When attending major pro-Israeli events in New York City, all politicians, as a sign of solidarity, put on a "Yarmulkah" . Are they endorsing Judaism? No, they are merely behaving politely and showing respect for a religion. Nothing more. The same with Senator Obama's wearing of local garb while on an official visit to Kenya.

When will Hillary Clinton learn the same sort of civility?

Javier Arroyo, Silver Spring, MD

If Senator Obama likes to play dress up, that`s okay with me. I would hate to see him get the Democratic nomination, however he dresses. He is too young and untested to lead this great nation. Senator Clinton has more experience, and I believe, is the best candidate. Also, it is high time we had a woman president.

Patsy Jarreau, City of Central, Louisiana

Patsy G Jarreau, City of Central, Louisiana

Bring in the new blood into White House, I'm sick and tired of older folks calling the shots. Hillary's been there before, she should just back down and let the new generation continues. Besides, it is us who will walk into the future not this bitter old lady who appeared to me to have a huge chip on her shoulder. Yeah really, stop being so angry. Let it go Hillary, there's nothing to fight for.

Debbie, Los Angeles, US

Oh and who cares about religion when the war starts to rage. If only the Muslim countries sees Obama as United State's President, wouldn't they stop hating us. Or pointing fingers, throwing accusations, etc.
Obama has lived in Indonesia and many other places in United States and he is also a product of two different races. Come on? Is there a better candidate out there that best represents this globalized and multi faceted world, none other that Obama himself?
That and he's young, clear minded and fresh. Ready and energized as no other candidates could campared to.

Debbie, Los Angeles, US

For those slamming americans about this photo, I'd like to enlighten you that the only ones making a big deal about it are the newsrooms and candidates themselves, NOT Middle America.

Obama is actually pulling away from Clinton in the latest nationwide polls so you self-righteous types need to get a new perspective and stop being so prejudiced while railing against the supposed bigotry of the american public.

Mark, Calcasieu Parish, Louisiana

When President Bill Clinton visited Nigeria on the twilight of his presidency he was officially turbanned (made a chief of) by an Abuja Muslim village ruler. He donned the 'baban riga' chiefly the wear of moslems. Well as far as pictures and dresses go, Mrs Clinton is married to a Nigerian Muslim Chief who is now the ex President of America. Right?

Okwu Anekwe, LAGOS,

thought the americans upheld democracy with the highest esteem but guess what they are all out on one innocent presidential hopeful.............obama

jon, kampala, uganda

Irrespective of this photo, I have yet to see any presidential candidate that, were I an American, I would vote for. Mind you that seems to be the case in most countries (including this one). It seems those that reach the top in politics these days never do it for the will to serve and better their country but merely for their own agendas and egos.

Louise, London,

Caption: :

"Morning Hillary, that looks like some hangover."

David Masu, Zürich,

David Masu - are you suggesting there would be a favorable reaction to Teddy Kennedy in a kilt?

I have no idea why Obama is upset about this picture. What's wrong with it?

Linda, New York City, USA

Good grief all this heartburn over a costume that he wore 3 years ago. If he has family from Somali more power to him
for trying on the religious or traditional garb. Excuse me
how many people of wear Scots kilts, French berets shamrocks etcc as a salute to the country of their ancestors. Give the man a break. I know nothing about either Mr. Barack or Ms Clinton. Not my country not my vote but it just seems so silly to get so upset over a few feet of cloth.

Kate, Victoria BC, Canada

It is shameful to see the lengths Mrs. Clinton will go to smear her opponent. As a woman I was keen to see a female head one of the strongest democracies in the world but Mrs. Clinton's behaviour during the last couple of months has made me change my mind. She is clearly not suited for the job, and needs to grow up.

Patricia, London, United Kingdom

Caption:

"My! You do have big shoes!"

Geoff Bridges, Beauville, US

LOL... Democrats. What dignity and lustre they will surely restore to the office of President!

Thank God, John McCain would never make himself quite that ridiculous.

J Cline, Dallas,

It would appear that Mrs Clinton's camp is getting frustrated by the Obama Momentum. Understadably the phenomenon is perplexing. All the polls and political calculations prior to the commencement of voting has been turned upside down. The belief in many quarters is that Barack Obama is what America Needs as a President. Hope, for the future, Fresh new way of looking at things and intelligence to reposition. Barack we await your swearing in as you make history.

Fola Eniola, Memphis , USA

Will I not vote for Obama based on this (ridiculous looking) photo? Of course not. I won't vote for Obama because he is a (1/2) first-term Senator who hasn't the credentials, skill, experience or contacts necessary to clean up the mess BushCo. is leaving in the Oval Office and to move the country forward. Will I vote for McCain then? Nope. I am going to do what a lot of people will do on Election Day: stay home. We're tired of voting for someone we don't want just to vote against someone we really don't want.

