Political Insider

By NATIVE

January 9, 2008 8:57 AM | Link to this

Who didn’t see this coming?

By John in Tampa, FLA

January 9, 2008 9:04 AM | Link to this

Gee whiz, her endorsement should give Obama the primary by a landslide.

By Happy in Conyers

January 9, 2008 9:12 AM | Link to this

I like the fact that Shirley Franklin can think for herself. She has the right to make her own choice. That is the thing that keeps me for choosing Hillary Clinton. She didn’t go with her own thoughts when it came to 911. She went with the masses. That bothers me.

By Diogenes

January 9, 2008 9:17 AM | Link to this

This is “news” … why, exactly? The tangible effect of this “news” … nada, zilch.

By Michael

January 9, 2008 9:19 AM | Link to this

Gee, what were the odds.

By Shirley Sux

January 9, 2008 9:23 AM | Link to this

I would prefer Mayor Franklin spend more time worrying about the rapidly decaying quality of life in this city and less time praising presidential candidates. The streets of Midtown are in HORRENDOUS shape and barely passable. And she has DONE NOTHING to address the situation. Our Mayor is a useless spotlight grabber who cares NOTHING for the people she pretends to represent. Remember your “pot hole posse” Shirley?! What a joke.

By wildbillhiltner

January 9, 2008 9:23 AM | Link to this

Wonder if Barry will disallow Franklin’s endorsement in light of the politics of division she practiced bt demonizing white America whilst endorsing Eaves. Also, given the mess I her own home one cannot understand how a mainstram politician would welcome her endorsement.

By k martin

January 9, 2008 9:26 AM | Link to this

Jump on board the O train folks… let’s elect someone who can unite this country, rather than the same old partisan divide created by the Clintons and Bushes.

Compromise and unity is the only thing that will bring this nation out of a funk

great judgement Mayor Franklin!

By Lee

January 9, 2008 9:37 AM | Link to this

I get the impression hardly anyone listens to her anymore anyway. Remember her part in the negative ads against a gentlemen running for Fulton County Commission chairman a couple of years ago … how disgusting was that?

By jay

January 9, 2008 9:37 AM | Link to this

well there’s a shock. this is the same woman that sent a letter to the judge telling him Michael Vick was a roll model.

By Robert Bass

January 9, 2008 9:41 AM | Link to this

Mayor Franklin is doing an excellent job for the city and she is doing the right thing by following her gut and backing Obama for President, this is the chance for America to set things right, it would a defining moment in history. America would become a more prefect union As for Hillary she would make a great VP.

By Cane

January 9, 2008 9:46 AM | Link to this

I’m for Obama. But I wish that her endorsement to support Obama wasn’t published. Franklin has as much credibility as Jesse Jackson.

By Steven

January 9, 2008 9:48 AM | Link to this

Considering Obama is big on saying he’s an agent of change, maybe we should take that to heart and “change” leadership in Atlanta. The mayor has done very little the past few years except see her family end up in jail or the hospital. Fixing pot holes was nice but what does it say about a city where a large group of employees walk off the job when a bank is a few hours late on getting their paycheck deposited? Pink slips should have been with their next check stubs, but no one is willing to tackle that “change” including Franklin.

By Jeff

January 9, 2008 10:00 AM | Link to this

Mayor Franklin needs to spend less time endorsing candidates and writing impassioned letters to judges asking for leniency for felons (Vick) and more time on hiring police officers to keep up with the growing population of the city. While not a policeman, I am a citizen that is observing the lack of police presence to keep up with the petty crime running rampant through out city. Get it with Shirley! You have more responsibilities in this city than fixing our sewers.

By Jeff

January 9, 2008 10:00 AM | Link to this

Mayor Franklin needs to spend less time endorsing candidates and writing impassioned letters to judges asking for leniency for felons (Vick) and more time on hiring police officers to keep up with the growing population of the city. While not a policeman, I am a citizen that is observing the lack of police presence to keep up with the petty crime running rampant through out city. Get it with Shirley! You have more responsibilities in this city than fixing our sewers.

By SharonH

January 9, 2008 10:07 AM | Link to this

The people who don’t like Shirley are probably the same people who are bitter about Maynard winning the first election back in 1973. They need to get over it. She is the best thing that has happened to this city in years and frankly, Atlanta has never been in better shape. Never.

As for her endorsement of Obama, that is her prerogative and I admire her willingness not to go along with the establishment, none of whom have given a compelling reason for endorsing Hilary. (see Andrew Young)

By PR

January 9, 2008 10:15 AM | Link to this

This is the same Shirley that wrote a letter to try to help dog-killer Michael Vick. Obama may be a nice guy, but he has NO EXPERIENCE in national government. Hell, he hasn’t even finished one term as a senator. I don’t need some rookie running the federal government. We put one rookie loser in for 8 years, we don’t need another one.

By PR

January 9, 2008 10:15 AM | Link to this

This is the same Shirley that wrote a letter to try to help dog-killer Michael Vick. Obama may be a nice guy, but he has NO EXPERIENCE in national government. Hell, he hasn’t even finished one term as a senator. I don’t need some rookie running the federal government. We put one rookie loser in for 8 years, we don’t need another one.

By PR

January 9, 2008 10:15 AM | Link to this

This is the same Shirley that wrote a letter to try to help dog-killer Michael Vick. Obama may be a nice guy, but he has NO EXPERIENCE in national government. Hell, he hasn’t even finished one term as a senator. I don’t need some rookie running the federal government. We put one rookie loser in for 8 years, we don’t need another one.

