Thinking Right

By Joe Bland

February 25, 2008 8:20 AM | Link to this

I understand Dwight “Chief Thunder Cloud” Malachi York, imprisoned leader of the United Nuwaubian Nation of Moors cult is a big fan, too.

By Glenn

February 25, 2008 8:29 AM | Link to this

Messianism, Farrakhan?!

Well, at least he’s playing Casting Director this time, and letting someone else be the It Girl. That’s a new wrinkle for Minister F., I believe.

Characteristically twisted of him to portray the U.S. in a fallen state from which, not all the Civil War dead and all the Civil Rights martyrs, but only Barack Obama can lift us.

Otherwise, it’s really pretty cool that even the Imam digs the whole trans-racial, miscegenistic schtick.

Even if it came from someone else, though, I couldn’t get with the Messiah program, as time-honored as it may be in American politics and the films of Steven Spielberg. To me, it’s as tacky as a Nuremberg rally.

By Michael Matthews

February 25, 2008 8:33 AM | Link to this

One thing to remember is that people like success stories and when they see a shooting star they want to grab hold of it and catch some of its light. That’s all thats happening here. Farrakhan once commanded the national spot light and had the attention of every media outlet for his speeches, rallies, and controversy. Being able to comment on the rise of Barrack Obama gives him an opening window to bask in the pride of seeing some one of that talent and character be on the brink of something so historical that it’s probably hard for Farrakhan to even believe that he seeing such an occurrence in the United States

By James

February 25, 2008 8:38 AM | Link to this

This is a big minus for Obama. White America hates him. I wonder how much the Clintons are paying Farrakhan to ‘endorse’ Obama.

By James

February 25, 2008 8:39 AM | Link to this

This is a big minus for Obama. White America hates him. I wonder how much the Clintons are paying Farrakhan to ‘endorse’ Obama.

By Ron

February 25, 2008 8:43 AM | Link to this

Good morning Jim,I expected to hear from this group,but not until much later.It’s something I’ve been pondering in my evil little mind.Maybe there’s not a lot here,but I’ll bet it’s going to make for lively debates.Everyone’s from Chicago.That’s good.Barak’s lapel pin.That’s good.Barak’s middle name aghain.Mrs.Obama finally able to be proud of her country.The snowball is growing.

By Craig also

February 25, 2008 8:46 AM | Link to this

Interesting, then, James, that “white” America has been voting for him, even in large numbers here in the South.

Farakhan is interesting, in sort of a passe kind of way. What I personally found more interesting was OK Senator Tom Coburn’s admission that the Iraq war was a mistake. http://www.tulsaworld.com/news/article.aspx?articleID=200802211A1_spanc13621

Of course, he still doesn’t want to withdraw - we broke it now we have to fix it - but it’s interesting that the Repubs are starting to see the light.

By Copyleft

February 25, 2008 8:54 AM | Link to this

quote: “Suppose, for example, that a national figure identified in the minds of blacks as a virulent racist spent two hours praising Hillary Clinton.”

Well that’s just silly, Wooten. A white racist wouldn’t bother praising Hillary—he’d be trying to garner Republican votes! A white racist would sing Tancredo’s praises, or maybe Huckabee’s, to whip up the southern-bigot base that the GOP has relied on for decades. That’s what white racism is FOR, fer pity’s sake!

By TW

February 25, 2008 8:55 AM | Link to this

Perhaps we could arrange a couple of rounds between the Dem’s Farrakhan and the Republican’s bin laden? That’d be a good one, eh?

Have to do it now though - word on the street is that bin laden will lose some punch when the Republicans are voted out of the executive…

By Ms. Writer

February 25, 2008 8:56 AM | Link to this

Damn, Hillary Clinton put Farrakhan on the payroll…

By bubasparks

February 25, 2008 8:59 AM | Link to this

is this news? America has fallen. Anyone who disagrees please speak up.

We have fallen so far that Iran mocks us and challenges us on a weekly basis and China sends us cash to operate.

By zeke

February 25, 2008 9:00 AM | Link to this

This should be a death knoll to his election! It will not affect the black vote, the radical feel good white vote or the socialist communist vote, but, it should wake up all intelligent white, black, brown, yellow, red and belief in the true American system vote to crush this vague socialist mantra that will destroy the US as we know it! Does not matter which of these two socialist populist demogogs win their primary, neither is worthy of the office of Senator, much less that of President!! McCain is not much better social economically, but, overall he is much better than those two!!

By Craig's Listing to Port

February 25, 2008 9:01 AM | Link to this

“Well, I suppose it’s interesting that ____ [insert issue of day], but I don’t think that’s what’s important. What’s important is _____ [insert Craig’s favorite sermon].”

By TJ from DC

February 25, 2008 9:01 AM | Link to this

KKK leaders supported Obama as well. Can’t stop people from liking you and your message.

By jbmlaw

February 25, 2008 9:03 AM | Link to this

Good morning all. I respectfully think most people do not blame an idea for the people who embrace it; I would use the same standard for candidates. I think the Nonsequitur comic strip had a riff on this idea a couple of weeks ago, depicting a KKK’er holding a placard reading, “Will endorse your political opponent for cash.” Osama/Obama has proffered enough bad ideas to attack him for those alone. (I do that just to aggravate the intolerant leftists here.)

By Jay

February 25, 2008 9:05 AM | Link to this

A mass murderer could see the good qualities in Sen. Obama. That does not make Obama any more likely to kill, or “associate” him with the person who said it. One has nothing to do with the other.

Despite the fact that everything Min. Farrakhan said is true, the media does not like who said it. Therefore, media will try to shift the focus to the messenger. I don’t believe a Farrakhan/Obama “association” just as I wouldn’t believe a Racist/Clintion “association” if one decided to give her a compliment.

I know “huge blocs of white voters” are smart enough to know the difference between a compliment and “association” (see Obama’s response).

Nice try though.

By TINY LITTLE BABY BUNNIES

February 25, 2008 9:12 AM | Link to this

Kudos for TW for offering the insight of the morning: the logical extention of Republicanism is Osama bin Laden; of the Democratic Party USA, Louis Farrakhan.

