"**Warning: That link will actually bring up the FOX News website on your computer."

Thanks for the warning. I'll pass.

Yup,

Not gonna go to Fox.

One day, Bill O'Reilly will be gone, and I hope all his viruses go with him.

knifewrench @ 5:

This will hurt BHO, hard to say how much. For sure Obama will never be able to attach McCain over Hagee and various other wacky fundies. And my guess is that, rather than merely be beaten in Pennsylvania, he'll get drubbed now.

And of course, Fox will be playing Jeremiah Wright sermons on a continuous loop till November. (Granted, it'll get watched more than some of their current programming.)

The country at large simply cannot comprehend any statement with the words, "God damn America..."

I mean, "attack McCain," not attach. Ugh...

The only thing I heard him say that I didn't agree with was Godd*m the USA. This country is run by rich white folks.
What about these 2 nut jobs that McCain has welcomed their support. I'm not hearing anything about that.

McCain the Liar @ 3:

I didn't think the statements were that bad. I know they piss off the right but who cares.

The problem is, the right is trying to turn him in to a card carrying Muslim and people are so damn stupid they don't follow anything in govt. but the gossip.

"He's drawn attention as the result of some inflammatory and appalling remarks he made about our country, our politics, and my political opponents."
I thought this country had free speech...!
Country-it's a Bush mess
Politicks--most are liars
Opponents---put in prison--and throw away the keys

His pastor is right about 9/11 though isn't he ? chickens did come home to roost, it's called blowback

http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=-2476452190633032034&hl=en

The only spin I hear is from people that somehow are trying to blame someone else because Reverend Wright said "God Damn America". How is that any-one's fault but his own? That is only one of the many things he has said that are totally unacceptable.

I may say *od Damn the Bush Administration. And *od Damn the Government. I don't and won't say *od Damn America. That's over the line. And no support of any candidate should make anyone think it's acceptable language to be spoken in a church by a supposed man of God.

O'Reilly is a jerk. Nothing new there and nothing that excuses what Reverend Wright said.

RMHK @ 10:

McCain the Liar @ 3:

I didn't think the statements were that bad. I know they piss off the right but who cares.

The problem is, the right is trying to turn him in to a card carrying Muslim and people are so damn stupid they don't follow anything in govt. but the gossip.

Kind of hard to have him be a Muslim and then condemn him for attending the church of this pastor for over 20 years, wouldn't you think?

kenoshaMarge @ 14:

supposed man of God. man of a supposed god

Swashbuckler @ 16:

RMHK @ 10:

McCain the Liar @ 3:

I didn't think the statements were that bad. I know they piss off the right but who cares.

The problem is, the right is trying to turn him in to a card carrying Muslim and people are so damn stupid they don't follow anything in govt. but the gossip.

Kind of hard to have him be a Muslim and then condemn him for attending the church of this pastor for over 20 years, wouldn't you think?

Ah , you overestimate O'Reilly's audience. He's a (whisper)"secret muslim."

knifewrench @ 5:

This will hurt BHO, hard to say how much. For sure Obama will never be able to attach McCain over Hagee and various other wacky fundies. And my guess is that, rather than merely be beaten in Pennsylvania, he'll get drubbed now.

And of course, Fox will be playing Jeremiah Wright sermons on a continuous loop till November. (Granted, it'll get watched more than some of their current programming.)

The country at large simply cannot comprehend any statement with the words, "God damn America..."

And you can?

andy @ 12:

His pastor is right about 9/11 though isn't he ? chickens did come home to roost, it's called blowback

http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=-2476452190633032034&hl=en

Two wrongs do not make a right.

Swashbuckler @ 17:

truthhurts @ 15:

My God this is KO for Obama.

Which god is that?

In any case, it certainly isn't over for Obama...

It is not over for Obama!

The "damage" over at YoTube is 50% wing-nuts frothing at the mouth (OR-- nothing new), and the other half of the people saying, "If you think about it, what he said is true."

ted @ 23:

Let's be honest. This Jeremiah Wright thing certainly tips the balance, if not change the entire dynamics, meaning Obama will NOT be the next POTUS. Moreover, it will mean that no Dem will be the next POTUS.

I don't see any way out of this mess -- but am open to suggestions.

Wow, you are REALLY overblowing this thing. It's not like he got caught on an FBI wiretap arranging for a hooker...

27 dennis Says: bluegal-

How do you make this story about Bill O’Reilly? Statements made by the Rev. Jeremiah Wright are offensive to a great many people in this country and his relationship to Obama is a major story to more news organizations than just Fox or Bill O’Reilly in particular.

--->>When you work for the blog, you can make the story anything you want. Jealous???

--->>The story is about his conniption fits. Those who are most offended by this are probably the worst racists.

WRG, unfortunately Wright's statements will "piss off" far more than the right -- or at least enough more to be the difference whether Obama can win or lose the election (or the nomination for that matter).

Ryan @ 87:

ted @ 46:

reality, you're splitting hairs. Wright and Obama have been associated closely for over 20 years, Wright officiated at Obama's wedding, his kids' baptisms, and Obama has contributed much money toi Wright and the church over the years (Wright basically IS the church -- until now).

