what is the problem even if Barrack obama is muslim or not?Why has the religion Islam,ppl belonging to that religion been not only genarlized by the majority of ignorant people but also been the source of hatred?
do all you people really have such closed minds as to thinking all muslims r terrorist

sarah, manchester, England

xIf real people would spend only half the time finding out what is and has been happening in this country instead of trying to find out or create false rumors and comments about Mr Obama, they would be doing some good for their selves and others in the USA and perhaps find a solution to problems .

ron martin, rose city, USA

I have not been following like I should,...mostly out of fear of what is to come. So I hear that Barak is in the running now with Cain. Time for a funny,....We got Barak, whos last name is Obama which sounds eerily like Osama,...middle name is Hussien. Then we got Cain,...like Cain and Abel.

Amber, columbia, usa

Please provide proof for your line:

"Obama.. was raised as a Christian by his white mother "

This is new news.

Obama's mother, grandmother and grandfather were atheists and would not have raised Obama as a Christian.

John M, NYC, USA

I don't think we should be pointing any fingers unless we get some true evidence that he is muslim. And as for hilary clinton, i love her plan to make hospitals the way they used to be, FREE. Do you have any idea how many people die because insurance policies bring them down and they do not recieve any medical treatment? I say, bring down insurance companies! Make life easier!

Nydia, virginia beach,

holy war is an oxymoron

salim, d.c., d.c.

Actually, if you look at all of the founding fathers, most of them have affiliations with Christianity. Not "some of them". So yes, in response to your comment, this country was in large founded by white, christian men. And assuming you are a white male speaking, I think you should recognize the numerous amount of privileges you have and that unfortunately racism still exists as well as anti-semitism and anti-muslim sentiments. Otherwise, I completely agree.

This however is not my point. It's not so much that "religion doesn't matter". Ideally, it shouldn't. (not an oxymoron, an opinion) It's that ever since 9/11, negative stereotypes towards Muslims have increased and thus, god forbid, if Barak Obama was "Muslim", ignorant people would assume he would somehow bring about terrorism.

Obviously, I think as a nation we need to look at these issues more closely because issues like racism, sexism, and anti-islamic sentiments still exist today!

Alana, Los Angeles,

religious beliefs do not matter? LOL! nice one. Since when? The very nature of true religion asserts that one's beliefs DO matter. In almost every religion around the world one's spirit and fundamental beliefs are believed to be the motivating and guiding force of life. "Religious beliefs do not matter," is an oxymoron. Yes they do. We all know that they do. When push comes to shove that's what you're left with. So Christian or Muslim, let's get real.... Obama's religious beliefs DO matter.

Melissa, Rocky Mount, NC

or deist, pagan, or agnostic. We use the words they wrote and the documents they left to determine how to operate our government, not their personal beliefs. Just because some of the founding fathers had Christian leanings does not mean that this government was intended to espouse Christian views and morals. This country was founded by many men, some of who happened to be Christian - not "this country was founded by Christian men." There is a world of difference between having a religion and founding a country, and founding a country based on your religion.
I could easily turn that argument on its head anyway, and say that "because some of the founding fathers believed in slavery, obviously it's okay to write slavery into law." Or how about "because the founding fathers were all white, obviously this country was intended to be a country where the laws are biased towards white males."

Tony V, Berkeley, America

Obama would make a great president, regardless of his religious beliefs. Its coming to the point now where rationalism takes a back seat to religiosity in the USA and that's sad. The European Union is being threatened by the onslaught of radical islam. If the American congress can't even see evangelical Christianity posing a similar threat, I think we're all in trouble. Because as anyone knows, America polices the world.

Tony V, Berkeley, America

I believe that America was founded on a Christian foundation. This foundation should be supported. The rumors real or not about Barack's religious affiliation should be researched. If Barack were Muslim or has had a past affiliation with Islam I would not vote for him. The free world does not need to be led by a man whose religion is not about freedom.
America is tolerant of its Muslim population. Mosques are built and they live in utter freedom to practice their religion openly.
Christians cannot go into Islamic run countries and build churches and practice their faith openly like Muslims do in America. Infact they would be killed.
Until I start seeing more freedom in Islamic run countries that are governed by Islam will I then change my attitude about the religion.
I don't have issues with the people but with the religion especially with the extreme branch of Islam.
The tower of Babel fell for a reason.

Sebastian, Seattle,

WHO CARES IF HE IS MUSLIM OR NOT!!! Not all Muslims are terrorists!!! This is just a stereotype held by ignorant Americans! SHAME ON YOU ALL!

And yes, even though he is biracial if he chooses to identify as being black then he is black! So stop saying he isn't!

I just think its sad how he has to keep conveying he is a Christian..it just shows you the white,male, christian dominated society of America.

Alana, los angeles,

I am a PROUD Muslim and I have something important to say to everyone who has no knowledge of Islam.

a) Islam is ALL ABOUT FREEDOM!
b) We believe in Christ as much as Christians do however we don’t give anyone as much importance as god because there’s one god and GOD has no affiliated Partners. Therefore if we were to say God is affiliated with another person it will no longer be a monotheistic religion!
c) Obama being a politician has absolutely nothing to do with Islam. If he says he’s not a Muslim, then he’s not. AND NO Muslims cannot go around killing individuals who have left the religion. That’s not the way to deal with anything.
We should leave religion out of politics. If Obama said he is not committed with a certain religion we should take his word, because that’s a strong comment to make!
And for those who believe that Christ has nothing to do with Islam, please research on what Islam is. We believe and love Christ, we DESPISE violence, and we love and respect others beliefs.

