Star Power

Barack Obama couldn't have hoped for a better endorser than Oprah. Problem was, she outshone the candidate.

By Howard Fineman | Newsweek Web Exclusive
Dec 9, 2007 | Updated: 5:36  p.m. ET Dec 9, 2007

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  • Posted By: timcorkern81 @ 02/16/2008 6:42:00 PM

    Comment: Haha. Troy from Brooklyn can't even spell minorities. How's THAT for an education system? People are ignorant to vote for Osama (I mean...Obama) ONLY because he's black. As certain women are ignorant enough to vote for Hillary ONLY because she's a woman. Every major candidate that has a chance at winning scares the crap out of me when I consider one of them running my country. Some more than others. God help us if Obama or Hillary gets into office. Heard of goin to hell in a handbasket? That's what's comin.

  • Posted By: JMZ $.02 @ 01/19/2008 4:36:46 AM

    Comment: Many of the comments posted are purely ignorant. With our nation's public education failing tomorrow's leaders daily, I am not surprised. Be careful with the finger pointing. This failure began long before President Bush. Please educate yourself before you speak as if you see the full scope.
    How many of you have actually served your country in support of OIF or OEF? Have you ever had a mother show whole-hearted gratitude to you for giving her child medicine because she thought they were going to die? Have you ever been told thank you by an Iraqi man in a wheel chair for helping his country stand on their own? Who are you to disrespect the men and women who have gaven their lifes by speaking of a situation you know nothing of?
    Do you know what the differences are between the baseline beliefs of Muslims, Christians and Jews? Do you know which of the distinctions following the book(s) of God has the most violent history? And I am not referencing the extremists in this regard. I reference the head of the distinction sanctioning violence as a standard.
    Do you know the questionable backgrounds of some our nations 'greatest' leaders? Are you basing your vote on what's best for our country? Do you know the history of each candidate's political decisions? Or are you basing your vote on some feeble connection to the dream of being a 'part' of history?
    America, wake up! The decision we collectively make this election will significantly shape our future. Make your part of that decision based on the right reason...the education reason.

  • Posted By: nubianking11 @ 01/08/2008 12:04:38 PM

    Comment: I feel that it's time America has a black Democratic President. I will vote for Obama,and all blacks,minoroties and even whites should vote for Obama. He will do a much better job than Bush,and he will help all working class people,not just us blacks. He is against the Middle East War too. I agree with Obama 100%!

    Troy N. Brooklyn,N.Y.

  • Posted By: mvpeach @ 12/22/2007 9:39:27 PM

    Comment: The Republicans have played the American people for suckers, and we wound up with George Bush, not once, but twice. Now Oprah is taking a page from the Republican playbook, playing us for suckers again and trying to give us another arrogant, inexperienced upstart. When will we ever learn. We're in a terrible mess, and we can't afford another horrendous mistake. We need someone experienced. Anyone of the following will do: Clinton, Biden, McCain, Dodd, but please no more repeats of the past. Oprah, do what you do best--entertain. pe

  • Posted By: mvpeach @ 12/22/2007 9:32:22 PM

    Comment: Usually it's the Republicans who play the American people for suckers, and they have succeeded by doing so. After all they gave us George Bush, not once, but twice. "What fools these mortals be..." And now Oprah, taking a page from the Republican play book, is doing it again--trying to sell us on another inexperienced candidate with, forget the hope, with the arrogance that allows them to believe he could lead us out of the mess Bush has made. He can't. He's an egotistical upstart.

  • Posted By: lapatrick @ 12/18/2007 10:50:56 PM

    Comment: I think people need to get over Obama's childhood religious affiliations, his not being Black enough (what ever that means in todays world), his experience, and understand this is a time of change.
    You have chosen to keep a known racist in office( Strom Thurmond's champion), an political leader who has destroyed our standing in the world arena and is stealing education from our children and robbing our elderly of proper and easy access to drugs to pay for wars while part of this money could give every public school child a computer in school and health care, and no one makes great waves about any of this blatant misuse of our tax money. Wake up and clear the window of your perception. The fact that an African American can run for the presidency of this United States and receive the real attention from the world is proof that a change is here. Vote and make a difference.

  • Posted By: have_a_cuddle @ 12/18/2007 6:07:15 PM

    Comment: Josh, sweety - Heal Thyself. As a Muslim in America I can promise the last thing I want is to destroy my own country. The U.S. rocks. I'd be more worried about Obama's inexperience than his religion. In any case, your saying Wahabism is radical because some followers have become terrorists would be like me saying Christianity is radical because the Columbine shooters were Christian. Please think about what you're saying before you write it. : )

  • Posted By: josh66 @ 12/16/2007 10:27:56 AM

    Comment: INTERESTING READING! THANKS Tell Oprah ...OBAMA'S BACKGROUND CHECK !!!!!! I am surprised that you have not done your homework. We checked this out on "snopes.com". It is factual. Check for yourself. Probable U.S. presidential candidate, Barack Hussein
    Obama was born in Honolulu, Hawaii to Barack Hussein Obama, Sr., a black MUSLIM from Nyangoma-Kogel, Kenya and Ann Dunham, a white ATHIEST from Wichita, Kansas. Obama's parents met at the University of Hawaii. When Obama was two years old, his parents divorced. His father returned to Kenya . His mother then married Lolo Soetoro, a RADICAL Muslim from Indonesia.? When Obama was 6 years old, the family relocated to Indonesia. Obama attended a MUSLIM school in Jakarta. He also spent two years in a Catholic school. Obama t akes great care to conceal the fact that he is a Muslim. He is quick to point out that, "He was once a Muslim, but that he also attended Catholic school." Obama's political handlers are attempting to make it appear that he is no longer Muslim. Obama's introduction to Islam came via his father, and that this influence was temporary at best. In reality, the senior Obama returned to Kenya soon after the divorce, and never again had any direct influence over his son's education. Lolo Soetoro, the second husband of Obama's mother, Ann Dunham, introduced his stepson to Islam. Obama was enrolled in a Wahabi school in Jakarta . Wahabism is the RADICAL teaching that is followed by the Muslim terrorists who are now waging Jihad against the western world. Since it is politically expedient to be a CHRISTIAN when seeking major public office in the United States, Barack Hussein Obama has joined the United Church of Christ in an attempt to downplay his Muslim background. ALSO, keep in mind that when he was sworn into office he DID NOT use the Holy Bible, as all of our other public officials, but instead the Koran. Let us all remain alert concerning Obama's expected presidential candidacy. The Muslims have said they plan on destroying the US from the inside out, what better way to start than at the highest evel - through the President of the United States, one of their own!!!!

