Can Obama be beaten? Twofer with Sarah Baxter

Can Obama be beaten? I asked that question on Friday, Now in my latest Twofer, Sarah Baxter tries valiantly to answer it.

Comments

[alan maddox]

Now that the Clinton clan have opened up the possibility that he may be a closet Muslim,his popularity will wane.

[Marc]

Yes, of course he can be stopped. The error is in the question. The question should be, "Can Hilary Clinton stop Barrack Obama? Possibly not! New question! "Will this let the Republicans win? And the answer is: (And for all of the wrong reasons): "probably". I am British and, with incredible shame I admit that the British are, generally speaking, sexist and racist. The Americans are, generally speaking, the same. Would they rather have a female president or a black one? They'd rather have neither. Americans,please, please, please prove me wrong!

[Norma Dove-Edwin]

By Obama wearing a Kenyan national dress in honour of his father's people what does it prove? Certainly not that he is a Muslim but that he is proud of his roots. Obama has never denied that his father was Kenyan and we have seen photographs of his grandmother living in Kenya.

[Terry Miller]

Many of us here in the USA are aggressively debunking urban legends like "closet Muslim." In my opinion, so far there's no traction, but, if Obama wins the nomination, the legends will reappear.

[aTexan]

I WAS excited about Obama when the primaries started. But the more I find out about him, the more serious reservations I have about his affiliations w Radicals. This makes me question WHO THIS man REALLY is... and I have already decided, since he doesn't seem to really care about Universal Healthcare, then I have no qualms about giving my otherwise Democratic vote to an honored War Hero whom I trust with the safety of our nation.

God Bless America

[helen]

Alan, quit being a bone head all this talk about Obama being a muslim, so what who cares.it's funny how you people think that you are the rulers, but you guys are a bunch of ignorant racial bigots who has nothing better to do in live but complain-complain.

[PETER]

I KEEP ON SAYING THAT OBAMA CAN NOT BE TRUSTED, NOW HIS DIRTY LAUNDRY START TO COME OUT. WAIT TILL THE REPUBLICAN GETS INTO OBAMA ISSUES. DEMOCRAT SUPER DELEGATES WAKE UP. AT LEAST WE ALL KNOW WHO IS HILLARY CLINTON. SUPER DELEGATES DO NOT ABANDON THE RIGHT PERSON WHO CAN HELP FIX THIS MESS.

[Kelly C]

I think the world will will laugh if Obama is elected as president, to how we would allow the someone with his name sounding like 2 of our main issues, Iraq and Osama.

I personally do not feel ok with it, I guess you can call me superstitious but I just have a bad feeling about it all, and it has nothing to do with his race, I do not care if he was white, woman, or any other...the name just gives me bad vibes about it all. Now the Musilm thing...that is enough for me to run.

[richard]

Suspicion of Obama as a Muslim can also be observed how he was dealing with friends of Auchi and Rysko. Shame on him buying a mansion he can not afford through the money of Auchi and Rysko help and the media people well.. some of them have no guts to investigate this facts. Obama is the lowest form of politician, slime corrupt and opportunistic, using his office to get visa for Auchi.

[JL]

Alan Maddox,

"May be a closet Muslim"?

What nonsense. Senator Obama has been a Christian for 20 years, a United Church of Christ member. In 2006, according to his tax return, he and Michelle gave $22,500 to their church.

[sheila whitehead]

Is the only way that Clinton can get those needed votes is to slander a good man? This tactic is so bad. I am beginning to really hat the Clintons. Vote Obama and secure our Country!

[mary CA USA]

To Alan Maddox: We, the people of the United States know all about who Senator Obama is. We read his two books; we checked his voting records online; we study him carefully.

The only people who are still linking him to Muslim are the same (insert rude word) who think we are involved in a "Holy War" in Iraq.

The Clinton's have been playing to white bigotry since, um, day one of her campaign. Luckily, a vast majority of us are decent people who can only shake our heads in disbelief at how childish, not only our elected government, but the press has become.

[celechuks]

Mr & Mrs Clinton have succeeded in spliting the democrats. I wonder how the democrats will win the General election at the end.All these attacks on Obama and also on Mrs Clinton will now be a helping tools for the republican to win this election. The Clintons are guilty of this offence because, they started it first.

[PRINCE ANYAKORA]

Americans have not forgotten Clinton's white house scandals, white water land scandal, and several investigations with Special counsel Ken Star, impeachment, and perjury that cost Bill his law license, the NAFTA unilateral trade agreement, the given access to chinese to American technological secretes, and much more.
Given these unanswered truck load of dirt about Clintons which are proven to be true, I doubt rumors and undetermined nonsense of "SILLY SEASON" plus 11 strings of wins can be stopped. Only the heavens can stop Sen. OBAMA at this point after his campaign lift off.

[PRINCE ANYAKORA]

Approved.

[Ramone Carty]

I can imagine all you reporters from the Times sweating at the thought of Obama becoming the next President...your coverage of the Democratic race is totally anti Obama...why?

[Vern]

The Clintons would NOT put out the information and photo that was shown by the AP; they should fact check before initially accusing the campaign in the first place, THEN state it with evidence. Now, the US believes that the Clinton campaign would be THAT low....

Here's some information regarding the one-sided US journalism (review and print now B4 it's removed!):

http://www.thecityedition.com/Pages/Archive/Winter08/2008Election.html

Be informed, THEN be vocal!

[kenneth mottram]

If this Hoopla results in HC becoming the candidate I project that I and millions more will desert the Dems and vote for McCain.HC has a huge amount of baggage for the Republicans to exploit as well as the more personal dislike of the Clintons. If Obahma is dumped this could also result in Mayor Bloomberg entering the race with I think a good chance of taking over where Obama lets off, a dreamteam could be Bloomberg and Obama joining forces on an Independent ticket to clean up the corrupt mess that is Politics here in the US

[elisabeth]

a thinking person who lives in the present and has what is called common sense, is appalled by the question....but as it goes in any democracy: the intelligent make the laws and the idiots decide. That has not changed in a 1000 years....and Americans are famous for their arrogance and stupidity...

[Skip]

I think Sarah has bought into too much Obama hype. Hillary CAN still keep the race open right up to the convention by denying Obama enough delegates to put him at the necessary total.

[Tricky Dicky]

America's influence on the rest of the world is considerable. Obama is truly the Manchurian candidate. The hysteria shown by his "followers' on these blogs is very scary, a cross between a Moonie and a Manchester United supporter. His popularity will wane. The young rarely follow a fad for long. The Republicans can't wait for him to be nominated before revealing what Obama has so far been clever in obscuring. His wife is only proud to be an American when her husband is getting his own way. He has been carefully managed but the wheels will fall off leaving another Republican Presidency a mere formality. Wake up you Democrats!

[Charlie Stauffer]

Now that the Clinton clan have opened up the possibility that he may be a closet Muslim,his popularity will wane.

Posted by: alan maddox

Allen !!! Good greif !!! Obama a Closet Muslim ? The only people that would care about his religious affiliations aren't even registered to vote !

We Americans by and large aren't the brightest bulbs in the lamp, but we aren't burned out either.

[Sabastian]

Winning or being beaten is obvious in any competition and if Americans proves to be civilised in a manner that race is no factor to them then Obama will win.

[Dona X. Brown]

If he was white would we be suggesting he is closet Muslim?
Thats why politics is dirty.

[Richard]

Well, once Peter has learnt the art of grammar, I will acknowledge his opinion. Personally, I think that it would do America a world of good to embrace a President who is respectful and proud of his roots - then it might encourage them do start doing so themselves.
I find it disgusting that potentially being a Muslim could be seen to be slanderous over there, to say nothing of the debasing and foul slander campaigns engineered, I'm sure, by Hillary Clinton. What century are we living in? How can Americans talk in one press conference of liberating Muslims and doing good on their behalf, and in another of it being a threat to a presidential campaign. I like America, but I do have serious reservations about how powerful it should be allowed to get when this kind of rot is at its heart.

[gayle]

Thank You Iowa for choosing the
right three in the proper order.
Thank you Geogia,South Carolina
and other southern states, and
the midwest for restoring our
faith in you. You have recognized
the best candidate for the job,
Barack Obama. The press is so out
of touch with America. We are not
thinking of gender OR Race, we
are choosing the best, possible
choice to get the job done.
So Maddox, you are wrong. We are
NOt like the British.