By Lisa

January 9, 2008 10:18 AM | Link to this

Wow Steven, I suppose you don’t have family members that embarrass you. If you don’t,you must be of a family of one. We all have that issue.

While you are fair in your belief that some issues should be addressed and change is required, talking about issues one can not control is unfair.

By Zeke

January 9, 2008 10:19 AM | Link to this

I see that the Nattering Nabobs of Negativity are out in full force! Shirley Franklin is nationally recognized as one of the best mayors in the country. She has done an excellent job by any measure with the resources that she was given. I have been a resident of Atlanta most of my life, and the changes that have occurred during mayor Franklin’s administration is unmatched, including pre-Olympic Atlanta. So stop whining about the Mayor, she has no control over most things that you clowns are complaining about - if you really need something to whine about, whine about this rag of a newspaper that you have in this city.

By pargolf

January 9, 2008 10:21 AM | Link to this

Wow, what a surprise. No one wants to talk about it, but this is a race issue and black people will stick with black people and it never rings more true than in politics today. Was it any surprise when Oprah endorsed Obama. Give me a break. I’ve yet to see any high black profile person endorse anyone other than Obama. Wake up people!

By Will Jones

January 9, 2008 10:21 AM | Link to this

The Mayor made the right move breaking from the Establishment to endorse Senator Obama for President. All human civilization pivots on urban culture and Atlanta is America’s hope for salvaging The Republic from the constitutional distress and overt treason we now suffer at the hands of the bi-partisan false-elite being fronted by Bush/Cheney and the Clintons.

Unrighteousness shall not prevail in Our Land. Mayor Franklin has taken a step on the Path of Righteousness by endorsing Barack Obama. May The People fully support his candidacy and G-d Bless America once more.

Death for Treason. Probity, Economy, Justice.

By Josh

January 9, 2008 10:22 AM | Link to this

After embodying gutter politics of the worst kind in 2006 (with Andy Young, saying that if the GOP won some county seat, there’d be lynchings like the past), for once, Mayour Franklin has the common sense NOT to endorse Sen Clinton. Good. At least she has shown common sense unlike a lot of so-called respected black elites (Ambassador Young included), who continue to kiss Clinton a*.

By Cynthia McKinney

January 9, 2008 10:24 AM | Link to this

You better endorse me.

By Fernao

January 9, 2008 10:29 AM | Link to this

I grew up in Atlanta but I got out of that place as soon as I could . I could see it going down when Bill Campbell was mayor. The Olympics there was a joke. Along with everything else in Atlanta. the falcons, the braves, the hawks, the thrashers. Why is it that every county except for Fulton and Dekalb have their own public transport system and not part of Marta? Enough said.

By Jesse Benjamin

January 9, 2008 10:29 AM | Link to this

Not a shock. This “woman” endorsed convicted felon Vick and raised her daughter to be a dope dealer. Yep, her endorsement makes Hussein Oh-bamalama a shoo in for the White House, where the first thing he’ll do is change the racist name.

By Ray Robison

January 9, 2008 10:30 AM | Link to this

Much like Bill Clinton, Obama sounds fantastic when he makes a speech, but when it is done, you can’t remember anything of substance that he said, because he doesn’t really say anything. How superficial we have become as a society.

Ray Robison is the author of Both In One Trench: Saddam’s Secret Terror Documents’

http://www.bothinonetrench.com

By JG

January 9, 2008 10:31 AM | Link to this

To PR:

Let’s recognize that either of the Democratic frontrunners, if elected, will have the least political experience of any President since WW2. Obama has his partial term, Hilary has 8 years, and no, sleeping with your governor or president husband is not “experience”. (If that metric is true, we should all vote for Barbara Bush should she choose to run.)

BTW, the President with the least experience since WW2 is George W Bush — and we all know how well THAT’S turned out…….

JG

By truthy

January 9, 2008 10:34 AM | Link to this

This is a surprise because?

In the land of Cynthia McKinney, anything seems possible. I thank God daily that I do not live anywhere near there.

By hotlanta

January 9, 2008 10:34 AM | Link to this

Excuse me PR but did Regan have any experience except for being in a movie called “Bedtime for Bonzo” and being a fake John Wayne on a horse. Jimmy Carter was a peanut farmer.And what school(s) did they graduate from. The only experience that Hillary has is for being married to Bill and dealing with his infidelity for 35 years.That obly shows has a president she is tolarant andd she ignores serious issues. Obama has served in some capicity in political office even though it is not being the president. It is not like he just woke up and said I am gonna run for President and he only has a GED. I would put his experience/ education and especially his wife’s Michalle education/experience against any of the past presidents and those other croonies we have in DC anyday. PLEASE stop the madness. Bush is just there because of his father. Ask Dan Quall to spell potato. Remember that. Oh he had experience. RIGHT!!!

By GeezGuys

January 9, 2008 10:38 AM | Link to this

Great, Obama makes her feel good. So did Michael Vick. Shirley should go back to what she’s good at—administration—and quit messing in political races.

By Houckster

January 9, 2008 10:38 AM | Link to this

Based on Fernao’s post, when he left there was one less joke here in Atlanta.

By Lee

January 9, 2008 10:38 AM | Link to this

Birds of a feather … flock together.