  • Posted By: josh66 @ 12/16/2007 10:26:16 AM

    Comment: Recently free ride for Obama from political press corps, and it feels besieged as it has to bat away incessant questions with Obama's significant shifts, flip flopping on issues such as Patriot Act, Defense of Marriage Act, Fast Track trade authority and benefits for same-sex couples. Given how little experience Obama has, its understandable that his campaign doesnt want any kind of focus on his record, These stories clearly raise questions about Obamas electability and serve as a stark reminder about how little the public knows about his positions. The Illinois chapter of the National Organization for Women, Obama said he would vote to repeal the Patriot Act. In 2006 Obama voted for the redrafted version of the Patriot Act that some critics contended made only minor changes to the original law. On Defense of Marriage Act Obama answered No,to the question: "Do you support repeal of the Defense of Marriage Act. On Fast Track authority, which requires Congress to vote yes or no and without amendments on pending trade deals, Obama opposes Fast Track authority because it is a usurpation of Congress' role to ensure that negotiated trade agreements serve the best interests of our country, including protection of the environment, worker rights and human rights.In remarks to the Detroit Economic Club in May, Obama said, I plan to be president, so I actually want Fast Track. But I'm willing to constrain myself in Fast Track to make sure that we???ve got strong labor and environmental protections.On benefits for same-sex couples, Obama said, he would need to evaluate the fiscal impact of extending Social Security benefits to same-sex couples that married couples currently receive. Also Barack Obama (D-IL)involved in a suspicious real estate deal with an indicted political fundraiser, Antoin Tony Rezko. Obama also linked to an alleged influence peddling scandal and was nabbed conducting campaign business in his Senate office, a violation of federal law.

  • Posted By: darkwarrior146 @ 12/14/2007 2:33:18 AM

    Comment: I'm just curious why so many Hillary Clinton supports are outright bashing Obama. Not once have I seen retaliation to the equivilent level from a Obama supporter. What I also would like to know is why in this entire discussion, no one has actually mentioned the policies the two are fighting for? It just seems to mostly be a back and forth of Vote Hillary, No Vote Obama match. I would also like to know if everyone on here successfully completed elementary school English as one user in particular has an issue with subject/verb agreement. I'm not a avid supporter of either candidate, and after seeing Obama in SC, I am actually still undecided. I have been to conventions for both candidates, and to be honest, for me both leave more questions than answers. However, Obama does have a somewhat detailed plan available on his website, which as of lately I have not seen on Clinton's. Maybe I'm overlooking it. I myself am African American, but I will not be voting for Obama because he is black or half-black. Whoever I vote for it is because I have taken the time to study their policies and selected them because their ideals correspond with what I believe this country should have. I actually am happy that Oprah is supporting Obama, not because of any trinkle effect of her status, but because maybe her influence in the campaign will influence those that do not vote to actually exercise their right to do so, be it Obama or Clinton, Democrat or Republican. To be honest I never completely understood the divide between the two parties anyway. I wish we had a candidate that was pushing to unite our country, instead of further divide it into factions of supporters (normal and fanatical alike). As far as Obama's vs Clinton's experience, to me experience is irrevelent when considering the next president, what should be examined is their values, ideals, and what they bring to the table for this country. I don't know maybe I'm idealist because I'm only 21, but these are the factors I look at and will be looking for in the next potential future President of the United States.

  • Posted By: skd500 @ 12/11/2007 9:41:39 PM

    Comment: I wish you the best of luck, Mr. Obama.

    You will have to do a lot of truthful campaigning to return my faith in any leader in my country, because I truly have lost my faith in the country I once loved and believed in, and I can't seem to get it back.......skd500

  • Posted By: Mike2k7 @ 12/11/2007 6:40:17 PM

    Comment: Howard, I know you are entitled to your own opinion and that's all what the headline is; but with all due respect you are wrong!! Oprah, did not outshine Obama. All she did was bring a different kind of energy to the audience, and she did a great job of that. I don't what show you were watching, but it certainly wasn't this past weekend.

  • Posted By: Plus One @ 12/11/2007 4:05:24 PM

    Comment: Dude: If Goerge W. can run this country (or at least was given an opportunity to) , Obama can certainly do it much better. We need a clean slate in this country, a complete paradigm shift at every level - healthcare, taxes, race relations, foreign affairs etc. you name it - and I for one believe the more "experienced" you are in anything, the harder it is to switch gears to a new beginning. So yes, bring on the brother with deep intellect, clear vision, charisma to spare and a boldness to offer our country a brand new day. Jah bless!

  • Posted By: Shaun Hoffmeyer @ 12/11/2007 2:53:11 PM

    Comment: Do we accept Barack Obama as president on the authority of Oprah, the celebrity talk show host? Expertise not in government but entertainment, she is recognized for her talk show and conglomerate--entertainer, producer, and business woman.

    Barack is vying for US president, chief government executive and supreme military commander, with legislative but no recognized executive or military qualifications; he is not running for President and Celebrity-in-Chief of the United States of Entertainment.

    Oprah speaks personally--a friend and fundraiser for Obama; three years known and three million dollars raised.

    Oprah encourages us to substitute Barack's life experience for professional qualifications; character, vision, wisdom, and record as community organizer; IL and US senator suffice. She knows he "is the one," timely and ordained for America.

    But does she divine and apply the same hiring standard to pilots, doctors, lawyers, and teachers; unnecessary are professional qualifications and competence, but likable people with life experience suffice? Working in a soup kitchen, voting on a referendum, supporting the local incumbent--it proves competent the FA-18 fighter pilot, heart surgeon, criminal defense lawyer, physics professor, structural engineer...and the next US president!

    But she may reply, "That's how people are hired in Chicago; the standard is right for America too!"

    Oprah generates a fictitious idealized Utopian savior-president image and identifies it with America; she projects Barack Obama into this image and recommends him as that image; she asks Americans substitute her judgment of Barack's so-called wisdom for standard professional credentials; she attempts to persuade America to accept her judgment in place of reason.

    Common standards used to assess professional competence, especially with respect to the powers and duties of the US president, apply to Barack Obama no less than to any; projecting Barack Obama into a fictitious presidential image and recommending him based on it is sophistry.

    • Posted By: Mike2k7 @ 12/11/2007 6:30:41 PM

      Comment: Another one track minded, narrow thinking individual. Read your constitution. The only prerequisite for you to run for the office of president is that you are a US born citizen of at least 35 years of age. If Bush can run, then anybody can run. We all know that almost all politicians get endorsed by celebrities. So what is wrong with Oprah doing the same thing. It's never been an issue in the past with other candidates. So why know? If people can elect someone as dumb as Bush to serve them for eight years then i don't why they'll be afraid to have someone who is actually intelligent representing them globally. It is a shame that we still have a bunch of discriminative xenophobic creatures in our midst. Wake up!!! It's 2007, not 1907!

      • Posted By: t9900 @ 12/11/2007 8:20:47 PM

        Comment: Narrow minded? Him no, People who follow the biased media's hatred of Bush no matter what he does are narrow minded. Please, just because someone does not think the same way as you is narrow minded.

  • Posted By: hurtnem @ 12/11/2007 1:22:41 PM

    Comment: A typical opinion by a white guy. Obama did fine and Oprah and his wife did fine. Stop trying to put him down, we know you love your little Hilary.

  • Posted By: hurtnem @ 12/11/2007 1:20:09 PM

    Comment: A white guy's response. Obama did just fine and Oprah didn't outhine him or his wife.