And to my fellow citizens who carry on about his record in the Illinois State legislature I ask you to think about your own State's legislators. Would you put any one of them in the White House today? That's what I thought.

Don, NY, USA

Our current commander in chief likes to costume as a military man on occasion so what is the big deal about trying on the local wardrobe in Kenya for Obama?

Richard Brown, Asheville, NC, USA

It is not that uncommon for visiting dignitaries to wear the apparel/ceremonial clothing of the host country as an expression of respect. Our Australian PM's have been doing this for some time.

Karen, Adelaide, South Australia

Is anyone here commenting from the U.S.A? Who will vote? The Canadians and the British? That's an irony!

John , BROOKLYN, New York

Yeah imagine, non-americans commenting on an article in a non-american newspaper

Leo Jeff, St. Merryn, Cornwall, UK

The knowledge of some people astounds me. I am a Somali, the reason our men wear the turban is not for religous purposes it is cultural and climatic reason. The climate in our region is hot and the white turban and clothes reflect the sun away making the person cooler.We have worn these clothes even before we accepted islam. So for all those small minded people Obama was not wearing a religous atire but a cultural one.

maryan, London, uk

Is anyone really talking about the real issues or are election contests destined to be little more than mud-slinging campaigns/beauty contests for the TV cameras????

Rob, Paris, France

Someone tell Hilary to get real. The other day she took jibe at Obama for lifting some words and at the end of the day she couldn't avoid Xeroxing her self. Today her people are xeroxpreading a xeroxed photo. Americans are not this cheap i thought. Whatever happened to level headeness.

Last kicks of the lady who owns a xeroxing machine.

Eleneus, Glasgow,

As this campaign progresses the more it is becoming apparent that MCain is the man most suited to be the next US President. Obama's assertion that he would immediately end US military involvement in Iraq is either a populist knee jerk reaction to an unpopular but necessary war that is actually now progressing well (in spite of years of criminal incompetence by the Bush administration) or born out of a conviction the tenets of which fundamentally flawed. His wife's recent admission that she has never felt cause to be proud of the US is an unpleasant glimpse into how things are perceived in the Obama household. Either way, it spells trouble for the world at a time when strong US leadership is needed. Hopefully Americans will realise and not vote for yet another failed president. As for Hillary, she is the archetypical highly intelligent person who manages to screw up most times. She is too convoluted, political and nuanced a person to implement solutions. Stimes you can be too clever.

mark, Ibrag, Malta

Re Tom Baldwin's article "Democrat race bighted by row over turban picture":

I was very disappointed to see the word "Democrat" used in the title of this article. In U.S. politics, Republcans use it as a slight or insult. The word Democrat is a noun; if the intention is to use an adjective, the correct word is "Democratic".

Martin B, Montreal, Canada

martin boyaner, montreal, canada

He was wearing a turban - SO WHAT?
'When in Rome do as the Roman's do' - I think Barack did just that and that there is nothing wrong in that. It's merely a friendly gesture.

Miss A , London, England

Why do Obama have to be a master of rhetoric didn't John F. Kennedy have a dream that we would go into space and land on the moon.

Bennie Mitchell, New York, New York

"As a post 911 American. I would never vote for a man whose middle name is Hussein! Wears somali dress, and clearly is not patriotic when it comes to placing his hand over his heart during our national anthem.
Cheryl in Michigan-USA"
Could you please explain the connection between name Hussein and 911? Or what would you do if you meet somebody called Hussein? Run away? Call police?
The article above and your comment provides a very good insight into American mindset. The level of brainwashing is incredible. But the sad thing is that the circus we are watching is being peddled as the triumph of democracy! If Clinton wins using such dirty tricks who will believe in her? Who will believe in "free" press, that does everything to get rid of Obama? Is the American press really free if it used so easily for dirty tricks?
I hope that Obama wins. I was indifferent before, but I am rooting for him now, just to be sure that Clinton stays away from the power and the rest of the world.

Oleg, Toronto, Canada

(1) Any comments about how "racist" the United States is are already outdated - the fact that Obama has made it as far as he did means that most Americans are truly open to having the best candidate regardless of background

(2) If Obama loses this election, it has nothing to do with background - for which while he has likely lost some votes, in the net he has won more votes than he has lost. It will be because Americans will eventually vote for substance over style and because over time his statements are now being vetted for consistency

(3) Obama's real problem is that he has now been in the spotlight for a while, and inconsistencies in his message and his personal story are starting to emerge. Also, it didn't help that his wife expressed anti-American sentiment just last week - why should the US (or any country) be led by a person who doesn't love it with all their heart?

