Obama: 'It's politics' not race

Howard B, New York — Tue, 15 Apr 2008 18:44:53 GMT

Hard to imagine the reverse situation, where Hillary has an opportunity to put a ridiculous notion to bed and seizes it. Instead, she'd play it to the hilt.

Obama: 'It's politics' not race

Ruth, Portland OR — Tue, 15 Apr 2008 18:47:47 GMT

Amen, Senator Obama! Enough of the silly season. It's time to rally around our nominee and fight John McCain!

Obama: 'It's politics' not race

Mark, Bristol PA — Tue, 15 Apr 2008 18:48:58 GMT

As a Hillary supporter I must say I am getting a little tired of this story line. Hillary is the candidate for PA -- her story is their story -- so let's move back to the issues, where we can wallop Obama.

Obama: 'It's politics' not race

UM Wolverine, MI — Tue, 15 Apr 2008 18:50:34 GMT

It's clear that almost everybody sees through Clinton's baseless attacks.

Obama: 'It's politics' not race

Houston — Tue, 15 Apr 2008 18:52:12 GMT

ya but Obamb's supporters will play it as racists - they always do --Obama is uppity

If not Hillary then I am for McCain

Obama: 'It's politics' not race

Sandra, Murfreesboro, TN — Tue, 15 Apr 2008 18:52:43 GMT

Obama is such a classy guy! Hope to have the opportunity to pull the lever for him in November 2008!

Obama: 'It's politics' not race

Carol, Long Valley NJ — Tue, 15 Apr 2008 18:52:56 GMT

“Hopefully it [the silly season] will come to an end fairly soon,” he said, “and we’ll start focusing on the issues that the people of Pennsylvania and the American people really care about.”

Senator, from you mouth to God's ear. I'm getting really tired of all the politics of division.

And I agree with the 'older gentleman', I want a well educated person as our next president, one who actually spent time learning while they were in school, and not just being a frat boy cheer leader.

Vote with your head, vote for the economy, vote for jobs.

Vote Democratic 2008 -- don't let the corporations and their Republican stooges win again.

Obama: 'It's politics' not race

JohnnyU, WA State — Tue, 15 Apr 2008 18:54:19 GMT

I watched the event live. I so like the tone Obama strikes. What a breath of fresh air in politics.
Obama '08 Yes We Can!!

Obama: 'It's politics' not race

OWL,Grangeville, Idaho. — Tue, 15 Apr 2008 18:54:27 GMT

Unless we walk in anothers shoes, none have any excuse for calling another "Elitist"
Owl

Obama: 'It's politics' not race

Jenn Austin — Tue, 15 Apr 2008 18:54:45 GMT

He is a class act, across the board.

As Jon Stewart said last night, shouldn't we have a president who is smarter and better than we are.

Obama: 'It's politics' not race

voter — Tue, 15 Apr 2008 18:54:49 GMT

Good response Obama. She is condescending voters into believing she is an average Jane. In reality, she was born to privelage and is worth $110 million. Meanwhile, you were raised in a single family household with the assitance of your grandparents, just finished paying back your student loans and worht almost $1 million. She wants the voters to believe she is not an elitist. Please. Her comments are nonsensical.

Obama: 'It's politics' not race

Hussein — Tue, 15 Apr 2008 18:54:51 GMT

i don't think it makes much sense to try and figure out what is going on with HRC. Hillary Clinton is comical at this point; cartoonish even. I am sure every one can see her lines coming a mile away. It's old.

Obama: 'It's politics' not race

mg in Nashville — Tue, 15 Apr 2008 18:55:08 GMT

I agree with the guy in the audience. This whole suggestion that he is elitist and put his chin in the air when he speaks just screams "uppity". Barack will never say it because he has to much class and won't allow Hillary to drag him into accusations about race knowing that Clintonfans will then cry that she is being attacked.

Obama: 'It's politics' not race

John Doe, Seattle, Wash. — Tue, 15 Apr 2008 18:56:14 GMT

This is not the first time criticism of Obama has been labeled "racist". It's going to be fun trying to criticize him as president.

Obama: 'It's politics' not race

Sally Mae Quinn — Tue, 15 Apr 2008 18:56:56 GMT

Rule #45 - Never refer to Obama's race, his racist pastor, his terrorist associations, or his criminal associations. In general, if you don't have anything good to say about Barack, don't say anything at all.