  • Posted By: reporter21 @ 12/11/2007 11:45:53 AM

    Comment: ? What Color is That, Obama Is more white then you think! He was raised largely by his grandparents and Mother , Who's Name was Ann, and both Mother And Grandparents were white.
    www.poconocommunitynews.com

  • Posted By: reporter21 @ 12/11/2007 11:41:54 AM

    Comment: Hey, A Picture Is Worth A Thousand Words;www.poconocommunitynews.com

  • Posted By: goldsmith1747 @ 12/11/2007 8:52:00 AM

    Comment: If you were to choose someone to help you get elected, Oprah was definetly the right choice. She commands a mass of loyal watchers to her show and we the people as stupid t.v. watchers listen to big name people. I do believe the only reason she is endorsing him is that he is part black and looks the part. The black community is dreaming of the day when they will get their chance in the White House! To be honest this man Obama hasn't the experience to fufill the office of President. He thinks one term in the Senate prepares someone for this job. I think also with a name like Barack Obama it sounds to close to Osama bin Laden and the voters wont choose him based on the name recognition.

  • Posted By: ceasarcarcus @ 12/11/2007 7:44:28 AM

    Comment: It is abundantly clear that lots of people believe Oprah endorses Obama simply because he is black. Why is it that the motives of Chuck Norris, Barbara Streisand, and other actor/performer/singer persons aren't being questioned? Is it possible that these people refuse to endorse Obama because he is black? Oh no, that is just as ludicrous as the idea that Oprah only sees a black man. It seems that some of us only see Oprah and Obama's ethnicity as their single most important unifying factor.

  • Posted By: jimwatts @ 12/11/2007 6:34:01 AM

    Comment: I love Oprah and I hate obama, do you know in a debate he refused to swear allegiance to the flag and hold his hand over his hearth. What person runs for presidency and not swear allegiance to the flag. If you going to be in this country and reap all the benefits you better show respect

  • Posted By: Sproutky @ 12/11/2007 6:04:44 AM

    Comment: Chuck Norris has caused me to take a second look at Huckabee. I'm disappointed that Chuck is republican, but I definitely am interested in his opinions. Not because he's an actor or famous but because I know who he is and what he has gone through and accomplished. Neither of these celebrities will cause me to vote for either of their candidates, but they have caused me to look closer at what the candidate stands for.
    Truthfully, I've chosen mine, and it's neither of these. That doesn't mean they're bad candidates, it just means that mine is better. Of course, after the primary, I'll have to choose another because Kucinich won't make i through, but until then, I'm behind him 100%.

  • Posted By: Sproutky @ 12/11/2007 5:58:46 AM

    Comment: I love Oprah and I love Obama. However, would she be doing the same thing if Obama was a tall, skinny white man instead of a tall, skinny black man? If not, then Oprah, even Oprah is touched by racism.
    I have never worried about the color of a man/woman's skin, but, instead, what was in their heart and mind. Is Oprah doing this because Obama is the right candidate or is she doing it only because he is a viable candidate, with a chance of winning, who happens to have more melanin than the other candidates?
    Kucinich would seem to be much closer to her politically philosophical base, why is she not stumping for him?

  • Posted By: foxlinkor @ 12/10/2007 11:58:11 PM

    Comment: nonsense

  • Posted By: Fasteddie @ 12/10/2007 11:34:12 PM

    Comment: It's funny how many posters seem to feel that Oprah is endorsing Obama because he is black. Had you been paying attention you would know that he is her Senator, and she was one of the people to suggest to him that he run. She donated the max $2,300 sponcered a fund raiser at her home and is out campaigning for him. Where I come from they call that, putting your money where your mouth is. she has said she's never done this before.......Maybe, just maybe she believes he is the leader that this country needs today.
    America, don't you just love it !!!!

  • Posted By: t9900 @ 12/10/2007 10:39:09 PM

    Comment: To amamdaC:
    Me, ignorant? No you are very ignorant. First you show ignorance by saying the Republican Party wants to start WWIII. Second you say you are intolerant of Republicans. Intolerance causes wars. Now you are a hypocrite.

    Comment: I'd rather have Obama on the dem ticket than
    Hillary but after watching his rally on C-SPAN I'm not so sure. like most Democrats he spent to much time talking about the past and attacking Bush. That's why I don't like Democrats, and the comments here just prove my point. You take your dislike of their religious values and views to the extreme to the point that you refuse to compromise or even attempt to learn about their views or accept them as their opinions without calling them extremists or nutcases. I'd say Republicans are more intolerant of things outside the US, but you Democrats are way more intolerant of things, such as Republicans and their views inside the US. I see more bashing and slander coming from the Democrats these days then ever before most of it because of ignorance of the other wing and media caused hate. Please stop your hate and ignorance before its to late.

    And one last thing, isn't it funny how everybody attacks Huckabee when Chuck Noris supports him, but when Oprah supports Obama its great?

  • Posted By: wored @ 12/10/2007 9:56:20 PM

    Comment: Within the Democratic Party race matters very little
    so Obama may well when the nomination
    but racism is far from dead in the United States the Republicans know this
    in fact they're banking on it that is why Barak Obama stated he has more Republicans want his staff than any other Democrat
    the Republicans pull the same trick with Senator McGovern
    and Nixon craned him

  • Posted By: ltcastro @ 12/10/2007 8:52:18 PM

    Comment: mswhyte, I wish you would have posted your latest blog instead of attacking one's intelligence; you would have been taken more seriously. Whether I agree with your most recent statement or not, there are certain boundaries and resonable rules of decorum that have the purpose of creating expectations that maintain balance. I advocate neither an anarchist nor an autocratic sense of social systems. I do however expect a red street light to mean stop, streets to be safe from extreme crime, and people to respect one another's opinion in the USA. Rukes, when generally accepted, may be changed not by fiat, but by dialogue and competing forces exerting their reasonable influence. In other words, Obama should follow the expected set of behaviors until those rules are changed together. He should show the country he cares, wear the flag, and pledge allegiance to our flag. AFTERWARDS, he can try to change things in small steps, like the rest of us.

  • Posted By: mswhyte @ 12/10/2007 8:39:58 PM

    Comment: It is obvious by the number of posted comments on this article a lot of interests has been generated by Obama's bid for the presidency. Americans are talking about who will take the leadership of this nation and getting involved in the process. I suspect if this was the usual two man race we would be bored with the stump. There are some valid points raised here about Barack Obama's capabilities. There is also the never ending dialouge on race. It appears that there are many individuals who really are stunned that there is a black man who has the potential to lead this nation. Whether that is acceptable to them or not is another issue.
    I also believe that the combination of Obama and Oprah is very upsetting to many people. They are influential as individuals. There is no denying that about them. I have seen and heard many reactions about her endorsement. Some points are valid and others indicate how immature many of the nation's voters really are about this process.
    I like to believe that there is a seigment of the national population who will make an intelligent and informed choice about the next occupant of 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue.
    American might as well prepare for the surge of non white male candidates. Sooner of later there is going to be a leader who is not in the traditional mode. So if you're not ready for Barack there is going to be someone else. Believe that! All Americans and hopefully well suited to perform the job.

  • Posted By: ltcastro @ 12/10/2007 8:33:55 PM

    Comment: I will admit, after Obamas gain MORE experience, I will be more inclined to support them over other likely candidates. Happy?

