my father was native american, my mom from mexico.

i am a democrat. dems are more concerned with social issues that have to do with the middle to lower income person, of which i am one.

independents and liberals tend to be more concerned with social issues that have to do with 'causes'. and many are well educated, middle to upper income level.

when you hear a liberal speak of discrimination,or poverty, i would ask that you stop for a moment and ask yourself what a person with this back ground would know of this subject other than perhaps their thesis or favorite charity?

native americans have had great cause for heartache, as have mexicans, asians, jews, irish, arabs, italians, unlike african americans, we carry on.

barack obama, a great liberal, chose to appeal to powerful, agressive black movement, and wealthy influential liberals and independents, to further his bid for the white house.

hillary is the choice of democrats, who are less than privleged.

S FULTON, SAN FRANCISCO,

When evidence surfaces showing Obama's presence at Reverend Wright's controversial sermons, Obama's chances to become President of the USA will be toast. Investigative journalists will probably be able to surface other evidence of Obama's ties to the radical anti-American Left. There is, in U.S. elite, or so-called elite circles, a double standard in the way a black candidate is treated compared with a white candiate. If McCain had a preacher who was associated with the Aryan Nation or other extreme Rightwing racist philosophy, the liberal media would dog him on that 24x7 right to the end of November.

Ted Harwood, Boston,

There appears to be a separation between white and black as ever in these things. What the white community has to realise is that even though 'they' were not there during the darkest days of slavery there is real anger in the black community. What you need to remember is that a whole race were disenfranchised, shamed, manipulated, raped and disrespected. This was on a level for greater than the Jewish holocaust - which in itself was one of the greatest shames on humanity and proves the wickedness that one man can inflict on another. The only way black, white, hispanic, jew, asian or whoever can truly come together is to accept the whole of each society excluding no one. We hear things that we do not agee with or like, that we feel is not right or even downright evil but we need to put them in their place and confront such views as they are real to some people.
There is a saying that you can run but you cannot hide - the debate has been raised so we should work together.

vernon butcher, basingstoke, england

As an observer on how the entire presidential race develops and the newsmedia coverage of the same, I am just once again astonished by the poor quality of the same. This issue has been covered as if the remarks made by the Reverend where a one time event. If this is the case we should move on to more important issues to be discussed with the candidates. If this type of rethoric however is a common practice in the church it raises serious questions. But I have not seen one single news media coverage asking this question to Sen. Obama or a member of his campaign. He should clarify the same.And if the rethoric is common no speech he delivers can justify the association. He had enough opportunities in the past to move to a different church of proof he had distanced himself from the Reverend in the past.

Martin Cramer, Buenos Aires,

A white person can't say anything about Obama without being called a racist. But, it's OK for him to call us "typical white people". It's Ok for him and his bigot buddy Wright to put down this country...the country that made it possible for him to even run for President. Wright does not deserve to be called Reverend.

Well, this "typical white person" wil never vote for him in a million years. If Hillary loses the nomination I will vote for McCain.

Annie, Indianapolis, IN

I am an independent that is leaning towards McCain in the fall election, but I could see myself voting for Clinton if McCain picks a religious nut as veep in the fall. What the dems don't realize is that independents like me who voted with them in 3 of the last 4 elections are not going to vote for Obama after listening to his kind rejection of Farrakan, his minister's "words that matter" (G D America, etc.), his wife's implied shame of being American, and his campaign's constant harping that they are being victimized by Clinton's willingness to win at any cost. The fact of the matter is he has not been attacked hard by Clinton or anyone in the media (some YouTube posts maybe). This fall, the conservative 527's will eat him alive and the media sharks will feast on the fresh meat. The Bush's have left no stones unturned around the McCain or Clinton households. Bottom line: enlightened dems are selecting a younger, less qualified man instead of a qualified woman.

Ted, houston, texas

Nancy, your views astound me! First and foremost Bill & Co ruled over the most peaceful & prosperous period of US history in the last century despite inheriting a huge deficit in taking office. That he handed back to the US people after 8 years a monetary surplus. world peace and agreements in previously warring nations (including N. Ireland) is another issue. Yet you and others are more interested in details of a healthy sexual issue of Bill than the peaceful and economic state America was in under his reign than under than the current president! Hillery has her faults but we know the dangers, but with Obama we only know the wonderful side as all history has been airbrushed, including his history with his pastor

johnjoe, london,

To Paul in Sacramento: That's the problem, isn't it? The black community must move beyond blind devotion to Farrakhan or Wright and their demagogic, divisive, and victim-focused rhetoric. Maybe the community, and America, and the world as a whole should be more questioning of leaders, religious and otherwise.

What disturbs me is that Obama embraced Wright when Obama was already an adult and indeed a graduate of an elite law school, so he cannot claim the excuse of brain damage from having been born into some church.

Three bad choices for president.

Alfonso Valdes, San Francisco Area, USA/California

Having Europeans lecture me on their views that I'm taking a man's SPIRITUAL MENTOR'S racist and Anti-Semitic opinions too seriously would be funny were it not for European history over the last few hundred years. As it is, it's just sad.

Jon Hausman, Ballston Lake, USA

Fred - You are wrong! I and many of my friends are independents. We are all supporting Obama because he is the only candidate that makes sense. If Hillary gets the nomination, McCain will get our vote. Since when does an unpopular first lady translate into Presidential material? (Perhaps Bess Truman should have run). I see her as power hungry beyond belief and other than her stint in congress (only made so she could run for president), exactly what has she done? She has too much baggage, owes too many favors and , frankly, I was thrilled when the Clinton's were finally out of the White House will all their scandals. Tell me why anyone would want to go through all that garbage again. We have too much that needs doing. And I believe Obama is the one to do it.

Nancy, Fredericksburg, VA

I want to see on TV just one video tape where Obama and wife Michelle stood up and clapped right after Reverend Wright delivered one of his famous sermons.
Then it will prove to everybody that Michelle really mean every word when she said that she was never proud to be an American up until she sees a chance to become the country's First Lady.

may may, san antonio, usa

It is unfortunate that many Americans refuse to come to grips with the horrendous ordeal that many Americans besides Blacks have had to endure due to the core issues of racism, classim, and sexism in this society. Slavery, racial hatred and disenfranchisement of every right available is the historical experience of Blacks here in America. Thank Goddess/God that many of us have had the courage to up stand against oppression for all have benefited from the gains of the Black struggle. AND yes, much more work needs to be done. The recent win of a class action discrimination suit against the New York City Department of Parks and Recreation by a group of 3500 Blacks and Latinos proves that racism still exists. I know that the topic is painful for many, however, I can assure you the Black American will continue to lend a voice to the horrors of racial hatred as long as it exists. I commend Obama for having the courage to stand up and tell the truth. Only the truth will set us free.

Pearl, New York, New York

How many of us heard from our parents "You are who you associated with." - this goes for Barack Obama. Spewing hate from ANY pulpit is despicable in a house of the Lord and should never be rationalized. Obama used this church for its area popularity and political advantage ie: he is every bit as much a politician as his opponents. He wears NO halo. Many friends of a youthful Barack had no idea that his real name wasn't Barry - as that is what he used & what they knew him by for MANY years Clearly he went to Barack to appeal to the black community -after moving to Chicago and deciding to run for state public office.

I have nothing against Barack - but I also have no illusions about him. Frankly, he has received tremendous support from a nearly universally swooning US media who has anointed him and given him a virtual pass on any real vetting - up to the Wright issue. The past few days have found the media once again returned to back to back pro-Obama reporting.

Maureen, Sumterville, Florida USA

For all those checking the polls on PA. NC etc..there is still at least three weeks to go before any of those contests...Obama's brilliant "race" speech will resurrect him from the wright association. Its only a matter of time that the media focus its discerning lens on Clintons. He has already won the nomination. I just hope that there is enough time before november to put mccain through a "vetting" process.

chaney, London, England, UK

As a Democrat who will support the nominee, I say to Obama supporters - don't let the door hit you on the way out if you prefer not to vote for a winner, Hillary Clinton!

