10 days that led to a controversy over race

Na'eem, Cleveland, Ohio — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 16:48:49 GMT

I dont think the Clinton's are racist. But I do believe that their strategy is to turn Barack Obama into an Al Sharpton/Jesse Jackson candidate. Typical triangulation hoping that if they get the nom people will just forget.

10 days that led to a controversy over race

Kevin, SF CA — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 16:49:17 GMT

Dr. King would probably have thought, "Give me Obama over Hillary any day of the week and twice on Sunday."

10 days that led to a controversy over race

Amy B Portland, ME — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 16:50:35 GMT

I think Dr. King would havbe been very proud that a majority of the Democrats in one of the whitest states in the union, voted for an African American candidate called Barack Obama. And the reason he lost in NH? A bunch of very old ladies turned out to support Hillary. No one was voting AGAINST Obama because of his race. Dr. King would be very proud of us.

10 days that led to a controversy over race

Stopwatchinghardball, Rochester, NY — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 16:51:37 GMT

Why is MSNBC, still trying to fan the flames of race in this election? Please, just stop. The candidates called a truce yesterday, but you guys keep bringing it up. Shame on MSNBC.

Inflation up 6.3% this year, unemployment up this year, mass foreclosures this year, Bush trying to start a war with Iran, trouble in Pakistan, The most deadliest year in Iraq and now we are in or headed in recession and yet this is what MSNBC, Chris Matthews, and the rest of the media idiots want to talk about.

Shame on you!

10 days that led to a controversy over race

A Babe in Texas — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 16:51:41 GMT

Hillary is a particularly prickly person.

What is her experience? That she has worked on things? Give me a break! I have worked on my flowerbeds, but that doesn't make me a horticulturist!

No wonder the democrats never win anything. Look at their pathetic caididates!

10 days that led to a controversy over race

Shadow, Hamden, CT — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 16:52:06 GMT

Obama taking the first step to call a truce shows tremendous character and leadership on his part; despite the fact that comments by Rangold, Johnson, and the candidate herself have been causing HRC's African American poll numbers to plummet nationwide, Obama refused to let that continue to his political advantage, instead calling a truce in the name of the unity his rhetoric has always inspired to. Well done.

10 days that led to a controversy over race

Lyn, MD — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 16:52:38 GMT

What would Dr. King have thought of the last 10 days?

I am sure you (white) members of the MSM claim to know...until you have walked in the shoes DON'T pretend to know.

Can't let it go can you ...even when there is no more to say you need to rehash YOUR version....I wonder what he would think of your behavior also...stoking the flames of discontent...trying to divide the nation

10 days that led to a controversy over race

Eorse, St. Louis — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 16:52:45 GMT

Will Obama accept VP spot assuming HRC wins the nomination? I want him to say no to HRC. Is this possible? Will saying no hurt his career?

10 days that led to a controversy over race

Nashville_fan — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 16:53:23 GMT

Hmmm, I didn't see any mention of any actions by Senator Obama's campaign to stoke this issue. Actually, it seems that Senator Obama has been acting in the exact OPPOSITE of what the Clinton campaign has accused him of. Wonder why the media continues to report it as an ongoing back and forth between two campaigns when it is actually ongoing attacks coming from the Clinton campaign?

10 days that led to a controversy over race

Rhoda, Tampa Bay — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 16:53:46 GMT

Frankly, it represents the status quo in this party. I am astounded by the antipathy toward Sen. Obama that Congressman Rangel showed in (1) mischaracterinzing his comments and (2) falsely stating Sen. Obama injected the racial aspect with his comments on MLK when it was Sen. Clinton who actually did this.

I don't know about the democratic party at large or the nation or what it means to be an African American. But a friend of mine brought home a good point: Sen. Obama is the only African American senator. The only one. I think that race is not only an issue among democrats but among African Americans. I would hope that Congressman Rangel's constituents would remember his comments in the future.

Personally, I'm changing my registration after I get a chance to vote in the primary. And I'm seriously going to look at the Republican party or hope Mayor Bloomberg enters the race if Sen. Clinton is the nominee.

This has definitly opened my eyes.

I guess it really does start to feel like a false hope that an African American could be president; especially with the Clintons so easily able to turn their own tone deaf political mistakes around and blame the Obama campaign. And then have that idea take root as fact, when it isn't.

10 days that led to a controversy over race

Dee of VA — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 16:54:33 GMT

Finally, an accurate accountability of what actually happened! It boggles my mind how anyone could claim that Senator Obama was stoking this when this BS all started with Senator Clinton, with her patronizing attitude, lecturing Senator Obama about MLK and JFK. Whether he was or wasn't comparing himself to the two (which he wasn't) who the hell is she to chastise him? That would be like someone telling her she couldn't compare herself to Susan B. Anthony or Katie Stanton.

10 days that led to a controversy over race

John Doe, Seattle, Wash. — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 16:55:26 GMT

I really think the press is blowing this out of proportion. The initial controversy was over whether civil rights gains were primarily the result of the political process or grassroots movement-building. The media turned the story into race.

10 days that led to a controversy over race

Sharon — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 16:56:11 GMT

As I help organize our local group of Obama supporters as we plan to participate in a parade in honor of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., I have given your last question a great deal of thought.

I think that Rev. King is smiling down on Barack Obama today. I believe that Dr. King has finally seen some progress in his dream that some day, a man can be judged not by the color of his skin, but by the content of his character. The decisive win in Iowa and near win in New Hampshire have tested this.

As I celebrate Dr. King's birthday and his memory today, I feel hope in my heart that his dream will be realized in this election. He knew that we wouldn't get there without bumps in the road, but we are getting there, and that is the take home message.

Barack Obama embodies all that Martin Luther King worked and fought and sacrificed for. He layed the groundwork for Senator Obama, and I am certain that he is proud as Senator Obama walks with courage and conviction down the very path Rev. King made for him.

He's smiling from above on this glorious day, because we are on the cusp of history, and with that, of healing.

10 days that led to a controversy over race

Scott, Ft Lauderdale, FL — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 16:57:16 GMT

I dont understand the reasoning for continuing to bring up his race. Yes he is a black man, yes his name is Barack Hussein Obama. Who doesnt know this already? The Obama camp has yet to really attack in this campaign yet they are being accused of this over and over. These same type of politics are the reason I support Obama for President. "The Establishment" is fighting tooth and nail to maintain power. Can America finally stand up to the status quo?

10 days that led to a controversy over race

modernwoman, Anytown,USA — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 16:58:01 GMT

The last 10 days would have made Martin Luther King very sad indeed. Happy Birthday, Dr. King, even though many seek to destroy your dream, there are those of us who will always have it in our hearts, no matter what is done or said!

10 days that led to a controversy over race

Chuck in Denver — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 16:58:03 GMT

This is a very impressive summary of this chain of events by Mr. Montanaro. However, I do feel that the recent intemperate comments by Rep. Rangel demand a response by the Obama campaign and are likely to inflame matters further.

10 days that led to a controversy over race

RENEA — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 17:00:18 GMT

FOR HILLARY TO ALLOW JOHNSON TO MAKE THE REMARKS ABOUT OBAMA THAT HE DID WITHOUT TAKING HIM TASK WAS NOT A PROFILE IN COURAGE!

10 days that led to a controversy over race

Charlie "monument to me" Rangel — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 17:03:49 GMT

Charlie Rangel's comments are immature and will do nothing to unite the Democratic party. I guess his mother never told him, if you can't say something nice, don't say anything at all.

10 days that led to a controversy over race

James, Cleveland, Ohio — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 17:03:53 GMT

I find it interesting that while appealing to fican american voters they, the Clinton's, use African Amrican surrogates to denigrate the 1st viable African American Presidential Candidate. I do not owe the Clinton's my vote and neither doe any other African American.

10 days that led to a controversy over race

Rob, Phoenix, AZ — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 17:04:28 GMT

I think that Dr. King would have been ashamed of the media (many who claim to be progressive and enlightened) for sensationalizing the whole race flap. He would have been disappointed in particular of the media's attempt to promote Clintons remarks as racist (king and LBJ were friends). He would have been proud of Obama for trying to stay above the fray while he would have loathed John Edwards for injecting himself into the matter in order to politicize the Clinton/Obama controversy for his own political gain. Did anybody else notice that Edwards, through his campaign manager, on Morning Joe today was still injecting himself into the fray EVEN AFTER both Obama and Clinton asked that the matter be put to rest. That was disgusting on Edwards part.

10 days that led to a controversy over race

Andrea, California — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 17:08:10 GMT

Women: Is electing this woman the huge achievement that the woman's movement wants? Other than being able to say, "we sure showed that old boy's club," is it really an accomplishment?

A few names: Governors: Christine Gregoire, Sarah Palin, Linda Lingle, Kathleen Sebelius, Janet Napolitano, Jennifer Granholm

Senators: Dianne Feinstein, Barabara Boxer, Nancy Pelosi, Susan Collins, Olympia Snowe, Lisa Murkowski,

CEOs: Anne Mulcahy (CEO of Xerox), Meg Whitman (CEO of Ebay)

Nobody agrees with all of these women all the time but aren't these just a few of the millions of women who should be at the front of America's conscious when we think about women who are icons and achievers? Aren't these the women we want the world to think of when it thinks: "American Women Who are Leaders."

What we saw in the past week was a continuation of Karl Rove politics. Only those with a blind loyalty to Mrs. Clinton argue otherwise. Sure we didn't see that from Senator Clinton the first 8 months of the campaign. That's because she was winning. When she was finally under pressure though, her true nature came out.

If what we saw the past week was any indication of what we would get in a general election and then from President, is that a legacy we want to leave for our daughters, for our sons, and for our country?

Women in this country are strong. There's an extremely strong bench of great candidates in the pipeline. This is not "the only chance" to elect a woman President. It is however a chance to end the disgusting campaign tactics that some will use to achieve their own ends.

10 days that led to a controversy over race

justin, new york. — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 17:10:12 GMT

so umm...i fail to find one instance in which senator obama was "DISTORTING" words.

americans, please wise up and look at character, judgment, and choices. it is absolutely clear who the leader is and who the child is in this election.

10 days that led to a controversy over race

Alex — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 17:12:26 GMT

The Clinton's surrogates are not letting the issue rest despite the Truce - see this link. http://www.washingtonpost.com/wp-dyn/content/article/2008/01/14/AR2008011402980.html

10 days that led to a controversy over race

Patty Ulatowski — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 17:12:30 GMT

Dr. King is looking down and shaking his head. Obama has not yet paid his dues as Dr. King did. Clinton (both Clinton's) have made enormous in roads for civil rights. It is in the record books. I think he is pleased that both candidates have called a truce and will now focus on the issues of which "race" is not one of them.
MSNBC and all of you affiliated with it MUST STOP! You have fueled this for the sake of your occupations. You have had your say now stop!

10 days that led to a controversy over race

Hillary 08 — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 17:13:34 GMT

Take away Obama's fake MLK speeches and there is nothing there. No experience and no substance behind the rhetoric. This guy is a shame and once you take away the mask and slogans you just have another rich guy smooth talking his way into a job he isn’t qualified for.