By J-Man

January 9, 2008 10:39 AM | Link to this

Right on Brother Steven.

In politics you have those who like, and those who don’t like, the politician in question. That’s good to be looking at all sides of the worm. You shouldn’t be surprised that-a-way, when the worm is ready to defecate so you can stand out of the way.

Atlanta is its best, Ever? That I know isn’t right, because I go all over the cities and know that, on the general, overall average, Atlanta is a hurtin’ lady right now.

By Flander Annapolis

January 9, 2008 10:40 AM | Link to this

Hillary is going to get the “sympathy” vote from women, especially the ones whose husbands cheat. Her experience is being a FOOL

By david

January 9, 2008 10:41 AM | Link to this

can anyone tell me why atlanta is LAST in education, FIRST in foreclosures, and FIRST in chaos?

By Lee

January 9, 2008 10:41 AM | Link to this

Ask Mr. or Ms. Hotlanta above how to spell Dan Quayle .. yes, its Quayle

By Joe Blow

January 9, 2008 10:43 AM | Link to this

who cares what candidate she endorses

By rkadp

January 9, 2008 10:43 AM | Link to this

El gato,

Please keep such racist remarks to yourself. You are clearly ignorant, uneducated, rude, inconsiderate and a jerk. If you cannot contribute something meaningful and positive to public debate, please keep to yourself.

By Jim

January 9, 2008 10:47 AM | Link to this

Wow….didn’t see THAT coming, did you Captain Obvious?

By J-Man

January 9, 2008 10:48 AM | Link to this

pargolf - Some may question that statement, because some prominent blacks have endorsed Hillary.

Of course, you could debate that point because Bill was the first Black President (as stated by a number of Prominent Blacks), and no one has accused the Clintons of being a bi-racial family.

In all seriousness, though, there are quite a few blacks of high visibility who have endorsed people other than blacks for political office. The number is quite large and includes, for instance, Sharpton, Jackson, Raspberry, and Thomas.

By Dave Kamka

January 9, 2008 10:51 AM | Link to this

Ask yourself why the pools were so accurate for McCain, but so wrong for Obama. The answer is as obvious as the skin on Obama’s face. White liberals and “free thinking” independents who love to TALK about supporting Black folks just couldn’t pull the lever for a strong and independent Black man that does not need their liberal guilt-pity and condescending attitude. It’s simply the classic liberal plantation mentality coming to the fore. Faced with actually putting up or shutting up…they shut up. Or should I say shut out Obama. Just watch the dirt fly now from Hillary! The pitiful thing is that so many Black voters are just so brainwashed that they will support the white candidate that holds them in contempt instead of supporting their own man!

By jay

January 9, 2008 10:51 AM | Link to this

it is one thing to support someone but to only support someone because they are black is another and that is what the black community is doing. this man has already said he will raise taxes which means if you are sick everytime you look at your paycheck now just wait until he becomes your president. sit down and look at what he is saying instead of looking at the color of his skin and the same goes for Ms. Clinton and the rest of the democratic party. I really believe the black community thinks that just because he is black he is going to make it very easy for the black community wrong every bill has to go through the Senate and be voted on. it’s just like the Republicans wanting to lower taxes well just because Bush is the president doesn’t mean he can just say ok I am the president I am lowering them, it does not work that way and for what ever reason the democrats only want to raise the taxes so they can continue to support the low lives of our nation that does not want to get their lazy butts up and work they want you to have to rely on the goverment to raise your children..get a grip America

By The Cold, Hard Truth

January 9, 2008 10:51 AM | Link to this

Evidently, hotlanta is a “product” of the Atlanta Public School System.

If he/she/it had a REAL education, hotlanta would know that Reagan served eight years as the governor of California before running for POTUS.

The fact of the matter is that Hussein Obama is one of the LEAST qualified “serious” presidential candidates in American history.

God help us if such an underwhelming individual ever gains the office of POTUS.

By Florian

January 9, 2008 10:51 AM | Link to this

WOW! As if her opinion matters? She’s been a disgrace for several years not the least of which her support for Vick and her little race-baiting tactic a few years ago. Shirley has done more to turn Atlanta into a poverty-stricken ghetto than MS-13, the Crips & Bloods could ever hope to do. Nice job! And no Barack Hussein doesn’t stand a chance in the general election.

By puhleez

January 9, 2008 10:52 AM | Link to this

DUH…..big surprise there!!

She needs to spend more time focusing on the issues in Atlanta and less time trying to garner press coverage endorsing candidates.

By Agt. Smart

January 9, 2008 10:56 AM | Link to this

So!

By michael

January 9, 2008 10:58 AM | Link to this

Maybe he can pardon your ex son and law and the rest of your trash family.

By Tampa

January 9, 2008 10:58 AM | Link to this

Hotlanta

President Reagan (not Regan) was governor of California our most populous state. President Carter was governor of Georgia, also a very large state.

Sounds like experience to me.

By big surprise

January 9, 2008 10:59 AM | Link to this

No big surprise. Does anyone remember the campaign ad she, John Lewis and Andrew Young did to help out John Eaves during his run for Fulton County Chairman. I wonder if she plans to throw in more of this same kind of “support.”

By Rusty

January 9, 2008 11:00 AM | Link to this

Does anyone know what Obamas stand is on slave reparations?He has one folks.Anyone looked at his activities/playmates BEFORE he was elected to the US Senate?His endorsement of a Chicago Alderwoman named Tillman is a great place to start.America may be trying to become colorblind,but this guy isn’t.

