama racially motivated? Absolutely. But to make a blanket statement about it is ridiculous. Not everyone at these TEA parties are racist, perhaps it is even a minority. Having Carter and DMB pop in to give their two cents has caused more problems than what it was worth. They made blanket statements. Its like saying every Muslim is a terrorist.

Was Wilson a racist? I think the honest answer is: you're better off asking him because no one can know his motivation but him. Speculating about these issues is terribly unhelpful.

President Clinton is right not everyone is racist toward Obama. Please let's not forget how much of the same language we heard when he was running for president. We always are going to have racism in America, let's face, it is what it is until the end of the world, but let's focus on the real issue here which is health care, there is so many people including seniors that don't have health insurance and are waiting for the promise land here in their own america to at least be able to get some decent medical attention without going broke, because some of this people are presently using credit cards to pay for their prescriptions and medical care. It is a shame ,I seen seniors in front of me in the line at the drug store and my heart breaks when they pay a big bill with their credit card. President Obama I urge you to please let our elders enjoy their golden years with dignity and respect. Please resolve this issue as soon as possible.

I have gained a new and profound respect for the Former President for making such a bold statement. Hopefully this will be the beginning of a cure for hatred within our society.

I agree with President Clinton...there is racism out there, including a small percentage of Obama critics.....but the overwhelming issue is the terrible policies of the President including bad healthcare reform programs. The issues are the big problems not the race.

Stop the nonsense, any criticism is motivated by many factors, Bill himself was played the race card in the campaign... now playing it on others. White politicians are not liked by people from other races as well, and so are any other group.
This is NOT the main factor in criticism of Obama, his health care, his inexperience, him trying to be everything to everybody. It has nothing to do with race.
There are racists of all races!

We always in a democracy need a president we can criticize without being called names!

Racism does this to our nation- We are no longer United State of America we are a Divided State of America- this is the 2nd civil war for this generation- red states vs blue states- god help us all...

Unfortunately, racism is alive and well in our nation. Of course, the GOP reject that they are racist! But the truth is the truth.

"And I believe if he were white, every single person who opposes him now, would be opposing him then..."

Sorry, Chief, but Obama is just as much white as he is black. Hello? Didn't you get the memo on that? His father was black but his mother was WHITE. He is not a BLACK president, he is a BI-RACIAL president. Is my explanation black and white enough for you to understand? If the "right-wing extremists" are racially prejudiced, just which of Obama's races are they prejudiced against?

we all know that racism exist.it raises it,s ugly head in so many ways and places.president Obama has more pressing issues to address at this time ,therefore we all should be supporting him 100% all the way. the racism issues should be address by CIVIL RIGHTS GROUPS AND ADDRESS THROUGH PROPER CHANNELS.THE MEDIA IS NOT THE LEGAL PROPER CHANNEL FOR A SENSITIVE ISSUE OF THIS SORT.

Right on the Money–Wish he were still President

I agree one hundred percent with former President Carter & Clinton.

BELIEVE IT OR NOT RACISM IS A TWO WAY STREET. Please don't attempt to color one group or race as having the monopoly on racism. Minorities tend to vote who they relate with be it skin color or ethnic background. Two wrongs certainly don't make a right but pointing to one side and calling foul is certainly not objective is it?

I aways say, "Call a spade a shovel"
Which of course, could also be taken many ways.

That way, there's only misunderstanding.
Politics 101

Michelle Obama should be thanking the Clintons instead of dissing Hillary since her husband can't seem to fend for himself in any effective manner.

could not have said it better Mr. President

I dont think the hard right will understand the term disaggregate as it is not in King James. I think the President is being very presidential in his handling of the racial issue. Whether real or not, a lesser person would have taken the issue as bait and let the distraction destroy any headway on the main issues the President has said are his goals, healthcare, and making jobs and doing our part to try to clean up the earth. Probably no President was handed such a basket of worms with no notice upon taking office. He is skillfully handling the basket of worms given to him at the last hour as well as moving forward with regaining American stature in the world. People who say they dont care what the rest of the world thinks do not realize how small the world has gotten lately.

How is "YOU LIE" a racist comment? Obama lied.......and was called out, I really can't see what that has to do with the color of his skin. Are black people considered liars? There must be something the rest of us are missing with this phony racist uproar.

