At the top of Wednesday’s CBS "Early Show," co-host Harry Smith teased an upcoming segment on Barack Obama becoming the first black nominee of the Democratic Party: "And the question, one of the many questions of the morning, is America really ready to elect a black man president? We have a brand-new CBS poll. The numbers will amaze you." At that point, co-host Julie Chen added: "You know who I would love to see handle that question?...Senator John McCain. It would be very interesting to see how he would handle that question." Smith agreed: "Yeah." Does Chen think McCain will say no?
Later, co-host Maggie Rodriguez provided a segue to the story when she explained that: "I came to town [New Orleans] last night to interview Senator John McCain as he kicked off his general election campaign. Here in this city where so many voters are African-American. That's an important demographic for the Senator to woo, especially now that the Democratic nominee is African-American."
Smith began the segment by once again wondering: "Barack Obama is the first African-American to secure the nomination of a major party. So that brings up the question, will race be a major factor in the November election?" He then quoted a new CBS News poll on the issue: "Brand-new CBS News poll. A question that's been asked for some years now, is America ready for a black president? And as of yesterday, the answer was 68% said yes. Go back to just 2000. The answer was only 38%."
Smith then talked to Democratic strategist Joe Trippi, Republican strategist Michael Murphy, and liberal professor Michael Fauntroy. He first got reaction from Trippi: "I think what Barack Obama's done is every day he's gone out there, proven his medal, proven where he is on issues and withered these attacks and everything, he's proven that he is ready. And that's made a lot of Americans say, 'you know what? Maybe this could happen.' I think it's a pretty amazing thing. It's a great, great day for the party and the country."
Michael Murphy offered a similar sentiment: "I think America absolutely is. I think it just got kind of litigated in the primary. And Barack Obama historically, I think, has made the case and he won, and he won big." It’s hard to see how one could argue Obama "won big" after such a drawn out primary fight.
Michael Fauntroy was more skeptical: "Well, I think the country is ready, but it should also be noted that so far we've just talked about a Democratic primary and there's still a general election to run. And so while the poll is reflective of registered voters, what we really look for in polls is likely voters. And so to my way of thinking, it's still an open question, though certainly we're moving in the right direction."
Smith then suggested that the question was in no way loaded and worried that people were lying to pollsters: "And certainly the way the question is asked is not particularly -- it doesn't have any hooks on it, doesn't have any barbs on it. And that whole phenomena we very well know about, about people saying in polls one thing, getting inside the polling booth and doing something completely opposite."
Of course, this not the first time Smith has wondered if America has overcome its racism, as he did on January 7 when he asked: "Is America finally color-blind?" after Obama won the Iowa caucus.
Here is the full transcript of the segment:
7:01AM TEASER:
HARRY SMITH: And the question, one of the many questions of the morning, is America really ready to elect a black man president? We have a brand-new CBS poll. The numbers will amaze you.
JULIE CHEN: You know who I would love to see handle that question?
SMITH: Um-hm.
CHEN: Senator John McCain. It would be very interesting to see how he would handle that question.
SMITH: Yeah.
8:00AM TEASER
HARRY SMITH: In just a moment, a political roundtable discussion of the issue of race in the race for the White House.
8:01AM SEGMENT:
MAGGIE RODRIGUEZ: I am now in front of St. Louis Cathedral. I can hear the bells tolling to mark the 8:00 hour as I speak. It is just one of the many treasures to be discovered here in New Orleans. I came to town last night to interview Senator John McCain as he kicked off his general election campaign. Here in this city where so many voters are African-American. That's an important demographic for the Senator to woo, especially now that the Democratic nominee is African-American. With more on that, let's go back to New York and Harry.
HARRY SMITH: Alright, thanks very much, Maggie. Last night, American history was made when Barack Obama claimed the Democratic Party's nomination for president.
BARACK OBAMA: America, this is our moment. This is our time. Our time to turn the page on the policies of the past. Our time to bring new energy and new ideas to the challenges we face.
SMITH: Barack Obama is the first African-American to secure the nomination of a major party. So that brings up the question, will race be a major factor in the November election? Joining our roundtable discussion, Joe Trippi, a CBS News political consultant. He managed Howard Dean's 2004 campaign. You wanted us to mention that or not? Alright, Michael Murphy is a Republican campaign strategist. He has a list of successes as long as your arm. And Michael Fauntroy is a professor at George Mason University and author of 'Republicans And The Black Vote." Good morning to you all.
JOE TRIPPI: Morning.
MICHAEL MURPHY: Morning.
MICHAEL FAUNTROY: Good morning.
SMITH: I'm going to put something up on the screen. Brand-new CBS News poll. A question that's been asked for some years now, is America ready for a black president? And as of yesterday, the answer was 68% said yes. Go back to just 2000. The answer was only 38%. What do you think? Is America ready for a black president, Joe Trippi?
JOE TRIPPI: I think they are. I think we are as a country. I think what Barack Obama's done is every day he's gone out there, proven his medal, proven where he is on issues and withered these attacks and everything, he's proven that he is ready. And that's made a lot of Americans say, 'you know what? Maybe this could happen.' I think it's a pretty amazing thing. It's a great, great day for the party and the country.
