Thinking Right

By rosa

June 2, 2008 8:26 AM | Link to this

He only distanced himself from his church when it became politically expedient to do so. To sit under that racist drivel for 20 years, I have to believe he is racist at heart. I’m sure Wright would advise him to “distance” himself in order to attain their ultimate goal. I pray that God will have mercy on us.

By Darnell

June 2, 2008 8:42 AM | Link to this

It’s hilarious to see the successful, influential white man call the successful, influential black man racist.

By CD

June 2, 2008 8:43 AM | Link to this

This is perhaps the first time I am actually afraid to vote for anyone. While I will have to go through the motions of the process, I know deep in my heart I have SERIOUS concerns reagarding the motives and morals of each and every one of these candidates. Seems we never learn anything and will continually bring forth the worst of the worst. This time the McCain, Clinton, Barrack “choices” are by far the ones that have my stomach sinking to new depths. I worry about our future and this time it is the “immediate” future I worry about.

By edj

June 2, 2008 8:44 AM | Link to this

Regretfully, I believe both Jim and rosa are right. Very disappointing…

By A

June 2, 2008 8:45 AM | Link to this

Funny…I wonder how many people, conservative or liberal, have been associated with someone who held views that can be deemed “inappropriate”? Why isn’t John McCain being berated in the same manner as Barack Obama? How can Hilary and Huckabee make statement about something as awful as assasination without so much as a whimper from the media and journalists? We all know why, even if you don’t want to admit it…and it isn’t right.

By voter

June 2, 2008 8:46 AM | Link to this

Normally I read this column to see the latest hate spewed on it. However, today I have to state we are talking about RELIGION here not politics. People understand politics, you go with your feelings what you believe is right. People do not understand religion. Too many try to get into it because they go with their “feelings”. As did Obama. For long he did not have any religion, except the belief that he alone can make things happen. Then when he was doing is grass roots canvasing in Chicago, he attending this church. He had a feeling in the church and equated to God. Unfortunately for him and the others in the congregation, it was not God he was feeling. Unfortunately for him and the “Pastors” (they are not Man of God Pastors, they are Men Pastors) God was not being taught or allowed to move in that Church. What Obama is going through, some have gone through in the private of their own churches. He is realizing this is not God. Unfortunately for him he has to separate himself publically. Many have attended a Church and felt the Pastor was not preaching the Gospel and had to leave that church. This seems to happen much more now a days, since anyone can get a degree to be a Preacher and can start a church hence being a Pastor. But not everyone is actually CALLED to that pulpit. By the way just because they are called, it does not mean they stay listening to God. It is hard to Preach the Gospel. There are so many sins that we are to separate ourselves from and we be humans do not want to do it. If you keep reminding your congregation you are sinning, less will attend that means less money for you Preacher man.

Anyway, his distancing himself from his church does not reflect his leadership skills negatively. Regardless of where this election will lead him, if we are talking about his salvation (remember separation of Church and State) I see this as God pulling him away from the lies spewed from that Church and hopefully closer to his perfect will. If that is what God is doing and Obama is following his lead. Then Obama will be a great President, the best one is one that follows the Leadership of God and not of Man.

By Aquagirl

June 2, 2008 8:47 AM | Link to this

Slick way to cut and run, Obama. I never knew an entire church could fit under a bus.

By A

June 2, 2008 8:47 AM | Link to this

Funny…I wonder how many people, conservative or liberal, have been associated with someone who held views that can be deemed “inappropriate”? Why isn’t John McCain being berated in the same manner as Barack Obama? How can Hilary and Huckabee make statement about something as awful as assasination without so much as a whimper from the media and journalists? We all know why, even if you don’t want to admit it…and it isn’t right.

By Darnell is a racist

June 2, 2008 8:52 AM | Link to this

Darnell you are truly a racist, and things will never change with the attitude you carry. Thank goodness beliefs like yours are few and far between. This is not a race issue, but when they have no other excuses people like Darnell play the race card.

By jbmlaw

June 2, 2008 8:57 AM | Link to this

Good morning all. The church-stuff is a side issue – I have previously published my “dot on a blank page” argument - and Jim Wooten’s final paragraph highlights the more interesting aspect of the Obama candidacy. He is a walking-talking gaffe machine. Ignore the 57 states, let’s talk about his foreign policy, his enthusiasm for “talking without preconditions” with leadership of Iran. Iran, now processing weapons-grade fissable materials, who proclaims the need for Israel to disappear from the face of the earth, who is the primary funding source of the last 2,000 deaths of American servicemen in Iraq. What’s his bargaining chip, or are the unpreconditioned talks mere show for American leftist consumption? He says he will unilaterally cut and run from Iraq, and thus hand a victory to the nearly-vanquished Al Qaeda – truly the mark of a strategic genius. I cannot decide whether the man is truly as naïve as his pretty words suggest, or if he is a malicious deceiver.

We have no need to talk about his domestic policy – he has none. Or if he has one, he conceals it – tax increases? Non-military spending cuts? This week Congress votes on whether to impose new pain on consumers with its carbon-trading bills. (Yes, I know they are trying to mask it, but the new expenses added to businesses will be passed on.) We will want to watch Obama’s vote – since he is not straight-forward in his domestic proposals, perhaps we can read the tea leaves.

By Darnell

June 2, 2008 9:01 AM | Link to this

Yo mama.

By Eric

June 2, 2008 9:02 AM | Link to this

All of this has come about because of statements people other than Obama have made in public. Hell, I lived in Alabama, a state known for its violent racism, for 24 years…a personal choice, I might add. And racism hasn’t rubbed off on me.

You might not be able to maintain your own independent identity, despite your social environment. But, there are many of us here who do it every day.