[Celi]

it so sad to come to this, Do you realy think Obama is a musilm closet? Do you think he is so stupid to run for predident being a muslim?
Dont be ingnorant, Only ingnorante peoples will believe this.
No body is prefect, all candidates may have make misteaks, we should focus on the future and serious issues Obama is not musilm we all know that.
Hillary are you that desperate to go back in the white house ? some time you have to let go , it hard but you had you chance!

Posted by: helen | 26 Feb 2008 01:04:10

I KEEP ON SAYING THAT OBAMA CAN NOT BE TRUSTED, NOW HIS DIRTY LAUNDRY START TO COME OUT. WAIT TILL THE REPUBLICAN GETS INTO OBAMA ISSUES. DEMOCRAT SUPER DELEGATES WAKE UP. AT LEAST WE ALL KNOW WHO IS HILLARY CLINTON. SUPER DELEGATES DO NOT ABANDON THE RIGHT PERSON WHO CAN HELP FIX THIS MESS.

Posted by: PETER | 26 Feb 2008 01:14:21

I think the world will will laugh if Obama is elected as president, to how we would allow the someone with his name sounding like 2 of our main issues, Iraq and Osama.

I personally do not feel ok with it, I guess you can call me superstitious but I just have a bad feeling about it all, and it has nothing to do with his race, I do not care if he was white, woman, or any other...the name just gives me bad vibes about it all. Now the Musilm thing...that is enough for me to run.

Just proves racism and ignorance is still aliv...

[Stv]

Is this the British press we should be proud of? Not at all. In this 21st century it is a shame that the British press are still stuck in their racist and ignorant skin. Why trying to pull Obama down? Beccause he is Black? I am sure you are unaware that the Clintons have more dealings and long time relationship with Rezko than Obama. Infact why are the Clintons not declaring their tax return while Obama voluntaritly declares his? I bet you racist reporters won't like what you will see and hear when the Republicans start to expose clinton's dirty deals and businesses. Imagine Hillary Clinton now holds the record of collecting the largest amount of money from lobbysts in the Democratic funraising history. What a record ! that is not trying to change things, that is business as usual.

[Boyimbo]

Are the British already scared of the confidence an Obama nomination might instill in British blacks?(I think you're still a long way from that freedom) or better still wary of what to do under an Obama presidency and international Leadership, as America has always provided leadership to Britain in international affairs?
Wake up to reality an Obama leadership in politics will not be different from a Tiger Woods leadership in Golf or a Mohammed Ali leadership in Boxing or to bring it home, a Thierry Henry Leadership in soccer

[Kelly Pierce]

Immigrants in Europe, grow up angry and despondent.
Immigrants in America, grow up to be Presidents and Billionaires. Europeans cannot comprehend that the world is changing and they being left behind, irrelevant.
Viva America and well done Barack Obama.

[Harry]

The only good thing America has to offer the world it has so brutally battered, in a decade is probably Barack Obaman.

The choice is not between Obaman and or Cliton and Mccain, the choice is between healing america and the world or going the Bush's way and inadvertently drawing the american and by extension western civilization to its anticlimax. He could just be God -sent to stop the drift. Military might and power cannot sustain this civilization, we need a US leader that is humble, intelligent and ready to listen and talk.

[tawana]

I think people just need to grow up the world has become a a global village u need to aware some of these cheap shots,you are flying around will only leasve the world questioning the level of your mental appreciation as professionals especially,you in the media.
We understand some people are still leaving in the past and are still engrossed in racial guilt,and can not grow up ,its time to wake up smell the coffee and learn to call a spade a spade ,and let the will of the people speak,i dont think dresses,etc are issues that we can talk about at kindergarten.

[Daniel]

Surprise, Surprise has the tactics really changed? NO Whether Obama wins or not some of the stereotypes the western world like and choose to embrace would have been dispelled in some ways, but some of the fears of the rest of the world as to which group of people would try to hold on to world domination by any means necessary. And I dont mean war of the races!

[Good ole Texan]

I don't think Obama is for real. The guy talks and talks....and so far he has no message to convey. Can he be trusted? I just can't believe the American people don't see how he really is. America needs a good president not a speaker.
He is also come out of the closet as a muslim wearing turban and Kenyan attire. On the top of this the American's media seems to be dully unfair with Hilary in regards of the way they selectively chose to not dig into Obama's past and call him on some of his "peccadilloes."

[sola]

Has Hillary or her campaign orgernisers seen the film DESPERADO.
I wonder why she is so desperate to get back to the whitehouse after spending 8yrs. Obama is too good let him do it.The whole world love him, hes too charismatic and that is what america needed to redeem their image

[james]

Who cares if he is muslim or not...he's not running to be the Pope or the head of any other religion...he is running to become president...Americans are the biggest bigots in the world, and the funny thing is you all think the rest of the world sees America as a country to envy...wake up America!!!

[Any Annulliani]

NOBODY KNOWS WHAT BUSH QUALITIES ARE, BEFORE WE VOTED HIM, WHAT'S UP
HIS SLEEVE.
USA , THE WORLDS ONLY SUPERPOWER BADGE ON HIS CHEST, THEN
BINGO....LET'S GET THE GUY WHO TRIED TO KILL MY FATHER... JUST LOOK
AT THE MESS WE'RE IN.
MY FELLOW AMERICANS, GIVE OBAMA A CHANCE, JUST PICTURE OBAMA MEETING
AND TALKING TO OTHER WORLD LEADERS... ... HE WILL OUTTALKED AND
LEVEL THEM FLAT...HE WILL LEAVE THEM GASPING FOR MORE.. MISS THIS,
ITS GONNA BE PLAIN CAKE WITHOUT THE TOPPINGS... 56914The US must maintain its world leadership role, its tech edge, economic power, humanism and high morale ground. Our presidents are a joke worldwide...One previous white Pres (Bill Cli...) enjoys FELLATIO in the White House, our present white Pres(Bush) 'is running amok around the world, like a madman with a razor blade' quote V Putin.
The days of white supremachists hinting and hanging niggers are gone, the bloody hands of neo-cons attacking Muslims worldwide must stop.
We must gain respect thru HIGH MORAL GROUNDS NOT THRU THE BARREL OF THE GUN.
WE MUST BE RESPECTED NOT FEARED.
I MISS THE DAYS WHEN US EMBASSIES ARE LIKE THE GATE TO PARADISE,
NOT NOW WHEN OUR EMBASSIES ARE BARBED WIRE FOTRESS, WAITING FOR
THE NEXT ATTACK TO HAPPEN.
LETS MAKE FRIENDS NOT ENEMIES....
MR OBAMA SIR...THE ORACLES HAVE SPOKEN...LEAD US THE WAY.

[Any Annulliani]

The US have lost its world leadership role and respect, no tks to
Bush.
Its high time the US maintain its world leadership, its moral
leadership, its economic status not thru the might of its guns and
bombs but charisma of its leaders... give this guy, OBAMA a chance.
Whatever happens its a delight to see Hillary as vice pres... shes
like wine and Cheney just soda pop... NOBODY KNOWS WHAT BUSH QUALITIES ARE, BEFORE WE VOTED HIM, WHAT'S UP
HIS SLEEVE.
USA , THE WORLDS ONLY SUPERPOWER BADGE ON HIS CHEST, THEN
BINGO....LET'S GET THE GUY WHO TRIED TO KILL MY FATHER... JUST LOOK
AT THE MESS WE'RE IN.
MY FELLOW AMERICANS, GIVE OBAMA A CHANCE, JUST PICTURE OBAMA MEETING
AND TALKING TO OTHER WORLD LEADERS... ... HE WILL OUTTALKED AND
LEVEL THEM FLAT...HE WILL LEAVE THEM GASPING FOR MORE.. MISS THIS,
ITS GONNA BE PLAIN CAKE WITHOUT THE TOPPINGS...
I just cant believe some of the postings here, moral, intelligence,
ehtics... we have been feed THE WORST VOCUBALARY FODDER, SPEECHES
FROM THE WORST PRESIDENT THE US HAVE PRODUCED, UNINTELLIGABLE
MUTTERINGS, FROM A PUGNACIOUS TEXAN FOR THE LAST SEVEN YEARS... NOW
COMES THE BEST SPEAKERS, ELOQUENCE, INTELLIGENT AND YOUNG, THE
ELECTION HAVE RPODUCED, WE STILL HAVE OUR DOUBTS ??? UNDER BUSH
NEO-CONS OUR MENTAL STATE OF MIND IS LIKE IN A GARBAGE TRUCK, MESSY
AND FOUL.
UNDER OBAMA, IT WILL BE LIKE IN A CHAUFFERED DRIVEN
BENTLEY...BELIEVE ME

[Steve]

The longer this backbiting and mudslinging continues between Hilary and Obama, the deeper the wedge will split Democrats, the more sure McCain is of victory in November. Keep on fighting Clinton and Obama!