Obama and his racist pastor Wright will not get the support of Independents or working middle class Democrats.

Obama is simply unelectable!

Fred C Dobbs, San Diego, CA

Why is the media paying so much attention to Obama's preacher? And none at all to McCain's rightwing minister pal and Clinton's membership in a group of Religious Extremists?

jayil, london, uk

Bill Clinton said Senator Obama's voting record was "fa airy tale" , he also said Jessie Jackson won South Carolina, he was accused of injecting race into the campaign although for the life of me I can' understand why that is considered injecting race into the campaign. Perhaps Bill Clinton thought he was dealing with a regular candidate and as such would deal with him as a regular candidate. Instead he was attacked. If a white man was associated with a person like Pastor Wright it would be all over as soon as it became public knowledge. I believe that Senator Obama and his wife share a lot of the views of Rev. Wright. I will not vote for Senator Obama under any circumstances!

Fran, Maspeth , New York

I am willing to bet these polls were taken after the controversy but before the sincere and inspiring speech in Pennsylvania.

Wright is not exactly black African in appearance anyway, and is clearly a bumbling, bitter old man.

Ben, York,

At one time Oprah attended the same church but left because she did not like Rev. Wright's controversial preachings. Wright then turned on Oprah for leaving her "traditional faith." Why did Obama not leave as well? If he had taken that step, that would have sent a heavy message to Wright that those types of sermons are not welcome if we are trying to bring unity among all people in this country. It would also have made him far more electable. He would be seen as being couragous instead he's viewed as a coward. In his speech on Tuesday why did he align his 85year old grandmother with his pastor? In his book he states that his grandmother was worried about an agressive black panhandler, yet in his speech he casts her as a white racist. Barack has yet to realize you can't have your cake and eat it too.

Josie, seattle, usa

I can't really wrap my small, narrow mind around the idea that whoever gets the most elected delegates should win. If that's the case then what's the point of the Democratic Party having superdelegates, anyway? Superdelegates were concocted as a way of avoiding another situation where the Party hardcore nominated another disaster like George McGovern. Either let them vote their conscious and judgement or don't have them. Most superdelegates are elected officials in their own right, so it's hard to argue they don't have some base of popular support.

Chris Roland, Salt Lake City, USA

If a black politician in Chicago isn't a member of one of the larger black churches he has a snowball's chance in hell of winning ANY election. There are absolutely no, let me repeat myself, NO larger black churches that come equipped with a preacher that doesn't occasionally make the kinds of comments that Rev. Wright made an will continue to make. Please take a look at the comment from J. Ram Ray, Silver Spring, USA - MD. I'm also a former resident of Chicago and his (or her) comment rings very true. The reason I'm so passionate about this is because I've sat in those kinds of sermons and I've listened to some of those kinds of comments (Rev. Wright's) and I, like probably 99% of black people who've done the same, leave with absolutely no since of hatred or any kind of disdain toward white people nor toward American in general. You should search deep within before you decide to judge Obama's character by the comments of Rev. Wright.

Paul, Sacramento, CA

Just today, the New York Times published a picture of the same Rev. Wright and Bill Clinton warmly embracing in the White House. He was invited by engraved invitation.

Wright's connection with Obama is being stupidly twisted. He has never been designated any kind of spokesman for Obama.

I suspect if you were to show a selection of videos from many American preachers, you would raise eyebrows.

The late Jerry "Jabba the Hutt" Falwell used to sell videos at his services that suggested the Clintons had Vince Foster murdered.

Pat Robertson has numerous times blamed specific groups of Americans for bringing on God's vengeance in the form of natural disasters such as hurricanes.

Oral Roberts went up to the "Prayer Tower" at the "university" he named after himself to go on a hunger strike until his faithful fleeced flock coughed up another several million bucks in donations, and they did.

Scientology in the 1960s was everywhere talked of as a cult at best. It actually was widely regarded as an organized fraud and was investigated a number of times in various jurisdictions. Then the miracle of political influence somewhere gave them tax-exempt status with America's Internal Revenue Service, and they became, overnight, a (sort of mainline) religion keeping more out of each fee they charge followers.

Oh, by the way, a former church minister to the Clintons is being tried for child molestation.

JOHN CHUCKMAN, toronto, Canada

Am i the only person in the US who noticed that there are more than a few a few White people that attends that services and are members of Rev. Wrights church. Has anyone asked their opinion of the sermons, and why they still attend the church. They must have heard the same sermons that we now see at least 20 times or more per day. It really takes away from the more important issues. of the campaign. I feel that the people who want better relations between the races will strive to make it so, and those that chose to be bigot will continue to be divided. Let's get back to the issues at hand it you can't help don't hurt.

Sandra, fort Lauderdale, FL

I do understand Barack Obama reasoning for addressing the issue on Dr. Wright. Personally, I don't think he should have addressed it. Now, he's percieved has a liar and spineless. I can appreciate what he was trying to do, but you can not solve an age-old problem with one speech.

By spliting the Democratic party with trash and below-the-belt strategies what good does it do? McCain willl probably win because I was told by a Republican we need to stay in the war because by ending the war it would be economically disasterous because what jobs do we have to offer for the soldiers if they return to the United States?

I do not believe that Barack Obama is entirely tarnished because people all over the world and the United States know how unscruplous America is. They know that we fight dirty because it is our nature.For a country that is suppose to be so up-scale this is a raunchy place to live.

The general election will be interesting.

Elaine, Dallas,

Can't stop snickering at Governor Bill Richardson calling Obama a "once-in-a-lifetime" leader today.

Nevermind the 100+ times Obama abstained from voting in the Senate on issues of controversy. Yeah, great leadership. Duck and hide, baby.

The Wright stuff doesn't bother me so much. If you can't vent in church, where can you vent? But the menacing footage of Wright is undeniably a gift to the Republicans. This is not going to play well in places like Ohio, Michigan or Pennsylvania.

To the Britons reading: If you ever wonder why Democrats don't win more often, it is because they are inept politically. Never underestimate the Democratic Party's ability to implode. They are masters of self-destruction.

I say McCain wins in 2008 by an even wider margin than Bush did in 2004.

Love from Texas.

Ken, Lamesa, Texas

On September 11, 2001 as I watched in horror the second plane aimed itself at the remaining twin tower and in a few short seconds it exploded into it's side and I knew without a doubt that the country which I call home was under attack.

I ran to the back of the house to wake my mother and tell her what happened. She turned over in her bed and when I finished blurting out that the country had been attacked, her response to me was this. "America is just getting back what she has dished out for 150 years. I am not surprised". She turned over and went back to sleep.

I began to think of the things that America has done and I wondered if we truly were reaping what we had sown.

Let's start with Slavery. For 240 plus years America bought and sold human beings against their will. Slave owners tortured, murdered, dehumanized, degraded and humiliated this group of people to the point that they lost their humanity. I could go on and on and on. There's not room, but you get it

Marti, Chicago, Illinois

The controversy over Obama's preacher is just the veil finally being lifted from the ex-Democrat favourite. He wants both sides at once (both authentic anti white blackness ) and the white vote (which could have handed him the presidency). However, the two are not reconcilable. Only people who feel that antiwhite racism and antisemitism is acceptable (and should be shouted from the pulpit) would be able to listen to preacher Wright's statements (and his affiliation with the demagogue anti American muslim Farrakhan) without being nauseated and disgusted. The democrats can try and spin it all they want, but their boy is basically just another unprincipled power hungry politician. The fact that he would have won the nomination demonstrates once again the absolute vacuum at the heart of the democratic party. If you want a good performer, vote Obama. If you want a leader and a real American hero, vote McCain.