SMITH: Yeah. Michael, what do you think?
MICHAEL MURPHY: I think America absolutely is. I think it just got kind of litigated in the primary. And Barack Obama historically, I think, has made the case and he won, and he won big. So I think it will be discussed. It'll be out there as, you know, a dimension of the race. I hope it's not obsessed on by the media or anybody else because I think that's an insult to the country and to Obama. But I think the primary's done a lot to prove and those numbers back it up that absolutely --
SMITH: Right, right. Michael Fauntroy?
MICHAEL FAUNTROY: Well, I think the country is ready, but it should also be noted that so far we've just talked about a Democratic primary and there's still a general election to run. And so while the poll is reflective of registered voters, what we really look for in polls is likely voters. And so to my way of thinking, it's still an open question, though certainly we're moving in the right direction.
SMITH: And certainly the way the question is asked is not particularly -- it doesn't have any hooks on it, doesn't have any barbs on it. And that whole phenomena we very well know about, about people saying in polls one thing, getting inside the polling booth and doing something completely opposite. Here's my question. The Democrats have a nominee now, right, or presumptive nominee. Are they sitting around this morning saying, now what? I mean if you're in -- Terry McAuliffe and company, who was here just an hour ago, they were out partying last night, I didn't ask him if it was an Irish wake, what are they talking about this morning?
MURPHY: Well, I think the Obama people are talking about how to frame up the general election against McCain and how to give Hillary Clinton enough respect that she can finally fold her tent and get out of the candidate business which she seems to be a little slow to be doing.
SMITH: Right.
MURPHY: So there's a lot of party diplomacy going on, with, I think, Axelrod and the strategy people taking a look at McCain and the general election.
SMITH: Do they have to offer her the -- the vice presidency? Do they -- do they have to?
TRIPPI: No. But again the problem here is --
SMITH: Should they?
TRIPPI: The problem for them is if she continues to push this aggressively, that creates a bigger problem. They want to get on to McCain like they've been trying to do for the last several weeks. I mean in their view this thing's been over for a while but they can't say that because they want to be polite about this and Mike said --
SMITH: They've had this basketful of superdelegates that they've been tossing out --
MURPHY: I think she's going to try. In my personal view, and I don't give a lot of Democratic advice, is the best thing Obama could do would be to say no to prove he has a backbone.
SMITH: But does she -- does he have to have her because of all those states like Ohio and Pennsylvania, and all those places, those blue-collar white voters, those older women that have been slow to come to his support, does he actually need her?
FAUNTROY: Six months ago I would have thought it would have been a complete disaster to have her on the ticket. But the reality is, when you look at the electoral map and where she -- where he's weak and where she's strong -- it makes a pretty strong case for her being on the ticket. Now, does he have to offer it to her? I'm not sure. But I do believe -- I do believe that of all the names that have been bandied about as potential Democratic running mates, her case is just as strong as anyone else.
SMITH: Maybe stronger. Real quick.
MURPHY: I don't think you pick the symbol of what you ran against. And it's unproven she can deliver anything. She got votes, but whether those votes follow her --
SMITH: Right.
MURPHY: Or were about other things, is open to question.
SMITH: Very quickly.
TRIPPI: There are other, Sebelius, the governor of Kansas. There are other women and other Democrats out there.
SMITH: Nobody in the country knows who she is. Hello.
TRIPPI: That could be good. That could be good for Obama.
SMITH: Oh. [Laughter]
TRIIPPI: No, in terms of -- in terms of having -- carrying on the new -- his campaign of a new -- a new politics of change.
SMITH: Sure, yeah, yeah. Real quick, real quick.
FAUNTROY: Well I would just say that, you know, it hurt her candidacy, her potential running mate is a problem, but she's a known entity.
SMITH: Right. Maybe too well known in the end, right. Which is what --
TRIPPI: But she could also -- it could be a strong ticket --
SMITH: Thank you all very much. Very interesting stuff. I think we're only just getting warmed up here. Yeah.
—Kyle Drennen is a news analyst at the Media Research Center.





















Editor at Large
Comments Policy
let's see...a black man just
Wed, 06/04/2008 - 17:40 ET by mister josephlet's see...a black man just got nominated for president. what kind of stupid-ass question is this?? HELLO! it only proves CBS news anchors think we're a bunch of stump-dumb flyover people...
McCain
Wed, 06/04/2008 - 17:44 ET by iveseenitall95% of blacks will vote for Barry. McCain need not even try to "woo" them. That ignorant racist vote goes to Barry because of the color of his skin.
Who is Barry Ostero?
NEVER,NEVER trust a "liberal"
This type of attitude is
Wed, 06/04/2008 - 17:49 ET by TheGingermanThis type of attitude is exactly what will lead to an Obama presidency.
Look
at what you just said. You can't go around calling '95% of black'
'ignorant racist[s]'. It makes you look racist and angry.
Forget
race. McCain has a great opportunity to win, but if your type of
rhetoric becomes prevelant, it will simply energize the Obama base,
unite the Dems, and guarantee Obama takes the White House.