How in the heck can Obama now say he never knew Wright said these things at this late stage. This completely undermines Obama's credibility.

ted,

Keep grasping at those straws! Officiating a wedding and baptizing kids is what the minister of a church does. As others have said, these are a couple of sermons taken from the 20 year period Obama has been a member of the church. It is very plausible that Obama hasn't been witness to any such sermons. In addition, as soon as these sermons came to light, Obama immediately said that he disagreed with the opinions being expressed. I think we all know and love people whose opinions occasionally differ greatly from our own. Should I disown any friend who has ever said something I think was dumb or poorly informed? If I did, I'm pretty sure I wouldn't have any friends left.

Dude, keep trying but it isn't going to work.

His book was derived from Wright's sermon. Again, Wright didn't just come by these thoughts recently. Dollars to dougnuts a bunch more sermons are going to come back from ten or twenty years ago that reflect the same rhetoric. All during the time Obama has been a member.

And anyone who just sits on there hands while their "spiritual Mentor" preaches stuff they don't agree with is either weak , a hypocrite, or agrees. If your preacher "preaches" doctrine that your soul tells you is wrong, you leave that church. He did not.

THE REPORTS OF MY DEATH HAVE BEEN GREATLY EXAGGERATED..mark twain....his response to the paper's reporting of his demise.............This came to mind when reading Obama supporters here and elsewhere...but in reverse. The Obama fan club was all-abuzz yesterday with the good news that Obama was going on Keith O to kick some butt and take names......then came the apearance....and nada. I guess that they are stunned and not sure what to do next.....just looking for comparasions with history or other canidates. Well good luck, we have never been here before...as Hillary and Bill found out there is no protocol for expresidents stumping for their spouses as they run for president...it is easy to trip up when you are the first one doing something. Likewise, but in a loud way Obama proved how awkward it is for a black couple to present themselves to white and latino America....most black folk will understand the REv Wright and the nomenclature of the church. But the rest of the country has no reference point and are in a state of shock. Why David Axelrod did not prepare Obama for this is beyond me. Just the style of the church is vastly different...just watch a Mormon service, or Episcopalian, Southern Baptist.....Obama's church is reallly intense and a surprise............Then you add the actual words GOD DAMN AMERICA, AMERICA INVENTED AIDS TO KILL BLACKS, 9/11 WAS JUST CHICKENS COMIN HOME TO ROOST.......Obama people wake up.....the nation is buzzing about this....watch the polls in a week or so................JUDGEMENT ...Obama made so many seeches about just that..HIS IS SOOOO MUCH BETTER THAN HILLARY'S This is huge and growing on a grass-root level. and one more time...'cause the Obama team said nothing..people saw this attractive black couple that were well spoken and educated....and assumed episcopalian...black episcopalian.The public can be blaimed for their limited experience with their African American brothers and sisters.....but they ain't running for office......150 million raised by the Obama group and no dollars spent on how to market this handsome couple....Religion was always in play...amazing

reality @ 120:

somebody says that Hillary doesn't have a crazy pastor. I'd refer you to the documented anti-semitism of Billy Graham. I'm sure I can dig around and find crazy quotes from some of the pastors supporting her in New York too. This is just crazy. people are tired already. there is a war going and the economy is going down the toilet and yet we are going to spend all this time on this sh*T!

Her spiritual mentor was Re. Don Jones, a Methodist Minister. Billy Graham has counseled every President since Eisenhower, so Get off that stuff.

#367 my sister told me about an interview that Hillary did last summer..talking in depth about her faith....believe it or not it is on CBN.com and is an audio only...it will take 30 minutes out of your life...I was shocked that they were fair with her.....if anyone has an open mind..go and llisten.......it did not turn me into a true believer but I did learn something new.

douglas in oklahoma @ 368:

Hillary refers to LBJ and how a preisdent was needed to put into law what Martin luther King jr fought for.....Obama and company called herall kinds of names except a white woman..Bill Clinton makes a reference to Jesse Jackson in South Carolina...and now the Clinton machine is racist....just a week ago Geraldine Ferraro's words were being used by the Obama folk to claim a plot of racism by the CLINTON MACHINE......please....now Obama and co. wants fairness and depth of understanding...too llittle and too late.....the kind of game they have been engaged in is gonna bite 'em. The lies got so bad in the Carolinas...Tim Russert (TO cover his ass) said the PERCEIVED RACIAL DUST-UP BY THE CLINTONS...it was not true...Obama knows the Clintons have been pro-black for 40 years...Most all major black leaders around the country know this. So is does not matter and will not matter that Obama the the REV do not agree on most things. Obama has left the inference it is loud and clear...and the video is brutal..THIS IS ONE BELL THAT CANNOT BE UN-RUNG...................sorry kids ...there is little room for romance in politics...........

could you repeat that ,please.

Ryan @ 366:

The Realist @ 363:

Ryan @ 87:

ted @ 46:

ted,

Keep grasping at those straws! Officiating a wedding and baptizing kids is what the minister of a church does. As others have said, these are a couple of sermons taken from the 20 year period Obama has been a member of the church. It is very plausible that Obama hasn't been witness to any such sermons. In addition, as soon as these sermons came to light, Obama immediately said that he disagreed with the opinions being expressed. I think we all know and love people whose opinions occasionally differ greatly from our own. Should I disown any friend who has ever said something I think was dumb or poorly informed? If I did, I'm pretty sure I wouldn't have any friends left.

Dude, keep trying but it isn't going to work.