(4) Obama is not Muslim and the vast majority of Americans know this, so religion is not an issue

H Juneja, London, UK

Is anyone here commenting from the U.S.A? Who will vote? The Canadians and the British? That's an irony!

John , BROOKLYN, New York

There should be a full investigation - but first, a caption competition!

John B, Middlesbrough, UK

Big deal! I believe the present incumbent of 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue, dresses up in a cowboy outfit in his free-time.

Richard Crow, Warsaw, Poland

The Clinton Regime has done nothing but brought shame to the United States. Other countries think they are a joke. With the forign policy presented by the Bush Regime we need someone that won't make our country the laughing stock of the world. "I did not inhale" and "I did not have sex with that woman" were heard around the world. Hilary can't keep a family straight. How can she run a country? The despiration the Clinton's are demonstrating is to simply to attempt to save face. Did anyone remember the Impeachment hearings? Or was that just me?

Franklin R. Sandress, Chicago, Il

Some of the comments on this board are somewhat narrow minded. Obama is not ashamed of being associated with wearing a turban he is just not happy this picture taken 2 years ago have been used at such a late stage of the presidental campaign AS IF it should matter.

Unfortunately, Hillary and her team are using cheap tactics to attract uneducated vote who perhaps have xeno or muslimophobia and think that Obama could be a "devil in disguise".

Mr T, London, UK

Good grief, how small minded, bigoted, and racist some of you are.

Regardless of who actually posted this photograph the fact that they left it commentless speaks far more than the contents of the picture. Whoever did it (and you would have to suspect it was Clinton) knew that by saying nothing about it would incite people (some of whom have posted here it would seem) to make up their own conclusions about it regardless of the facts.

The facts seem to be that a man went to a foreign country and showed respect for the people of that country by donning their traditional dress. That's it.

As other people have said, wearing a kilt doesnt make me Scottish so why does wearing a turban make Obama Muslim?

As for the people who won't vote for someone because of their name, that's even more absurd than not voting for them because of the colour of their skin or their gender.

LizSara, Liverpool, UK

Some of these comments are bordering on racist. How can someone say Obama sounds too much like Osama to get someone's vote? Are Americans that shallow? And why is it better to find out that he wore a turban now rather than later? Why does it look like he really is a muslim after all? Can't people imagine how offensive such statements are to people by the name of Osama, or who wear turbans or are muslim? It just feeds the negativity that is felt towards the States and people should be better than that, especially if they read The Times. That's the trouble with free-speech in the media it can illuminate one's lack of intelligence around the globe.

Ira Hayes, Gila River Indian Community, USA

I guess Mrs. Clinton could not say "Look he is black!"
so she and the US News agency demonize Obama
by calling him Muslim.

As a Somali I take great Offence that our tradition clothing
which we have been wearing thousands of years to became
something to frighten with Americans.

I found Hillary and those who take offence to our traditional clothing to be IGNORANT AND UNCOUTH!

keep offending the people of the world with your ignorance
and your hateful messages, since when did Islam became
something to be ashame of?

No wonder US is lossing the world economic dominance to China looooooooool

Somalis are the largest clan in East Africa, we are in four country and all that OIl!
such an ignorant Messages coming from US is why China hears Chaching!

Ubah Mohamed, somalia,

Now, more than ever, I would vote for Obama. My admiration for him has sky rocketed since viewing the picture of him wearing a Somalian cultural costume. It demonstrates his ability at diversity and shows that he is a true diplomat who is able to represent the U.S.A in a kinder light and is able to negotiate/interact with anyone anywhere in the world. Every country hates America and America needs someone like Barack Obama at this time for many different reasons.

Jash, Toronto, Canada

Hilarious! That is the only interepation I can make of this nonsensical photo. Who cares? The real shame is that both candidates are turning this into nothing but a circus. Obama is very charismatic and a master of rhetoric, promises of change. Clearly he is winning the "beauty contest" but show me the facts and supporting arguments for all of this BS! At least Hillary has a plan which is not based on false promsises of Change, Idealistic bantering and raving.. It is time for Obama to step up to the plate and show us the facts instead of his vision of the American Dream.

Mike, Toronto, Canada

Cheryl (I would never vote for a man whose middle name is Hussein!) why am I not surprised - thats middle America, and is why you got Bush and Cheney and deserve verything that comes of your attitudes. Enjoy (but leave the rest of the World alone)

Timur, London, UK

Wow, I think its pretty scary that there are Americans who would base their vote on a name. He didn't choose the name, it was given to him. And by the way, you don't get much more patriotic than I am. My dad was AF for 20 years and now my husband has just finally been allowed to retire after 24 years of Active Duty in the Army and several tours in Iraq through both Desert Storm and OIF. My own vote isn't 100% decided yet, but I sure won't base it on the guys middle name. Or a photograph of him doing something diplomatic like wearing local garb.