10 days that led to a controversy over race

jerry/corpus christi texas — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 17:13:57 GMT

I love the way everybody blames MSNBC for "flaming the race card in this issue"

Considering it was Hillary who brought up MLK....
Considering it was Bill and his "spadework" title.....

I notice how no one is taking Bill Clinton to task for that term.....
Yet they try and destroy Don Imus for his words.....

I also notice Al Sharpton is not taking anybody to task for mentioning Bill Clinton as the first black president.....

10 days that led to a controversy over race

Ron, TX — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 17:14:17 GMT

What!? You mean Obama DIDN'T bring up race, and you mean Clinton still accused Obama of injecting race into the story, even though there hasn't been a single quote that can ever be produced of Obama mentioning race in this whole MLK fiasco?

But that doesn't make sense! Why does the media keep buying into Clinton's argument that Obama played the race card? Isn't it true that Obama has actively -avoided- the race card?!

I can't believe Clinton would try to distort the record and lie so much... it can't be true! Can it?

All I know is that I'm glad Obama took the high ground and ended it. I hope Charlie Rangel's comments, which are complete and utter falsifications, are publicly rejected by the Clinton campaign.

10 days that led to a controversy over race

Steve, Hartford, CT — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 17:14:51 GMT

I hope that the encouraging signs I see on these blogs (which are my only real method of tuning into the American political consciousness) are meaningful. It seems to me that all of this media hysteria has only brought the point home to Obama supporters that this campaign is going to be long, and hard, and we ALL need to vote, but in the end we can get past this crap and start rebuilding America.

Obama '08!

10 days that led to a controversy over race

PulSamsara — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 17:16:26 GMT

Clinton stuck her foot in her mouth and tried to blame someone else for it.

That is the only issue.

Everything else is just BUNK.

10 days that led to a controversy over race

Hallihunt, Decatur, GA — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 17:16:27 GMT

Well, let's play the devil's advocate here. Andrew Young and John Lewis (who marched side by side with Rev. King) are supporting Hillary Clinton. Obama has deliberately stayed on the sidelines as much as possible when questions of race have arisen - a smart move in a country that still responds with visceral support or anger to racial disparities in the news (Jena 6, Hurricane Katrina, etc). I think Rev. King would have looked at both sides of the issue. He would applaud the fact that we have come this far - but he might question the fact that an African-American candidate must shy away from speaking candidly about racial issues in America today in order to appease prospective voters.

10 days that led to a controversy over race

Lakisha Jones, Montgomery, AL — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 17:17:44 GMT

Dr. King would recognize Obama as just another guy jumping on his wagon for the free ride after someone else did all the work. It takes more than fancy words and promises with no substance to be a leader.

10 days that led to a controversy over race

Rick,ky — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 17:17:52 GMT

Michigan voter's, vote UNCOMMITTED today & send Hillary to defeat. Let her campaign explain a loss to UNCOMMITTED.

10 days that led to a controversy over race

Kat, Charleston, South Carolina — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 17:18:06 GMT

I am very proud of Obama for calling a truce. That's Character. It's so easy to get into the back and forth, tit for tat blame game. Let's talk about the Rep. not each other(i'm a Demie also.):)
There is always going to be people dividing us as people in this country. A long time ago they hide behind white robes, nowadays they hide behind desks(particularly in the media etc.)

10 days that led to a controversy over race

Donna, Seattle, WA — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 17:20:07 GMT

what.....I have read all this on all the news sites over and over the last few days...enough already....please move on with pertinent facts....voting records, speeches on issues, plans, for voters to use in making a decision.

10 days that led to a controversy over race

Daniel, San Francisco, California — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 17:21:18 GMT

You know the difference between Hillary's attacks and Obama's? Hillary's are personal. Hillary is attacked on the substance of her record, riding the middle, and sometimes to the right, thus labeled as "status quo". Obama is accused of bringing false hope, being no JFK..., living in a fairytale. All attacks are on his character. The Clintons disgust me.

10 days that led to a controversy over race

AP from IL — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 17:21:36 GMT

Thanks to MSNBC for the well done chronolgy of events. To me it appears that the whole thing started when Hillary jumped on Obama and claimed he was comparing himself to JFK and MLK. When you read the account above, you can see that he wasn't. She twisted it around to suit her purpose knowing that very few would have heard his actual quote. She used it as an opportunity to bring race into the discourse. A gamble on her part but one she was willing to take because once terms like "playing the race card" entered the conversation she felt it would hurt Obama the most.

The thing she never anticipates is that Obama somehow navigates these traps and continues to look like the more calm, stable leader in comparison to all of Clinton's frantic manuevering. No wonder she broke down in NH. I guess continually lying and cheating can be very stressful.

10 days that led to a controversy over race

Benito Camarillo — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 17:21:37 GMT

Barack Obama's self-admitted experiments as an inexperienced teen were normal and have not negatively affected him nor the USA; I cannot say the same about the actions of an educated adult Hillary Clinton nor her husband Bill, both of whom are highly intelligent and in my opinion morally bankrupt and dangerous to us all.

10 days that led to a controversy over race

Judie,. Wolf Creek, Oregon — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 17:24:00 GMT

Anyone who thinks race is NOT the central issue in this election (whether it is talked about or not) should walk a mile in my shoes.

10 days that led to a controversy over race

fact — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 17:24:59 GMT

HRC, is a lose lunatic and power monger, a Washington self serving paperhanger, one of many who have strangled congress.

Change Means change , not to mask issue!!

Every stump stop has caused conjecture,scandal, and a never ending release of miss informed information.

HRC, stumped by the past scandal is pure conjecture.

We the people have said ENOUGH IS ENOUGH! Yet the fool can't get the picture.. your not electable Clinton!!!!

10 days that led to a controversy over race

Russ Wells, Maine — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 17:26:29 GMT

Once again the media has to create news sensational....Leave the race issue alone...Let the people decide the out come and back off from throwing wood into the fire...Spend time at whats wrong with American....Wastefulness in katrin and many more disaster states that have suffered grt loses and the money that just doesnt seem to get there....Wer now giving 20billion in weapons to the saudis...Now that putting wood on a fire... Spend time on ss, health care, hunger, jobs, Manuf Jobs, importing more than we export...To many things from China. Pretty soon we will have to learn. Chineise..There so much need Just in American alone...Quit funding all the other countries..Humanitarian yes...weapons of md and nuclear weapons No....Stop trying to be N0 1 ........{Change }. The media has the resources to try to help solve some of these issues..So rather than be critical use your resources to help solve these problems.

10 days that led to a controversy over race

Jimmy, Philadelphia, PA — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 17:27:25 GMT

Obama has definitively shown he has the character to lead this country. The statements by the Clintons are the least bad thing their campaign has done during this fiasco. Rather, their attempt to drag down Obama for statements THEY made, is the ultimate in sleazy politics. This has not been a back-and-forth...one side has been offensive, the other has chosen not to play. I'm a democrat in a swing state whose evolved to be strongly behind Obama, but after watching the Clintons since their loss in Iowa, if Hillary ends up winning the nom, she better hope McCain doesn't win the Republican nom, because I and others like me will defect and hand her a convincing defeat in November.

10 days that led to a controversy over race

Robert Pittman,Kissimmee Fl — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 17:27:37 GMT

I am very surprised by Mr Rangle. I hope his constituency remembers his Statements and him(keep the status quo)When I lived in New York he was my hero I never seen his keep the status quo undertones. Brother what is the matter with you.

10 days that led to a controversy over race

Ari Washington, DC — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 17:27:46 GMT

Today is Martin Luther King's Birthday, and as a democrat, my attention has been brought to race this week by the unfortunate comments of the Clinton campaign. A bit about me: I'm a white woman in her late 20's, and on paper I look like your average starry eyed Clinton supporter. I do feel that I have a rare perspective, however, working in DC social services, where nearly ALL of my superiors, coworkers, subordinates, and clients are black. I am in that rarest of situations where it wouldn't occur to you to describe an individual as black but it is necessary to clarify that the person in question is white. So am I claiming to understand race politics and love all African Americans? Quite to the contrary, but i feel that if anything my picture is more rounded because both the people I like and dislike most in my community, the people I respect and the people who most annoy me, have a different skin color from my own. I truly see people as who they are, for better or for worse, and while being a minority in my daily life was awkward at first, I've come to love it. I feel that after over a year of this immersion, I am finally seeing the content of people's character, rather than their skin without really thinking about it. So that's my perspective as I see it. Do I feel that I am superior? Heck no.....my life simply created circumstances that gave me this opportunity to take race, at least for much of my life, out of the equation. Oh I see how intrenched racism hurts my clients in my daily work, I am not naive, but at some point it just stopped registering in my mental conceptions of people.

Before women write me off as anti-women, I will out myself as a feminist. I took courses in women's studies in college and grew to love identity politics and liberal feminism. And I defended feminists when the men in my life called us loud, crude, ugly, queer, or passe. I was proud. And I learned about the history of feminism, who's early roots were in the abolitionist movement. I was dismayed to learn that when African Americans recieved the vote after emancipation, they dropped the cause of women voting like a rock. I thought that this was low and opportunistic, though I tried not to judge because I've never ever had to walk a mile in a slave's shoes. Of course African Americans were relieved to be voting and emancipated and wanted to move on. But this Clinton surge among women in general and feminists in particular has made me question whether my feminist sisters ever really did move on from this moment. And it leads me to question whether two wrongs make a right.

I would like to state for the record that it never crossed my mind that the Clintons were racist. They are simply opportunists, who we allow as a public to push our buttons. They are the ultimate old boys club with deep pockets and powerful friends. Someone probably did a poll and decided that the course of action being taken was prudent. But to me that just makes the truth of what is happening all the more sad. When I defended feminism, I claimed that identity politics was about more than promoting token women up the ladder. It was about creating role models of which our daughters could be proud and creating a network for young women out of reach of the Old Boy's Network. Now I'm wondering if my baiters were right.

If you truly love and respect Hillary Clinton as a woman and a candidate, then I am not talking to you. You do me proud as a free thinking female voter. This is to all the women, who talk about feminism and vote for Clinton because she doesn't have an y chromosome. This is to the women, who voted for Hillary because she cried and didn't even bother to listen when Obama put out his economic plan this weekend and compare it objectively with Clinton's before making a decision. This is to women who put the ideal of a woman president before the content of Hillary Clinton's character.

Ladies, I am ashamed of what your identity politics has become. Clinton doesn't embody our dreams simply by being a woman. I know that it is tempting to project every thwarted dream, every glass ceiling you hit your head on onto this one pretty face, but Hillary Clinton is not you. She is not a lone female crusader against the world. She is a carefully marketed brand, who came to power by riding on the coattails of a powerful man as a way of making a name for herself. And she was part of the Barry Goldwater campaign a zillion years ago. And so I appeal to you: don't make this skin or gender deep. Vote your conscience. If Hillary's politics turn you on, I can respect that, but if Hillary's tears have turned you into a manhater, might I suggest that you may have been lured into becoming what you hate most? Sexist?