By Charles

June 2, 2008 9:02 AM | Link to this

If this was a predominantly white church, and the comments made inside were against blacks as opposed to whites, the lawsuits would be unending, the protests ceaseless, the negative media exposure constant, and the libel unfettered. Blacks think they are owed. Whites do too much to oblige them.

By Cammi317

June 2, 2008 9:03 AM | Link to this

I could not care less about what is said in his church or anyone elses for that matter. What I do care about is if he can do the job in a fair and thorough manner. His private thoughts and his religion are his own.

By Just Nasty and Mean

June 2, 2008 9:06 AM | Link to this

Now it is perfectly clear: Obama has no compass.

When it was politically expedient to be a part of that racist church—he was a member.

When it is not politically expedient—-he is not a member.

When he gets married and baptizes his children—he is religious—and “could no more disown Wright than the black community”.

Now, he severed his connections from both.

This guy has no “content of character” since it is abvious it blows with the wind.

To think Obama could use such tactics over many decades to become a candidate for president of the United States is not only scary—but sad.

We can do better. We had better do better!

By Taxpayer

June 2, 2008 9:06 AM | Link to this

Good morning, Jim.

I wonder. If the focus of your obsession were some aspect of John McCain’s life, for example, what would your comments look like? Any thoughts? How about providing us with your take on “fair and balanced” by giving us a side by side comparison of each candidate’s “pros and cons”. Come on, Jim. A little in-depth analysis can be a good thing, right? After all, as a “reporter” with connections and a budget, you are in a much better position than us average taxpaying citizens to gather and compile that information. Help us make an informed, unbiased choice. Tell us all about Ron Paul, Bob Barr, and John McCain. Please. There are plenty of people talking about Obama. Break out of that mold and discuss the other choices. Feel free to throw in a few words about Hillary if you want.

By Charles

June 2, 2008 9:07 AM | Link to this

If this was a predominantly white church, and the comments made inside were against blacks as opposed to whites, the lawsuits would be unending, the protests ceaseless, the negative media exposure constant, and the libel unfettered. Blacks think they are owed. Whites do too much to oblige them.

By Randy

June 2, 2008 9:07 AM | Link to this

Church is the last place that any kind of hatred should be heard. You won’t here that in my church. I think some African-American leaders and pastors, tell their constitutents and followers what they want to here. Basically, that they are still discriminated against and that is why they are not prosperious. I’m sure discrimination does still exist on some level, however, it isn’t anywhere near they level some African-Americans would like to believe. Telling people that they are discriminated against, hurts the ones being discriminated against mainly. Stop giving people an excuse on why they are not successful and tell them that everyone must overcome some sort of roadblocks to be successful. At least African-Americans know what that roadblock is, even if it is much less of an obstacle than some would like to believe. I personally treat people they way they perceive that I will treat them.

By GMAN

June 2, 2008 9:08 AM | Link to this

It is really sad when someone cannot make an honest slip of the tongue mistake by saying “57’ rather than “50” states. I think that we have trivialized what we want in a president. I want intelligence and honesty, something I haven’t seen in our highest office in a long time.

By Ray

June 2, 2008 9:08 AM | Link to this

Pfleger and Wright are both pandering to an audience that is anxious to hear about how much America owes them for past injustices. If these comments were stated in a white church, the church and the preacher would be labeled “racist” and condemned by everyone from Ted Kennedy to Maxine Waters. Double standard? The antics of the congregation, jumping up and down, laughing and clapping their hands at this drivel says a lot about the double standard and the congregation. Aren’t churches with a political message supposed to loose their tax exempt status by being a-political? The racial divide in this country is so wide that it is doubtful that we will be ready for a black president for another two or three generations, if ever. It is impossible for a black candidate to leave his ethnicity at the front door of the White House. Being proud of your heritage is one thing but idiotic rants made by church leadership and guest preachers have no place in our political system. Leader of the free world? I don’t think so.

By Darnell

June 2, 2008 9:09 AM | Link to this

Chucky wrote: “If this was a predominantly white church, and the comments made inside were against blacks as opposed to whites, the lawsuits would be unending, the protests ceaseless, the negative media exposure constant, and the libel unfettered. Blacks think they are owed. Whites do too much to oblige them.”

Um, ever hear of Westboro Baptist Church of Topeka, Kansas? That’s a hate-filled white church that is the target of ceaseless protests against their ceaseless protests and the target of constant negative media exposure. Do those gay haters think they are owed? In other words, what’s your flippin’ point l’il Chucky?

By Terri

June 2, 2008 9:09 AM | Link to this

It just amazes me how white people can sit here and judge someone because of where they go to church. Senator Obama stated that he also left the church because he didn’t want the church and it’s 8,500 members to be subjected to constant ridcule and gotcha politics. News reporters calling people in hospice and stealing bulletins. What church does John McCain or Hillary attend? You probably don’t know because you all are so busy trying to bash Obama for his religious affiliations. As mentioned above, Hillary can spew assination remarks and the meida ignores that. He was damned if he stayed there, now he is being damned for leaving. Make up your mind folks.

By DaveD

June 2, 2008 9:16 AM | Link to this

Let’s talk about the “private prayer sessions” held at the white house between your former “talibangelical” leader Ted Haggard and Dubya. There is nothing that even comes CLOSE to that Jim.

If you want to talk about the character of a man…all one needs to look directly at is the one you voted into office TWICE. A horrible speaker, who lies over and over with that stupid smirk on his face. If that was the BEST the GOP had to offer for 8 years….it shows why Faux news became Number one. People are truly morons…yet those that vote for the gop are the just that much dumber than the average idiot.