Ben, Hopatcong, NJ

I think Obama is being hurt by his own integrity. To me, saying the words were wrong and not throwing an old friend under the bus - is a sign of integrity AND his Christian values. I wonder how many reporters it took to sift through years of sermons and to come up with that tape. Being the front runner made him the target of everyone. Frankly, I think he has handled the situation in the best possible way; honestly, openly and trusting the good judgment of the American people. I think his mistake, however, is over estimating the good judgment of most Americans. I'm ashamed of many Americans right now. . (Oops, I shouldn't have said that - people will think I'm Un-American for speaking the truth!

Nancy , Alexandria, VA

To David in Omaha:

How do you have an "honest debate" with people who refuse to vote on any issues of controversy and constantly change their position according to snap opinion polls?

And what Republicans are "tearing down" Obama for Jeremiah Wright?

If you say Rush or Hannity, they're not Republicans. They do not hold office. They are conservative commentators. Hannity frequently says he is not a Republican but an independent conservative, and Rush won't even do events for the RNC.

Likewise, when I want to find out Obama's positions, I don't tune in to Al Franken or Michael Moore. I go to the actual source--His record, which is utterly filled with "abstain" votes on nearly all important issues of controversy.

Change? What change? It's the same childish nonsense from Obama. Dodging controversy, avoiding the issues, and throwing bags of cotton candy at the audience.

Promise all things to all people without any mention of the cost. That's the Dems' strategy.

Ken, Lamesa, Texas

Obama should have ditched Wright the first time he made such odious comments. With the comments of his wife to add to those of Wright, it does make you wonder just who Obama really is.

To me Clinton is unelectable, Obama is making himself so, both are poisoning the electorate against each other, so who does it leave? McCain as president, or Nader for those who wont vote Republican under any circumstances, and would rather throw their vote away.

What disaster this pair or turning out to be.

Neil Murphy, cromer,

If you have never been in an inner city black church, it is diificult to grasp the level of itensity in which the preacher's words are articulated. Americans are addicted to the sound bite diet and Rev Wirghts fiery delivery makes for good TV, but does not show the other side of the man who has so helped his community. While I do find Rev Wright's choice of words offensive, American has wronged many around the world and has not lived up to the greatness for which we all are proud of. That was his message.

Janett, Lake Tahoe,

I am a lifelong Republican. I was going to vote for Obama if he became the nominee, however, after watching the tapes of Rev. Wright and putting two and two together, I can't bring myself to vote for him now. Obama has been endorsed by Louis Farrakhan and the Black Panther Party. He has not come out and strongly rejected their endorsements. That should tell us something. In addition, I don't understand how he & his wife could allow their daughters to be subjected that hateful, racist teaching. Sorry - this is scary and VERY telling!

Anna, Berkeley, CA,

I can't believe people are blaming Hillary Clinton for who Husseim Obama really is. Wake up and smell the coffee. Obama is Obama, and anyone voting for him will be out of their mind.

gfab, los angeles, california

I am a Hillary supporter. I feel she is the best candidate for the presidency at this time. I have compassion for what Mr. Obama and our nation is going through. I believe that African Americans have had a unique historical and current social experience and are justifiably angry. The filter that an African American sees the USA world through is very different as a result. I understand what Mr. Obama is trying to teach us collectively and I believe it is an important lesson for this nation to come together in healing our wounds. It is time to change our collective story to one of unity and oneness. For that I am deeply hopeful that our nation will take that next step toward healing. For me this does not change the fact that I believe that Ms. Clinton is our best choice for leadership. Mr. Obama is a great national and world figure and leader and I'm certain that if he does not secure the presidential nomination this time, we have far from seen the last of him or his greatness

anna garcia, carpinteria, ca

Enough already!!!! on the Mr. Wright issue. Wright does not prove anything in re: Mr. Obama. Mr. Wright is a matter of implying. Wow!!! You know everyone has an opinion, an we know what that 's Opinions are like ...... everyone has one!

Kimba, Lynn, Ma

If Hillary Clinton succeeds in swift boating Barack Obama, I will, for the first time in my life, either vote Republican or not vote at all in the Presidential election. The methods she has resorted to in trying to bully her way to the Presidency shows EXACTLY what kind of President she would make. Obama has made me believe in hope again. Clinton shows old style politics that rip participation in American politics from the hands and hearts of real people.

Sheri, canton, Ohio

It does not matter what Obama had tried to persuade the American public and voters, his association and connection with some one like Mr. Wright actually proves that he implicitly agrees and applauds Mr. Wright's anti-American rhetorics. I'm skeptical his sincerity and probably so are American voters.

Tracy Ngo, Hawthorne, California, USA

These comments have been an interesting read. That you at least for comments that rise above the usual blogs, often mean spirited.

I will digest this food for thought and come to the best decision I can.

Marie, Columbia, USA/SC

"Add to that the fact that Obama has now alienated millions of voters in two pivotal states, Florida and Michigan, and you have an almost certain Republican victory in November."

Obama hasn't alienated them. Clinton has turned many of the less informed (who have always been her target audience) against Obama by misrepresenting his position on the Florida and Michigan primaries and possible revotes. Obama has consistently said that he'll play by the rules. Clinton, on the other hand, first asserted that the January primaries were illegitimate, then (after getting the votes in those illegitimate January primaries) asserted that the January primaries should count, and is now seeking a revote that would exclude many potential Obama supporters from even participating.

It is painful to see such an exceptional candidate be damaged by the unsavory tactics and personal ambitions of Hillary Clinton. We have a real gem in Obama, and we're on the brink of losing him.

Walter, Colorado Springs, Colorado

Do people really think that Wright preached hate and anger in all his sermons, every Sunday, week after week, for 20 years??? How stupid people are. Wright preached about love, family, God, and all other good Christian messages for the vast majority of the time. Why can't people get this? They sure are suckers for believing the worst in people. I'm beginning to think Obama is just too good, and the USA doesn't deserve him. What a pity.

Chris, Preston, England

Damaged his electabilty? Gee, ya think? Right now there are millions of white Americans out there who were starting to think that maybe, just maybe, Barack Obama might really be a new kind of black political figure. But these people have now have now had their fears by the videotapes of Rev. Wright's delusional, ranting, paranoid racism and Obama's long-time association with him. Despite all the lofty rhetoric, at the core Barack Obama is nothing but a re-hash of the same tired black victimization mentality that we've been hearing from the likes of Jesse Jackson for decades. If Barack Obama is the Democratic nominee, moderate and conservative white Democrats, especially in the south, will cross over to John McCain in droves. As a long-time McCain supporter, I am absolutely loving this.

Dan, San Diego, CA

Obama is the best candidate among the three remaining contestants. It is unfortunate and unforgivable for the Republicans and the Clintons to capitalize on what a pastor said to discredit Obama. Whoever does not vote for Obama because of his pastor was not going to vote for him anyway. Whoever uses this link to discredt Obama is a latent racist who is merely using the pastor's comments as a cover.

If the pastor's statements are more offensive than what Bush and Republicans have put this country through- then something is seriously wanting in American psyche and the way the country chooses its leaders.

Race is America's original sin and if it is not handled well by people being open about it and seeing the need to understand and appreciate one another as Obama stated in his speech, it will cause a major schism in the body politic and subsequent fall of the country from its current glory because a third Bush term in the name of McCain will be a disaster.

George, Downtown,

I'm a Republican, but I'm not as offended by Dr. Wright's comments as are some others. Understanding the historical black church rhetorical devices, as well as being open to self-critique because it is inherently American, I don't think Dr. Wright is quite as controversial as some would make him out to be. Most pastors would not want the snippets from their worst sermons over 40 years being aired. I'll cut the guy some slack.

However... it is equally apparent that Sen. McCain is far and away more prepared to be President. While these relatively inexperienced Democrat Senators- Obama and Clinton- tear each other apart, McCain is visiting troops in Iraq, holding his tongue, and coming across as much more Presidential.