His book was derived from Wright's sermon. Again, Wright didn't just come by these thoughts recently. Dollars to dougnuts a bunch more sermons are going to come back from ten or twenty years ago that reflect the same rhetoric. All during the time Obama has been a member.

And anyone who just sits on there hands while their "spiritual Mentor" preaches stuff they don't agree with is either weak , a hypocrite, or agrees. If your preacher "preaches" doctrine that your soul tells you is wrong, you leave that church. He did not.

Have you read his book? I have! Obama makes very clear his views and they are about as far from angry and violent as you can imagine. I don't for a minute pretend to agree with the logic Wright uses in the disputed clips, but the fact of the matter is his overall message is that people should be more loving and treat each other better.

As to your second point, it has two problems. First, it assumes that these disputed sermons are representative of all of Wright's sermons when it seems pretty clear that they were picked specifically because they were contentious. Second, your claim doesn't jibe with history. How many Catholics have stayed in the church through things like the selling of salvation (which spawned Lutheranism) or the scandals with alter boys? It is not common for people disagreeing with some ideas expressed in their church (or even in their faith for that matter) to just up and leave.

No, i have not read his book and if that is his message then neither have you or any of the other hateful supporters who litter the blogs, as of late. If that is his message it has been counter-productive.

As to your point to my second point, You've made my point.

I was really undecided after Edwards dropped out, but when Obama, yes Obama, set out to turn the Clintons into racists, i made my decision. When the likes of Toni Morrison, Oprah and others referred to Bill as the first black President, everyone cheered until the real thing came along. Now, they are racist. give me a break. Obama's team was flawless in turning the Clintons into Plantation Owners. Only problem is, it ain't true. But that's Politics, unless ,of course, it is directed at Obama. Then its blasphemous.

Obama Bin Lyin'!

I understand why Obama would want to go to that church. Those people didn't look like they were falling asleep; and the churches I've been to weren't political & didn't spark any interest in the topic. The preacher was cool; and it's sad that in the political world we live in you have to denounce such 'truths' to stay in the race. Hillary Clinton is a pandering bitch, and I will take much pleasure in watching her fail. Peace.

I personally don't think Obama should hide from this. The American People need to realize to what extent their Country has acted on many occasions arrogant. We have done very great thing for the world and we have done some very bad things too. It is time we all realize that there are others in this world and what we do effects us all. I have traveled to many places in the world and I believe people are all just the same as us. We want health we want comfort, and we want our children to grow into a better world.

If Americans ever traveled the Mid East they would be shocked to find out how the average person lives there. Poor with no mobility, living in squaller, with the ruling classes oil money grinding them down on a daily basis. They see us as the reason their lives are in shambles because of our U.S. dollars supporting their Royal Families. Despair breeds desperation and disillusionment and that is how you get young Saudis to jump on a flight and fly themselves into building

The great lie is, "they hate us for our freedom", The right winger's motto. They hate us for what we have done to their region is more the truth. We are blinded from this because as a population we have never been taught anything but the embellished good propaganda. Did they ever teach you in school or anywhere else that we could have dropped the Atomic Bomb on Germany but chose to drop it on Japan instead. Why? Because they were not White. It was skin color that was the deciding factor. The White race got a pass.

The American Indian wars raged in this country for many years. It was genocide pure and simple and economics is the only reason they were not wiped to extinction. When the bean counters in the Federal Government figured out it was costing over one million dollars per Indian life taken, the reservation became the chosen method to deal with the indigenous population. You see to man an army against them was just too costly. It was dollars nothing more, just money.

How about our polished covert work in South America in the 60's and 70's and Viet Nam in the same time frame. The Cuba population has been enslaved and made to live indeplorable conditions since the 60's because we refuse to sit down and work things out with a country 60 miles from our boarder. The Cuban Americans became a voting block for the Republicans and tool to be used.

I will not speak to our current situation abroad, but I can almost bet 40 years from now this story will in noway resemble or even recognizable when it comes to the facts. The effort to rewrite this period of history has been underway since it began. If we continue the mind set that we are currently engaged in, your grandchildren will never be taught what really is happening now.

Obama's Pastor said some things that are scary to the uninformed White American. I do not condone all that he has said, but I do know there is a lot of truth in his words. We have been very arrogant at times and when it comes back to haunt us we become indignant. The Republican Talking Point for this, "is the blame America first", statement. This absolves us of any responsibility in the hand of fate that befalls us.

I feel Barack's position in this matter is clear and concise. The Pastor is from another generation. A generation where Blacks were not even guaranteed a vote until the 60's. Just barely one hundred years earlier they were slaves in this country. Barack has proven himself to be a man of good judgment. He has taken the correct teachings from his Mentor and rejected those that are at odds with his beliefs. This sounds like an intelligent man to me.

You are now witnessing the Corporate Powers and the Main Stream Media at work. They are protecting their agenda and their economic interests at the expenses of our freedom of choice. Barack and our will to change the hands that govern us is a threat to the comfy position these people find themselves in. You see the "boomers" are not going to hand the helm to the younger generation with out a fight. They will do anything to keep control and now it looks as if they will even go as far as trying to divide us along racial lines. Hillary"s camp has been attempting to Ghettoize Barack from the beginning and now she has the Press helping her.