Who’s a better VP choice for your gop ticket: Haggard, Craig, Foley? You have to admit they’re all pretty good! ;-)

By Eric

June 2, 2008 9:18 AM | Link to this

Obama’s religous preference is not the issue here. The real reason for all of the media publicity Obama and his church are receiving is the supposed problem many people with the good ole boy mentality seem to think that a persons skin pigmentation or lack of certain body parts will make a difference in how this country is maintained. I believe the true fact of the matter is this country needs fresh blood in office desperately male or female, black or white or for that matter any color. People need to realize this is a new era, the past is just that the past, let it go, there is no room in this day for it. So get over it. Grow up and try making a decision that will benefit the Nation not your own personal bigoted beliefs. Per a statement made earlier about hopeful thinkers and people fooling themselves, perhaps you need to quit fooling yourselves and realize that the world has changed and you refuse to acclimate to those changes. The people who have clung to the idea of oppression and segregation need to have an extra cup of coffee to get their heads straight so that they may understand better that time has changed and wounds that they and their ancestors had made are healing.

By George Washington

June 2, 2008 9:20 AM | Link to this

HEADLINE IN URINAL READS: “CHILD KILLED BY ICE CREAM TRUCK” - So remember kiddies, Ice Cream kills, but not reliably….Church snobber is all the Repukes have, the senile McCancer Face is too stupid to remember his lines….Like Reagan in his last years, only slower….

By Darnell the typing Monkey

June 2, 2008 9:26 AM | Link to this

What candidate goes to WBC of Topeka because that sounds just as unacceptable as BO’s pastor’s rants. Stay with the subject Darnell.

By George Washington

June 2, 2008 9:26 AM | Link to this

Woodenhead be too stupid to do a compare and contrast, so as always, George is here to help:

Obama………………McCancerFace Smart………………Dumb Tall……………….Short Thin……………….Fat Sane……………….Insane Reasonable………….Fanatic Seasoned……………Burned Toast Honest……………..Liar

By Charles

June 2, 2008 9:26 AM | Link to this

Darnell:

I have some advice. Read about Spartacus, a white slave who led a Roman uprising. It will give you a break from your NAACP / Rainbow Push / SCLC talking points which submit that only black African decendants were slaves. The best thing about Spartacus: he wasn’t sold into slavery by his own people for cheap molasses and rum like your ancestors were.

By Carol

June 2, 2008 9:26 AM | Link to this

This lastest triage of Obama’s former church is a set up. I believe that Hillary set the whole thing up, having the priest say those things to be captured on video and spewed all over Youtube and the news. People do you think that a church will willingly have a priest to say such things and put their church under more fire from the public? NO! this is an under handed snake in the grrass works of Hilllary and camp…Just think about it. She is trying everything she can to make Obama unfavorable. She even said she’s waiting out for him to be assassinated! Why is that not the hot topic instead holding a man for another man’s words….Come on this is insane. Obama can’t control what another person says no more than you or I can.

By Alvin

June 2, 2008 9:28 AM | Link to this

You call him a racist.His mother is white he was raised by his grandparent and his mother in Hawaii. His father is from Kenya was not really in his life,but since he has some Black blood in him he is this militant Black man.You guys need to get over your fears.If you have a drop of Black blood in you body all a sudden you are tainted. This is the year 2008 and still all I see in here is the fear and hate .People are still judge by the color of their skin (SAD).

By Alvin

June 2, 2008 9:28 AM | Link to this

You call him a racist.His mother is white he was raised by his grandparent and his mother in Hawaii. His father is from Kenya was not really in his life,but since he has some Black blood in him he is this militant Black man.You guys need to get over your fears.If you have a drop of Black blood in you body all a sudden you are tainted. This is the year 2008 and still all I see in here is the fear and hate .People are still judge by the color of their skin (SAD).

By tradamerica

June 2, 2008 9:28 AM | Link to this

“Church is the last place that any kind of hatred should be heard.”

amen

By Curious Observer

June 2, 2008 9:29 AM | Link to this

Where were all these scornful people when predominately white fundamentalist churches were engaging in the “Southern Strategy” and using the church to promote political ideology and voting rallys? In fact, these churches still do. I suppose they never heard anything from the pulpit except the need to show love and accommodation toward minorities.

Sure, you’re all fair-minded and non-racist. And as soon as my pig starts flying, I plan to be wealthy.

By tradamerica

June 2, 2008 9:29 AM | Link to this

“Church is the last place that any kind of hatred should be heard.”

amen

By Whatever Man

June 2, 2008 9:29 AM | Link to this

The bigger question is - are we concerned about this large congregation who seemingly acts like wild children any time someone insults the USA or white people? The ones getting air time are merely the voices of what is clearly a large group of black people who hate America and white people. Is that concerning to anyone? What is the difference between them and the KKK? Both use religion as a cover to their hate-filled speech. Both are senseless and worthless but most importantly - dangerous. Think of the kids growing up in that church. Racism is an issue that won’t die in America because people won’t let it - on either side. Haters breed haters enough at home, no need to do it at church.

And the comparison between living in Alabama and Obama attending this church is a nice attempt but not the same. It is much easier to change where you drive on Sunday than where you live and work. So in theory it is a nice try but reality says that changing churches, especially in this day and age, is as easy as deciding on which fast food place to go eat at.

To me there are many troubling aspects of Obama but the most glaring hypocritical aspect is that he has built his following on “Change” and not doing politics as usual. But just like a wounded animal, when hurt you do what is most primal. Hurt by a church of 20 years, leave it. Hurt by people you call friend, leave them. And it makes sense, but the cause and effect relationship show it is all about politics. Stay with the church and the people long enough to get where you need to get and then dump them when they pull you in a different direction. Can’t wait to see if he’ll divorce his wife if she keeps saying stupid things.