[W]

Unreal, how selective American's can be when a minority show's his or her pride. Nothing is said when every March 17th,the entire country goes green wants to proclaim they are at least 1/8 Irish....double standard? Enough said....

[Jacob]

As I've looked into Obama's record, it really has no substance. Yes, a few of his bills became laws, but most of the bills he wrote (listed in the Library of Congress) were nothing more than a waste of tax payers money and time (i.e. a bill urging auto makers to create more fuel effienct cars, a bill urging Americans to live a healthy life, etc.) Give me a break, real "change" only comes about through our Constitution; & When you are born Muslim and convert based on politics, it hardly makes you a trusting person.

[Jasper One]

I might be a little superstitious, but Obama ryhmes with Osama and his middle name is Heussein. HUH? His tactics with the way he speaks is really just playing on people emotions. Anybody can make a change right now because of the situation our country has been in. I know if he wins the primaries, I am a TRUE democratic voter I will probably vote for the Republican candidate.

[Edwin Wiggins]

What has the world come to? We sit here and look at how the news can twist an innocent situation like Obama wearing his Kenya cloths and think that he is going to have us killed. How stupid can we as americans can be? Are we afraid because Obama is telling the truth the way it is? Are we afraid because he is half black? Are we afraid because he made some mistakes like all of us have? He is trying to do the best he can to help us out and so is Clinton. However, McCain is a whole different story. All he cares about is being another President Bush. Tell me how is it possible that you pass a bill then durning election you say that you're against it? It seem like to me that he is going to say what we want to hear until he gets into office. The world needs a good change so lets stop listening to the negative news from the media and look for the positive news instead.

[Olusegun Dada]

I now beleive that most American like the rest of us in Africa can be naive and just be hyped as they obviously have by the vastly inexperienced Obama.Many do not understand the dynamics of power,a strong America i beleive still remain a neccesity for the world today and i dare say Barack Obama can never give the leadership such a country deserve in these trying period in world history.I only pray that Someone up there will stop the American people from making the worst mistake in world history.

[BE]

What happened to separation of church and state? Even if he was a Muslim, and I don't believe that he is, it shouldn't even matter!

[Take a real look]

All of us as Americans have a duty and an obligation to look closer at Barrack Obama. At this point, what matters is all America being involved with the procees. After all, did we know that the Bush family recieves billions of dollars from Arab enemy nations before he was elected? And what about just a few weeks ago President Bush, our protector, providing 30 billon dollors, to an Arab Muslim nation, in military equipment, and then participating in the muslim sword dance with those nations leaders?
We should look much closer at how Obama's mother worked for American in U.S. embassies in hostile countries around the world standing in harms way with her son by her side. Where is the real patriot?
Where is the real on-the-job training ? When people really look into Obama's background they will find through comparisons with other Democrates, or Republicans, that Mr. Obama is among the few who has not taking pay offs from lobbyist or special interest, and has always been involved with American national and international affairs. What was Ms. Clinton involved with as a child, if she can talk about years of experience?

[ann]

The irony is that those who seriously want to be President probably should be eliminated as candidates. What I find interesting is the will and drive of those who desire the Presidency has a "possession" like quality to it. If you observe Clinton, Obama and McCain - they are possessed by this ambition. It wasn't as apparent in Obama at first - but the very process of running for President has changed him. Whatever ideals he started out with - are beginning to erode and the greed of power I now see in his eyes are burning just as brightly as Hillary's. Remember folks, power corrupts and absolute power corrupts absolutely. The only way for us to reclaim our decmocracy is to vote for representatives who will "listen" to the will of the people. King Dubya George has done more to consolidate the power of the President than any other in the history of our nation. Bush, Rove, Cheney, et al have time and again claimed Executive privilege thereby breaking any law they feel does not apply to the Executive Branch.
The new President probably won't reverse this trend and unless and until Congress and the President are fearfull of the people instead of the other way around - we will never experience the "change" we truly need to restore our democracy.
We haven't been living in one for some time. We're living under corporate "fascism". The PACS and influence peddlers in D.C. are entrenched. They need to be booted out.
Perhaps if PTSD trigger happy, more WAR John McCain is elected - it will bring on the revolution more quickly - and that (in the words of Martha Stewart) is a good thing.

[Edward]

My wife was approached by a man in the Walmart parking lot, who saw the "Obama '08" bumper sticker on her van. He wanted her to know that Obama's middle name was Hussein, and that the Muslims were trying to take over. Back in 2000, George Bush's operatives got a portion of the vulnerable, rumor-believing electorate to think that John McCain had fathered an illegitimate black child. My solution to this problem? Stop buying weapons and paying soldiers and start buying textbooks and paying teachers. Ignorance is our common enemy.

[loisb]

I am confident that Obama will become the first African American President of The United States of America. Obama is a proven Leader and he will do a marvelous job in getting this country going in the righ direction. ,

[Dave W]

Vote McCain...Democrats leave too much doubt. Rather have a war hero than another Clinton (ugh) and a rookie want-to-be in Obama. When the smoke clears, McCain will win the nomination. Democrats are too much into slander.

[M. Simon]

Arrogance and stupidity made America great. As it once made Britain Great.

It is too bad you Brits no longer aspire to greatness.

There is always the Ozzies.

[Jan van de Maark]

I'M NOT EVEN FROM THE USA... BUT I REALLY HOPE THAT OBAMA BEATS HILLARY CLINTON, BECAUSE HE SEEMS MORE POWERFUL A LEADER THAN SHE IS OR EVER WILL BE!!!

GOOOOOOO OBAMA.!!! AMERICA THE TIME IS NOW!! IT'S NOW OR NEVER!!

GREETINGS FROM THE NETHERLANDS!!

[Kathie]

I am very concerned that many people seem to want the 'First Female President' or the 'First Black President'. When did we stop wanting the best person to run country??
I am so sick of all the 'America' bashing, everyone wants to talk smack about us until some crap breaks loose, then everyone points the finger at the U.S. - wanting to know what we are going to do. You can't have it both ways.

[POLITICALLY PUZZLED]

The Clintons' greed for power and riches force other prominent Democrats ie. Kennedy/Kerry/Dodd to stop them in their cold tracks!!

[Linda]

America is definitely ready for change. Our democracy enables us to choose a candidate with brilliant leadership skills that will bring this country together to work toward a brighter future.

We are a nation of diverse and intelligent people. This is the first in many years that many of us see an opportunity for change and hope.

We praise the efforts of the Obama campaign staff and all of the supporters.

Barack Obama will be an inspiration for all throughout the world as he has a vision to unite, not divide.

Linda in Indiana

[LadyVoter]

I think OBAMA is an extremely smart politician who so far has manipulated the media into giving him a free pass, like he got a mansion to live in and it goes out of the headlines fast.

[Marlena]

OBAMA is for Change and lifting up the down and out...and making the RICH accountable and not to freeload off the poor. Every negative opinion on any Blog/web about OBAMA are losers themselves. Why don't you stand up make a difference and stop complaining.

[Rob]

The funny thing is, it really doesn't matter who is elected President. Fault will be found, allegations will be leveled, and the evils of the world will be placed at the feet of America. Do you believe this will change with the changing of the guard? Of course not. And to whom will the masses turn when some zealot ignites a nuke? Who will be called upon to use military might in the face of extremism, and then be blamed for both the genesis of the extremism and the improper use of force? Regardless of who sits in the Oval Office, America will be tasked with the role of protector and villain. Despite that, America will protect those who ask for it, even amidst the cries of racism, imperialism, fascism and genocide.