Aliya, Dallas,

All I can say is that Canada and America were founded based on Christianity. If that is taken out of the very essence of the foundation of these governments, God help us all as there will be hard times ahead that we as two nations have never seen.

Todd, Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada

I'm a so called Muslim born (from Iran). But now I don't have any particular affiliation with Islam or any other religion! I think Christianity is in many case a better religion to follow esp for a politician. but what would you call me? a Muslim? I know in dept of my heart that I don't believe in what other Muslims believe! so why you debate this much about Obama's faith?! when he says he's not a Muslim HE IS NOT! (thus he doesn't believe in apostasy rules of it either!)

fater, delft, the netherlands

The problem isn't whether Obama has converted to Christianity or not.

Islam does not permit Muslims to convert. The penalty for renouncing Islam (apostasy) is death.

Obama did not have a choice. He was born to a Muslim father. In Islamic law, he is a Muslim. His father may have "renounced" Islam, but Islam regards that as apostasy,

Islam is not like Christianity, which requires a person to commit him/herself to Christ, in order to be admitted to membership of the Church.

Similarly, Islam does not recognize secular laws, so that our right to freedom of religion (or none) does not excuse someone who renounces Islam.

It is odd that no Muslim has posted on this subject.
DC

DCordes, Lake Worth, Florida

The allegation he was 'born a Muslim' is false - or, to put it another way, only half true if you consider his mother was an athiest. And in any event, what relevancy does his parents' beliefs, or his status at birth, have to do with the conduct and values he demonstrates now?

To put it another way, my twin brother was born jaundiced, but he ain't yellow now. And it would seems decidely un-Christian of me if I were to accuse him of being secretly yellow now on the basis that he once was, through not fault of his own.

You might like to have a look at this, too:

http://urbanlegends.about.com/library/bl_barack_obama_muslim.htm

VKW, Kaikohe, NZ

There's 2 Christian Ministers in Dallas ,Texas and they were raised in the Muslim faith once they became Christians they had to denounce all association with their families and have no more contact with them .If Obama is truly a Christian why then does he still have associatin with his Muslim and Islam families? I like what he has to say but I do not trust him something is not right .

Brenda, Dallas, Tx

Christianity is not an ethnicity. People aren't born Christians. You become a Christian when you decide that Jesus is the human embodiment of god, the perfect person. You vow to live your life the way he did. This means peace, love, caring, and yearning to make everyone's lives better, especially poor and homeless people. In fact, Jesus mentions the issue of loving the poor more than he mentions any other issue. So shouldn't the real Christian candidate be one who professes an ideaology of love, peace, compassion, and goodwill to the poor, whether next door or across the world? It seems like people get all worked up over making sure candidates are "christian enough" without really understanding what being a Christian means.

Ian Lincoln, Nashville, Tennessee

http://www.tucc.org

This is the link to Obamas "christian" church. See if it hits you the wrong way, as it did me.

Who is this man? All I know for sure is that there are millions of people who, like me, feel with something deep inside us, that there is something under the surface that seems....sinister.

Laura, St. Louis, MO

There is something very creepy about Obama. I feel there is some serious things that he is hiding. He may be a good cheerleader and stuff but the keys to the White House contain the key to the nuclear arsenal of the USA. Although I have to admit, I like Obama, I definetly DO NOT TRUST HIM.

Dan, Toronto, Canada

so to be a muslim these days you have to be a secret muslim?..whats one of those anyway.....to pronounce your faith you have to be confronted and then... accused of being a muslim??? LIKE ITS DIRTY OR UNCOUTH...im afraid the word nazis springs to mind because thats what happened with the jews....just think about what some people are advocating....we are heading for another world war in case you hadnt realised already....think for a second just one second if somewhere right at this moment an extremist group has obtained a nuclear or atomic weapon....it could be from the former ussr where the knowledge and materials can be obtained...what if it detonated in your city, your friend or families city...there a history of acrimony between the us and many countries....who you going to blame..what if they use the extremists as the gun and supply the bullet...believe me the government has thought about it...did we in the uk ever contemplate what happened on the buses or trains?..or 9/11?

adi, sheffield, uk

I think that the American people are well advised to carefully consider the cultural and religious practices that are employed, or even tolerated by their political candidates. In these modern times we are too frequently force-fed the insidiously destructive (and"politically correct") message that all aspects of other cultures deserve respect and should be embraced.
The extreme political left would like us all to forget that America is a nation built under God upon Christian values, and there is nothing wrong with the American people excercising their right to select a candidate that will protect those values! In Ontario where I live the issue of allowing Shiite law practicses to be accepted as lawfully binding was voted on by politicians without a word to the constituants until AFTER THE FACT. At the financial institute where I worked I was threatened that I could lose my job for saying "Merry Christmas" instead of "Season's Greetings"
Just is something to consider when voting

Jessica, Ontario, Canada

Even if Obama is not a loyal muslim, most likely he has sympathy for muslim. I am not sure which side is he going to take under some critical situations. Should we give him the benefit of doubt?

rich, torrence, Ca

so what if he is a Muslim??? That's what's wrong with this country today How quickly we forget what happened just a few short years ago on 911. This country was founded on Christian values. This country has been blesssed because of our belief in God. If we let that go then we might as well give up because without God, we are another 3rd world country.

James, Riesel, Texas

to those of you who believe that Obama has to prove his Christian religion: He has proved this. He was raised Christian by his mother, he only knew his Muslim father for two years after his birth, attends a Church of Christ, says the Pledge of Allegiance to the AMERICAN flag, was swore in on the BIBLE, and has absolutely NO ties to any Muslim organization. Get your facts straight before making accusation! He is by far the best candidate for the American presidency!!!!