Obama is politics as usual. He’s a slick, black version of Bill Clinton but his policies are going to be much more damaging. But who knows? If the democrats hurt his chances enough, he might leave the party. After all, he stands for change you know.

By peter

June 2, 2008 9:30 AM | Link to this

Wright didn’t say those things in one freaky sermon. He said them over 20 years, while Obama sat, listened, and for all we know, screamed amen along with the rest of them. He picked this church, went there for 20 years and now claims that adult choice of church is not important in deciding if he should be prez. Obama, you must think we are really stupid.

By George Washington

June 2, 2008 9:32 AM | Link to this

Hey Barb, you never did answer my question about UVA….

By Whatever Man

June 2, 2008 9:33 AM | Link to this

The bigger question is - are we concerned about this large congregation who seemingly acts like wild children any time someone insults the USA or white people? The ones getting air time are merely the voices of what is clearly a large group of black people who hate America and white people. Is that concerning to anyone? What is the difference between them and the KKK? Both use religion as a cover to their hate-filled speech. Both are senseless and worthless but most importantly - dangerous. Think of the kids growing up in that church. Racism is an issue that won’t die in America because people won’t let it - on either side. Haters breed haters enough at home, no need to do it at church.

And the comparison between living in Alabama and Obama attending this church is a nice attempt but not the same. It is much easier to change where you drive on Sunday than where you live and work. So in theory it is a nice try but reality says that changing churches, especially in this day and age, is as easy as deciding on which fast food place to go eat at.

To me there are many troubling aspects of Obama but the most glaring hypocritical aspect is that he has built his following on “Change” and not doing politics as usual. But just like a wounded animal, when hurt you do what is most primal. Hurt by a church of 20 years, leave it. Hurt by people you call friend, leave them. And it makes sense, but the cause and effect relationship show it is all about politics. Stay with the church and the people long enough to get where you need to get and then dump them when they pull you in a different direction. Can’t wait to see if he’ll divorce his wife if she keeps saying stupid things.

Obama is politics as usual. He’s a slick, black version of Bill Clinton but his policies are going to be much more damaging. But who knows? If the democrats hurt his chances enough, he might leave the party. After all, he stands for change you know.

By Whatever Man

June 2, 2008 9:33 AM | Link to this

The bigger question is - are we concerned about this large congregation who seemingly acts like wild children any time someone insults the USA or white people? The ones getting air time are merely the voices of what is clearly a large group of black people who hate America and white people. Is that concerning to anyone? What is the difference between them and the KKK? Both use religion as a cover to their hate-filled speech. Both are senseless and worthless but most importantly - dangerous. Think of the kids growing up in that church. Racism is an issue that won’t die in America because people won’t let it - on either side. Haters breed haters enough at home, no need to do it at church.

And the comparison between living in Alabama and Obama attending this church is a nice attempt but not the same. It is much easier to change where you drive on Sunday than where you live and work. So in theory it is a nice try but reality says that changing churches, especially in this day and age, is as easy as deciding on which fast food place to go eat at.

To me there are many troubling aspects of Obama but the most glaring hypocritical aspect is that he has built his following on “Change” and not doing politics as usual. But just like a wounded animal, when hurt you do what is most primal. Hurt by a church of 20 years, leave it. Hurt by people you call friend, leave them. And it makes sense, but the cause and effect relationship show it is all about politics. Stay with the church and the people long enough to get where you need to get and then dump them when they pull you in a different direction. Can’t wait to see if he’ll divorce his wife if she keeps saying stupid things.

Obama is politics as usual. He’s a slick, black version of Bill Clinton but his policies are going to be much more damaging. But who knows? If the democrats hurt his chances enough, he might leave the party. After all, he stands for change you know.

By Harry Coverston

June 2, 2008 9:33 AM | Link to this

The question he’s never answered is how and why he sat there for 20 years listening to the Rev. Jeremiah Wright’s brand of anti-Americanism.

Perhaps for the same reason that many of us sat through years of listening to subtle white racism from our own pulpits. Perhaps for the same reason many of us continue to sit listening to not so subtle messages of sexism and homophobia today. And perhaps for the same reason many of us lent our silent endorsement to misanthropy confused for religion and militarism confused for patriotism by our ongoing presence.

I see this column as little more than projection, frankly. And I see the ongoing attacks on Obama through his pastor as little more than proxy racism. Those of us who are the beneficiaries of unearned privilege in a white dominant society are probably not terribly anxious to own up to that fact and find endless creative ways to avoid it.

By Branden Wilhelm

June 2, 2008 9:35 AM | Link to this

obama and clinton always fight like cats and dogs. they are both as stubborn as the stupid moron that is president now. they refuse to know when to quit and that’s what is going to drive this country out of sorts

By jbmlaw

June 2, 2008 9:35 AM | Link to this

Our friend Darnell @ 9:09 hit the nail on the head. What would we think of John McCain or Hillary Clinton if he/she attended Westboro Baptist Church of Topeka, Kansas? That is the perfect analogy for the personal history of Barack Obama. I think that is why the Obama story resonates.

By KnowItAll

June 2, 2008 9:35 AM | Link to this

To Terri @ 9:09

It amazes me how black people can sit there and watch reverse racist in motion—right in front of their eyes—and not be just as outraged at is as racism against them.

You’ve GOT to have your head in the sand or up your buff to think Obama left the church to save the members. He left the church to salvage his political ambitions! (along with his Christian credentials and “unifier” label. You don’t listen to that tripe for 20 years and it not become a part of you (and his family).

Believe me, I am no one to defend Hillary, but she was CREAMED on national TV for an entire weekend over her RFK assassination remarks, so don’t lay that one on us. We aren’t as dumb as you think.