Pat, Ft Hood, TX

"As a post 911 American. I would never vote for a man whose middle name is Hussein! Wears somali dress, and clearly is not patriotic when it comes to placing his hand over his heart during our national anthem.
Cheryl in Michigan-USA

cheryl, Garden City, USA- Michigan"

You are an example of the sort of people Hillary's camp aimed this photo for.

Tornike, London, UK

As a post 911 American. I would never vote for a man whose middle name is Hussein! Wears somali dress, and clearly is not patriotic when it comes to placing his hand over his heart during our national anthem.
Cheryl in Michigan-USA

cheryl, Garden City, USA- Michigan

Stephen Pain, Charles is not the "Future King of ENGLAND". There is no such title, and hasn't been for ages. The title is King of The United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, and this is what his mother was crowned in 1953 (well, Queen of...).

Elizabeth II's titles as Queen Regnant are listed by the order in which the remaining original Realms first became Dominions of the Crown: The United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland (original dominion), Canada (1867), Australia (1901), and New Zealand (1907); followed by the order in which the former Crown colony became an independent Realm: Jamaica (1962), Barbados (1966), the Bahamas (1973), Grenada (1974), Papua New Guinea (1975), the Solomon Islands (1978), Tuvalu (1978), Saint Lucia (1979), Saint Vincent and the Grenadines (1979), Antigua and Barbuda (1981), Belize (1981), and Saint Kitts and Nevis (1983).

Nook, Purley,

Its such a disgrace. Whats wrong if Obama is wearing a turban or a traditional dress (somali). If I was the senator at that time, I would have done the same as Obama have done but its ironic how Clinton camp is using this photograph to get some more votes. I reckon Clinton camp should go and learn some proper tactics rather than picking some weird allegations against Obama.

Fazila Ragi , cardiff south wales, united kingdom

The Clinton clan have done the American people a great service. Better to find out the truth about this man before it's too late rather than afterwards when ther's little one can do about it.

alan maddox, wirral, england

Sane America must be so embarrased that a photo like this would even be considered an issue. Mind you, sane America...

Matthew, Chiang Mai, Thailand

Would there be the same reaction to Teddy Kennedy wearing tartan? If this is how the planet's No1 human is selected we're all doomed.

David Masu, Zürich,

is he ashamed of this picture? if so why?

Phil Barnes, Preston, england

I am mailing from Africa and trust me, i didn't know the world's most admired nation had sunk to our (AFrican-savage) levels. So, a turban can cause such furore? If i wore a rosary tomorrow would that make me a Catholic or would i become a Scottish by wearing their kilt? Grow up Americans---in the face of many u have become a conquering, blood-thirsty nation. What u need now is a total PR change in govt. And judging from Hillary's tantrums, i don't think she is the option. And i didn't know being a First Lady is such a serious political position to gain experience from. Unless we are saying she had a special husband, whom being a wife to was such an experience. What political mileage can Laura claim tomorrow for having been George's wife? Look here guys, for once vote for TRUE CHANGE.

don wanyama, kampala, uganda

If there is nothing wrong with the content and context in which the photo was taken, then why should Obama be ashamed?

Instead of pointing fingers and claiming that the Clinton team inflamed anything, why not simply explain what the photo is and what it means, as well as whether this is a reflection of Obama's confusing claims about his own views on faith and race.

A united who has been a long-time member of a black separatist church.

A man who claims to be distinctly Christian but whose church and pastor, as official actions of that church, bestowed upon Louis Farrakhan the Jeremiah Wright Trumpet Lifetime Achievement Award for positive contributions to culture and religion. Wright, Farrakhan and their religious positions are anything but unifying, as both advocate black separatism and Obama has been in that church for two decades (according to his own accounts to Oprah, another member). And Farrakhan is known for his vehement hatred of nearly all things "white" and Christian!

Crimson Shamrock, Madison, Wisconsin, USA

I hope some of the people on this blog never appear on a jury. Hilary has been condemned with little if any evidence. Of course it’s possible the email may have been posed by a supporter but it is unlikely her campaign team or she had anything to do with it because they would know it would be too risky. Also it appears that the Republicans expect to contest the presidency against Obama so how do we know a republican supporter wasn’t responsible?

Ian Davis, Sydney, Australia

Are you serious!?! What is wrong with our country? Barack has stated his religion, on several different occasions, as Christian. Why does the media and public waste so much time on this rubbish?