Jack, House Springs,

Our country should be concerned with whomever is chosen as our next president. I would hope that Christians would want someone who puts God first and foremost. I am afraid that our society is more concerned with foreign relations and economy than we are our religious beliefs. What does it all matter in the end......OUR SAVIOUR! Let's remain true to our christianity and remember that when we vote in November. Clinton and Obama are only interested in the power, not the people. Listen to them when they speak, do you truly believe their convictions. No one person, but GOD, can change this world. They cannot prevent war, death, financial burden or any other facade that may be deemed to happen. Let's all pray that our next leader is a true believer in the one and only leader Jesus Christ.

Karen, Clinton, North Carolina

wow, i would have thought the USA would have moved on now..

So what if he was a muslim??

its 2008, not 1958 !!

mabs, Burnley, England

The fact that after 9-11 the Muslim faith has been severely questions in the U.S. is not at all out of line. Obama in fact has not on T.V. slauted or show his respect for the Amercian flag. Is that because he's a closet Muslim? I don't think so, but I do think it is a question he must answer so we can move on. I personally do not believe that this country will vote in a person who has ties to the Muslim's right now. Mr. Obama say's and appears to be as good a canadate as we have to choose from but he has to prove to the people of this country his dedication and beliefs in our lifestyle and that he will protect that belief.

George, Canandaigua, New York

For those who are downing the U.S.A need to worry about there own country! If the U.S.A is so bad why does other countries come crying to us to get them out of a jam. The reason why some of us don't want a muslim president is because they can't run their own country. In America you don't have to worry about car bombings because of your beliefs. Yes we have crime but does't all countries! U.S.A is a christian nation, under God a.k.a (Jesus Christ). If you don't have the Holy Spirit, you won't see the pearly gates. Those downing Bill Clinton, need to get a grip. Bill Clinton was one of the best Presidents this country ever had and yes I agree that he let Hillary down. But that is none of our business. That is between God (Jesus), Bill and Hillary. Are you perfect? Do you not sin? Anyway most of us want the Man or Woman that is running for Office to belive in Jesus Christ. That is someone who has a connection to God (Jesus Christ).

Lisa Chittavong`, Nashville, Tn

Whether Obama is Muslim or Christian is not an issue. What is an issue is - Does he plege allegiance - does he salute our countrys' flag and will he defend our country against terrorists whether the said terrorists are muslim or otherwise? I think his actions speak louder than any words he can say. I have yet to see him pledge or salute - he usually ducks his head.

Lori Kisch, Louiston, mi

"why is Obama trying to cover up as much as possible his relation and his upbringing that is rooted in that religion and culture"

Jerry (Miami, Florida), get your facts right. Obama was brought up by his Christian mother, so by saying that he's not a Muslim, he is not denying his upbringing.

Rowan, London, England

One minute you hear Muslims are not integrating in the western world- the next minute when a supposed Muslim runs an election campaign its smeared in the papers- make your mind up people.

Sam, Manchester,

What kind of country is it where someone ACCUSES someone else of being a muslim? And where that person feels he has to defend himself of that accusation?

Bizarre racism. Has anyone thought that with one black parent and one white parent, one Christian parent and one Muslim parent, he might actually be capable of healing divides rather than creating them?

The people do indeed get the rulers they deserve. God help us.

Voland, Caen, France

this notion of 'you'r a muslim if you'r born to muslim parents' is a load of rubbish! what if you are born to non-mulsim parents but convert later in life to islam? does that mean the convertion is a waste of time?

Obama only has a muslim father who was not there for th best part of his life, he follows Christianity and thats exactly what he is and where his faith lays! So, why is it thats this is being blown out of proportion? Clinton is crafty and this is typical political tactics! WISE UP!

Kiran, London,

I think this whole debate is totally deplorable. Surely the response to this accusation that Obama is a muslim is 'so what?'.

Isn't the US supposed to be the land of the free, with any US born citizen allowed to achieve the highest office. Are we saying today that being a muslim disqualifies him from running for president? This whole debate shows the true nature of racism and anti-muslim feeling endemic in the US.

Is it a surprise that the muslim masses distrust the motives of the US when such a debate takes place?

Obby, Dubai, UAE

look like being a moslem in the world is a disgrace for Obama electionwise, while in the day of judgement Obama will begging to be a moslem.

January, Maryland, USA

Shame on Americans. They boast of domocracy and export democracy to other countries. But they are at the bottom level as they are short minded and ther heart is rotten and filled with full of hatred .. They cant even think of a Muslim becoming the President of America. Shame on you Christian America

Ash, Kerala, India

I am extremely digusted in the way this so called smear campaign is blantantly implying that being a Muslim is a shameful and negative thing. It is such a shame that people continually imply that all Muslims are terrorists or people who support such attroctites. I am a Muslim and I am proud to be one, I am not a bad mined person and I do not adovocate violence in any way, whether it is committed by a Christian, Muslim or Jew. The vast majority of Muslims share the same view. Whenever a person commits a crime their religion is never emphasised unless they are Muslim. This has to stop. People must cease painting all Muslims with the same brush, it is unfair and does not make any sense. Others should think before they make a rash decision and not immediately believe all the lies and hatred which are directed towards Muslims. Those who kill others are not Muslims they are murderers just like any other person who goes by any other religion,

Sarah, London,

Ok, So what if Obama was muslim, suddenly we are all terrorists. Quite frankly, it is disgraceful how people who are suppose to be well educated enought to preside a country and make such cheap, petty allegations. Muslims, Islam is a religion it has nothing to do with terrorism and apparently those idiots have not learnt that yet. Why do we not discuss the facts that so many terrorist attacks were caused by white people, why do we never hear that? It is a disgrace to live in a world where our leaders are idiots and has no common sense.