  • Posted By: ltcastro @ 12/10/2007 8:27:46 PM

    Comment: mswhyte, who cares about Michelle Obama; she isn't running for president. If you consider the charade, absurd behavior, and lack of experience a "little gesture", then it is you with the limited mental, and probably emotional, capacity. Time will reveal the truth.

  • Posted By: ltcastro @ 12/10/2007 8:15:32 PM

    Comment: The office of the president is to be taken seriously. The charade by these liberals makes a mockery of the process and the office. I certainly wouldn't want a surgeon to behave in the same manner as Obama to perform a life saving surgery. Writing books and two years in political office are NOT enough to run this country. The inexorable decisions made by a president may have permanent repurcussions.

  • Posted By: ceasarcarcus @ 12/10/2007 6:47:40 PM

    Comment: This message is for SCAIDEZ: I see your comment concerning race. As a black man, I would say that I am inclined to agree with you. However, do you believe that if Hillary Clinton was black, Barbara Streisand would endorse her? The fact is, while many people may not be racist, most are race conscious. Anyone who denies it is a liar. The reason Barack Obama is so remarkable is because he contradicts the stereotype of the stereotypical black man -- that is largely represented by the images portrayed by our ignorant and greed driven hip/hop culture. Barack Obama is our Cinderalla Man. So if Oprah or whoever wishes to support him, I think it is okay. That is the same for any candidate. Furthermore, when other black men, Jesse Jackson and Al Sharpton, made their bids for president, Oprah did not jump in their corners. Why is that? I really think it is because they were not like Obama. Whether he is white or black, something is different.

  • Posted By: ceasarcarcus @ 12/10/2007 6:46:23 PM

    Comment: This message is for SCAIDEZ: I see your comment concerning race. As a black man, I would say that I am inclined to agree with you. However, do you believe that if Hillary Clinton was black, Barbara Streisand would endorse her? The fact is, while many people may not be racist, most are race conscious. Anyone who denies it is a liar. The reason Barack Obama is so remarkable is because he contradicts the stereotype of the stereotypical black man -- that is largely represented by the images portrayed by our ignorant and greed driven hip/hop culture. Barack Obama is our Cinderalla Man. So if Oprah or whoever wishes to support him, I think it is okay. That is the same for any candidate. Furthermore, when other black men, Jesse Jackson and Al Sharpton, made their bids for president, Oprah did not jump in their corners. Why is that? I really think it is because they were not like Obama. Whether he is white or black, something is different.

  • Posted By: womo @ 12/10/2007 6:41:15 PM

    Comment: Only this past weekend. Check out his speeched at JJ Dinner or for the matter, the Demo National Convention, or the countless other speeches he's given. He is the best since JFK.

  • Posted By: eddiewhere @ 12/10/2007 6:34:55 PM

    Comment: To schaidez: I can bank my mortgage that if Bush were Black he would not have become President; do you agree? Could it be that Obama is being supported by OPRA because he is a strong candidate with good ideas, with the potential to become the next President. Can it be that people think is a UNIFIER INSTEAD OF A DIVIDER.
    What a breath of fresh-air. Look at the Republican side and their faith debate, it is so scary. Obama just has something the other candidates don't have. The other candidates must feel pretty small righ now. Hillary is a good politician but you have to be born with what Bill Clintorn and Obama have, CHARISMA. Remeber. Bill came out of nowhere to win in 1992. Obama just seems to be picking up momentum everyday. I never thought I would see the day where Hillary Clinton would be overshadowed.

  • Posted By: no95 @ 12/10/2007 6:34:45 PM

    Comment: I couldn't help to notice in the news clip earlier that the demeanor of the Mrs. seemed to change as he embraced Oprah and then turned back to her. Something going on behind the scenes???

    • Posted By: mswhyte @ 12/10/2007 8:18:47 PM

      Comment: Grow up! It is obvious that you have not taken any time to learn about Michelle Obama. She is more than capable of holding her own as a woman and as Barack's wife. Either join in a political discussion or go to the gossip pages! This is one of the most important elections of this decade and all you can comment on is some petty little gesture. Please do not insult our intelligence. Also do not insult the union between the Obamas. This comment only indicates to me that you are very small minded.

    • Posted By: womo @ 12/10/2007 6:47:28 PM

      Comment: What! are you high? Are you on something? Have you looked at the candidates on YouTube or their websites? Have you read Obama's two books? Go get some knowledge, then come back and talk to us!

  • Posted By: psysword @ 12/10/2007 6:28:09 PM

    Comment: amazing that this author pumps oprah as well read and blah blah. she is the source of some of the most boring unstimulating tv programming in the world. if she is the best that america has,, lets all go to marilyn manson and get him to help out some of the christian republicans.

  • Posted By: schaidez @ 12/10/2007 6:16:46 PM

    Comment: Everything else being the same, if Obama was white, I can bank my mortgage on the fact that Oprah would not endorse him.

  • Posted By: eddiewhere @ 12/10/2007 5:52:42 PM

    Comment: What a breath of fresh-air. Look at the Republican side and their faith debate, it is soo scary. Obama just has something the other candidates don't have. The other candidates must feel pretty small righ now. The question has no become not if Obama can but by how much will he win by? Hillary is a good politician but you have to be born with what Bill Clintorn and Obama. Remeber. Bill came out of nowhere to win in 1992. Obama just seems to be picking up momentum everyday. I never thought I would see the day where Hillary Clinton would be overshadowed.

  • Posted By: J_Raines @ 12/10/2007 5:50:38 PM

    Comment: someone wrote that Muslim beliefs contradict with West culture and that subsequently they can't lead America. That's crazy. Muslims can help lead America. If we accept their tax dollars, then they deserve representation as well. Isn???t that why our ???forefathers??? revolted against the British monarchy? Get a clue. Have you ever heard of Keith Ellison???our first Muslim Congressman. And get this, he took the oath of office on a Koran, the one owned by Thomas Jefferson.

  • Posted By: moinor @ 12/10/2007 3:59:45 PM

    Comment: Another election. Another candidate. Once again, the issues are health care, education, war, economy, etc. Nothing changes, nothing ever does. Doesn't matter if it's Obama, Clinton, Huckleberry, - the same thing wil happen - NOTHING! They'll be discussing the same things in the election of 2012.

  • Posted By: totherepublic.com @ 12/10/2007 3:35:32 PM

    Comment: touche jp

  • Posted By: peeteerock @ 12/10/2007 3:31:42 PM

    Comment: If people are basing their vote on such trivial things such as a candidate's looks and who endorses him, we are in really sad shape. This article covers the story as if it were covering the Oscars. Anyone who has taken the time to read Obama's books would know that he is a vital force for our country's future. I saw him speak in NYC recently. It was the most inspiring political speech I have ever heard.

  • Posted By: westminster @ 12/10/2007 3:27:52 PM

    Comment: gram-gram said:
    "Is everyone forgetting that we are at war and the reasons why we're at war? And no, it is NOT because of George H or George W Bush. The terrorists want us DEAD! Period."

    the bush family is INTIMATELY involved in THIS war and the last. PERIOD. if we hadn't supported the muhajadeen, the shah of iran, and other morons, we'd not be 'hated' by the terrorist, whom WE created.