Brad, Edmonds, WA

I am from North Carolina. Hillary is on her last leg and she is doing whatever she can to inflict negative attention to Barack. It is a last ditch effort and I will be glad when she withdraws, even if it is without dignity,probably kicking and screaming. She has really shown her true side during this election year. Our primary is in May, and Barack will roll with another southern state. YES WE CAN !!!!

Mike Wells, Williamston, USA/ N.C.

Yet another reason why Hilary is not the right person for the job. Worse, she seems to have forgotten that the US has been built by immigrants.

Farrukh, Woking, UK

If we ask obama's siblings and step=father who raised him, It is off limits and a racial slur. If we ask about his attendance at a Muslim school we are corrected that he attended Catholic school. True but after the Muslim school. If we use his middle name Husein, it is off limits. If we point out the faults and dangerous tenets of the Trinity Church (his) we are accused of being racists.
If we ask why he doesn't salute the flag but wears Muslim dress, we are accused of race baiting. Forget Renzi's connections but recall McCain rumored infatuation 8 years ago. Obama's connection to a couple who alleged planted more than 30 bombs in the us is off limits. What is wrong with answering the questions? Why are we wrong in wanting to know about his siblings. Why can we ask Romney about Mormonism but not Obama about Muslim and Trinity Church?

george, Carlsbad, SD/ CA

The future King of England, Charles wore if I am correct, many tribal costumes out of respect to the countries he was touring. I think that Obama is just doing that, showing respect. I thought the US of all countries know what that word means. RESPECT.

Stephen Pain, Odense, Denmark

How depressing that you can't be anything but ostentatiously Christian, even in our secular, 'enlightened' age, to become leader of the world's greatest power.

How depressing that democrats vote for Obama just because he is black and despite his lack of policy grasp and political experience.

How depressing that republican redneck Christians will vote against Obama just because he is black, but painting him as muslim to assuage their grotesque hypocracy.

How depressing that anti-depressants don't work any more.

Russell, London, UK

it is a picture of Obama, when he chose to dress in that way. Why is he so upset that people have been able to see it? Has he something to hide?

dominic, Teddington, London,

I don't think Obama should be too worried about this photo. ANyone who is unwilling to vote for someone just because they wear an ethnic costume or because of their (perceieved) religion, would not vote for a black man in any case. There are over 5 million muslims in the US. Are these people saying they are excluded from high office. The only people who are affected by this pic are white descendants of sheet burning KKK retards.

R Hussain, London, UK

I hope the secret service boys are looking after Obama. I seem to remember another black chap by the name of Martin Luther King Jr who "they" also didnt want to become too powerful in America.

G.Gibson, Sydney, Australia

I've seen and read everything from Obama being a Muslim to a man in the thrall of one of the most anti-semitic Christian pastors in America. Would someone like to ask the man himself where his loyalty lies?

We just seem to live from spin to spin. My head is reeling!

leila , manchester, uk

The only surprise about this tactic is they waited so long to use it. No doubt some slimy spin doctor or campaign manager will be given the blame but I can't believe Hilary doesn't have a say in what tactics are used. If she has authorised this kind of thing then she's not fit to be President. Not just because of the implied slur that being a muslim should preclude one from becoming President, but also because she is insulting the intlelligence of the electorate in the worst way possible. The whole thing smacks of desparation becase things are going badly for her campaign.

Philip, Co-pen-hag-en, Denmark

When in rome.....

Chris , Amsterdam, The Netherlands

it doesn't matter who put these pictures up, what is suprising is how "common" America is so stupid that a man in a turban, a name he didn't chose is the points being held up against a presidential candidate.
Keep up the pretence of Hilary has exprience, it is not like her husband had any and he was a much better leader than the sap currently in control. While the rest of Europe can continue laughing at the stupidity of the "common" American who can't see past a turban or a name. So much for land of the free...well as long as your not mixed race (for god's sake Obama isn't black, he is mixed) or have a muslim parent.

B, Aberystwyth,

I am very surprise to read some strange commentaries here. Why American media care about the future president religion especially if he's Muslim or not?
Unfortunatly, waving such ideas is a non recent plan which targets monotoring the new generation and confusing Islam image around the World.
America is democratic, Multicultural and Multireligeous. That Mr Obama is Muslim, Christian or Jew it his duty. The question is: What can Mr Obama do for the country?

BAKKALI Mohammed Nidar, Tangier, Morocco

Tit-forTat. If you can't play with the big "boys" obama then you should consider leaving the game. Turban looks good on ya though.