Farzana Beeharry, Paris, France

According to Islam Mr Barakat Hussein Obama’s paternal religion defines his faith. I have no doubt that Mr Obama espouses the Christian Religion. If elected he could very well overcompensate and be tougher on Muslims. On the other hand …….???
What I find confusing is that Mr Obama defines himself as black, when he is also 50% white.

Some US folks accuse us of interfering in their politics. But the President is the leader of the West let us not forget that.

It’s a pity that Mr Obama by virtue of what he defines himself has unwittingly introduced ethnicity in the Presidential campaign. This will no doubt help to destabilise this bastion of democracy.

People seem starry eyed about his credentials. But from here he appears as one of the many highly skilled motivational speakers that are so unique to the USA.

Akbar, Cambridge , UK

I should imagine that this is some more slander in the name of politics rather than personal matters. I'm sure there are plenty of extremist Christians, NRA members etc who are secretly relieved that a black Christian man with allegiance to Africa (what a refreshing change) is out if front of them.

Frances Roberson, Croydon, UK

Unbelievable. Reminiscent of Hitler using the political process to denounce Jews. Let's face it, probably none of the major European countries (Turkey exempted) would vote in a muslim leader. However, they would maintain the appearance of religious freedom. But to come out and try to insinuate that one religion is superior or inferior to another is repulsive. Muslim Citizens have human rights and futures too, so treat them with respect. How low can people go?

Marello, Coventry,

Khan of London
Obviously you are confused as to who is a muslim, the definition is clear in the Quran & is contrary to what you said, at least half of it.

S Ahmed, Cairo,

Race, religion, sex... they're all divisive ways to label someone. We are all people trying to make it in the world. It's the strength of character and the ability to lead that will sway how I vote.

Hillary didn't even cry when Bill had an affair. (My heart would be broken.) Do you really think crying over a tough race is gonna cause me to vote for Hillary?

Kimberly, Tempe, AZ, USA

The little you know about the religion of Islam. I think we forgot what religion the terrorists from 9-11 were. And yes I know that most Muslims are not radical extremists. But then why is Obama trying to cover up as much as possible his relation and his upbringing that is rooted in that religion and culture?

Jerry, Miami, Florida

"Mr Obama, seeking to become America's first black president..."

How's he going to do that then? Jump in a time machine, be born to a different mother, a black one? For crying out loud, you've just said in the first few paragraphs how his mother is white, so why do you perpetuate this insane label of him as black? He's HALF WHITE, HALF BLACK.

HE IS NOT BLACK!!!

James , London, UK

I'd be much happier if he denied he was black, and encouraged everyone else to stop perpetrating this lie. He is 50% white, and 50% black. I am far more disturbed by anyone, he and his supporters - that denies half of who they are. I find that repugnant. Is he ashamed of being as much white as he is black? Or is he, like everyone else who assumes if you have any black ancestry in you, you're black - just stupid, factually vauous and attempting to hijack some cause that they're not part of?

Helen E., London, UK

It is incredible to believe that in this day and age we are worried about someone is "supposed to be according to those that are in competition with him" and make no mistake the presidential primaries are like the playoffs before the big game. If we start looking at a person's record whether it be Obama, Clinton or any of the other candidates and quit listening to the rhetoric put out by the opposing team ( psych out time) we become a better informed voter. Too many times I have heard " I voted fro the monster I knew rather than the one I didn't." We have a responsibility to ourselves and our children to make informed decisions about who we select to run our country. I can only imagine how many of us would vote for Obama if all we had to go by to make our selection was a list of the candidates' record ...no picture...no preformed opinions based upon media and campaign hype. Cathy Manton, MI

Cathy Kreger, Manton, MI

So if you have parents that are Muslim you are muslim? That is total nonesense. If people judge us by our parents' religion then god (figure of speech) help us.

In my opinion all these religions are man made, if people want to practice a religion then they should keep it home and in their own circles and not let it interfere in the mainstream community at large.

However, sadly, i don't think Mr Obama will win the nomination let alone the presidency cos along with these religious slurs and his race(though mixed) cos the US is not ready to vote in a capable non-white person in as president yet, maybe in 20 years or so. Shame though because i think Mr Obama represents the breath of fesh air that most people are gasping for.

Jack M, London, UK

Are you sure his name isn't really Osama? Osama Hussein?

Jonathan, Tel-Aviv, Israel

Shows again the slow growth in power of the religious right in America - call me a simple European who believes that chuch and state should be separate, but who cares if he is mislim, christian, hindu or jew, or hopefully an athesist, as long as he can do a good job...

Simon Albion, London, UK

Dear readers,

I hope everyone does not believe the comments posted here. Research the questions you have, use reliable sources, and be guided by common sense.

Mrs. Dawe, Malvern, PA

"Mr Obama, seeking to become America's first black president..."

How's he going to do that then? Jump in a time machine, be born to a different mother, a black one? For crying out loud, you've just said in the first few paragraphs how his mother is white, so why do you perpetuate this insane label of him as black? He's HALF WHITE, HALF BLACK.

HE IS NOT BLACK!!!

Tom Franklin, London, UK

Keith Bentham - prove to me God is fictitious? In fact, if you took the time to read the bible, you would see there is not 1 thing prophesied so far that has not happened. I believe that the remaining prophesies will also happen - and believe it or not, things such as indicated here - with potential for increased pressure will come from the east, and alliances will be formed for one world power - are in fact all predicted in the bible. Coincidence? I think not. Oh, and there's a great passage in the bible too about one man and the deceit he will tell people...you should read it some time.