Free your mind from the fear peddlers. Think for yourself. Do not let them guide you into the light. This is the first time in my life that we have had the chance to take control of our government. The internet is our power. We now can communicate with each other like we have never been able to in the history of mankind. It would be ashame waste it at this juncture. This Country need new drivers with new maps because the ones we have now have gotten us really lost.

Watch this George Carlin video thing will get even clearer.
http://www.stumbleupon.com/demo/?review=1#url=http://www.youtube.com/wat...

ROB@379......you are free to peddle your brand of fear...but just get you history right. "the atomic bomb was not dropped on Germany..'cause they were white" really dumb...the firebombing of Hamburg was god-awful as was the bombing of Dresden. In Hamburg the fire raged for days and days creating a tornado effect sucking people for many blocks through the narrow streets to their death...the total death count is still debated. Germany was defeated before the atomic bomb was good to go...and we only had two. Was race involved..sure but being white did not save Germans..be they soldiers or children. Now to the American Indian....well this is a subject dear to my heart.....THE TRAIL OF TEARS ENDED HERE WHERE I LIVE : OKLAHOMA. and this is a tragic part of our history. But did you know that when the Cherokees arrived in Oklahoma...that they came with lots of black slaves? And that they fought against the North during the Civil War to gain their freedom and to keep their slaves? Or did you know that over 50% of native Americans died of smallpox before ever seeing white man? And do you know how much the Christian faith is to blame for the treatment of the American Indian or black folk for that matter? Southern Baptists were created in 1830 (so carolina) to use the Bible to defend their right to own slaves..and save their souls from hell and paganism............history is replete with huge dichotomies and confusing elements ... by ignoring this rich diversity the Rev Wrights of the world are doing the fear peddling you condemn. In one diatribe he calls the Romans ..Italians...and Italians, european men...which he conflates into WHITE MEN so and therefore the REV says white men enslaved the Jews....HORESPISS. That is history pulled out his ass. The Egyptians enslaved the Jews the Romans conquered the Jews and rulled them....If he studyied his bible he just might notice that fact. And the biggest slave traders of all time were Muslims....somehow I bet that little fact never comes up in that church. This shit ain't hard to find out about...you say at the last FREE YOUR MIND...well good do so....but just have coffee with a history major from time to time and ask harder questions and don't reject the answer just because it does not fit you current view of the world.

So an old black man can't preach about race in America? He can't bring up, what the CIA calls "blowback", concerning 9/11? A reverend cannot preach about what he thinks God's judgment would be concerning mass murder and genocide?

I didn't hear him say God let 9/11 happen because of Gay people or White people.. but foreign policy evils, something that our own intel agencies call "BLOWBACK"... it is a technical and accurate context. The only thing that matters though is ........ IMAGE... The 'tone' of the pastor is quite different from Obama's tone, especially concerning race and foreign policy. And Sen. Obama 'must' distance himself because Americans and their media are insanely ignorant and immature.

It is sad that the Democratic Party distances itself from issues that 35 yrs. ago, it would embrace. Martin Luther King Jr... that's right MLK himself... read what he said again, and look at the pastor's words in text.... MLK talked a lot more about race in America, and about evil foreign policy, as well as about the 'moral' character of America and the importance of its focus. (Oh, by the way... there are NO progressives running for President... 36 yrs. ago maybe... it's better for democratic voters to talk about non-issues, acquiesce to fake progressives, and throw ralph nader under the bus.... time to change our cell phone ring yet?)

Steve @ 384:

This thank God will kill the Obama Campaign. This has been known Obama is around and suported by people who hate Amerians and Jews and who are anti white

Thank goodness the Church is standing behind Rev. Wright and the current pastor is UNAPOLOGETIC! *lmao*

Nothing Wright said was wrong, or even "over-the-top". For some reason white people are just offended by the truth when a Black person says it. Maybe because "our" delivery isn't as dry as a day old toast... maybe a fire & brimstone preacher scares white people's delicate sensibilities... ?

I personally don't know what the problem is when a Black preacher says the EXACT same things the Unitarian church has said with its anti-war protests, or the PDB's said about 911 being about "unintended blowback", or what Human Rights Watch has said about the civilians deaths in Iraq being caused by America.

Not a Republican @ 24:

andy @ 12:

His pastor is right about 9/11 though isn't he ? chickens did come home to roost, it's called blowback

http://video.google.com/videoplay?docid=-2476452190633032034&hl=en

Two wrongs do not make a right.

where did i say it was right ?.... merely pointing out the obvious, you reap what you sow.

ted @ 31:

Swasbuckler, if you believe I'm "overblowing" this thing -- and I wish I were -- I don't think you fully appreciate the Jeremiah Wright impact here.

Have you listened to all of Wright's comments repeatedly being broadcast on cable news outlets and talk radio?

Obama says Wright is his "mentor" and inspiration for his book, "Audacity of Hope".

Haven't listened to talk radio, but quite frankly it's irrelevent. The people who listen to Rush and Sean weren't going to vote for a Dem in any case.

I have seen it on cable (over and over and over again). What the pastor said will cause problems for Obama, and if these videos had surfaced earlier in the race it could have been decisive. But at this relatively late date it's a big speed bump, nothing more.

WRG @ 33:

McCain the Liar @ 3:

I didn't think the statements were that bad. I know they piss off the right but who cares.

I completely agree. The three or four statements I've heard Wright say - I've agreed with and have probably said myself at some point. Frankly I was a little disappointed that Obama distanced himself from them.