    " "i don't think there will ever be another Ronald Reagan,"

    lets hope not...a war monger that never went to war; a B-actor who simply outspent the Soviets, and made us broke; a president who let close to 300 Marines get blown to bits and did NOTHING about it. yeah, thank GOD there's not another Ronald Ray-Gunn.

    "but there has got to be a candidate out there who embraces Reagan's politics and can find solutions to get the US out of this quagmire we're in."

    then you'd want another Richard Nixon, who promised to get us out of Vietnam, then spent another 5 years (longer than before he came in) getting us out.

    " Obama and Clinton are too much of lightweights to go out and fight on a global scale. "

    Bush, Jr. was a lightweight, merely governor of Texas.

    "They do not have the experience or political power and now is not the time to try the Oval office on for size! "

    Bush Jr. didnt have it.

    "Vote with your brains people, not with your emotions!"

    I will, and it will be for someone who's as far away from the current administration's idiocy, and Reagan's lunacy as possible.

  • Posted By: veevee @ 12/10/2007 3:27:36 PM

    Comment: the new world, the new vision. i want to hear what it is. im fed up of assuming what the new vision is, utilizing Mlk s words of yesterdays, that he had a dream... MLK had hope that all men shall be treated equally.. that obama has an opportunity to run for a president is the accomplished dream of MLK..how these words are used for a presidency campaign is.. twisting the memory and the purity of MLK s words and inspiration for personnal profit , (this sounds like a group movement that targets specific voters. . .) nonethelss, im sure their intent was to inspire the little people. i found it unethical and lacked of charisma in the delivery of words of oprah. oprahs speach was not as strong as her image. Obama was superbe! when u vote think foreign affairs.. whos the best candidate... a strong negotiator --- Hillary!

  • Posted By: westminster @ 12/10/2007 3:25:08 PM

    Comment: gram-gram said:
    "Is everyone forgetting that we are at war and the reasons why we're at war? And no, it is NOT because of George H or George W Bush. The terrorists want us DEAD! Period."

    the bush family is INTIMATELY involved in THIS war and the last. PERIOD. if we hadn't supported the muhajadeen, the shah of iran, and other morons, we'd not be 'hated' by the terrorist, whom WE created.

    " "i don't think there will ever be another Ronald Reagan,"

    lets hope not...a war monger that never went to war; a B-actor who simply outspent the Soviets, and made us broke; a president who let close to 300 Marines get blown to bits and did NOTHING about it. yeah, thank GOD there's not another Ronald Ray-Gunn.

    "but there has got to be a candidate out there who embraces Reagan's politics and can find solutions to get the US out of this quagmire we're in."

    then you'd want another Richard Nixon, who promised to get us out of Vietnam, then spent another 5 years (longer than before he came in) getting us out.

    " Obama and Clinton are too much of lightweights to go out and fight on a global scale. "

    Bush, Jr. was a lightweight, merely governor of Texas.

    "They do not have the experience or political power and now is not the time to try the Oval office on for size! "

    Bush Jr. didnt have it.

    "Vote with your brains people, not with your emotions!"

    I will, and it will be for someone who's as far away from the current administration's idiocy, and Reagan's lunacy as possible.

  • Posted By: jpchapman @ 12/10/2007 3:13:49 PM

    Comment: Well said aainscough. I couldn't agree more. If I was Obama (or Hillary for that matter), the FIRST thing I would've said when my campaign started and the thing I would reiterate constantly was that I wouldn't want to be voted in because of my skin color or my lack of male genitalia. Research the candidates. Find out what they stand for. Barack isn't going to help every Black if he becomes president, just as Hillary isn't going to help every woman. People need to realize that politics is more than skin color, gender, or even experience. It's about ideals, goals, ethics, intentions and morality.

  • Posted By: gram-gram @ 12/10/2007 3:13:39 PM

    Comment: Is everyone forgetting that we are at war and the reasons why we're at war? And no, it is NOT because of George H or George W Bush. The terrorists want us DEAD! Period. You may not like it but the best candidate is the one who can steer us through the next few years and whose TOP priority is keeping our country secure is the one who gets my vote. I don't think there will ever be another Ronald Reagan, but there
    has got to be a candidate out there who embraces Reagan's politics and can find solutions to get the US out of this quagmire we're in. Obama and Clinton are too much of lightweights to go out and fight on a global scale. They do not have the experience or political power and now is not the time to try the Oval office on for size! Vote with your brains people, not with your emotions!

  • Posted By: Monetfan @ 12/10/2007 3:09:56 PM

    Comment: Mr. Fineman, I posted earlier today that I do not think Oprah "outshone" Obama. Watching the Des Moines event live on C-SPAN, what came through was not only Obama's moving and inspirational speech, but the reaction on the faces of the audience members. It was very evident that people in that room were emotionally touched and lifted by his words. That can't be faked. It was palpable. He is connecting with people like no other candidate. This has turned the corner from being merely a campaign to becoming a true "Obama Movement." I mentioned in my previous post the similarity to Robert Kennedy. I was just a young teen in 1968, but I remember how swept up people were in his candidacy - and, of course, I have read much about it in subsequent years. RFK was a soft-spoken man - but a compelling speaker. Obama is a soft-spoken man as well, but you want to listen intently to every word. He is inspirational. He reminds me of why I am a Democrat. He is the real thing! And I just hope the Democrats in Iowa and New Hampshire give him the chance to move forward. This country needs a healer - Obama is that person.

  • Posted By: aainscough @ 12/10/2007 3:00:59 PM

    Comment: I really hate this election I mean we have a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day saints (ie. Mormon) an African American (ie. Black) and a Woman. So now we have everyone saying the Mormons are voting Romney the Blacks are voting Obama and the Woman are voting Hillary. This causes a major error in the whole political system, the fact that people should be doing there research and voting for candidates with similar ideas as themselves. I fear that we are going to end up with a president the majority doesn't want because the ignorant are going to vote ignorant.

    • Posted By: LaGirl @ 12/10/2007 4:53:34 PM

      Comment: Are you saying that the majority are ignorant? I don't have a problem with a woman, a minority or a mormon running for president. My issue is whether or not people will take the time to listen to the issues, ask intelligent questions and then make a decision that will begin to heal this country. When we begin to concentrate on our differences, thats when it all goes down hill.

  • Posted By: aainscough @ 12/10/2007 3:00:46 PM

    Comment: I really hate this election I mean we have a member of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day saints (ie. Mormon) an African American (ie. Black) and a Woman. So now we have everyone saying the Mormons are voting Romney the Blacks are voting Obama and the Woman are voting Hillary. This causes a major error in the whole political system, the fact that people should be doing there research and voting for candidates with similar ideas as themselves. I fear that we are going to end up with a president the majority doesn't want because the ignorant are going to vote ignorant.

  • Posted By: dcarter26 @ 12/10/2007 2:56:59 PM

    Comment: LAGirl, isn't Hillary a Dem???!!! Ron Paul has the right ideas - dont vote Democratic soley because of Bush. That isn't fair to America. I am a proud democrat voting Republican.

    Posted By: LaGirl @ 12/10/2007 12:21:11 PM
    Comment: That's why I'm a registered Republican. Democrates are hypocrates and racist. Nominate Hillary and hand the White House over to us for another 8 years.