Al B, Ayrshire, UK

obama, yes you are, getting into this race you knocked Edwards out of the rece, he is a hundred times better then you. Tony

tony sacco, cape charles, virginia

His association with Trinity United Christian Church in Chicago, under the pastorship of Jeremiah Wright Jr., who presented the Trumpeter award in 2007 to Louis Farrakhan is very troubling. The argument that Obama is "Christian" is suspect - if honoring a man like Farrakhan is what this church represents. You say he can't be held to what the pastor does? Are you kidding? Don't you think in twenty years' time, Obama would have found another church if he took such issue with Wright and the controversial nature of their Black Values System, allegiance and non-negotiable contract with Africa? Sorry, but this speaks volumes of Obama's character. Stop with the free passes, people. This is deplorable. Sean Hannity and Richard Cohen are the only two journalists with the guts to bring it up, so far. But wait 'til Rove gets his teeth into this. You 'aint seen nothin' yet.

BGS, Beaumont, TX

Muhammad Ali didn't announce his conversion to Islam until after he won the Heavyweight championship.

Jerry, Bismarck, Ar

Charlie in Seattle,

I fear that someone has been feeding you incorrect information about Mormons. Mormon worship services, which occur in chapels, have always been open to the public. If you are referring to temples, yes, those are closed to the public, but there is really nothing for the public to see, since no worship services occur in temples. Mormon temples are for ordinance work, such as baptisms, marriages, and the sealing of families together for eternity. Unless someone is participating in one of those ordinances, there is no reason to be there.

With regard to the subservience of women, you definitely are misinformed. Apparently you don't know very many mormon women. Not a subservient crowd, and that is NOT a principle taught in the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. My understanding is that Huckabee issued a statement a few years ago about women being subservient to their husbands. Definitely not the mormons.

Craig, West Lafayette, IN

I'm surprised that there are many it seems who care about the faith of the candidate when it really makes no difference. The US president will take decisions that are against basic tenets of any faith so why the worry?

S Ahmed, Cairo,

Why did Hillary demur when the moderator asked whether terrorists would test Obama more than her? That's absolutely a reasonable inference.

By many accounts, Nikita Khrushchev came away from the 1961 Vienna summit thinking that John F. Kennedy was a neophyte -- and subsequently decided to test the new president in Cuba and Berlin.

Would Obama similarly acquit himself? Perhaps. But query whether today we can even afford a learning curve that, in the 1960s at least, allowed for a Bay of Pigs.

And JFK was much more of a realist than Obama. In his inaugural, JFK spoke of passing the torch to a new generation, but also noted that said generation was tempered by war -- something Obama omits. JFK campaigned on the missile gap. He had commanded a submarine in the war, and his father of course was a legendary, perhaps even infamous, diplomat. He was much more John McCain than Barack Obama.

I could very easily see someone like Vladimir Putin testing Obama by, say, invading Georgia.

Chris Stone, Mountain View, USA/California

Who cares what his religion is?

As long as he does a good job, that should be all that matters.

This has gone a long way to re-affirm my thoughts about the pointlessness of religion, and the problems it creates where none existed before.

Darren, Norwich,

The real issue is insularity in the USA. Frequently on my travels I do meet individuals who don't really undersatnd other faiths. I can advise you taht many Hispanic individuals have Islamic derived names (e.g. Ismael) and this does not raise an eyebrow. The averaage American in the street does not generally go out of their way to be thoughtless but in reality has not had much religious instruction or education in matters such as world affairs such as we might see in Europe. Turning to the earlier correspondents comment in relation to Barak Obamas choice of church - I think it is quite true that with a pastor who eschews black seperatism and his confirmed connections to Louis Farrakahan (Quoted on Trumpet as 'Honorable') I would want to distance myself. Once the US press look at the wider implications of this congregations message it will leed to some discomfort. If Romney showed himself worshiping at a church allied to White supremicists I am sure the liberal lobby would be talking!

Steve G, Ruislip, UK

I am not an Obama supporter; in fact I am a register republican. It is interested that NBC went to court to prevent Kucinich appearing on the debate in Nevada. One of the reason for this censorship is that they are afraid that Kucinich will talk about what happen in New Hampshire. The polls were actually correct; indeed there was a fraud benefiting the so-called surprised winner. Eventually the American people will know the truth. And when that happens the propensity will clearly go toward the leader with the sound judgment not the divider. Kucinich really believe that there was a fraud. He supports this belief with hard cash, by paying for the recounts that is now in order. Kucinich believes that Barrack Obama has won the New Hampshire primary; And Hillary Clinton came in second, if the machines were left breached. Technicians who support the Diebold machine were allowed to break the security seal to change the memory card on the very diebold scanning machine during the Election Day under the pretense that the diebold machine broke down. There seems to be evidence that the surprise winner got a bump of +4.5% and the second candidate’s votes count were subtracting by 2.5%

Richard Andre, Belmont , USA

You know they made a big deal about Kennedy being a Catholic and look how good his presidency turned out to be.........no wait, scratch that.

Brian, Cleveland, USA

So what if he's muslim....am i missing something?
I know very little about politics but when did religion become a determining factor in whether someone will make a good leader...