I happen to support Barrack Obama after hearing him speak and comparing his debates to Hillary's. You may or may not. Just please, I implore you: try to be open-minded and fair, and remind America that women DO deserve the vote. Give it a critical look and show this country that the woman's movement shills for NO ONE. This may not be about race, but it's not about gender either. See you tonight at the Democratic Debate. :)

10 days that led to a controversy over race

Randall Price — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 17:28:07 GMT

I believe the Obama campaign wanted to find something to beat up Clinton with and race was an easy issue. I find no problem with a woman or a black running for President or even a Republican! Say what you want about John McCain...you may not like what he says but he says it straight out and for a politician that is refreshing. It's what we need from our canidates...now more than ever.

10 days that led to a controversy over race

Jim Curry, Woodridge, IL — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 17:28:23 GMT

This is all beside the point, you know. What people should be thinking about is whether Clinton or Obama are qualified to be President. How many people remember how Obama got to be elected a U.S. Senator from Illinois in the first place? It is not because he was a stand-out candidate. It was because he was running against a last-minute Republican candidate. Back in 2004, Peter Fitzgerald decided not to run for re-election, even though he had done a fine job. The Illinois Republican party nominated Jack Ryan to run for U.S. Senate, but then he dropped out of the race after bad news came out about his divorce. Then the idiotic Illinois Republican party replaced Jack Ryan with an out-of-state, right-wing black Republican by the name of Alan Keyes. That is how Barack Obama got elected. Obama had no real competition; the Illinois Republican party handed him the election. And now Obama is running for President. Thanks to the Illinois Republican party.

10 days that led to a controversy over race

Gayle, Baltimore, MD — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 17:28:34 GMT

You did an excellent summary. I watched Senator Clinton on meet the press and she kept playing the victim card; insisting that Senator Obama, Tim Russert, the media and anyone who disagreed with her comments were "deliberatly distorting" her words. It sounds like "Clinton Spin" to me. They have always worked by the moto, if you say it loud enough, long enough and often enough the American public will begin to believe what is being said. Well, this time we are listening and it is Senator Clinton who is deliberately distoring the facts and the sad part is that Bill Clinton is so anxious to support the wife he cheated on that he is destroying his own credibility with the Black community. I had considered Clinton, but now I am voting for Obama. If she should get the nomination, I will reluctantly vote republican for the first time in my life, in order to defeat her and her husband. Obama "should be judged not by the color of his skin, but by the content of his character" and right now he looks white as snow when compared to Hillary Clinton and her husband. He is not taking digs at Sen. Clinton she wants us to perceive her as the victim. We can't have that kind of a president. There is too much riding on our future. I really don't want a president that cries.

10 days that led to a controversy over race

Jon — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 17:28:45 GMT

Can anyone ever say anything about a minority without being called a racist? Although it's fine for a black to vote for a black because he's black, no racism there, if a white person tries to hold a black person individually accountable for something, then they are racists. What a dichotomy.

10 days that led to a controversy over race

Shan, Atlanta, GA — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 17:28:52 GMT

Why is Hillary attacking Obama on personality, when she supposedly has 35 years of relevant experience she needs to be telling us about in detail? What's included in this secret experience she speaks so highly of? Where was I when she was changing the world and the white house? Was she even there when she was doing all of this? Was it noticeable? I guess all of America must have missed it. I'll stop now...too many questions, too much pressure. I don't want her to cry. The whole world’s watching.

10 days that led to a controversy over race

Flabbergasted — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 17:29:03 GMT

You forgot Jesse Jackson Jr's televised accusation that Hillary's "tears" before NH primary were indicative of her lack of concern for "Katrina" (i.e. black people).

You also forgot the campaign memo from Obama's South Carolina press officer, which was leaked to the press, listing perceived racial insensitive remarks and/or alleged race baiting from the Hillary campaign, including truncated (and therefore misleading) quotes.

You also forgot Michelle Obama alluding to Bill Clinton's "fairytale" quote in a blatantly dishonest way that alleged (to a black audience) Clinton dismissed her husband's campaign rather than his Iraq War vote narrative as a fairytale.

If this isn't race baiting from Team Obama, I don't know what is.

10 days that led to a controversy over race

Sally, Boston, MA — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 17:29:11 GMT

I blame you, MSNBC. It is irresponsible for MSNBC and other media outlets to let this take center stage. It is certainly not the focal point of the Clinton campain nor of the Obama campaign. So, why try to dumb things down and turn it into one? Since when has opining been the work of journalists? Because of this and Mr. Mathew's comments on the night of the NH primary, I won't be watching MSNBC anytime soon.

10 days that led to a controversy over race

Aidyn, NY — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 17:30:13 GMT

this is were I see the problem:

"But Clinton’s remark was interpreted by some prominent African Americans to be a shot at the possibility of Obama’s campaign."

assuming is not good.
I dont think Clinton is racist and I am appalled that anyone would even think that.

10 days that led to a controversy over race

Dot, Illinois — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 17:30:17 GMT

I love the way everybody blames MSNBC for "flaming the race card in this issue"

Jerry:

The media is pushing this as an issue. We had serveral stories about it and now we NEED A RECAP of the days prior to the supposed incident?

10 days that led to a controversy over race

John Doe, Memphis, TN — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 17:30:41 GMT

The election is not about race. The democratic party has always supported equal rights. Also the democratic party has the poor in it's best interest no matter the color of their skin. What concerns me about Obama is he is muslin. Osama Obama is the correct way to refer to him. Obana is not Black. He is mixed between Kenya Black and Hawaian. He is more like the famous golfer who spoke out and said He was not black. Obama played the race card on the Oprah Winfrey Show. I can't believe that America would even consider electing a muslin as president after 9/11. Take race out of it. Looks at the real picture. Vote for anyone besides Osama Obama.

10 days that led to a controversy over race

WomenOver50, Portland, OR — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 17:30:52 GMT

Listening to the Clintons is like growing up in a nutty family: what was said is denied, and new spins are constantly advanced. In the case of the Clintons, who are capable of endless self-pity, filthy tactics justify their greed for power. I agree with the blogger who said she's ready to change her registration. I'm an independent from now on. If Hillary is the nominee, I'll either write someone in, or not vote.

10 days that led to a controversy over race

dale — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 17:31:10 GMT

Oh well...it's interesting what happens when liberal whites REALLY speak their mind. For all the fanfare about what demos have done when in the executive suite, many of the so-called firsts not all(sr cabinet level appointees, some judges, 2nd black supreme court justice, first TWO consecutive secretaries of state, and even ratification of said Civil Rights Bill) have come at the pen of republicans. Further, most white demos seem to think of blacks as perfect HUD and Sec of Education appointees and very rarely are seen side by side with them making major decisions (not sec of defense, or treasurere, or fed chief, etc). This country has a deep wound in the color conscience and the Clintons' comments reflect what liberal whites REALLY feel...only so far. You can go. But only so far.

No one is capturing my attention because it's all fluff. Fluff me through to the primaries and election night and then after January 20th or so, you MIGHT get a chance to see the real me.

What hypocrisy from everyone in this process. MLK and the founding fathers would be rolling over to resurrect if they knew the bafoonery at work here.

10 days that led to a controversy over race

james thomas, hoboken, nj — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 17:31:30 GMT

MLK was great man who made great speeches...but it was in fact LBJ, and the Republcans in Congress (beleive it or not) who voted to change the LAWS. The only real opposition seen for the civil rights act were southern DEMOCRATS... a fact lost on most.

My question is this... why do liberal's go so far out of their way to distort and re-write history? MLK changed no laws, he wasn't an elected offical nor was he PRESIDENT... but for some reason we all to pretend that he, and he alone, changed the world.. something that is simply just not true.

This is the stuff has forced Independents like me out of the Dem party. They're Polically Correct ways create more lies and distortions and does far more harm than good. just tell the truth and speak FACTS...not warm and fuzzy lies that may make certian people better.

10 days that led to a controversy over race

Ian J, Brooklyn, NY — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 17:32:34 GMT

Why does this article call this a "back-and-forth"? As the evidence in the article shows, all of the inflammatory statements have come from HRC. Obama stayed above the fray, commenting once but not passing judgment, and then called for it to end.

HRC quickly followed suit, "me too"-ing Obama's truce just as she "me too"-ed Obama's "change" platform. Why are so many of the reports on this dust-up so kind to HRC? She made the mistaken statement and created a controversy to try and blame it on Obama's campaign. It would be more fair for this article to be titled "Hillary creates controversy over race".

I only hope the public can see past the media's distortion of this event so we can all move past it.

10 days that led to a controversy over race

Rob, Phoenix, AZ — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 17:32:45 GMT

Justin, NY wroye: "so umm...i fail to find one instance in which senator obama was "DISTORTING" words."

justin, Obama was distorting the meaning behind Clinton's words. This was one point that most political observers said during this past week. It takes a strong executive legislator along with a movement or grass roots effort for things to change. That is all that was meant by Clinton's remarks.

10 days that led to a controversy over race

--Disgusted, NSMsnbc — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 17:33:15 GMT

I support Obama (race aside). I think the Clinton's comments were unfortunate, but not deliberately derogatory. B. Clinton was clearly not referring to Obama's race, but it would have been naive for him to not think his comments would have been taken out of context--by African American leaders, neutral, and not part of the Obama campaign. H.R. Clinton's comments were perhaps a tad worse. She was trying to underscore MLK Jr's accomplishments as a means to say that hope is futile and partisan politics works (that was her real message there). So, I don't blame them too much for the comments that began the debate, for they were unfortunate and naive--which I didn't think the Clinton's were supposed to be.

There are two shames that I see out of this debate. First, the Clintons' outright contempt for the truth, and rather quietly let a mistake go, they tried to score a political victory. If one looks at the Obama campaign's comments, they were not "the campaign" injecting race into this horserace. It is the Clintons and their surrogates saying both vile and untrue accusations. It is a shame the Clintons' opted to lie. The second shame is that the Democrats, Clinton supporters and the media went along with it. Because the truth would have made the media 'biased' ... what a load of crap. Seriously, what does the media have to lose, the Clintons' and the supporters hate the media anyway. THE OTHER thing that is a shame is how Obama got sucked into the argument, for no other reason than the color of his skin, not because of anything he said, because he didn't say anything wrong. For shame, for shame indeed.

I don't blame H.R. or W.J. Clinton for the initial comments, however unfortunate or naive, but the way they have handled themselves during this debate was a disgrace and. Sadly, I don't think either Clinton handled themselves like a future or past President!

10 days that led to a controversy over race

Hopeful, Orlando, FL — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 17:33:30 GMT

There’s no fool like an old fool - Bob Johnson, Charley Rangel. The list goes on and on. Skip the Clinton dog-and-pony show, Senator Obama. Leave them to their self-serving explanations. Stand on character - something that Senator Clinton seems unable to do. She cannot admit that her vote on the Iraq war was a mistake, nor will she concede that a reasonable person could conclude that her most recent remarks were dismissive of Dr. King’s contributions in the fight for civil rights. Get back on track, Senator Obama. Address the important issues facing our country. Remember, communication is what is perceived. Lay a proper foundation, tell us your vision for our future and we will all be well served.