Let's save America

and let be damned:

racism
sexism
imperial wars
imperial economics
imperial plunder of the environment
imperial religiousity
imperial stupidty

Obama in '08

This country IS run by rich white men.
This country DID nuke Japan killing millions of innocents.
This country has done a lot of atrocious things.
This country was stupid to believe there would never be any consequences.
What did this guy say that wasn't the truth?

Before you get your dander up. I am not saying we deserved 9/11, but it is understandable.
We are in Iraq now killing over a million people and destroying their infrastructure for what? They did not do anything to us. We killed Saddam. Was he evil? Yes. We supposedly killed him because he gassed his own people and yet WE sold him the gas. America is not innocent.
If there was a god I bet he would damn us.

swasbuclker, it's more than a "big speed bump", it's a blockade. Think about it. Had it happened very early, Obama cluld have cleared out for Hillary. Now it's too late and the Dems face a disastrous path -- leading to the GOP winning POTUS. How sad.

reality, you're splitting hairs. Wright and Obama have been associated closely for over 20 years, Wright officiated at Obama's wedding, his kids' baptisms, and Obama has contributed much money toi Wright and the church over the years (Wright basically IS the church -- until now).

How in the heck can Obama now say he never knew Wright said these things at this late stage. This completely undermines Obama's credibility.

anneyhussein @ 43:

This is essentially a post I made yesterday in a thread where it was off-topic, so I'm saying it here.

A candidate’s pastor shouldn’t even come into the discussion. Their outrageous statements are theirs, not the candidates’.

So you were wrong both days. People are judged by others that they associate with. If a person associates with people who repeatedly espouse questionable opinions then it calls into the question the judgement of that person. When that person is running to be the President of the United States, when that person is claiming that their judgement is superior to the others in the running for President, then such a thing is fair game.

44 ted Says: swasbuclker, it’s more than a “big speed bump”, it’s a blockade. Think about it. Had it happened very early, Obama cluld have cleared out for Hillary. Now it’s too late and the Dems face a disastrous path — leading to the GOP winning POTUS. How sad.

---->Americans will be distracted as soon as Paris/Britney/Lohan show their twats again, or some other bit of fluff. Things blow over. Quick what was the top story, same date, last month? No one knows, or cares (???). I'm just sayin'...

Is there still a war in Iraq. No one knows, or cares (??). Just sayin'...

fwacbar @ 19:

The pastor is entitled to his opinion. It's called "free speech". Poor poor billoh, he never did like the rest of us having rights, of any kind. I guess the dementia crowd billoh draws won't be voting for Obama. Darn, that would have given him an additional .0004 percent of the general population....

I find this statement rather funny. A few days ago, there was a firestorm over the statements made by former Congresswoman Geraldine Ferraro who was exercising her free speech rights as well to speak a truth about race in this campaign. How come the Senator Obama supporters didn't stick up for her rights?

Oh wait, that's right, Senator Obama can do no wrong, even in regards to the support he gives his very controversial pastor. I have known about Senator Obama's ties to this minister for quite some time, and it is one of the reasons I am not supporting him to be our Democratic presidential nominee.

Oh and let the bashing from the Senator Obama supporters begin.

>>--Ted-- I get your concern. I just don't think it'll be enough to sink his ship. I could be wrong. We'll both see, won't we.

This is what we get when the Church sticks it's nose into government and politics.

A major mess.

what are you smoking. You keep saying all these years. what nonsense! what has he been saying all these twenty years? where is the proof? are u a church goer? cos people get married in the churches they attend all the time, and they get baptizied there too. what does this mean? nothing.
Obama stated that he had about these particular comments early in his campaign so what the heel are tralking about that it undermines his credibility? I bet you're a clinton supporter so it kinda makes sense since u've been ranting about why this should have come out ealier than now.

I am a really big Obama supporter. I thought we had a real chance to do some good in this country. Sadly, I think this is pretty much the end of my Obama dream. There is no way he can win the general now. This is getting so much play and I don't care what your political view is, but this rhetoric and hate has no place in our public discourse. Obama's reaction was slow and clumsy. Why would he not leave this hateful church?

It's sad thinking what might have been!

dennis @ 27:

bluegal-

How do you make this story about Bill O'Reilly? Statements made by the Rev. Jeremiah Wright are offensive to a great many people in this country and his relationship to Obama is a major story to more news organizations than just Fox or Bill O'Reilly in particular.

This blog blames everything on Bill O'Reilly. Only thing is, he's not running for President. But congrats to you for posting the story- looks like the first one so far here. It's a bigger story than the sad attempt by the NY Times to link McCain to an affair with a female lobbyist. That one had no substance and no follow-through by the Times. This story does have substance.

The Obama-Rev. Wright story; not the O'Reilly one.

Actually, Hines Sight broke this story on March 9th. The problem was, the race issue kind of put it on the back burner for everyone. Race trumps religion. Race trumps homophobia and homohatred and race trumps sexism.

Janet Hussein @ 42:

This country IS run by rich white men.
This country DID nuke Japan killing millions of innocents.
This country has done a lot of atrocious things.
This country was stupid to believe there would never be any consequences.
What did this guy say that wasn't the truth?