Ron, Sydney, NSW

For clintons to raise this (desperately) is downright below the belt cheapshots. So what if his middle name H is hussein. Judge a man by his deeds and not by his cover. Remember your own clinton scandals and believe me, I am not even trying to judge you by your cover. Read if you have not. With your kind of desperados mentality, that's why the world labels all Muslims (good and bad) as terrrorists. Don't other religions has the good and the bad? If such is the scenarios, I shudder to think further if the clintons are back in the oval office. We have done enough of the worst for now. We need change, we need damage control and damage management NOW! Give BHO a chance and I am not even an american. Godspeed!

dave k, Guangxi, China

Obama being a secret Muslim is about as likely as Prince Charles hiding his true religious beliefs.

However, some of the black enpowerment statements of Obama's church would give cause for concern, except that Obama himself has refused emphatically to court the black vote, perhaps because he has moved beyond his unhappy childhood.

Clinton's campaign is indecent.

Christopher Gillibrand, Brussels in exile, Belgium/ Uncertain state

Am an African,who like the American politics but usually in favour of democrats,but the way they talk about OBAMA becouse of the father makes me hate CLINTONS,Infact if OBAMA fails 2me all blacks should go 4republicans.

muneza SIMON, KIGALI, RWANDA

Barak is intelligent man . he is the right one for the
president. The clintons will do anything to get into the
white house. You people in nevada wake up,can't you
see what they are saying about Obama. Malicious accusations I say. Is Hillary perfect of course not . It's ashame of her to just about crying to the public when she lost at IOWA.oh I had so much plans for the country, and what is the plans. One plan that I know will not happen is your health plan. I thought she was a real women. So don't go crying again after Nevada
jim hawaii

James Tam Sing, makawao, hawaii

As a muslim, I am quite offended and sad that my religion is being portrayed as something negative. This implies that being a muslims, you are below christians?

"They alone seek leave of thee who believe not in Allah (God) & the Last Day & whose hearts feel doubt, so in their doubt they Waver" (Quran, al-Tauba 45)

Abdul Motin, London, UK

Vote HillaryVote HillaryVote HillaryVote HillaryVote Hillary

Aj, cardiff,

Silly me... I thought we were still a country that guaranteed religious freedom.

Doug, San Francisco, CA

these comments are filled with the misconception that should one have a Muslim father, they too are Muslim by default. This is a LIE.
Obama has not declared that he 'bears witness that there is no God but Allah and that Muhammad is the messenger of Allah'. the absence of this declaration means he is NOT Muslim.

Khan, London,

What makes a Christian moral? The belief in fictitious gods and spooks just indicates a low intelligence.
If someone is acting religious to get votes that's deceit.
Isn't the biggest liar the one that lies to themself (i.e the "religious" community.)
The point of being Christian means that you can do absolutely anything and be forgiven if you just ask for forgiveness.
They don't seem very moral to me.
People need to be reminded that more people have died in the name of Christ than in the name of Hitler.
Christians abdicate from responsibility and make a virtue of cowardice. Those that cower before a fictitious deity and the threat of eternal torture in a lake of fire (hell) have no moral fibre, authority or character whatsoever.

Keith Bentham, Wigan, Lancashire

it's unfair to say what's not true about someone,Obama is a christian for goodness sake why don't you Hillary leave this man alone and give him your support since you know you can't be the party nominee.It's like you Hillary want to give the republicans upper hands against the democrat.

I've a dream that Sen Barrack Obama will be the next and 1st black president of the united states of america........He gat a good mission so lets all support him.

TOIN, LAGOS, NIGERIA

Only in America eh?

Obama constant need to affirm his “christian” identity, would never happen in the UK. In fact to me it is one of the most troubling aspects of his character. I find it strange that someone with a fairly multicultural non-ethnocentric liberal upbringing, should choose to “re-discover” his black identity and attend a church which is so afrocentric. Lets not forget that as child of an african academic, brought up by his white mother, with a racism free middle class upbringing, he has little in common with the former slave history of the majority black american experience. I am left to conclude either that Obama as a young man with presidential aspirations, cynically made this move to give himself a political base, or that he is a man of questionable judgment and intelligence. I would have been more impressed with him had he chosen not to make his (mixed)race an issue.

Tom Leeburn, London, Great Britain

Maggie, They're, taking over!!! AAAAAH NO GO Areas!! OOOOOH Let's run scared!!!!! PLEASE GET A LIFE!!!...The only thing that is taking over in Europe are a growing breed of those of a sick and racist mindset driven by an irrational fear stoked by a trashy, down right retarded media who compound the problem with inflammatory half truth stories which only serves to further alienate a minority of its CITIZENS and plays directly into the dirty hands of those that have the same mindset as some of your ancestors -your relatives who justified and profited from human slavery for not one but hundreds of years and of course your cousins the Nazi's. Yes something nasty IS taking over in Europe and I don't think its Muslims. NM, Alienated European

NM, London, , Europe

Maggie Millington from Brittany. Do please provide a source for your contention that 'Islam is taking hold in Europe'? What does that even mean?

Don't believe everything you read on the internet or what you hear down the pub.

It's ill-informed and bigoted rambling like yours that makes me fear for the world, to be honest.

Al Jennings, Hitchin,

As Kate, London, points out, it may be his present affiliations that are his big weakness.

While I understand the radical stance of the church in historic term, this does pose some further questions about his core values.

'Change' in and of itself is not good. Just look at Britain. It has changed in the last twenty years beyond recognition and it's a mess. I think he will struggle now simply because further scrutiny of his church and it political ties will undermine him.

And I believe the process has shown that America is not racist, simply that they are not willing to jeopardise their country and the world at large.