We also aren’t dumb enough to think Trinity is the only black-hate church. For goodness sakes, I have seen it on TV on the public access channels in Atlanta!

Make up my mind?? You got it!! I wouldn’t vote for Barrack H. Obama for president if he were the only candidate because I simply don’t trust the man and have ample justification not to.

Go ahead, Terri—call me a racist. I fully expect it.

By Eric

June 2, 2008 9:37 AM | Link to this

Here we go again with Al and Jesse comments. Here is a scoop for you people that feel these two guys speak for the entire African American culture….. They do not. So get over it. People are tired of the status quo and want new leadership. If it comes in a different package than the one’s that we have grown accustomed to, then so be it. God Bless America!

By chris

June 2, 2008 9:38 AM | Link to this

f off honky

By GMAN

June 2, 2008 9:38 AM | Link to this

Poor Peter, From what source did you obtain what was said over 20 years? The sound bites that you have heard came from one sermon. Please enlighten me with actual facts.

By Darnell

June 2, 2008 9:38 AM | Link to this

Chucky, I saw Spartacus, starring Kirk Douglas. Why don’t you go watch Super Troopers, it will give you a break from pleasuring yourself to pictures of Moms Mably. And, as far as sticking with the subject, it seems like in response to L’il Chucky’s riff, Westboro is a pretty fair analogy, so the typing monkey can stfu and gfy. Have a great day, monkey. Hopefully, it will be your last.

By jbmlaw

June 2, 2008 9:38 AM | Link to this

Dear Carol @ 9:26, would you call it a vast left-wing conspiracy?

By Manny

June 2, 2008 9:41 AM | Link to this

A famous preacher said something seemingly horrid. And he caused a lot of political people to ostracize him and even caused his death.

He said “Unless you eat the flesh of the Son of Man, you have no life in you.” His name was Jesus.

His cousin, another preacher called the religious and political establishment a “Bunch of snakes.” (John the Baptist.

Jesus also said that “Except a Man be born again, he cannot see the Kingdom of God.”

Jesus said many controversial words, and became a political liability. I mean, why do you think he died on a Cross?

By Copyleft

June 2, 2008 9:41 AM | Link to this

The right-wing desperation is fun to watch. “Obama’s church… Obama’s church…” it’s all they’ve got on the man, and they’re flogging it for all they’re worth, hoping it’ll be enough to stop the revolution.

Too bad, losers. You’ve already lost, and a black man is our President. Suck it up!

Oh, and it’s always nice to see JBM repeating his tired claim that “Obama has no policy,” no matter how many times he’s been shown the details of Obama’s platform over and over and OVER again. With that kind of mindless, repetetive bleating, you’d be a natural for talk radio, JBM.

(snicker)

Ahh, it’s great to be a REAL American, and not a pathetic loser Republican!

By Alice Goldsmith

June 2, 2008 9:42 AM | Link to this

I am just worried why did Obama stay in that hate filled church for 20 years? I attend a Methodist Church and if I heard such things I would be gone in a” NEW YORK minute”. That is FAST. I support Hillary. Alice G.

By Bill in NC

June 2, 2008 9:42 AM | Link to this

For good old fashioned conservative values vote for Bob Barr!

By Missing the Obvious

June 2, 2008 9:44 AM | Link to this

Curious Observer,

If you find that John McCain or Hillary Clinton attends a church that preaches the black-centric, hate-America diatribes, like the Trinity United CHURCH OF CHRIST, let us know. Otherwise, you’re just making excuses for a guy who drank this Kool-aid for twenty years and has suddenly found his AWOL conscience.

Live it, wear it, own it.

By Edward

June 2, 2008 9:46 AM | Link to this

It’s a matter of error in judgment; 20 YEARS WORTH!!

No presidential hopeful can ever live down a judgment mistake like Obama’s audacity to be member and ecstatic supporter of such a racist and inflammatory organization and its leaders.

NOBama, No way, Not Ever!!

McCain has my vote if Obama is the candidate.

By Darnell

June 2, 2008 9:46 AM | Link to this

That’s a pretty much irrefutable point you make jbmlaw. But that’s not the one Charles was making. Or maybe he was, just not as plainly. I wasn’t sure what his point was and that’s why I challenged him.

The fact is, Obama is receiving lots of negative blowback from his choice of church. Those on the Republican side are spinning it one way and those on the Democratic side are spinning it the other. That’s the way the game is played, regardless of the races of those involved, n’est pas?

By MC

June 2, 2008 9:46 AM | Link to this

You can always tell non-church goers. They don’t understand that your church IS a reflection of your own views.

By CB

June 2, 2008 9:47 AM | Link to this

DaveD, you tickle me. GW is honestly FAR from the worst President in history. I won’t go into specifics, but take a peek at the exploits of Stonewall Jackson if you don’t believe that worse things have been done in the White House than many claim have occurred in the past eight years. And you don’t get to complain about the GOP (it’s an acronym, you capitalize it, btw) because, quite frankly, the Democrats did a simply wonderful job of digging up not one, but two candidates who were worse than GW. And now Obama terrifies me more than I dare to speak. If he steps into the White House, this country will be set back decades in international relations, domestic stability, and even the space race, which we have dominated for years. Please Hillary, light a fire under the right people and get that nomination!! - My $0.02

By Bob L

June 2, 2008 9:47 AM | Link to this

Anyone investigated McCain’s church? Hilary’s? I’m sure we’d find plenty more to talk about. Of course McCain went from a conservative Baptist to a liberal Episcopal. Anyone discussing that?

By GMAN

June 2, 2008 9:47 AM | Link to this

Poor Alice Goldsmith, from what source did you obtain what was said over 20 years? The sound bites that you have heard came from one sermon. Please enlighten me with actual facts.