Obama: 'It's politics' not race

Jonathan Houston, TX — Tue, 15 Apr 2008 18:56:56 GMT

Obama, you are proving the demeanor and mind of a true leader. I first was drawn to Obama because to see a man of color as President of the USA would be a dream come true. But i beleive Clinton was reight about one thing, that the contest must continue to make sure that the candidates are tested. You sir have passed all of the test and the longer the priamries continue you wil continue to show the country who is ready on day 1. I can not think of any other person who we as citizens of this great nation wants to receive that 3 AM phone call. We do not want a candidate that confusses Iran and Iraq and definetly not a person looking for a fight...

Obama '08 and '12 I look forward to visiting your Presidential Liabrary.

Obama: 'It's politics' not race

Keith (Wayne, NJ) — Tue, 15 Apr 2008 18:57:02 GMT

Hillary-backer Bob Johnson apparently doesnt agree... he's come back out in the forefront to support Geraldine Ferrarro's comments. He said that people dismissed what she said because it came from a white woman, but he hopes that because it's now coming from a black man, it'll be seen for its truth.

I cant wait until we can get back to the issues, rather than debate this nonsense. We need to come together as a country, and rise above it all.

Obama: 'It's politics' not race

Pat huntington NY — Tue, 15 Apr 2008 18:57:18 GMT

When Obama attacks Hillary, it's ok, but when she attacks Obama, then its wrong. Obamabots, explain this to me?

Obama: 'It's politics' not race

Noel, Hot Springs, AR — Tue, 15 Apr 2008 18:57:39 GMT

Hmmm, how would hillary have answered a similair comment replacing sex sexism with racism. I think it would go something like this, as far as I know it isn't sexist, you would have to ask the Obama campaign if they mean anything sexist, I have to take them at their word. Make sure to leave a little doubt there.

Obama: 'It's politics' not race

Harold (PhD Candidate), Southern Miss — Tue, 15 Apr 2008 18:57:39 GMT

Right on Senator!!! You know this guy is not perfect, but he rises above the fray. If he is elected, he will be looked at by the world with strength, class, and confidence. My heart will beat a little stronger with pride. This is the leader who reprsents my country, compared to ol George W!

Obama: 'It's politics' not race

KR, MO — Tue, 15 Apr 2008 18:57:40 GMT

What a man of honor! Thank you Senator Obama for not stooping to the level of "the politics of old". Keep up the message of hope for all of us who are struggling to keep afloat.

Obama: 'It's politics' not race

Politics, USA — Tue, 15 Apr 2008 18:57:42 GMT

Rumor is that John McCain is holding out to announce his VP so that Hillary could be asked.

McCain/Clinton 08

Obama: 'It's politics' not race

AverageJoe4Obama, Bethesda, MD — Tue, 15 Apr 2008 18:58:03 GMT

It's not racism, its vindictive desperation from someone who is incapable of seeing the forest for the trees.

Pennsylvania, please do the rest of the country a favor, and shut Senator Clinton up.

Vote Obama next week!!!!

Obama: 'It's politics' not race

Bee — Tue, 15 Apr 2008 18:58:32 GMT

I heard a veteran gave Obama a flag pin today. Is it true that Obama is wearing the flag pin?

I am sure the patriotic police will be out in full force to condemn him

Obama: 'It's politics' not race

C. Armsrong — Tue, 15 Apr 2008 18:59:42 GMT

Clinton is treading on dangerous ground!

Obama: 'It's politics' not race

Waiting for Obama, NC — Tue, 15 Apr 2008 19:01:08 GMT

Leave it to him to take the high road, yet again. He is always telling us the truth about ourselves; some of which is hard to take, but we need to hear it nevertheless. Until we can admit that there ARE problems, how can we solve them? This is the fundamental difference between him and Clinton....he tells us the truth, even when it hurts and she panders to us without any conscience as to the consequences.

Obama: 'It's politics' not race

franki cheverly, MD — Tue, 15 Apr 2008 19:01:30 GMT

I just Love this man! He's our next President no doubt!