10 days that led to a controversy over race

TIMA, CHARLESTON SC — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 17:33:45 GMT

These men that Obama referred to were ordinary men doing extra-ordinary things. Why wouldn't any of us compare ourselves to any of them. They too had to start somewhere!!!
I too, am Dr. Martin Luther King Jr!!!
I too, Have A Dream!!!!
I am Somebody!!!

10 days that led to a controversy over race

Dawn, Davenport, Ia — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 17:34:12 GMT

Why do you news reporters have to keep this going. Its not Obama and Clinton keeping it going ITS ALL OF YOU.
What happened to getting the story straight and getting the facts before you run it. You all should be disgusted with yourselves!!!!!!!!

10 days that led to a controversy over race

Boo hoo, all the boys are picking on me — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 17:35:06 GMT

I would like to point out that Obama has not brought up race. He only responded to the garbage being put out on Sunday, a week after it started. It's a shame that the main stream media has chosen to spin this as a war between candidates, when really only one candidate has kept it going by by sending out and endless parade of surrogates (I'm looking at you HRC)to keep it going. And NO, I don't see Hillary as racist, the truth of it is, she is an opportunist. For the past week, all I have heard is how bad, bad Obama keeps bringing up race and poor, sweet Hillary has no choice but to respond to his charges. That's quite a "fairytale" she has spun, given that Obama kept his mouth shut the whole time. I commend her for wanting to end this silliness, but will she demand her surrogates do the same and rebuke derogatory comments they make going forward. If she is the strong, confident woman she portays herself to be she will. Quite honestly, regardless of what Bob Johnson said about Obama, I do not understand why Hillary would want to have him on her side. Have you seen BET, the tv station he created? This man is the worst kind of misogynist and as a woman I am offended that Hillary Clinton would appear on a stage with him.

10 days that led to a controversy over race

KAT, Charleston, SC — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 17:36:48 GMT

As T.D. Jakes once said (and this had nothing to do with the candidateS for president)"LET'S KEEP THE MAIN THING THE MAIN THING."!!!!

10 days that led to a controversy over race

ADAY — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 17:38:14 GMT

Charlie Rangold, Shelia Jackson, and Robert Johnson have chosen their candidate…And in doing so they feel the need to bring down another Candidate.

The comments that come from these individuals do not represent many African American’s thinking…Do these out of date People of Color believe that Dr. King would not be proud of what Senator Obama has done…What’s apparent is that Clinton Campaign feels that if comments like these are said by an African American, then they are valet because they come from an African American …Many of us in the African American community are not this easily manipulated......And Shame on them for believing so....SHAME ON THEM!!!!!!

I bet if we look back in time, we probably could find the same type of individuals, around the same age, providing the same type of resistance to what Dr. King was trying to do…And that is bring about change…

Charlie Rangold, Shelia Jackson and Robert Johnson...Change doesn't just stop and end at your door because you have made it as far as you can…. Now it’s time for others to take the torch……

10 days that led to a controversy over race

--NSMsnbc — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 17:38:20 GMT

P.S. I think the media should realize that the women's rights movements and civil rights movements have often been historically at odds. Particularly, members of the suffrage movements threw African Americans and civil rights under the bus--so to speak. That is a point of history and a point of fact. I would be surprised if history didn't repeat itself.

10 days that led to a controversy over race

Hillary Clinton, false prophet — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 17:38:49 GMT

Dee wrote - That would be like someone telling her she couldn't compare herself to Susan B. Anthony or Katie Stanton.

She probably doesn't know who these women were, they didn't appear on BET.

10 days that led to a controversy over race

Dan in New Mexico — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 17:39:06 GMT

I think Dr. Martin Luther King would be very proud of Obama, for his candidacy, results in Iowa and NH, and stepping up to call the truce. HRC is showing some of the same traits as her husband, you can tell she isn't telling the whole truth because her lips are moving. Personally, its events like these that cause me to wonder why I spent 24 years in the military, defending our country and our freedom. Is this the reason why? We are in the middle of what could be the greatest series of events in our recent history, and instead of remarking on how phenominal that is, we have two candidates who aren't the "status quo" acting like the status quo. Argue, bicker and play one-ups-man-ship to gain that political foothold. Do we really want a President that will run our country that gets the position by running every one else down? It used to be that we would elect a President built on words like Trust, Respect and Integrity, seems like now we select the lesser of the evil. The whole process makes me ill.

10 days that led to a controversy over race

j fl — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 17:41:01 GMT

Seems to me, Mr Holier than thou Obama starting everything in the first place awhile ago with the Bushlite comment. Too bad if he can't take the heat. There will be tons more from the repubs if he gets the nomination. And I seriously doubt he can handle it. Hes a wimp.

10 days that led to a controversy over race

phil bell — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 17:42:26 GMT

there is no way that the clintons can be blamed for obamas drug use,inexperiance or moslim schooling that his loyalty to america should be called into question.

10 days that led to a controversy over race

mort levine — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 17:42:46 GMT

If this entire race controversy is to go away,the media will have to stop fanning the flames.They,more than anyone else are the reason we can't seem to get past all this.So they should stop the hypcrocasy they practice in the name of ratings and become responsible.

10 days that led to a controversy over race

phil bell — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 17:43:34 GMT

there is no way that the clintons can be blamed for obamas drug use,inexperiance or moslim schooling that his loyalty to america should be called into question.

10 days that led to a controversy over race

phil bell — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 17:43:45 GMT

there is no way that the clintons can be blamed for obamas drug use,inexperiance or moslim schooling that his loyalty to america should be called into question.

10 days that led to a controversy over race

coolio — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 17:44:10 GMT

Essentially this is becoming a battle between the naive (undereducated and easily manipulated), established interests with poltical opportuninties at stake, the elderly (with some racial prejudices) versus the people looking to get past all this political nonsense.

10 days that led to a controversy over race

Howard, Sidney Center, NY — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 17:44:22 GMT

what would Dr. King think of the last ten days of this campaign?....Dr. King would not approve of their message;...then he would pause and clear his throat before enlightening the crowd to the best remaining, qualified candidate on either ticket..."get out there and vote and vote for Edwards!"

10 days that led to a controversy over race

Elena Fraboschi, Bloomington, Indiana — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 17:44:52 GMT

10 days that led to a controversy over race

Ann upstate ny — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 17:45:24 GMT

OMG what will the media think up next to cause controversy. Just stop.

10 days that led to a controversy over race

Dr. Ashley, Chicago, IL — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 17:45:55 GMT

Finally..a somewhat accurrate assessment of the last 10 days. Take home points:

1. Obama didn't start this crap, and hasn't tried to fuel the flames for Hillary's ongoing, flailing campaign and desperation to try to make race an issue to help her failing campaign.

2. For a few people who feel Obama is all talk, you need to read the transcript from his Meet The Press interview from 11/07, or better yet, watch the video.

1. Consitutional professor
2. Civil Rights Attorney
3. Illinois State Senator for 8 years
4. Washington Senator for Illinois

When we talk about experience, you can't really count the "first lady" role as experience. Hillary wasn't the primary person making any decisions during ALL of those years, Bill was.

I hope they ask Hillary to name the 3 most important things she's initiated and completed in her alleged 35 years of servcie. It's about time someone make her explain WHAT in the world she is referring to.

3. Obama has put in time in the "real world" like the rest of us. He knows what it's like to struggle through the teen years, take care of his dying mother, and still wind up at Harvard Law in the same high position on the Law Review that Bill CLinton had...this is a self-made person who has worked hard to be where he is in politics and who worked tirelessly to help the poor in Chicago.

Please let's not try to make it seem that OBama is this naive person new to politics, it's just not true.

4. Obama still has my vote!
5. Everyone needs to move forward, this nonsense is just another way the Clintons are distracting from the real issues.

Working Americans for Obama!!!!

GO OBAMA

10 days that led to a controversy over race

Karl Boettner, Spokane, Washington — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 17:45:57 GMT

The democrats all need to focus on the true racist and true misogynist in this presidential race - Mike Huckaby.

10 days that led to a controversy over race

June — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 18:19:48 GMT

Dr. King will say to Obama; You talk too much. Show me what you have done and than we talk"

Dr. King will say to Hillary: I see your heart and soul through the years you fight for this country, for women, for children and for all people. Be ready on day one.

10 days that led to a controversy over race

Zak, NY, NY — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 18:19:52 GMT

These blogs never cease to amaze me. To Obama supporters he can simply do no wrong. You guys remind me of Bush supporters. It is more then naieve to think he had nothing to do with this and wasn't trying to use it for Political gain. You can support this guy if you want to obviously but don't be blind. He is a mere political operative just like CLinton, Edwards and any other. He is but an opportunist with a loyal cult like following for some strange reason. Tell me what he has done to receive the god like treatement. Next you Obama supporters will be saying its unpatriotic to criticize him.

10 days that led to a controversy over race

jane doe cape cod,ma — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 18:19:57 GMT

i actually believed that we would get through this entire election process without race being injected into the discussion.i do believe that this is indeed "a moment" in our collective history that we should celebrate. The media should have treated this squabbling as a non-event.Needles to say, Hilary clinton will not have my vote.

10 days that led to a controversy over race

Adam, Sacramento — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 18:20:54 GMT

Hmm race wasn't a subject at the debate. So it didn't start with edwards at the debate it started after the debate when clinton decided to play the female card so that iowa did not repeat.

To take attention off the female card she also played the fairy tale and race card so press coverage didn't get dominated by her portrayal of a vulnerable female to turn out the women vote and reverse the disturbing trend from Iowa. Before the race degenerated into sex based politics they threw out the red meat of race (the only issue that would overshadow a sex based story) to ensure it was not sex politics that got the headlines.

I doubt they wanted it to go this far but on the other hand they are setting up the surrogate excuses for a loss in South Carolina. They'll argue obama played race.

It's interesting you fail to discuss hillary's fundamental change from aloof and superior to feminine and soft. From In it to win it to in it for you. She had no choice but to put race on the table and she did it skillfully. It distrtacted from the story about her direct appeal to women. Anyone believe that subjugating MLK to Lyndon wouldn't get black commentators driving the story?

The clintons play politics well but I'll just note I don't see Blacks for Obama signs behind obama at speeches I do see women for hillary signs behind hillary. No who is really running on their genetic code.

10 days that led to a controversy over race

Nancy, SC — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 18:22:39 GMT

Shadow - Obama calling a "truce" now is NOT leadership!!
He willingly allowed the racist crap to continue! while his young supporters racheted up the rhetoric.

A leader knows when to jump in and provide leadership.
Obama DID NOT - until his internals indicated Edwards was rising in Nevada.

Go Edwards!

10 days that led to a controversy over race

Nancy, SC — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 18:22:40 GMT

10 days that led to a controversy over race

Rick,ky — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 18:23:09 GMT

I Agree With Barack!! Hillary Clinton's word's from last night.I knew it coming, just did'nt know when.

