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Home > Political Insider > Archives > 2008 > October > 01 > Entry

Has the Obama surge begun? Nearly 40 percent of early votes cast by African-Americans

Wednesday, October 1, 2008, 08:31 AM

The Atlanta Journal-Constitution

As of Monday, 135,412 ballots had been cast in Georgia for the Nov. 4 general election, whether by absentee or early in-person voting.

Nearly 40 percent of those voters — 53,160 — have been African-American, according to the office of Secretary of State Karen Handel.

It is this kind of intensity, driven by the presidential campaign of Barack Obama, that has worried Georgia Republicans and stirred the hopes of Democrats in the state.

As of Aug. 31, African-Americans, the most reliable demographic in the Democratic base, made up 29 percent of those registered to vote. However, their participation rate in elections traditionally is several points lower.

After a full week of early voting statewide, the highest performing counties are: DeKalb, with 14,560 votes cast; Fulton, 10,599; Gwinnett, 7,952; Cobb, 7,021; Chatham, 4,771. All have significant minority populations.

Matt Carrothers, spokesman for Handel, said in addition to the 135,412 ballots already cast, another 105,526 have been mailed out but not returned.

Handel wants at least 1 million Georgia voters to cast early ballots, and it’s easy to see why. If, as expected, 85 percent of the state’s 5.5 million voters head to the polls on Nov. 4, Georgia’s 3,000 polling stations could be overwhelmed.

Granted, the math says that each station would only have to handle a little more than 1,500 over a 12-hour period, but people aren’t spread out like that.

UPDATE: Some of you are asking how the secretary of state’s office knows all this.

Because Georgia is a state covered by the Voting Rights Act, with a history of racial discrimination, officials are required to take into account whether their actions affect the ballot rights of minorities.

To do that, the race and sex of all voters is requested upon registration, but giving it is not mandatory, according to Handel’s web site. This is the only demographic information obtained and, since voters aren’t required to register by party, the only clue that analysts have about who is voting.

Here’s the complete breakdown of advance voters offered by Handel’s office:

— Black female: 32,865;

— Black male: 20,295;

— White female: 40,860;

— White male: 36,958;

— Female Asian-Pacific island: 239;

— Male Asian-Pacific island: 188;

— Female Hispanic-Latino: 304;

— Male Hispanic-Latino: 253;

— Female Native American: 12;

— and Male Native American: 10.


• Full election coverage: News, photos and more

Permalink | Comments (200) | Post your comment |

Comments

By Mike

October 1, 2008 8:51 AM | Link to this

The Obama surge began at the AJC two years ago. That’s why we get partisan cheerleading from Galloway every day.

By Keeping It Real

October 1, 2008 8:55 AM | Link to this

If I voted based only on race/gender, had little control over my emotions (and voted accordingly), was easily swayed by propaganda manipulating my sense of “fairness” and was a slacker who lived off the backs of over tax payers, I would probably have plenty of free time to go cast an early ballot (or 12 of them) right now, too.

By Carol

October 1, 2008 9:00 AM | Link to this

How does one know the race of those voting? Is it just a geographic presumption? Are voting records kept by race?

By J-Lin

October 1, 2008 9:02 AM | Link to this

The intelligent folks of Georgia are going to try out hardest to turn the state blue. I’m tired of the silly Republican mind games and the fact so many people are resourceful enough for themselves to find out the truth. I no longer want the agenda of this country or this state to be Hannity’s talking points.

OBAMA 08

By James

October 1, 2008 9:06 AM | Link to this

It’s scary that republican secretary of state is keeping up with voting by race. Since they can do this will they start challenging votes by race. Keep an eye on Handel she’s starting to look like Katherine Harris ala 2000.

By J-Lin

October 1, 2008 9:07 AM | Link to this

The intelligent folks of Georgia are going to try out hardest to turn the state blue. I’m tired of the silly Republican mind games and the fact so many people are resourceful enough for themselves to find out the truth. I no longer want the agenda of this country or this state to be Hannity’s talking points.

OBAMA 08

By JP

October 1, 2008 9:08 AM | Link to this

I’m with Carol. Please explain how the Sec. of State knows this…

By Confused

October 1, 2008 9:09 AM | Link to this

so, let’s get this straight. if you’re white, and you don’t vote for the black candidate, that’s racism. but, if you’re black and you don’t vote for the white candidate, that’s okay? i guess i missed something in school.

By Ted Striker

October 1, 2008 9:10 AM | Link to this

Dear “Keeping It Real”

You said “blah blah blah…I would probably have plenty of free time to…blah blah blah.”

Dude.

You post frequently than the columnists of the AJC. So you saying you’d do something “if you had plenty of free time” is like saying “if water was wet, I’d….”

I won’t be checking back to see if you reply (sure you will) because I don’t have as much “free time” as you.

By J-Lin

October 1, 2008 9:11 AM | Link to this

The intelligent folks of Georgia are going to try out hardest to turn the state blue. I’m tired of the silly Republican mind games and the fact so many people are resourceful enough for themselves to find out the truth. I no longer want the agenda of this country or this state to be Hannity’s talking points.

OBAMA 08

By FSG

October 1, 2008 9:12 AM | Link to this

The only early voting location in DeKalb is down on Memorial Drive - what’s the ethnic background in easy driving distance of there (remembering that nobody has any gas to spare?)

By chad

October 1, 2008 9:12 AM | Link to this

yes the surge has begun. they will vote 3-4, maybe 5 times.

By Goldie

October 1, 2008 9:13 AM | Link to this

So, is this info from some kinda exit poll taken last week during early voting? How does the Sec. of State’s office know the ethnicity of these early voters?

By 4ON08

October 1, 2008 9:13 AM | Link to this

when you register to vote, you indicate your race/ethnic orgin on the form.

By J-Lin

October 1, 2008 9:14 AM | Link to this

The intelligent folks of Georgia are going to try out hardest to turn the state blue. I’m tired of the silly Republican mind games and the fact so many people are resourceful enough for themselves to find out the truth. I no longer want the agenda of this country or this state to be Hannity’s talking points.

OBAMA 08

By Goldie

October 1, 2008 9:17 AM | Link to this

Oh, and the answer to your question, “Has the Obama surge begun?” is “YES” — and I’m not an African-American voter. There are plenty of non-white GA voters who support Obama instead of that old white dude on the other ticket.

By Mr. 2008

October 1, 2008 9:17 AM | Link to this

This article along with some of your comments on here are starting to turn my stomach… There should NOT be a way to tell the color of my skin, nor should there be a record kept of my race just by me casting my ballot!

By Pro Hater

October 1, 2008 9:17 AM | Link to this

Here we go. The racial commenting, prejudices and epithets are only going to get worse now that the real possibly of a non-white person as Commander in Chief is being realized more and more. For example, Keeping it Real, just sounds like you are trying to keep it ignorant. Get a life.

By CDog

October 1, 2008 9:18 AM | Link to this

Why is the high percent of black turnout presumed to be an “Obama surge?” Are black people only voting for a black candidate? If black people were thinking for themselves and not engaging in identity politics, there should be a fairly even split. I am sure not all white people are voting for McCain. If they were, that would be called racism.

By dave

October 1, 2008 9:19 AM | Link to this

Duhh… isn’t that why the democrats have open voting in national elections? But then again, I must be wrong, as I’m not one of the “intelligent” Georgians.

By gator

October 1, 2008 9:20 AM | Link to this

Carol,

I agree with your concern about this process, numbers are already being computed, before the general election, and why are the results being disclosed? Maybe this is the new gallup poll? THIS IS SCARY!!

By Daedalus

October 1, 2008 9:21 AM | Link to this

Don’t worry — since there is no requirement for a paper trail for Georgia voting machines, and since Georgia uses machines from the right-wing Diebold Company (although they’ve changed their name) and since Karen Handel is an extremely partisan republican secretary of state — the State GOP minority voter suppression program will be very successful again this year.

So Don’t Worry — a black man will not carry Georgia in a national presidential election in our lifetime — or our children’s lifetime.

By Gerald

October 1, 2008 9:22 AM | Link to this

Change is overdue! If you care about your future, and the future of your children, and the future of this country - the country that brought the Internet to the world - cast your vote for Change!

I’m a concerned citizen, and I approve this message!

By trail06

October 1, 2008 9:23 AM | Link to this

To Confused. There is plenty of blacks that are voting for McCain. If you don’t know that for the past couple of decades, blacks have voted democratic. It has nothing to do with race. You can’t argue the fact that blacks are racist because they are not voting for a white guy. Thats all we have voted for since we were able, now a black guy is in the running for president and you hear a white person say I can’t vote for barack because he is black, what does that sound like to you. Now if you can’t answer that question truthfully, then you are just ignorant. Maybe its not all racism, it could be prejudice, which many blacks are prejuice in this race including me. That I’m not afraid to state.

By sunny

October 1, 2008 9:24 AM | Link to this

Confused,

Hope this doesn’t further confuse you, but when white Americans have voted for white candidates for decades, is that racism? When white people vote for John McCain and Hillary Clinton instead of Barack Obama, is that racism? What is so scary about black people being of the same mind and supporting a candidate that just so happens to look like them? Do you think blacks would be voting overwhelmingly for, let’s say hypothetically speaking, Alan Keyes, if he were running on the Republic ticket? No. Black people do not vote simply based on color, we, like other Americans, vote based on the issues. Sen. Obama’s platform has resonated with black and white people throughout this country. To imply that a demographic who has historically voted overwhelmingly for WHITE democratic candidates is suddenly racist when that support is extended to the nominee of the same party, who just happens to be “black” (whatever that means)is absurd and illogical.

By Pro Hater

October 1, 2008 9:24 AM | Link to this

Here we go. The racial commenting, prejudices and epithets are only going to get worse now that the real possibly of a non-white person as Commander in Chief is being realized more and more. For example, Keeping it Real, just sounds like you are trying to keep it ignorant. Get a life. By the way, you brought up voting solely on race/gender, but is that much different voting based solely on policital affiliation? Just curious.

By chipLJ

October 1, 2008 9:25 AM | Link to this

The post by “keeping it real” expresses the attitude that has warped our national pride, ruined our country’s standing in the world community and wrecked our economy. …All things Republican.

By HEHEHEHE

October 1, 2008 9:26 AM | Link to this

I voted early and voted for NEITHER Nobama or McSame.

By MaxieGrrrl

October 1, 2008 9:27 AM | Link to this

Voters self idenitfy by race when they register. That’s how Handel knows the demographic breakdown of the votes already cast.

By cruz

October 1, 2008 9:27 AM | Link to this

GO VOTE NOW, I MEAn now not liong lines so go! what are you doing now? readbng my comment dammit go vote now for who you say the guy with 1 house that is who. VOTE NOW VOTE RIGHT NOW 2MORROW B4 THE 31 OF OCTOBER SI GO I’M GONG AFTER WORK SON!

By Duh?

October 1, 2008 9:28 AM | Link to this

How do we know this “surge” is not in support of Cynthia McKinney? What’s a Black person to do?!?!?!?

By Craig

October 1, 2008 9:28 AM | Link to this

Ask the people of Clayton County what voting by race accomplishes.

Also, if Obama wins in November and the economy gets worse while he is in office…who will the democrats/media blame at that time?

I am tired of both parties blaming the other for the problems but not doing anything productive to change things. (watch the Bill O’Reilly/Kerry Interview for a good example of this). Both sides (republican and democrats) are to blame for a lot of the issues that we currently face.

Why not try a bi-partisan approach. Ronald Reagan was the best bi-partisan preseident we have had in recent memory. Look how unified the country was behind him during his re-election (only MN and DC voted against him in the electorial vote). If the US is to be a power in the world stage, it needs to be more unified…and voting for someone by race does not help this. If Obama wins (which he will not in Georgia…simple reasoning will conclude this), hopefully he will be a productive president. If not, the rest of the country could end up like Clayton County, GA.

By cruz

October 1, 2008 9:29 AM | Link to this

GO VOTE NOW, I MEAn now not long lines so go! what are you doing now? readbng my comment dammit go vote now for who you say the guy with 1 house that is who. VOTE NOW VOTE RIGHT NOW 2MORROW B4 THE 31 OF OCTOBER SI GO I’M GONG AFTER WORK SON!