Obama: 'It's politics' not race

Lia — Tue, 15 Apr 2008 19:02:22 GMT

I agree with the gentleman at the town hall. I certainly heard "uppity" when Hillary and McCain were saying "elitist." It's ridiculous that Obama, who grew up poor and pulled himself up by his bootstraps to make a life could be "elite." His statements above are proof of his decency and that he is way more charitable than I am.

Obama: 'It's politics' not race

CIH8U2, Tacoma, WA — Tue, 15 Apr 2008 19:03:02 GMT

Excellent response. Now this shows the class Obama has that Hillary lacks. He could have gone negative with it.

Obama: 'It's politics' not race

C. Armsrong — Tue, 15 Apr 2008 19:03:35 GMT

Clinton is treading on dangerous ground!

Obama: 'It's politics' not race

Nathan in IL — Tue, 15 Apr 2008 19:03:41 GMT

That is a great contrast to the "Clinton Life", which in itself could be a reality show...

I laugh when I think about him out there scraping the windows. To think they call him elite when their combined income for their lifetime is probably (don't know exact numbers) less than the 15 MILLION Clinton's averaged yearly over the last 7. I can only hope this will end soon.

Obama: 'It's politics' not race

Paul, Washington DC — Tue, 15 Apr 2008 19:03:47 GMT

I am glad and understand why Obama claimed Clinton's attacks were political and not filled with racial undertones. But let's face the truth, she really was insinuating to voters, especially working class white voters, that Obama was behaving as an uppity Black man.

Obama knows that in his heart which is probably one of the reasons he struck back so hard against Hill - I really think this attack by her pissed him off.

Obama: 'It's politics' not race

Shel, SLC UT — Tue, 15 Apr 2008 19:05:33 GMT

Note how easily he could have agreed and cried a "RACE" but didn't.

Classy, not elitist.

Obama: 'It's politics' not race

Lia — Tue, 15 Apr 2008 19:05:42 GMT

I agree with the gentleman at the town hall. I certainly heard "uppity" when Hillary and McCain were saying "elitist." It is ridiculous that Obama, who grew up poor and pulled himself by his bootstraps could be considered an "elite." His statement above is proof of his decency and that he is way more charitable than I am.

Obama: 'It's politics' not race

CP — Tue, 15 Apr 2008 19:05:50 GMT

Clinton thought it was perfectly okay to say that the "Average American goes around looking for someone to blame" when things are going from bad to worse. While Obama said people tend to cling to the issues they know (guns and religion; which is mainly voting for/against abortion issues), Clinton says Average Americans look to blame other people.

"There are signs of festering intolerance even among Democratic audiences, noticeably in Iowa, which has seen a surge of Latino immigration in recent years. The Democratic candidates are uniformly in favor of comprehensive immigration reform, including a path to citizenship for those who have entered the country illegally. But they receive sharp — pointed — applause when they say illegals should "have to speak English" before becoming citizens. When I asked Hillary Clinton about that, she said she'd noticed it too and added, "During the 1990s, I cannot remember being asked about immigration... Why? Because the economy was working... And average Americans didn't have to go around looking for someone to blame."

http://www.time.com/time/nation/article/0,8599,1688794,00.html

Obama: 'It's politics' not race

Pat Huntington NY — Tue, 15 Apr 2008 19:06:02 GMT

Here's the explanation - its wrong to attack Obama if you are Hillary...but its ok to attack Hillary if you are Obama because Obama is....

Obama: 'It's politics' not race

Brian M De. — Tue, 15 Apr 2008 19:07:15 GMT

Another sign of class that this man has. He could have used the comments of this man to stomp on Hillary but instead he took the High road way to go Obama.We smell the stench of the dirty politics that you are trying to be baited into. Keep it up and you will show the Clintons what class and integrity are and that no matter how much money you make it doesn't make you a better person like the Clintons seem to believe.

Obama: 'It's politics' not race

J.N.K., midwest — Tue, 15 Apr 2008 19:08:00 GMT

Well, there is an important part of the population -- not necessarily the "elite" -- that thinks Obama was exactly right in what he said the other day. Hillary Clinton got in trouble for making stuff up to make herself look like she's ready for the white house. But Barack Obama's insight (even if the wording offended some people) is nothing to be ashamed of. It's true!