Barack Obama for President.

10 days that led to a controversy over race

jim - El Cajon — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 18:23:27 GMT

I was leaning toward Clinton.. but now I believe that Obama has twice the character that Clinton has. And character is important.

10 days that led to a controversy over race

CJ — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 18:23:48 GMT

Rangel and Johnson's comments are idiotic and as an Afican American it's points to them as being immature and regressive. Nobody is fooled, and the black community as a whole recognizes how wonderful Obama has been in this primary. The Clinton's pushed this issue (whith inaccurate rhetoric) and only backed down until the national media began fanning the flames even more.

10 days that led to a controversy over race

Odinboy, Seattle, WA — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 18:24:04 GMT

I've been a die-hard democrat/progressive/liberal my entire adult life. I've worked for social justice and environmental issues for two decades. I'm stating for the record right now, if its HRC vs John McCain, he'll get my vote. I simply can't handle the Clinton/Rove style of politics any longer.

10 days that led to a controversy over race

concerned voter — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 18:24:41 GMT

Nashville_fan...thank you for making that statement. I was wondering the same exact thing....very interesting. My vote goes to Obama!

10 days that led to a controversy over race

Paula, Charlotte, NC — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 18:26:29 GMT

I am so disappointed by the negative Clinton campaign! I have read all comments exchanged between all parties and I cannot find where Obama ever focused on race. It was HRC who began this downward spiral of trying to deceive and divide the American people. She brought up race first, got caught and is now playing the blame game. Hillary Clinton has shown she is willing to do anything to win this election. She is willing to sacrifice the Democratic Party just so she can say “I am the first woman President” (What a joke).

Also, how can she have Johnson represent her in this election? He may have billions of dollars, but Johnson is not intelligent. Mr. Johnson has destroyed an entire generation with the filth that is shown on BET. This alone has shown that Johnson is the true sell-out!!! Johnson would sell his own mother for a "buck". Since when does Johnson present the African American race? What a stupid move on the Clinton's (Maybe her campaign should have done some further research before sticking Johnson up there on Sunday). Please wake up people, don't let the Clinton's fool us!! They are only interested in making history. They will continue to destroy this country.... I am a democrat, but will vote anyone if HRC wins the nomination. By the way, at one time I was a strong Clinton supporter until I discovered the web of lies, continually cast by this insincere crowd. It is the Clinton’s that keep the web of lies, deceit and fear alive in this country.

Let’s vote for change!!!! Anyone but Hillary Clinton in 2008!!!

10 days that led to a controversy over race

james lee,millbrook, alabama — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 18:26:46 GMT

I have what I see as a more grevious complaint ...remember the first republican debate. The fact that health care was not even brought up once....i was a republican....now I've been forced into the democratic parties corner.....know this when you began to lose your health race relations and perceived slights against your character will not matter to you whether we are in an election cycle or not....

10 days that led to a controversy over race

S.I.Porter, Chicago, Illinois — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 18:26:58 GMT

Ten days? That's all you're looking at is 10 Days. I find it quite curious as to how many of the MSM is clutching to the MLK/LBJ scenario, AS IF that was the first Incident. Quite frankly, if you were being honest, Mr. Todd, you would be going back to the Shaheen Smear in New Hampshire. There is a Clinton Attacks Obama Wiki- Incident Page - that has, so far TWENTY-ONE Incidents of attacks on Senator Obama. And, it's quite curious how many of them, after the fact, are 'explained away' as ' misunderstandings' and 'misinterpretation' of the ENGLISH language. It becomes almost farcical, really.

http://clintonattacksobama.pbwiki.com/Incident+Tracker?full_access=Uv2WPiKahP&l=S

So, understand the HISTORY here. A series of ' Isolated Incidents' that are neither ISOLATED nor INCIDENTAL. They form a PATTERN. A fairly obvious PATTERN.

10 days that led to a controversy over race

Rebecca — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 18:27:22 GMT

Charles Rangel is a great American who has served his country admirably and honorably both in the war and then in congress. Yes he has proposed the draft. Why? Perhaps you should actually look into this before you defame and ridicule him. He rightly believes that the Iraq war is being fought by the poor in our society. The military families are carrying all of the sacrifice and have been for the last 5 years. He is trying to make a point. Does he believe it would become law? No, of course he doesn't. He has said as much. He has been trying to raise the topic to a national discussion. A reasoned debate. Not the knee jerk disrespectful rantings I have been seeing by many of the Obama supporters. I used to be neutral on Obama. If he was our nominee, great, I would support him. Not now. I have seen many great Americans savaged recently. It seems any of our older Americans who have contributed so much to our past but have the gall not to agree with Sen Obama are being denegrated by surrogates of this campaign. I am done with Obama.

10 days that led to a controversy over race

Let's move one to real subjects please — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 18:28:03 GMT

Please everyone - Press and Bloggers included, take a deep breath and read what U.S. House Majority Whip James Clyburn had to say on the subject today. It seems to me that he - the one person whose opinion EVERYONE wants - is the only voice of reason in all of this insanity:
He declined to endorse any one candidate, and as often as possible, included John Edwards in the conversation, noting that all three candidates are good presidential possibilities.
"I'm very hopeful now that this little episode will get this behind us very soon," he said. And he worried how the story could divide the party. "I think that people are talking about race versus gender, when we ought to be talking about Democrats versus Republicans."
There was also displeasure with Bob Johnson's swipes at Obama. A friend of Johnson's, Clyburn said, "He's a businessman much more than a politician. And sometimes businesspeople, who don't practice politics daily, will say things in a very un-artful way."
He warned that any discussion of gender, race and Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. must be treated with care, but also acknowledged, "I don't believe, having been a candidate very often myself that we ought to be just insanely politically correct about everything in a campaign."
Clyburn chose to speak out on the issue because, as he said, "My wife has been saying to me, 'Somebody needs to rise up and get this thing behind us so that the American people can have a very good, fruitful discussion about what ails us.'"

10 days that led to a controversy over race

Garry, Omaha, NE — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 18:29:00 GMT

I am afraid that both candidates are to blame for this argument. First, Senator Clinton, worried about Senator Obama's inspirational advantage, stated Dr King was inspirational, but it took President Johnson to pass the Civil Right Act into law. Her logic was misguided. Naturally, only a President can sign a bill into law (unless their veto is overriden by Congress). However anyone can initiate public support for a cause, as Dr King and many civil right supporters so bravely accomplished. Senator Obama, in response to Clinton, should have simply stated this, firmly but respectfully, without his cute comments on MLK telling the people to go home. Now hopefully we can stop talking about this and get on with issues that need immediate discussion, i.e. Irag, health care, economy, environment and education.

10 days that led to a controversy over race

Anna — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 18:29:35 GMT

This is so commonplace and boring.
When do we get to hear about the issues.
Health care for all Americans.
Education.
Ending the never ending war.
Poverty
Living wages.
The Patriot Act.
Their views on torture.
The war economy and how it has affected ordinary people?
Come on NBC, this is just rumor mill stuff.
Can we get back to the democratic process of determining our future President based on their stand on the issues and how they plan to implement them?

10 days that led to a controversy over race

Lindsay Page, Des Moines, Iowa — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 18:30:41 GMT

Chris Matthew of MSNBC-ardent Obama supporter was the first to inject race into this election. To taint the victory of Hilary in New Hamphire, he claimed Obama lost because of race. He should be ashamed of himself. Many people I talk to no longer watch his program because of his extreme bias for other candidates and religious support in whatever Obama does. He will want this race story to continue. It will hurt many people and will hurt his candidate-Obama most beyong South Carolina. I did not vote for Hillary but I hate the way he treats her.

10 days that led to a controversy over race

Andrew, Boston, MA — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 18:32:17 GMT

I think the hypocrisy of Obama supporters is astonishing. They try to say that Hillary attacks Obama personally while he only attacks on record. Then, they themselves go and say things like:

"No wonder Hillary cried, she's a liar," and "Hillary is evil, she'll do anything just to get elected!"

I could list more stupid, irrationally hateful comments, but I don't have the three hours it would take to write them all out. Maybe Obama's supporters aren't really into Obama's message of a "different politics." Maybe they just want to feel all good about themselves, pretending to buy into it, then continue "politics as usual" when it suits their moods.

Wake up!

10 days that led to a controversy over race

Jeff, Salt Lake City, UT — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 18:32:27 GMT

This is childish. I think the press is turning this into a race issue so they have something to talk about to get people to view the advertisements they're selling. Obviously these candidates will say and do anything to get elected, which means attacking each other about anything. Thats it. Period. Get over it and move on to the issues please.

10 days that led to a controversy over race

Robert, New York, NY — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 18:33:24 GMT

But Arnold figured that the words were calculated to bait Obama into speaking more about his race, thus distancing white voters.

"That's what it is," he said. "She's trying to pick him clean."

Experts, too, are trying to gauge how calculated the Clinton rhetoric is. David Bositis, a fellow at the Joint Center for Political and Economic Studies -- a think tank that focuses on issues of concern to blacks -- thinks the Clinton camp is sending signals that could alienate blacks but enhance the candidate's appeal to working-class whites.

"Hillary's people would like Obama to be seen as the black candidate," he said. "That would help in terms of her appeal to white working-class voters. They are voters who represent a backbone of the campaign."

Bositis, who is not affiliated with either campaign, said it reminded him of moves Bill Clinton made in his 1992 campaign that sent a message that "he was not going to be pushed around by Jesse Jackson."

Bositis also mentioned Clinton's high-profile 1992 return to Arkansas for the execution of Ricky Ray Rector, an African American, and to Clinton's rebuke of black hip-hop artist Sister Souljah.

10 days that led to a controversy over race

Seceding if Hillary is President — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 18:33:34 GMT

Letting the media get involved with politics is just a stupid waste of time. And all of you are trying so hard to make a case even though the ONLY people who read these blogs are people who believe enough in their candidate to not be swayed. Just pick your side and spend the rest of your day doing something useful. We're so caught upon getting a candidate that can make America better, but it takes a PEOPLE to make a country worth living in, so vote on the ISSUES and stop expecting any one man or Spawn of Satan be able to wave a magic wand.

PS - Anyone who would vote against or FOR, you Clintonites, a candidate because of race or gender should be stripped of his or her right to vote.

10 days that led to a controversy over race

Ron Jeffers, Arizona Independent — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 18:33:55 GMT

Although I am an Independent, I am very much leaning toward voting for the Democratic candidate in November. I am disgusted with the incompetency of the current administration. But the negative campaigning, question planting, etc. coming from Clinton has really turned me off from her. If she gets the Dem nod, I will either vote for McCain (assuming he is running against her) or will not vote at all. I am hoping beyond hope that Obama is able to defeat her.