He is a man who knows the suffering of war, but also the cost of defeat. He has actually practiced bi-partisan leadership, and he oozes experience.

Britons should not be surprised when the US elects another GOP President in November.

Christian, Des Moines, Iowa

This poll is a bit premature. The depth of Senator Obama's Philadelphia speech needs time to sink in to the general electorate. This is a fascinating litmus test of the American people--if the balance, progressiveness, and openness to differing viewpoints (so entirely alien to the current President and Administration) find purchase, Obama will rise to the top once again (and probably for good, until the general election campaign begins). If the American people as a whole (read: the lower 50 percentile in both education and tolerance) continue to shun Obama because of this one issue, well then, racism is alive and THRIVING in these "United" States of America. Let's wait and see what happens. . .

Stephen C, Seattle, USA

Obama has been making his entire campaign about race, and now he is upset that the campaign is about race.

Interesting.

Patrick Henry, Bristol,

Has anyone noticed Obama's lead in the NC polls have dwindled dramatically?

JC - Phila, PA

J Coleman, Philadelphia, PA

Wright didn't damage Obama.

B.O. wasn't forced to sit in his church for 20 years, or to accept him as friend and spiritual leader.

This is the first glimpse that most of us have had of the real Obama. Not the carefully scripted vacuous hope speeches that had been pre-tested by Patrick in Mass; but Obama himself.

Did you hear the booming voice :"Pay no attention to that man behind the curtain!"

Gary, Fairfax,

Given the amount of filth and dishonest the main stream media has been putting forward it's little surprise that more people are starting to believe the lies. First Obama was a Muslim, now he's an extremist Christian, next they'll probably claim he's part of a UFO cult.
If the media got down to the facts and the issues rather than doing their usual tabloid yellow journalism we'd see different poll results.

Doug, Wichita, KS

A racist of any color should never be accepted. That is the last thing our country needs now. We need true , honest unity, not just hatred in another form.

Lilthyme, Chelsea, USA

The American electorate have shown they are quite capable of destroying America without God's help.
George W Bush got elected twice, how dumb is that!

If Jesus was running against Barabbas,
Barabbas would come in with a huge majority. I mean..look who Jesus hung out with.
Barabbas would not want to look weak to his enemies. He was a man of action not words!

H L Walter, Louisville, KY

I think it is interesting that nearly all of the comments on this UK site are from Americans. It seems that you have strong views either way on all of this and it is your election not ours.

However my view from the country which is your best ally is this - vote for experience. Rhetorical vapour soon drifts into nothing. Good government is not vapour and comes from hard work and understanding.

John, Kenilworth,

Tim Reid seems a bit confused.Don't look directly at the fire. The inflammatory remarks only shed light on the real problem, which is Sen. Obama's 20+ year close association with their speaker.What makes his situation difficult is the speech he just gave.We "Blue Collar" types know when we are being condecended to. We can also recognize when he threw his grandmother under the bus while minimizing Rev. Wright's racism, blaming "Whitie" for causing said racism. Sen Obama was too slick by more than half. And, Jenkins is a real place.

Robert, Jenkins, MO USA

Hey people!

It is not about speeches.
It is about Ethics, Judgment, Trusting VS Nafta, Rezco, the Reverend.

So we have enough proofs to know what kind of politician Obama is.

franco varela, Chicago, Illinois

This is pretty much the end for him- even if elected it ensures he'll be a lame duck. Whilst I submit that a minority's frustration is a very different thing from oppressive racism pressing from above, prejudice is prejudice and it stinks. If it can at all be associated with him, it'll be his undoing.

Art of the problem is the obsession with political correctness in America, disk jockies and comedians losing their jobs- without being prejudiced people- for unguarded quips. Funnily enough, it's always the liberals that fall victim in these matters, as here is another case of someone who probably has no prejudice being made a scapegoat for those who really do!

We all need to be less ideological and less quick to judge. Having said that, rewarding racism or 'vengeful' underdog racism is also a bad idea, as it can have no place in a multi-cultural society. Where the limits of free speech really lie is still to be discovered- can we safely let off steam? Obama's best hope is denials.

G Davidson, Kashiwa, Japan

Hi American!

Please wake up, grow and speak like an adult. Honestly I am support Obama. In related of Wright,s speech, there is nothing to do with Obama. Obama does not know anything about that kind of phrases by Wright. We have to think why does Wright speech inappropriate?. This is a question that we have to come up with. Not blaimming on Obama.
Become a good person is always hard, there are many enemies, a lot of critics. If critics will make you more strength, go for it, response in passion and positive way. But do not worry Mr. Obama, you will be fine. Keep going with positive thinking and move on for America.

Sri, rialto, California

Read the man's rebuttal. It had me in tears. He speaks of family, freinds, and community. He's not mean spirited. He speaks for us all. I trust him.

Larry, Stratford,

Barrack Obama has based his campaign on hope. That is, the hope that he can mislead enough Americans with his "unity" and "change" message for long enough to be elected. He claims to have attended Rev. Wright's church for 20 years....let's see, that's over 1000 Sundays...and now claims he didn't know what the preacher was saying??? How gullible does he think we are? At first I too wanted to believe him, but no more. His wife says that his candidacy is the first time in her adult life that she's "proud" to be an American, his preacher says "G-d damn the USA," and claims that 9/11 and HIV/AIDS were conspiracies of the US government. Mr. Obama is lucky that we as Americans are tolerant. We may be tolerant, but I, as one voter, have come to realize that Mr. Obama's insincere rhetoric is simply not trustworthy. We have the choice of Obama's smooth talk to compare against Mr. McCain's lifetime of valor, service and fidelity to the USA. I'm glad to participate in that choice!

Brian, Dallas, Texas

Obama is best qualified to lead us in the coming economic crunch and consequent austerity. Between Clinton and McCain I do not see a great difference. I would prefer Hilary because I like watching her changing hairdos, outfits and facies, all helping keep my mind off the troubles of the USA in the critical times ahead. I would be most worried with McCain as president.

Maury Nordstrom, Durham, NC, USA

What is all the fuss?

Obama has stepped up to the plate, albeit when forced to do so, and been the first for many years to tackle some issues that desperately needed addressing. His candidacy is hugely enriched, not weakened, by his diversity of race and the opinions that he's encountered with that journey.

He may not be the most experienced; indeed we may find he can just talk and not walk, but what can not be denied is the tantalizing promise of something new.

The world will continue to watch with great interest the one and only remaining superpowers presidential elections. We are getting used to it now: Bush, Clinton, Bush, Clinton?

Ian, London,

"All that is required for evil to prevail is for good men to do nothing". --Edmund Burke

What did Obama do to stop the evil spouted by his preacher?

Nothing.

Shaun, Keene, NH

I have been a democrat most of my life, the exceptions being Nixon, Ronald Reagan. The democrats may get stuck with Obama, but that does not mean that I will be stuck.
If not Clinton, than it will be Mccain!

Frank, Vandalia, Oh

To answer the question: Yes, Obama’s association with Wright has gravely wounded him. Whether it will prove fatal depends on his ability to talk around the issue and also on just how much the media wants Hillary to win. Meanwhile, Obama supporters are in denial, very serious denial, about what this flap means to their candidate. His wife’s close to intemperate remarks in public got people’s attention. His pastor’s comments have made people think he might not have the judgment to be president. Just about any other person running for president has the foresight to distance him or herself well ahead of time from people that might prove embarrassing later. That Obama did not strongly suggests that he is seriously flawed in this regard.

Dave, Katy, USA

How many politicians wear flag pins? I have seen Republican on different TV show without flag pins on. What does a wearing an flag pin have to do with someone running for a political office.