Obama
has a high number of weaknesses, lack of record, and repeated
inconsistencies. Plenty of ammo without having to descend into
this kind of debate.
Since my voting eligibility
Wed, 06/04/2008 - 18:08 ET by TruthMongerSince my voting eligibility in 1982 I've never voted Democrat - but I may just have to vote for Obama - for one thing Obama has never screwed me over like RINO McCain has time and time again...
But primarily I would very much like to send a message to the Repub "leadership..."
The Obama presidency more and more appears to be the medicine that might just cure our FUBAR RNC...
Unfortunately, the RNC's
Wed, 06/04/2008 - 18:14 ET by sublight68Unfortunately, the RNC's response to such a message would be to tack even further left.
I was hoping that after the mid-term losses in '06 the party would heed the lesson and reclaim its conservative roots. Instead we ended up with McCain.
I'm not even close to
Wed, 06/04/2008 - 18:18 ET by TheGingermanI'm not even close to deciding yet. Simply watching the show.
One
thing I'm seeing more and more, is this type of anger toward black
voters, and I foresee no good coming from it. Obama is seen as a
hero, a messiah figure as everyone on here likes to call him. To
make a racial attack, will only serve to bolster his presidential
bid.
As I said before, I'm a fan of John McCain the man,
but not certain about John McCain the politician. On the other
hand, Obama hasn't shown me much except what appears to be empty
hype. So I don't know yet. I'm reserving judgment for a
later date.
"One thing I'm seeing
Wed, 06/04/2008 - 18:47 ET by Clear thinker"One thing I'm seeing more and more, is this type of anger toward black
voters,"
Pray tell, where are you seeing this anger???
"Abstain from McCain"
Attitude? Gingerman
Wed, 06/04/2008 - 18:33 ET by iveseenitallTo chide me for telling the truth is just the kind of "attitude" which will lead to defeat. And, frankly, I'm sick and tired of being called a racist for telling the truth. Why is it the truth from the right is called hate speech, while the lies from the left are called free speech? I repeat, 95% of blacks who vote will vote for Obama. This is fact. They will do so because he is black. This is also fact. You want to deny it, go right ahead.
Who is Barry Sotero?
NEVER,NEVER, trust a "liberal"
Because you're wrong. You
Wed, 06/04/2008 - 18:34 ET by TheGingermanBecause you're wrong. You aren't telling the truth. In
fact, you're just making things up. That's not the truth.
You can't call 95% of black people ignorant racists simply because you believe they will vote for Obama.
Do
you know these people? Do you know that they are voting for Obama
simply b/c he's black and McCain's white? How do you know?
Since you don't know, since it would be impossible for you to know, you
are simply generalizing an entire group of people in an angry fashion,
which makes you look bitter and kind of hateful.
Gingerman
Wed, 06/04/2008 - 18:43 ET by iveseenitall95% voted against Hillary. NINETY-FIVE PER CENT! Are you purposefully blind? When has ANY group ever voted like that? And I'm the racist? Please!
NEVER,NEVER trust a "liberal"
Here's a question: Isn't
Wed, 06/04/2008 - 18:45 ET by balboaHere's a question: Isn't this whole equation a little skewed for a minority? Isn't there an overwhelming sense of duty as a minority to support your fellow...minor, as much as you can?
Personal
Wed, 06/04/2008 - 19:10 ET by iveseenitallIf the greater good is sacrificed for the personal "me", democracy will never work. This is at the very heart of the question. We have successfully divided ourselves into separate groups. The whole has been sacrificed for the good of individual parts. It should be the other way around. It breeds resentment. It doesn't work in families; it will never work for the country. For 95% of any group to vote this way demonstrates the great divide which "liberalism" has caused.
Who is Barry Sotero?
NEVER,NEVER trust a "liberal"
I think it's too simplistic
Wed, 06/04/2008 - 19:41 ET by balboaI think it's too simplistic to just say that liberalism is the sole cause for something like this.
And when the minority doesn't think the greater good includes them (right or wrong), they tend to stick to themselves.
Bal
Wed, 06/04/2008 - 20:28 ET by iveseenitallYou are exactly right. When they believe, through constantly being told so, that they are not part of the whole, no matter what is done for them, you have a divided nation. And it's surely not the conservatives who are drumming it into their heads. Revernds Wright, Pfleger, Shapton, and Jackson come to mind.
Who is Barry Sotero?
NEVER,NEVER trust a "liberal"
the very mention of skin
Wed, 06/04/2008 - 19:56 ET by TruthMongerthe very mention of skin color here is a major problem for the human race
Obama's campaign is about being black and basically nothing else - that's obvious from the MSM promotion
he's completely unqualified to be POTUS - the only reason he is being considered is because of his skin color
I'veseenitall, you have forgotten
Wed, 06/04/2008 - 19:14 ET by jefflebowskiwhite people are only capable of being racists. Blacks and libs are above that. Ginger has had PC beaten into him so he'd rather not acknowledge the obvious...that blacks are voting for Balack Osama because he is black! Also, Ginger wouldn't admit that blacks can be racist. Not Rev. Wright, Sharpton, Jackson, any number of black politicians, etc.