By Tomhere

October 1, 2008 9:29 AM | Link to this

40% are black? so - 60% are white/other? So maybe the more appropriate headline would be “Has The McCain Surge Started”…? BUT - I guess OBAMA is a better way to instill fear and motivate the white KOOK vote? (By “KOOK” I mean anyone who’s willing to let their “spiritual advisor” tell them who to vote for…!)

By early voter

October 1, 2008 9:29 AM | Link to this

Leave it to the AJC, which is in the tank for any Democrat, much less Obama, to manufacture something out of nothing.

Most large counties in GA have a diverse population, and the people who live there like to vote early to avoid the crowds. DUH!

By The Truth Comes Out

October 1, 2008 9:29 AM | Link to this

Please people do some research on NObama! here is another fine example of him talking out both sides of his face.

Here’s a quick look at 3 former Fannie Mae executives who have brought down Wall Street. Franklin Raines was a Chairman and Chief Executive Officer at Fannie Mae. Raines was forced to retire from his position with Fannie Mae when auditors discovered severe irregulaties in Fannie Mae’s accounting activities. At the time of his departure The Wall Street Journal noted, “Raines, who long defended the company’s accounting, issued a statement late Tuesday conceding that ‘mistakes were made’!!! News reports indicate the company’s books ran afoul of generally accepted accounting principles for four years.” Fannie Mae had to reduce its surplus by $9 billion. Raines left with a golden parachute valued at $240 million. The Government filed suit against Raines when the depth of the accounting scandal became clear. http://housingdoom.com/2006/12/18/fannie-charges/. The Government noted, “The 101 charges [Did you catch that? 101 charges?] reveal how individuals improperly manipulated earnings to maximize their bonuses, while knowingly neglecting accounting systems and misapplying accounting principles, misleading the regulator and the public……they submitted six years of misleading and inaccurate accounting statements and capital reports.” These charges were made in 2006. The Court ordered Raines to return $50 million he received in bonuses based on the misstated Fannie Mae profits. Tim Howard was the Chief Financial Officer of Fannie Mae. Howard “was a strong internal proponent of using accounting strategies.” In everyday English - he was cooking the books. The Government investigation determined that Chief Financial Officer, Tim Howard, lied to Congress in October 2004 when he denied manipulating the mortgage-finance giant’s income statement to achieve management pay bonuses. Investigations by federal regulators and the company’s board of directors concluded that management did manipulate 1998 earnings to trigger bonuses. Raines and Howard resigned under pressure in late 2004. Howard’s Golden Parachute was estimated at $20 million. Jim Johnson was a former executive at Lehman Brothers who was later forced from his position as Fannie Mae CEO. Look at the Office of Federal Housing Enterprise Oversight’s May 2006 report on mismanagement and corruption inside Fannie Mae. Investigators found that Fannie Mae had hidden a substantial amount of Johnson’s 1998 compensation from the public, reporting that it was between $6 million and $7 million when in fact it was $21 million. Johnson is currently under investigation for taking illegal loans from Countrywide while serving as CEO of Fannie Mae.
Johnson’s Golden Parachute was estimated at $28 million. AND WHERE ARE THEY NOW? FRANKLIN RAINES … works for the Obama Campaign as Chief Economic Advisor TIM HOWARD … is a Chief Economic Advisor to Obama JIM JOHNSON … was hired as a Senior Obama Finance Advisor and was selected to run Obama’s Vice Presidential Search Committee.

I suppose this means nothing to most of the NObama supporters however and they will still vote for him showing how the blind leads the blind.

By cruz

October 1, 2008 9:30 AM | Link to this

GO VOTE NOW, I MEAn now! not long lines so go! what are you doing now? readIng my comment dammit go vote now for who you say? the guy with 1 house that is who. VOTE NOW VOTE RIGHT NOW 2MORROW B4 THE 31 OF OCTOBER SI GO I’M GOING AFTER WORK SON!

By Reaity Check

October 1, 2008 9:30 AM | Link to this

Question of the day???

Why is it that when a large quantity of votes are cast towards issues/candidates that are labled as black or minority white folks claim voter fraud? This is the very reason why most black folk can’t get past racism, The knuckleheads won’t let us. Accept the fact that we are as knowledgable and aware of the world and the issues that affect us all as you are. Wake up and grow up!!

By Van

October 1, 2008 9:30 AM | Link to this

What about the other 60%? Not exactly sure of what that title means? What constitutes a “surge” and why do you think it’s in Obama’s favor? I guess it’s just an assumption on your part. However, if that is what it takes to get him into office “Let the SURGE BEGIN!”

By Wow

October 1, 2008 9:31 AM | Link to this

It doesn’t matter. We as blacks will always be frowned upon, regardless of what we do. If we vote for Barack Obama, it is only because he is black. Yet, as a previos poster stated, there is no issue with White People voting for John McCain. There is no outcry of “they are only voting for him because he is white”. Wouldn’t one think that was especially be the case now, given that a Black Man is voting for office? Pathetic. Fair and Balanced huh? Right.

By jay black

October 1, 2008 9:31 AM | Link to this

Confused

Blacks have been voting for a white candidate since they got voting rights back in the 60’s.

By Wow

October 1, 2008 9:31 AM | Link to this

It doesn’t matter. We as blacks will always be frowned upon, regardless of what we do. If we vote for Barack Obama, it is only because he is black. Yet, as a previos poster stated, there is no issue with White People voting for John McCain. There is no outcry of “they are only voting for him because he is white”. Wouldn’t one think that woould especially be the case now, given that a Black Man is voting for office? Pathetic. Fair and Balanced huh? Right.

By PJ

October 1, 2008 9:32 AM | Link to this

How do you know the race of those who have voted? I don’t recall anything that asked me my race or ethnic background when I registered to vote. Why is the Secretary of State even attempting to keep racial records of voters? Is it legal for her to do so? And why does she feel the need to publicize this information? I think that the AJC does the voters and readers a disservice by publicizing this divisive, fairly useless information. The race of voters does not determine which candidate they support!

By John S.

October 1, 2008 9:32 AM | Link to this

Yes - Change!!! Vote for change we can believe in - Vote McCain 2008. If you like socialism, a government controlled economy where capitalism and choice will be absent, vote for the freshman senator from Illinois, Barak Obama - better yet…save our country and don’t vote at all!!

By Middle-Aged White Lady

October 1, 2008 9:33 AM | Link to this

Please recall from the 2004 elections - 90% of all African-Americans voted for Kerry. It is not a “race” thing. This year, 92% of all African-American polled plan to vote for Obama. And what does the Republican Party have to offer the African-American population anyway? BTW, as quoted on PBS during the Republcian convention, their party is 92% white, 5% hispanic, 3% other. It has far more to do with what the respective parties stand for-far, far beyond race. Barack the Vote ‘08!

By John S.

October 1, 2008 9:36 AM | Link to this

Please vote for change - Change we can Believe in - Vote McCain/Palin 2008. If you want a confirmed socialist and a believer in government control of every aspect of your life - Vote for the freshman senator from Illinois - Barak Obama. Wait!!! don’t vote at all….America cannot AFFORD Barak Obama right now.

By Bob

October 1, 2008 9:37 AM | Link to this

Who cares about race right now, our Country is in dire straits-VOTE OBAMA!

By Pro Hater

October 1, 2008 9:38 AM | Link to this

By the way, don’t you guys just love the names for the candidates that theses obviously “intelligent” people come up with, like NObama and McSame. If you want your comments to be taken seriously and have any ounce of creditibility, you need to speak like a grown person.

By Stu

October 1, 2008 9:44 AM | Link to this

This is the worst kind of journalism - conjecture based on statistics that don’t support the conclusion. All we know is that 40% of early voters were AA. This does not tell us anything about the overall results. To conclude that a marginal increase in participation percentage in early voting is going to translate into larger overall numbers is not supported by any of the data. Perhaps early voting is more appealing to certian groups, of which more of the members are AA. Perhaps it just happened that more AA turned out early. Perhaps it is something else entirely. This is an excellent example of why people hate statistics.

By MV7

October 1, 2008 9:45 AM | Link to this

And how many of these are “newly minted” voters submitted by ACORN or Rainblow Push or other race baiting community organizers. You ajc hacks shouldnt vail your giddy support for Obama in blogs, just make it the headline for your communist newpaper every day till election. All you idiots that think that Obama is going to save this country are in for some tough days ahead. When socialism and race baiting takes over our government, your days are numbered. I find it hard to believe that Obama takes Georgia, but hey, dead people are still voting these days.

By zeke

October 1, 2008 9:47 AM | Link to this

And if it is up to the democrats, activist groups and black leaders, THEY WILL VOTE AGAIN AND AGAIN! THAT IS WHY THEY DO NOT WANT PICTURE ID PROOF! CRIMINALS THAT THEY ARE AGAINST AMERICA!

By Xena

October 1, 2008 9:49 AM | Link to this

I don’t believe ANY blacks are voting for McCain. Even the conservative blacks I know are voting for Obama. They cannot give me one good reason, but I KNOW why they are voting for him. Why won’t they admit that seeing a black president in their lifetime is far more important to them than what he may do TO this country. (notice I didn’t say FOR this country).

I wish an Obama supporter here could give me one GOOD reason he or she is voting for Obama and what he or she EXPECTS Obama to do as POTUS that will fix the problems in this country.

BTW, I don’t think McCain can fix it either. I am voting for him because I regard him as the lesser of two evils. I don’t know how in the world the Republicans got stuck with him! I truly believe there were more shenanigans in FL which put him on our ticket. We should have Romney!

By BlackDemocrat

October 1, 2008 9:50 AM | Link to this

You guys are exactly right. Blacks are voting for Obama b/c he’s a Democrat and qualified. We’ve voted for white men for as long as we could vote, b/c they were Democrat and qualified. So get over it, The old guy on the GOP ticket will not cut it for us for those reasons. McCain/Palin is the joke of history.

CHANGE 08 OBAMA 08

By Earl

October 1, 2008 9:51 AM | Link to this

This election is going to top any we have seen in the history of American politics as far as voter fraud is concerned. The group ACORN along with most black churches will not only allow, they will socially promote voter fraud. Blacks will cry foul because of vote ID’s; they can’t handle being treated equal, they never want equality. They want special treatment. All black churches preaching politics from the pulpits and busing people to the polls on election day should have their tax exempt status revoked. This will be a historical year for black voter fraud.

By Clowny S

October 1, 2008 9:52 AM | Link to this

John S— you sound just like Palin—confused and You don’t know what the hell you are talking about. How much change are you going to get with McCain/Palin? Open your eyes and close your ears. Do your research and stop listening to lies.

By Common Sense

October 1, 2008 9:52 AM | Link to this

To the truth comes out:

First Franklin Raines is not a chief economis adviser to the Obama campaign.

Second Mr. Johnson was part of the VP selection team. Mr. Johnson did not run the VP selection committee.

Why is it when you do not agree with the candidate you try just start lying about the candidate.

Can someone just tell the truth!

Someone mention if Mr. Obama wins the Nation can become like clayton county.

Can you tell me what condition the United States is already in?

Bush and Replublican leadership had control now they need a small majority in the senate to help with the bail-out package!

By zeke

October 1, 2008 9:52 AM | Link to this

Stupid rules like this from the anti American voting rights act is why we will never get past race in this country! The census has no business seeking the race of citizens, only the number of citizens, period! If you want race not to be a factor, QUIT USING RACE TO IDENTIFY PEOPLE IN EVERY IMAGINABLE SITUATION EXCEPT WHEN LOOKING FOR CRIMINALS, WHERE THE FACT THAT A PERP MAY BE WHITE, BLACK, RED, YELLOW, BLUE, GREEN MIGHT HAVE IMPORTANT INFORMATION FOR LAW OFFICERS AND THE GENERAL PUBLIC!!!

By Manny

October 1, 2008 9:55 AM | Link to this

Who said that African-Americans are voting for Barack Obama based only on skin color? Please.

The reason why African-Americans are voting largely en masse is because many African-Americans are tired of having a Republican in the White House. Or that they feel that John McCain wouldn’t be the best choice, especially since these last few weeks have given a glimpse as to how he would lead.

Or maybe it’s because the economy has been hitting the African-American community harder and longer. Or that African-Americans have seen how the Republicans have blamed African-Americans for the worsening economy- even though the communities hardest hit with foreclosures are outside of the African-American community.