Pat, White Plains,

Obama has not shown the courage of a true leader as he remained a member of a racist church for over 20 years and, until he was recently caught, did not do anything to remove himself and his family from it. I find it amusing that people want to give him credit for his speech on racism after he was caught being a member of a racist organization. I personally don't want to be preached to about the topic by someone that was a contributing member to a racist organization for over 20 years, no matter what he has to say.

Nelson, Wauwatosa, Wisconsin

What scares me is this:
How can someone that sits in church and hears his pastor speak hate of America for 20 years (without leaving that church or disagreeing until challenged) be the person in the best position to negotiate for American interests? This problem for Obama has nothing to do with his race, it has everything to do with the hate and contempt that some have for their own country. How am I to know that he does not totally agree with Reverend Wrights hate of America. How do I know that he would always be looking out for America's best interest?

John, Auburn, Alabama

I read the speech that Barack Obama and I must say I found it shocking, provocative and disturbing. Obama admits that there are strongly and widely held, anti-white, anti-establishment views in the Black community. He makes no apology for them; indeed he seems to credit their source as having been born in our imperfect Constitution and a product of a society that imposed slavery and Jim Crow on the people for years.

Never does he suggest that perhaps it is time for the madness to end, that the Black community must turn the page. Instead he suggests that he must come to the larger society and heal it of its racist beliefs and tendencies. In his cool, egomaniacal way he declaims that he himself embodies the healing that is necessary.

Should he not be working, agitating even, within his own community, starting in his Church, to end such divisiveness?

Or is he simply the emissary, a Trojan Horse , sent to educate and heal non-black America? Either way it's not for me.

Pete Kent, Union, KY USA

I think this whole rev. wright thing is just the thing the republican wanted to bring this man down.As you see the american people acted just as the republicans want .You changed your minds so quickly , so we get what we deserver another four yrs of bush clinton, so i tell you go ahead and do your work america, slam a man for something thats not that important in the runnning of the country, A little word to the networks you are just as gulity as the republican, running this sound bite over and over as the lady on msnbc said the preacher that said new got what it devserver from hurrican never got play like this so who said you are fair, race and negativity sales.As a voter i will not be voting in this election, if this kinda thing is what we are all about, America again will be laughing stock aroud the world

kevikev, st louis, missouri

I wasn't going to vote for Obama anyway, but I think this pretty much sinks his ship. How can Americans expect to vote for someone who belongs to such an imflammatory church and not only belongs to it but contributes to it. The media's double standard is blantantly obvious in their attempts to sweep this scandal under the rug while highlighting every white wing nut-job that supports John McCain. Wake up America!! Your choice is between an individual who loved his country so much that he suffered for many many years getting beaten in a POW camp in Vietnam and a candidate who won't even wear an American flag pin and goes to a church which preaches God D*&^ America. Is there really even a choice? McCain 2008.

Jared, Washington DC,

I hope Obama will loose, besides should European stay away from USA like they don't have their own problems

nieznajoma, lodz, poland

A deep racial divide has reopened in my country, probably the biggest since the OJ verdict. Obama fails to provide details of what he would do. Bush came in 2000 as the change candidate, but American seemed to be making the same mistake again. He's a great speaker with a thin resume. No candidate is perfect and he needs more seasoning before he makes the big jump. We could see a third Bush term (in McCain) if he is the nominee and the Democrats will lose in what should have a been a certain win. It will not happen with this inexperienced man.

Joseph Wilson, Atlanta, Georgia

The attack on Obama combines guilt by association with a deeply impoverished understanding of most whites of the black church and black culture.

First of all if fair play means anything it means you cannot hang someone because of the group to which they belong. This brings a hint of MCCarthyism to the already troubled politics of race. Secondly, noone seems to understand that at its core what Rev. Wright is talking about is the human suffering that has defined the meaning of race for the "civil rights " generation of black people. Racism has scarred them in two ways, first it made them unequal, secondly it left them wounded and bitter.

Obama represents a different generation and throughout his life and his campaign challenged the older blacks to exchange their anger for reconciliation and their social isolation for empowerment. He represents not merely the best Presidential candidate but America's best chance for racial reconciliation since Dr. King.

D. Marvin Jones, Miami, Florida

Senator Obama says that he wants to be the President who transcends bigotry and hatred, yet he continues to belong to an organization that gave a lifetime achievement award to a man (Louis Farrakhan) who openly and publicly refers to Jews as "bloodsuckers." Apparently, Mr. Obama has no problem honoring people who hate Jews. I voted for Obama in the California primary. Now that I see who he really is, I wish I could take my vote back.

Tom Davis, Irvine, California, USA

Amazing. When Black Americans talk about slavery...White America says "It wasn't me" but if a Black man says anything about the COUNTRY being ruled by "rich white people" suddenly he is talking about ALL white people. It is obvious that racism has caused a sort of paranoid defensiveness and now we can not move beyond to examine the BIGGER issues that threaten this country. Barack Obama is the type of PERSON we need in office. The world will continue to laugh at us and we will rot on a steady diet of own self-righteousness.

Courikym, New Jersey USA,

Earth to Democrats ... All you had to do was run Gore again and you would have been assured a victory. Instead you managed to find the only two people who could possibly loose to McCain. I ask you this as a conservative Republic. Did you ever want to win this election?

Doug Forbes, Columbus, USA

If this information had come out from day one he would not be where he is; but, here we all stand. Just a couple of hours ago, Senator Kerry, Obama's starch supporter, said that Obama is the only candidate that can legitimatize the Muslim religion. I am now more confuse. Is he a Christian who for 23 years listen to hate messages from a black separatist? Is he a Muslim in sheep's clothing? Is he an opportunistic politician? Whatever the answer is it does him no good. I would expect the Super Delegates to get a back-bone and do the right thing.

Lou , Mimai, Florida

Obama did not say he had never heard Wright make controversial comments. All he said was that he had not heard him speak the particular words that were getting so much attention. Obama and others who attend the church also have said the church is not in any way hate-filled, and that the brief clips of Wright being widely circulated are highly unrepresentative of the man's 30 years of preaching.

John Lane, Phila, USA/PA

What "speech" did Obama make that is similary to Kerry's "anti-war" speech?

Anthony, Walnut Creek, CA

It is hilarious to me how sanctimonious people are being about the remarks of Pastor Wright. Obama sat in the pews for 20 years... So what? Really people, in the end, who cares? It is amazing that such a double standard exists in this case. Obama says that Wright has both good and bad elements about his character: he lead him to Jesus Christ, but he thinks that America is an inherently racist place that deserves the attacks that it gets. Now, John McCain actively seeks out Reverend Ron Parsely, a man who he said is his spiritual advisor, who claims that homosexuals are an abomination, has hinted that blacks should be aborted, and has said numerous anti-Semitic remarks. John McCain also said he welcomed the endorsement of Minister John Hagee who says that Catholicism is "the Great Whore" of the world and that Hurricane Katrina was brought down upon the people of New Orleans as punishment for the fact that there was going to be a gay pride parade occurring a couple of days later.

LeRoy , New York/Huntington, U.S.A./England

I'm a grandmother in that age group of women who supposedly support Hillary. (Every time I read that, I want to scream, NO, NOT ME..I'M SMARTER THEN THAT!")

Obama is the person this country needs right now. It is obvious that he has those born leadership skills that can't be learned or gathered by "experience" or osmosis. Someone who understands what makes people tick and can communicate to them. A very important gift during this economic crisis. Someone who is pragmatic and can garnish respect around the world. Obama already has that respect in Europe, Canada and several other countries where he is very popular. Hillary, although extremely ambitious does not have those gifts. She comes across as abrasive and I fear she will not play well on the world stage. I am hoping that intelligent, forward thinking Americans will see through all this current racial garbage which, I felt, was handled in the best possible way by Obama - head on like a real leader.