  • Posted By: elf0321 @ 12/10/2007 2:43:59 PM

    Comment: The only person that Oprah cares about is Oprah. This woman could care less about Obama or America. And I don't need a TV star whatever to influence me how to vote..I guess she can do whatever she wants. But she doesn't have much credibilty.. she's a TV whatever. Hey listen people know when we have a candidate worth voting for black or white. Someone here mentioned Colin Powell,..now that guy I would have voted for.....But Obama give .me a break. This guy think he is a movie star...it's getting to his head. You can tell he is new to this. Obama is a fad and Oprah was a fad and trying to be fad again....sorry I am not into fad.

    • Posted By: A and W @ 12/23/2007 10:30:58 AM

      Comment: I read your comment to my husband because I was in complete and utter shock that someone out there was so ignorant. Do you build schools, donated computers to area Chicago kids who otherwise would not have any, provide scholarships to deserving kids in the U.S , and the list goes on and on. I am pretty sure you don't. I would be surprised if you even put a few cents in the local red kettle. Stop being narrow minded. That is why we are in the state we are in in this country! Why are we looking at coloror rel

  • Posted By: Sue46703 @ 12/10/2007 2:42:24 PM

    Comment: "Comment: Oprah could care less about Obama and Obama could care less about Oprah. They both have hidden agendas, her for her SELF and to be seen as this black Philanthropist......give me a break. If she really cares about black people, she can pick any ghettoes in any big cities from NY to L.A. and help those brothers out. Everything she does she'll have a stinking media there to pump that SELF again. "
    She's like Jesse Jackson and Al Sharpten - you never see them unless there's the promiseof a news crew near by.

  • Posted By: jessmate @ 12/10/2007 2:42:05 PM

    Comment: When you watch the video clip of Oprah and Obama together and he speaks to the enormity of the crowd having to do with her presence, he then acknowledges the risk that he realizes she is taking, endorsing him. Watch her face. It's clear that she is aware, as I'm sure she was prepared, for the backlash. This isn't something Oprah jumped into with any sort of flippant ignorance. She must have advisors and be prepared for the consequenses, good or bad, of this decision.
    That said... Obama being African American will be something that many will be proud of and want to support on top of the capalities and experience he may bring to the table. I think it's not fair to judge the supporters of this. Each moment the races come closer to an equal existance should be something to celebrate. I read some of these comments and I sit here in disbelief at some of the ignorant, petty comments that are being made. The negativity that some choose to cling to is sad, really. Your decisions should be fact based. Too many of us allow our emotions to cloud the fundamental things that should truly be driving our decision making process.

  • Posted By: burtonsmith @ 12/10/2007 2:40:46 PM

    Comment: To me, oratory is no substtitute for substance! Inded, from our history of national compaigns, let alone sermons, the former may be an opaque mask for the latter!

    Burton

  • Posted By: jerseykid @ 12/10/2007 2:39:11 PM

    Comment: Personally I don't think Obama is worried about that. If I were running for office and Oprah wanted to speak on my behalf - she would be welcome anytime.

  • Posted By: Sue46703 @ 12/10/2007 2:37:06 PM

    Comment: How can you assume that Oprah is endorsing Obama "because he's black"? Do you have the power to read minds?? She may have looked around and decided that Obama is the best candidate for the job. There's no tellng what's her motivation. He may not be your idea candidate but that doesn't mean he's not what someone else feels they want. That's why we can vote, so we can select the candidate that the majority wants. So the best way to to make your voice heard is to GET OUT THERE AND VOTE.
    Frankly I wish there was a "None of the Above Lever" because so many times I look at the candidates and can't find one that is what I want.
    I really wish that the canidates would do away with the idea that they need to tear all the othr candidates down and tell me what their plans and goals are for our country. When I'm hiring a new employee I don't expect them to sit in my office and tell me why the other candidates for the job won't work. I want to hear what they have done and how they plan to do the job they want hired for. What are they going to do to fix the mess the last employee (President) left behind?

  • Posted By: burtonsmith @ 12/10/2007 2:36:01 PM

    Comment: To me, oratory does not replace substance. Indeed, in the history of national campaigns, not to mention sermons in the church, the former can be a opaque mask of the latter!

    Burt

  • Posted By: elf0321 @ 12/10/2007 2:32:14 PM

    Comment: Oprah could care less about Obama and Obama could care less about Oprah. They both have hidden agendas, her for her SELF and to be seen as this black Philanthropist......give me a break. If she really cares about black people, she can pick any ghettoes in any big cities from NY to L.A. and help those brothers out. Everything she does she'll have a stinking media there to pump that SELF again. And Obama.... good luck. You know what his agenda is, this guys could care less about America. I could just see this two going at it: it's your world Oprah!! No baby it's your world Obama...No baby it's your world. Give me a break... I'm black and I'm proud. When we'll have a black candidate worth voting for we would know it. And we surely don't need a TV personality to convince us who he is. This "Obama' is not it.

  • Posted By: whatever1865 @ 12/10/2007 2:31:44 PM

    Comment: Where was this backlash when Spielburg endorsed Hilary? What is the difference? Why is it that most articles that are posted on msnbc spotlight authors who always give a negative spin to Obama's appearances. Could that be an edorsement in itself?

  • Posted By: angelica915 @ 12/10/2007 2:30:30 PM

    Comment: Did anyone catch Chris Rock at the Apollo introducing Obama to the audience at a fund raiser?. He made a joke about blacks supporting and voting for Clinton. He told the audience they'd be "real embarrassed" if Obama won and they had been backing Clinton instead. "You'd say, 'I had that white lady! What was I thinking," and Obama, who was standing right next to him said nothing.....now imagine any white comedian saying..."Why did I vote for the black man" all hell would have broken loose. so don't say it's not a racial thing, because it is.

  • Posted By: totherepublic.com @ 12/10/2007 2:24:28 PM

    Comment: elliot - " dr phil doesn't look black" - she knows how to make a buck my friend. dr phil, r. ray. It's business.

  • Posted By: J_Raines @ 12/10/2007 2:23:32 PM

    Comment: A cursory reading of the comments shows that America is indeed quite ignorant. I???ve read attacks on Obama ???because he???s a Muslim,??? attacks on Oprah for trying to be a ???Southerner,??? and even attacks on ???colored people??? because we have the sense to KNOW that America is all about race. Give me a break. I don???t know what Obama ???is???? He could be a Muslim, so what? Not all Muslims think alike, right? Of course not, just like all Americans don???t think alike, which is evident by the comments below. As for Oprah, she is a Southerner, with or without the drawl. Last time I checked Mississippi IS apart of the South. Now for the biggest lie Americans love to taut: Race doesn???t matter. Of course it does, why do you think we???ve never had a black (or African American for you PC folk) president. Do ???y???all??? (I???m a Southerner, too!) think that it is a coincidence that all of our presidents have been wealthy white men. Don???t be so na??ve.