My extended family is from, and still lives in Western PA. And a lot of them feel frustrated to the point where they have almost NO expectations from government. People can be cynical and skeptical and, well, in some cases bitter. The challenge the Obama campaign faces is to get voters to step out of that mindset. It's a tough thing to get over the inner fear that you will be disappointed AGAIN by elected officials. I tell you, I'm working on it myself.

I commend Obama for not letting someone label this flap as racial. The fact is, Hillary Clinton has just discovered something that will distract people from her own dishonest candidacy. So, she's milking it for all it's worth.

Let's get back to talking about issues. Let's hear how these people are going to solve real problems for real Americans.

I'll be watching the next debate with interest.

Obama: 'It's politics' not race

Louis, Phoenix, Az. — Tue, 15 Apr 2008 19:08:07 GMT

Isn't it time we had an adult in the White House? Is Obama perfect, not by a long shot. I don't agree with everything he proposes and he has made mistakes in his campaign. In short, he is a human being. I agree with him the most of all the remaining candidates. I think he would bring a maturity in action as well as a tone of professionalism that has been missing from the executive branch most of my adult life. I do believe that his agenda reflects a genuine concern for the American people and American values. his reponse here is nothing but class. The easy road would have been to just let it hang out there, not agreeing or disagreeing and allowing the race issue to be the news. "PA finds Hillary racist" great headline. Instead he calls it exactly what it is. He had the chance to play politics and he played integrity instead. This is the what we need. We are in a hole and we don't need a fighter and we don't need someone who thinks we can get out by digging deeper. We need someone who will look at the problem, find the solution and then executing that solution.

Obama: 'It's politics' not race

John Doe, WA — Tue, 15 Apr 2008 19:08:57 GMT

Obama knew what he was saying. It was Not a poor choice of words, it was a Poor choice of strategy. He was probably trying to use is as a rallying cry to vote for him and for the Pa voters to show their frustration with the government, but it backfired and was an insult to the PA voters in small towns and in small towns all across America. One cannot assume that people are bitter and cling to guns and religon as he stated. It ony shows his inexperience in dealing with the American public. Imagine how foreign leaders would feel is whatever he says he later states that it was a poor choice of words. This is a dangerous world we live in and cannot afford for someone to give poor choice of words or press wrong buttons. Furthermore, I don't see why he was criticizing Hillary for taking a shot and then a beer when he was videoed drinking a beer himself, bowling (a low score at that), being asked what his favorite movie was, and what actor should portray him. Who is using the media now? I'm surprised they didn't ask him what his favorite color was? Maybe they did and I missed that part? Our country cannot have further misinterpretations ike that, First, from his his wife Michelle, then his pastor and mentor the Rev. Wright, and now Him. Hillary is the Best choice to turn the economy around. Vote for Hillary!!!

Obama: 'It's politics' not race

Bonnie — Tue, 15 Apr 2008 19:10:23 GMT

Which of the three candidates is most out of touch with rural working class Americans?
I am a rural working class American. I worked a blue collar job for 24 years. The pay was not great but we had benefits. Then people started being pushed out of their jobs, so the employees could hire non-benefited workers. I was one of them. Since then my husband and I have managed to get by on his construction work. We're not church goers or hunters, though we own guns and believe in the right of the second ammendment. John, Hillary and Barack would possibly look down their noses at me. That's ok. We come from different worlds. We're not going to be having dinner with any of them.
What I want to know is, in spite of our different worlds, which one wants to put a stop to the unbridled corporate greed, the shrinking middle class and innocent people being slaughtered in ill-conceived occupations of other countries. McCain will continue the course we are on. Clinton will change little as her main agenda is to achieve personal power. To me, Barrack Obama is head and shoulders above the other two. If he will really try to turn our country in a better direction, then he can look down his nose at me all he wants.
An older white woman for Obama no matter what.

Obama: 'It's politics' not race

Lia — Tue, 15 Apr 2008 19:10:52 GMT

I agree with the gentleman at the town hall. When I heard Hillary and McCain say "elitist" I thought "uppity." It's ridiculouse that Obama, who grew up poor and pulled himself by his bootstraps could be considered an "elite." His statement above is proof of his decency and that he is way more charitable than I am.