By AmVet

February 25, 2008 9:14 AM | Link to this

copyleft at 8:54, thanks for pointing out the ridiculously obvious.

Even when our esteemed columnist has a valid point to make, he botches it to the point of stunning ludacracy, with his blind partisanship.

I guess he hopes most won’t catch his glaring gaffes and the “faithful” will disregard the “logic”.

By Glenn

February 25, 2008 9:16 AM | Link to this

So today Jim reversed his position on the importance of political endorsements. Now, they’re important enough that unwelcome ones had best be dispensed with “early”.

By LydiasDad

February 25, 2008 9:17 AM | Link to this

HUGE negative. Would you vote for ANY Republican who had David Duke’s support? How about the KKK’s support? Obama should have told Farakhan to just stay out of it.

By Baggem

February 25, 2008 9:20 AM | Link to this

According to Mr. Farrakhan, “This young man is capturing audiences of black and brown and red and yellow.”

Guess you “white devils” who vote for Senator Obama are just an embarrassment for The Nation Of Islam, huh?

LOL to infinity!

By Dennis

February 25, 2008 9:21 AM | Link to this

By James February 25, 2008 8:38 AM “This is a big minus for Obama. White America hates him. I wonder how much the Clintons are paying Farrakhan to ‘endorse’ Obama.”

Wake up, James, and maybe ask yourself why some Afro-Americans are opposed to Obama.

You’re out of touch with White America. “White America” is voting for Obama right and left.

You don’t have to be a blind conservative not to see it, just an ignorant one to deny it.

By TINY LITTLE BABY BUNNIES

February 25, 2008 9:21 AM | Link to this

How come he didn’t say “a white man with a black father?” Is Sen. Obama officially black now, because Minister Farrakhan says so?

How come he likes mixed-race audiences as long as they are “captured” by a “black man”?

By Philip

February 25, 2008 9:22 AM | Link to this

Now all the Bigot whites got a reason not to Vote for Obama and they will try and use this in the South.Shame on You Bigots and Louis Farrakhan.

By chaz

February 25, 2008 9:27 AM | Link to this

As a black man I have to acknowledge that Farrakhan is without a doubt the most fantastic orator I have ever heard. It’s interesting that Farrakhan is also bi-racial, his father is white and may even be Jewish.

I have to wonder, after seeing the success Obama has had with whites, if Farrakhan regrets not having adopted a more universal, less racially polarizing, message. With the Obama phenomenon unfolding before all of our eyes, there must be a sense that his own potential has been wasted by the smallness of his assumptions.

So Brother Minister, are you still so sure that the races can not co-exist?

By Dr. Zach Williams

February 25, 2008 9:28 AM | Link to this

The days are over when anyone can tell Black Americans who they can embrace and denounce. Furthermore, all of America embraces Senator Obama, including a majority of Black America. We embrace him because of the good work he has done in public service. We embrace him due to the good policies we believe he will usher in as President of the United States. Similarly, whether mainstream America finds fault with Minister Farrakhan is of no consequence to Black America. We love Minister Farrakhan because he has stood for our rights when mainstream America was silent. Games intended to divide will no longer work. Jesus said “Ye without sin cast the first stone.” So before we go throwing stones at Minister Farrakhan or the soon-to-be President Obama, I think we need to roll back the pages of America’s history and examine all the atrocities committed against Black Americans-terror inflicted on innocent Americans without any outcry or attempt at justice from the mainstream. This new mainstream conservatism is misleading. Real conservatism promotes self-help and self-determination. Very few Americans have engaged in self-determined, empowering self-help than Minister Louis Farrakhan. Let’s look at Senator McCain and Senator Clinton, identifying all the questionable persons supporting their campaigns. We should but everyone knows the “conservative” media only wants to denigrate Black American leaders because we make convenient scapegoats. Too much mainsteam conservatism is hypocritical. Yet, those of us who believe in truth and equality will be there to challenge anyone who tries to cast dispersions on those it should respect and honor.

By Dave

February 25, 2008 9:30 AM | Link to this

Obama turns his back towards the American Flag during the pledge of allegience!He might as well set the flag on fire and praise Osama Bin Laden for the great job the did in New York.And you idiots want him as a president.All i can say maybe Farrakhan will be standing directly behind Obama-One shot two kills !

By Dave

February 25, 2008 9:33 AM | Link to this

Obama turns his back towards the American Flag during the pledge of allegience!He might as well set the flag on fire and praise Osama Bin Laden for the great job the did in New York.And you idiots want him as a president.All i can say maybe Farrakhan will be standing directly behind Obama-One shot two kills !

By Dave

February 25, 2008 9:35 AM | Link to this

Obama turns his back towards the American Flag during the pledge of allegience!He might as well set the flag on fire and praise Osama Bin Laden for the great job the did in New York.And you idiots want him as a president.All i can say maybe Farrakhan will be standing directly behind Obama-One shot two kills !

By kingbyron

February 25, 2008 9:35 AM | Link to this

I was there and heard the entire speech. Minister Farrakhan did mention how Obama even attracts whites. Once again the media is selective in its reporting. Here once again they are trying to use words said about Obama which are true as a means to hurt his drive.

By ChinaGirl

February 25, 2008 9:35 AM | Link to this

Kay Summersby. Ike. There’s a report that I heard only once on Public Television that Ike was incommunicado with Kay Summersby in the opening hours of the Battle of the Bulge. They could not get in touch with Ike for 16 hours. I’ve never confirmed this report, nor have I ever heard PBS talk about it again. Anyone have any info?

Boy the Oscars were dull. John Stewart bombed and it showed on his face. A disaster. oh well.

Cuba has filed suit in federal court claiming that mother nature drew Cuba’s borders incorrectly 1.8 billion years ago while the planet was still in formation and Cuba claims that Miami is actually 1 mile inside Cuban Territory. There seems to be a suntan lotion shortage in Cuba and they wants whats comin’ to them, you know, they only want their rightful share.

I see we let…them….HAVE IT!!!

I declare Cuba an international outlaw. The bombing begins in five minutes. (Will someone get the mic away from Reagan please?)