Despite nearly universal criticism, when the world calls, it is prediminantly American lives that are spent in the role of protector.

Ironic how few it is that respond when America needs assistance, no? And also ironic that despite the critics, America answers the call. Regardless of who is in charge.

[Raymond]

GOD BLESS YOU JAME, NOW THATS A GUY THAT KNOWS WHAT HE'S TALKING ABOUT.LISTEN UP WORLD, ITS NO LONGER ABOUT BLACKS AND WHITES OR ABOUT MUSLIMS AND CHRISTIANS. LIKE IT OR NOT AMERICA IS THE STRONGEST NATION IN THE WORLD AND IF THE WORLD IS TO PROGRESS INTO AN ERA OF PEACEFULNESS AND PROSPERITY IT HAS TO START IN AMERICA.throw all the racist bullshit out of the window, give Obama a chance to heal America and in the process heal the world

Everyone's comments are proving how low American intelligence is compared to the rest of the world. Even IF he was Muslim, what does that have to do with anything? We're not at war against Muslims, and they are plenty in the US. If Americans are so stupid not to know the difference, then I say an education bill should be the first thing to address.

[henry monono]

What is in a name? Osama is the devil who almost destroyed America and made the rest of the world go negative about Muslims. Obama is the angel sent by the Almighty to heal America and bring all the good people of the world together. Obama exudes charm, class,dignity and makes people feel good. His time has come. His message is a message of hope and healing. His body language his engaging smile, his all embracing togetherness are all marks of a great leader. A new Kennedy has been born. Let us pray the forces of evil do not put out this candle that is about to light the darkness.

[Frank Scudder]

As I have written before - who would be in Obama's cabinet? Under the parliamentary system we have a good idea of what an opposition leader thinks - he pumps out policies and attitudes in parliament for three or four years before an election. American campaigns seem to be little more than beauty contests with each candidate saying, with different emphases, God bless America and all who sail in her - not to mention motherhood and apple pie.

Is Brzezinski to be Sec of State? Who is to be at Treasury? Who the Chief of Staff?

Give us realistic background. And don't forget that Obama would be Commander-in-chief. Does that make you feel happier?

[Malachi W.]

If America were racist, Barack H. Obama would not have won ten primaries & caucuses in a row. That said, the fact that Obama has won ten contests in a row establishes that Americans can be swayed by lovely but utterly vague phrases from a gifted speaker, notwithstanding that his actual beliefs are on the far left edge of the spectrum. Evidently the phenomenal job Hillary Clinton has done as Senator is to be ignored in favor of this glib tongue from Chicago. Welcome to America the absurd.

[busket 65]

1. Many of you are attacking the US as bigoted. Do you realize the contradiction between your statements and the fact that we have a black man and a woman running for President and getting millions of votes? How many other nations would be able to do that?

2. Many Americans don't like Obama simply because he is an extreme leftist with ties to radical socialist and communist activists. Not rumor but fact. He has been ranked by liberal groups as the most liberal member of Congress.

3. I would like to see Europe give us leaders who would think beyond their border. You want a global community? Haw about participating? Stop depending on the US. Stop living under our protection. Start carrying your own weight in the world. Start defending yourselves. Start being an ally rather than a burden. How about some SIGNIFICANT NATO assistance in Afghanistan instead of mere token forces stationed in relatively safe areas. In other words, stop talking and start doing something. That is one thing Americans do different.

[anon]

This is such a non-issue, and I am so tired of people saying Obama has no substance. Read people. There is information on his record; there are bills he has helped sponsor; there is his voting record; there is the work he has done in Chicago/Illinois. A sound-bite is not information; it's uninformed pandering.

[Chris Gallagher]

It seems obvious that the Press has chosen Obama to be leader. Against Billary I can understand their choice. I do not understand why the Democrats keep picking unelectable loosers. I know activists go for their ideal choice first, and activists rarely reflect mainstream opinion but they need to face reality. Last time the Dems picked somebody who betrayed their country, this time they pick an ultra-left bloke who'se wife doesn't really like her own country and he won't even wear an American Pin (personally I think it's kind of dumb but I'm British, I know that stuff slays em in the swing states).

I admit that Obama looks like a phoney to me, and his vapid "change" speeches remind me of all the arragance & pomposity of the "Sheffield Rally" - look it up on Wikipedia. Nevertheless I still stand by my belief that the GOP will walk this one. McCain is centrist, has a pair on US defence and isn't a freshman Senator.

[medhat mahfouz]

i think the close one is mr obama but in election in nov i think mr macain will win because his wide experience especially in foreign affairs which lack both democratic as this considered the image of america in the world which require acertain charisma not in clinton or obama i think that and good luck to all

[medhat mahfouz]

i think the close one is mr obama but in election in nov i think mr macain will win because his wide experience especially in foreign affairs which lack both democratic as this considered the image of america in the world which require acertain charisma not in clinton or obama i think that and good luck to all

[wasi]

I can imagine all you reporters from the Times sweating at the thought of Obama becoming the next President...your coverage of the Democratic race is totally anti Obama...why?

Posted by: Ramone Carty | 26 Feb 2008 04:15:43

because my friend..the free market nuts who masquerade as fair and balanced reporters here at the times are following editorial policy and are dead scared that either clinton or obama are going to pull the plug on any more sell-out, treacherous, treasonous NAFTA-type free trade agreements..here`s hoping they do...what a bloody disgraceful column...such sickening racism...

[Boyimbo]

To all those who have been talking about inexperience being Obama's weakness,it may interest you to know that governance is never about the experience of one individual,it is more about the judgment and decisiveness of the individual within a team and I think Obama has faired well among democratic senators,so does Senators Edward Kennedy, John Kerry,and a host of others who have endorsed him. He scores high on the points of judgement and decisiveness. Only strong individuals are decisive enough to provide good leadership.Obama has proven that he can unite people and bring his judgment to bear on sensitive issues in governance such as the War in Iraq.
Unfortunately with the experience of George Bush as Governor of Texas,his judgment has been suspect.Also with due respect to Bill Clinton's achievements as president,his indiscretion at the white house did not only cost him, but also cost Al gore and the democratic party.

I dare to think that if Obama was 100% white this whole hullabaloo will not occur,America and the Western world would sing his praise to the highest heavens and he would have beaten Clinton hands down.

[Thalia]

Lots of petty sniping here of all sorts, so let's think of one positive thing: any one of McCain, Obama or Clinton will be a huge improvement on Bush. Probably the worst president ever, he has done huge damage to the international standing of the US. Any of the remaining candidates are going to be a major improvement.

Oh, and Obama-haters - I'm not totally convinced by him, but try to focus on his actual policies and prospects rather than trotting out all this dreary Muslim stuff. When you see people dismissing him because "his name rhymes with Osama" you know it's time to start worrying about the sanity of the electorate.

[Counter_Eddie]

Eddie said "Obama is a proven leader".

Eddie, what are you talking about? Obama is a proven crook with his deal to buy his home and his letters that created a slum landlord as he looked the other way. The news has been finally hitting the papers in the last 24 hours.

Obama is an empty suit. To place him in change of the world's best military is an insult to them. The guy is vapid and his list of accomplishments has nothing on it. It's primarily why Senators don't do well. We have elected two in our history, and JFK really lost in 1960 to Nixon. Where was the voting corruption? In Obama's district. Go figure!

The media here knocked Governor Romney out asn we have poor choices. Survival dictates McCain, as unpalatable as he is.

If you vote for Obama you are a fool. If you believe his message, you're a complete idiot as he has no message.

In 2004 Obama said he was not qualified to be president. I guess his wife grabbed his nuts and said "You're running....we haven't stolen enough and look at what Clinton and Gore are making out of office".

You brits better hope for McCain because we have been trying to save your bacon for 68 years. What happened to you when, as Robert Spencer predicts will begin within 10 years, your Hussein named neighbors start buring your churces like the 300+ they made into rubble in Kosovo? Anyone over there thinking of survival?