By George Washington

June 2, 2008 9:48 AM | Link to this

Well, the field looks weak this year, so George is coming out of retirement to run for President: Vote for George Washington for President…….Honor thy father…

By Max Factor

June 2, 2008 9:49 AM | Link to this

My apologies to Three Dog Night…

Jeremiah was my minister. He was a good friend of mine. I never renounced a single word he said ‘Til I had to protect my behind….

By Jennie

June 2, 2008 9:50 AM | Link to this

I gently suggest you all read and re-read the comments posted by Eric and by Curious Observer. They are the only sane comments I have read in this useless, nasty exchange. I wonder why so many writings are filled with such hate? It appears to me that the finger-pointing people are in fact mirror images of what they are denouncing. Take a breath, smile, and move on, everyone!

By j davis

June 2, 2008 9:52 AM | Link to this

What’s not being reported is that Rev. Michael Pfleger was also a member of Obama’s campaign staff. I guess you want us to know only half truth.

By angry black man

June 2, 2008 9:52 AM | Link to this

Obama did what he had to do if he wants a chance at the white house. He understands whether he throws Trinity under the bus or not he is still a black man with a chance at the big seat, which some people have a problem with. So why do it? This entire ordeal hopefully will open the eyes of all blacks as to how things havent changed much over the last 40 yrs.

By Carol

June 2, 2008 9:53 AM | Link to this

@jbmlaw you bet it’s a consipracy..what else could it be? No one ever knew or could even imagine that a black man would make it this far in a race for the presidency. For Obama to make it this far with the support from all races, even people from other countries supports him, and if they could vote they would vote for him too.

By Ray

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

Not one candidate for president ever attended that wingnut church in Kansas. The analogy doesn’t fit.

By KGC

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

Probably the most cogent and concise commentary I have yet read on this matter.

Defenders of Senator Obama always talk about “context” and that these comments by Wright and Pfleger must be taken within said context. Well, I’d like to know what “context” could possibly exist that would justify or clarify these hateful verbal screeds. And just because these comments may have some logical context that would explain them makes them no more acceptable or less hateful. Just because I’m white doesn’t mean I don’t know racist and sexist hatred when I hear it. To say (as Senator Obama has said) that I, as a white person, have “an untrained ear” is not only insulting, it’s just plain wrong. My ear is plenty well-trained, Senator. It knows hatred when it hears it, and I don’t need you or any black person, only guilty white person, telling me that I just don’t understand. It is you, sir, who apparently doesn’t understand, and in November it is going to cost you the election. In short, you have a big, big problem, and that is acquitting yourself of charges that you sat quietly in the pews of a church listening to racist rants and, in your silence, tacitly endorsed that hatred.

By Jonathan Field

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

“He’s a slick, black version of Bill Clinton” — wow, that’s an amazing compliment. Sounds like just about the best thing I could imagine for the US right now. The Clinton presidency was the best of my life, and the Bush presidency has been the worst.

I’ll never understand how anyone watching the practical effects of each administration on this country could possibly feel otherwise. Only self-delusion could have someone thinking the current GOP leadership was a good thing.

Here’s my hope: Obama becomes the president, and returns the US to a place of respect in the world and my heart. P** on that if you want, but what in the world are you hoping for?

By dumbamericans

June 2, 2008 9:55 AM | Link to this

dumb silly americans are at it again. Speculating about things that they know absolutely nothing about.

I have news for you Anyone who claims to be proud of this country in light of what this country currently stands for.

Every government official since 1913 has been a traitor. the ones who tried to make change were assasinated.

The constitution has been suspended and our civil liberties are under attack thanks to the unpatriotic act.

By Nudelman

June 2, 2008 9:56 AM | Link to this

This article is dead on. How could Obama have sat at the church for 20 years and said “Amen” to similar idiotic anti-White messages? Obama has no answer.

By Eric

June 2, 2008 9:56 AM | Link to this

Some of you people are funny as he**. If you feel Obama is not the man for the job, then you can simply not vote for him and be done with it. The pattern that I am seeing here on this blog and others is that people are searching for ways to convince themselves not to vote for Obama. What’s next? Someone will find out that his grandmother didn’t pay her property taxes in 1956. She is labelled a tax cheat and no doubt if she is a tax cheat, Obama has to be one too. LOL!

By Carol

June 2, 2008 9:57 AM | Link to this

I don’t appreciate hate, the church is no where such comments are to be made. Sad thing, some churches have become so engaged in politics that it has lost what they are supposed to be doing and that is saving souls not playing politics.

By Quentin

June 2, 2008 9:58 AM | Link to this

Just the same old racist Jim Crow south rearing its ugly head.No attempt to understand Wright, or his tradition, or the grounding of his style in the prophetic books of the Bible. No attempt to balance the bad of Wright by showcasing some of his wonderful sermons. Just ugly racist diatribe. I pray to God that as President Mr. Obama can lead us beyond this sort of thing.

By MLK was correct

June 2, 2008 9:58 AM | Link to this

MLK was correct - judge him by the content of his character

he lives in a house paid for by a bribe

he sits in a pew for 20 years listening to hate speech

he serves on a board with someone who bombed the us capitol

vote for hillary or mccain

By Mar

June 2, 2008 10:01 AM | Link to this

Nice, you managed to justify characterizing Reverent Wright with a sound-byte by using another sound-byte. Way to report. If you need to sit through 300 hours of video to get a 5-minute anti-American sound-byte, you might want to wonder whether Wright is really anti-American.

Or you can write a polarizing right-wing article. Your choice.