Obama: 'It's politics' not race

Mary Dawn, Placentia, Ca. — Tue, 15 Apr 2008 19:10:56 GMT

Many individuals seem to forget that elitism does not necessarily equate to wealth. Mr. Obama in many ways has lead a privileged life that many Black Americans and many middle Americans have not had. He has experienced living in other cultures, traveled and has had a priviledged education from one of the primer universities in the world. His family left Kansas when his mother was in the 6th grade, never to return, so much for Kansas roots. Like some women, apparently, his mother made some very poor choices in regard to men in her life, deserted, remarried and divorced. The fact that she was a single mother bring up a child was her choice, this is what she selected for her son. I think the shoe fits, Mr. Obama and definitely his wife appear snobs to a certain extent.

Obama: 'It's politics' not race

Billy Jameson, Montclair, NJ — Tue, 15 Apr 2008 19:11:07 GMT

I agree with Obama - it's not racism, it's do-everything-you-can-to-win politics. And labeling Obama an elitist is never going to work for anyone who looks into the facts.

What the Republican politician said the other night (calling Obama 'boy'), that's racism.

Obama: 'It's politics' not race

Renee L, GA — Tue, 15 Apr 2008 19:11:12 GMT

This is why he's winning. He's a class act. He never came out and attacked her for Bosnia lies. He doesn't stoop to that kind of politics.

Obama: 'It's politics' not race

Rick,Ky — Tue, 15 Apr 2008 19:12:09 GMT

Pat as i stated in an earlier post, America is sending Hillary back to New York for ya.America has No further use for her, maybe New Yorker's still may, but i Doubt it.

Again Barack shows Presedential Statesmanship!This time in front of Veteran's, who obviously see thru Hillary & the Illiterates.So many times he could have Knocked her out flat on the Mat, but chose time & again to be the kind of Preseident, America can be Proud of.

Refreshing Indeed!

Obama: 'It's politics' not race

andress — Tue, 15 Apr 2008 19:12:34 GMT

Obama is a class act, and is far too "real" for Hillary to follow.

Obama: 'It's politics' not race

Baileigh — Tue, 15 Apr 2008 19:13:18 GMT

It's nice to know that at least one of the democratic candidates has some class. Senator Clinton would have pounced all over that type of question, and probably would have turned it into another negative attack ad.

Obama: 'It's politics' not race

CJ — Tue, 15 Apr 2008 19:13:25 GMT

I interpretted some of the GOP's attacks on Obama being 'uppity' yesterday. Oh he's just an 'out of touch black man looking down on whites'..etc etc. That is what is between the lines and I think it's real, but like some said Obama doesn't want to get stuck in that trap. But it's a dangerous theme to flirt with, especially when Obama's history shows the exact opposite. Nobody should question his education or any candidates but we all know the conservative anti-education playbook.

Obama: 'It's politics' not race

William, Alabama — Tue, 15 Apr 2008 19:13:41 GMT

If you attack Obama, well you are a racist. That's what the media labels you. The media wants obama to win..so they force you to shut up by calling you a racist. This has been going on for months. Nothing new here.

Obama: 'It's politics' not race

John McCain, The White House — Tue, 15 Apr 2008 19:14:03 GMT

Vote Obama next week!!!!

AverageJoe4Obama, Bethesda, MD (Sent Tuesday, April 15, 2008 2:58 PM)

_________________________________________

NO.

Obama: 'It's politics' not race

sotiredofignorance — Tue, 15 Apr 2008 19:14:20 GMT

Actually, that was the first thing I thought of when I saw Senator Clinton in front of the cameras with all her feigned outrage. How DOES she explain 'uppity'?

Obama: 'It's politics' not race

Steve B. NewYork, NY — Tue, 15 Apr 2008 19:14:23 GMT

The difference in style and substance ... I mean even Hillary supporters must see this. This man is presidential.
He did not take the bait. He could have "gone there" but he chose not to ... wisely.
Teflon Obama!
Can anyone tell me if Hillary can come up with the same answer?
She would have said " AS FAR AS I KNOW...OR YOU HAVE TO ASK THEM ?"

I should stop .. just thinking of how she's run her campaign sickens me.
I really used to like her .

I ACTUALLY THINK THAT SHE WOULD MAKE THE BEST COMMANDER IN CHIEF !

But I think that Obama would make an excellent choice too.
But ALSO OBAMA WOULD UNITE THE COUNTRY !

The dillema has been solved .. He's got more delegates, more states won and more people have voted for him !