CE

[eddie]

it is unfortunate that people are judging obama from his name.this is totally unacceptable.people must be judged by the content of their character and above all their capabilities to perform.Americans wake up from this dogmatic slumber!

[me]

obamas goin to win everyone is complainin well i dont like bush we need sum1 else i like obama wit his fine self lol

[A Patriotic American]

Does anyone out there REMEMBER 911?
I am just curious?

[Leicester UK]

it think it's ridiculous that the clintons are mentioning the whole muslim thing, which clearly shows how desperate they are. Obviously many of us know that obama clearly is not a muslim but a devoted christian. The question is who is smart enough to recognise that or are we all so stupid to see it. And what if obama is a muslim, does that take away the right for him to run for elections. Now tell me,where the helll does america get the right to bomb and trash a country which is not theirs? where the hell do they get to right to end innocent lives? because they supposedly believe that iraq has "weapons of mass destruction"? which untill today has NOT BEEN FOUND! I'm just 17 and i am sane enough to see that this world is so full of corrupt and terror, it disgusts me. If obama wins this election, it will just show that the world is ready to heal and its ready to show some acceptance to all races and religions. If others actually did some research, people would actually see that only a small minority of the muslim community believe in terrorism and the rest face a difficult lifestyle, where they are tormented and isolated for something they did not commit.

[Cram]

Elisabeth "and Americans are famous for their arrogance and stupidity..." the Americans have used their undisputed worlds greatest power to fight evil and oppression for over 200 years. Never has such accumulated power ever been used to return power back to the defeated as have the Americans. Oh, and lets not forget that they have willingly bail out Europe twice in the last 100 years only to leave it a better place. You have a lot of nerve saying the Americans are arrogant and stupid

[was]

"a patriotic american" - yes we do, what exactly is your point, don't understand what 9/11 has to do with the primaries or the presidential elections.

[American Teuton]

Any Annulliani, that truly was a gradual crescendo of nonsense. I am now dumber for having read your comment. You are awarded no points, and may god (or Obama in your belief system) have mercy on your soul.

[AmericanMan]

Boyimbo is completely wrong. If Obama happened to be White, he wouldn't even be in the Senate. Race has everything to do with his rise to being in the Senate and his current status as presidential contender.

If Obama happened to be White, his lack of a resume, lack of sound policy ideas, etc. would have made him an also ran at best.

Obama is an empty suit. Watching this election is like watching an over-hyped version of the Music Man, just with much more tragic and real possibilities. Don't believe the hype. Do we really want a political novice to be leading the most powerful nation in the world? Think America! Use your heads and stop listening to the screaming Obama fans. We're voting for PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES, not the next American Idol! Hello! Vote Hillary Clinton.

[RK]

Americans are, by and large, not racist and sexist as one commenter would suggest. Barack Obama, however, has associated himself with some of the worst people in America, including his own bigoted minister and the anti-semitic racist Louis Farrakhan. Further, the loopy leftwing of the Democratic Party, which is largely driving his candidacy, has adopted anti-semitism and Israel-bashing as a major theme. Obama's foreign policy advisers, including Samantha Power, would wreak havoc on the world by coddling extremists including the fanatics in Tehran. Obama would usher in a very dangerous world for the entire freedom-loving, democratic west.

[Tom]

Being a young American voter myself, perhaps the most concerning thing for me is way the Bush Administration has massacred our reputation within less than ten years. It is difficult growing up in an environment where the US President, supposed leader of the free world, uses the tragedy of 9/11 to take audacious liberties in policy, regardless of public opinion or even majority votes. These choices make by the current administration make America look like a circus freak show to the rest of the world.

And I, quite frankly, am sick of it. And that is why I am excited about this election. The general feeling about this election in the US, at least in the 20-something demographic, is overwhelmingly optimistic. However, this probably has more to do with the fact that Bush can't run again, rather than any specific 2008 candidate.

I'm not so naive as to believe that there is or ever will be a flawless candidate. However, I do know that experience doesn't necessarily equal good decision making. Our current administration proves that. Good decision making relies more on intelligence, substantial and accurate information, good advice, and a shrewd ability to think critically. In this context I feel that all the running candidates are infinitely better than our current president. But that's not exactly difficult.

Regardless of who wins the election, I hope that near the top of the list is repairing and uniting America, so that we don't seem like fools to the rest of the world.

I don't know about you guys, but I would like to know what American dignity feels like again, so forgive us for being so obsessed with this election.

[paul canning]

What's with the horse neighing in the background? (ROFL)

[VJB]

Why can't a country the size of America come up with a quality candidate.

IMO - it's because the type of people who want to be politicians are bad, through to the core. The best people to run the country are driving cabs, teaching, cutting hair and minding their own business instead of lining their pockets with the taxes of the workers.

I'd vote for McCain the only one with experience and a track record.

[J Williams]

For all of those who feel the need to vote for Obama because of the 'baggage' attached to the name Clinton. Investigate Auchi and Rysko!

[Deloris C.]

Well.....well another" NEVER NEVER LAND" created by Barack Hussein Obama. People are so hungry for change they are following a "Pied Piper" leading them down a path of false hopes and dreams. Hillary is the best choice,but many men and women think we are not ready for a woman President. I disagree.
I am a die hard Democrat, but I will vote for McCain before I vote Obama, he will divide this country for sure and this will make us weak and easy prey.

[Garth Strong]

The current US Presidential race may be described as a contest between the UNKNOWN (Obama) the UNLIKEABLE (Clinton) and the UNLIKELY (McCain).

Obama is smooth, slick, swift and incredibly smart....in a straight, clean race he should blow the other two out of the water, or, at least, run rings around them. Presidential races, it seems, have never been "straight": It is NOT a simple case of "who gets the most votes wins": There is the murky business of delegates, super delegates, the electorial college....the Supreme Court...and all that Jazz! ! !

Democracy can be very undemocratic!

OK, Obama is the smartest, but we face the question of the GREAT UNKNOWN: Nobody really knows what Obama stands for or believes in: He has been too smart to be pinned down. He is for change...but change...to what???????? THAT is the question!!!!!

In his favor: Americans desparately want change. They are tired of corruption, and ashamed of Bush. Obama offers hope for the change that Americans urgently seek.

Clinton, in many respects would make a good president. After all, she held the job before...just not in name. She wants to come into her own. The scandals of the last Clinton presidency will, however, doom her chances of being elected.
She is simply not as sharp as Obama,
and does not come across as likeable to many people. Exit Clinton left....UNLESS Obama slips up on his own, or unless some skeleton from his past emerges in the "dredge" phase to carry him away to The Deep, Dark Sea of Oblivion.

The "DREDGE" phase - where skeletons of the past are dredged up and scandale emerge, is very important: It can change the whole picture of the election.

McCain is easily defeatable in a straight race because he is seem as a bargain basement George Bush.

Obama has often been compared to JFK and Martin Luther King.

He must beware the Ides of March.

[J Davis]

It is completely irrelevant whether Obama is black or has a funny-sounding name. What is relevant is that the American public is seriously considering electing a President with zero Foreign Policy experience and almost zero Congress experience. He has visited less countries than a student back-packer on a gap year, yet he will be in charge of the world's largest economy and the world's largest military. Are you seriously going to trust him to negotiate with the likes of Kim Jong-Il, Vladimir Putin or Hugo Chavez? Wake up America.

[joe reilly]

Look what happened last time, a man who fought in Vietnam was beaten by a flag waving right wing Vietnam dodger.

[Jay]

If he is not a muslim then he certainly keeps some strange bedfellows in his so called Christian church. This man has applauded Louis Farrakhan, leader of the virulantly anti semitic 'Nation of Islam' movement. He has as one of his foreign affairs advisers Bryzinski - another virulent anti semite. Sounds pretty muslim to me and certainly not a man I would trust with a nuclear arsenal unless he wants to make a gift to Al Quaeda...

[Holli]

What those abroad fail to realize is that while many Americans enjoyed the economic stability of the 1990s, there were many aspects to the Clinton era that Americans haven't forgotten. There were scandal after scandal regarding corruption. So I think the desire of people to vote for obama stems from the desire to get away from those we've had before that we know bring tremendous baggage.