I agree with you. I don't care what Ginger and his lib buddies call me. But the good thing about this election is that white people are starting to speak their mind about the obvious state of the races.
Jeff Lebowski
www.angrywhitedude.com
Jeff
Wed, 06/04/2008 - 19:46 ET by iveseenitallThank you. And as I've stated many times here, some of the biggest racists, homophobes, sexists, etc. are the "liberals" I've worked with all my life. The hypocrites sing an entirely different tune in private from what they say in public. For example, many blacks I've known hate gays, hate them with a passion. It's a human thing, but "liberals" will never admit it; they'd rather blame those nasty white conservatives.
Who is Barry Ostero?
NEVER,NEVER trust a "liberal"
they are about to present
Wed, 06/04/2008 - 19:59 ET by TruthMongerthey are about to present their official candidate for POTUS based solely on his dark skin color - he has absolutely no qualifications for president of anything other than maybe his own little small business at this point...
He's not even running his own campaign...
Gingerman...
Wed, 06/04/2008 - 18:43 ET by Clear thinkerSince I don't live under a rock, I know for certain that race will be an issue in this race. In fact, it already is. But have no fear Gingerman your candidate J. McCain will still win in November. Anmd he will win with the help of the racists in the Democrat party.
"Abstain from McCain"
isia and Ct... Ginger
Wed, 06/04/2008 - 18:55 ET by bigtimerisia and Ct...
Ginger Baby is a trolling troll...it has been obvious to me for the last couple of hours anyway...
Have fun guys...
"Never murder your opponent when he is committing suicide." ~ W. Wilson
We seem to be getting a lot
Wed, 06/04/2008 - 18:59 ET by Clear thinkerWe seem to be getting a lot of those lately.
Don't we have bouncers at the door weeding out the trolls?
"Abstain from McCain"
Ct... LOL...Oh heck I
Wed, 06/04/2008 - 19:05 ET by bigtimerCt...
LOL...Oh heck I guess we get to play around with them some, they are fun-filled entertainment at times, depending on each individual posters mood at the time that is...before the big boys step in.
"Never murder your opponent when he is committing suicide." ~ W. Wilson
bt... I wouldn't mind so
Wed, 06/04/2008 - 19:15 ET by Clear thinkerbt...
I wouldn't mind so much if these folks came here with logical arguments. But when they say dumb things it's very easy to fall into the trap of playing with them like they are children. Problem is... my granddaughter is smarter than most of them.
But you are right, they do add to the entertainment value.
"Abstain from McCain"
Problem is... my
Wed, 06/04/2008 - 19:22 ET by bigtimerProblem is... my granddaughter is smarter than most of them.
Ct...so right you have to be!
"Never murder your opponent when he is committing suicide." ~ W. Wilson
BT
Wed, 06/04/2008 - 19:26 ET by iveseenitallYou are right. He is a troll who is demonstrating what we will be seeing more of. Any criticism of Barry, any criticism of blacks who vote en masse for him, and YOU are a hate-filled "racist". I hope many don't fall for the canard. Moreover, "racist" doesn't bother me at all. Too long. Crying "wolf" doesn't work anymore with me.
Who is Barry Ostero?
NEVER,NEVER trust a "liberal"
Crying "wolf" doesn't work
Wed, 06/04/2008 - 19:31 ET by bigtimerCrying "wolf" doesn't work anymore with me.
Me either isia...
"Never murder your opponent when he is committing suicide." ~ W. Wilson
You just wait. Over the
Wed, 06/04/2008 - 17:46 ET by FoolicanYou just wait. Over the next few decades it'll be:
I don't think we'll survive for that long to know the answers to any of those.
I'm going to go ahead and
Wed, 06/04/2008 - 20:09 ET by ThatDudeI'm going to go ahead and stretch some current facts to answer those questions. Barry is being cheered for his young age, so I would not be surprised if the dems attempt to lower the presidential age requirement (despite lengthening life expectancies.) McCain was born in Panama! As you will hear over and over again during this election. Let's take their criticism over that a bit add hypocrisy to it and I would not be surprised to see the dems put up an illegal immigrant candidate. Communist? Ahem, we had 2 communist candidates already. The more socialist one has been swept under the carpet for the time being. If dead men can vote, then why can't a dead man be elected? Polar bears are more important than people as recent legislation and propaganda will clearly explain to you. There's alot we could learn from them. Adolf Hitler, Fidel Castro, and Ahmedinejad...just look at our candidate on the left. Socialism is socialism.
As a side note, I think America has been open to electing a black president for years. I'd vote for a candidate of any race or gender so long as they have experience, good ideas, and knows how to actually accomplish them. The current black (I refuse to say African-American for anyone who isn't from Africa) candidate is lacking on all three. Race should not be a factor at all here. I fear how many people will be voting based on their own racial prejudices(either side of it) or on silly sensationalism.
Yes ... Alan Keyes
Wed, 06/04/2008 - 17:49 ET by BodiniYes ... Alan Keyes would make a fine black President. But, in the words and spirit of George Jefferson ... I believe BO is a "Zebra."
Or how about:
Wed, 06/04/2008 - 17:50 ET by needle‘Is America Really Ready to Elect as President a Complete Non-entity, Who Has NO Significant Accomplishments to His Credit?’