The politics of the Clintons just flabbergast me every day !

Obama: 'It's politics' not race

christian — Tue, 15 Apr 2008 19:14:34 GMT

Pat Huntington,

why should anyone waste breath (or keystrokes) to try to explain something so clear to someone so thick and ignorant as yourself?? I for one won't even try. If you can't see how things are w/o others having to explain it to you then please just move to Canada or something. we don't need you. and we certainly don't WANT you.

Obama: 'It's politics' not race

sfdem — Tue, 15 Apr 2008 19:14:38 GMT

Pennsylvanians: Save us from Billary, please! These people would cut their own mothers off at the knees to further their own gain.

Nice response, Barack -- honest, calm, measured, fair. Among the very qualities we need in a President.

Obama: 'It's politics' not race

Josiah, Wabash, Indiana — Tue, 15 Apr 2008 19:15:03 GMT

Pat, Huntington

I swear you must be Pat Buchanan. Regardless if Barack Obama showed character or not you want to bash the guy and say that he is completely unelectable. I hope America knows that the electoral map is going to change this election year. So many of yall are stuck in the same ole typical America. I'm an Indiana Republican and I already know my vote is going Democrat. I am not as naive to think that my Red state will do the same but I just want to forewarn yall that things are changing. But please PA do us a favor and vote Obama, because I don't want to have to vote Hillary but I know I can't vote McLame.

Obama: 'It's politics' not race

patty,sd,ca — Tue, 15 Apr 2008 19:16:51 GMT

When Obama attacks Hillary, it's ok, but when she attacks Obama, then its wrong. Obamabots, explain this to me?

Pat huntington NY (Sent Tuesday, April 15, 2008 2:57 PM)

______________________________________

PAT, you are silly. How dare you ask a reasonable question. I don't know who is more brainwashed the people from the LDS or the Obamabots,

Obama: 'It's politics' not race

squintz, philly, pa — Tue, 15 Apr 2008 19:17:00 GMT

Pat, Huntington, NY - why don't you try referring to us as something other than "Obamabots" and perhaps we'd be inclined to respond. As is, no thanks.

This is exactly what is playing out in PA - people a) recognize the code word "elitist" for the empty political point-scorer that it is, b) find it elitist for people to tell us how offended we should be when we aren't, and c) know a real elitist when we see one. Not only does this attack link Clinton directly to a standard, useless GOP talking point, it gives Obama a totally fair opening to reveal the more rags-to-riches portion of his own life story and also to contrast it directly with Clinton's own experience and current status as a true elite. Har har har har, I can't wait until the debate tomorrow. How much could Clinton possibly know about PA to think this would work? Underestimating Obama's political ability has been the single most detrimental element of her entire campaign, and it may finally do her in this time. You should see the Obama energy on the ground here. Go PA!

Obama: 'It's politics' not race

the Pajama Pundit — Tue, 15 Apr 2008 19:17:11 GMT

“Hopefully it will come to an end fairly soon,” he said, “and we’ll start focusing on the issues that the people of Pennsylvania and the American people really care about.”
**************************************************

Indeed. However, with the play that this 'story' has been getting in the media - I seriously doubt that it's going anywhere anytime soon.

Where is Bill Clinton with his gaffe-machine when you need him?

http://thepajamapundit.com/

Obama: 'It's politics' not race

Lisa, NY — Tue, 15 Apr 2008 19:17:39 GMT

Every political season has someone for change (anyone remember W's rhetoric 8 years ago?) and a "Teflon man". It will be interesting what the press will do when they have to choose between the original "Teflon John", who actually allows the press on the back of the bus, and Obama.

More interestingly will be what everyone is saying about Obama a year after he gets into office when he proves himself to be just another politician..