[JP]

I for one will not be voting in this election. I do NOT feel that ANY of the candidates are qualified to hold the position. It has nothing to do with race or gender. I could care less if it ends up being a woman or a bi-racial man. Seriously, look at the candidates.

Clinton...IMO although she at least tells people her intentions which is more than can be said for Obama...(and no, I don't want to read his website..and a lot of people may not have access to the internet) she is way too hot headed in my opinion. She has made this clear in debates. Seems like a MY way or forget it type of person. Fights dirty. I'm sick of the Clinton's.

Obama....All you hear from him is Change, Change, Change...What exactly are you going to change and how are you going to do it is what I want to know?...Seems to be a talented speaker but leaves out the details (and lets keep in mind that Congress is so bad they probably can't even agree on the time of day, let alone anything else. So, none of the candidates will be able to make change by theirself). Furthermore, if he can't vote something other than present, can he really make a good decision for the US. Oh ummm let me vote... geee I think I'll choose this one...I'm here put me down for present.

Mccain...Don't know about the rest of you but I think we have been at War long enough. We have lost enough of our men and women and for what? (Although...I can only imagine what else may happen here in the States once the troops get pulled out). I personlly just don't think McCain is a good choice.

So, IMO you guys make the choice...I am sitting this one out because I think they all stink. I really don't think any of them will beat Obama though.

[Bob]

When all is said and done I don't see Sen. Obama moving the Electoral map very much. If I had to pick it right now I would shift Ohio and Iowa to the Democrats and New Hampshire and Pa. to the GOP. Delaware might also shift to the GOP and Maine might split it's vote.I think in the end Sen McCain will win a tight race.

[American Cousin]

I'm optimistic that Hillary will pull the nomination out with wins in TX, OH, and PA, and lead a reconciliation at the Democratic Convention so that together the Democratic Party can defeat McCain (possibly by naming Obama as her running mate).

The Clintons haven't split the party. They simply are fighting because they know how important the outcome of this process is. Hillary would be great for the country and the world; Obama is a risk.

Obama will make a great President, but he is not yet ready. This is not American Idol; being young, attractive and charismatic should not outweigh qualities such as experience, expertise and effectiveness. Sure, it would be great to have an African American President, but it is much, much more important to select the person who will make the best President, and in this case that person is Hillary. No contest.

Many of Obama's supporters and most of the mainstream American media have gotten carried away with their enthusiasm for the MTV rock star candidate, and unfairly criticized Senator Clinton. Those are the ones who arguably have split the party.

I hope the primary voters in TX, OH, and PA recognize that this is more important than all that, and help us send Hillary up against McCain.

One more point - Obama's race of course should not be a strike against him, but I doubt very much that the swing voters who elected Bush twice (well, in truth, only once) will be enthusiastic supporters of an Obama campaign. In other words, I worry very much that if Obama is our candidate, McCain probably will win.

[DAvidk]

The issue is not Obma whether Obama is Christian or Muslim, Black Or White. Obama success shows race, and religion are no longer the defining issue in America. The issue is Obama's connection to radical Jihadist and anti-Americans like National of Islam, Sharia loving Raila Odinga in Kenya, and not to mention Wahhabists staffing his campaign.

This plus his disrespect for the flag, and pledge of allegiance makes most Americans nervous. The only exception being the clueless latte sipping crowd who blame their country for everything.

[michael hines]

McCain is nothing more then a warmongering disease. Obama will sweep him away and become our next president without much effort.
Obama 2008!

[dimitri]

obama is a disguise. who is he?
he is john kerry and ted kennedy's mouth piece, but more likeable. can't be fooled by likability and beauty is only skin deep. he would bring a unique new face into the white house, but with disasterous results: higher taxes=deeper recession, less secure against the war on terror, porous border, higher health costs, revitalization of the old cold war with putin and medvedev. the U.S. can't afford those "changes" right now.

consider the flip side, obama looses: what a dissapointment to the groups of people that bought into his idea of "hope", african-americans especially. they'll feel rejected again. but the darn democratic party can't present us with a good and viable option.

and the clintons are not just nasty they're crooked. they would sell off any pieces of america that isn't bolted down to the floor.

[Garry]

Last time I checked, George Bush never negotiated with anybody. He sent people do to it. Barack will do the same.

[W. R. Andrews]

I would like to ask all of these liberals, how do they think they have the right to speak out as they do, (FREEDOM OF SPEECH THAT OUR MEN FOUGHT FOR THIS COUNTRY TO HAVE BY FIGHTING TO PROTECT US HERE. They would be the first ones to hollar out if we were attacked again in the USA. Why don't they sign up into the service and find out what it's all about. They make me so ashamed to say they are americans. They want it all but are not willing to pay the price.

I thank God for our men who faught in the past and for our young men to day who are willing to do their country the honor of protecting us. The only thing those who are holloring about are nothing but yellow. They have no back bone. The only action in them is their mouth and not a brain to know how to engage it.

My father and brother both served in the service, WWII and VIET NAM. Bill Clinton was in England and was ready to give up his american citizenship just so he would not have to go into the service and go to Viet Nam. He was one of the bigges cowards of all. I have no respect for him at all. In my book he is far from being a man and I will never acknowledge him as being one of our pres. He was nothing but a discrace to our country and the position he held .

[Nell E]

I find it interesting that Obama's primary appeal is to the more intelligent of our citizens - understandably! Cheers to him for wanting to honor his roots, cheers to his parents for giving him his father's name, cheers to his wife for expressing what many of us have felt for the past 8 years (less pride in our country than we wish), cheers to Obama for aiming for peace in the world, not war!
Does anyone believe that including "Jesus" in a Latino name makes that person a sacred deity? Then why assume that Hussein is a dirty name?
Obama has a brilliant mind and a spirit of humility - and that combination has been severely lacking in our leaders for many years.

[sliderossian]

I have never voted based on who I would like to have a beer with. Anybody who does that will eventually get Barney from the Simpsons.

This is what I really think about when I judge a candidate:

1. Intelligence. Can he or she articulate complex analysis off-book with the ease and comfort of a college professor?
2. Compassion. Can he or she see from beyond their own economic and social position to empathize with the majority of Americans?
3. Character. Is their personality such that it would beneficially influence diplomatic relationships of all kinds?
4. Presidential Skill. Can their methods be compared to a championship chess game?

Now, if you have 2 of those, or even 3, I am not satisfied. I look for someone with all four.

I am liking Obama more and more.

[UK average person]

you are all nutjobs, especially CAPS.

This man is a threat to the security of the Western world. He has strongly sympathetic muslim tendencies and will surrender the hard fought gains in Iraq and Afghanistan in office.

He is the Manchurian Candidate for muslims! Wake up America before it's too late...

[Jim]

Obama is nothing more than another slick Chicago politician on the make. When more from the Rezko trial in Chicago comes out to the public, I suspect you will read more about the true "Chicago" Barack and Michelle Obama. In Chicago, corrupt politicians come in all shapes, sizes, and colors. The objectives of most Chicago politicians are to get rich, be powerful, and let the masses be asses.

[Can Obama be stopped???]

Obama will only bring dispair.
Obama is the next Bush only a very liberal democrat!
Obama will bring more dispair!
Wake up America
obama will bring us much dispair
Wake up America

[andy o'donnell]

Dear Anyakora
Any country which elected Bush twice can certainly elect anyone including a guy who never did nothing but be black.

[andy o'donnell]

In a straight run race with no color equation and no sex equation Hillary Clinton would easily out pace both of the other candidates.In fact if you take color out Obama has nothing to draw the black vote from Hillary
(black people in America have been sold the hope card so often it is a shame they would buy it from a black peddler)

[andy o'donnell]

J Davis
I completely agree with you.
He even stole his catchphrase from the United Farm Workers(provided to him by one Marshall Ganz a former supporter of Caesar Chavez and now an adviser to Obama)Si se puede translated yes we can.So it seems he will even steal his battle cry from a dead hero without acknowledging it.What a con artist.