Impunitas semper ad deteriora invitat.
Will race be a factor?
Wed, 06/04/2008 - 17:51 ET by Big WallyGeez I don't know. If 95% of blacks vote for Obama and 70% of whites vote for McCain who will be called racists?
Whites, of course
Wed, 06/04/2008 - 18:04 ET by DEVILDOCMOMyou know blacks cannot be racist. At least not in the eyes of the media. However, to answer the question, not this black man, not ever.
DEVILD...I guess the
Wed, 06/04/2008 - 18:56 ET by Clear thinkerDEVILD...
I guess the media never got the memo... If a good candidate of color with strong conservative credentials ran for POTUS, the Repubicans would work very hard to get him elected. On the other hand, if a bad candidate of color with solid liberal credentials ran for POTUS you can guarantee Republicans would work against him.
The problem is... the media and the Dems would never believe it, as they are too wrapped up in hating us Conservatives..
"Abstain from McCain"
This actually makes me
Wed, 06/04/2008 - 20:28 ET by ThatDudeThis actually makes me wonder one further than the original topic. Is America ready to elect a minority Republican to the POTUS? As we've seen in the past, any minority with a R next to their name is subject to harsh criticism and declared a betrayer.
Too many seem to ignore the obvious when it comes to electing minorities to high positions. They are a MINORITY, hence it seems odd for them to be overly represented. I'd also be willing to generalize that it makes sense for more old white men to be politicians simply because a much larger percentage of them possess the required education, experience, and desire. Till the percentages are closer, I can't help but be critical of less qualified candidates gaining office due to the favorable bias of their minority status.
Let the better candidate win, and if that candidate is a purple hermaphrodite, then so be it.
YES, spot on
Wed, 06/04/2008 - 23:37 ET by DEVILDOCMOMalthough I will vote for McCain, I would love to see a real conservative for President...no matter what color. I am sure we all remember what the media did to Condi; can you imagine if the media did the same to michelle ma belle?
bho is such a weak empty candidate I could never consider him.
Is America really ready to
Wed, 06/04/2008 - 17:53 ET by sublight68Is America really ready to elect a black man president? Yes.
Is America ready to elect Barak Obama president? I certainly hope not.
Oh my God...I wish they
Wed, 06/04/2008 - 17:59 ET by balboaOh my God...I wish they would STOP ASKING THIS QUESTION. I wish a black female would win so we wouldn't have to ask either question ever again.
bal... It would have to
Wed, 06/04/2008 - 18:57 ET by Clear thinkerbal...
It would have to be a black bi-female.
"Abstain from McCain"
A few points on this love fest.
Wed, 06/04/2008 - 18:02 ET by DEVILDOCMOMOh Harry, Harry...many of us remember Sebelius, the governor of Kansas re her anti CCW stance and from her lies regarding the tornado in Greensburg, KS; AND I am not even from Kansas. In addition, does this quote sound odd to anyone else: "proven his medal, proven where he is on issues and withered these attacks and everything"...either NB typed "medal" and "withered" wrong or the reporter misspoke these words. Don't you prove your mettle and weather attacks?
Planting ideas...
Wed, 06/04/2008 - 18:03 ET by ScrapironThe Lame Stream Media is full bore at planting the idea that if you don't vote for Hussein you are a racist. Between now and Nov millions will bite into the propaganda. Millions of simple minded democrats have been playing the game for months already.
Old, Retired and glad of it.
Yeah, they're "framing the
Wed, 06/04/2008 - 18:55 ET by forestYeah, they're "framing the discussion" in terms of race to set up anyone who opposes Obama for questions of racism.
BINGO! "Abstain from
Wed, 06/04/2008 - 19:02 ET by Clear thinkerBINGO!
"Abstain from McCain"
i say bring it on
Wed, 06/04/2008 - 23:44 ET by red_dragon311i say bring it on the more times the better, untill the American people are so sick of hearing it will finaly be a non issue.
the Obama tactic of "thats the kind of politics Americans are tired of" can sure as hell be flipped by this issue
McCain jst needs the teticular verility to call them out on it....
SHOW SOME BALLS JOHN
A government big enough to give you everything you want, is strong enough to take everything you have.
-Gerald Ford
No right answer
Wed, 06/04/2008 - 18:04 ET by oregon_jiim"You know who I would love to see handle that question?...Senator John McCain. It would be very interesting to see how he would handle that question." Smith agreed: "Yeah." Does Chen think McCain will say no?
They want to ask McCain that question because there is no right answer for McCain. If he says no, it sounds like he is accusing the people of racism. If he says yes, it sounds as if he is ready to concede the election.
"an endorsement of communism is an endorsement of slavery"
Here's how to handle that question...
Wed, 06/04/2008 - 18:58 ET by Iowa Boy...reject the premise of the question in the first place.
Typical member of the MSM: Senator McCain, do you think America is ready for a black President?
Sen. McCain: I find that question to be dispicable and rooted in the idea that you think Americans would choose their next President on the basis of race. Shame on you. I believe the American people will choose our next President based on the candidate's policies and principles and not the color of his skin.