By Janet - A True Conservative

June 2, 2008 10:02 AM | Link to this

By definition that institution in Chicago cannot even be called a church. It is a political, biased, tax exempt, hate-filled, self-praising organization. The point of this being that Obama even affiliated himself with the ideas of that racist organization scares the average American who believes in democracy. Would you vote for President of this great United States if he had attended and participated in the Westboro Baptist “Church” of Topeka, KS. I know I wouldn’t. It is definitely not a matter of white or black. It is the ability to represent all people without prejudice. Obama, with his background and influence from his environment of Chicago CANNOT do this. Just as someone from Westboro could not. John McCain is a man of integrity and character and no one can deny that. Thank God at least someone running for President is a man of morals and ethics. He has never practiced Al-taqiyya.

By Janet - A True Conservative

June 2, 2008 10:02 AM | Link to this

By definition that institution in Chicago cannot even be called a church. It is a political, biased, tax exempt, hate-filled, self-praising organization. The point of this being that Obama even affiliated himself with the ideas of that racist organization scares the average American who believes in democracy. Would you vote for President of this great United States if he had attended and participated in the Westboro Baptist “Church” of Topeka, KS. I know I wouldn’t. It is definitely not a matter of white or black. It is the ability to represent all people without prejudice. Obama, with his background and influence from his environment of Chicago CANNOT do this. Just as someone from Westboro could not. John McCain is a man of integrity and character and no one can deny that. Thank God at least someone running for President is a man of morals and ethics. He has never practiced Al-taqiyya.

By weglarz

June 2, 2008 10:02 AM | Link to this

I just want to know, when obamas grandmother and family comes to visit, will they put mud huts on the WHITE house lawn? And I heard rev wright wants to change the name of the WHITE house.

By Thom

June 2, 2008 10:03 AM | Link to this

(Quote)By Eric “All of this has come about because of statements people other than Obama have made in public. Hell, I lived in Alabama, a state known for its violent racism, for 24 years…a personal choice, I might add. And racism hasn’t rubbed off on me.”

But did you attend Klan meetings for 20 years?

By Jennie's A Cross-Dresser

June 2, 2008 10:04 AM | Link to this

Jennie the Cross-Dressier @ 9:50 AM

Neither their comments nor your drivel warrants a re-read. Their BS & your BS is the same no matter how pleasantly it’s purveyed.

Live it, wear it, own it.

By Bob

June 2, 2008 10:04 AM | Link to this

This country has my head spinning.We will alway put to the side of good,for the copious love for gossip,and making judgements about someone who had never spoken any of these words,that came from the mouth of someone other than his own.If this person get a ticket for speeding,should someone else be blamed.I don’t think so,and if you do,I really feel sorry for you,because someday your going to be judged,and I’m sure you wouldn’t want to be held hostage because of what someone else said or did.

By KGC

June 2, 2008 10:06 AM | Link to this

An excellent and fair commentary.

What always strikes me is the insistence by Obama supporters that we consider “context” as we judge these hateful verbal screeds. Exactly what “context” is it that would possibly justify this sort of hate!? And even if the proper context could be established, are the comments any less hateful and hurtful? racist and sexist?

As to the assertion (as even Senator Obama has made it himself) that there are those among us who suffer from an “untrained ear” and can’t possibly appreciate what only appear to be racist and sexist comments, I can only respond that my ear is trained just fine, Senator, and, like obscenity, I know it when I see it and hear it, context be damned.

In short, Senator Obama is in a bad way. He sat in the pews of that church, and in his twenty years of silence tacitly approved of and gave his imprimatur to the likes of Wright and Pfleger and their hatred. Many, many Americans seem to feel that requires some explanation. To date, the silence has been deafening.

By Tom

June 2, 2008 10:06 AM | Link to this

Wow, what comments. Guys, let’s be honest for a second here, ok?

First of all, I am a white man. I am a white man who knows first-hand that racism is alive and well in this country. I see it every day.

I see many white people speak and act overtly racist. Strangely, I see a lot of black people speak and act overtly racist towards whites. The funny thing is, I think the racist black people think that there are a lot more racist white people than there really are. And don’t even get me started on our country’s racist policy towards muslims. It was really nice of us to “liberate” the Iraqi people… as a matter of fact, so far we’ve “liberated” about a million of them of their lives.

Many people here have made the point that Obama is under a magnifying glass that no white candidate would have to endure; they are right (remember, we’re being honest).

Folks, we need to get past this. No one is going anywhere, black, white, muslim, hindu, whatever. It’s time to level the field and let the past be the past.

To the black people who think they’re owed something special: Surprise! You’re never gonna get it. Too many black folks are living successful lives on their own terms for anyone to believe that some racist redneck is holding YOU back.

To the white people who think that blacks are ruining the country: Surprise! You’re blaming other people for your own laziness. Get off your butt and make your life happen.

By Bob

June 2, 2008 10:06 AM | Link to this

This country has my head spinning.We will alway put to the side of good,for the copious love for gossip,and making judgements about someone who had never spoken any of these words,that came from the mouth of someone other than his own.If this person gets a ticket for speeding,should someone else be blamed.I don’t think so,and if you do,I really feel sorry for you,because someday your going to be judged,and I’m sure you wouldn’t want to be held hostage because of what someone else said or did.

By Bob

June 2, 2008 10:06 AM | Link to this

This country has my head spinning.We will alway put to the side of good,for the copious love for gossip,and making judgements about someone who had never spoken any of these words,that came from the mouth of someone other than his own.If this person gets a ticket for speeding,should someone else be blamed.I don’t think so,and if you do,I really feel sorry for you,because someday your going to be judged,and I’m sure you wouldn’t want to be held hostage because of what someone else said or did.