10 days that led to a controversy over race

Peter, Clearwater, FL — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 18:33:58 GMT

I would have to agree with Kevin in SF CA. Obama is the only Dem I would consider in the general election. If Edwards or that woman (God forbid) gets the nomination, I'm voting Republican and I don't care who the Republicans pick. If the Dems really want to win in 2008 they need to tell Edwards and that woman to take a hike and don't come back till after the election. (PS. I'm white by the way)

10 days that led to a controversy over race

Sierra, SF — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 18:34:24 GMT

This was CALCULATED STRATEGY by the Clintons
They wanted to increase Obama's negatives
They figured that Hillary's negatives are already high, anyway

But, it was calculated to try and get a reaction from Obama

It DOESN'T seem to have worked !!
In fact, it seems to be losing her support in the African-American community
(will she still talk like 'Aunt Jemima' when speaking to black audiences ?)

Expect more of the dirty tricks from the Clintons
Nothing is too low for them

Curious to see what happens in tonight's debate
Apparently, they're allowing candidates to ask question of each other

Will anyone ask Hillary about her attempted 'voter suppression' of caucuses in casinos ?
She deplored working people not being able to caucus in Iowa
Why the change in Nevada ?

10 days that led to a controversy over race

Andrew, Boston, MA — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 18:35:22 GMT

And thank you to the "Flabbergasted" poster for pointing out the abusive ways the Obama camp has used this whole debacle.

Obama is just another politician! He is not the "change" that he claims to be. I guess he'll only be a very inclusive, non-divisive person, as long as he isn't questioned and as long as it plays into his strategy. When the going gets tough though, he'll act like the very people he speaks against.

10 days that led to a controversy over race

CJ, Charlotte, NC — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 18:36:11 GMT

FINALLY AN ACCURATE ACCOUNT OF WHAT ACTUALLY HAPPENED!

No matter what these bought and paid for Black political surrogates say, the Clintons are not for Black America. I don’t care how many Black talk shows they go on and churches they sit up in, they will never truly understand what its means to be Black in America. I am dismayed as an African-American when I see our so called Black Leaders like Congressman Charlie Rangel engaging in personal attacks on another African American leader. Sad to say but we are truly “crabs in a barrel”

Even after Mr. Obama called for a truce over something he did not start (Donna Brazil and Jim Clyburn called out Hillary regarding her comment on MLK) Congressman Rangel still wants to engage in personal attacks. The only “Dummy” appears to be him because he is an elected official that is incapable of expressing his views without resulting to name-calling. Also, lets not forget Bob Johnson who looked like the biggest Uncle Tom I have ever seen the other day in South Carolina. I hardly find an endorsement from a man that has made his fortune off of televising videos that degrade black women as anything to write home about. I am sure that both will get on the talk show circuit in the following days continuing to clarify their statements. Her surrogates tend to do that a lot these days.

I don’t have a problem with them endorsing their candidate, but I do have a problem with them feeling they have to degrade and disrespect Obama to do so. If anything their comments go against the legacy of MLK and his vision for a unified nation that would judge us not by the color of our skin but by the content of our character. Barak’s character is not in question can you say the same of Hillary Clinton? How can she say that she will bring about real change and be a better leader for America when she can’t even manage her campaign or the surrogates she employs? It smells like the same old Clinton politics to me. I voted for it before, I will not make the same mistake again. Unlike her on the Iraq War, I can admit my mistakes. I will conclude my commentary with the following facts for people to consider.

Fact:
-Mrs. Clinton is not being honest when she states that she has “35 years of experience” She has been an elected official for fewer years than Barack Obama. It baffles me that at every debate she highlights her experience and yet no one calls her on this. How can she say she is more ready to lead than him?

Fact:
-For the past 20 years this county has been ran by either a Bush or a Clinton. Do we as a people want more of the same? Mr. Obama said it perfectly “ If you hire the same people to do the same job year in and year out why would you expect anything to change” Supposedly she has been at this for 35 years. What has she changed?

Fact:
-The Clintons have lied to the American people before. Under oath and on national television when Mr. Clinton said “I did not inhale” to “I did not have sex with that woman”. What makes anyone think that they will tell the truth now? I know people will say well that was her husband not her. The fact of the matter is they are both one in the same. She is campaigning on his record when it benefits her and distancing herself when it does not. You can’t have it both Mrs. Clinton. I question their moral character and truly believe they will say and do anything to get elected.

10 days that led to a controversy over race

Ross Rupley, Kona, Ha. — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 18:36:41 GMT

Speaking of change, let's take changing a light bulb. One guy, Mr. Obama, is a great guy with a cool name, but he ain't never been up that ladder and no one is sure he can reach the bulb. Now, Mr. Edwards, he's a clever attorney, he ain't going up that ladder; he's hoping somebody falls so he can sue whoever made the ladder, oh and Hillary, she already changed the darn thing. Come on home to Hillary.

10 days that led to a controversy over race

m.a. — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 18:38:15 GMT

Mr. Rangle. Were you talking about Obaman's drug use, which he admitted first without being asked. Where were you when Cliton was speaking about Inhale/Exhale only after being quired about doing drug? I don't remember you making any reference to that. I find that to be not just stupid but disgustingly hypocritic. I know what makes you make such outragiously, hypocritic and idiotic statment. You just can't stand the enormous political success of someone of a generation younger than yours. I uesd to respect you. Frankly your statemant makes you look like a looset to me.

10 days that led to a controversy over race

Joe, Boston, MA — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 18:38:30 GMT

Why does this site continue to post bald faced lies by ignorant posters? Several comments in this forum are people saying Obama is a "muslim," which is totally false. Its this type of stuff, done by Clinton supporters, that I find totally despicable.

10 days that led to a controversy over race

Nan Bozarth, Wilmington, NC — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 18:39:18 GMT

MSNBC,

It is you, and the rest of the MSM who are to blame. You haven't learned your lesson from New Hampshire and once again get ahead of the story and then frame it. Further, the obvious exclusion of John Edwards, a legitimate Democratic presidential candidate, from the majority of media coverage is reprehensible. YOU do not decide for us who we elect, WE do.

Sadly, the days of real journalism, with the likes of Cronkite and Murrow, are gone and the American public is being fed that which you decide we get to see and read.

You should be shamefaced, every one of you.

10 days that led to a controversy over race

Johnny D, Anywhere, USA — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 18:43:02 GMT

"Imagine that -- false hopes. Imagine John F. Kennedy looking up at the moon, and saying, 'Darn, that's far,'" Obama said to laughter and applause. " 'We can't do that. Reality check. Can't be done. Imagine -- imagine Dr. King standing on the steps of the Lincoln Memorial, looking out at those crowds -- a quarter million people around the reflecting pool -- and saying, 'Ya'll go home.' The dream has died. It can't be done. It's too hard.' Lost hopes? You know, this is what this campaign is all about." - Barak Obama

Clearly, Obama was comparing himself, and his campaign of hope to the works of JFK and MLK.

In all of Obama's career, his actions have not come within an inch of his rhetoric. He is not qualified to wash or wear JFK's and MLK's jockstraps. Yet he comapares their legacy to himself.

The Clintons have proven track records of supporting minority, women's and middle class issues. Their footsteps have closely matched those of MLK and JFK.

Obama has not outgrown his baby shoes of public service. He has a long way to go to mach the footsteps of MLK and JFK and the Clintons.

Obama talks the talk, but where has he walked the walk?

And, lets face it, a Democratic ticket with Obama for President would be trounced by the Republicans in November. Like it or not, at this point in history, this country is not going to elect a black president.

The best chance of wresting the Presidency from the incompetence of the past 8 years is with Clinton or Edwards on the top of the ballot in Nov '08.

I'd like to see Obama walk the walk, and come back in another 8 years with some substance to match his words.

BTW, Blomberg is waiting to see who the Dem's will nominate before he announces. If it's Barak, bet on a Blomberg third party run. If it's Hillary, Blomberg sits out because he knows the votes are not there.

Blomberg is a pragmatist, like me. And, as you should be if you want to get the country righted.

Personally, I will not suffer with 8 more years of Republican rule. I’ll continue to get great tax breaks, and I don’t have to worry about the debt going to my children because I did not have any.

But, many people will continue to suffer, in this country and the world, with lack of opportunity, health care, unnecessary war. And the debt will go to my nieces and nephews and the children of friends and those I don’t even know.
So, even though the outcome does not affect me, I know the stakes, and I know we need to elect the person who can do the most to make these changes. And it can’t be done if that person does not make it to the White House.

A track record, experience and elect-ability. Empty words won’t get the job done.

10 days that led to a controversy over race

Lynn E. Jones, Woodstock, Illinois — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 18:43:50 GMT

H Clinton has repeatedly said she learned how to fight the Republicans because she and Bill were the target of their Swift Boating style of politics and Obama is not ready. She said she had gone into the hell of campaigning and knows how to handle it.

I think H. Clinton didn't learn how to handle it, she learned how to love it. She wants to be president and NO PRICE IS TOO HIGH.

Isn't this part of the change we are all looking for? I would rather be part of the Obama's dream for my country then some misdirected idea of a victory for women. A dirty victory is no victory.

I must add that I am a 63 year old woman who marched for women's rights and cried when I saw blacks being beat as they marched. I support women always and still do but I do not support politics as ususal no matter who is playing that game.

What 35 years of experience??

10 days that led to a controversy over race

Willy, Litchfield Park, AZ — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 18:44:20 GMT

Nice recap. Interesting that the only party to act 'presidential' was the one person with the least exposure to the Presidency.

10 days that led to a controversy over race

Paula, Charlotte, NC — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 18:44:25 GMT

10 days that led to a controversy over race

J. in Rydal, Pa — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 18:44:57 GMT

Why is no one talking about this Clinton lawsuit issue in Nevada that has real racial disenfranchisement undertones, rather than these linguistic interpretations of what the Clintons said. It appears that Clinton agreed last year to allow for more caucus sites to make it easier for potential working caucus-goers to attend because many did not know how because the Nevada caucuses were once sparsely attended due to their lack of relevance. Then, last week, Obama gets the endorsement of the Culinary Workers, a largely minority group that has a lot of workers on the Las Vegas Strip on the day of the caucuses, and now Clinton files a lawsuit seeking to shut down these caucus sites she had originally agreed to, effectively making it much more difficult for these working minorities to caucus (potentially for Obama.) If we truly live in a democracy, shouldn't we give everyone the easiest opportunity possible to vote, even those who have to work longer and harder on Election Day. I thought we were the Democrats that stood for the right of EVERYONE's vote to be counted, and the Republicans were the ones who try to limit the number of votes counted to the number that ensures that they get the majority.

10 days that led to a controversy over race

Doreen Augusta Maine — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 18:46:08 GMT

Personally, I think this was a very calculated move on the part of the Clinton campaign. She figures she is losing the black vote so she is going after the hispanic vote big time. Considering the problems between the two nationalities, she figures she needed to point out Obama's blackness. I don't trust the Clintons. They know how to run a dirty campaign, and they will do anything and everything to win. Too bad for the American political process.

10 days that led to a controversy over race

Holly Stallworth, Silver Spring, MD — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 18:50:40 GMT

This whole thing is media-fueled hype. Hillary was misinterpreted, Bill Clinton was quoted out of context. One person takes offense (Clyburn)and suddenly the media starts these wild fires burning and we have a story about "race" in the campaign. Has anybody noticed the stock market is tanking?