It would be a home run. Of course, that would never happen. My Cubs have a better chance of winning the World Series than Senator McCain actually hitting back like that.
"I'd rather be governed by the first 2,000 people in the Boston
telephone directory than the 2,000 faculty at Hardvard Unversity." -
William F. Buckley Jr.
Perhaps It Has
Wed, 06/04/2008 - 21:53 ET by CGatton"...that would never happen"
Really? I ask you this, "how would you know if it did or didn't?" You really think the nets would allow such an answer to make it by the 5 second editing delay? (Or whatever the delay is these days) Such an answer would be lost on the cutting room floor, unless it was given in a live, televised debate, when there would be too many witnesses actually present to alter it...though the soundbites would be heavily edited.
V/R
Clyde
"...the aspirants to tyranny are either the...men of the state, who in democracies are demagogues,... or those who hold great offices, and have a long tenure.." - Aristotle, Politics, c350BC
DUDE best june start
Wed, 06/04/2008 - 23:46 ET by red_dragon311DUDE best june start since 1908 it's an omen!!!!!!!
GO CUBS GO
A government big enough to give you everything you want, is strong enough to take everything you have.
-Gerald Ford
Wouldn't "high yellow" be
Wed, 06/04/2008 - 18:07 ET by BuffNBoneWouldn't "high yellow" be a more accurate description of him?
"Fighters are fun but bombers make policy"
All this 'first black'
Wed, 06/04/2008 - 18:20 ET by MidAmericaAll this 'first black' stuff would mean more if they had a real black not a half-black raised by whites.
If they really want to find out if the country is ready for a black President then go all the way and select a black Vice-President nominee. If the democrats feel obama can only be elected if he is paired with a white what does that really say about their view of blacks?
The racism is primarily oozing from Obama
Wed, 06/04/2008 - 18:31 ET by NBFThe real question is whether America is ready for a president who thinks there is a "typical white person".
I'll make you a deal, Harry Smith..
Wed, 06/04/2008 - 18:32 ET by Gary HallI'll make you a deal, Harry Smith..
If you, Katie Couric, Brian Williams, Chris Matthews, Matt Lauer, Geroge Stephanopoulos, Bill Moyers, Anderson Cooper, Fareed Zakaria, Paul Krugman, Charlie Gibson, Jonathan Alter, Kieth Olbiedog, Diane Sawyer, Ronald Brownstein, Andrea Mitchell, Candy Crowley, Richard Engle, Ann Curry, Suzanne Malveaux, David Wright, Lesley Stahl... and so on -- you get the picture ---
-- if you all quit your jobs and apologize to the voters for your years of trying to shape their views on the issues in the mold of how you see things, I'll vote for Obama.
For 8 Years America has been Ready for a Black Sectry of State
Wed, 06/04/2008 - 18:50 ET by JayTeeBut the Historic, Magic, Special Moment was Ignored by the MSM ...So I'm Ignoring the Magic being Claimed by the MSM, and the History that has been "Announced" as just so much BS.
I'm voting against the Media of Today, the Slanted, Dis-honest, unprofessional, Biased reporting that passes for Today's "MSM", I'm going to Defeat the media, I'm voting Republican.
Black President
Wed, 06/04/2008 - 18:56 ET by BarrackAmerica's ready for a black president. It's just not ready for a communist, socialist, liberal, black victimologist with a cast of nefarious characters in his past...
Nice...
Wed, 06/04/2008 - 19:00 ET by DaieSo, if you don't vote for Obama you're a racist?? Do they ever think that maybe I am not voting for Obama because I don't agree with his politics?? I wish the media would get a clue. It has nothing to do with his race. Most of us evil Republicans wouldn't care if the person was white, black, purple, green or blue as long as we agreed with their politics.
A better question may be
Wed, 06/04/2008 - 19:19 ET by jefflebowskiIs America ready to accept CBS as a credible news source? By their ratings, it looks like the answer is a strong NO.
I am one of the most vocal posters when it comes to race issues but I'd gladly vote for a black person for President if they shared the same political and moral values that I hold.
I won't vote for a liberal con man. Obama either!
Jeff Lebowski
www.angrywhitedude.com
America AIN'T READY!!!
Wed, 06/04/2008 - 19:24 ET by BarrackIn fact, I can think of a slew of black candidates I'd take over McCain..
For starters, J.C. Watts and Michael Steele
Me too. I for one am
Wed, 06/04/2008 - 19:38 ET by bigtimerMe too.
I for one am writing in Keyes name if it isn't on the ballot...I have followed him for years and years now...(although not lately) matters not to me, I know what he believes.
"Never murder your opponent when he is committing suicide." ~ W. Wilson
Is CBS Ready To Hire...
Wed, 06/04/2008 - 19:36 ET by Crash... a Bald Anchor?
For Pete's sake "Harry" if I didn't know better you sound like a democrat with your bigoted question. Are you sure it isn't you who have a problem with a black president?
Won big? I think not
Wed, 06/04/2008 - 19:41 ET by nkviking75Murphy: I think, has made the case and he won, and he won big.
Won big?