[Richard Shaw]

I havew been travelling in America for the last few weeks and currently living in Canada.
Had a chance to listen to many of the vicious comments being made about Hilary Clinton over local roadcasting stations and some of it is not funny. Have now arrived at the conclusion that the republican media would like to run against Obama.
Furthermore, America does not seem to like strong women and are not ready for a female President. Evn the college kids do not seem to have heard of the women who are leading their country or for that matter Maggie Thatcher.
Cheers, Richard on the road

[Mkosa Hadabu]

Do the British ever wonder why their former colony sent a man to the moon and has been on the cutting edge of new ideas? It is by letting the best rise to the top regardless of their background. I guess reading these vile comments from the 'cream' of the British society just validates the choice I made to come to America. Like him or not he is making history and you are reading about it. That is the difference between the bigots on this forum and Obama. As a Kenyan I am elated to see what is possible.

[GIovanni]

To the "Patriotic American":
Your efforts to soil the image of Barak Obama, with vague and
incomprehensible connections with the 11th SEPTEMBER event are
really shameful and make obvious your cultural level.

You must change your mind and wish that Barak Obama will become US
President , if not for other many good reasons, at least for the fact
that his programme will increase dramatically the funds for education...giving you as well, the possibility to take advantage of them.

Emperor Federic II of Hohenstaufen, a patron of the arts and sciences,
and a philosopher, poet and scientist in his own right, the founder of the University of Naples, where the study on human anatomy started, fluent in French, German, Italian, Greek, Latin, and also in Arabic, managed with a conciliatory, but successful crusade to obtain Jerusalem from the Muslims through skilful negotiations with al-Kamil, the Sultan of Cairo. His abilities, accomplishments and attitudes astonished his contemporaries and earned him the name of Stupor mundi, "The Wonder of the World."

Two successive Popes were led, among other reasons, to excommunicate him 3 times. There were even those who insinuated that having taken back Jerusalem for Christianity in a peaceful way, without any loss of human
life, and speaking Arabic, Federic II was a closet Muslim !!!

Dear "Patriotic American": What I have told above happened in the 13th Century , but , mutatis mutandis, your comment demonstrates that obscurantist approaches dictated by ignorance and fear against change,are still common practice these days as is revealed by your attack against a man who is fighting to win the Presidency for a better World and a better America!

Yes, a better America with a President who will promote the Good for his Country and the rest of the World and who will not permit any longer that public money paid by US citizens with their taxes could be used by the CIA and the secretary of States for evil actions such as the ones
which provoked the other 11th September, the first one, the one of
the 11th SEPTEMBER 1973, when democracy was killed in Chile and a Fascist dictatorship (which caused the death of more than one hundred thousand people, many after torture) was installed as is admitted in the official
document of the Department of State of US you can read at the link below
http://foia.state.gov/Reports/ChurchReport.asp#B.%20Executive%20Command%20and%20Control%20of%20Major%20Covert%20Action

Osama Bin Laden? Certainly a criminal, no doubt about this, but what about Henry Kissinger who instead received the Nobel Prize for peace? Of course you know that he was a Republican as the 2 Presidents Bush who have been so expert diplomats that war has always been their only solution !
Dear "Patriotic American": It is time for a deep change, it is time for Barak Obama !

[Chuks the GREAT]

The negative comments posted about Obama, are baseless, ridiculous and at best naïve.

Even Fox TV's Sean Hannity and Bill O'Reily have struggled to find something negative on Obama! Trust me, they have been searching for almost a year! The funny thing is one sense's that the conservative right, including Fox TV commentators actually admire Obama! Only in America!

Some people have decried change...I'm not American, but I would really feel proud to be American at this moment if I was. Why some may say? Well, those voting in the primaries are telling the rest of the world that America is not afraid to change for the better. Let's face it, a recession bound economy, exposure in Iraq, a general hostility towards Americans all over the world, c'mon if people think that change is not the answer, they are in cloud cuckoo land! But Europeans have no right to judge Americans. In the UK, the nearest a black politician could get to 10 Downing street, would be as an African leader on an official visit. A decade ago the Tories revolted when a black candidate was selected to fight the Cheltenham bye-election. Tory constituents voted for a Liberal Democrat candidate in protest, rather than select one of their own, a Black Tory!

The USA is quite segregated, and racism still exists, but in the USA excellence excels! That's why if you're Black and you are good enough, you will live the American dream. No one can say the same happens in any European country; and where it does, it is a clear exception, rather than the rule! The UK presents itself as model of racial harmony, but one only needs to look at the ratio of Black graduates that go on to become CEO's or make it to senior management in industry to see that the proof is missing from the pudding. In the UK, businesses would rather recruit Australians, White South Africans or White Zimbabweans than take advantage of the burgeoning Black talent available to them. Even in sport, not even one successful Black footballer has gone on to manage at the highest level. Paul Ince, a seasoned international player had to start his career as a manager with a non-league team and work his way up, while Gareth Southgate gets a prime job at Middlesbrough days after hanging up his boots...get my drift!

If Obama is selected as the nominee for the Democratic Party, the US will be sending a clear message out to the whole world; that in the words of Thomas Jefferson, " all men are created equal", and that a Black man, just like any White counterpart could aspire to lead such a great country.

[Obama truth]

Hillary Clinton has run a clean campaign. There are a lot of ugly things about Obama that she did not make hay with. Long ago, Clinton staffers could have put out video clips of Nation of Islam spokespeople saying some very violent things about white people. They could have also played up on Jeremiah Wright and the Trinity Church of Christ and their love for Louis Farrakhan. Clinton staffers could have focused on how Obama claims Jeremiah Wright as his lifelong mentor. I think the Clinton staffers have shown remarkable restraint, because the truth about Obama is Obama’s worst enemy. This campaign shows that Clinton has Morals because she could have had this primary in the bag if she only allowed her staffers to go after Obama with his own words and actions.

[Carney]

Obama is far to the left of past failed Democratic candidates who were rejected for their leftism. Even Bill Clinton, relatively centrist for a Democrat, won twice only because the right split its support between the Republican nominee and Ross Perot in 92 and 96.

Despite the intense effort to hail him as the Second Coming, and to guilt-trip and racially blackmail America into electing him, Obama will be crushingly defeated, on the issues. Democrats often have big leads early in election years, bouyed by media fawning and flower-strewing, but then end up losing when their stances on the issues are made known. Ask Presidents Mondale, Dukakis, Gore*, and Kerry.

And then the Politically Correct domestic, British, and worldwide media will snarl in fury, whipping up racial tensions by blaming the phantom of "racism" for the Democrats' self-imposed defeat.

If and when either party, but especially the Republicans, nominate a black man who is genuinely culturally conservative, who has a record of actual achivement and accomplishment, (preferably in the military or business rather than merely in politics), and who desires victory for American arms rather than shameful defeat in the face of our terrorist enemies, you will see America joyfully embracing him. Not Obama.

*(And no, Gore was NOT the winner, by the way, the media deliberately jumped the gun and "called" Florida for Gore when the conservative western part of the state still had an hour to vote, causing thousands of Bush voters to turn around in their cars and go home.)

[ronski]

Let me see - England has been around for a thousand years longer than the USA(who saved their bacon twice in the last century), and how many blacks have made a serious run for Prime Minister? You Go B.O.!

[ronski]

As a white Republican, my biggest regret is that Colin Powell never ran for President, and I never got the opportunity to vote for him. He would have made a Great President!

[Nick Obita]

Can Obama be beaten? The simplest answer to your question is NO,I dont think Obama(Wod Twon) can be beaten by anybody Senator Clinton or McCain because he has got the X-factor. He has fed the Greater American crowd with a clear message of hope, change, and he gave them glimpse of the vision of the New American Dream.

[San Ying]

Hillary needs a reality check. Can a tsunami be stopped?

[Allen Perdue]

I certainly hope so for this countries sake. He will be beaten. He has no real ideas. Hope, will not last. Hey all you libs? Why don't we just make the winner of American Idol the president. It would be fun! It would "feel" good. He will be just as qualified. You liberals are amazing. You think we can make the world Disneyland. Just say it enough and hope! Reality Check!!! There is evil all around us. And no, we did not cause it you fools. There is evil because there will always be evil and there has always been evil. They are just waiting to destroy our freedoms and our way of life. They won't listen to a humble, weak leader. They will laugh at him. An experienced, strong military along with strong leadership is the only thing keeping this country from being overtaken.Our country getting weaker and sicker each day. Its slowely happening as more and more of our children are being brainwashed by the liberal movement in public schools. Thats another subject. Sorry, I don't want to be part of a movement that weakens us and puts our destiny in the hands of ignorant people with ignorant philosophys. And one last thing...Take care of yourselfs and stop looking to someone else to take care of you all. Vote Republican...