Oh give it up, Clinton has really turned into some angry WHITE guy. He seems to have gone off the deep end.............or his medication!

Obama is trying to lead this country alright , into bankruptcy.

Why does everything have to about race these days? The president is black. There were white, brown, and all other races that voted for him. I hope they are enjoying the change that he has brought upon this country. I do not say this because he is black; I say this because the man doesn't know anything about business, the security of our country, or health issues. How could he? He has never had to do anything for himself or family. This country is starting to rise up against stupid politics. I say amen. The people need to take this country back from the government, and start again.

Give our country back....

I think President Bill Clinton is right. We ought to move on from our pasts. After HE is the one man that made the impossible possible. That is rescuing the two journalists from N.Korean clutches. I do not think that President Obama would have been as influential as him.

Obamis trying to lead this country alright, into bankruptcy.

I am from South Carolina and I would bet you a hundred dollars against a wooden nickel that Wilson's comment was because Obama is an African American.

It is under the covers all over South Carolina to this day, but the laws of course keep in under the covers .

Sunday's the most segregated day of the week. I know people there that says the African Americans go to Chuch on Sunday to find out how to get on Welfare or something from the government for nothing.

I also know white people there that will say they hurt their backs and get crocked lawyer and doctor and about a year later they will throw away the cane and those that know him will say he got his social security supplemental income check he threw away the cane and laugh about it when they know it was a farce.

well said Bill Clinton

I am extremely proud of both Presidents Carter and Clinton who have the courage to address the 'elephant' in the room. They are correct that some of the criticism is because people legitimately feel that they have a counterpoint, however, a significant portion of the criticism is racial in nature. The republicans along with their leaders- like limbaugh have succeeded in whipping their party's illiterate into a frenzy while couching their own racist agenda. Kudos of President Carter and President Clinton for having the courage to speak out.

Very well stated! Mr. Clinton, you were a wonderful president. Thanks for all you did to move this country forward, and thanks for your continued efforts against racism. Very well done!

Is Mr. Clinton a wolf in sheep's clothing? Can anyone really believe anything he says? Wasn't he found guilty of lying, impeached and disbarred?
There seems to be a lying pandemic coming out of the presidency. Was there really an existence of weapons of mass destruction in Iraq. How was it possible the Bin Laden family was able to get out of the country so fast after 9/11. Is it possible the presidents of this country believe the citizens can't handle the truth?

Way to go Bill

I agree completely.

Enough of making Obama a victim of racism. Hasn’t it already been told that he is more Iranian and white than African American? People oppose him on his healthcare bill because it is not a good idea for the American people. It certainly is not good enough for Obama and his family. The president is under attack because he is not doing a good job. Simple as that. If he was white it would be the same. He is in way over his head. He is making very bad decisions that our great grandchildren will still be paying for. He is very typical democrat big government mentality. The benefit to him is he will have more people to blame, unfortunately we have to pay for them. Obama said Americans were arrogant?? He is the most arrogant of all. He is only in that office because of his color and his lies.

Clinton was in idiot (and a proven liar) when he was president and he remains so today. He was unfaithful to his family time after time, wagged his finger at me as a citizen and lied to me, and now he wants to say that "some of the people opposed to obama are racist." No duh Bill. Some of the people who support Obama are racist, so what does that matter.

Please just retire to Arkansas and try your best not to become the next Jimmy Carter. There is still some hope you can do that.

hte racism that has surfaced targeted against President Obama is a disgrace, and is an embarassment for the Country.

Mr. President, I'm not really a huge fan of yours but there have been a number of times I've admired you for your stand, and this is one of them. I'm a white guy and oppose Obama's health care agenda, but because I truly believe it's not the right way for us to go, NOT because he's black. I couldn't care less what color he is...he won the election and he's our President. ALL of us need to take a big ol' chill pill, listen to each other, recognize that we CAN have genuine differences in philosophy, values, etc. and RESPECT each other for our differences even as we try to find compromise. The problem today is that both sides are so polarized and so busy yelling at each other that they're not doing what Steven Covey said to do as a basic principle... "Seek first to understand, THEN to be understood".

". . . we should disaggregate lingering problems of discrimination from the attacks to which the president is subject.” Former President Clinton isn't in goverment any more, but he sure hasn't lost his accent.