He only won by a couple of hundred delegates, and he lost a lot of the late primaries. It took the primaries of all 57 states ;-) to finally "close the deal", as we kept hearing.
Also... If the MSM wants a fair test of whether America will elect a black man, one thing they need to do is shut up about race. Another is to quit their shameless cheerleading for the man. Both taint the results, if a referrendum is what you want.
When you put the clowns in charge, don't be surprised when a circus breaks out.
Sure Smitty
Wed, 06/04/2008 - 20:33 ET by Eileen Rightjust not a glib, "sleazy," "dishonest," "slimy," "scumbag", socialist, racist, terrorist appeasing, snake-oil salesman!!!
Politicians and diapers should be changed often, for the same reason.
Let Me Put This In a Different Light
Wed, 06/04/2008 - 22:24 ET by CGattonBear with me please.
I have an elderly aunt....since I'm just shy of 60, you can guess how old she is....who is very alert, oriented, and mobile. She is very representative of her group, who always vote, and always vote Democrat. Last Friday, her attitude was, "I'm not going to vote this year, if Obama wins the primary, and I won't vote for McCain. Hillary should have won and I won't vote for a black man."
Yesterday, after reading that Hillary was going to get the VP nod...never mind that it was just speculation...her tune had changed to, "Well, if Hillary is going to be the Vice President, then I guess I'll vote for Obama., and hope he gets assassinated quickly."
One of my sons...the flaming liberal...is her caretaker, for those things she can't do herself, and he comes home after hearing this and says, "Dad, how can they [she and her peers] be so cavalier about assassinating the president?"
As I have said here before, there is an undercurrent of racism that resides still in this country, deep and hidden for the most part. It will affect and help shape this election. Why it lurks can be debated, argued, or just plain talked about forever. The fact is, it exists, and whether it is because of the partitioning of society so the Dems can rule, or whether it is because of a smoldering core left over from desegregation days doesn't matter...at least to this election.
Bottom line...I don't think a black can be elected on his own merits today. Forty percent of the voters will reject him automatically, because of 'ideology,' and claim they would have voted for him if he had only belonged to their party, and fifteen to twenty percent will reject him covertly, doing it because he's black, but in the privacy of the voting booth, no one can see what's really inside. If you thought polling was bad the last two presidential elections, look out this time.
V/R
Clyde
"...the aspirants to tyranny are either the...men of the state, who in democracies are demagogues,... or those who hold great offices, and have a long tenure.." - Aristotle, Politics, c350BC
CG... Wow... You may be
Wed, 06/04/2008 - 22:29 ET by bigtimerCG...
Wow...
You may be very well right...I will take that to mind.
Funny how some of us can't even imagine/fathom that...know what I mean?
Thanks for the info from other parts of the world...
"Never murder your opponent when he is committing suicide." ~ W. Wilson
The Road Not Taken
Wed, 06/04/2008 - 23:44 ET by CGatton"...how some of us can't even imagine..."
I guess the point I didn't make, is that if people like this group consider it acceptable for them to get what they desire by some arbitrary person committing an assassination, there are probably more than one actually planning such an event.
V/R
Clyde
"...the aspirants to tyranny are either the...men of the state, who in democracies are demagogues,... or those who hold great offices, and have a long tenure.." - Aristotle, Politics, c350BC
CG... I understood. I
Wed, 06/04/2008 - 23:51 ET by bigtimerCG...
I understood.
I just find it sad.
"Never murder your opponent when he is committing suicide." ~ W. Wilson
Clyde
Wed, 06/04/2008 - 22:40 ET by BlondeThe total reality of your post has me shaking my head.
In a way that is trying to clear my head....but I can't shake it. It is REALITY.
All I can say is....we live in very intersting times.
Thanks for your post. It kind of cleared up a few things for me.
David Gregory, do you know which damn network you lie for? ~ Uncle Jimbo, @Blackfive
Hard Left
Wed, 06/04/2008 - 23:15 ET by the strugglerIs America really ready to have the Liberal News Media picking the president?
ts...they have been doing
Wed, 06/04/2008 - 23:19 ET by bigtimerts...they have been doing it for years, no decades....when possible.
"Never murder your opponent when he is committing suicide." ~ W. Wilson
Snort, Snicker
Thu, 06/05/2008 - 06:18 ET by kilrodYall seem to forget slick billy willy was our first "black president" though his African heritage is questionable??
(GRINS) kilrod
Remeber, only two defining forces have ever offered to die for you, Jesus Christ and the American Soldier
Hopefully your tagline is
Thu, 06/05/2008 - 07:49 ET by BuffNBoneHopefully your tagline is meant to include sailors, marines, and airmen as well.
"Fighters are fun but bombers make policy"
Bombers Make Policy
Thu, 06/05/2008 - 08:53 ET by kilrodAbsolutely, it includes all branches of the Armed Forces and you can probably include Poilicemen and Firefighters. I say Thank-You and the Lord Bless You, to all of you.!!
Hey, i like the logic in yore tagline as well. Have a good-un.
kilrod
Remember, only two defining forces have ever offered to die for you, Jesus Christ and the American Soldier
"You can nuke it. You can
Thu, 06/05/2008 - 09:22 ET by ricklail"You can nuke it. You can bomb it into a parking lot. But, you don't own it until a 19 year private with a rifle is standing on it." US Army Infantry.