Nan, Fredericksburg, VA

Those of you who have responded from Canada and the UK urging Americans to elect Obama, need to realize that he, by his voting record, is the most liberal of all Democratic Senators. He's on the far left of his party and is supported by the Socialist George Soros.

We don't want to be like you having the Government take care of us from the sperm to the worm, nor do we want your tax structure, nor your limited personal freedoms, which we fought so hard against in 1776.

We don't trust a man's judgment, who sits in a church for 20 years associating himself with a hate monger, on top of that calls him, Uncle." We would be glad to ship Obama to you, since to love him so much.

David B. Monier-Williams Scottsdale AZ

David B. Monier-Williams, Scottsdale , US Arizona

In deciding the President, we have every right to know who we are electing and up until now, no one knew who Obama was. The details have just started to emerge. And anyone who is listening to the bumper sticker slogans and believing them needs a good dose of reality.
I live in Chicago Illinois, sadly Chicago is known for being THE most corrupt city in the US. I did not vote for any of our elected politicians. Let me tell you about Obama. He has been in the senate for two years and has been campaigning for president and promoting his book ever since. He was brought to Chicago by Tony Rezko, who helped Obama buy a house he couldn't afford. He was propelled into Chicago politics by Rezko (who is on trial now) and Mayor Daly, and Rod Blagojevich, our Governer who is close to being indicted for his own misdeeds. Whenever Obama was asked how he got entangled with Rezko he was not forthcoming until he was fs forced. There's alot more. He's a phony & this isn't the kind of change we need!

Julie, Chicago, IL

Barack Obama has been seriously damaged. IF he gets the nomination... he'll lose the general to McCain. Obama is fatally flawed with excessive arrogance, a sense of entitlement to the Presidency, an exceedingly thin resume, poor judgment on an array of issues, dishonesty, and a very thin skin when it comes to being challenged. He's soft, not tough enough to survive the Republican machine. I'm an Independent stating the facts.

As recently as last Friday Mr. Obama lied to America. He said on several major news outlets that he had NEVER heard the Minister utter any incendiary remarks on race etc. while he attended church. In his speech... YES he had heard the Minister make incendiary/controversial comments while in Church. The Obama campaign lied for months about his ties to Tony Rezko and how much money they had taken from him over the years. It was $50,000 but hey last Friday all of a sudden its $250,000.

Obama's flaws are HIS flaws... not guilt by association.

Stan, LA,

Barack Obama has been seriously damaged. IF he gets the nomination... he'll lose the general to McCain. Obama is fatally flawed with excessive arrogance, a sense of entitlement to the Presidency, an exceedingly thin resume, poor judgment on an array of issues, dishonesty, and a very thin skin when it comes to being challenged. He's soft, not tough enough to survive the Republican machine. I'm an Independent stating the facts.

As recently as last Friday Mr. Obama lied to America. He said on several major news outlets that he had NEVER heard the Minister utter any incendiary remarks on race etc. while he attended church. In his speech... YES he had heard the Minister make incendiary/controversial comments while in Church. The Obama campaign lied for months about his ties to Tony Rezko and how much money they had taken from him over the years. It was $50,000 but hey last Friday all of a sudden its $250,000.

Obama's flaws are HIS flaws... not guilt by association.

Stan, LA,

While I in no way support Sen. Obama's candidacy, to say that Reverend Wright made racist comments about the Clintons is a factual error. While disparaging, the comments did not imply that the Clinton's were inferior because of their race, only that they didn't share in the black experience. Just because Wright is a racist and anti-semite doesn't mean his widely circulated rantings from the pulpit on Billary were racist.

If he did indeed level racist remarks at the Clintons, then those specific statements should be identified in the article.

The term "racist" is bandied about carelessly by journalists, and I hoped our British cousins would use the term more responsibly than many American media, especially considering how damaging such a charge can be to one's reputation.

Obama has a lot of questions to answer and no record to back up his claim to be either bipartisan or a leader.

John McCain is the obvious choice in 2008.

Bill, Tampa, Tampa, FL, USA

To Doug Cornish from Canada
Let me get this right.....I am supposed to exchange a Republican President for Sen Obama?? Someone whose rhetoric espouses unity....but whose actions are clearly separatist and a double standard for whites and black?
For his Rev. - he says we should look at the whole man and the good he has done...
But for Imus, (who is white) his ranch for children with cancer, etc don't count? Obama said he should lose his livelihood.
Something not quite fair in his actions. And they carry a bigger convincing factor for me than his speeches.

Tom S., Falcon, CO

Fred, the very article you linked included an immediate statement from the Bush denouncing the views expressed. If you believe that incident is similar to Wright's decades of sermons, you are either blinded by ideology or incapable of rational analysis. Based on your assesment of the roots of 9-11, I'd guess it's a combination of the two.

There is a vast difference between accepting someone's support (Bush from Falwell, Obama from Farrakhan etc) and joining a church, donating over 20K, and referring to the pastor regulary spewing hate as a mentor (Obama and Wright). It's also interesting that Falwell's comments immediately made headlines around the nation, but no one reported on the radical left comments from pastors like Wright until forced to.

As for the international readers who are concerned about the direction of the US, there is a way you can affect change. Move here, become citizens, and vote. It's worked out fine for tens of millions of your former countrymen.

Chg, Greenwood, South Carolina

Rick in Seattle says "We need a president that has his kind of experience, what i mean by this is, a president that will respect the justice legal system and not abuse it like the bush administration has. "
Obama has admitted to abusing cocaine. So much for respecting the legal justice system.
"A president that has not been corrupted in washington so that he may work for the people who elected him to office and not people that put him in office. "
No, he's been corrupted in Chicago. I'm not just referring to Tony Rezko, I'm also including the corrupted hatemongering of The Right Reverend Racist Wright.
"A president that will bring direction and instill confidence in our country both at home and abroad.This is important to Americas future in the world and will promote americas long term security and leadership in the world."
In other words, a Savior. How pathetic. I want a president who will take less than twenty percent of my income so I can do my Pursuit of Happiness thing.

russ, Seattle, USA

The chances that Senator Obama can be elected president are very slim and yes, the main reason is the inflammatory rantings of his pastor. However, a larger issue is the fact that the Democrats depend heavily on the support of the black communiity and Obama has not been abandoned by the african-american vote. The dilemma the Democratic leadership faces is whether they select Obama over Hillary Clinton in spite of the (likely) delegate count and risk losing the participation of the black vote with the implied risk of losing many competitive races at the congessional level, or..... they go with Obama, respect the likely delegate count and hope that there will be enough african-american participation to secure the Democratic majority in spite of losing the presidency. this is a very likely scenario since american voters have a proclivity for voting one way for congress and a different way for the presidential ticket. A tough choice indeed and I do not envy Speaker Pelosi or Sen Reid.

Rob Burger, Ann Arbor, Michigan

Wow!. I felt the same about Kerry in the last election. I had never, ever voted Republican. I remember how he had the chance in the Phillipines to stand up for democracy when Marcos was stealing (literally) the election and chose not. I remember his anti-war speeches about US soldier committing ware crimes and thinking he is only doing this to get elected. He sounded like a cheap, politician playing a tragedy for his own gain.

Now the Democrats have another hack politician as a candidate wasting a historic opportunity. Sure wish Colin Powell had run. Now we can chose between someone who was tortured serving his country and someone who thinks the typical white folk, including those who are grandchildren of abolitionists and those who worked for civil rights, need to understand and accept the hate speech of black separatism.

bill, Golden Valley, MN

Obama response to this is raising more questions regarding his credibility. I would question anyone who would send his family to this hate filled church. His ability to win in the general election is over. 20 years associated with this "church" and Obama knows nothing. What kind of President would he be?

Steve, Phoenix, USA

I wish more americans could be as intelligent and not afraid of change (and everything else, for that matter) as some of the europeans posting on here. How do you people do it? I know everybody's political system has problems, but how do you get past the fearmongering, the hate, and the politics of scaring people into who to vote for?