Pithy, fayette, AL

As for those who aren't familiar with Obama's history, you can look it up in any number of sites. He belongs in the United Church of Christ (UCC) which is Congregationalist. Unlike so many politicians I see (and I used to be a Republican until 2002 and my GOP role model was Jacob Javits) who seem too facile regarding their faith, Obama was very honest in his memoir about the struggles within before affirming his faith as an adult. I'm a Lutheran (LC-MS) and I'm far more conservative in terms of my biblical outlook. However, his discussion of inner struggles moved me even though I've become so cynical regarding the American political process.

Unlike many who are moved or called on to service (or in the secular vernacular, "good deeds") by their faith or their sudden "rebirth" (we see plenty of born-agains in the GOP), it seems his desire to serve led to his faith and that's fairly unique. As Elton Trueblood said, "The unexamined faith is not worth having."

Neil Richardson, Atherton, CA

Mary Jane - he has answered the question. he's said he's never been a muslim and that he's been a member of a christian church for a number of years. Why is it that some people haven't heard the answer? Why is it that the rumors continue to fly?

The bigger question is: why would it matter if he was a muslim? whatever happened to freedom of religion in the US?

Doug, San Francisco, CA

As Shakespear said, "Thou doth protest too much"! Again the question to Obama, Are you a Muslim or not.
Is this in fact a way in the back door for our enemies???

Just answer the question and be done with it. Quit pointing fingers at everyone.

Mary Jane Anderson, Monument Valley, ut

I really don't know I guess I would say Obama and Osama is a little bit to close for comfort.

anna, albuquerque, usa

It is customary and an honour for visitors to be adorned with traditional garb-- and given gifts--when visiting traditional leaders or communities in Africa. And Obama has always been proud of his Kenyan heritage.

However, Obama has been the target of an ugly smear campaign that plays on Americans' ignorance. The smears have labeled him a muslim, tried to link him to terrorists, and questioned his patriotism. His Kenyan names have been ridiculed and insulted.

Unfortunately, there are still too many Americans that are uncomfortable with people from different cultural (mostly non-European) backgrounds. This is despite America being called a "melting pot" and land of equality. I have a Nigerian father, white American mother and have experienced this ignorance all my life. Americans still hold the stereotypes of Africans, Arabs and others that they see on TV and in the movies.

This fact has been used by Obama's opponents as a weapon against him. That's the fuss.

Christine, Atlanta, United States

Wake up and smell the coffee! It's clearly evident that America doesn't deserve a pragmatic leader such as Obama.

All this fuss over a photo!!!!!!

USA be honest you don’t want a black president and the great dilemma is the alternatives aren’t worth electing.

Bharat Mistry, London, UK

We have just had eight years of enduring a man who loves the sound of his own voice. Must we be tortured for another four?

Mr. Obama's posturing and proselytizing will in the end be non-productive. Unless he plans on conning the lobbyists and talking the terrorists to death.

If he is this full of himself as a primary candidate, how unbearable will he be as president?

I do hope Hillary will be able to pierce his thin skin if for no other reason than to show he IS human and fallible before it's too late for the ones with the scales on their eyes to see.

Schatze Berndt, Rochester, MN

"Ethnic doesn't mean black": of course it does. It is just as much a euphamism for black as "gender politics" is for women rights and "obese" is for fat and lazy.
Americans just can't talk straight in case they offend.

TOM, Keeds, UK

My gosh, this is crazy stuff! When I was in Laos, I wore the Lao sin (skirt) and when I was in Vietnam I wore the ao yai. just like a native. My friends were so pleased and proud to see me wear their native clothes (I am from the Philippines). What is sooo wrong with Barack Obama wearing a turban and a tribal costume? He actually looked great, and I am so sure, his hosts appreciated it! I knew he is the President who can get the United States respectable again!

Sabina, Honolulu, USA

Americans have travelled all over the world and bought worn attires of other Western countries so why victimize Sen. Obama.

philomena, Nairobi,

i don't understand what obama's argument is against this picture being circulated. Is the picture not real? this is a real picture that was taken of him. if he didn't want people to see it he shouldn't have allowed it to be taken. end of story, no spin about it.

Ashley, Atlanta/GA/USA,

Let's all face it! At the desperate time our WORLD is in we need to go upon experiance. Hillary has that experiance. If Barack had much more experiance I would definetly consider him, he is smart, But we cannot afford on the job training at this point. We need someone with years of positive experiance. The smart and safe choice for me right now is Hillary.

Grant, cincinnati, ohio

I think it is time Americans should try a woman US President as part of its strategy to soften its battered image abroad - that of a "bully' nation caused by its male leaders.

The United States has earned itself this image because its male Presidents have bullied smaller nations to its knees, thus making citizens of this nations angry at the U.S.