“A debate is a conflict which clarifies a position. A dialogue is a conversation which compromises a position.” –John E. Ashbrook, The New Neutralism II, P. 7
Yo, ricklail
Thu, 06/05/2008 - 09:32 ET by kilrodYore point is well taken and it bears it's on logic and common sense.!!
(GRINS) kilrod
Remember, only two defining forces have ever offered to die for you, Jesus Christ and the American Soldier
At the Naval command where
Thu, 06/05/2008 - 10:11 ET by misterbee241At the Naval command where I worked the CO was an A-6 pilot in Viet Nam. His deputy was a Naval aviator who flew F-14's and who had a part in the movie Top Gun. The CO had a bumper sticker on his car that said "Fighter pilots make movies, bomber pilots make history." I thought that was so cool.
There is none so blind as they that won’t see. Jonathan Swift 1667-1745
That XO, he wouldn't have
Thu, 06/05/2008 - 10:18 ET by NL207That XO, he wouldn't have been CMDR C.J. "Heater" Heatley by any chance?
America's Ready, But it's NOT Obama!
Thu, 06/05/2008 - 08:04 ET by ChasvsA qualified Black Candidate would have no problem getting elected in America today.
That IS NOT BH Obama! He is the least qualified Black politician in America today! He'd be right for Cuba or Russia since his Marxist ideas would fit rioght in there.
Of course the Press will cry Racism if he isn't elected. The FACT that he isn't qualified wouldn't even enter their minds! They are convinced that he's the ONE!
God Save the Union!
Earth to Harriet Smith:
Thu, 06/05/2008 - 09:23 ET by SickofLibsThe Democrat nominee is African-American? Gee, I thought he was half white, half black. You sound like a racist.
"Lying to pollsters"? Hey you naive moron, when someone enters the sanctity of the voting booth, they can do whatever THE F__K they want regardless of what they told some pollster. You apparently think this should not be allowed... so who the hell appointed you The Moral Compass?
I keep forgetting he's half
Thu, 06/05/2008 - 10:07 ET by misterbee241I keep forgetting he's half black, half white, whatever.
There is none so blind as they that won’t see. Jonathan Swift 1667-1745
actually, if you stop and
Thu, 06/05/2008 - 13:48 ET by mister josephactually, if you stop and think about it, he's a true Africian-American. Father was from Kenya, mother was from America (a 'daring, adventurous non-conformist' as i heard her described), so by that, he's truly an African-American. as for his blackness, that's another story...
I have no problem with a
Thu, 06/05/2008 - 10:06 ET by misterbee241I have no problem with a black man as president, as long as he isnt a big nanny government Marxist/socialist. It's what the man stands for that is anathema to me not his skin color. But skin color is all liberals can see. Phooey on them.
There is none so blind as they that won’t see. Jonathan Swift 1667-1745
That's not the question, Harry
Thu, 06/05/2008 - 11:25 ET by krendlerThe question isn't "Is America Really Ready to Elect a Black Man President?". America has probably been ready for that for more than 20 years, at least. But sorry, nobody was going to vote for two complete nutcases like Jesse Jackson and Al Sharpton.
The very politically incorrect but much more germane question is "Will America elect someone president who isn't anywhere close to being qualified simply because he IS BLACK?"
The guy has served half of one term as a senator - spending most of that 3 years running for president. Missed it: What are his accomplishments again? And from that, we have this nationwide hysteria, fueled by an adoring media.
For most Americans, race has nothing to do with this. For Obama supporters and his surrogates in the media, this is about nothing BUT race. That was never more evident the other night when Obama clinched the nomination and it all came gushing out, e.g., "History", "African American", "What would Lincoln think" "Never thought I'd see it". That's all they were talking about.
And these dopes have the audacity to sit there judging, from their enlightened vantage point, whether the unwashed masses have finally gotten over the race issue.
Nauseating to watch these sanctimonious a-holes pontificate.
Bill Hemmer at Fox News Election HQ...
Thu, 06/05/2008 - 12:38 ET by Parker1227...asked the same stupid question yesterday.
Its a leading question. A Daily Kos, race-baiting gotcha.
So everyone out there who votes for McCain - YOU ARE A RACIST! Got it?
This is the kind of anti-color blind racial politics we have come to expect from the shameless left.
"Is Obama qualified? Who cares? He will redeem us from the sins of our fathers."
In other words, if your great, great, great, great grandfather was slave holder - then YOU are personally responsible for this tragedy. Strike that. If you have even the same tinge of skin color as the above mentioned slave holder (even if your family came to America in the 20th century) YOU are guilty.
On the other hand, if you were one of the 3/4 of politicians and voters who approved of the Iraq war when we went in, you are not responsible for changing your mind and betraying the Iraqi people by high-tailing it out of there - because guilt and responsibility doesn't apply to the present - only to the past.
This is long
Thu, 06/05/2008 - 20:56 ET by kilrodBut it's worth the read.
Remember, only two defining forces have ever offered to die for you, Jesus Christ and the American Soldier