Or maybe African-Americans have tired of the war in Iraq, which is financed by the Chinese, and seeing how the economy of the future is being mortgaged because of silly policies both domestically and abroad.

Or maybe African-Americans travel abroad, and is tired of having to defend these silly policies to people who simply can’t understand why we still have George Bush as our President. Or that African-Americans are sick of seeing jobs moved overseas. Or that African-Americans are hurt that many people are looking for other countries to fill in the leadership vacuum that has been vacated by this administration.

Or, shoot- “Bomb, bomb, Iran!” scared them. Or the Sarah Palin pick, that even many conservative Republicans are openly questioning. Or the fact that there seems to be some revolt or schism within the Republican party.

Whew! My fingers hurt with the many reasons why African-Americans are not voting for John McCain. As a matter of fact, many African-Americans see the only appeal the John McCain would have to anyone in America is that he was a war hero and former POW, that he has been in the Senate for a long time, and that he’s white. I can’t possibly think of anything else. Oh, and the surge. You can’t forget the surge.

By American

October 1, 2008 9:58 AM | Link to this

Well it appears the percent of White voters is 60%………

Looks like McCain-Palin is surging ahead :)

The AJC is A RACIEST organization

By Pro Hater

October 1, 2008 10:00 AM | Link to this

Sorry, I spelled credibility incorrectly in an earlier post, probably voiding out the point I was trying to make.

By Graham

October 1, 2008 10:01 AM | Link to this

RE: Keeping It Real Your comments astound me. This is 2008 for God’s sake! Your perceptions are from the early 60’s. Why is it that when AA choose to vote for someone of color, you decide that this decision is based on the color of their skin. However, you make your choice based on what? Obama is clearly an articulate intelligent man who deserves the respect given him by articulate intelligent people. There are just so many things about McCain that are unknown and kept from public knowledge ie., medical records, military records etc. My decision is based on research, intellect and just plain common sense.

By Chris

October 1, 2008 10:01 AM | Link to this

JIM…come on now, you are not stupid. know you are aware of the surge of White People moving BACK into the city, areas like kirkwood, East Atlanta, Westend, Peopletown, and yes DOWNTOWN, actually most all over the inner city. Look at Little Five Points and over by Jimmy Carter Freedom Parkway. Karen Handel and her staff are not stupid either, what they are trying to do is set up the scare factor in the few innorant Georgia voters. I have had to vote for a “Pink” Man all my voting years with out giving a choice, whether they were qualified or not, now we all have a choice (and I will say) of COLOR, SUBSTANCES, AGE, ENDURANCE, to choose from. But, since karen handel’s office want to make this a race issue, when I and so many more voters know darn well she wasn’t qualified for the job she’s in, OKAY!

By Tim

October 1, 2008 10:02 AM | Link to this

What kind of change will I see from a presidential hopeful that needs a known terrorist to “approve” him as (in his own words) as a right of passage? Obama would be the worst thing that ever happened to this country. The thing that really irritates the Libs is that a Hockey Mom VP pick has more experience and intestinal fortitiude than their Presidential hopeful.

By mscutie78

October 1, 2008 10:02 AM | Link to this

There have been some very valid points brought up in regards to voting based on color. For decades people didn’t vote based on color they voted based on issues - it’s ignorant to now say that people are only voting because Barack is black. And since we’re on the topic of Barack’s ethnicity - he is BIRACIAL - he is black and white and therefore represents most of us!! As an independent voter who is not African-American - I am an Obama supporter - based on the issues not the color of his skin.

By The Truth Comes Out

October 1, 2008 10:06 AM | Link to this

I realize Common Sense that some of you cant accept the truth. Like I stated the blind leading the blind. McCain*Palin 08! NObama/Biden NO 8!

By Middle-Aged White Lady

October 1, 2008 10:07 AM | Link to this

Please recall from the 2004 elections - 90% of all African-Americans voted for Kerry. It is not a “race” thing. This year, 92% of all African-American polled plan to vote for Obama. And what does the Republican Party have to offer the African-American population anyway? BTW, as quoted on PBS during the Republcian convention, their party is 92% white, 5% hispanic, 3% other. It has far more to do with what the respective parties stand for-far, far beyond race. Barack the Vote ‘08!

By Aaron Burr V. Mexico

October 1, 2008 10:09 AM | Link to this

Wow. That well thought out and reasoned demonstration of Fannie Mae and Freddie Mack executives (who were NOT bribing McCain in any way AT ALL) has convinced me to change my vote.

After all, its not like there were other people (like the Secretary of the Treasury, Fed Reserve Chairman, Fed Reserve Members, SEC Chairman, CEO’s of investment banks etc) that were responsible.

Clearly what we need is LESS regulation and LOWER taxes!

Shame I already voted for Obama.

By Cairo

October 1, 2008 10:10 AM | Link to this

I can see Russia from Alaska. I am Foreign Policy Expert. I can see smog in Atlanta from DeKalb County. I am an EPA expert. I read ALL the news magazines so I am smarter than a Fifth Grader. I read the AJC that makes me a 72 year computer illiterate candidate for President and a VP candidate that if “BS was currency I could bailout Wallstreet and the housing crisis all by myself.”

By Old School Al

October 1, 2008 10:17 AM | Link to this

At this point, it doesn’t matter who the candidates are — WHY IN THE WORLD WOULD THEY TELL THE ETHNICITY OF VOTERS, UNLESS THEY WERE TRYING TO INVOKE SOME TYPE OF PANIC AND/OR APATHY! This does smell like an election irregularity. If the democratic election process allows for each individual to cast a secret ballot, then we should not be revealing who is voting. This is not the evening of Nov. 4, we still have more than a month to go!!

By Steve

October 1, 2008 10:17 AM | Link to this

I love when black people say they are voting for Obama because of his “change”, not because he is black. BS! No one in their right mind would vote for more taxes…NO ONE! Wait! Blacks will apparently. Shameful! There is no surge for Obama in any state because all these polls are done by Democrats and the people they ask are all left wing liberals that want this country to go under. All my friends are Republicans and none of us have been asked who we want as President. I can’t wait to see how many dead people vote for Obama out of Georgia and Illinois. Obama is one the most corrupt politicians ever and this election will be corrupt, if he has anything to do with it. He’s a socialist that puts himself before the nation. God help us, if he is elected. I know for one thing, he will not be my president. McCain is the only choice! If Obama was white the blacks wouldn’t be voting for him, but if McCain was black I would be voting for him. Blacks are the true racist in this country and the downfall leads to them and Obama.

By Richard7

October 1, 2008 10:17 AM | Link to this

I just hope the country can live through a democratic predident and democratically controlled senate and house. When your taxes are going up in a couple of years I’m going to tell I told you so and blame it on all on Barack,yuo voted for him. Everyone wants to blame Bush for all the countries problems. Even Bill clinton wanted tighter controls on Fanny Mae and Freddie Mac before he left office ,but as usual the democrtas said no. Bush also wanted tight controls but our favorite democrtic congressman Barney Frank led the charge on that one. McCain is not the greatest choice but I question Barack Obamas credientials. He wont answer questions were he received his education funds, has hung out with a terrorist friend and continues to due so. There is no great choice just like the last election.

By Sheila

October 1, 2008 10:20 AM | Link to this

People like confused and her other Republikkkan buddies amaze me with the way they spin stories. We’ve been voting for white candidates for decades. Did it ever occur to you that we’ve seen the last 8 years of Bush has been like..HORRIBLE…and now we see an old coot spewing the same crap and we don’t want that. Or the stunt he pulled getting a woman as VP but making it a woman is not only a hypocrite but just as DUMB as Bush. But let me ask you somethign all the people who WILL NOT vote for Obama just because he is black…Are they racist too???? The polls after the election showed most people thought Obama had better plans, won the debate but then when asked who should win the election they picked McCain…explain that stupidity

By Richard7

October 1, 2008 10:20 AM | Link to this

I just hope the country can live through a democratic predident and democratically controlled senate and house. When your taxes are going up in a couple of years I’m going to tell I told you so and blame it on all on Barack,you voted for him. Everyone wants to blame Bush for all the countries problems. Even Bill Clinton wanted tighter controls on Fanny Mae and Freddie Mac before he left office ,but as usual the democrtas said no. Bush also wanted tighter controls but our favorite democratic congressman Barney Frank led the charge on that one. McCain is not the greatest choice but I question Barack Obamas credientials. He wont answer questions were he received his education funds, has hung out with a terrorist friend and continues to due so. There is no great choice just like the last election.

By Renee

October 1, 2008 10:21 AM | Link to this

I am one of the white females who voted early and I voted for Obama/Biden. I think most voters don’t vote based on color, they vote based on who they believe will lead the country most effectively.

The one who can see Russia from Alaska and the man that constantly flip-flops do nothing to instill any confidence in me in their ability to lead this country.

By GeezGuys

October 1, 2008 10:23 AM | Link to this

These idiots are obviously just voting for President. Local races are much less publicized, waiting until closer to election day might allow them to gather some information—-but why cast an informed vote? Oh well. We saw what racist voting did for the majority-black Clayton County, let them rot in their own crappy districts.

By Yes we can and will!

October 1, 2008 10:25 AM | Link to this

Please tell me why is it NOT okay for African Americans to vote for a black man based oh his RACE???!!!! This is what the white people have been doing all of their lives!!!!

To Manny: Whay to go with your blog! Too bad your fingers got tired.

Let me add my comments to your blog!

Or maybe African-Americans can vote for a black simply because he is BLACK!

Or maybe African-Americans are sick and tired of being sick of tired of our votes being taken for granted!!

Or maybe African-Americans are tired of seeing the Evangelical Christians (new age KKK party) determining the outcome of an election!

Or maybe African-Americans are SICK of the Republicans acting as if we are stupid as hell and wouldn’t vote for a person based on the color of their skin!!

By Tim

October 1, 2008 10:27 AM | Link to this

I’ll gurantee you that David Dukes could run for president and 90% of black people would vote for him if he ran as a Democrat. Want proof? Go back to George Wallace. The man stood on the steps of the U. of Alabama and held off the U.S. Military to keep black folk from going to school there. The next election, every black voter in Alabama voted for him. Why? Because they are sheep. They do what they are told to do with no understanding of why. That is how Obama can say the word “change” and everyone starts slobbering. Nevermind that he hasn’t presented any change that he has not backed out of already. However, it is inevitable. Blacks will just keep having illegitimate Daddyless babies until they can vote in who they want. Then we will have a booming government like Zimbabwe. Can anyone name one Black led government, either local, national, or worldwide that is not a complete failure? And 90% of you vote for this? Not racist, just fact.

By VOLami

October 1, 2008 10:27 AM | Link to this

1 of 4 debates completed. Early voting has shown that it can’t be about the issues because those voting haven’t heard much about the issues being debated, must be about color and not issues.

By Louise

October 1, 2008 10:28 AM | Link to this

Why does everyone think that if a black person is voting, they are automatically voting for Obama. I work with 2 African-Americans, and they are both vehemently woting for McCain!

By tcoach

October 1, 2008 10:29 AM | Link to this

To those confused as to why people are saying that black people only vote for Obama because he is black. The answer is simple go on any blog or post or whatever you would like and see all the times people are told that the only reason we are not voting for Obama is because we are racist. It was Obama and the democrates who first began pointing the finger of guilt at those who disagree and lableed them racist.

Also does everyone think it was a freak accident that as soon as Obama gained the dem. nomination there was an increase in black voter registration.

I am sorry many whites have been falsly accused and badgered over the head that we are racist. We were told to shut up that you are racist. Now when the shoe is on the other foot it is an argument that people are told not to even make.

SO then I ask why are black, and white people consistantly allowed to call white people racist but it is considered wrong to suggest teh same of black people.

By Louise

October 1, 2008 10:29 AM | Link to this

Why does everyone think that if a black person is voting, they are automatically voting for Obama. I work with 2 African-Americans, and they are both vehemently woting for McCain!

By fr3dmars

October 1, 2008 10:32 AM | Link to this

The utter lack of reason in these blogs is painful proof of the disastrous failure of our educational system. Then again, what can be expected from N GA - home of the worst history in the nation of ethnic cleansing land grabs and the the rebirth of the Krazy Klan Klowns. Now STFU and go wash your sheets!