Wooten’s blog today is a long way to go for a long way to go. He’s out of ideas. Scraping the bottom of the barrel.

I love that Ralph Nader entered the race. He’s as relevent now as Pat Paulsen. Huckabee had a good bit on Saturday Night Live. He’s a funny guy, he’s a clown for my amusement, you know, he tells a story in a funny way, what?

As the world becomes muslimized, we need a enzyme like Louis Farrakhan to smooth out the chemical reaction with christianity. We need our black muslim friends to show the world that america likes muslims and islam and it’s all good. Just pay your taxes.

Poor Castro. Obviously the Cubans are still afraid to say anything. Once his brother goes, we’ll get the Cubans to rise up, and, and, and where’s all the poison cigars huh? Lets assassinate Raul and get on with democracy in Cuba. In five years it should be curtains for the Castros. If there ever was an obnoxious name it’s Castro. “Hey, I’m Castro, you’re dead, bwa ha. I’ve worn the same uniform for fifty years, and nobody knows it, I’ve fooled the whole world and saved 37 thousand dollars on dry cleaning”.

How does it feel, Fidel? How do you like being the one inflicted with death by castro-nature? Yeah, that’s right, death is a commie too, and mother nature’s last name is castro, and the bells atollin’ for thee, you monster. you horrible monster.

I think I can safely say that Castro is going straight to hell and his brother too.

While I’m as a catholista, am going straight to heaven. bwa ha.

By Slick

February 25, 2008 9:39 AM | Link to this

It’s a free country where anyone can say what he wants. Even a crazy person who talks long enough is bound to say something goo. Our current President is proof.

By TAFKAH

February 25, 2008 9:43 AM | Link to this

What’s that smell?

That smell is the flop sweat of desparation coming off the dinosaurs like Jim and zeke. These people are finally realizing that their day is through, and they will try any damn fool ploy to buy even a few more minutes before the curtain rings down.

But to do Wooten justice, let’s look at one point of his “column”:

Some things it’s best to get out early in politics. John McCain’s association, allegedly romantic, with a lobbyist was one. Farrakhan’s embrace of Barack Obama is another.

On the one hand, we have an article that passingly refers to the romantic allegation in treatment of a larger point about the behavior of McCain himself, and his deep entanglement with lobbyists and special interests despite his own claims to higher ethical standards.

On the other, we have an unasked for endorsement from a man who has no affiliation with the Obama campaign. Much less does this affair have anything to do with any action or choice on the part of Obama.

Further, Obama has criticised Farrakhan directly and openly just over a month ago. Here and here.

Still, Obama campaign spokesman Bill Burton said this in repsonse to Farrakhan’s endorsement: “Sen. Obama has been clear in his objections to Minister Farrakhan’s past pronouncements and has not solicited the minister’s support.” Is that enough of a denouncement to satisfy Wooten? Of course not. He cares nothing about what Obama might say or do; he only intends to inflame the lizard brains.

Wooten is a mendacious hack.

By pjmoore

February 25, 2008 9:49 AM | Link to this

Senator Obama has far too many examples of how he is not the unifier that he claims to be. Supporters of the senator are choosing to close their eyes to these serious flaws,in order to feel good about their vote. Whether it is this support from the Nation of Islam, the beliefs of his church or his inability to reach across the aisle just once in the name of compromise, this senator shows that although he speaks unity, his actions do not reflect unity. This election process is truly broken if the content of this senators character is ignored in order to make people feel better. By dismissing these weaknesses in this man, we are admitting that it’s not a big deal and we will welcome more divisiveness in this country.

By Dennis

February 25, 2008 9:52 AM | Link to this

Hey, Glenn!

I just ran across this site. It might have some of what you want to know about Obama. It’s also a comparison with Hilary - the voting records, etc.

http://tpmcafe.talkingpointsmemo.com/talk/2008/02/senate-record-comparison-obama.php

By Joan`

February 25, 2008 9:52 AM | Link to this

It just means millions of people like Barack Obama, including Farrakhan. There’s no connection whatever here, though some people will try to make one, just like they’ll throw everything and hope something sticks. Get over it. Barack Obama is the next U.S. President, and I’m thrilled about that. I’m a 73 year old white woman, if that means anything.

By Daily Obama banned me

February 25, 2008 9:54 AM | Link to this

Since Daily Kos banned me I have changed my name.

Yes, just like all the RW blogs, I have been banned at a Dem progressive blog for supporting a Dem Clinton.

Dissent for Clinton against Obama will get you banned on Daily Kos. Freedom of speech on blogs? Not so much.

Not to worry, I made a new account and will let them know how I feel about this.

This guy sums it up pretty well

Kudos to Jim and AJC for not banning anybody for freedom of speech.

By Glenn

February 25, 2008 9:57 AM | Link to this

Dr. Williams:

Though I dislike your “spin”, I agree with all your sentences—-including the ones knocking “this new mainstream conservatism”—-save this one:

So before we go throwing stones at Minister Farrakhan or the soon-to-be President Obama, I think we need to roll back the pages of America’s history and examine all the atrocities committed against Black Americans-terror inflicted on innocent Americans without any outcry or attempt at justice from the mainstream.

Surely there’s never a wrong time to conduct such an examination of the past, but why do you suppose that we haven’t done so already? Why again now, in the context of this election? Why as prerequisite for criticizing Senator Obama or Minister Farrakhan?

Doesn’t it go without saying that both men, because they are black and American, have been on the receiving end of America’s vestigial race hatred, in ways with which no white American ever could fully identify? So why not elect Louis Farrakhan President, if being black in America is such a robust qualification and magical cloak of immunity from criticism?

Finally, I did want to point out that all media are apt to latch upon blackness as a convenient difference that serves as pretext for scapegoating. All media are prone, with only stylistic differences, to do this because all mankind is in the grip of scapegoating and always has been.

Unlike Minister Farrakhan, those of us who worship a divine scapegoat discipline ourselves to resist such an abhorent cultural practice as ritual scapegoating, electronic or otherwise.