Before you get your dander up. I am not saying we deserved 9/11, but it is understandable.
We are in Iraq now killing over a million people and destroying their infrastructure for what? They did not do anything to us. We killed Saddam. Was he evil? Yes. We supposedly killed him because he gassed his own people and yet WE sold him the gas. America is not innocent.
If there was a god I bet he would damn us.

You and others need to get away from the computer for a bit. Of course our leaders' actions in the Middle East led to 9-11, and of course acknowledging that our leaders' actions led to 9-11 doesn't in any way mean you condone what happened on 9-11.

But when you think of Wright's statements, you have to think of the impact outside of the Left Blogisphere. I'm talking about the majority of potential Dem voters who've said repeatedly in polls that they'd be fine with either Clinton or Obama as a candidate. These are the people Obama has lost this week, and he won't get them back...

anneyhussein @ 43:

This is essentially a post I made yesterday in a thread where it was off-topic, so I'm saying it here.

A candidate’s pastor shouldn’t even come into the discussion. Their outrageous statements are theirs, not the candidates’. … … ….

A very good post, read the whole text.

We have separation of church and state yet we pander to religiosity.

What are purveyors of superstition from ancient books of fables doing advising leaders of nations with 21st century technology that can end life on earth.

Obama addresses this well enough.

Swashbuckler @ 48:

anneyhussein @ 43:

This is essentially a post I made yesterday in a thread where it was off-topic, so I'm saying it here.

A candidate’s pastor shouldn’t even come into the discussion. Their outrageous statements are theirs, not the candidates’.

So you were wrong both days. People are judged by others that they associate with. If a person associates with people who repeatedly espouse questionable opinions then it calls into the question the judgement of that person. When that person is running to be the President of the United States, when that person is claiming that their judgement is superior to the others in the running for President, then such a thing is fair game.

Then you believe the Clintons are anti-Semites, I see.

I don't.

Between now and November there will be a constant flow of bullshit "breaking news" stories (that have nothing to do with the true issues that concern Americans) only meant to bring Obama back to Hillary and then McCain. OBAMA IS NOT RESPONSIBLE FOR WHAT HIS PASTOR SAYS! This make me even more determined to support Obama because it tells me that Hillary/McCain have nothing concrete on the man. Sorry, maybe you can play again....asshats.

iraqhusseinconcilable @ 63:

Remember Billo in that video at an Obama rally getting embarrassed by the security guard and then practically begging Obama for an interview as he walked by ? So long, interview.

"So long interview"?
I disagree. Seems to me that Billo probably knew all about this and was just going to try to trip him up in an interview.
That seems more likely too me.

Regardless of what we think or don't think about Wright's comments, this is radioactive stuff for a big chunk of America, and not just the right-wing nutjob chunk.

Trying to talk around the political damage isn't very realistic. And I don't think Obama has handled this well at all. It's time to come to grips with the reality that Obama is not a new type of politician who's going to fix everything with his magical inspiration.

WRG @ 61:

ted @ 34:

WRG, unfortunately Wright's statements will "piss off" far more than the right -- or at least enough more to be the difference whether Obama can win or lose the election (or the nomination for that matter).

It didn't seem to hurt his chances the last time "FOX" brought the subject up a few months ago. It's more media hype than anything else.

The last time there wasn't video.

katy @ 73:

RMHK @ 8:

The only thing I heard him say that I didn't agree with was Godd*m the USA. ...

he didn't say that... he said "god DAMN the usa"...

and, all things considered, many blacks have every right to say that...

Most Americans won't take it that way...

To make this about anyone other than Obama and HIS judgement is just nuts. I watched 360 last night when Anderson Cooper interviewed Obama and even the two on the panel trying to spin it for him knew he was lying. Olberman has jumped the shark and can no longer be viewed as anything other than a wanna be O'Liely nut case. This so-called reverend is nothing more than a white-devil hating racist and Obama has called him his spiritual advisor and mentor for 20 years. And now those statements that Michelle Obama has made will maybe get some play. I have thought for quite some time that all this race-baiting whisper campaign to make Bill & Hillary the racist has come straight from the Obama camp and now to hear his supporters defend the indefensible is just unbelievable. Does anyone with a brain actually believe that Obama did not know what this pastor was all about? Does anyone really believe that Obama did not know what Resko, his friend and benefactor for 20 years was all about?
Judgement my ass!

I see Hillary's hate squad is out in force early. Enjoy your thread, neocons. I won't be around for it to reach 100. It's already looking like a michael vick thread.

see ya! Enjoy your hatefest. Be sure to vote Democratic in the election.

I'm pretty sure nothing Obama does can satisfy the closeted, code-word-using racists, so I'm gone.

knifewrench @ 64:

Janet Hussein @ 42:

This country IS run by rich white men.
This country DID nuke Japan killing millions of innocents.
This country has done a lot of atrocious things.
This country was stupid to believe there would never be any consequences.
What did this guy say that wasn't the truth?

Before you get your dander up. I am not saying we deserved 9/11, but it is understandable.
We are in Iraq now killing over a million people and destroying their infrastructure for what? They did not do anything to us. We killed Saddam. Was he evil? Yes. We supposedly killed him because he gassed his own people and yet WE sold him the gas. America is not innocent.
If there was a god I bet he would damn us.

You and others need to get away from the computer for a bit. Of course our leaders' actions in the Middle East led to 9-11, and of course acknowledging that our leaders' actions led to 9-11 doesn't in any way mean you condone what happened on 9-11.