By Keep Reading!

October 1, 2008 10:33 AM | Link to this

I think the point the writer was trying to make here is that although as of Aug. 31, overall registered African American voters make up about 29%, in early voting they make up about 40% of the overall cast votes. Maybe with the assumption that most AA probably are voting for Obama. Simple as that if you read the article and not just the headline.

But naturally, some of the commenters turned it into some kind of racially charged forum to make ignorant comments about people.

By Yes we can and will!

October 1, 2008 10:33 AM | Link to this

Please tell me why is it NOT okay for African Americans to vote for a black man based oh his RACE???!!!! This is what the white people have been doing all of their lives!!!!

To Manny: Way to go with your blog! Too bad your fingers got tired.

Let me add my comments to your blog!

Or maybe African-Americans can vote for a black simply because he is BLACK!

Or maybe African-Americans are sick and tired of being sick of tired of our votes being taken for granted!!

Or maybe African-Americans are tired of seeing the Evangelical Christians (new age KKK party) determining the outcome of an election!

Or maybe African-Americans are SICK of the Republicans acting as if we are stupid as hell and wouldn’t vote for a person based on the color of their skin!!

By Billary

October 1, 2008 10:33 AM | Link to this

The FACT is, if Barrack were white and had the same stance on issues as he does, he WOULD NOT be the Democratic candidate for President. Why? Because he would not be getting 94% of the black vote! Most of the black vote would have gone to Hillary. It would have been more fragmented than what we see today. That my friends is a FACT!

By Pro Hater

October 1, 2008 10:34 AM | Link to this

Hey, GeezGuys, what about the 60% of non-blacks that voted early? Are they also idiots that will rot in their crappy districts? You got to love statistics and how people twist them to fit their own agenda. Think before you speak buddy.

By VOLami

October 1, 2008 10:35 AM | Link to this

1 of 4 debates completed. Early voting has shown that it can’t be about the issues because those voting haven’t heard much about the issues being debated, must be about color and not issues.

By talk2much

October 1, 2008 10:36 AM | Link to this

The early bird catches the worm. It’s all over but the voting; keep your nasty comments to yourselves now because it’s irrelevant; it’s on and like it or not times are changing. The only thing that has stand and will stand forever is the WORD OF GOD; otherwise, everything we see is subject to change. GOBAMA 08 We need new, more positive leadership. Race, Schmace, it really doesn’t matter. QUE SERA SERA

By talk2much

October 1, 2008 10:36 AM | Link to this

The early bird catches the worm. It’s all over but the voting; keep your nasty comments to yourselves now because it’s irrelevant; it’s on and like it or not times are changing. The only thing that has stand and will stand forever is the WORD OF GOD; otherwise, everything we see is subject to change. GOBAMA 08 We need new, more positive leadership. Race, Schmace, it really doesn’t matter. QUE SERA SERA

By Keep Reading!

October 1, 2008 10:37 AM | Link to this

I think the point the writer was trying to make here is that although as of Aug. 31, overall registered African American voters make up about 29%, in early voting they make up about 40% of the overall cast votes. Maybe with the assumption that most AA probably are voting for Obama. Simple as that if you read the article and not just the headline.

But naturally, some of the commenters turned it into some kind of racially charged forum to make ignorant comments about people.

By bill

October 1, 2008 10:39 AM | Link to this

WHY DO WE KEEP HEARING ABOUT WHITE PEOPLE VOTING ON A RACE BASIS. BLACK PEOPLE ARE ONLY VOTING FOR OBAMA BECAUSE HE’S BLACK. ASK ANY BLACK WHO THEY WANT-OBAMA. ASK THEM IF IT’S BECAUSE HE’S BLACK-YES. AJC- REPORT ON RACE WITH BLACKS.

By interested

October 1, 2008 10:41 AM | Link to this

“Nearly 40 percent of early votes cast by African-Americans”

So that means they are voting for Obama?? Wow I didn’t know your race predetermined your political vote!

By Just Because

October 1, 2008 10:41 AM | Link to this

Question was raised on several blogs I’ve read and participated on during this election year: Am I voting for Barack Obama “Just Because He’s Black?”…Let’s see…

A black male is pulled over in a white neighborhood by cops…”Just because he’s black.”

Black men and women were denied the right to vote…”Just because they are black”.

Blacks are discriminated far more often than whites even in today’s society, “Just because we are black.”

Blacks were made to give up their seats on buses or go to the back of the bus, or denied equal rights, “Just because they were black”.

Black men were lynched by mobs of whites, “Just because they were black”

A black senator from Chicago in 2008 running for the office of President of the United States will not be voted for by a lot of whites, not necessarily because of his position on this issues themselves, but not voted for “Just because he is Black”

So ask me again: “Am I voting for Barack Obama Just because he is Black? My answer: I’m voting for Barack Obama because of what he stands for and his beliefs are in agreement with my own, but most important, I am voting for Barack Obama… . “JUST BECAUSE HE IS BLACK!”

So spare me your “You’re a racist comments” and “that stuff happened in the past, lets move on”….

This blog is filled with racist remarks and comments only proves the point.

By Keep Reading!

October 1, 2008 10:41 AM | Link to this

I think the point the writer was trying to make here is that although as of Aug. 31, overall registered African American voters make up about 29%, in early voting they make up about 40% of the overall cast votes. Maybe with the assumption that most AA probably are voting for Obama. Simple as that if you read the article and not just the headline.

But naturally, some of the commenters turned it into some kind of racially charged forum to make ignorant comments about people.

By macman

October 1, 2008 10:42 AM | Link to this

Looks like McCain/Palin is getting 60%!!!!!!!!

IF MICHELLE MY BELL IS 1ST LADY I’M MOVING TO AUSTRALIA

By NotaAtlantafan

October 1, 2008 10:42 AM | Link to this

I would not say it has surged. This has been the way Black voters were leaning all along. You see they could care less about whether he is the best person to lead this nation all they care is he is black. And please don’t reply telling me your voting for him for other reasons. Like he is going to help the poor he’s going to provide jobs, he’s going to put it to the big corporations. What he is going to do is run out the corporations that all middle class depend on. Then who will he get to pay for the free b’s the non working lower class is clamoring for? Translation: There will be no one to pay for the “free ride”. So think on that for a moment.

By dw

October 1, 2008 10:43 AM | Link to this

If your white, normally vote Dem, and generally agree with Dem platform, but you won’t vote Dem now, you’re most likely a racist. If your black, normally vote Repub, and generally agree with Repub platform, but won’t vote Repub now, you’re most likely a racist.

By Xena

October 1, 2008 10:44 AM | Link to this

To clarify my earlier statement about blacks voting for Obama- I know black dems are going to vote for him no matter his color. What I was saying was that the tiny group of black CONSERVATIVES in this country are voting for Obama because he is black.

To Manny- thank you for articulating why you are not voting for McCain, but please tell me why you ARE voting for Obama. What is he going to do to change all of the things you mentioned?

To Middle Aged White Lady- You asked-“What does the Republican Party have to offer the African-American population anyway?” Before I answer that, I’d like to ask you several questions. Please feel free to do an internet search before you answer them.

  • Which political party ended slavery?
  • Which political party was responsible for the 1957 Civil Rights Act?

    • By RJ

    October 1, 2008 10:46 AM | Link to this

    Did anyone see the Democratic Convention which showed that Obama is half white and was raised by his white family? Maybe it was just me. Why is it that in America a bi-racial person must always be perceived as white? Because we still use the same rules that the slave owners used hundreds of years ago! Sad!

    By Lamar

    October 1, 2008 10:48 AM | Link to this

    Hey Confused. I think that over the 40 years that African Americans have had the “right” to vote, we have demonstrated our willingness to vote for White candidates.

    By Pro Hater

    October 1, 2008 10:49 AM | Link to this

    I don’t think either candidate is a good choice. I am voting against McCain and not for Obama. You people are scared of what will happen to this country if Obama wins, I am more afraid of what will happen in McCain wins and dies. You think this “hockey mom”, beauty pagent contest is ready to run this country? We are in war times people and she has NO foreign affair experience. Have you even listened to her in interviews? She scares me. You McCain supporters really need to think about that one. Get past your issues when Obama/Biden and the democrats, use logic and really think about that. Just a thought.

    By Bryan

    October 1, 2008 10:52 AM | Link to this

    GOP gave them emancipation and gave the needed votes for the Civil Rights Act…I haven’t heard a thank you yet…

    By BooYah

    October 1, 2008 10:54 AM | Link to this

    I am sick-to-death of you racists, on BOTH sides, who don’t give a DAMN about the common good, as long as you get YOUR fair share (and a little of someone else’s).

    Our country is in grave danger.

    We need to start being “We, The People”, instead of “Us” and “Them”…

    Until we do that, we’re a nation divided (which, according to the song, is how we “fall”)…NOT the smartest position, in this global climate.

    Do I think McCain is a great choice?

    Not at all.

    Do I think Obama is a better choice?

    HELL no. He’s more “Dangerously Unprepared” than Sarah Palin.

    Still, I have no doubt that he will be our next President…and I can only hope and pray that I’m wrong.

    By Leslie

    October 1, 2008 10:54 AM | Link to this

    To Carol,

    If you read the article in its entirety, it explains that when one registers to vote in this state, the registration card asks for race and sex of the person registering. Thats how they know that information.

    By talk2much

    October 1, 2008 10:55 AM | Link to this

    FOR THE LAST TIME FOR bill and others like you: AFRICAN AMERICANS ARE VOTING FOR BARACK OBAMA BECAUSE OF HIS VALUES AND WHERE HE STANDS ON THE ISSUES. HIS VOICE RESONATES WITH US. THE FACT THAT WE SHARE THE SAME SKIN TONE HAS NOTHING TO DO WITH IT. IF HE WAS PURPLE WITH YELLOW STRIPED POLKA DOTS, WE’D STILL VOTE BECAUSE WE ARE VOTING FOR LEADERSHIP WE CAN BELIEVE IN. IF YOU DON’T WANT TO BELIEVE THAT, THAT’S YOUR PREROGATIVE, BUT STOP SAYING THAT OLE DUMB SH**; IT’S OLD AND IT’S A LIE. You are always putting down black men as the worst thing that ever hit the planet, now there’s one black man getting mad love and respect, and all the racists can talk about is bull. NONE OF US CAN TAKE CREDIT FOR OUR RACE OR OUR HERITAGE, BUT IT’S UP TO YOU TO HAVE PRIDE IN YOURSELF AND BELIEVE THAT THE LORD DID NOT MAKE A MISTAKE WHEN HE CREATED YOU. WE’VE GOT MUCH PRIDE BECAUSE WE SURVIVED. IF YOU DIDN’T TRY TO BEAT US DOWN SO MUCH, PERHAPS WE WOULDN’T HAVE TO FIGHT TOO MUCH; AND WE KNOW WHAT DON’T KILL YOU WILL MAKE YOU STRONGER. STOP TEACHING YOUR CHILDREN TO HATE BECAUSE THE MORE YOU TEACH HATE, THE MORE WE TEACH LOVE. LOVE FOR GOD, LOVE FOR OUR FELLOW MAN, LOVE FOR COUNTRY. GOD MADE ALL OF US DIFFERENT AND IF YOU HATE BLACK FOLK SO MUCH, TRUST AND BELIEVE, YOUR LIFE WOULDN’T BE AS RICH AS IT IS WITHOUT THE HERITAGE, ACCOMPLISHMENTS AND CONTRIBUTIONS OF BLACKS TO THIS COUNTRY AND TO THE WORLD. NOT ONLY BLACK FOLK, BUT THE LORD MADE US ALL DIFFERENT ON PURPOSE, FOR HIS GLORY. SO I COULD CARE LESS HOW YOU FEEL ABOUT ME, I’M JUST GONNA STRAIGHTEN YOU OUT WHENEVER YOU START LYING OR BECOME HATEFUL. GOD IS NO RESPECTER OF PERSONS AND IF YOU THINK WHEN YOU GET TO HEAVEN, EVERYBODY IS GOING TO LOOK LIKE YOU, YOU WILL BE MISTAKEN … GOBAMA 08 A PRESIDENT FOR ALL AMERICANS, EVEN THE HATEFUL, RACIST ONES <> GOBAMA …It’s the message, dummy. You tripping on race, not black folk; and you should stop tripping before you fall!!