By TAFKAH

February 25, 2008 10:00 AM | Link to this

Just to prove that I do not only pick on wingnut throwbacks like Wooten, here’s a piece by Geraldine Ferraro that is nearly overwhelming in its mendacious hackery. Perhaps Hillary should be asked to denounce Ferraro?

If Jim were more talented, he could aspire to this quality level of bullsh!t. Alas, not.

By LydiasDad

February 25, 2008 10:01 AM | Link to this

OK, Dr. Zack. Give me some of examples of the “good work” Obama has done. I’m dying to know. “Hope” isn’t really work.

By M

February 25, 2008 10:02 AM | Link to this

Turned his back on the american flag during the pledge? Where do you people get this stuff?! Thats a total lie that can only be spread by truly ignorant people. Of course conservatives can make up lies to suit their purpose at the drop of a hat, and most americans have little enough intelligence to believe them. They have actually made Michelle Obama’s comment of how she was PROUD of america into an unpatriotic and evil statement. Obama did not put his hand over his heart during the national anthem. If that makes him a worshipper of bin laden, then so are about 90% of people who have ever attended a baseball game. Obama does not wear the flag pin anymore because he feels that it is a poor substitute for true patriotism. He has said before that he loves his country and owes everything that he has accomplished to it. Trying to demonize him over something so small makes us all into hypocrites.

By Craig also

February 25, 2008 10:04 AM | Link to this

Dave you’re spreading a lie. Not, of course, that that probably bothers you.

By Senator Craig (REPUBLICAN)

February 25, 2008 10:04 AM | Link to this

Disgusting. The miserable Farrakhan endorsement will certainly stall Obama’s momentum. Obama’s wide stance on the issues would have been enough to lose the election but just seals it. The Obama campaign is all tapped out.

Tap tap, tappity, taptap, tap! (Translation: I proudly endorse JOHN MCCAIN as the next President of the UNITED STATES!!)

By Shar

February 25, 2008 10:08 AM | Link to this

Mr. Wooten’s column today is a low blow. Using the unsolicited and unwanted endorsement of an extremist, racist criminal to bracket his views with Senator Obama is unwarranted, misleading and as fair as associating Jodi Foster with John Hinckley’s assassination attempt on President Reagan. He may have done it in her name, but that name was never willingly given.

Using his column inches this way precludes Mr. Wooten from reporting on the much more relevant, and underpublicized, goings-on under the Gold Dome. The current initiatives on water policy, tax restructuing, education reorganization, transportation models, budget priorities and/or cooperation between the legislative and executive branches have real meaning for most of the contributors to this blog, and Mr. Wooten often mentions his access to and familiarity with those who are most influential. Exposing and debating these issues of moment would be a much better use of his talents and public platform than this kind of clumsy attempted smear.

By NickSlick

February 25, 2008 10:11 AM | Link to this

Nick, the type of slavery white introduced to america was not the same type of slavery. African enslaving Africans rarely rape,or seperated families. Africans enslaved owned property, in America they were raped, both men and women, did’t own nothing, and built the country by blood sweat and tears.

U is da bigot wit out du sheet KKK

By pjmoore

February 25, 2008 10:12 AM | Link to this

Unity, oneness; concord; harmony

We may be hearing it in words, but we sure haven’t seen it in action. The actions of his past will be an indicator of his actions in the future.

By the way, he’s running for the President of the United States, not the President of the Democratic Party. So that unity thing, kinda needs to apply to the whole country.

By Mike

February 25, 2008 10:14 AM | Link to this

Dave, it is you who are an IDIOT, not us. turning back to the flag, not saying the pledge of allegiance, the muslim, all these are lies, lies, that have been debunked my friend. you are spreading lies rumours - bearing false witness - these things are NOT true

By Kemmet Aziz from Philly

February 25, 2008 10:14 AM | Link to this

“Some things it’s best to get out early in politics. John McCain’s association, allegedly romantic, with a lobbyist was one. Farrakhan’s embrace of Barack Obama is another.”

^^^^^ No Jim, YOUR WRONG AS USUAL!!!! Your comparing Obama being praised by the Minister Farrakhan to John McCain sliding his snicker doodle up in a woman half his age. Your acting as if Obama was on stage with Farrakhan holding hands together and waving to the crowd!!! Yes the Minister Farrakhan is an old coon who’s views on world events I feel he should keep to himself ( AND YES I AM A MUSLIM) but Obama did not invite Farrakhan to speak at one of his rallies, nor was he even present when Farrakhan made those remarks. McLoven ahem… excuse me McCain on the other hand has been married more times than Woody Allen, and his current wife is like 30 years younger than him. So I feel that you cant even compare the two. Obama being praised by a old man who is off his rocker a little bit, to McLoven’s sexual adventures in Baby land are in two different ballparks.

By Daily Obama banned me

February 25, 2008 10:14 AM | Link to this

It reminds me of the wingnuts supporting w. Obama could do nothing wrong and when you bash him you get attacked and banned. Just like on RW blogs.

Yes, my friends, the liberal left have been drinking the Obama kool aid and have turned into dittoheads.

They are just like wingnuts. But excuse me, I will not go with flow, I will not drink the Obama kool aid or be a dittohead.

Obama is just another weak, lying politician just like w.

By TAFKAH

February 25, 2008 10:15 AM | Link to this

Virulent racist NICK supports McCain. When will McCain denounce this excreable creature?

By McCain loves the young girls

February 25, 2008 10:21 AM | Link to this

JOHN McLOVEN AKA McCain IS THE GREATEST MAN THAT HAS EVER LIVED!!!!! HOW DARE YOU DEMS TRY AND KNOCK DOWN OUR SAVIOR!!!! HE IS SO BUSY DAY IN AND DAY OUT TRYING TO HOLD THE MORAL FABRIC OF THIS COUNTRY TOGETHER, AND HE STLL FINDS THE TIME TO LOVE ALL THE PRETTY YOUNG BLONDE GIRLS IN THE LAND.

By Mike

February 25, 2008 10:21 AM | Link to this

also Glen,

if cokaine and heroine users got the same kind of legal punishment, then there would be a lot more whites in prison too. The drug laws are racially based, becuase whites use heroine while blacks cokaine.