This hatred has of course, its own economic imlications but despite that, Washington would continue to be hard on its foreign policy.

Alhough I might sound silly about this proposition, a woman U.S. President could launch a charm offensive side by side with its foreign policy initiatives to entice other countries leaders to sit with her to talk about world security and peace . I firmly believe that a woman leader could talk with candid as against a male counterpart.

This is an opportunity U.S. voters should not miss or lost this golden opportunity forever.

Marlet Badeo, Manila, Philippines

I believe it's been 40 years since Martin Luther King passed away, April 4,1968 to be exact.. For some "Americans" this can be viewed as 40 years in the wilderness (it's time to enter the promise land)...... Mr. King's dream could become a reality for "All Americans". The Lord works in mysterious ways..... "Fear not, stand still, and see the Salvation of the Lord" Exodus 14:13. Instead of criticizing the candidates, pray for them --- God is still in control no matter who is chosen to lead this nation. It's all good, it's all God....pass it on. The chosen will understand.

Es, Upper Marlboro, MD

I do not understand the fuss. Is that Obama in the photograph? Did he put on those clothes? So, if that is true, then what is all this fuss? Is he now saying it's wrong somehow to show a photograph he posed for? What is Obama ashamed of?

Nona, New York City, USA

Listen, if John F. Kennedy, Richard Nixon, Ronald Reagan, Bill Clinton and all the others who've claimed Irish roots had a chance to wear a 'tribal' suit (green, as all North Americans believe) they'd have done it in a second flat. 'Ethnic' doesn't mean black.

John Carty, Medellin, Colombia

What on earth is wrong with Obama wearing African clothes? Shouldn't he be proud of his mixed heritage?

I am thoroughly British but have worn Pakistani clothes when invited to attend the Muslim festival of Eid. That does not in any way make me a Muslim but it does show interest in and respect for other cultures.

Surely Americans cannot be so narrow as to prohibit the wearing of non-Western clothes? Don't they ever travel abroad and buy saris, sarongs or other local garb?

Phil, Hong Kong,

Sorry Addison but the rest of the world knows nothing about Hillary Clinton other than what we are seeing in the media now. The only time we saw her during the Clinton Presidency was when the Lewinsky story broke - not a lot to hang her hat on and certainly not a reason for us to respect her.

Heather, Wellington, New Zealand

It shows shockingly poor judgement on the part of Senator Obama, given that he intended to run for President of the U.S.A.

He certainly should have given more than a single second's thought to political realities in the U.S.

eag, Maritimes, Canada

It is absolutely ridiculous of accusing Hillary's team of passing this photo of Obama. I would worry more with recent news on Obama’s mansion purchase (and donations) in very unclear circumstances.

Anne , LA, USA

Anyone but Hillary!

CWM, Armstrong, Iowa

As an American citizen, I am proud of Barack Obama respecting his Somali hosts and trying on a costume gifted to him. He represents us Americans who have respect and regard for our friends all over the world. I have never been so angy at Hillary Clinton and her cohorts for distorting the image of Barack Obama as I am now. I am almost always cool and it is hard for anyone to excite me. But by the malicious intent of Hillary Clinton and her campaign in trying to paint Obama as a Mulism, which he is not, and scare Americans from voting for him, leaves me seething with anger. I am utterlyt disappointed by Hillary Clinton. I hope and pray my fellow citizens in Ohio and Texas will boldly exhibit the will of American voters - that we are a people who want to be at peace with the world, we respect all the cultures of the world, and we do not tolerate those amongst us who are otherwise. And we will elect a leader who exhibits the best of our qualities.

PJudice.

PJudice, San Francisco, California

Why in the world are the words "marred", "blighted", racist" being hurled around so casually? It is a simple question: did he or did he not have his photo take wearing the garb?

Bob Evans, Anaheim, California

The costume is NOT African, it is Muslim and there is NO proof that Hillary Clinton had anything to do with posting the photo. Perhaps you should re-read the article.

name witheld, CA, USA

I'm surprised Obama's people took the bait.

The pic was circulated with no comment. It was the Obama campaign that called it a 'smear.' Why is it a smear?

The more they try to explain that, the deeper the hole they dig for themselves.

And good old Ralph Nader's running again.

Pretty good day for McCain and the Republicans, I think.

gb, Austin, USA

I am flabbergasted by the stupidity of most of the contributors on this page.
What, must Hillary Clinton do, in the face of all this vitriolic
behaviour against her?
Playing underhand and dirty, I have witnessed in this country, practised by the subversive Government running it.
Surely, Americans are wise and intelligent enough to know they are being brainwashed into voting in the most unsuitable President that has ever run for this high office?
Also let me make it perfectly clear, I am not referring to Hillary Clinton!

prudence eely bond mcguire, LONDON, ENGLAND UK.