    By talk2much

    October 1, 2008 10:55 AM | Link to this

    FOR THE LAST TIME FOR bill and others like you: AFRICAN AMERICANS ARE VOTING FOR BARACK OBAMA BECAUSE OF HIS VALUES AND WHERE HE STANDS ON THE ISSUES. HIS VOICE RESONATES WITH US. THE FACT THAT WE SHARE THE SAME SKIN TONE HAS NOTHING TO DO WITH IT. IF HE WAS PURPLE WITH YELLOW STRIPED POLKA DOTS, WE’D STILL VOTE BECAUSE WE ARE VOTING FOR LEADERSHIP WE CAN BELIEVE IN. IF YOU DON’T WANT TO BELIEVE THAT, THAT’S YOUR PREROGATIVE, BUT STOP SAYING THAT OLE DUMB SH**; IT’S OLD AND IT’S A LIE. You are always putting down black men as the worst thing that ever hit the planet, now there’s one black man getting mad love and respect, and all the racists can talk about is bull. NONE OF US CAN TAKE CREDIT FOR OUR RACE OR OUR HERITAGE, BUT IT’S UP TO YOU TO HAVE PRIDE IN YOURSELF AND BELIEVE THAT THE LORD DID NOT MAKE A MISTAKE WHEN HE CREATED YOU. WE’VE GOT MUCH PRIDE BECAUSE WE SURVIVED. IF YOU DIDN’T TRY TO BEAT US DOWN SO MUCH, PERHAPS WE WOULDN’T HAVE TO FIGHT TOO MUCH; AND WE KNOW WHAT DON’T KILL YOU WILL MAKE YOU STRONGER. STOP TEACHING YOUR CHILDREN TO HATE BECAUSE THE MORE YOU TEACH HATE, THE MORE WE TEACH LOVE. LOVE FOR GOD, LOVE FOR OUR FELLOW MAN, LOVE FOR COUNTRY. GOD MADE ALL OF US DIFFERENT AND IF YOU HATE BLACK FOLK SO MUCH, TRUST AND BELIEVE, YOUR LIFE WOULDN’T BE AS RICH AS IT IS WITHOUT THE HERITAGE, ACCOMPLISHMENTS AND CONTRIBUTIONS OF BLACKS TO THIS COUNTRY AND TO THE WORLD. NOT ONLY BLACK FOLK, BUT THE LORD MADE US ALL DIFFERENT ON PURPOSE, FOR HIS GLORY. SO I COULD CARE LESS HOW YOU FEEL ABOUT ME, I’M JUST GONNA STRAIGHTEN YOU OUT WHENEVER YOU START LYING OR BECOME HATEFUL. GOD IS NO RESPECTER OF PERSONS AND IF YOU THINK WHEN YOU GET TO HEAVEN, EVERYBODY IS GOING TO LOOK LIKE YOU, YOU WILL BE MISTAKEN … GOBAMA 08 A PRESIDENT FOR ALL AMERICANS, EVEN THE HATEFUL, RACIST ONES <> GOBAMA …It’s the message, dummy. You tripping on race, not black folk; and you should stop tripping before you fall!!

    By Carol

    October 1, 2008 10:55 AM | Link to this

    I understand that the Voting Rights Act carries certain requirements, but it seems that voter registration by race would be mandatory rather than optional. Otherwise, I don’t see that it tells you much. By the way, I am personally opposed to any government statistics by race. It just fosters the divisiveness seen on this blog.

    By talk2much

    October 1, 2008 10:56 AM | Link to this

    FOR THE LAST TIME FOR bill and others like you: AFRICAN AMERICANS ARE VOTING FOR BARACK OBAMA BECAUSE OF HIS VALUES AND WHERE HE STANDS ON THE ISSUES. HIS VOICE RESONATES WITH US. THE FACT THAT WE SHARE THE SAME SKIN TONE HAS NOTHING TO DO WITH IT. IF HE WAS PURPLE WITH YELLOW STRIPED POLKA DOTS, WE’D STILL VOTE BECAUSE WE ARE VOTING FOR LEADERSHIP WE CAN BELIEVE IN. IF YOU DON’T WANT TO BELIEVE THAT, THAT’S YOUR PREROGATIVE, BUT STOP SAYING THAT OLE DUMB SH**; IT’S OLD AND IT’S A LIE. You are always putting down black men as the worst thing that ever hit the planet, now there’s one black man getting mad love and respect, and all the racists can talk about is bull. NONE OF US CAN TAKE CREDIT FOR OUR RACE OR OUR HERITAGE, BUT IT’S UP TO YOU TO HAVE PRIDE IN YOURSELF AND BELIEVE THAT THE LORD DID NOT MAKE A MISTAKE WHEN HE CREATED YOU. WE’VE GOT MUCH PRIDE BECAUSE WE SURVIVED. IF YOU DIDN’T TRY TO BEAT US DOWN SO MUCH, PERHAPS WE WOULDN’T HAVE TO FIGHT TOO MUCH; AND WE KNOW WHAT DON’T KILL YOU WILL MAKE YOU STRONGER. STOP TEACHING YOUR CHILDREN TO HATE BECAUSE THE MORE YOU TEACH HATE, THE MORE WE TEACH LOVE. LOVE FOR GOD, LOVE FOR OUR FELLOW MAN, LOVE FOR COUNTRY. GOD MADE ALL OF US DIFFERENT AND IF YOU HATE BLACK FOLK SO MUCH, TRUST AND BELIEVE, YOUR LIFE WOULDN’T BE AS RICH AS IT IS WITHOUT THE HERITAGE, ACCOMPLISHMENTS AND CONTRIBUTIONS OF BLACKS TO THIS COUNTRY AND TO THE WORLD. NOT ONLY BLACK FOLK, BUT THE LORD MADE US ALL DIFFERENT ON PURPOSE, FOR HIS GLORY. SO I COULD CARE LESS HOW YOU FEEL ABOUT ME, I’M JUST GONNA STRAIGHTEN YOU OUT WHENEVER YOU START LYING OR BECOME HATEFUL. GOD IS NO RESPECTER OF PERSONS AND IF YOU THINK WHEN YOU GET TO HEAVEN, EVERYBODY IS GOING TO LOOK LIKE YOU, YOU WILL BE MISTAKEN … GOBAMA 08 A PRESIDENT FOR ALL AMERICANS, EVEN THE HATEFUL, RACIST ONES <> GOBAMA …It’s the message, dummy. You tripping on race, not black folk; and you should stop tripping before you fall!!

    By kcd

    October 1, 2008 10:56 AM | Link to this

    Minorities have historically supported the Democratic ticket, so why should this general election be any different than prior elections. Its absurd to think that minorities would support this ticket if the candidates did not have educational credentials and political experience to support their bid for office. We all are all Americans and should be supportive of the candidates running for office as long as their campaigns are not deceptive to the general public, which allows us to make an informed decison on who we choose to lead us into the future. Please dont let your emotions dictate your decision about our future. Take a minute to listen and be wise about your choice.

    By Tim

    October 1, 2008 10:57 AM | Link to this

    Palin is more experienced than Obama. Palin is not scared to stand up with military force if necessary. Obama has never even played a war video game for crying out loud. Wasn’t it Obama who said that Iran is a crappy little country that couldn’t threaten us? Libs are having a stroke over the FACT that a Hockey Mom is a better choice than their presidential hopeful.

    By Chris

    October 1, 2008 10:58 AM | Link to this

    Steve, I’M SIXTY YEARS OLD.. and YES I AM voting for Obama because he’s my complexion, Why not? For 40+ years of my voting, I had NO CHOICE as to whom I wanted to be my President! NONE of them “look like me” “thought like me” or “care about me”, so why not vote for someone that at least “look like me”. The majority of people in the USA are “Pink”, have ALWAYS voted for someone that looked like them, even if they knew they were not qualified, without blinking an eye (they was just pink). Now all of a sudden it’s wrong for people of color do to the same thing the masses have been doing for years. I pity all of you that think like this.

    By Pro Hater

    October 1, 2008 10:58 AM | Link to this

    What Bryan, thank you for rights that a human in the USA should have had anyway???

    By GAPeach

    October 1, 2008 10:59 AM | Link to this

    Change . . what change? A rose is a rose is a rose likewise a politician is a politician is a politician … matters not what color he/she is. It is a known fact that the Party that is running which is not currently in the White House is ALWAYS going to run on “CHANGE” … duh!!! Can’t believe there are so many ignorant people out there falling for the “Change” propaganda!!! Americans have stoop to the lowest level of stupidity yet!!!

    By talk2much

    October 1, 2008 11:00 AM | Link to this

    FOR THE LAST TIME FOR bill and others like you: AFRICAN AMERICANS ARE VOTING FOR BARACK OBAMA BECAUSE OF HIS VALUES AND WHERE HE STANDS ON THE ISSUES. HIS VOICE RESONATES WITH US. THE FACT THAT WE SHARE THE SAME SKIN TONE HAS NOTHING TO DO WITH IT. IF HE WAS PURPLE WITH YELLOW STRIPED POLKA DOTS, WE’D STILL VOTE BECAUSE WE ARE VOTING FOR LEADERSHIP WE CAN BELIEVE IN. IF YOU DON’T WANT TO BELIEVE THAT, THAT’S YOUR PREROGATIVE, BUT STOP SAYING THAT OLE DUMB SH**; IT’S OLD AND IT’S A LIE. You are always putting down black men as the worst thing that ever hit the planet, now there’s one black man getting mad love and respect, and all the racists can talk about is bull. NONE OF US CAN TAKE CREDIT FOR OUR RACE OR OUR HERITAGE, BUT IT’S UP TO YOU TO HAVE PRIDE IN YOURSELF AND BELIEVE THAT THE LORD DID NOT MAKE A MISTAKE WHEN HE CREATED YOU. WE’VE GOT MUCH PRIDE BECAUSE WE SURVIVED. IF YOU DIDN’T TRY TO BEAT US DOWN SO MUCH, PERHAPS WE WOULDN’T HAVE TO FIGHT TOO MUCH; AND WE KNOW WHAT DON’T KILL YOU WILL MAKE YOU STRONGER. STOP TEACHING YOUR CHILDREN TO HATE BECAUSE THE MORE YOU TEACH HATE, THE MORE WE TEACH LOVE. LOVE FOR GOD, LOVE FOR OUR FELLOW MAN, LOVE FOR COUNTRY. GOD MADE ALL OF US DIFFERENT AND IF YOU HATE BLACK FOLK SO MUCH, TRUST AND BELIEVE, YOUR LIFE WOULDN’T BE AS RICH AS IT IS WITHOUT THE HERITAGE, ACCOMPLISHMENTS AND CONTRIBUTIONS OF BLACKS TO THIS COUNTRY AND TO THE WORLD. NOT ONLY BLACK FOLK, BUT THE LORD MADE US ALL DIFFERENT ON PURPOSE, FOR HIS GLORY. SO I COULD CARE LESS HOW YOU FEEL ABOUT ME, I’M JUST GONNA STRAIGHTEN YOU OUT WHENEVER YOU START LYING OR BECOME HATEFUL. GOD IS NO RESPECTER OF PERSONS AND IF YOU THINK WHEN YOU GET TO HEAVEN, EVERYBODY IS GOING TO LOOK LIKE YOU, YOU WILL BE MISTAKEN … GOBAMA 08 A PRESIDENT FOR ALL AMERICANS, EVEN THE HATEFUL, RACIST ONES <> GOBAMA …It’s the message, dummy. You tripping on race, not black folk; and you should stop tripping before you fall!!