By Shirly

January 9, 2008 11:04 AM | Link to this

I laugh at all those people that say: Well I grew up in Atlanta and got the heck out of there. It was just a nightmare! Growing up in Conyers or going towards Alabama is not Atlanta. However, you still sneak and read the AJC everyday to see wants going on around the city. Give it a rest!

By Barry

January 9, 2008 11:05 AM | Link to this

Hey Y’all:

Why not Obama? For this man to be in the position he is in today shows that he has the tangibles and intangibles of a good LEADER. In this world, with its changing political environment, and the terrorist variable, it is imperative that we have a President/Leader who does not represent the arrogant American persona as we had in the past and currently have in the present. Obama represent a breath of fresh air in leadership style and charisma. We can use the past as a basis but we need young and current leadership to take us into a righteous and prosperous future in this coountry and the world. Shirley Franklin and Kasim Reed made the right choice in selecting Obama. Thier choice represents their vision for the future and it also represents mine.

SSSSSSSHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!!!!! This is a SECRET from an OBAMA fan. TELL EVERYBODY.

Ringold

By Barry

January 9, 2008 11:06 AM | Link to this

Hey Y’all:

Why not Obama? For this man to be in the position he is in today shows that he has the tangibles and intangibles of a good LEADER. In this world, with its changing political environment, and the terrorist variable, it is imperative that we have a President/Leader who does not represent the arrogant American persona as we had in the past and currently have in the present. Obama represent a breath of fresh air in leadership style and charisma. We can use the past as a basis but we need young and current leadership to take us into a righteous and prosperous future in this coountry and the world. Shirley Franklin and Kasim Reed made the right choice in selecting Obama. Thier choice represents their vision for the future and it also represents mine.

SSSSSSSHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH!!!!!!!!! This is a SECRET from an OBAMA fan. TELL EVERYBODY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!.

Ringold

By hotlanta

January 9, 2008 11:09 AM | Link to this

Excuse me Jay. Why is that every race VOTE for their canidate that looks like them but everyone try to criticize and tell Black folks not to do it. Why did the headlines say that WOMEN supported Hillary instead of MEN supported Hillary. Because FEMALES supported someone who looked like them whether they liked her position on issues or not. PLEASE!!!!White folks and other races live in their same race commmunites and send their kids to same race schools and so on and it’s okay. But the minute we do it is is racist. Excuse me Brittany is rich and still tooo lazy to raise her own kids. What is her excuse. Quit blaming everything on poor black people.

By racaulk

January 9, 2008 11:10 AM | Link to this

pargolf - Ever heard of John Lewis? If you live in the city of Atlanta, he’s probably your US Representative. He has served the 5th district of Georgia, which includes the bulk of Atlanta proper, for 21 years. He’s a black man and guess who he endorsed? Here’s a hint: it wasn’t Obama.

This is not a case of “blacks sticking together.” Get your head out of the sand and try thinking before you post more ignorant and unfounded comments.

By gtfan

January 9, 2008 11:11 AM | Link to this

who cares

I’m surprised she didn’t say, *’voting for the other candidate is like going back to the 60’s and getting hosed down’ *

By AW

January 9, 2008 11:17 AM | Link to this

AJC needs to stop these blogs. Although designed for debate and insight, alot of the comments posted are either ignorant or racist in nature. Grow up people!

The mayor is doing a great job with the resources that she has and is free to endorse whichever candidate she choses,even if we disagree.

Its okay to disagree but can leave the ignorant & racist comments out.

By Jackie

January 9, 2008 11:20 AM | Link to this

Of course she endorsed him. They’re the same color, LOL.. What a shocker!!! NOT.

By JRH

January 9, 2008 11:22 AM | Link to this

Compare and contrast - who used the word “I” more in the final speeches last night, Hillary or Obama?

By jay

January 9, 2008 11:22 AM | Link to this

please blacks always stick together. you see that everytime a black athlete gets in trouble you hear the excuses. it’s always a race issue with the community and that will never change.

By Uncle Tom

January 9, 2008 11:27 AM | Link to this

Who in the world cares? Really, her endorsements mean nothing. In about 10 years, the civil rights “leaders” will all be in retirement homes hooked up to ventilators. The young black people of America know nothing about civil rights history. Most can’t even get past the sixth grade. What a wonderful job black leaders have done to black america. If either Obama or Hillary wins, that will bring the conservative movement back like never before. Putting a person in office because of skin color or gender is as smart as taking a knife and slicing your wrist. I think that white people should move back to Atlanta and take over the city and remove all black politicians. Now, start calling me a racist.

By DefWatch

January 9, 2008 11:29 AM | Link to this

Boy the critics sure come out of the woods to criticize Mayor Franklin whenever they get a chance in the BLOGs.

How many of them are actually doing something in Atlanta community advocacy besides criticizing? For that matter how many actually live in the city?

It is easy to sit a keyboard and chuck rocks, but it actually requires work and commitment to participate in the process, attend NPU meetings and council meetings and facilitate change.

Decades of neglect also require money. How many of you true Atlanta residents want another tax increase?

I wonder will the complaints be the same intensity when eventually Atlanta has a white Mayor like Clark Howard and we realize he can’t wave a magic wand either.