And if all else fails... how do you feel about this american moving over there if Mccain or Hillary get elected? Sometimes I just don't think I can tolerate living here anymore.

Evan, Lansing, MI

Obama had his chance to end his connection with Rev Wright but he decided not too. Obama chose to stay with Rev Wright and the american people have chosen to leave Obama!!!

michael Lovelace, estill, sc

The Clinton News Network is not going to hoodwink me. I'm casting my vote for Sen. Obama in the general election.

Jeanie, Lynchburg, USA

Jeffrey,

What you heard is absolutely not true. It is a rumor spread by ignorant and uninformed people. Do not base who you want to vote on by what others tell you.

Evan, Lansing, MI

Ignorance doesn't want change.

James M, Boston, MA

It is radiculous that the superdelegates should follow the voters when they were created for an independent and judgemental say in the final decision of the candidate. If you think this rule is undemocratic, then how could you argue that Michagan and Florida delegates should not be seated because of they voted legally earlier? You can not go both ways, right? Either let the delegates from the two states seated or give the superdelegates the right to make their decision based on their judgement instead of voters.

Sam, Palo Alto, CA

I'm an American. I grew up saying the pledge of allegiance, at school, at baseball games, at church on days where they honored America. Our troops salute the flag everytime they pass it, whether anyone is watching or not. They are trained to die for it and spill their precious life giving blood for it. I heard Obama will not say the pledge. How can the commander in chief of the armed forces command 5 different brances of the military which will die for the flag, if he won't even admonish it. I think he is not for America, now or for ever, and whomever elected him as a Senator, should also not be respected by other Americans.

Jeffrey Dunham, Yacolt, WA USA

As a former Chicagoan, I continue to monitor the fallout from the Obama speech, and the genesis of the entire episode, with sadness and a sense of a rare opportunity breaking free and floating away. I always thought Chicago has a high threshold for accepting things that are not acceptable, be it corruption by public officials, or racist talk by Black leaders. Rev. Wright's talk is "Chicago." It gets a pass in Chicago because it's considered local "Black" talk and not mainstream discourse - you didn't hear that stuff from Jesse Jackson! Other Black leaders in Chicago, like Lou Palmer, used to spread similar culture of race hate, but they were strictly local. The City's power elite warehoused all unwanted humans and all the toxic waste (literally) in the far south side, gave them a "Black" industry consisting of the CHA, City Colleges and a few City agencies, and let the Blacks community develop it's own underclass subculture, including an ethos of race hate. City Hall's attitude, in the olden days at least, used to be "run your fiefdom anyway you want - we don't care as long as you keep it within your confines and don't try to play the big league game, meaning the contracts for multi-million$ public contracts". Those that get an education and get good jobs had to live with that subculture - the price of remaining in the communities where they grew up. Obama is "Chicago" and accepted his pastor's pronouncements as part of the cultural landscape - he should have shown some leadership in that church or should have politely pulled himself away. He will pay a big price for that mistake.

J. Ram Ray, Silver Spring, USA - MD

I applaud what Mike Huckabee said about not judging someone by someone else's words. He also added that though, Wrights comments were wrong, he understood the hardship that many black people, of that age, had to deal with growing up in the deep south. I am younger & from the east. The only black student in 5th grade, I was stoned and called racist names. I have white friends who"ve said they were intimated because of how my husband looks. He is a retired U.S. Marine and firefighter. He is also a product of a bi-racial marriage. With racist attitudes on his white mothers side, he still loves these people. I've heard racist, negative American comments by white pastors, especially after 9/11 and Katrina. I am sure these people are loved by people that disagree with them. With a son going to Afghanistan, already served in Iraq, my vote is for Obama. In this personal crisis, he's still transparent. Imagine that in a leader! He shows the personal character I have seen and admired in McCain.

Grace, Federal Way, Washington

To set the record straight for those who continue to say that Obama reversed himself, his exact quotes were this:

Obama's actual quote on Friday was, "The statements that Rev. Wright made that are the cause of this controversy were not statements I personally heard him preach while I sat in the pews of Trinity or heard him utter in private conversation."

In his speech yesterday he said, "Did I know him to be an occasionally fierce critic of American domestic and foreign policy? Of course. Did I ever hear him make remarks that could be considered controversial while I sat in church? Yes. Did I strongly disagree with many of his political views? Absolutely"

Last night on Anderson Cooper 360's show, Obama again reiterated that he had not seen the EXACT EXCEPRTS that had been played over and over on TV, which is NOT the same thing as saying he's heard some "remarks that were controversial".

People are selective listeners, and mis-quote things terribly!

JGM, Denver, Colorado, United States

It desperately needs to be noted -

We have been provided with 45 seconds (out of 3,000 hours of video) with which to judge a man, in order to judge a man who associates with him.

If there was any video evidence (other than 3 snippits from a 25 year career) that these rants were in any way representative of his sermons, we'd certainly see it. We have thousands of media reps, surrogates and special interest parties scouring through years and years worth of video for more. Looking to show a pattern. Looking to post it against the church's attendance records to show Obama was there.

And if that evidence existed? It would be the biggest news story in 50 years. Thousands of motivated politicians looking for the gun to put Obama in his political grave. Where is it? Where is the evidence that suggests that this rant is representative? Where is the evidence that Obama was there for any of these rants?

Nope. We just go where we're told. No questions.

We are sheep.

JWilson, Crown Point, IN

Live with Hillary. All of the male leaders of the US have failed to achieve prosperity to their country, now I think the time did come for the Americans to elect a woman. Mrs Clinton will lead America for he forefront of the nations and she will keep states in the first place. Don't miss the opportunity.

Ismail Rabah, Gaza , Palestine

I have not voted Republican inmy life and yet I will not vote for Obama, simply because because of his meaningless oratory, Democratic party is about to loose their biggest opportunity in recent history. I for one will not forgive him. And I do not think I am alone.

Newaz, Houston, TX

In the middle of a lecture given by a Catholic priest on how all non-Catholics were necessarily denied salvation Robert Kennedy (a devout Catholic), who had been growing increasingly angry with the belligerent man, stood up and challenged his views, then stormed out of the lecture theatre.

If you geniunely disagree with the views of someone who purports to speak in your name - whether Catholic, African-American, or whatever - then you stand up and call them on it. If it's required, you publicly renounce them.

Obama is no Robert Kennedy. Not by a long way.

James, Sunderland, United Kingdom

I hope we all are aware how the USA was established. It has a bloody legacy of ultimate betrayal of the American Indian tribes, Slavery and Racism which we young people are carrying with us. There are people from all parts of the world in the United States who have taken from persecution of all sorts from other countries. This country is bathed in blood and hope.

We, Americans enjoy a right which many people from other countries do not: Freedom of Speech. What Rev. Jeremiah Wright expressed (right or wrong--totally debatable) is his right. The same way Geraldine Ferraro, Bill Cunningham, Dick Cheney, Pat Robertson, Bill Maher, Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama have a right to speak their mind.

Our experiences and prejudices--right or wrong-- dictate how we think, understand and express our feelings. Some have good experiences and some have bad ones.

Recent world of political correctness is causing more harm than good-- because we are repressing our thoughts and eventually lash out negatively because we as Americans have become afraid of debate.

Let us debate and talk of why Geraldine Ferraro feels that Barack as a black man has an advantage--why does she think that. Why does Rev Jeremiah think that the USA is actually the US of KKK. Why? Let us debate and not over interpret their views as the views of Senator Clinton or Obama's.

We all have family members and friends who MOUTH OFF. We so not always agree with them but there are qualities in them that we love and we all as a people come in all different types--- we ACCEPT even though we disagree. We do not denounce them or leave them.

If we denounced all the people who disagreed with us, we will be standing ALONE.

Let's move to positive and passionate debate. Let us talk.