By Nader08

February 25, 2008 10:30 AM | Link to this

I’m sick of the political bs from ALL THE POLITICIANS!!!

Support Ralph Nader, a true progressive.

Ralph Nader tells Politico he’s launched his independent candidacy for president in part because of what he sees as the spinelessness of the potential Democratic nominees, Sen. Barack Obama (Ill.) and Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton (N.Y.).

Nader said in an interview that Obama is an overly cautious captive of his handlers who has a “relatively mediocre” Senate record.

Clinton, Nader said, “is a panderer and a flatterer.”

Obama on Sunday dismissed Nader as a perennial campaigner who was wrong in 2000 when he maintained there was no substantive difference between Al Gore and George W. Bush.

Nader called that “a verbal frolic and detour.”

“I think his handlers are getting him into verbal difficulties, because he’s making erroneous statements,” Nader said. “He’s going a hundred miles an hour, and he’s letting his handlers do the writing.”

“It’s all about political backbone,” Nader added. “His party has been gutless, clueless, spineless and he’s got to turn it around. If you look at his Senate record, it’s not reassuring. It’s a relatively mediocre one when it comes to standing up to corporate power.”

Nader, who turns 74 on Wednesday, also criticized Obama for “his belligerent talk toward Iran” and “his pandering on the Israeli-Palestinian issue.”

“He just didn’t distinguish himself” in the Senate, Nader said. “And that’s not a very good sign. Because that’s the real Obama, as opposed to the campaign trail Obama. The real Obama is one who’s very cautious when it comes to challenging corporate power.”

Earlier, Obama had suggested Nader is self-centered, saying, “He seems to have a pretty high opinion of his work.”

Nader responded: “Well, doesn’t he have a pretty high opinion of his work? I mean, for heaven’s sake, he’s a three-year senator out of the state senate in Illinois, and he’s running for president.”

Clinton on Sunday called Nader’s campaign “unfortunate.”

Nader said he believes Clinton’s current approach to campaigning “is basically a repudiation of her handlers and her political consultants, who really messed up her campaign.”

“Who’s the Hillary today, as compared to yesterday?” he said.

Asked how many lawyers he has to fight his ballot war, Nader said: “That has to be a trade secret, doesn’t it?”

GIVE EM HELL RALPH!!!!!!!!!!

By Joe Bland

February 25, 2008 10:31 AM | Link to this

Wooten has the easiest job at the AJC. All he has to do is put a couple of drops of blood on the water and the sharks frenzy with 70 posts by 10:30 a.m. Other than that, all he has to do is attend editorial board meetings and say, “I disagree,” or the occasional, “Humbug,” or “Balderdash!” Need a 45-year-old chamber of commerce Republican intern, Jim?

By LydiasDad

February 25, 2008 10:33 AM | Link to this

OK Shar. Jodie Foster demonized Hinckley and publicly admonished him. Is Obama going to admonish Farakhan? Doubt it, and you know he won’t as well. Black racists stand together.

By ChinaGirl

February 25, 2008 10:37 AM | Link to this

Nader is irrelevent and obsolete. he’s not even a consideration.

Forget Nader, moron. Idiot.

It’s Obama. Landslide. Tectonic Demographic shifts in our population matrix. That’s what you need to think about. Quit cluttering up the blog with your steaming piles.

I’m so sick of the nonsense. Obama.

Obama. Landslide. Mathematical certainty. Like it or not.

no backs, no vice versas, no changies.

McCain set fire to an entire aircraft carrier in nam. Did you know that? Research relevent facts B4 you blog, Dildon.

By pjmoore

February 25, 2008 10:41 AM | Link to this

WHY IS IT SO SHOCKING TO BELIEVE THAT THE NATION OF ISLAM WOULD EMBRACE A MAN LIKE SENATOR OBAMA? THE SENATOR’S CHURCH OF 25+ YEARS ESPOUSES THE SAME DISTRUST OF WHITE AMERICA. HATE IS HATE, NO MATTER HOW IT IS MASKED OR UNMASKED. I want a leader of something more honorable than actions and alliances of division and separation. Senator Obama’s rally call of unity only applies to those who follow and not those who chose to question.

By steve-o

February 25, 2008 10:43 AM | Link to this

Nice try at race-baiting, Wooten. You make it seem as if Obama was standing behind Farrakhan during his Savior’s Day speech, accepting his endorsement. How freaking disingenuous!

This is the same crap that Hannity pulls when he invites an ultra-extremist black political figure on his show, like the New Black Panthers, and label them as being representative of mainstream Black America. Continuous racial fear-mongering that echo back to the days of segregationists proclaiming that blacks want to integrate just so they can have sex with white women will hurt the GOP’s chances of ever attracting the black vote—or votes from any other ethnic group for that matter.

So go ahead Repubs, keep throwing blacks and Hispanics under the bus under the phony guises of anti-immigration, states rights, and anti-public education. Your party has become the party of dinosaurs, divisiveness, xenophobia, and fear-mongering.

By Nobama '08

February 25, 2008 10:47 AM | Link to this

we’ve been force-fed the obama syrup for too long. america will become nauseous from a sugar high before november. you heard it hear first. add farrakhan to the mix and we’ll be sick of sweetarts.

By Realist

February 25, 2008 10:52 AM | Link to this

The Jack A* who asked how much Clinton’s are paying Farrakhan?

Obama, his Minister and Trinity United Methodist church he belongs gave an award to Farrakhan.

Go check it out. Check out the Mission statement while you there.

Obama and Farrakhan been in it for a long while. Now Harold Wolson is trying to spin this.

There is nothing real about the Hope Man except “hopelessness”.

I know you are going to call me Racist.

By Glenn

February 25, 2008 10:57 AM | Link to this

Dennis @ 9:52,

Thanks! That’s the ticket. The author promises “surprise”, but for me the only surprise was that she bothered to think for herself, and to think smart, about comparing the two Democratic candidates.