Had the issues been of race and not national securtiy I think they would have been brushed aside, as they should by any decent human being.

joe, berwickshire, scotland

Some of these people who have left comments here have simply disgusting views on the world and the people in it. It's all "their demands" "they will do this", why must it always be about opposition?
It's clear that Obama is a Christian, but so what if he wasn't? It would do the U.S. very well to have a President who is secular, who respects all religions and especially since Obama may have a better understanding of the Muslim religion, so that he can create real, political ties with the Muslim world, which would go a long way to easing some of the unrest and hatred against America by some extremists

AnneMarie, Cork,

it is ridiculous that the term moslem is used as an insult -ridiculous and unconstitutional. the sad thing is that, to most people, anyone with strong religious convictions seems like a nut. the rest of the world doesn't want america run by fundamentalist christians either. at least hillary only worships money and power, eh?

jem, london, uk

I am afraid to say Kate is actually right, Isam says , no matter what Obama says, that born a muslim of muslim parents in Islam you 'are ' a muslim.
Something else, even if Obama were /is the most dedicated Christian, the Islamists will not let him go.
Once he is in the White house, he will see the full force of Islam come down on him making demands. The pressure will increase , the Saudis fund a great deal in America, see Bush & his connections in the east. You need oil. Oil is own by the muslims, to get their own way Obama will have the added pressure of the Islamists . It's not what he wants it will what they want.Look at the way Islam is taking hold in Europe, they are even practicing Sharia law in their own enclaves, we call them ' no go' areas. Beware you get what you vote for.
Sorry you have a rotten choice !
Believe me he will have to bend to their demands or you will be having another election before one is due.
Any move Obama makes on Africa will be seen as favoring muslims.

maggie millington, Brittany, France.

I can understand the outright bigotry of the republican party, but for democrats - particularly the Clinton campaign to use this issue to further alienate and disenfranchize Muslim Americans is quite frankly horrifying.

Proud Muslim, Arlington, USA

Amazing! Obama has taken quite a bit of flack and I dislike it. I am a 65 yr old woman and Hillary is not in Obama's class. Give him a break. They keep referring to him as black........ does one ever hear much that he is half white since his mother is white?Give me a break too, I am a white woman and haven't heard anyone say anything about his mother being white and supporting that fact. My grandparents came from Italy, the American dream supported what they wanted for their family. The sad thing about Hillary is you get Bill with her and that's too much for many of us. We're all Americans, thank God for freedom to be......

Jacqueline Ramsdell, Arlington, Texas/ USA

I am really disappointed in some Americans for the false rumors concerning Obama. We must give it up for him, he is every bit capable of being one of the greatest presidents that the United States has ever had.

He is a Christian man with morals and values. I simply say leave the man alone, allow him to campaign, my choice in the beginning was Hillary, I am democrat and if she is the nominee for the party I am definitely voting Republican. Very disappointed in Clintons.

Definitely an Obama voter, lets speak truth, leave the lies out.

broussard, Abbeville, La.

I wonder what Kate is arguing? She can't have it both ways - either he's strongly influenced by Islam and can't be trusted, or he's influenced by his black church and can't be trusted. Which is it?

OK, he attended a predominately muslim school in Indonesia for two years, but he also attended a Catholic school for two years too. He only met his biological father once; his stepfather was not strongly religious; and his mother was actually secularist - she taught the young Barack to respect all the world's religions. She took him to church at Christmas and Easter, Chinese New Year celebrations, Shinto shrines, Hawaiian burial sites. And in fact, the adult figures who may have had more influence on his values than anyone may have been his mother's parents, who were from Kansas and raised as Baptists. Now what's wrong with that?

I suspect that he will uphold the Constitution - he taught constitutional law at the University of Chicago. So no need to worry.

Mark Owen, New York,

Obama's mother is not a christian. she is atheist. He is using the fact the he goes to a church to make him "protesant" .

Kasey, Goldsboro,

I am a muslim and am appaulled by the inuendo that it is bad or wrong or somehow inferior to be a muslim. This view that is being stirred up by Right Wing is extremely unproductive, and downright racist. I have noticed in recent months the increasing tendency of the Right and indeed mainstream media to make the same implications. Lowlife behavior from so-called Christians. It saddens me as I live in the US.

TXB, Philadelphia, USA

I see racism is alive and well. Obama is someone who will bring us to where we need to be as a country. He is strong enough to fix what years of a republican run have destroyed.

Betty , Latonia, KY

Mitt Romney? You are saying that a man that belongs to a cult that does not allow outsiders to view it services and mandates that women are subservient to men is the best opportunity for the GOP? Wow! That is the best news I have heard all day!!

Go Obama, or Go Home!!

Charlie, Seattle, USA/WA

The fact is Obama is a states man and since I have read in American news that he is a distant relative of Dick Chiney and had he been what these poeple claim he wouldnt have gone far,and his campaigns have proved him good allow him a chance rule America.The issue of religion is being used to deny him a vote the man knows what he worships.

Byamugisha, kampala, uganda

The misinformed propaganda of "Kate" notwithdstanding, Barack Obama is doing very well in the polls and will continue to do well.

Frank L, Berkeley, CA, USA

Remember, Adolf Hitler was a Christian. And Mahatma Gandhi was not. So religion does not prove anything about a person.

John John, State College, USA

People of the United States of America, come on lets get real here, can any of you read between the lines, take a closer look at wording of candidates, and the terms used from war tactics-strategies. Get yourselves informed, read our constitution, check out past history, do we really want to keep putting the same old reteric in power? Bush- Daddy's prodigy, Clinton both mr. and mrs. wow, come on get fired up and do the right thing this time. Quit going on heresay and popular opinion. Get to your local Libraries and check out the facts, and quit closing your eyes and ears to the truth.