10 days that led to a controversy over race

GINA, GARY, IN — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 18:53:07 GMT

JUST STOP THIS MADNESS AND GET BACK TO THE ISSUES! I AM SO DISAPPOINTED WITH THE TURN OF EVENTS THAT HAVE HAPPENED OVER THE LAST FEW DAYS AND I AM EQUALLY DISAPPOINTED WITH THE CLINTONS.

10 days that led to a controversy over race

jr, ny — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 18:54:27 GMT

if people don't want race to enter this campaign, i am curious about the racial devide of the comments.We will never know, but, more importantly on the issue of cocaine use as a youth, i think it is VERY important to know. WHo wants their child to think they can use cocaine and end up president? not me !!

10 days that led to a controversy over race

kenn — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 18:54:28 GMT

I hate LBJ and what he did with the war in Vietnam but to think without a southern president who was the speaker of the house The Civil Rights Act would have been passed you just refuse to learn history.The end of Slavery without ole Abe as president,do you think Goldwater or Nixon were going to fight Wallace and Storm Thurmond or general MaClellen would have ended slavery he wanted a negotiated peace with the south.come on you history Buffs white and black men and women PEOPLE are what change goverments not institutions,Fredrick Douglas and Martin Luther King,Ralph Abernathy and Jesse and so many unamed heros stop making everything into a cult of personality everyone is human.Want to thank someone for rights thank the people who wrote the MAGNA CARTA that granted that my rights come from something higher than the king.Good Luck I think the republicans just bambosseled the dems once again enjoy 4 $ MORE YEARS with rudy or Maclame

10 days that led to a controversy over race

sam, nj — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 18:54:56 GMT

I think the Clintons figured out that if the press comes after them, they can win with sympathy votes. That is what they are doing now, making the press coming after them.

10 days that led to a controversy over race

Gloria, Orangeburg, SC — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 20:13:32 GMT

Funny. The "Race Card" was not played by Obama in Iowa, but now he plays it for South Carolina. Most southerns I know are smarter than he thinks. I will now vote for Hillary.

10 days that led to a controversy over race

MK,MO — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 20:14:27 GMT

it's astounding how many people think they know what martin luther king would think about this tussle between obama and hillary, it's even more astounding how people bicker back and forth trying to claim king of the hill on the political correctness mountain, how many posts on here address anything at all to do with the individual candidates stance on the issues, plans to implement changes, solve problems? none

nominating hillary or obama will be an utter disaster for the democratic party, neither one can win the general election, both cater to the wealthy, both through their polarizing, childish campaign strategies have divided the party to the point of failure, and neither in anyway can be considered a uniter, edwards whether anyone wants to admit it or not has become the only candidate the dems have that can win the general election, end of stor

10 days that led to a controversy over race

Jimmy Chicago IL. — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 20:14:41 GMT

So, let's see, Obama is okay when he calls HRC "disingenuous" because of the way that she portrays her vote about Iraq, but when the Clinton's call Obama's "superior judgment" a "fairy tale"---oh, that's offensive, and racist! As Clinton said, "Give me a break!" Obama is deflecting attention for the fact that when controversial, he does not vote (130 de-facto abstentions in Illinois), and when called to work, he trumpets a bill (ethics bill for lobbyists) that, in fact, allows lobbyists to buy drinks, lobster, and anything else that your heart desires as long as you are not seated at a table. I could go for Obama if he did not attempt to pass as a "non-politician" blessed with superior judgment and purity. But his self-righteousness, which is not matched by his record, revolts me. It would revolt me in any candidate. I know---if you are an Obama supporter and got to this point, you'll say that I am racist. It only proves your inability to read a different map of reality.
Elena Fraboschi, Bloomington, Indiana (Sent Tuesday, January 15, 2008 12:44 PM)
****************************************************
"So, let's see, Obama is okay when he calls HRC 'disingenuous'"-Yep, why? Because she was being disingenuous.

"but when the Clinton's call Obama's "superior judgment" a "fairy tale"---oh, that's offensive, and racist!"-Barack never said this, neither did his campaign. An elected congressman took offense to this as well as one of Bill's former campaignworkers.

"Obama is deflecting attention for the fact that when controversial, he does not vote (130 de-facto abstentions in Illinois)"- Already covered, most votes were either un-important votes like naming hospitals and roads, or were coordinated with the bill's sponsors as a means of protest.

"and when called to work, he trumpets a bill (ethics bill for lobbyists) that, in fact, allows lobbyists to buy drinks, lobster, and anything else that your heart desires as long as you are not seated at a table."- And Hill has proposed what when it comes to ethics? How about the fact that his bill promotes the most transparency of all bills put forth. Oh yeah, what did Hillary propose?......that's right nothing.

"I know---if you are an Obama supporter and got to this point, you'll say that I am racist."-Nope, I say you are an idiot.

"It only proves your inability to read a different map of reality."-Huh? This staetment proves my last statement. Yep you are an idiot. This makes no sense. Adifferent map of reality? just what does this mean?

10 days that led to a controversy over race

David Kelsey, Los Angeles, Calif. — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 20:20:21 GMT

What incredibly biased reporting.

No mention of Obama's South Carolina campaign chair, Jesse Jackson, Jr. on the night of the New Hampshire primary saying Mrs. Clinton's tears needed to be looked at in the context of the tears she "didn't cry for the victims of Hurricane Katrina." You can see video of that here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EEQV4K1eFjI

What about the memo Obama's campaign compiled citing instances of supposed racial insensitivity from the Clinton campaign, which got mysteriously "leaked" to the press and can be read here: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2008/01/12/obama-camps-memo-on-clin_n_81205.html

I know MSNBC won't publish this since they'd rather mislead readers into believing this is all the Clintons fault when the Obama campaign was clearly playing the race card! And this is coming from a black guy. You can see me here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lXsTXURIvlw

10 days that led to a controversy over race

Brandon, Philadelphia — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 20:22:19 GMT

Hillary Clinton has 35 years of experience, but can anyone name one good thing she has done in those 35 years. She has 35 years of experience yet she still voted to go to war in Iraq. Just because you have experience doesn't make you smarter or better.35 years of experience just means you are used to doing it your way. Change is not in the Clinton vocab. George Bush has experience, would you vote for him again?

10 days that led to a controversy over race

CE, Wisconsin — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 20:25:07 GMT

I was doing a little math that led to an intersting conclusion. The Clinton's like to mention what Obama was doing in his teen years but, Hillary was born in `47 which made her 17 in 1964. This would have been after King's March on Washington which occured a year earlier, yet she was a "Goldwater Girl" at the time so her beliefs were in opposition to both King and LBJ at that time.

10 days that led to a controversy over race

Rob, Iowa — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 20:26:39 GMT

"I'm glad I'm a Republican."

The Republican Party was formed by Horace Greeley in 1854 to oppose the Kansas-Nebraska Act of 1854 which would have exptended slavery into the West. The Republican Party was formed to oppose the extension of slavery into the West. Do I need to repeat that ...?

And, yes, Abraham Lincoln was a Republican.

Thank You! Goodnight! I'l be here for 2 more nights! Be sure to tip your waitresses well!

10 days that led to a controversy over race

Stape, Oklahoma City, OK — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 20:27:22 GMT

jr,ny;
How do you feel about the current president? He was a drughead until just a few years before he became president and according to many, is still a drunk. Do you think he's a great leader, or do you think that is one reason why so many things are so jacked up?

10 days that led to a controversy over race

T from Denver — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 20:29:05 GMT

Obama taking the first step to call a truce shows how stupid he and Mr. Edwards look ganging up on Ms. Clinton. Read the facts first. Another thing that turns me off about Obama is when nightline aired an episode a few months back about Mr. O's friend from Hawaii that he talked about on his campaign, but when the friend was down and out and homeless living in a car he refused his call. Also, in New Hampshire when Hilary was passing coffee early in the morning to supporters... But Mr. O after purchasing donuts turned around just to shake two young kids hands, but couldn't give them a free donut or to his supporters cheering. Instead he walks to his family to pass them out.

10 days that led to a controversy over race

Rich — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 20:30:23 GMT

What this means is simple: Hillary is loosing black support in droves. Like it or not, misunderstood or not, she and Bill has pissed off a lot of blacks who would have otherwise voted for her.

10 days that led to a controversy over race

David Jaspers, Aiken, SC — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 20:33:29 GMT

Four simple words: "Vote for John Edwards"

10 days that led to a controversy over race

Juan, Baltimore, MD — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 20:34:00 GMT

No wonder the Democratic party is in shambles, you have a candidate that won't even wear the flag of the country he wants to lead as president. Then you have a woman who with her husband have disrespected the military that defends this wonderful country on more than one occasion. Please just give me one honest politican and to hell with the rest but I know neither one of these two will be the next president.

10 days that led to a controversy over race

Carol, Stuart FL — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 20:34:15 GMT

Thank you for your comment Ari Washington, DC,
A thoughtful beautifully written comment.

10 days that led to a controversy over race

Dave, Portland, Oregon — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 20:34:17 GMT

Im my humble opinion both Obama and Hillary are acting childish. The only serious candidate left on the Democratic side in my opinion is Edwards who seems to be the one leading the other two. Sadly he is overshadowed by the two "new first" candidates and so doesn't have a shot of winning. Regardless of who gets elected, GOP or Dem, in four years this whole process starts all over again.

10 days that led to a controversy over race

laurie, st. paul — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 20:36:38 GMT

Feels like this round of interjecting race into the campaign has past, without lasting damage. Some in MSM have even shown ability to sift through the spin, this first summary does a fair job of it, and helps bring closure to this episode. While racial issues are sure to come up again, they seem to be getting old already and lack the ability to really tear things apart (at least this time.)

10 days that led to a controversy over race

Nancy Wells — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 20:37:09 GMT

Hey news media, quit talking about "race" in this election. It is NOT an issue that divides the Democrats. It is a made up issue that helps fill the air time and newspapers. Lets talk about health care, ecology, and the economy. Come on. Quit making things up!

10 days that led to a controversy over race

Mike, Eugene, OR — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 20:37:16 GMT

I'm not white. I have spent the past several days listening to black radio and your silly white liberals have no idea of the problem the Cltinon's created. As a start, go read the Eugene Robinson piece in the Post just to get an idea. We think anyone even attempting to defend the Clinton's are racists. No, we're sure of it! What we are amazed at is the idiots of the Democratic leadership sitting aside and not calling the Clinton's on the carpet for this series of outrages. Right now, you Clinton partisan's can fotget her in the Houe House. That lame Sothern racist has already lost the majority of the black vote. We'll stay home or vote for anyone else, but not Clinton. Instead, you ought to start worrying about your "democratic majority". You don't know it yet, but people are flat out furious and we wont be voting for some white honky that thinks they can broker an illusionary "peace" between Obama and the fat cats that run this plantation.

If you end up reading this, be very surprised that it made it past the pro-Clinton racist feminsts that moderate this forum.