By MM

January 9, 2008 11:31 AM | Link to this

Is interesting that our country is still so race conscious; it is also interesting that Obama is half white, so why is he always referred to as “black”?

By Tom Dockery

January 9, 2008 11:36 AM | Link to this

You can do more for yourself than any politician can ever do for you.If the African-American population continues to look for a messiah,they’ll fall further and further behind in the new America.

By jay

January 9, 2008 11:45 AM | Link to this

MM I will answer that stupid question. I happen to be listening to Tom Joyner show one morning and he had Obama on and the first words that came out of Obama’s mouth was “what up my brotha” now you tell me why he is considerd black it’s because he considers himself black.

By Kady

January 9, 2008 11:51 AM | Link to this

I love Mayor Franklin and believe in her and think she has helped change Atlanta for the best. I am very disappointed in her support of anyone but Sen. Clinton-who has the most experience-may not be the best speaker-but will make the changes necessary to move the country forward…

BUT Ms. Mayor, you can change your mind just like you change your beautiful flowers you wear!

By HillaryFan

January 9, 2008 11:57 AM | Link to this

If the Obama somehow manages to win the nomination, I, for the first time in my life, will vote republican. It will take everything that we as a nation can give to handle the Middle East in the next couple of years and Obamalama ain’t got it. Hillary (with Bill as a wonderful bonus) is.

Gooooo, Hillary!!!

By Walter

January 9, 2008 11:59 AM | Link to this

Just out of curiosity, what “changes” will Obama bring about ? I know he is a socialist, but I wonder how those people who will are slaves to government extortion via the income tax will feel about having their taxes raised even further ? will they feel any unity toward Obama and his parasite followers ? I’d really like someone to explain that.

By Corey

January 9, 2008 11:59 AM | Link to this

For all the people griping about Mayor Franklin writing a letter to Vick’s judge. Hank Aaron also wrote a letter as did other popular sports figures. Would you deride Hammering Hank?

By Tired of election already

January 9, 2008 11:59 AM | Link to this

I don’t care if you are:

black or white or mixed

male or female

gay or straight or bi

republican or democrat or independent

young or old

from the east, west, north or south

Just please be competent and capable.

By James

January 9, 2008 12:00 PM | Link to this

Jay,it’s spelled “role model” a roll is a piece of bread.We as black people need to look at the issues and vote the canidate that serves our needs instead of voting for who our “leaders” tell us to vote for.If we looked at the real issues a lot of us would not be Democrats..

By Jennifer

January 9, 2008 12:02 PM | Link to this

Jay-

Not all black people stick together just because. I understand your point and I actually feel some similar frustrations. But please add the disclaimer that not “all” blacks will jump on the bandwagon b/c Oprah says so.

I am a black woman I am voting for Hillary. I have NEVER been interested in voting Obama. I did my homework on several sites one of which obama.senate.gov and it solidifes that I’m not impressed with him nor what he’s bringing to the table. I think he’d be a great leader one day, not 08.

Also as a black woman, every time an athlete, rapper, celebrity, etc gets in trouble I’m not looking for Jesse or Al on tv, nor do I feel they speak my concerns effectively. I don’t need a spokesperson. I can speak my own thoughts and opinions.

So I would encourage you to understand that not all black people do what the masses are doing and there are some of us black people who find the same actions repulsing.

Oh yeah and Vick should sit in jail as long as possible. I think he’s a sociopath or in the very least shows the tendeancies. But I wonder how many Atlantans black and white will forgive him and be in the stands.

By Jennifer

January 9, 2008 12:04 PM | Link to this

Hillaryfan-

I stated the same feeling last week. If Obama wins I will for the first time in my life switch parties. I feel that strongly on Obama NOT being who we need right now.

By Jennifer

January 9, 2008 12:07 PM | Link to this

To Corey~

Yes. I would and did think all supporters of Vick sending in letters to the judge used p** poor excersice in judgement “Hammering Hank” and whomever else. Of course they wanted slack on his sentence, not b/c they care about Vick…He kept Atlantas pockets lined!!!! He was their meal ticket…they want it back ASAP!!!

By james

January 9, 2008 12:10 PM | Link to this

Uncle Tom, you sound like a complete fool, I wonder what race are you? Your comment is a disgrace. Your mentality fits your name, “UNCLE TOM”, a negative sterotype.

By Cane

January 9, 2008 12:12 PM | Link to this

@ Hillaryfan

Its a suprise that you did not vote republican before since you are so worried about the middle east. Are you a suburban white woman? Did the government scare you again sweetheart? Going after Bin Laden is one thing but the whole middle east is another. We should worry about protecting America instead of invading the world.

By So There

January 9, 2008 12:14 PM | Link to this

No one is asking Mayor Franklin to “wave a wand” to fix this city’s many, many problems… But she has completely evaporated from her role as a leader. She started out as a great populist mayor, but over the last several years, the only time her constituents hear a peep out of her it is an endorsement of one sort or another (whether it’s Vick or Obama). It is not a racist view to say that our Mayor has given up on us.