But when you think of Wright's statements, you have to think of the impact outside of the Left Blogisphere. I'm talking about the majority of potential Dem voters who've said repeatedly in polls that they'd be fine with either Clinton or Obama as a candidate. These are the people Obama has lost this week, and he won't get them back...

i agree - the blogs are good to express opinion, but remember we represent a very small slice of the public. the majority of people (80% or more) are going to be very offended by these hateful and disgusting comment. i am an obama supporter that has defended him on everything, but his weak response to this really has got me questioning him

i also think this things just about finishes his chances to win the general, so i'm torn. i don't think hillary could win it either. obama has a shot, but now we gotta probably waitg until after McCain's first term to get a winnable democrat

ted @ 46:

reality, you're splitting hairs. Wright and Obama have been associated closely for over 20 years, Wright officiated at Obama's wedding, his kids' baptisms, and Obama has contributed much money toi Wright and the church over the years (Wright basically IS the church -- until now).

How in the heck can Obama now say he never knew Wright said these things at this late stage. This completely undermines Obama's credibility.

ted,

Keep grasping at those straws! Officiating a wedding and baptizing kids is what the minister of a church does. As others have said, these are a couple of sermons taken from the 20 year period Obama has been a member of the church. It is very plausible that Obama hasn't been witness to any such sermons. In addition, as soon as these sermons came to light, Obama immediately said that he disagreed with the opinions being expressed. I think we all know and love people whose opinions occasionally differ greatly from our own. Should I disown any friend who has ever said something I think was dumb or poorly informed? If I did, I'm pretty sure I wouldn't have any friends left.

BaScOmBe whose saying "NO REPUGS" @ 47:

Great! A rapid response. His Pastor must be feeling the need to cut loose on his way out. What a dumbass piece of shit to not think he would reflect on Obama. I am happy that Obama's response was swift, thought I did not see it in the NYTimes today. I'll have to check CNN, MSNBC et al.

Agreed. A quick response is what is needed. This is where Kerry failed. He waited to long to distance himself from comments made by someone else or to call those out that told lies about him. By the time he did get around to it, it was to late and those lies sunk in and the voters believed that they were the truth. Obama has learned well from Kerry's mistakes.

Ryan, you're splitting hairs.

Joe in SF @ 74:

Regardless of what we think or don't think about Wright's comments, this is radioactive stuff for a big chunk of America, and not just the right-wing nutjob chunk.

Trying to talk around the political damage isn't very realistic. And I don't think Obama has handled this well at all. It's time to come to grips with the reality that Obama is not a new type of politician who's going to fix everything with his magical inspiration.

Joe,

I have always been very suspect of Senator Obama's religious views. When he refused to remove a hate minister from his South Carolina "revivals" who espoused some very virulent anti-gay views, it closed the door for me on Senator Obama. So, you are very correct that it just won't be the theocratic fascist right and the wrap themselves in the flag crowd that are upset with the Rev. Wright and his statements, it will also be those of who are free thinkers in the moderate to left zone.

ted @ 90:

Ryan, you're splitting hairs.

Content. I seem to have lost it.

krisken @ 81:

Swashbuckler @ 59:

Phoenix Justice @ 52:

fwacbar @ 19:

I find this statement rather funny. A few days ago, there was a firestorm over the statements made by former Congresswoman Geraldine Ferraro who was exercising her free speech rights as well to speak a truth about race in this campaign. How come the Senator Obama supporters didn't stick up for her rights?

Err... double standard?

What you meant to say was
1. The pastor did not and does not officially represent Barack Obama in any sense, nor has Barack Obama said that the pastor does.
2. Even though the pastor doesn't speak for Barack, he denounced the words spoken by his pastor and disagrees with them. Something Hillary hasn't even made an attempt at with Ferraro.

Really people, this isn't that hard to figure out. There is a huge difference in the way the campaigns have been handling things. I find it funny that people are crying that these two are being treated differently when they handle events that are basically the same very differently.

Lets put it this way, to make it simple.
Two different kids have a friend over at their homes. In each case, that friend burns the kids' parents couch. The first kid makes excuses for his friend and says nothing else, not denouncing the action in any way. The friend says that, hell, they would do it again if they had to!

Now the second kid, he says that he is very upset by what his so called friend did, and apologizes to his parents for the behavior of someone they thought was a friend.

Now, they are going to be treated differently, right? Is it an over the top example? Yes. For some reason, though, anything less obvious is lost on too many people.

What you meant to say was that the pastor represented Obama as much as Ferraro represented Clinton, as both the pastor and Ferraro were members of committees associated with their respective campaigns, but were not spokespeople for the campaigns.

You're right, the campaigns did handle it differently. Ferraro was out after a few days after making her controversial statements. Pastor Wright was out YEARS after making his...

Ryan, quite the contrary. Obama did not immediately denounce. Moreover, Obama claims he only just now learned of this type of rhetoric from Wright. How credible is that? Wright has been Obama's mentor for over 20 years and the inspiration for his book.

So, coupled with the Wright taint, Obama will no be seen byt many as a liar for denying that he never knew.

Ryan @ 86:

ted @ 46:

reality, you're splitting hairs. Wright and Obama have been associated closely for over 20 years, Wright officiated at Obama's wedding, his kids' baptisms, and Obama has contributed much money toi Wright and the church over the years (Wright basically IS the church -- until now).