  • Posted By: J_Raines @ 12/10/2007 2:22:59 PM

    Comment: A cursory reading of the comments shows that America is indeed quite ignorant. I???ve read attacks on Obama ???because he???s a Muslim,??? attacks on Oprah for trying to be a ???Southerner,??? and even attacks on ???colored people??? because we have the sense to KNOW that America is all about race. Give me a break. I don???t know what Obama ???is???? He could be a Muslim, so what? Not all Muslims think alike, right? Of course not, just like all Americans don???t think alike, which is evident by the comments below. As for Oprah, she is a Southerner, with or without the drawl. Last time I checked Mississippi IS apart of the South. Now for the biggest lie Americans love to taut: Race doesn???t matter. Of course it does, why do you think we???ve never had a black (or African American for you PC folk) president. Do ???y???all??? (I???m a Southerner, too!) think that it is a coincidence that all of our presidents have been wealthy white men. Don???t be so na??ve.

    • Posted By: MoMoMan @ 12/10/2007 2:36:35 PM

      Comment: Clearly you have no clue about the Muslim faith. It is impossible for a Muslim to lead America based on their beliefs of the West and our culture. Crack a book and see for yourself. Its more complex than " people think differently than other people" -

      • Posted By: J_Raines @ 12/10/2007 5:48:12 PM

        Comment: Muslims can help lead America. If we accept their tax dollars, then they deserve representation as well. Isn???t that why our ???forefathers??? revolted against the British monarchy? Get a clue please. Have you ever heard of Keith Ellison???our first Muslim Congressman. And get this, he took the oath of office on a Koran, the one owned by Thomas Jefferson.

  • Posted By: Vermonter @ 12/10/2007 2:21:22 PM

    Comment: Wow, Howard... Man-child?

    I was expecting this inside-the-beltway CW that the huge crowds generated over this weekend would be absurdly portrayed as somehow a negative for Obama. And I even expected the predictable "Oprah overshadowed Obama" take...

    But, to read a supposedly respected journalist stoop to such small-minded definitions of strength as you've done here, well that's just more than a little disappointing...

  • Posted By: totherepublic.com @ 12/10/2007 2:21:14 PM

    Comment: If oprah was endorsing a woman such as Hillary, I would not have a problem. I feel it is more important for her to help a black person than a woman.

    • Posted By: m115 @ 12/10/2007 3:28:40 PM

      Comment: How about maybe Oprah simply believes Obama is the better choice?? Why is that so hard for so many close-minded people to believe.
      I'm female and I'm not voting for Hillary, doesn't make me a traitor to women, just means I believe someone else is the better choice. I'm not going to vote for someone simply because they are they same gender as myself.
      I can't wait for the first female president but I want to make sure we put the best woman possible in that position and i do not think that is Hillary Clinton. Sounds like Oprah feels the same way.

  • Posted By: MoMoMan @ 12/10/2007 2:20:37 PM

    Comment: I heard that Ophra gave Obama a blumpkin? Is that true?

  • Posted By: lwanda @ 12/10/2007 2:18:52 PM

    Comment: Good candidacy should be determined by ideals such as honesty, character, determination and vision. Color of ones skin, parentage and such factors are trivial. Look at the previous Presidents and rate the performance of their administrations on the basis of the color of their skin and parentage and be honest with your vote. Barack Obama, regardless of his race, parentage, experience in office etc represents hope and future. America is destined to change how it is governed. Do the other candidates espouse this in their talk, representation?

  • Posted By: r_lecuyer @ 12/10/2007 2:16:42 PM

    Comment: Here's another one... fresh off the press... for all of you still saying Obama is Muslim... so ridiculous...
    http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/22181497/

  • Posted By: littlemary sunshine @ 12/10/2007 2:16:17 PM

    Comment: Wake up!
    The only reason Oprah does anything is a black thing. She is the most racial person on the planet, next to Sharpton

  • Posted By: littlemary sunshine @ 12/10/2007 2:14:56 PM

    Comment: bbaker wake up - the only reason Oprah is endorsing hhim is because he is black. She is the most racist person I've come across. everything she does is racial

    • Posted By: reddfoxx27 @ 12/10/2007 2:34:02 PM

      Comment: If she is racist then why is her predominant audience white. What is going on with you? How do you even come up with that?

    • Posted By: ElliottMMVII @ 12/10/2007 2:20:00 PM

      Comment: Not much "sunshine" in you, huh. I have to go with Baker on this one. I'll say it again - Dr. Phil doesn't look black to me. (and even if Obama was Asian, he's still an idiot.)

  • Posted By: ProsAndCons @ 12/10/2007 2:14:23 PM

    Comment: Really don't see how his religion matters?! If you don't like what he stands for then don't vote for him but if you do then vote! Simple as. Arguing about whether he is is muslin or not is ridiculous! It is narrowminded of people to lump all muslims in the same category- they are not all terrorists or have contributed to the war that is going on. Come on people!

  • Posted By: ProsAndCons @ 12/10/2007 2:13:52 PM

    Comment: Really don't see how his religion matters?! If you don't like what he stands for then don't vote for him but if you do then vote! Simple as. Arguing about whether he is is muslin or not is ridiculous! It is narrowminded of people to lump all muslims in the same category- they are not all terrorists or have contributed to the war that is going on. Come on people!

  • Posted By: r_lecuyer @ 12/10/2007 2:12:55 PM

    Comment: uh, yeah, Kate... this post goes for you too: its scary to me that there are people in America, with all of our opportunities for researching and discovering the reality of matters, who still blindly accept spam emails and tabloid media as undisputed truth... maybe these links will help:

    http://www.cnn.com/2007/POLITICS/01/22/obama.madrassa/
    http://www.snopes.com/politics/obama/muslim.asp
    http://brainshrub.com/content/view/43/9/
    http://thinkonthesethings.wordpress.com/2007/11/02/barack-obama-refused-to-say-the-pledge-of-allegiance-youve-been-played-for-a-daggone-fool/

    Don't get me wrong... everyone is entitled to their opinion... Its just hard to take a biased, uneducated opinion too seriously...

    • Posted By: mswhyte @ 12/10/2007 8:29:49 PM

      Comment: The Pledge is also not said by Jehovah Witnesses does that mean that they are not loyal to their homeland? I haven't said it since 1969. That's when it became apparent to me that this nation was not willing to accept me as a native born citizen. We (black people) have been builders of this nation and have given our lives since the American Revolutionary War~and it is a matter of fact that we have not been well received. I don't care if Obama says the pledge or not. There is a habitual liar by the last name of Bush that probably does so frequently but that does not make me believe he is pro the entire citizenship. A real patriot sees the flaws and is not afraid to stand up and move to correct them. There are numerous patriots in this nation that have been marked as non-supportive because we won't say yes to every insane thing that is done by our government.

  • Posted By: poqtuck @ 12/10/2007 2:12:13 PM

    Comment: If this is all America has to look forward to, Heaven Help all of US>

  • Posted By: r_lecuyer @ 12/10/2007 2:11:30 PM

    Comment: Wow suzette, its scary to me that there are people in America, with all of our opportunities for researching and discovering the reality of matters, who still blindly accept spam emails and tabloid media as undisputed truth... maybe these links will help:

    http://www.cnn.com/2007/POLITICS/01/22/obama.madrassa/
    http://www.snopes.com/politics/obama/muslim.asp
    http://brainshrub.com/content/view/43/9/
    http://thinkonthesethings.wordpress.com/2007/11/02/barack-obama-refused-to-say-the-pledge-of-allegiance-youve-been-played-for-a-daggone-fool/

    Don't get me wrong... everyone is entitled to their opinion... Its just hard to take a biased, uneducated opinion too seriously...