By ESR

January 9, 2008 12:16 PM | Link to this

Oh, gee…the look of surprise on my face that the worthless mayor of the ghettotribe of urban Atlanta endorses a candidate predicated totally on race. She will have about as much success with this resounding endorsement as she did getting Mike Vick a lighter sentence. Mayor Shirley, do the job you are overpaid and unqualified to do and on Sundays go to the federal prison and visit the relatives you have in prison, where your daughter will soon be. No one in their right mind should believe we’ll elect a person for President that has the name Hussein, get real people. Someone needs to take this city back and make it safer. Be it Clark Howard or Sam Nunn, anyone that can curb the out of control urban crime rate. I live in a very high end Midtown area and I am almost held hostage inside my house afterdark because of young ‘urban’ robbing crews running around robbing people. It was just a few years ago I could walk anywhere I wanted at night in Midtown and be safe. Those days are long gone. Downtown Atlanta votes for anyone so long as they are black and only black. You’ll see pigs fly before you see a non-white chief of police, it just won’t happen. We always have to settle for the black ‘they’ feel is the most qualified where in reality, there’s probably two dozen or more non-blacks better suited for the jobs. Franklin needs to be impeached, she is about a dime better than Cynthia McKinney, okay…maybe a nickle, a penny.

By Dashund

January 9, 2008 12:18 PM | Link to this

With comments like Jennifer and Hillaryfan, my consiracy theory is coming to light that republicans in Iowa and elsewhere are strategically registering as Democrats, voted and are voting for Obama to put him as the frontrunner, and then vote for the Republican frontrunner in the end knowing that millions of white people would do anything to keep a black man from office. Hell would freeze over before white America allows that.

By Huh

January 9, 2008 12:20 PM | Link to this

Figures

By Make me laugh

January 9, 2008 12:20 PM | Link to this

Ghetto thug Mayor for a ghetto thugged out city.

By Smitty

January 9, 2008 12:22 PM | Link to this

WELL WORTH READING ! !

Who is Barack Obama? Very iteresting and something that should be considered in your choice. If you do not ever forward anything else, please forward this to all your contacts…this is very scary to think of what lies ahead of us here in our own United States…better heed this and pray about it and share it. We checked this out on ‘snopes.com ‘. It is factual. Check for yourself. Who is Barack Obama? Probable U. S. presidential candidate, Barack Hussein Obama was born in Honolulu, Hawaii, to Barack Hussein Obama, Sr., a black MUSLIM from Nyangoma-Kogel, Kenya and Ann Dunham, a white ATHEIST from Wichita, Kansas. Obama’s parents met at the Univers ity of Hawaii. When Obama was two years old, his parents divorced. His father retu rned to Kenya. His mother then married Lolo Soetoro, a RADICAL Muslim from Indonesia.? When Obama was 6 years old, the family relocated to Indonesia. Obama attended a MUSLIM school in Jakarta. He also spent two years in a Catholic school. Obama takes great care to conceal the fact that he is a Muslim. He is quick to point out that, ‘He was once a Muslim, but that he also attended Catholic school.’ Obama’s political handlers are attempting to make it appear that that he is not a radical. Obama’s introduction to Islam came via his father, and that this influence was temporary at best. In reality, the senior Obama returned to Kenya soon after the divorce, and never again had any direct influence over his son’s education. Lolo Soetoro, the second husband of Obama’s mother, Ann Dunham, introduced his stepson to Islam. Obama was enrolled in a Wahabi school in Jakarta. Wahabism is the RADIC AL teaching that is followed by the Muslim terrorists who are now waging Jihad against the western world. Since it is politically expedient to be a CHRISTIAN when seeking major public office in the United States, Barack Hussein Obama has joined the United Church of Christ in an attempt to downplay his Muslim background. ALSO, keep in mind that when he was sworn into office he DID NOT use the Holy Bible, but instead the Koran. Barack Hussein Obama will NOT recite the Pledge of Allegiance nor will he show any reverence for our flag. While others place their hands over their hearts, Obama turns his back to the flag and slouches. Let us all remain alert concerning Obama’s expected presidential candidacy. The Muslims have said they plan on destroying the US from the inside out, what better way to start than at the highest level - through the President of the United States, one of their own!!!! Would you want this man leading our

country?…… NOT ME!!!

By GeezGuys

January 9, 2008 12:30 PM | Link to this

Hank Aaron is an idiot for supporting Vick too. Hank recorded a nice warm message for Barry Bonds to celebrate Bond’s breaking of the HR record. Sensible people avoided supporting the obviously ‘roid pumped cheater.

Shirley Franklin’s fame comes from being elected, not hitting home runs. So if she’s going to jump on bandwagons, she should expect more criticism.

By Ernestine

January 9, 2008 12:31 PM | Link to this

I am happy to see Shirley is supporting Obama. It hurts me to see that Black men and particularly the so called Black male leaders don’t support Obama. What is wrong with you guys? Do we have a “hate” thing going on here boys. Because nothing else makes sense.

By HillaryFan

January 9, 2008 12:32 PM | Link to this

Believe what you like but I am a died-in-the-wool Democrat. I strongly believe that Obama is a foreign policy lightweight - something that we DON’T need for 4 more years. Anyone that doesn’t realize how important the future stability of the Middle East is to the future prosperity of the U.S. is myopic and naive.

By Ed

January 9, 2008 12:32 PM | Link to this

GREAT POST SMITTY!!! Obama will never be elected, it’s a pipe dream. All the blacks are jumping on the Obama bandwagon faster than Oprah on a ham based on his skin tone with no idea who the man really is. We do not need quota’s and affrimative action in the White House, both of these measures have ruined schools and businesses as it is.

By Orlando

January 9, 2008 12:33 PM | Link to this

Jennifer, YOU ARE IGNORANT!