    By talk2much

    October 1, 2008 11:00 AM | Link to this

    FOR THE LAST TIME FOR bill and others like you: AFRICAN AMERICANS ARE VOTING FOR BARACK OBAMA BECAUSE OF HIS VALUES AND WHERE HE STANDS ON THE ISSUES. HIS VOICE RESONATES WITH US. THE FACT THAT WE SHARE THE SAME SKIN TONE HAS NOTHING TO DO WITH IT. IF HE WAS PURPLE WITH YELLOW STRIPED POLKA DOTS, WE’D STILL VOTE BECAUSE WE ARE VOTING FOR LEADERSHIP WE CAN BELIEVE IN. IF YOU DON’T WANT TO BELIEVE THAT, THAT’S YOUR PREROGATIVE, BUT STOP SAYING THAT OLE DUMB SH**; IT’S OLD AND IT’S A LIE. You are always putting down black men as the worst thing that ever hit the planet, now there’s one black man getting mad love and respect, and all the racists can talk about is bull. NONE OF US CAN TAKE CREDIT FOR OUR RACE OR OUR HERITAGE, BUT IT’S UP TO YOU TO HAVE PRIDE IN YOURSELF AND BELIEVE THAT THE LORD DID NOT MAKE A MISTAKE WHEN HE CREATED YOU. WE’VE GOT MUCH PRIDE BECAUSE WE SURVIVED. IF YOU DIDN’T TRY TO BEAT US DOWN SO MUCH, PERHAPS WE WOULDN’T HAVE TO FIGHT TOO MUCH; AND WE KNOW WHAT DON’T KILL YOU WILL MAKE YOU STRONGER. STOP TEACHING YOUR CHILDREN TO HATE BECAUSE THE MORE YOU TEACH HATE, THE MORE WE TEACH LOVE. LOVE FOR GOD, LOVE FOR OUR FELLOW MAN, LOVE FOR COUNTRY. GOD MADE ALL OF US DIFFERENT AND IF YOU HATE BLACK FOLK SO MUCH, TRUST AND BELIEVE, YOUR LIFE WOULDN’T BE AS RICH AS IT IS WITHOUT THE HERITAGE, ACCOMPLISHMENTS AND CONTRIBUTIONS OF BLACKS TO THIS COUNTRY AND TO THE WORLD. NOT ONLY BLACK FOLK, BUT THE LORD MADE US ALL DIFFERENT ON PURPOSE, FOR HIS GLORY. SO I COULD CARE LESS HOW YOU FEEL ABOUT ME, I’M JUST GONNA STRAIGHTEN YOU OUT WHENEVER YOU START LYING OR BECOME HATEFUL. GOD IS NO RESPECTER OF PERSONS AND IF YOU THINK WHEN YOU GET TO HEAVEN, EVERYBODY IS GOING TO LOOK LIKE YOU, YOU WILL BE MISTAKEN … GOBAMA 08 A PRESIDENT FOR ALL AMERICANS, EVEN THE HATEFUL, RACIST ONES <> GOBAMA …It’s the message, dummy. You tripping on race, not black folk; and you should stop tripping before you fall!!

    By Trying to reason with the unreasonable

    October 1, 2008 11:01 AM | Link to this

    An April story in The Washington Post that said Raines has “taken calls from Barack Obama’s presidential campaign seeking his advice on mortgage and housing policy matters.” Reporter Anita Huslin says Raines told her that during an in-person interview.

    Raines recanted his comments in an interview done AFTER that interview was used against Obama.

    Somebody is lying…I wonder why…does it make sense?

    It was just advice…he didn’t have to use it, did he? Oh wait…I see, it was WHO was advising him not WHAT the advice was. So I guess if I take advice from a communist, that makes me a communist.

    We’ll let the voters decide…

    You want to research something? Research how socialism evolved…or is it communism that evolved…good ole chicken and the egg…I promise you this though, it still taste like chicken and goes down smoother than it is supposed to…once it’s in place, the only way to excise (that means to remove) it requires a great deal of blood to be lost as well.

    Please, just say no to socialism or whatever newer prettier word the kids are calling it these days.

    By GAPeach

    October 1, 2008 11:04 AM | Link to this

    Change . . what change? A rose is a rose is a rose likewise a politician is a politician is a politician … matters not what color he/she is. It is a known fact that the Party that is running which is not currently in the White House is ALWAYS going to run on “CHANGE” … duh!!! Can’t believe there are so many ignorant people out there falling for the “Change” propaganda!!! Americans have stoop to the lowest level of stupidity yet!!!

    By GAPeach

    October 1, 2008 11:04 AM | Link to this

    Change . . what change? A rose is a rose is a rose likewise a politician is a politician is a politician … matters not what color he/she is. It is a known fact that the Party that is running which is not currently in the White House is ALWAYS going to run on “CHANGE” … duh!!! Can’t believe there are so many ignorant people out there falling for the “Change” propaganda!!! Americans have stoop to the lowest level of stupidity yet!!!

    By Randy

    October 1, 2008 11:04 AM | Link to this

    Wishful thinking by Democrats. Obama will not win Georgia, to many of us real Americans who are not voting for free money(Gov’t playing sugar daddy) and are voting our morals.

    By GAPeach

    October 1, 2008 11:04 AM | Link to this

    Change . . what change? A rose is a rose is a rose likewise a politician is a politician is a politician … matters not what color he/she is. It is a known fact that the Party that is running which is not currently in the White House is ALWAYS going to run on “CHANGE” … duh!!! Can’t believe there are so many ignorant people out there falling for the “Change” propaganda!!! Americans have stoop to the lowest level of stupidity yet!!!

    By GAPeach

    October 1, 2008 11:04 AM | Link to this

    Change . . what change? A rose is a rose is a rose likewise a politician is a politician is a politician … matters not what color he/she is. It is a known fact that the Party that is running which is not currently in the White House is ALWAYS going to run on “CHANGE” … duh!!! Can’t believe there are so many ignorant people out there falling for the “Change” propaganda!!! Americans have stoop to the lowest level of stupidity yet!!!

    By Bob

    October 1, 2008 11:04 AM | Link to this

    An Obama surge? So you’re assuming that all the black people voting are voting for Obama? You are probably right on that one but that means that 60 percent are not black. Assuming that we all vote for our own ‘races’, especially us white Republican bigot homophobe hate mongers, that means 60 percent of the vote will not go to Obama. How does he win GA with those numbers?

    By steve-o

    October 1, 2008 11:05 AM | Link to this

    Steve @ 10.17,

    You’re full of crap. First of all, Obama plans to raise taxes on the top 5%, of which you are probably not a member of since you have time to blog on here. With the rising costs in constructing infrastructure, a deepening deficit, and a declining education system, investments need to be made and that money just doesn’t fall out of the sky.

    Second of all, if your theory on blacks voting for black candidates were really true, then blacks would have registered overwhelmingly Republican. Also, Clarence Thomas isn’t exactly popular within the black community.

    BTW, when’s the last time you voted for a non-white candidate?

    By Mike

    October 1, 2008 11:05 AM | Link to this

    There is no way Karen Handel will let Obama win Georgia.

    By TeriJ

    October 1, 2008 11:06 AM | Link to this

    I’m voting for Obama, not because he is Black, but because McCain is as dumb as a bag of rocks, cannot and does not keep his word, plays games with the American people, and just plain lies whenever it suits him.

    With the mess our economy is in right now, who in their right mind would want to put McCain and Palin (ugh!) into the White House?

    People, you eyes are wide shut! I know your parents taught you to hate people because of their skin color, but you’re adults now. Wake the crap up!

    Obama is our best bet in Washington right now. If McCain wins (which I SINCERELY doubt) it will be the same old politics as usual - the Bush Doctrine.

    Is that what you want? I certainly hope not! We’re in enough trouble as it is.

    By slinkymalinky

    October 1, 2008 11:06 AM | Link to this

    Just finished my second vote and now driving across town for the third. 5 others in the car with me. All you have to do is write down a wrong addresss and vote. Obama will be president before they straighen this mess out. What a hoot.. YES WE CAN!

    By onefreeman

    October 1, 2008 11:07 AM | Link to this

    There’s always plenty of “false flags” on this site.

    SAD! Just Vote.

    By Christopher See

    October 1, 2008 11:08 AM | Link to this

    As usual the ignorance that keeps this country from moving forward rears its ugly head in this forum. Come on people! If what your doing isn’t working, if it isn’t bringing out the best of who you are, its time to change. No one can tell me that anything is going in the right direction in this country. Open your eyes, open your minds, what we are doing is not working for us, and it certainly is not bring out the best in us. It is time to make a change. Leave the past were it belongs, we only have now to shape our future. John McCain is the past. Barak Obama is the future, who cares what color he is? It 2008, not 1808.

    By Pro Hater

    October 1, 2008 11:10 AM | Link to this

    Tim, Palin couldn’t even point out Iran on a map. Get past her looks and rethink your statement my friend. People talk about Obama and his family being unpatriotic, but Palin’s husband was on a committee to have Alaska secede from the USA. That doesn’t sound like a family that like the USA very much, but you want her 2nd in charge. Brilliant!

    By Tim

    October 1, 2008 11:12 AM | Link to this

    Which party has more Ex- KKK members currently serving in the U.S. Senate? I’ll give you a hint: The Republicans have zero. You guys voted for Sen. Byrd, you voted for George Wallace in Alabama, and you will vote for whatever Democrat is running. Because you all have an “If its free, its for me” attitude. Your bubble is going to burst. Your lives are not going to get better because you are not going to let it get better. When you don’t have white people to blame, you will just feed off of each other. Take the whole continent of Africa as an example.

    By Christopher See

    October 1, 2008 11:12 AM | Link to this

    As usual the ignorance that keeps this country from moving forward rears its ugly head in this forum. Come on people! If what your doing isn’t working, if it isn’t bringing out the best of who you are, its time to change. No one can tell me that anything is going in the right direction in this country. Open your eyes, open your minds, what we are doing is not working for us, and it certainly is not bring out the best in us. It is time to make a change. Leave the past were it belongs, we only have now to shape our future. John McCain is the past. Barak Obama is the future, who cares what color he is? It 2008, not 1808.

    By q

    October 1, 2008 11:13 AM | Link to this

    hey Confused:

    We blacks have voted for the white guy all of our lives!!

    I don’t think you can call us racists.

    You idiot!!!

    By Earl

    October 1, 2008 11:14 AM | Link to this

    There is nothing and I mean nothing Obama could do or say now and not get 90 per cent of the black vote. Obama could stand behind a podium and say he supports Ben Ladin; he could say he hates America and wants to see all whites killed by sunset and still he’d get the black vote for President. I am by no means saying this is how Obama feels, I am saying this is how his followers think. Do not believe for one second they have given any thought whatsoever as to why they are voting for him, they just know they are. I don’t think blacks have the intellectual capacity, the majority of their race…not black Republicans, I exclude them, to ever vote for a more qualified non-black of any race over any balck. They almost all subscribe to ” Any black over any other non-black.”

    By The Truth Comes Out

    October 1, 2008 11:16 AM | Link to this

    NObama’s income tax proposals compared to McCains.

    INCOME TAX MCCAIN (no changes) Single making 30K - tax $4,500 Single making 50K - tax $12,500 Single making 75K - tax $18,750 Married making 60K- tax $9,000 Married making 75K - tax $18,750 Married making 125K - tax $31,250

    OBAMA (reversion to pre-Bush tax cuts) Single making 30K - tax $8,400 Single making 50K - tax $14,000 Single making 75K - tax $23,250 Married making 60K - tax $16,800 Married making 75K - tax $21,000 Married making 125K - tax $38,750 Under Obama, your taxes could almost double!

    By Goldie

    October 1, 2008 11:18 AM | Link to this

    Ronald Reagan was the best bi-partisan preseident we have had in recent memory.

    Craig @ 9:28 — LMAO!

    Ray-gun was not “bi-partisan”… the whole divide-n-conquer strategy of Lee Atwater began during the Ray-gun years. Ray-gun was the first political president who tried to rule solely based on representing HIS PARTY’S IDEOLOGY, instead of representing the interests of all Americans.

    And I agree with you that voting for someone simply due to ethnicity is not the way to go. I’m a white woman and I early voted last week based on the serious issues we’re facing today, and that’s why Obama needs to win in November. No more of the McSame.

    By Sando

    October 1, 2008 11:18 AM | Link to this

    Barack Hussein Obama -

    The Clayton County School System of Presidential Candidates

    (Literally)

    Gee, I wonder who the leading in Presidential votes is in Clayton County right now……

    By Leslie

    October 1, 2008 11:19 AM | Link to this

    People need to just stop with the racial crap. I am a lower middle class white woman who thinks and reads and researches the issues and it is my opinion that Barack Obama is the best candidate for president. For me, McCain represents more of the same and Palin represents the destruction of my rights as a woman. They both scare me. It is my hope that many of those undecided voters vote for Obama even for no other reason than he’s the lesser of two evils. The man is well educated, intelligent and as I am, he’s sick of the way things are. I think our country would be better off in his hands than in those of his opponent’s and his running mate’s.