  • Posted By: BBaker2286 @ 12/10/2007 2:10:56 PM

    Comment: All of you racist people saying that Oprah only endorses black people, you are wrong. She endorses causes that she feels connected to, whether the front man for that person is black, white,gay, or whatever. Oprah does not rub people the wrong way, she is successful because she is classy, articulant, generous,gracious, the list can go on and on. Stop pushing your negative thoughts and insecurities off on Oprah and own up to your own prejudice and closed/ small mindedness!

    • Posted By: ElliottMMVII @ 12/10/2007 2:15:12 PM

      Comment: Dr. Phil doesn't look black to me...

  • Posted By: BBaker22 @ 12/10/2007 2:10:08 PM

    Comment: All of you racist people saying that Oprah only endorses black people, you are wrong. She endorses causes that she feels connected to, whether the front man for that person is black, white,gay, or whatever. Oprah does not rub people the wrong way, she is successful because she is classy, articulant, generous,gracious, the list can go on and on. Stop pushing your negative thoughts and insecurities off on Oprah and own up to your own prejudice and closed/ small mindedness!

  • Posted By: r_lecuyer @ 12/10/2007 2:08:21 PM

    Comment: Wow suzette, its scary to me that there are people in America, with all of our opportunities for researching and discovering the reality of matters, who still blindly accept spam emails and tabloid media as undisputed truth... maybe these links will help:

    http://www.cnn.com/2007/POLITICS/01/22/obama.madrassa/
    http://www.snopes.com/politics/obama/muslim.asp
    http://brainshrub.com/content/view/43/9/
    http://thinkonthesethings.wordpress.com/2007/11/02/barack-obama-refused-to-say-the-pledge-of-allegiance-youve-been-played-for-a-daggone-fool/

    Don't get me wrong... everyone is entitled to their opinion... Its just hard to take a biased, uneducated opinion too seriously...

  • Posted By: q_slang @ 12/10/2007 2:05:41 PM

    Comment: Obama doesn'tjust represent blacks..He represens white America( his mom is a caucasian), African-Americans, Immigrant( Dad was Kenyan)..Itsnot always abot experienc, its also abpout competence!

  • Posted By: betterthanthat @ 12/10/2007 2:04:09 PM

    Comment: Opraha should stick to what she does BEST is...her show! I think it is OPHRA that is "star-struck". She is like having a school-girl crush ...looking up at Obama! The only thing these two have in common is the letter "O"!

  • Posted By: kate201z @ 12/10/2007 2:03:54 PM

    Comment: Remember people Obama is a MUSLIM.......who are we at war against?????? Think about it... is that someone YOU want running the USA? I certainly don't. I don't feel he's someone you can trust. He's a cameoleon - he changes his 'colors' too much. We need someone strong, NOT someone who has to hide behind a skirt.

    • Posted By: Mike2k7 @ 12/10/2007 2:11:35 PM

      Comment: You are a sick and contaminated xenopbobe. what are you afraid of?
      Not only are you ignorant, you are not smart enough to realize that this country and this present government still does a lot of business with the Muslim world. First of Obama, was a Muslim and converted to Christianity. But let's assume he is a Muslim, maybe that's all we need to get a better foreign policy and proper dialog with the Muslim world. Discrimination and ignorance will not get you far.....NEVER!!!!

  • Posted By: mtthw @ 12/10/2007 2:03:15 PM

    Comment: Ohbama lets give THEM a run for THEIR money?? What kind of racial comment is that? If a white man had made that kind of statement all hell would break lose.

    • Posted By: ElliottMMVII @ 12/10/2007 2:09:36 PM

      Comment: Racism lives because people want it to. It's sensationalized by the media. People spend money to read/see/hear the media. People like to fight. Racism will be around for a long time. Go into your house, avoid your neighbor, and know that everyone is out to get you.

      What would it be like if people actually got smart and broke the cycle? Happy but boring? Or is it better to be sad but excited? Gosh, tough choice.

  • Posted By: totherepublic.com @ 12/10/2007 2:00:11 PM

    Comment: scholar I was refering to obama not oprah as rookie

  • Posted By: pinkrockafella @ 12/10/2007 1:59:56 PM

    Comment: America is so Hollywood. He must lack confidence if he needs Oprah to lead in for him. The average American knows more about Britney Spears/Lindsay Lohan and Paris Hilton than they do about the people who are making decisions for us behind the scenes. They invite celebrities in the campaign b/c they know normal political speeches bore (most) of us. I am 25 and it scares me to think about who will be our "president" in 10 - 15 or 20 years. People dont watch the small debates leading up to the final showdown. We log on the internet, Google the candidates name and let some CNN or MSNBC report influence our voting. Shame on us and our evolvong love for celebrity companionship.

    • Posted By: ElliottMMVII @ 12/10/2007 2:10:45 PM

      Comment: SO TRUE!!! Great post!

  • Posted By: pinkrockafella @ 12/10/2007 1:59:51 PM

    Comment: America is so Hollywood. He must lack confidence if he needs Oprah to lead in for him. The average American knows more about Britney Spears/Lindsay Lohan and Paris Hilton than they do about the people who are making decisions for us behind the scenes. They invite celebrities in the campaign b/c they know normal political speeches bore (most) of us. I am 25 and it scares me to think about who will be our "president" in 10 - 15 or 20 years. People dont watch the small debates leading up to the final showdown. We log on the internet, Google the candidates name and let some CNN or MSNBC report influence our voting. Shame on us and our evolvong love for celebrity companionship.

    • Posted By: labrat07 @ 12/10/2007 2:48:57 PM

      Comment: I dont personally care for Oprah but i can see where she is helpful to him. Hillary Clinton draws much of her support from less educated women ( ie. I dont know most of which she stands for but I am going to vote for her because she is a woman too). Oprah cuts directly into that base of support and is arguably more popular. Even if it causes some to look at Obama and rethink who they will pull the lever for come primary time, it will carve into her votes. Not to say that some ppl may shy away from him for the endorsement but in the end will probably be a net gain.

  • Posted By: totherepublic.com @ 12/10/2007 1:57:13 PM

    Comment: truth 504- "just happens to be black" your kidding right? maybe you should go back to work.

  • Posted By: kyle68 @ 12/10/2007 1:56:26 PM

    Comment: I wondered how long it would take "news" sources like NBC, MSNBC, and CNN to panic when the annointing of Hillary is in jeopardy. The Clintons' have to be seething right now. How could a elitest such as Oprah not think Hillary was the end-all. Watch the next few weeks while the Clinton machine attempts to discredit and smear any and all who would stand in their way of becoming the Chavez of America.

  • Posted By: ansalan @ 12/10/2007 1:56:04 PM

    Comment: Actors, musicians and other celebrities have endorsed candidates in similar ways. Oprah just happens to be a bigger star. Nevertheless, I believe that people will vote for whomever stands for the ideals they believe in. Oprah can use her star power to bring people out to actually hear what Obama has to say. After that, it is up to each person to decide whether he will lead the country in a direction that they support.