By Jane

January 9, 2008 12:35 PM | Link to this

I feel that Obama says what he thinks we want to hear not necessiarly what he means. This is a major cause of concern for me. I am also not impressed that Mayor Franklin is supporting him. I agree she has a right to her opinion but I truly don’t care to know what it is anymore that she would want to read an article about whom I chose to support.

By Shaun

January 9, 2008 12:39 PM | Link to this

Smitty, get a life! you are lying through your missing teeth. Take the m out of your name and replace it with h. That sums you up.

By Shaun

January 9, 2008 12:39 PM | Link to this

Smitty, get a life! you are lying through your missing teeth. Take the m out of your name and replace it with h. That sums you up.

By Harvey

January 9, 2008 12:41 PM | Link to this

It’s funny how things change. Barack Obama for months have been addressing the issue of change in this country and most american want change except for those holy rollers. Now Hillary wants in on the band wagon that Obama created. How can we trust Hillary when Bill the husband get on the band wagon. You will think he is running for President again. We need new changes in Washington, we need someone who are going to stand up to big business. We need someone who are going to bring jobs back to america and now send them overseas for cheat labor. We need someone to make sure our food are safe to eat. We need someone to make sure our toys our children play with are free of lead paint. We need someone to make sure our hard working middle class values are heard. We do not need someone like Hillary to just say change are need just to get a vote and when elected big business move in and take over. I say lets give them one more term to create change and if not maybe we need to look at what the mayor of New York, City are talking about and that is exploring a thrid party free of special interest groups. ‘THINK ABOUT IT’

By HillaryFan

January 9, 2008 12:45 PM | Link to this

@Jennifer:

I agree with your observation about Obama and his leadership abilities “one day” in the future. He really needs to become more seasoned before taking on the presidential role.

By Sal

January 9, 2008 12:45 PM | Link to this

A President with the name Hussein…on my how funny !!! The funny thing is that ‘they’ don’t get the joke. Republicans crossed over to vote for the muslim because we know come election day, it’ll be a slaughter if his name is on the ballot. This is so funny because you all just don’t get it…..gee, you all are making me wet my pants I am laughing so hard.

By jay

January 9, 2008 12:48 PM | Link to this

WAY TO GO SMITTY…sad thing is this will not reach half of the ones still saying he is what we need until the world blows up when he is in office. what will he do if he does win and has to put his hand on the bible when sworn in. wake up America these guys know that we are a stupid nation and the Democrats and all the ones out there screaming about the war are the ones that will destroy our country…bottom line call me what you want but it’s the truth. the democrats already want to give the illegals free benefits why not elect a president that is a muslim

By renap

January 9, 2008 12:51 PM | Link to this

I don’t have much respect for any politician that takes time out of their busy scheudles to be on such a pathedic show like the Frank and Wanda show. Talk about a couple of clowns!

By Rusty

January 9, 2008 12:52 PM | Link to this

Harvey, Bill Cosby is looking for you.

By jody D

January 9, 2008 12:52 PM | Link to this

Oh, don’t get too excited. She’ll switch back and forth to align with the winner. We must remember that Ms Franklin’s real goal is to become Presidential Aviation Commissar, so she can dole out drug money-laundering concessions contracts to all interpolitan metronational airports in the US !! We’ll spread Atlanta corruption nationwide, and make the Bushes look like amateurs.

By Julie

January 9, 2008 12:57 PM | Link to this

She would!!

By faith

January 9, 2008 1:03 PM | Link to this

I support Barack Obama. I think he has solid plans and truly has a vision to make this country better. You can disagree with him on the issues, but to make false accusations is wrong. I read his first book about his upbringing and his coming of age. Barack Obama is a Christian. And for other Christians like myself, it should make us recognize the power of our Father to see that he can take someone who grew up in the midst of radical islam and still reach him. Barack converted to Christianity while in college which is really about the time most of us begin to know who we are and make decisions about who we really want to be as adults. Since then, he’s been a devout Christian.

As for world politics, who better to represent the US in discussions with the Muslim world than some one who lived in it and now sees it’s wrongs from the inside out. He can speak to things that some one who grew up Christian would never understand and would never be able to explain to a radical muslim. I think he’s the best person for the job.

He’s inspired me and he’s inspired the people to do more and further the progress of this great nation.

By jay

January 9, 2008 1:11 PM | Link to this

you really need to change your name from “Fatih” to “Fooled”

By jay

January 9, 2008 1:11 PM | Link to this

you really need to change your name from “Faith” to “Fooled”

By don imus

January 9, 2008 1:20 PM | Link to this

of course she is…..big shocker there

By Ms. Lane

January 9, 2008 1:25 PM | Link to this

With my busy schedule, I’m glad that I actually had a little extra time to read the blog today. I just finished reading a bunch of IGNORANCE. It appears there’s more concern about “blacks sticking together” than the issues Obama is prepared to face in leading this nation. These are issues that pertain to all people of any race or gender - not just for Blacks. Not only do I think there’s alot of INGORANCE, but also FEAR. There is a fear that a more than qualified Black man could actually turn this mess of a nation around. As a highly educated Black woman, who happens to be an executive for a Fortune 500 company, I could vote for Obama because he’s Black or Hillary Clinton because she’s a woman. However, there are very impoartant issues on the table and someone’s race or gender is not going to help fix the nation’s problems. What the candidate stands for with a strategic plan is what counts. I encourage anyone who doesn’t know what the candidates stand for to do your research. Based on my own research of the candidates, I’m in strong favor with our Mayor Shirley Franklin and Oprah Winfrey. I was with BARAK OBAMA months ago and my support for him is even greater now. With all the IGNORANCE and FEAR in this nation, it’s important that Obama gets all the encouragement and votes from his strong supporters. For those in favor of Obama - any race or gender - let’s get out there and stick together! OBAMA is for “Change” and is “with the people”. He has said this all along. Once he started leading the polls with his slogan, now other candidates want to jump on board with “Change”. Think about it. Make it a great day.