Sen. Obama has always behaved like a young man in a hurry. No problem with that; so did Hamilton and Lincoln and TR do. So it’s not really surprising that an ambitious politician newly seated in the U.S. Senate, a politician who believes in government “solutions”, should play a game of catch-up with his legislative agenda.

But why did Hillary take so much longer both to attempt and to accomplish so much less? On Obama, she’s hot one day and cold the next. On herself, she’s always boiling over with enthusiasm for her Problem-Solver Self. She’s avid to have us know that she’s got more solutions to more problems than anyone else has even imagined.

So, where’s the tofu?

By pjmoore

February 25, 2008 10:58 AM | Link to this

Dear “Repukes are at it again”,

Your paranoia and hate is eating you from the inside out. You need to step away and find something in your life that lifts you to be something better. Such misery will deliver more misery into you life. Take a break from this discussion.

By Glenn

February 25, 2008 11:03 AM | Link to this

steve-o,

It ain’t race baiting for Jim to say that L. Farrakhan has simply made a bad smell in the dining room too long before the dinner party for it to matter.

And conservatives aren’t opposed to public education; on the contrary, we support public provisions for the education of the public. That’s why we want to defund the counterproductive provisions we have now, and implement new provisions as soon as possible.

I’m not playing with words, either; you are, by implying that what happens in the compulsory schools now is “education”. Get real.

By pjmoore

February 25, 2008 11:12 AM | Link to this

Whoa! Nice hate-fest. How in the world do some of you function is the real world? Hate of Black, White, Asian or Latino,what difference will it make because at the end of the day, you’ll probably “”STILL”” find something to be steamed about. Maybe it your nap-time.

By Dennis

February 25, 2008 11:18 AM | Link to this

By Glenn February 25, 2008 10:57 AM

Regarding Hillary tooting her own horn, “He that tooteth not his own horn geteth it tooted not.”

I like her ideas on universal health and no doubt if she gets the nod much of that will come to pass.

But whether it’s Hillary, Obama, McCain, etc., when all is said and done, they all belong to the corporations.

That’s the way the thinking of the founding fathers during the entire setup of the Constitution; those with the money ought to run the show.

You don’t have to be a blind conservative not to see it, just an ignorant one to deny it.

p.s. Speaking of guys in a hurry, there’s a guy from Athens who’s now in South Georgia, D. Rep. John Barrow. He’s a little older than Obama, but I won’t be surprised to see his name in the spot light in time to come.

By Daily Obama banned me

February 25, 2008 11:22 AM | Link to this

Some things it’s best to get out early in politics. John McCain’s association, allegedly romantic, with a lobbyist was one. Farrakhan’s embrace of Barack Obama is another.

Is this the best leadership our country has to offer?

My goodmess, a lobbyist lover and a liberal radical.

Geez.

By Obama Em**B**elli**S**es

February 25, 2008 11:23 AM | Link to this

Fact Check: Obama’s Afghanistan Claim

THE FACTS:

Obama campaign spokesman Tommy Vietor declined to release the name of the captain, citing the soldier’s privacy, and pointed to an ????ABC News account???? as verification of the story. Obama learned about the captain’s allegation from a staffer who had spoken with the captain, according to Vietor.

????ABC News??? said it talked to the unidentified captain, *whose account of shortages in Afghanistan was for the most part *accurately summarized by Obama, although not *verified.

The captain said, however, that the unit did not go after the Taliban for the purpose of getting their weapons, but sometimes used those weapons when some were captured.

The Pentagon has acknowledged forces are stretched, but spokesman Bryan Whitman said that without knowing more, he could not comment on the veracity of Obama’s claim, except to say: “I find that account pretty hard to imagine.”

Whitman contended “all of our units and service members that go into harm’s way are properly trained, equipped and with the leadership to be successful for the mission that they’ve been given.”

Obama said the platoon was supposed to have 39 soldiers. A platoon does not have to consist of 39, but can have between 16 to 40 soldiers, according to standard Army unit organization. It is also commanded by a lieutenant and not a captain.

According to the ABC report, the captain was a lieutenant when he took command of the rifle platoon.

Sen. John Warner, a supporter of likely GOP presidential nominee John McCain, sent Obama a letter Friday asking for details about the platoon and the name and whereabouts of the captain, so he can tell military officials about it at an upcoming hearing. Warner is ranking member of the Senate Armed Services Committee.

In response to the Warner letter, Vietor said, “Senator Obama is glad that this issue is getting the attention it deserves, and looks forward to working on a bipartisan basis to ensure that our troops have the training and resources they need.”

BURN obama ON THIS ONE!!!!!!!!!!

obama IS A PERPETUAL LIAR!!!!!!!

By Tim

February 25, 2008 11:25 AM | Link to this

Nick @9:47

Hey Nick, That’s the same thing that you mother said last night… Hey brotha Please give me MORE!!!!

By pjmoore

February 25, 2008 11:25 AM | Link to this

“”Okay, “Repuke”, now you’re starting to sound funny. You’re just not connecting with the reader anymore. Have a great day!”“

By jean

February 25, 2008 11:39 AM | Link to this

baracks only known religion affiliations are muslim and trinity church. it is who he is. if you dont like it, why are you supporting him? muslims are anti Christ and trinity church is anti everone not black. you embrace barack you have to take him warts and all. the truth sometimes hurts.

By Glenn

February 25, 2008 11:45 AM | Link to this

Dennis,

It isn’t that I mind a candidate tooting her own horn, it’s that Hillary’s just tooting. No horn. Don’t get me wrong. I don’t like hyperactive lawmakers; they’re diseased. But when Sen. Clinton wears her voice hoarse every day telling us how experienced she is in “problem-solving” and boasting that she suffers the most from the disease, and we find out that she’s in the habit of introducing token bills to nowhere and signing onto other people’s legislation, well. Well?

I’ll check out John Barrow. Thanks for the tip.

By ChinaGirl

February 25, 2008 11:46 AM | Link to this

War begets war. It’s a fact. Violence begets violence. The kurds. it’s always been about the kurds, you know, it was only a question of “can we get out before it boils over”. I doubt it.

This is why war is a LAST RESORT. Not a Bush boy whim, or an edict from the Saudi Royal Family.