Finally the voice of reason. President Clinton is so right. NOT everyone, NOT even the majority of people who disagree with President Obama or do not approve of his agenda are racist. We need to stop this insanity and stop perpetuating the problem of racism. This tack that the media is on is only going to make problems where we do not need problems and widen a gap that we as a nation have been working to bridge.

Get the Joh Birchers out of the party and we'll have a Conservative Republican party. In case you don't know, John Birchers don't want our Constitution, nor do they want Unions or democratic institutions. THE SOCIETY is fashioned after the COMMUNIST only they want it in the secret name of FASCISM.

disaggregate – wow not theres a 25 cent word – does 99% of the world know what that really meant?

To quote Clinton...."And I believe if he were white, every single person who opposes him now, would be opposing him then."

This is the only thing I can say I agree with Clinton....ever since his whoring days of his 2nd term....I have had no respect for the man....still don't.

Don't worry Bubba, Barry makes you and Hillary the most HONEST people in America. You don't need to lie for him anymore.

Clear as mud Bill...

But it was ok for him to go to racism when Hillary was being beat. Hypocrite.

Poor Jimmy Carter is hurting not helping these issues over racism and President Obama. Lets stop harping on this and keep focused on the issue. I am caucasian, was Republican, voted for President Obama and I like many , many other caucasians don't give a hoot what color a persons skin is as long as we can make some progress in our country and our president leads us. Let's be positive about this issue and get rid of negative comments and influence. AND can't we count on the media to help this get off on the right foot? No more racial issues, PLEASE.

President Clinton is right on this one. However, I don't believe the president's (or congress') plan for socialized medicine can win on the merits. There are too few. Even though I am very conservative and usually disagreed with President Clinton on political issues, I always found him personally likable. Politics aside, for sheer entertainment value, I sure do miss that guy.

If there is any racism in the disagreement with President Obama's performance, it has got to be only a very very small part of it.

I'm certainly one who disagrees with much of what is being done by the administration and congress right now, but to tell you the truth I would pick Obama over Hillary Clinton without a second thought.

But then again, I would pick Condoleeza Rice over either of them for President in a heartbeat. She's brilliant, experienced and has the right perspective of the role of government in America.

Nicely put Clinton. It is not always about racism. CNN why are you so hung up on race? I mean if you always want to paint a sob story of some poor victims, why not look at other groups rather than race motivated hate (and obviously by race you mean blacks vs whites) why not do reports on women, gays, orphans etc. Why always on race? I am getting tired of reading these boo-hoo stories all the time, but if you must, please find other groups to write about.

Obama needs to come out and tell the media to stop calling everything racist.
People don't like him because his "change" is leaving us with little "hope". I voted for him... and I feel cheated.

I think he's redeemed himself from the primaries he battled with Hilary's candidacy.

Nor every Republican I know is racist, but every single racist I know is Republican (or at least Conservative). Overall, most Republicans are not racist – except for perhaps in the South.

obama is'nt even certified to run this country, clinton is an idiot. end of story

and I believe that some of the left-wing extremists are so racially motivated that they cannot believe that anyone would dare oppose a man's politics for any other reason than his race.

It is about time cooler heads prevailed. I just spent eight years being told I was "unpatriotic" by the former administration for not agreeing with every policy that went forward, I wasn't looking forward to 4-8 more years of being told I was a "racist" if I dared disagree with the current president.

Let's do a poll on this. While there are significant issues of historical and political interest, CNN does an online poll on whether or not we think our dog is smart, or did we watch the awards show. Such nonsense. Please do some polling on the issues of the day and see if we all think that conservatives are racist...I certainly don't, but it's always a good excuse.

Good. A reasonable analysis. I oppose a lot of what Obama wants to do – I need to be able to voice my opinion without being concerned that my disagreement is deemed racist. It is McCarthy-ism all over again – but instead of communists it's racism. Not saying that racism does not exist, that elitism is dead, etc, but argument without quarrel needs to be possible and the racial slur mitigates that option.

so basically whenever obama cant pass something they start calling everyone a racist? i think hes done this on everything he's tried passing so far and i doubt this comment will be posted as cnn.com is currently in bed with obama like most major networks