[Matt]

It's ridiculous to assume that if Clinton or Obama aren't elected, then it's due to a sexist or racist voting population. I couldn't care less about the race or sex of my potential president. What I DO care about is whether that person supports a destructive & idiotic left wing socialist agenda. THAT'S why neither Obama nor Clinton will be getting my vote. I don't think I'm alone on that.

[Karino Rivera]

8 years ago many of the Republicans were for some odd reason tired of the "Clinton politics" and though the election of 2000 was the most controversial of its time, the Republicans got what they wanted: a Republican President, a republican majority. As a result of this, the regime carry out this scare that IRAQ had weapons of mass destruction and our Republican President had the answer to our woes, get rid of Saddam Hussein. A nd in the midst of this foolishness we had 9-11. People never realize that 9-11 happened for the same neglect seen with the devastation and neglect of the Hurrican Katrina victims. And when there was no weapons of mass destruction the regime cries out a war on terror justifying this expensive military budget. The same Americans that were ill advise to elect this Republican are making the same mistake of not realizing that OBAMA represents change. Yes, this IRAQ crisis is a challenge but does not deserve another 10 years with another Republican in office. Nor should this crisis open up wounds left from the Clinton regime.
Another thing, it is amazing how this regime has influence the minds of American people. WAKE UP AMERICA! Don't remain blinded by the mistakes and negligence of the Republican regime. I think the same Americans who oppose of OBAMA being President are the same Americans who were manipulated to believe that the Bush regime has done America some good and have forgotten the errors of the Clinton regime. You know this is a wonderful thing-that Obama is running for President this will in deed show the world how racist, bigoted and pathetically divided the United State really is in acceptance. And no he cannot be stopped. I think America has realize that OBAMA represents change. And all the hearsayers and naysayers are the same people who were hooked on this "belief" in the Bush politics in the beginning yet have not accept the error in their ways. Its a pain to publicly hear- "I told you so...." Go OBAMA! We want change for America!!

[elainek]

While reading the above comments I was surprised to see how many assumed Obama would be the more radical liberal candidate. Obama is much more commited to the unification of American politics, than historically divisive Clinton. Also, has anyone stopped to think of the swing independent voters who REFUSE to vote for Clinton because of her divisive politics?

Whether or not Obama can live up to the promises he projects so eloquantly, it is a simbolic change the world is looking for. Whether or not conservative America wants to admit it, increasingly EVERY country is responsible to every other country. Obama is that change.

Plus, do we really want to undermine our democracy by continuing dynasties?!?

[Allen]

Karino,
You expose an obvious ignorance.
#1/ We were not in Iraq before 9-11
#2/Many democrats including Clinton voted to rid the world of a murderous regime. Along with other world leaders.
#3/ You are an obvious racist. Anyone who votes for Hillary or McCain must be doing it because of color huh? What an idiot.. Barack Hussein Obama? NO BO for me, sorry and its not "cause he's black"

[UK bloke]

"..Now that the Clinton clan have opened up the possibility that he may be a closet Muslim,his popularity will wane..."

is has been safely established that hubby Bill is a closet pervert who has perverted sex with an almost teenage secretary.
The most shameful thing about this election is the fact the Clinton's were EVER allowed to take part....They are obscene,.she more so for staying married to a pervert and Liar.
Bill did not think much of the safety of the USA when he was playing his cigar games with Monika while his troops where in danger

[Kay]

I am still waiting for Obama to say something other than Change, Hope, change, Hope....
He is a good Con artist who is able to sell empty slogans. Even the words he uses in his speeches are borrowed. He has nothing substantial to say. Has anyone else noticed that he speaks well only in his rallies (because his speeches are already written for him) and stutters and mumbles during debates.
It's scary to think that a rookie Senator with only 2 years in the US Senate (most of which was spent campaigning for Presidency), who has ties with corrupt people like Tony Rezko, is able to fool so many people.

[Nicholas]

Obama is the only undamaged candidate. Hillary was damaged by Bill's dalliances - she is out to prove something and post traumatic stress syndrome seems to have affected McCain's ability to stick to his guns.

The USA is most likely to vote in McCain regardless of who the democrat is, as the margin of difference will again be absorbed by the spoiler, Ralph Nader.

[Haydee Pelosi]

I am ashamed of the manipulation of parties to get the Republicans to win and continue the destruction of the good old USA...What a shame! I thought that Hillary will win and get Obama as a vicepresident and while he learns the ropes he could run and win in 8 years...as it is America is made of many ignorant voters and they will do the wrong thing one more time...Did we not paid a high price? We have not learn from our error what a shame!

[chakum choli]

all those who oppose Obama are pin in the bud. wake up from your slumber and help the man make your dream come true. for a peaceful, safer and better wprld; Obama will deliver.

[Toto]

I honestly can't believe how ignorant some of my fellow Americans are. I am not supporting Obama, but I can't help but wonder why some people here think he's a "closet muslim." Do you honestly think that a closet muslim would use a muslim name if he is TRYING TO HIDE his identity? THINK PEOPLE, THINK! And all you racist people, aren't you ashamed by the fact that his mother is white and he was raised by his WHITE grandparents? I am really starting to worry about the intellectual level of my fellow countrymen.

[Jordan]

If Obama does become president and is true to his promise for change, he is going to need Congress to effect that change. So voters should also be paying attention to the campaigns of the congressional districts up for election this year. Obama wil be needing as many like-minded congressmen and senators as he can get to make the most of his first 2 years in office. Otherwise, we will have to wait until the next congressional elections to elect the Obama-inspired young people who decide to enter public service. There needs to be a sea change of the whole system--White House, the Capitol, and the Supreme Court--for any progress to be made.

[A S]

So what if he is a muslim? Seriously..., so what? I honestly think it would neutralise this Islam vs Christian crap going on at the moment. If some oppose purely because of his religion, we're gonna be stuck in this backwards world for a long time....., remember religion has nothing to do with terrorism.

[Andrew Ryan]

Kelly C: "I think the world will will laugh if Obama is elected as president, to how we would allow the someone with his name sounding like 2 of our main issues, Iraq and Osama."

You're against Obama because 'Barack' sounds (tenuously) like Iraq? What next? Voting against McCain because 'John' is another word for toilet?

I believe that Senator Obama is the best candidate out there. He is young and is in touch with the mode of the times. The young people love him.It is clear that the American people cannot win a war in Iraq. Ms. Clinton should have had the foresight to realize that when she voted for the war.

[nearamerican]

well if obama wins, his victory drive shall be done in dallas that is for sure.
If you are a true american you should vote mcain or clinton.
Obama is going to fail to stop the american recession.
Experience over skin colour any day.

[bhagwan deol]

by now we know all the defects in hillary but obama is like a polished ware and will take time to
tarnish may be it will be too late.
obama drums up his ante against lobyists but bought the house through questionable loan arrangements with an indicted lobyist.WHAT IT TELLS YOU. THE GUY IS FAKE. IF HE HAD MUSLIM HERITAGE HE SHOULD ADMIT IT AND AT THE SAME
TIME HE HAS EVERY RIGHT TO CONVERT TO CHRISTIANITY.
ABOUT THE GARB>all prominent people
when they visit other countries and offered national dresses and they wear them and the whole world see them on tv.why he had to hide this picture. what was the motive behind hiding
OBAMA IS MAKING A RACIAL ISSUE OUT OF IT AS HE INDIRECTLY MADE ISSUE OF BEING BLACK WITH BLACK FOLKS AND NOW HIS SURROGATES ARE THREATENING BLACK SUPER DELEGATES TO VOTE FOR HIM BECAUSE HE IS BLACK.
WHEN WILL AMERICANS COME TO THEIR SENSES AND REALISE THAT THIS GUY IS FAKE . HE IS LIKE A HOLLOW DRUM WITH TOO MUCH NOISE AND NO VALUE
bhagwan deol. irvine . california

The Clintons, and certain other quarters would have it said that Karl Rove is behind all t