Obama: 'It's politics' not race

Jessica — Tue, 15 Apr 2008 19:18:28 GMT

When Obama attacks Hillary, it's ok, but when she attacks Obama, then its wrong. Obamabots, explain this to me?
Pat huntington NY (Sent Tuesday, April 15, 2008 2:57 PM)
````````````````````````````````````````````````````````

Pat, please tell us when Senator Obama has attacked Hillary?

I want a specific instance and I want to know exactly what he said?

I think you are talking out of your arse, as I have yet to see Obama "attack" Hillary?

We are all waiting for your answer Pat.

Obama: 'It's politics' not race

Ken, Highland — Tue, 15 Apr 2008 19:18:35 GMT

CHUCK, I am a rural voter, and you know what? I am bitter, and I am sick of all of the wedge issues (Gays, Abortion, Guns). I am bitter that politicians have been using issues like these to garner support while they ship our jobs overseas, and give tax cuts to the wealthy. I don't need 600 dollars, I need for my government to worry about the economy and international relations, not banning abortion or homosexuality. I need my government to be fiscally responsible by not fighting wars of choice and lowering taxes, bankrupting our economy and signing my children and their children into indentured servitude. Stop talking about this non-story, or you will lose a viewer of MSNBC and NBC forever. There are issues that are actually important, talk about them instead of playing gotcha, with a comment that while poorly phrased was ultimately true. Talk about how this is a misstatement, and Clinton's remark about Tusla, and her comment that she wanted to join the Marines in the 70's were LIES. How about fair play?

Obama: 'It's politics' not race

joshua, portland, or — Tue, 15 Apr 2008 19:18:47 GMT

So the lady worth 109 million is accusing the guy worth 5 million that he is an elitis !?!

While the guy worth 32k a year actually agrees with what was said......

... After i get laid off and the republicans give a tax break to the CEO that just took my job. The republicans coem to me with Gay marrage and gun control as the reason i should vote for them...

i am so confused, if you try to lead this country and show people another way to think then your an elitist, but if you pander ENDLESSLY.. then your an honest politician..

Obama: 'It's politics' not race

Deborah Greenlawn, NY — Tue, 15 Apr 2008 19:19:53 GMT

Good for that questioner for getting some of it.

Good to stay on the high road. A McCain/Obama race
will be civil. (So far John McCain's taken the
classiest way to be tough and make points.)

Will be so glad to get out of this Clinton gutterball politics.

Obama: 'It's politics' not race

twocanpete — Tue, 15 Apr 2008 19:20:07 GMT

http://twocanpete.blogspot.com/
If Obama's remarks weren't racist why didn't he mention the millions of inner city blacks who are unemployed and happen to own guns or go to church or want an end to illegal immigration? I guess being bitter is just a 'white thing', but don't tell that to Obama's pastor.

Obama: 'It's politics' not race

Alan, NJ — Tue, 15 Apr 2008 19:20:08 GMT

Racism by who? Read Bob Herbert's op-ed in todays NYT.

It was a comment by BO that had racial overtones that started all this - "they cling to guns or religion or antipathy to people who aren't like them.". He never criticized the same type of voters in Mississippi or Louisiana or South Carolina when they voted for him or do they not cling to religion and guns, or maybe their economic situation is much better than in Ohio and Pennsylvania? The question is why did they vote for him but after millions of dollars in advertising, the same type of voters seem unmoved. We know what BO thinks is the reason (and it's confirmed by the statements of his wife and his spiritual adviser).

Obama: 'It's politics' not race

Inez, Seattle — Tue, 15 Apr 2008 19:20:19 GMT

This man, Barack Obama, is healing; he is kind; he is classy; and he is a gentleman. To know this, one needs to look no further than his reply to this elderly supporter. It is no wonder he inspires hope. He appeals to the best in us. We have needed such a leader for a very long time.

Obama: 'It's politics' not race

Robin — Tue, 15 Apr 2008 19:20:27 GMT

The sad fact is, there are a few racists left in America. But thankfully, most of us are moving beyond that old painful mindset. It really has no honest place in this election. Our issues of Iraq and a failing economy need to be front and center, without all this foolishness. As for attacks on Obama, both side have had their venomous supporters. I don't blame either candidate for what a few loose cannons on the internet boards and blogs tend to spew. The candidates have no control over that. Candidates are responsible for their positions, not for every person with a computer and loose fingers typing nastiness. Supporters of both sides are pointing the finger at each other, and both need to look in the mirror. All the white noise going on here is not going to change this outcome, no matter how many ALL CAPS, exclamation marks, or snide remarks some bloggers churn out.