Joanne, Olean, Ny USA

Voting for Hillary doesn’t show any sign of weakness as it has been referred below. She is the one that consistently shows to have the preparation and the determination to improve quality of life in America, and we certainly need those for the position. A sign of weakness is not to vote for her because she is a woman, and sadly, this may still happen. GO Hillary!!!!

Anne , LA, USA

Obama's mother was a religious skeptic, not an atheist. Obama's father was an atheist who had been brought up as a Muslim and Obama was named after him, he's Obama jr. But he was primarily raised by his grandparents on his mother's side. Senator Obama is a Christian and I really wish people would find a real reason to have a problem with electing him to the office of President, instead of dragging out old news which has been discredited over and over again. If your only problem with him is his middle name then I'd say your ignoring a great candidate over trivial information.

Polkastria, Las Vegas, NV

First, Obama's mother was an atheist, not a Christian. In the Muslim world if you are born a Muslim you will always be a Muslim. Actually,if he was considered Muslim this might work in USA favor in Foreign Affairs. He is a member of a Christian church now, but with Farrakan connections. Frankly, Obama seems pretty moderate in politics and person and probably would make a fair president. The trouble is that the Republicans are going to turn him into the Anti-Christ before this election is over, completely slaughter him politically.

Partridge, Atlanta, GA

What I am reading is really sad regarding Obama's name. Obama had no choice in his name or family origin. My question to the Repubican party and the Democratic candidates attacking Obama, Who are your family members? Were there any supremists in your family tree. It would be interesting to know, but I don't find the research necessary. I am interesting in knowing who that person is today and what has been their role in serving America. While I learn more about the candidates, I am interested in knowing how will this person serve the upper, middle and lower class populations. We need someone who has experienced struggle so they can relate to the poor and can identify their needs, someone who can assist in unifying all classes, someone who will work well with international countries. I read the statement Hillary made in regards to a terriorist attack. I fear that terriorists may view a female president as a sign of weakness and will attack quicker. Hillary watch your word.

Vickie, Hartford,

I am a Christian but I am appalled at the level of religious bigotry that has become an acceptable part of political campaigning in this country. First it was Romney is Mormon. This is true. So what? We are not electing a pastor for a church? Obama is Moslem. This is totally false but it is clearly a tactic that is being used by racists and religious bigots. We are a decent people and will pay very little attention to those reckless comments.

Remember, Iowa is 97% white and Obama won in Iowa to the chagrin of racists and bigots. Those interested in racism and bigotry could probably join the Ku Klux Clan and other organization dedicated to bigotry and leave our elections alone.

Stefan Haley, Washington D.C., USA

Dear Readers,
I've just read above that the other candidates (possibly Hilary 'Vote for the Name' Clinton ) in the Democratic presidential race delight in reminding us that Obama's middle name is Hussein. Will they be as forthcoming if his first name is President?
American political campaigns always begin with the candidates that the 'people need', but they always end up with the one that they 'deserve'

Regards
Andrew Raisbeck

Andrew Raisbeck, Teignmouth, Devon

ALL three of Barack Hussein Obama's names are Moslem in origin. His father was Moslem, mother a Moslem convert, married a Moslem after divorce, his siblings are Moslem, he was registered as a Moslem by his parents in the school he attended in Indonesia. That does not make him per se a Moslem but the influence of Islam in his life is unmistakeable. More worrying is the genuinely Marxist, racist, black supremacist, Africa-oriented, Nation of Islam supporting entity to which he belongs and which calls itself a 'Christian church' (see its website at http://www.tucc.org)" "congregation with a non-negotiable commitment to Africa," "commitment to Black Value System," "commitment to disavowal of the pursuit of Middleclassness." Its 'church' magazine, Trumpet, endorses Louis Farrakhan, racist, anti-Jewish, anti-white, Nation of Islam head (he was denied visa to Britain years ago). I will only cast my vote for Pres for an American with a non-negotiable commitment to the US Constitution and US

Kate, london,

how disgraceful is it that the republicans seem to delight in Obama having a muslim middle name, this is sheer racism of the most ugly kind. It also shows the kind of people who the republicans seem to apeal to.

Akram, London,

Mitt Romney won Michigan and has finished first or second in the four states to date. He's the man!!!! He has an overwhelming lead in delegate votes to date. He even led in delegate votes prior to the big win in Michigan.

Go MITTSTER!!

Ingrid

Marie Thomson , Redmond, Washington

Mitt Romney won first in Michigan and has finished first or second in the four states to date. He's the man!!!!

He has an overwhelming lead in delegate votes to date. He even led in delegate votes prior to the big win in Michigan.

McCain and Huckabee:
1) McCain LOST BADLY in Iowa
2) McCain LOST BADLY in Wyoming
3) McCain LOST significantly in Michigan
4) Huckabee LOST BADLY in New Hampshire
5) Huckabee LOST BADLY in Wyoming
6) Huckabee LOST BADLY in Michigan

Only Mitt does well in all types of states in all regions of the country!! He consistantly finishes first or second!

Go MITTSTER!!

Marie Thomson , Redmond, Washington

Romney will definitely get the nomination. The fiscal conservatives adore him, and the evangelicals will grow to tolerate him, as they know he has a much better chance of even competing with Hillary or Obama than Huckabee, whom fiscal conservatives are not enthusiastic about and whose Christian line will serve to alienate what little support the GOP has from other faiths, or McCain, whose tremendous economic incompetence, and a willingness to return to the disastrous foreign policy of George Bush has wiped out all of the support he had from independents.

I will vote for him if Obama doesn't win. He's the only other sensible candidate.

Cameron, Grand Rapids, MI