Bush/Cheney. We were doomed the day the Saudis picked them.

By Glenn

February 25, 2008 11:47 AM | Link to this

@ 11:22, interesting term, “liberal radical”.

By Sheila

February 25, 2008 11:57 AM | Link to this

I really think Americans have a problem. I think it’s time for a change from this racist behavior. Can I read atleast one blog in the AJC that does’nt turn into a race war? Is this the only outlet you guys have to show how ignorant you guys are? Louis Farrakhan’s message is not anti-christ, If you would listen to some of his speeches you would know that. The problem you have with Louis Farrakhan is his love for his people and this frightens you because he does not back down from what he believes. If your Christian faith was as strong you would be more Christlike and not so hateful to other religions.

By TINY LITTLE BABY BUNNIES

February 25, 2008 11:58 AM | Link to this

Barack Obama is not a Methodist. He’s a longtime member of Trinity United Church of Christ, in Chicago.

By Carbon Footprint

February 25, 2008 11:58 AM | Link to this

You like that, glenn, then here’s another just for you: “Conservative traitor”.

Both redundant. Both describe the situation in Serbia and in Kurdistan, (and the white house)

Lovin’ it.

By JByrd

February 25, 2008 12:01 PM | Link to this

It is said to read this post coming from a majority of people between 20-50 years older than me. This is why we must fade out the twisted older generation of this country and start fresh because with all the hate and racism on this blog its a wonder a majority of you havent died from heart palpitations. You all are acting like a bunch of playground, envious, decietful girls and should be highly ashamed of yourselves. This is not the America I want to live in and with all that is within my ability I will ensure that the evil, decietful, hateful, racist voices on this blog die out in my life time. May God have mercy on your pathetic worthless miserable souls.

Disgruntled Youth of America

By pjmoore

February 25, 2008 12:09 PM | Link to this

“”HOW MANY LICKS DOES IS TAKE TO GET TO THE END OF “REPUKES” TIRADE?”“

By George Clements

February 25, 2008 12:10 PM | Link to this

It must be very convenient, Mr. Wooten, to hide your latent racism behind the not-always-completely-closed curtain of conservatism.

By Carbon Footprint

February 25, 2008 12:10 PM | Link to this

Jbyrd: do any of those deceitful, envious girls on the playground have an older sister for me?

Dont worry, 90% of the comments you see on this blog are written by three or four trolls posting to themselves. Real wonders of modern psychotherapy!

By Mark

February 25, 2008 12:11 PM | Link to this

Nick

Great post and oh so true. Stats don’t lie….

By Scooter

February 25, 2008 12:12 PM | Link to this

Well, when your supporters think more diplomacy was the answer to dealing with Saddam’s 12 years of deceiving diplomacy, what does it really matter to them? These are the people who realize the UN’s Oil for Food Program was corrupted and then tell us the UN was effective - go figure!

Barrack is a facilitator of change that can only take place in the halls of congress, where he should stay. He is far too naive for the position of Commander in Chief.

By Vasily D'Efferins

February 25, 2008 12:14 PM | Link to this

Obama will ultimately prove to be a garden variety left-wing Democratic. That is all you need to know.

By Repukes are at it again

February 25, 2008 12:17 PM | Link to this

pjmoore…. Only one from you pjmooore, but i doubt you can stop sucking on your Repuke Licker crack pipe long enough to grant me that wish. After all, you must be on crack to agree with Repuke Licker filth otics… Truth hurts doesn’t it… Smoke some more crack, lick some more bush puke and rant on pjmoore.

By R D P

February 25, 2008 12:19 PM | Link to this

I wish people would stop telling me why I don’t like Louis Farrakhan. How about I tell you: because he hates me, a white person. He has been saying so for years, and I hate him back. There’s no mystery about Farrakhan and his hatred for white America. Now I guess that makes me a racist because I hate someone who hates me. Go figure. Link: [http://www.hoosucks.com]

By steve-o

February 25, 2008 12:21 PM | Link to this

It’s funny that a man who is half-white is questioned whether he is prejudiced against whites or not. It’s really ironic.

Yall have fun being left in the dust. Something tells me that the membership for the John Birch Society is going to grow exponentially because a black man (or biracial, if you will), a woman, and a more rational conservative are all the leading contenders for the Presidency.

By Mark

February 25, 2008 12:24 PM | Link to this

JByrd

You poor gullible young thing. Take off your rose colored glasses and look at the real world. You’ll change your tune when a black violates either you or a family member. They are violent, vile creatures.

By pjmoore

February 25, 2008 12:27 PM | Link to this

Oh, “Repuke”, you really should do stand-up. That last one was really a kicker. I just like bustin’ your chops. Thanks for the laughs.

By Carbon Footprint

February 25, 2008 12:29 PM | Link to this

Like I said: 3 or 4 trolls. Real stool samples! (troll = tootsie roll, sort to speak)

By Repukes are at it again

February 25, 2008 12:30 PM | Link to this

steve-o….

You see my friend it’s not the half white that bothers us. It’s the half black that does. I for one will not take pity on this Affirmative Action project that this filthy, so called (For the people Government) attempt to cram down my throat. I’ve seen Affirmative Action projects to many times. They always have the same thing in common. Failure!!! I call a spade a spade.. You can’t make it a diamond no matter how many Repuke Lickers try to make you believe otherwise.

By George Clements

February 25, 2008 12:31 PM | Link to this

If the AJC executive team ever monitors these blogs, and if the AJC team is considering further staff reductions, and if the AJC folks are at all concerned about the fact that Mr. Wooten’s columns attract, day after day, some of this city’s looniest people, the AJC execs should take a moment and check “Joe Bland” at 10:31 and “Steve-o” at 10:43. Those two postings not only sum up today’s conversations very well. They also describe how pitiful Mr. Wooten and his nutty gang of followers have become.

Time to go, Mr. Wooten. Your 15 minutes of fame have gone on far too long. Time to go.

By Glenn

February 25, 2008 12:36 PM | Link to this

What have we got here then, Sheila, a “race war” or a religious one? Which is the source of the “hatred” you see, race or religion?