By frank simmons

January 9, 2008 1:25 PM | Link to this

I don’t yet live in ATL but I plan to very shortly. Mayor Franklin is definitely one of the bright spots. I now see she has the vision to see a bright spot in Barack Obama whom I feel will one of the best president this nation can have. Both Shirley and Barack are people of extraordinary vision and talent that are true leaders with the kind of genious we need so badly now. Forget their color and sex and explore exactly what they see for us and encourage their efforts.

By VoiceOfReason

January 9, 2008 1:29 PM | Link to this

Gee, this is shocking! Just as shocking as Oprah’s endorsement The only thing that would be more shocking is if New Orleans Mayor Ray Nagin would endorse him to. (The Chocolate Nation will rise again.) Does anyone know who Michael Vick in endorsing?

By Anne Weltner

January 9, 2008 1:32 PM | Link to this

Finally someone has the COURAGE to stand up the the Clinton Machine with all its history of lies, cover-ups, paybacks and punishments. Shirley Franklin did not recieve the “Profile in Courage Award” for nought. Pick at her for the many, many years of bad mayors she has cleaned up after. So, she has caught the Wind of change, but more of TRUTH, of TRUST.

By Don Imus

January 9, 2008 1:32 PM | Link to this

Hey Hillary Fan

the term is Dyed in the wool not DIED in the wool.

No one stopped breathing while in the wool.

It’s a phrase meaning complete and will not change.

But then again, I would expect nothing less from a Hillary fan.

By melissa

January 9, 2008 1:33 PM | Link to this

Wow, I bet her Preacher is proud!

By wakeupcall

January 9, 2008 1:37 PM | Link to this

Good post Smitty! The facts presented are true. For those who doubt the validity of it, go do the research. Do your homework before you vote! Remember the trojan horse?

By obama_noCure

January 9, 2008 1:43 PM | Link to this

Some people, black and white, see Obama as the cure for America’s racial ills—his been biracial and all. Which is not only further from the truth, but also disturbing. That some continue to see skin color all the while claiming skin color should not be a factor. If Obama’s racial makeup was a cure for America’s racial ills the problem would have been solved during and after slavery when America had Mulatto, Octaroon, Quadroons and so on at the end of the 19th century when more than 85% of the black population was mixed with European, American Indian bloodlines or a mixture of both. There would have never been any Jim Crow, Segregation or Lynchings to follow. Instead of trying to always introduce another element to the problem, America should grow some balls and deal with the problem. Using Obama’s racial makeup as a prop to cure America’s racial ills is one of the saddest jokes to be suggested to the American people and even sadder for those who fall prey into believing it.

By Bryant

January 9, 2008 1:43 PM | Link to this

I’m all for chnage but talking and doing are 2 different things. Presidents need more than the ability to give good lip service to what they will do. Obama is on the right road but still way “too Green” to make a differecnce in Washington. He does not have the ability to cross party lines and get the job done. Hillary Clinton does.

It is no surprise that the people on this forum who are for Obama automatically bring up the race issue. I find Obama appealing for a future president but at this time when the country needs to be pulled in a different direction I see Hillary as the agent of change with the past experience to make it happen. A junior senator with no major accomplishment other than that under his belt is not an agent for change but for dissaster. Gridlock will only mutliply with Obama.

By ROCKMAN1

January 9, 2008 1:43 PM | Link to this

Smitty did you and Jay do any research on that article on Obama.You couldnt have. You guys couldn’t be more inaccurate. Stick to the truth gentleman.

By get A LIFE

January 9, 2008 1:45 PM | Link to this

OK The mayor has announced her nomination for president. Obama. She has been an excellent mayor and she has made many improvements to this city. The issues you morons are complaining about has nothing to do with the mayor you can”t expect the mayor to fix 30 years of problem in 6 years she has only been mayor since 2001. Oh Elgato you are unintelligent and ignorant if you don’t have anything good to say don’t say anything at all. And for the idiot who said she raised a drug dealer for a daughter, you must not have any kids because you can have the best upbringing but when you are an adult you make your own decisions. I must conclude that your parents are idiots because they raised you. HUH? and as for SO there the mayor has not given up on the city proof the beltline.

By shut up

January 9, 2008 1:48 PM | Link to this

voiceof reason shut the f up.

By Don Imus

January 9, 2008 1:50 PM | Link to this

Well ROCKMAN1

Let’s hear “the truth”

Since Smitty and Jay got it so inaccurate, why don’t you set the record straight.

By GeezGuys

January 9, 2008 1:50 PM | Link to this

For the gullible out there, Smitty’s post is one of those stupid forwarded e-mails. It’s not true. Check out snopes.com

By Steven

January 9, 2008 1:55 PM | Link to this

Shirley Who?!

By KEVIN

January 9, 2008 1:55 PM |