By Mark

June 2, 2008 10:07 AM | Link to this

Whites have been bending over backwards to accomodate the black vindictiveness. Blacks can say whatever the hell they want to say and whites let it go. Let a white man say something negative about a black and all of a sudden, you’re the pariah, rode out of town. This needs to stop and the whites really should stop pandering to the B.S. that racist blacks throw out.

Blacks are voting for Obama at a 90 percent plus rate. Do you really think they give a crap about his politics or about his color?

Now that’s real racism for ya.

By KGC

June 2, 2008 10:08 AM | Link to this

An excellent and fair commentary.

What always strikes me is the insistence by Obama supporters that we consider “context” as we judge these hateful verbal screeds. Exactly what “context” is it that would possibly justify this sort of hate!?And even if the proper context could be established, are the comments any less hateful and hurtful? racist and sexist?

As to the assertion (as even Senator Obama has made it himself) that there are those among us who suffer from an “untrained ear” and can’t possibly appreciate what only appear to be racist and sexist comments, I can only respond that my ear is trained just fine, Senator, and, like obscenity, I know it when I see it and hear it, context be damned.

In short, Senator Obama is in a bad way. He sat in the pews of that church, and in his twenty years of silence tacitly approved of and gave his imprimatur to the likes of Wright and Pfleger and their hatred. Many, many Americans seem to feel that requires some explanation. To date, the silence has been deafening.

By Cammi317

June 2, 2008 10:08 AM | Link to this

J Davis - the priest was removed as part of Obama’s campaign staff MORE than 2 weeks before his outburst occurred. The sermon was probably payback for same.

By AnnD

June 2, 2008 10:09 AM | Link to this

I am extremely disappointed with Mr. Obama. I wanted to like him, but even more important, at this point I don’t trust him. I believe he is what was once described as a “social climber” whose raw ambition causes him to talk down to Americans with his flowery speech, and who has a track record of being more interested in identifying with the “in crowd” (Exelon, oil companies, watered down legislation for cronies, unethical campaign practices in 1996, using lobbyists until a month ago while pretending not to, etc., than he is with improving the safety and quality of life for ALL Americans. I am truly afraid for the country because I believe he is insincere and extremely self centered. I do not identify him with FDR or JFK who both went out on big limbs to care for their country. And yet he is extremely popular no matter how unethical he is. I am so disappointed.

Now democrats are stuck with a clever politician who has a track record of deviousness and deceit and whose ego knows no boundaries.

I am also concerned that Obama’s “frenzied” followers will vote for him anyway and that John McCain will be left behind for his “out of style” beliefs. I wonder how many others feel this way.

By Ray

June 2, 2008 10:13 AM | Link to this

Jonathan Field,

“Obama returns us to a place of respect in the world”? Mr. Field, I am hoping for an America that is not in danger from an outside threat that puts mine and my grandchildren’s future in doubt. I am hoping for a president who can deal with all of the hate that most other countries have for us. I am hoping for a president with BALLS who is willing and able to let the rest of the world know that we will not put up with that s* and are on fair notice that if they do, they will pay the price.These people will not respond to being charmed to death, Mr. Field or have you not been tuned into what’s going on the Middle East? They want your head on a pole, Mr. Field and if you want to keep your head where it should be, instead of up your buff, you better hope that we have a president that can respond to any threat and do with finality and precise vision. That is the only language that these idiots understand, or have you not noticed?

By Susan

June 2, 2008 10:16 AM | Link to this

I have never seen Mr. Wooten so carefully attack any other politician for their church membership. I have never seen the AJC ask catholic politicians to retire their membership because of the pedophile scandal. I have never seen Jewish politician asked to resign fro a synagogue for ties to Zionist groups in Israel who break the law and regularly make racist statements about Arabs. I have never seen Wooten denounce politicians with ties to Falwell or Hagee (Why would McCain lean on his endorsement knowing his politics?)

By RinSF

June 2, 2008 10:17 AM | Link to this

Pure Republican spin. They found the most outragous person in Obama’s acquaintance used them to attack Obama as being a radical black man. Complete nonsense. And while we’re looking at candidates actual opinions, let’s look at what the repubs have done to our budget, economy, reputation, middle class, and world for eight years? We are not electing Rev. Wright: but do you really want to elect any republican after that?

By AnnD

June 2, 2008 10:18 AM | Link to this

I am extremely disappointed with Mr. Obama. I wanted to like him, but even more important, at this point I don’t trust him. I believe he is what was once described as a “social climber” whose raw ambition causes him to talk down to Americans with his flowery speech, and who has a track record of being more interested in identifying with the “in crowd” (Exelon, oil companies, watered down legislation for cronies, unethical campaign practices in 1996, using lobbyists until a month ago while pretending not to, etc., than he is with improving the safety and quality of life for ALL Americans. I am truly afraid for the country because I believe he is insincere and extremely self centered. I do not identify him with FDR or JFK who both went out on big limbs to care for their country. I am so disappointed.

Now democrats are stuck with a clever politician who has a track record of deviousness and deceit and whose ego knows no boundaries. The republicans have a gentleman who is perceived as out of touch with America’s direction.

I wonder how many others feel this way.

By Diggy Zazz

June 2, 2008 10:19 AM | Link to this

Trinity is a hater’s church.

By T

June 2, 2008 10:21 AM | Link to this

Who cares?

By weglarz

June 2, 2008 10:21 AM | Link to this

President McCains first job,

track down Democrats, and have

someone pound brains into their

empty heads.

.

By George Washington

June 2, 2008 10:22 AM | Link to this

Well, George hates Repukes, Neocons, and the Clintons…as well as all sitting and formerly sitting members of congress, and George cannot stand liberals, they just whine too much fer George’s nerves….Thank god fer the Wigs and the Torries….

By Gee

June 2, 2008 10:22 AM |