Obama: 'It's politics' not race

Dr.Strangedog, MI — Tue, 15 Apr 2008 19:21:00 GMT

This is not the first time criticism of Obama has been labeled "racist". It's going to be fun trying to criticize him as president.
John Doe, Seattle, Wash.
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Did you even read the article? Obama wasn't being called racist, dummy, Clinton was. YEEESH!

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ya but Obamb's supporters will play it as racists - they always do --Obama is uppity

WOW. I think you forgot Yee_Haw!! I wish 1st read or one of the pundits would point out the trend of the Clinton's. Ferroro, Bill's South Carolina remarks and this. It's the definition of class to ignore it and chalk it up to politics. Hillary DEFINITELY would not have done the same.

Obama: 'It's politics' not race

Cowboy Jack — Tue, 15 Apr 2008 19:21:09 GMT

Sen. Obama: you've badly damaged your chances of winning in Nov....please step aside for the good of the party

Obama: 'It's politics' not race

jwylder — Tue, 15 Apr 2008 19:22:37 GMT

obama reminds me of gw. He is arrogant too. GW never admits when he makes a mistake or that he has done anything wrong. If he had, maybe the country wouldn't be in the shape it is in now; i.e., he would have taken opportunities to correct some of his mistakes. No. He just keep making mistakes and never owns up to them. I blame some of obama's arrogances on his supporters, just like obama they makes excuses for his ill remards and behaviors, thereby enabling him to not be responsible for his actions or behaviors. Somebody had better tame that monster now!!!. Another elitist president in the white house would be disasterous. Remember the New Orleans debacle.

Obama: 'It's politics' not race

OBwan, IN — Tue, 15 Apr 2008 19:22:47 GMT

Sally Mae Quinn (Sent Tuesday, April 15, 2008 2:56 PM)

That's what my 5 sets of foster parents taught me. That's why I have nothing to say about Hill and Bill.

Obama: 'It's politics' not race

donna, pgh., pa. — Tue, 15 Apr 2008 19:22:59 GMT

Obama is right. Anybody notice he did not invoke the congressman from Kentucy who called him 'boy' either?

That's why we love this guy.

Pulling for Obama '08

Obama: 'It's politics' not race

Deborah Greenlawn, NY — Tue, 15 Apr 2008 19:23:25 GMT

Jon Stewart had a great bit on The DAILY SHOW last night. He asked, doesn't 'elite' mean good? And if (you're running for Pres.) you aren't, then what the
f are you doing???
The questioner gets it. We need a smart president who has struggled financially and also gets it.

Obama: 'It's politics' not race

Chris W., Valparaiso, IN — Tue, 15 Apr 2008 19:23:55 GMT

We're talking about electing the PRESIDENT here, people. Leader of the free world.

He SHOULD be "better than me" in nearly every way! Shouldn't that be a GOOD thing?!?

Obama: 'It's politics' not race

Lisa, in working class New Britain, CT — Tue, 15 Apr 2008 19:24:01 GMT

When Obama first used the term "silly season" it wasn't a term I particularly liked. Suffice it to say, it has really grown on me, it very aptly describes what we do to each other, what our candidates do to us during heavy campaigning.

Both Obama and the older gentleman are right...it is silly season, it is politics as usual (particularly when one is so behind that they are grasping at straws) and there have been (I believe) racial overtones throughout this campaign leveled in somewhat surprising (and usually covert) ways. We don't know if that is really what is going on from Team Clinton expressly, but when you have everyone talking about how Obama can't get the "white" working class vote, they're is quite possibly something racial going on. And with some of the quotes I've read about how people will or won't vote for a black person, its pretty out-of-touch to suggest that there isn't some prejudice going on.

But its hard to put a finger on it.

Obama: 'It's politics' not race

Bird — Tue, 15 Apr 2008 19:24:21 GMT

elite: the choice or best of anything considered collectively, as a group or class of persons: the elite of the intellectual community.
elitism: practice of or belief in rule by an elite. pride in belonging to a select and favored group.
Obama is telling the "uneducated" voters that since he is intellectually so superior we are not to question his mistakes, just blindly follow and support. It has nothing to do with money. His sense of intellectual and moral superiority make him an elitest.

Obama: 'It's politics' not race

BAdams, CC, TX — Tue, 15 Apr 2008 19:25:50 GMT

Isn't it sad that sometimes you are forced to apologize for your education?

We've had nearly 8 years of an ignorant SLOB, so I'm ready to move forward with an intelligent SNOB.