10 days that led to a controversy over race

Marie, Massachusetts — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 20:41:36 GMT

Could each candidate address the original issue? Is it better to vote for a candidate with an optimistic, inspiring message about great change or a candidate who has faced opposition from the right and monied interests and offers a pragmatic message about good change?

10 days that led to a controversy over race

Eric, Staten Island, NY — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 20:41:48 GMT

No matter how the media and Obama supporters want to spin it Charlie Rangel did NOT call Obama stupid or dumb. He said that the Obama remarks were stupid or dumb when Obama and his supporters tried to make a big deal over what Hillary said about MLK and LBJ. I would also say that there are plenty of Hillary people who has said stupid or dumb things but I am not saying these people are stupid or dumb. Let's try to focus on what was actually said and not how some might interpret or twist the words.

10 days that led to a controversy over race

WE LOVE BO — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 20:41:50 GMT

grow up. clinton is not racist, bo's not sexist, ya da ya da. talk about real issues. remember when mattews asked brokaw what are we supposed to do if we can't talk about polls and the horse race. i liked brokaw's answer. discuss issues. you know i feel like I am living in a surreal world when we have politicians reminding us we are a nation at war . Usually a nation that has to be reminded that we are at war is not a nation at war. It is that nation's military and only that nation's military that is at war. How about talking about what is happening in iraq instead of this drivel. The fact is the vast majority of this race nonsense is created by the media, specifically cable networks and internet blogs who for whatever reason don't want to do real, hardcore in depth reporting into issues like the economy, iraq, afghanistan,pakistan,iran,globalization,the fed,the debt,healthcare,infrastructure,energy,education, government ethics, government oversight, abuse of government power,government contracts, lobbying,intelligence(CIA,FBI,DIA,etc) and national security, as well as science and a national institute of engineering to go along with the NIH (National institutes of health),also civil liberties and a safety net similar to fdr's new deal to deal with a more globalized world. I'm sure I missed some issues so I apologize. The point is these are the types of issues that you should be reporting on regardless of politics but even more so when reporting on the political races. It is these questions that should be asked at the debates not wasting time asking hillary and bo about race tonight at the debate. And that is what you can do while waiting for voter results as opposed to reporting and analyzing polls to death. You should report the polls but the issues i've brought up should be reported on far more than polls not vice versa, which i sadly believe is the case up to this point. This is a special election and I am psyched and I love msnbc's enthusiasm for politics. That's why I'm watching it more than cnn or foxnews. I just hope we can have more reporting on the issues as I have talked about above. ON THAT NOTE: WE LOVE YOU BO - KEEP FIGHTING AND WIN NEVADA,SC, AND HOPEFULLY GO ON TO THE NOMINATION. IT'S TOUGH FIGHTING A DYNASTY BUT I SUPPORT YOU. KEEEEEEPPP FIGHTING AND SPREADING LOVE, HOPE,change, and greatness, NOT CYNICISM AND TRIANGULATION.

10 days that led to a controversy over race

Mark, NC — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 20:44:12 GMT

Can someone please tell me what Senator Clinton has done other than being around other powerful people? I dare anyone to list all of the bill she has authored or ammended and compare them to other candidates. Please don't list healthcare for children (SCHIP), that was in 1997 by Senators Kennedy and Hatch. No clinton on the bill.

10 days that led to a controversy over race

Stape, Oklahoma City, OK — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 20:45:00 GMT

If the Clinton campaign DID pull a racist stunt, SO WHAT?? It's well within the boundaries of good ol' American politics, which has fewer restrictions than sandlot football.

10 days that led to a controversy over race

Vickie, New Jersey — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 20:48:01 GMT

Polls, press & next the Premature Election Night projections - enough already - you are destroying the process for all Americans who can make their choice without all of the above taking us over the coals - time to realize that these politicians are not trying to screw up anything, most of them are good people asking to be elected to a job that they want to do & we can tell the difference without the polls, press & projections - we are at the rallies, watching the debates, Sunday morning interviews & everything else we can - we don't need your constant slants on every single thing - just report on the events, don't try to stir the pot constantly with your opinions - we the voters can do this themselves. Enough - let us decide on our own.

10 days that led to a controversy over race

floyd — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 20:51:24 GMT

plain and simple, no real republican will vote for hillary, the clintons are their worst enemy. No real man will vote for her, this is a women's movement. internationally the world has still not evolved into a place where women have equal standing. China, India, Most of the Middle eastern countries, and including large sections in africa will consider her a joke. moreover, the clintons are a known brand around the world, I have lived in Kuwait, they will be seen as nothing more than an extension of an american. plain and simple a vote for Hillary is a vote for the Republican party. so if that is your choice just vote for romney

10 days that led to a controversy over race

John — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 20:54:54 GMT

This is unbelievable! I am African American, and I am ashamed and embarrassed by this. Not Obama. But mindless idiots like Bob Johnson, Andrew Young, Al Sharpton and Charlie Rangel. White America; let me let you in on a couple of quiet little black secrets that need to be put out in the open because of this. Many of my white brothers are confused about this and they deserve to know the truth.

Truth #1 is this fight is actually about us Blacks. The Clintons just bungled their way into it. More later. Truth #2 is Obama represents "US", our collective futures just as you have already surmised. Truth #3 is that to Rangel and his crowd, this is about "them". Them being; The ghetto (their market), the KLAN; the Vast right wing conspiracy; the MAN; the bigots. Their whole existence revolves around a fixation on those bogeymen with no solutions to address any of "THEM".

People like "Them", along with opportunists like the Clintons and the Bushs, represent our sordid past, which we desperately need to free ourselves from. Rangel and those like him are exactly what need to go away for the country to move on. That is why all of "THEM" feel so threatened by Obama.

If Obama is elected there will absolutely be no need for: 1) a congressional black caucus within our government; 2) a NAACP; 3) Affirmative Action on the scale it exists today.

Instead there will be a call to arms to "Man Up" and do the hard tedious work of repairing an African American and United States culture/system that is broken and rotten from within. Charlie is most definitely part of the rot, as evidenced by his crude comments about Obama. Old Bob Johnson himself had a lot to do with breaking our culture, by exporting and mainstreaming Gangsta, Inmate, Pimp, Whore and Drug culture to our youth and nation through his BET network. He should be offended and insulted with himself! I for one despise all he stands for. Bill Clinton himself is the high Priest of that "anything goes" lifestyle and culture that our Nation needs to break with. He is "disgraced dreamer" who barely avoided prison and is trying to relive his life through his wife at the expense of the African American electorate and the nation. People like Johnson and Rangel are simply his black gatekeepers.

Here is another little secret no one likes to talk about. The Clintons unwittingly blundered into the middle of a very private, Black Civil War, that has been simmering just beneath the surface for decades. They mistakenly caused it to explosively erupt into open, public confrontation. On one side, you have a progressive middle class African American culture, that is seething and appalled with the horrors of negative, terroristic inner city "Ghetto" culture. I consider myself as one of the progressives and we are appalled and resent that much of this horror show was created and exploited by folks just like Bob Johnson. Rangel exploits it himself to a much lesser degree. Bill Cosby has articulated the angst of this progressive side very well in the past. Oprah Winfrey is also a firm disiciple of the progressive cultural side. Progressives want African Americans to fully assimilate into American life and move on ASAP; as many of us are actually doing. But we feel very threatened for our children and grandchildren by this wild, animalistic, heathen subculture that has emerged and matasticised in our mist over the past 20-40 years. We want it suppressed and removed, at any cost.

I believe progressives (economically and sentimentally) represent from 40-60% of the black electorate. They have patiently waited for the Democratic party and people like Rangel and Sharpton to truthfully address all of the issues instead of constantly making excuses and blaming white people about its cause. Our turth is; look into the mirror. The cause is people like Bob Johnson! Our side was totally inspired when it saw white voters in Iowa and New Hampshire (97% white states) stand up behind a substantive, young black hopeful like Barack Obama. Even white Republicans are impressed by him. The Clintons felt enormously threatened by this phenom and called out their black attack dogs like Rangel and Johnson to help them out. Since they had bought into the myth, that they were the first Black Presidential family, the Clintons had no idea they were igniting an intra-cultural firestorm. This firestorm is what threatens to sink the Democratic party itself this fall, if it is not put out. The media is totally wrong in its analysis of this conflict. It is not about Blacks versus Women. It's not even about Blacks versus Whites! Far from it! African Americans have no problems with a woman or white President. This is totally about Barack Obama versus remnants of the old civil rights guard and very destructive forces within its community. We do not want to see this prodigy (Obama) for the nation's future destroyed by the "Old Crabs in the Barrel". Much of the black middle class is fed up with status quo and will move on to other alternatives if progressive people like Obama or Edwards and even Mike Huckabee are bypassed by party hacks for old divisive forces like Clinton, Rangel et al.

John Edwards has already brilliantly summarized the other side. They are clarions of the status quo. Status quo is about division, despair, lies, deception, misdirection, cheating, stealing, immmorality and vicious suppression of dissent. We don't have to look very far to recognize their champions and accolytes in the Democrat or Republican party.

That is why you see many of these old time Democratic charlatans and sychophants like Charlie Rangel attacking and crucifying Barack Obama. And you see the Republican accolytes attacking Mike Huckabee. For the sake of this discussion, I have only focused on Obama.

The force and nature of the attacks against him, should tell everyone, that Obama represents truth, hope and an unknown, but bright future together as one nation. His attackers represent lies, despair and a divided nation. So please America; stay on your wonderful, inspirational journey with us and that magnificent young man (Obama). And while you're at it. You are free to toss flotsam and jetsam like Rangel, Johnson et al in the trash heap. After all, that is where they seem to be most comfortable hanging out. We progressive African Americans want to move on, with you, into a glorious future we will dominate together. We will not be offended when you help us dump our trash along the way.

10 days that led to a controversy over race

HP Boston — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 20:57:03 GMT

Okay so we beat gender bias to death. We have called a truce on the race card, we have many, many issues still on the table. Let's go over the useless war, that is the war on drugs, seems we spend billions on the war on drugs. We have lost the war, no one seems to care about the war on drugs or care that people who used drugs wish to become president. We have a user and alcohol abuser screwing up the country now. So do we still have "A WAR ON DRUGS" or is the white flag up? I do not want a person who did serious drug use for president. Is the war on drugs a joke or is Obama? If Hillary did drugs she would be pilloried! If Hillary spent only 2 years in the senate she'd be laughed out of this campaign, if Obama
had been first lady he would be golden! So what did he do that gives him anymore or any less experience? We know Hillary did not do drugs in the hippie flower power age so she said no why didn't Barak?

10 days that led to a controversy over race

jh, nyc — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 20:58:01 GMT

I think Dr. King would weep with joy, were he alive today, to see the two leading contenders for the Democratic nomination a black man and a woman -- and both of them fighters for racial equality.

I also think he would shake his head in dismay hearing his name used to attack both Hillary Clinton AND Lyndon Johnson. Johnson's commitment to the civil rights struggle (according to John Lewis, who witnessed it) actually DID bring tears to MLK's eyes. Happy birthday, Dr. King.