    By blankity blank

    October 1, 2008 11:19 AM | Link to this

    I sense a whole lot of irrational fear from McCain supporters. Lots of silliness. Palin as VP has more experience than Obama?? She can show it off and carry McCain to victory on Thursday night. ha,ha. Who has run the deficit up to $480 billion for the new year starting today… without factoring in the spare change of $10 billion a month in Iraq? Who left office with two years of surpluses when he left office only eight years ago? * A DEMOCRAT !! * Republicans march out the same garbage buzz words (taxes,he’s a liberal, socialized medicine, Goebel-sized lies) perfume it and call it a rose. It’s still garbage.

    Fox News, Hennity, Limberger, Boortz, take advantage of this mental laziness and emotional stuntedness.

    By edward

    October 1, 2008 11:22 AM | Link to this

    If I read the article correctly, it states how they know who is black and who is white. Also the gender. It says that THEY WRITE IT THEMSELVES!!!! It seems that the ignorant people asking this question have never voted in Georgia. They do it also if they have ever voted. It also shows more whites are voting than blacks. So how can this be a racial thing? Oh yea, because it says that more than usual are turning out. Well, I seem to remember that BILL CLINTON WHO IS WHITE, got alot of votes from the black community. Was that racist too??

    By Goldie

    October 1, 2008 11:23 AM | Link to this

    Randy @ 11:04 — I, too, am voting for my “morals” and that’s why I voted last week for Barack Obama. The Repugs have had their guy in the White House for the past 8 years and look where their “morals” have gotten us now!

    No more corporate welfare or regime change in Iraq off the backs of middle class Americans — vote Obama!

    By Pro Hater

    October 1, 2008 11:23 AM | Link to this

    Great point Earl! You are the man!

    By IDP

    October 1, 2008 2:33 PM | Link to this

    Hey keeping it real…..

    THE PARTY IS OVER!!!!!!!!!

    By Jack

    October 1, 2008 2:36 PM | Link to this

    Don’t be fooled again… OBAMA/Biden 08

    By taylor

    October 1, 2008 2:37 PM | Link to this

    Never trust a man that talks too loud! they are overcompensating for the fact that what they have to say is meaningless.

    By IDP

    October 1, 2008 2:38 PM | Link to this

    Hey keeping it real…..

    THE PARTY IS OVER!!!!!!!!!

    By JJ

    October 1, 2008 2:38 PM | Link to this

    According to your numbers, 53,160 African Americans have voted & 77,818 Whites have voted. Interesting direction your headline took. Your point being???

    By Obama 08

    October 1, 2008 2:39 PM | Link to this

    If Barack Obama was a 100% white male, I still would have went at 8:03 this morning and voted for him just like I did Kerry, Gore and Bill Clinton.

    Is it so hard for some white Americans to believe that a black candidate just happens to be the better of the two?

    Trust me, if black people thought Obama was not qualified, his political support would be right where Jesse Jackson’s was in the 80’s (non existent).

    OBAMA 08’

    By Will

    October 1, 2008 2:40 PM | Link to this

    Well, at least all of you are voting. You vote for whom you feel will be the right person for the job. Then if that person, or if the other candidate got in, cannot fulfill their responsibility, then you have a right to complain, rant and to request their impeachment.

    Yes, President George Dubya Bush was a bad decision, and is inept on many issues. The other candidate Kerry flip-flopped too much, and worried & scared me on what he was capable of making a mess of or messing up.

    This marking either black, white, asian or whatever race, sex on the registration, well, do whatever you feel is right. My race and sex doesn’t matter, U.S. citizen, and where you reside does.

    In this election. Get over this race, sex or whatever hang-ups that seems to befuddle and fog up your mind. Get rid of your prejudices and aberrational ideas, they don’t do anyone any good. What matters is their qualifications, knowledge, experience and expertise. I for one have gotten away from any party affiliation because one is just a bad as the other.

    By DEN

    October 1, 2008 2:43 PM | Link to this

    As I listen to Senator Obama speak in Wisconsin today (Wed, Oct 1st) he states that he will make sure a plan is in place for MIDDLE CLASS AMERICA in the Bail Out Package. Someone needs to inform the EMPTY SUIT that MIDDLE CLASS AMERICA is the Bail Out Package. As long as you are not on welfare or an illegal immigrant receiving a FREE monthly check, FREE medical benefits and FREE housing you must go to work (as an employee as well as small business owner) everyday and pay your taxes and your own way because NO ONE is going to Bail you out. He also proposes to cut taxes for 95% of middle America, National Health Care, rebuild infrastructure, build new schools, lower the cost of college education, 500 Billion for new energy programs just as a start. Cut taxes and increase spending…the last time I heard or read of a Miracle of that magnitude was when Jesus Christ fed the multitude with only 5 FISH and 5 LOAVES of BREAD. AAAAAAMEN

    By Ted Striker

    October 1, 2008 2:43 PM | Link to this

    BLAH BLAH BLAH BLAH

    By amanda

    October 1, 2008 2:47 PM | Link to this

    obama stinks go micane

    By ObamaNRockdale

    October 1, 2008 2:49 PM | Link to this

    To the truth comes out … I don’t know where you learned your math skills, but you better go back for more training. KISS (Keep It Simple Stupid) … if your incomes is less than $250,000 per year, your taxes decrease under the Obama plan. Period! If you make more than $250,000 per year your taxes will increase under the Obama plan. I don’t know any “middle-class” American’s who make over $250,000 per year. Unless you are part of the McShame Camp who believe you are not rich until you make 5 million dollars. Goldie and Leslie hit it on the mark … do your research, look at your life, our country and financial situation. If you feel it is better today than it was 8 years ago, then vote McCain because he will follow the same path as Bush. If you feel things are worst today than 8 years ago, it is time for Change and Obama is where you should cast your vote.

    By Patrick

    October 1, 2008 2:50 PM | Link to this

    I am a black man and here are just a few of the reasons that I am voting for the Obama/Biden ticket:

  • He will raise taxes on those who make more than $250K per year. Therefore, he won’t raise my taxes. He is for the middle class. He wants to give those who need relief a break.

  • He wants to end the war in Iraq and finally focus on Bin Laden in Afghanistan. And by removing the vast majority of our troops from Iraq, we’ll be saving this county upwards of 10 billion per month.

  • He actually wants a REAL educational system. “No child left behind” is a joke! We need an educational system that puts our kids in a position to compete on a global level and not to simply push a child through to the next grade.

  • The fact that I have lived through 8 years of cronyism with this administration. I want a change. I don’t want John McCain because he is calling for the same policies and ideals. Yes, he was a maverick up until Bush got into office, but every since then he has in step with the Bush policies almost the entire time.

    • The fact that he is black is merely a bonus

    By demwit

    October 1, 2008 2:50 PM | Link to this

    Hopefully everyone will vote today.., that way I can be the only one voting in Nov. Just think, it could all come down to just my vote!

    By Patrick

    October 1, 2008 2:55 PM | Link to this

    I am a black man and here are just a few of the reasons that I am voting for the Obama/Biden ticket:

  • He will raise taxes on those who make more than $250K per year. Therefore, he won’t raise my taxes. He is for the middle class. He wants to give those who need relief a break.

  • He wants to end the war in Iraq and finally focus on Bin Laden in Afghanistan. And by removing the vast majority of our troops from Iraq, we’ll be saving this county upwards of 10 billion per month.

  • He actually wants a REAL educational system. “No child left behind” is a joke! We need an educational system that puts our kids in a position to compete on a global level and not to simply push a child through to the next grade.

  • The fact that I have lived through 8 years of cronyism with this administration. I want a change. I don’t want John McCain because he is calling for the same policies and ideals. Yes, he was a maverick up until Bush got into office, but every since then he has in step with the Bush policies almost the entire time.

    • The fact that he is black is merely a bonus

    By Corey

    October 1, 2008 2:57 PM | Link to this

    Confused, Allan Keyes is black. As I recall, blacks were not anxious to vote for Keyes solely on skin color. It’s Obama’s politics and his party. If Obama were a right wing Republican blacks would avoid him like the plague. Nice try. Are you a media junkie?

    By William

    October 1, 2008 3:02 PM | Link to this

    Well said, Patrick.

    By Transplant

    October 1, 2008 3:07 PM | Link to this

    I am shocked that the assumption is every Black person will automatically vote Obama/Biden. I actually voted for Hillary Clinton in the primary and was very disappointed with her loss, however, I will do as the Republicans, I will vote my party, Democratic, whether I’m pleased or not with the choice. Now for the remark regarding Reagan being Bi-partisan, in my estimation he was a very biased president, he was old and still acting. He did not like anyone who was not White, he did not like old people, the very young (kids) or the poor. He was not a great president, he was a jerk. Mr. McCain is similar, his state, Arizona, did not observe King’s birthday until recently, he is out of touch, with his many houses, he is an adulter and the Viet Nam war has been over for decades. Palin is an idiot, plain and simple. They cannot relate to me and my life. At this point, this country is going to hell in a hand basket with a gasoline motor.

    Remember not all Republicans are racists, but all racists are Republican and the AJC blogs prove it daily.

    By jct

    October 1, 2008 3:08 PM | Link to this

    People are voting early because they remember the last presidential election. I live in Dekalb. I can clearly remember what happened in 2004. I waited seven (7), yes 7 hours to vote. I am voting early so that does not happen again.

    By ObamaNRockdale

    October 1, 2008 3:16 PM | Link to this

    To XENA - Before you respond to middle aged white lady based on those two questions you asked, be sure you check your history book. Don’t just look at the party name, look at the party philosophy. I have heard the arugment you are about to try to give based on the party name and it doesn’t hold water when you look at the change in party philosophy. The republican party in name gave freedom to blacks and voting right. The republican party after their philosophy change took those voting rights away, endored Jim Crow Laws and repelled every effort made during Reconstruction. All of this written by a registered Independent :-)

    By DJNEWT

    October 1, 2008 3:18 PM | Link to this

    Barak Hussein Obama??? You people have to be kidding me. Are you people really going to vote for this guy??? People in this country truly have lost their minds. I keep thinking that everyone is going to jump out and say.. SIKE, got you,, we had you believing that we were voting for this sleeper cell. Whatever, you’ll get your change. You idots can seal your own doom. I will survive either way because I’m prepared. You morons that are voting for this clown will see real quick that you have screwed up, and you will not be ready to survive the “Change” that you wanted. Bring it on!!

    By lakerat

    October 1, 2008 3:30 PM | Link to this

    Said another way, since you assume that all of the “nearly 40%” are voting for Hussein, then that means OVER 60% who have already cast ballots voted for McCain. To what “surge” do you refer?

    By Reality

    October 1, 2008 3:37 PM | Link to this

    A little history lesson - Mr. Reagan announced his candidacy for president as the “Southern Strategy” from Philadelphia, Mississippi while touting, “States Rights.” Philadelphia, MS was where the three young men (two white and one black) were brutally murdered by cowardly racist dogs. These three young men were trying to improve the lives of Americans, all Americans, by taking a stand against racial injustice and bigotry. “State Rights” was the exact same mantra being touted by those who wanted to keep Jim Crow alive and well in the south during the struggle for equal rights. Was Reagan naive or insensitive when he pulled that stunt? I’ll wait for a response. And many of you wonder why blacks in general do not think highly of Mr. Reagan.

    By Copyleft

    October 1, 2008 3:38 PM | Link to this

    The surge in black voter turnout, of course… which tends to favor smart Democrats rather than stupid GOP good ol’ boys.

    Surely you don’t think ALL your fellow white Georgians are as dumb as the typical Bush voter, do you?

    By Rick

    October 1, 2008 3:39 PM | Link to this

    I’m white and I’m voting for Obama. So is everyone I know.

    By mscutie78

    October 1, 2008 3:43 PM | Link to this

    Most of the comments on here are racial, prejudical and just down right ignorant- Obama is WHITE AND BLACK!!!! HELLO - he’s BIRACIAL!!!! Black and white people on here fighting over him being black when he is in fact both - why not look at the issues and vote based on the what policies best align with your morals and values - instead of trying to use race - afterall - he is made up of both ethnicities!!