Misty, Los Angeles,

Why would we want Obama, if we can have Hillary and also get
Bill? Experiened? I should think so. I'm Jewish so why in the hell would I vote for Obama when he sits in a holy place, a place of worship and has a man of G-d say such horrible things about Americana, and Jews alike. What was Obama thinking? Did he not get up as an American and say "no more". Did he not leave his place of worship and denouce those hateful words of his spiritual leader. AND, she is finally glad to be an American. A Harvard graduate - the two of them making so much money with such powerful careers and she is finally glad she is an American. How dare them!!!!!!

I'm first generation here and at time I too had to put up with bigotry.... But, I was always glad that I was an American. Always

Gloria, Columbia, Maryland

A prejudice is a prejudice. If your reverend spoke like Obama's did, you would have to be prejudice to listen. Simple facts. Think about the KKK and David Dukes.... what do their preachers say? would you want them in the high office? NO

Just say NOBAMA! Not this time, not ever... racism is racism whether against black, brown, white or purple. own up.

John Grand, miami beach, FL

I am a 70 year old American. I have seen it all, or nearly it all. And what is coming to pass regarding Obama, is not just the "Cafe-au-Lait" feel good thing that so many Americans (especially the impressionable young ) go for, (and he is new, and don't we all love new) but he is just now undergoing the media vetting that he should have undergone in the first place! Except of course that he became the "Media Darling du Jour", and was viewed as the new "Saviour". by them. Sen. McCain is a real American Hero, who puts his money where his mouth is, and is not afraid to take on all comers, including lobbiests, and both in the past and present, has put himself in harms way, and I don''t mean just listening to "Black Liberation Hot Talk Drivel", from a raciest Black Pastor. Lets not take the chance of making a third mistake, and perhaps electing a "Closet Black Liberation" canidate as President.

We need to know more about Sen. Obama, not less, and now Americans know it.

jim, framingham, USA

Obama distances himself from the Reverend Wright's "inflammatory statements" after twenty years of a close relationship. No, I don't think disowning the Reverend would be the answer, I think it is to late. People make choices.
The Reverend's comments were not only racist, they were anti-American, nor was it spoken in a way to be constructive.

G.. D.. America, U.S. of KKK, and so on.
HIV caused by whites, 9/11 too.
Those from other countries might want to review what was really said, and ask themselves if they would want a person at the head of their country that associated with this kind of hate.

WmB, winona, US/IL

Maybe Obama doesn't wear a US flag pin on his lapel because they are all made in China, like everything else that is for sale in the USA after George Bush became President in 2000. Really....find one that is made in the USA...look on the Net and find one!!! People who are Hillary fans and Limbaugh fans can't wait to pile on top of this guy. You all ought to be ashamed. Rather than looking at the issues, we will be stuck with another Bush clone and the world will be the worse for it. The USA is finished as a nation and people like you have ruined it!

Jim, Troy, USA/Il

As much as I agree that Americans should address race as Mr. Obama suggested, I think it is highly unlikely that that will happen. I have lived in blue collar Southern white communities or conservative Democratic communities for the last 20 years and let me say that no one is sitting down talking about this issue. When I was in graduate school in Chapel Hill in a cultural psychology seminar I attempted to get a discussion going about the difference between true integration and what we have now which is voluntary segregation. No one would talk about it. Even miore incendiary were the many many studies showing the reasons behind the enormous numbers of single parent households and loads of them point out that it is not just the men who "love em and leave em" but the women who have a child not for welfare money but for unconditional love. We have to be honest and understand the issues,...all of them...and the deeply ingrained hostile beliefs about the make up of race.

Alexandra Castle, Raleigh, North Carolina

for once americans must show that they have a spine and judge a man base on what he says or do and not on some one else's views ,comments and even dids. it seems to me the only reasonable path is for every one to take a deeeeeep breath ,then vote for obama for he is simple the best of three options.

bijoux, novi,mi, u s a

Wright did nothurt Obama. Obama hurt Obama. This information has always been there. The only reason that it was surpressed for so long was that the media refused to intestigate or print it. And the DNC was complicit as well. Further, there is more to come on the Wright, Rezko and Auchi stories. Thje vetting has just begun. It should have occurred a year ago.

Brit, san francisco, ca

It's interesting to see how a lot of you posting from countries other than the US seem to be caught up in the Obamamania that seems to be affecting the left side of our Dem Party over here.
It might surprise many of you, but most of the people in the US are
not the extreme Bush haters you seem to be. If he could run again
he would probably beat either one of these pathetic Democratic candidates.

BruceD, San Diego, Ca

> If my father and/or uncle is morally (and politically) wrong
>must I be painted with the same tar brush?

No, you don't chose your family. You may chose how close to be with them and how often you interact socially with them.

Nor can we always help who crosses our paths in lives and we extend a hand to help out in a tough spot.

But you do chose your pastor. This wasn't an occasional meeting to appease some constituency. Nor was this a Catholic with a immoral parish priest, and most Catholics were rightfully incensed with their Church's lack of leadership on the issue -- and the Church has reformed.

This was someone Obama had a long term pastoral relationship with over many years -- someone who is speaking out against the Nation itself. He couldn't have put enough American flags behind himself when he gave that speech to wave this issue away.

Matt, Brooklyn, CT,

The speech he gave to explain his relationship with his Pastor was OK. It was a shame he read it off the tele- prompter as it took away any passion that was required. BUT the fact remains the Reverand made these sermons AND believed in them- He said such ridiculous things that quite frankly he should apologise himself.

To try and justify these statements is also political suicide. I really think the American public will not support Obama now. He had his chance and he blew it. After the brilliant campaign he ran he failed right at the wrong time, i suspect he will never be trusted for the rest of his career; Which of course will make his wife even more certain that it is a race thing, in fact if this episode hadn't happenend his wife would have made just one too many comments about racism . Just when it looked like nothing could go wrong.

Billy, Bangkok, THailand

The black church is the political base in the black community-a 26 yr. old Obama who wanted a career in local politics joined the well respected Trinity Church. If Obama had quit Trinity church then there would be no Obama today standing for president because he would not have been elected to the statehouse or the senate.It is ridiculous to assert Obama should have stood up and denounced his pastor and ended his career. It was political expediency and he won't say it-thats it-this issue goes away when people understand this motivation. Nothing more-nothing less.

J Jones, Baltimore, USA

Obama is no match for MaCain. Obama has not dealt with the issue of racism in an efficient and objective way and has allowed it to become a much bigger issue than what it is supposed to be. This reflects poorly on his ability to navigate the nation and, the World in general, through challenging conditions. Problem of racial hormony in the U.S., though , regretable, ranks much lower to other issues. But he could not take or did not take a clear stand
and did not rise above the pettyness.

Kamal Dureja, Toronto, Canada

It is ironic that the very thing that Barack Obama wanted to avoid, that is that this Democratic nomination campaign will become race driven, has come true and will, in the end, signal Mr. Obama's donwfall. The other irony is that if Hillary wins it will not because of her brilliant campaign, it will be because of the Reverend Jeramiah Wirght's unforgiveable rants.

Douglas Cornish, Ottawa, Canada

Move ahead, stop the stupid focus on Wright and his 30 second sound bite. The only people who continue to talk about it are those who wouldn't have voted for Obama anyway.

We have a choice in this election, we can move forward, not backward and chose a candidate who has brought young people and independents and republicans into the process.

Jerry, Ashley, neither of you were Obama supporters and your assessment of the issue is not only untrue (a person doesn't have to wear a flag pin to be patriotic.....how ridiculous) and my feeling is the Wright thing is already out there, so it loses it's impact the more it is used....unless you continue to focus on it.

Peggy, Adrian, Michigan

Let's remember that this is the democratic primary we're talking about-- democrats tearing each other apart, and with a fair dose of poetic justice since it's about time that ide