Neither Islam nor Christianity countenances racism; quite the opposite. So are you saying that to label Minister Farrakhan a black racist is itself a racist thing to do? Is that why such a small-time operator manages to stay in the spotlight, because no one dare name him, lest they be deemed racist?

By Realist

February 25, 2008 12:38 PM | Link to this

Only in a society this screwed up do we kill the likes of Martin Luther King but allow the Farrakkkhans to live and thrive and spread more hatred. Unreal.

You can thank the Hillary camp for the Farrakkkhan press release as well as for the Obama in Somali wardrobe press release. The Clinton macine is just getting warmed up. Watch out!

By Ron

February 25, 2008 12:38 PM | Link to this

Jim,Stick around.We loonies are just getting started.

By Li Williams

February 25, 2008 12:44 PM | Link to this

This applies to any presidential candidate: It does not matter if you are supported by Jews, Muslims, Whites, Black, other cultures, catholics, protestants, etc. You get the idea. It is what policies the candidate stands for that will help all or most of us. You can’t always judge some one my remote association, in fact, that is what makes this country so great; the freedom of expression in voting. Let’s not adopt the mindset of countries that are killing each other at the voting polls. If Hillary, Obama, or anyone else can have a transformative effect on people, all for the better. In fact the kind of mindset that you represent in this article is what we are trying to fight - a little transformation is due here, we expect better. Some of the most unsavory sorts doing the most damage to our country are the fat cats, and lobbyist who claim they are for our best interest. By day, they appear to be squeaky clean, but behind closed doors, they make others that you mention look like saints.You see, they have power and money to progress their horrible, policies, food, and bad medicine to all of us. I am more concerned about how the oil companies are driving us all into poverty. Not to forget the banking industry. Give me a break, please. Farrakhan can praise whoever he wants. He is harmless - but you and your press aren’t. This reminds me of the little agitators that used to run around creating negativity at school - is this the grown up version of the same folks?

By Repukes are at it again

February 25, 2008 12:46 PM | Link to this

To the AJC board. You have one of the best and brightest minds ever with your choice of Jim Wooten. Please hire 20 more like him. Thank you Jim Wooten for bringing O’Grilla Mania and the Repuke Lickers tactics to the attention of non-brainwashed American Citizens.

Respectfully Yours, Truth Party Against Affirmative Action President’s

By chucktown

February 25, 2008 12:55 PM | Link to this

everyone from all walks of life have backed obama or shown some support.there’s even an article about the kkk endorsing obama with pictures of them supporting him,they just hate hillary that much. if this is a possibility then why is it so far a stretch that the minister would support the right man for the job. there is a first for everything no matter what you think of farrakhan and his religious views.

By @@

February 25, 2008 12:58 PM | Link to this

It looks like everything is about black and white today Jim, so I’ve come with my contribution. Let’s hear it for Michael Steele:

“The leaders of both parties in the House have discussed the need for greater transparency and ‘sunshine’ in Congress,” especially when it comes to spending taxpayers’ money, Boehner said.

“By serving as a public clearinghouse for real-time information on legislative efforts to reform the earmark practice in Congress, www.earmarkreform.house.gov contributes to this goal and helps to increase accountability in the use of taxpayer funds.

“Transferring the website to a different address now — nearly two weeks after its successful launch — will inevitably cause confusion for visitors and discourage some from continuing to utilize the website as a regular resource,” Boehner said.

On Monday, press reports said Boehner is refusing to change the earmarkreform Web site’s domain name.

According to Roll Call, Boehner is waiting for House Chief Administrative Officer Daniel Beard to explain his sudden change of mind.

“Mr. Beard’s office has been thoroughly contradictory on this,” Roll Callquoted Boehner spokesman Michael Steel as saying. “In August, they approved the URL. Now, as the site is attracting attention … they say it is against House rules.”*

Change we really CAN believe in.

I’m still not clear on what CHANGE it is Obama’s talking about . I have my suspicions that he’s a sneaky snooker.

By Victor

February 25, 2008 1:01 PM | Link to this

I mean, what was Farrakhan going to do, endorse Hillary? McCain? Huckabee? Man, I would tithe to the Nation of Islam if they would endorse Mitt Romney just to hear Louis Farrakhan say: “Brothers and sisters, we must come together as one black nation to support…Mitt Romney. I mean, have you seen that man’s beautiful hair?”

By Wimpenny

February 25, 2008 1:02 PM | Link to this

How can I take this Jim Wooten (who is he?) as a serious journalist? Watch your spelling HURTS not hearts

By Wimpenny

February 25, 2008 1:03 PM | Link to this

How can I take this Jim Wooten (who is he?) as a serious journalist? Watch your spelling HURTS not hearts

By Apocalypse

February 25, 2008 1:09 PM | Link to this

Sick of Hillary? Do Something About It!

If you are sick to death of Hillary please let your frustration be known: I’m a PROUD Independent and support Obama! I’m truly disappointed in the Democratic Party. There seems to be a lot of in-fighting going on within the party and it is showing. I can’t understand why the leaders of the party are not standing up against the Clintons and their tactics. They are tearing the Democratic party apart……… They have to know that Hillary is greatly hurting the Democrats chances of getting in office come November. She’s down and she’s trying to pull Obama down with her. If she can’t get there…she doesn’t want him their either. She’d rather let McCain take it…and that is exactly what is going to happen if she keeps it up. She needs to get out of this race!

Here is a list of the super delegates who support Senator Clinton.. Write them and tell them to reprimand her campaign..

http://demconwatch.blogspot.com/2008/01/superdelegate-list.html Here is the DNC Democratic National Committee 430 S. Capitol St. SE Washington, DC 20003

Main Phone Number: 202-863-8000 877-336-7200

Contact Howard Dean http://www.democrats.org/page/petition/chairman

By Jackie

February 25, 2008 1:09 PM | Link to this

Every American citizen has a vote and his vote is an endorsement of the candidate that best fits his/her liking. Jim has derided James Brown and Daddy King family, yet, those folks were BIG REPUBLICAN supporters! At the least, there appears to be condescension, at the worst a base form of ra