    By R

    October 1, 2008 3:44 PM | Link to this

    Don’t overlook the gay vote. WE’RE ALL VOTING FOR OBAMA. WE DON’T CARE ABOUT RACE. WE CARE ABOUT THE ISSUES!!!!!!!!!

    By mscutie78

    October 1, 2008 3:48 PM | Link to this

    Most of the comments on here are racial, prejudical and just down right ignorant- Obama is WHITE AND BLACK!!!! HELLO - he’s BIRACIAL!!!! Black and white people on here fighting over him being black when he is in fact both - why not look at the issues and vote based on the what policies best align with your morals and values - instead of trying to use race - afterall - he is made up of both ethnicities!!

    By mscutie

    October 1, 2008 4:00 PM | Link to this

    Most of the comments on here are racial, prejudical and just down right ignorant- Obama is WHITE AND BLACK!!!! HELLO - he’s BIRACIAL!!!! Black and white people on here fighting over him being black when he is in fact both - why not look at the issues and vote based on the what policies best align with your morals and values - instead of trying to use race - afterall - he is made up of both ethnicities!!

    By FSG

    October 1, 2008 4:11 PM | Link to this

    If the Dems can’t win this year, they might as well hang it up. Obama as an incumbent would give them a fighting chance against Jindal in four years.

    At least Obama has free market oriented advisors; things would be more dire if HRC had won the nomination.

    Maybe if the Dems would stop calling everything a crisis, I’d have more faith in them. Oh, no, everyone in America can’t afford four PS3s - there’s a videogame crisis! Poor parents will be forced to talk to their teenagers! Oh the humanity!

    By nrod

    October 1, 2008 4:16 PM | Link to this

    N0bama 08!!

    By nrod

    October 1, 2008 4:16 PM | Link to this

    N0bama 08!!

    By nrod

    October 1, 2008 4:21 PM | Link to this

    N0bama 08!!

    By Black Voter

    October 1, 2008 4:29 PM | Link to this

    Vote early and often, that is my motto. gObama!

    By Out Rageous

    October 1, 2008 4:48 PM | Link to this

    When I voted early in Coffee County the Minority poll attendent asked why I declined to state my race…. because #1 it is not any of the governments business (it’s a privacy issue) and #2 it shouldn’t matter…. and I am a so-called minority myself. I URGE ALL VOTERS TO LEAVE THEIR RACE BLANK ON THE FORM.

    By BDOG

    October 1, 2008 4:53 PM | Link to this

    SOCIALISTS FOR OBAMA!

    By Will Jones

    October 1, 2008 5:05 PM | Link to this

    “Out Rageous” You are a great American for the truth you share (hopefully your vote was for Obama to confirm).

    By Covenant and Creed the only race we are is “American.” Divide and Conquer is the highly effective tool of sectarian factionalism so threatened by the success of Novus Ordo Seclorem.

    I recall hearing more than half of the U.S. Census forms filled out by us include an ethnicity response, as was mine, of “American.”

    More than half!

    E Pluribus Unum: We are “the Many” and better join in One Nation, by Annuit Coeptis pursuit of righteousness and humanity, and recognize the treasonous faction “Few” so bent on destroying the People, the Constitution, and Our Republic.

    Jeffersonian Exegesis

    By R

    October 1, 2008 5:15 PM | Link to this

    Impeach Karen Handel!!!!!!!!!!!

    By Question to Earl

    October 1, 2008 5:19 PM | Link to this

    Let’s see now Earl. You stated that if pres. elect Obama stated that he likes Bin Laden and he hates America, black people would still vote for him because he’s black. That’s quite interesting. So, if McCain stated that he hated America and that he liked communist, would you vote for Obama then? Yeah, I thought you so. Go back into your trailer and continue to pro-create with your first cousin.

    By Chris

    October 1, 2008 6:30 PM | Link to this

    The majority of blacks and Latinos are democrats, so it’s logical they’ll vote for Obama. The Republicans don’t embrace minorities, anyhow.

    Tim, keep dreaming that Palin is more qualified than Obama. She knows nothing about the larger world outside of Alaska and governed an area smaller than many counties in Illinois (<2 yrs). Obama’s a 11-yr legislator, an international American, and well informed on both national and international affairs.

    By CommonMan

    October 1, 2008 8:58 PM | Link to this

    Wow, just wow! There are so many on this thread who are still incredibly racist. It’s not surprising as I’ve grown up in the deep South, but it is pretty amazing how ignorant many of you still are. As a white guy of 43, I’m proud to throw my support to Barack Obama, he’s far and away the better choice in this election. First in his Harvard Law Class (regardless of skin color). McCain graduated 894th out of 899 at the Naval Academy. That result even though he was the son and grandson of Navy Admirals. Says even less for him doesn’t it?

    For the first time in my life, I’ve been volunteering to register Georgians to vote. What an incredible experience it has been. ALL voters’ voices should be heard. White, Black, Hispanic, Asian, Indian, you name it, we’ve all worked together to ensure that everyone’s voice is heard in this election. Voter suppression by republicans has been rampant in so many states that it’s time to make every vote count. The voter suppression tactics in 2004 in Ohio by the republican Secretary of State should give everyone the incentive to go out and vote early. Perhaps that’s why we’re seeing a surge in early voting, why we’ve focused our efforts on ensuring that everyone actually has the opportunity to vote. Karen Handel’s tactics have already begun to be described as Katherine Harris-like. That could not possibly be a positive comparison for Ms. Handel as the counting of Florida ballots in 2000 under Ms. Harris’ watch was the greatest debacle of all voting debacles. I encourage every one in Georgia to vote early! Make your voice heard and your vote count!

    By PChapeau

    October 1, 2008 9:26 PM | Link to this

    Well ain’t that something … we might actually have a chance of kicking do nothing Saxby out of office!!

    All I know is that everytime I call Congressman Lewis’ office I get courtesy professionalism and they actually take the time to talk about whatever issue I’m calling about.

    On the other hand, Saxby’s office issues a predetermined canned Republican response and assures me that Saxby knows best - and it is 100% of the time the very same position as George W Bush’s.

    This is the best news I’ve heard in days!

    By Mike

    October 1, 2008 11:04 PM | Link to this

    By J-Lin

    October 1, 2008 9:14 AM | Link to this

    The intelligent folks of Georgia are going to try out hardest to turn the state blue. I’m tired of the silly Republican mind games and the fact so many people are resourceful enough for themselves to find out the truth. I no longer want the agenda of this country or this state to be Hannity’s talking points.

    J-Lin…I am a republican and fully support having our intelligence tested before being able to register to vote.

    By DEN

    October 2, 2008 9:39 AM | Link to this

    I guess what scares me the most is that Obama will not place his hand over his heart to say the Pledge of Allegiance (which means loyal to our county). This man placed is hand on the Quran instead of the bible to be sworn in to office. This is the same man that we want to protect us from all the terrorist in the world, please………..do you people not remember 9/11, I do because I losted my whole family in the towers as they were visiting New York that that day. So it doesn’t matter if the man is GREEN, it is WHAT he stands for.

    By tia

    October 2, 2008 9:54 AM | Link to this

    DEN - I feel sorry for your mother ;)

    Everything you said has been debunked numerous times. But, feel free to remain ignorant.

    By DEN

    October 2, 2008 10:36 AM | Link to this

    DEBUNKED BY WHO….YOU. AND YOU CAN KEEP THE NAME CALLING TO YOURSELF. MY COMMENT WAS NOT CALLING ANYONE NAMES, IT WAS MERELY STATING WHAT I HAVE SEEN, IF THAT MAKES ME IGNORANT, THEN I AM PROUD OF IT.

    By DEN

    October 2, 2008 11:02 AM | Link to this

    And another thing that scares me…

    I bet you never heard this - the liberal controlled media would never report this, but, it’s true - Barack Hussein Obama refuses to say “God Bless You” when someone sneezes. He even admits it, in black and white, in one of his books. In his 2005 book, “Audacity of My Father” he talks about being a new dad to his first daughter. Here’s the quote: “When my daughter Malia was born, I suddenly felt the weight of the most important job I will ever have - being a father. I would look at her in her crib, and just be amazed at how precious she was. Sometimes she’d open her eyes and look at me; a few times she sneezed. ‘Gesundheit, little one’, I whispered to her.” (page 167)

    There you go! I’ll bet you also don’t know that ‘Gesundheit’ is a Arabic Muslim word. Everyone thinks it’s German, but the roots of the word are directly from Muslim Arabic, and the Germans got it from there in the 16th century. It shares the same root with “A salam alaikum’ - a greeting all muslims use. Both phrases mean the same thing - “Allah be with you”

    Several of his staff confirmed that when they sneezed in Obama’s presence,he either said, “Gesundheit” or SAID NOTHING AT ALL. What’s the matter, Barack Hussein - The Christian God not good enough for you? And people want this guy to be president?! Wake up America!

    By Mark

    October 2, 2008 11:17 AM | Link to this

    Count me as part of the “White Male” group who has already voted. And yes, I’m extremely proud to say it was for OBAMA/BIDEN!!! Oh, and Martin too!! :)

    By Jeff

    October 2, 2008 11:31 AM | Link to this

    This ‘White Male’ voted Barr/Root, Buckley, Monds, and Givens! (Oh, and Ferrell too, more because he the only option other than Bishop in that race!)

    By Copyleft

    October 2, 2008 4:15 PM | Link to this

    DEN: Last time I checked, there was no religious test for holding office in America. This is NOT a “Christian nation.”

    And lots of people say “Gesundheit,” a German word. Very few even know that much about the term.

    By Sandra

    October 2, 2008 6:28 PM | Link to this

    I have a friend who works polling a station. She had a lady come in to vote- she did not live in that area anymore(Bartow)- she lived off of Cobb Pkwy (Cobb). She said she was told she ould vote at the Allatoona area afterwards- they do not really check id’s, Guess who she wanted to vote for?? And it was not McCain.

    By Liz

    October 6, 2008 6:57 PM | Link to this

    I am so sick and tired of people talking about black people supporting Obama because he’s black. First of all, have you all forgotten he’s half white?!! Of course you have because Obama has as well. He wants you to forget that part of him so he can get the ‘black’ vote. I wonder why he chose to identify with that half of him when his loser ‘black’ father deserted him and his mother and moved back to Africa and became an alcoholic? Just food for thought… I wonder why he doesn’t answer questions about his poor brother that lives in a hut in Africa on $1 a month. He’s so willing to help out strangers (with our money) but not his brother, hmmm…

    By Mary

    October 6, 2008 7:04 PM | Link to this

    These people will be voting for Obama:

    http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wy09UpI60F8

    By Larisha

    October 12, 2008 11:45 PM | Link to this

    I voting for Obama. He’s so cute and smart. I like to do to him what that white girl did to clinton in the white house.

    By Larisha

    October 12, 2008 11:48 PM | Link to this

    I voting for Obama. He’s so cute and smart. I like to do to him what that white girl did to clinton in the white house.

    By Larisha

    October 12, 2008 11:48 PM | Link to this

    I voting for Obama. He’s so cute and smart. I like to do to him what that white girl did to clinton in the white house.

    By Larisha

    October 12, 2008 11:54 PM | Link to this

    I voting for Obama. Hes so cute and smart. I like to do to him what that white girl did to clinton in the white house.

    By Larsiha Jones

    October 13, 2008 12:28 AM | Link to this

    I voting for Obama. He’s so cute and smart. I like to do to him what that white girl did to clintin in the white house.

    By Mary Smith

    October 23, 2008 7:57 AM | Link to this

    Before you write your ignorant remarks you need to read the article. Race is accounted for because of previous discrimination. Just another typical case of ignorant voters jumping to conclusions, regardless of party. Wake up and get a clue people. As far as race? Obama = 50% caucasion, 44% Arabic, 6% African So no one is really voting for race.

    By Laquisha Denali

    October 23, 2008 8:09 AM | Link to this

    If you are muslim-american, catholic-american, baptist-american, african-american, white-american, black-american, german-american, chinese-american, rooster-america - GET THE PICTURE - - - YOU ARE NOT AN AMERICAN - and American is 100% American. United we stand, Divided we Fall. Hello canada, hyphenated americans are going to reap what they have sown.

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