Shame on Hilllary, you don't critized someone just because he
is wearing a costume of the country that he visited. Like the lady from Kansas say, Bush didn't even finished the military let along being in one, for him to wear out nation,s military is more shameful then Obama wearing an African costume. That's showing how classic he is.

Hillary, by the way stop stating that Obama doesn't have any foreign policy experience. It's seem to me that Bill Clinton didn't have any experience either when he was elected as the President in 1992. By you being the 1st lady doesn't give you no more experience that Obama. Stop being a sore loser. Now we know how the real Hillary Clinton is and not the one
who just over a week ago, stated that she was honor to be on the same stage with Barack Obama.

Rosemary, Maryland

Rosemary, Brunswick, United States

Clinton and her staff seem to be taking a swipe every half hour or so in the hope that something will stick against Obama. The odd thing is that suddenly the press are wading in as well. While I expect nothing less from HRC my suspicion is that the media just want this race to go on for as long as it can, which it won't if Clinton is beaten in the next week or so. My suspicion is that this is less about honest journalism (even if there has been some need for more critical coverage of Obama) and more about manipulating the forthcoming results in Clinton's favour. It would be a shame if she prevailed on account of a such an overwhelmingly negative - not to mention Obama obsessed - campaign.

Joseph, london, united kingdom

Big deal, the guy's trying to be a good guest in a foreign nation by wearing the local clothing. The fact that this is even a reportable debacle is sad.

Chris Anderson, Buffalo Grove, IL, United States

Addison Baxter - you must be joking surely?

Karen, Oxford,

The way I look at it, I would just as soon as see him in the costume of an African than to have seen
Bush put on the uniform of our nation's military when he didn't even finish his service. I am Swedish (3rd generation) and I would suppose that the people who denigrate him would also denigrate me for wearing the Swedish national costume if I went thereif I went there. Shame on you Hillary!

Beverly, Wichita, Kansas

So is Barrack a muslimist or not?

name witheld, manchester,

Correct me if i’m wrong but the Presidency is sui generis.
The President doesn’t run the country, he leads it.
The Presidency is not about qualifications or experience it is about judgement. Not the one that leads you to Iraq, aka HRC nor the one that you can back pedal from aka John McCain. I will leave the conclusion to you.

Orhan Catan, Istanbul, Turkey

The more Hillary tries, the more obnoxious she becomes.

Obama and his campaign have only stated straight up facts throughout, delivered brilliant speeches, and united more people from more walks of life than anybody else running.

This has left Hillary only able to attack Obama on anything she, or her people, can make up. Hillary is a *long* way from being presidential material.

Mark, London,

Its becoming increasingly obvious that the Clinton's are becoming deeply embroiled in racism to win the nomination.

If they carry in like this they may as well hand the presidency to the republicans.

Henry Adams, London,

I'm beginning to believe the public is stupid enough to let this opportunity pass them by. Also, Mrs. Clinton is the Democratic leader who would take us to war if it is absolutely necessary and not until then. Mr. Obama sounds like he would never do that which would be a disaster.

Jason, Kansas City, MO

Yes, Maggie Williams, it's fine to see a WHITE woman in traditional garb, but when you have been accused of being a muslim and unpatriotic, I would have to say that you HAVE gone way below the belt... and you know it - you are the ones taking a play out of Karl Rove's playbook!

mhansen, portland, oregon

Clinton fights dirty again.....Where does she get off?

Hilary Clinton seems to think she has some kind of divine right to be the next president and now it seems that that might be in jeopardy she will do anything to stop Obama.

Clinton's camp have obviously put this photo out to misrepresent Obama as some kind of crypto-muslim to uneducated anti-muslim americans - why else would they do it? It is diningenuous for them to suggest otherwise.

What next?...Another "turn on the taps" crying moment to show her "emotional side"

Carl Mburu, Portsmouth, UK

It seems to me that the press as well as the Clinton campaigne should be stressing the fact that with Mrs. Clinton's election, our moral and ethical reputation would be instantly restored, in the eyes of the rest of the world, whereas anyone else elected will have to spend their first term proving they can be trusted. After all, Mrs. Clinton was voted the most admired / respected woman in the world for sevral years running, and there is no question that both Clinton's are much loved by people of every nation for their efforts at improving conditions for the disadvantaged and and bringing peace to the world. So many of our problems with our allies and our enemies would be ameliorated just by Mrs. Clinton's election. What other candidate could this be said about--regardless of "inspirational" speeches? I have difficulty believing the American public is stupid enough to let this opportunity pass them by.

Addison Baxter, Many, LA