How in the heck can Obama now say he never knew Wright said these things at this late stage. This completely undermines Obama's credibility.

ted,

Keep grasping at those straws! Officiating a wedding and baptizing kids is what the minister of a church does. As others have said, these are a couple of sermons taken from the 20 year period Obama has been a member of the church. It is very plausible that Obama hasn't been witness to any such sermons. In addition, as soon as these sermons came to light, Obama immediately said that he disagreed with the opinions being expressed. I think we all know and love people whose opinions occasionally differ greatly from our own. Should I disown any friend who has ever said something I think was dumb or poorly informed? If I did, I'm pretty sure I wouldn't have any friends left.

Do you honestly think that pastor Wright only delivered two sermons like this over the past 20 years?

ted @ 90:

Ryan, you're splitting hairs.

What? I don't think that means what you think it means. By the way, if you'd like to your money where your mouth is (in regards to this ruining Obama's chances at the dem nomination), just let me know.

Ryan @ 91:

Phoenix Justice @ 52:

fwacbar @ 19:

The pastor is entitled to his opinion. It's called "free speech". Poor poor billoh, he never did like the rest of us having rights, of any kind. I guess the dementia crowd billoh draws won't be voting for Obama. Darn, that would have given him an additional .0004 percent of the general population....

I find this statement rather funny. A few days ago, there was a firestorm over the statements made by former Congresswoman Geraldine Ferraro who was exercising her free speech rights as well to speak a truth about race in this campaign. How come the Senator Obama supporters didn't stick up for her rights?

Oh wait, that's right, Senator Obama can do no wrong, even in regards to the support he gives his very controversial pastor. I have known about Senator Obama's ties to this minister for quite some time, and it is one of the reasons I am not supporting him to be our Democratic presidential nominee.

Oh and let the bashing from the Senator Obama supporters begin.

The obvious difference being that Obama immediately denounced the comments as soon as they were brought to his attention. Very few people were angry that Clinton knew someone making nasty comments, they were angry because she took her sweet time denouncing those comments.

Yeah, but pastor Wright stayed with the campaign for another month. He was only booted once videos surfaced and he became a liability...

swashbuckler, if everybody quits a church they attend because they hear something offensive, there won't be any church goers left. hell, people disagree with some of the teachings of their church and they don't quit cos of it. attending a church is more than just sermons, it's a community for many people. you don't throw away the bath water with the baby. this litmus test is particularly ridiculous in light of the many teachings and behaviours of heads of the different churches and denominations. if you have something against religion that's fine but making these connections between laity and priest in this way is silly at best. it's like saying why didn't all catholics leave the church after the pedophile fiasco. that'll be crazy right?

krisken @ 101:

L.A. Confidential @ 95:

Here's probably the typical nitwit TV Commercial of the near future.

"Obama’s spiritual adviser of 20 years hates America and thinks “we deserved 9/11″. Obama’s wife says she has never been proud to be an American. Obama refuses to wear An American flag button.

I am John McCain and I approve this message."

Yeah, but to be fair, John is so absent lately that he could say at the end of the commercial
"I am John McCain, and I approve of stupid."

Problem still is the American public responds more viscerally to superficial visual cues than to qualities like substance and talent.

Bluesage @ 80:

To make this about anyone other than Obama and HIS judgement is just nuts. I watched 360 last night when Anderson Cooper interviewed Obama and even the two on the panel trying to spin it for him knew he was lying. Olberman has jumped the shark and can no longer be viewed as anything other than a wanna be O'Liely nut case. This so-called reverend is nothing more than a white-devil hating racist and Obama has called him his spiritual advisor and mentor for 20 years. And now those statements that Michelle Obama has made will maybe get some play. I have thought for quite some time that all this race-baiting whisper campaign to make Bill & Hillary the racist has come straight from the Obama camp and now to hear his supporters defend the indefensible is just unbelievable. Does anyone with a brain actually believe that Obama did not know what this pastor was all about? Does anyone really believe that Obama did not know what Resko, his friend and benefactor for 20 years was all about?
Judgement my ass!

The Wall Street Journal had a great piece about the whisper campaign by the Senator Obama team to insulate their candidate from tough questions by making any "attack" about race. They knew that Senator Clinton had strong ties to the black community and in order to weaken, if not break those ties, they needed to paint the Senator Clinton campaign as having "racist overtones". They also figured, no matter the Republican nominee, that should Senator Obama become the Demcratic nominee, the tough questions could be pushed off again as being racist.

Earth Calling!

News flash (and reminder).

The doors of the US Treasury have thrown open to looters in what could be the greatest swindle in the history of the world.

It is called more simply, the WAR IN IRAQ.

War profiteering is at an all time high.

Not to mention the human cost.

We now return you to our regularly scheduled soap opera programming: As the Cleric Turns.

Ryan @ 91:

Phoenix Justice @ 52:

fwacbar @ 19:

The pastor is entitled to his opinion. It's called "free speech". Poor poor billoh, he never did like the rest of us having rights, of any kind. I guess the dementia crowd billoh draws won't be voting for Obama. Darn, that would have given him an additional .0004 percent of the general population....

I find this statement rather funny. A few days ago, there was a firestorm over the statements made by former Congresswoman Geraldine Ferraro who was exercising her free speech rights as well to speak a truth about race in this campaign. How come the Senator Obama supporters didn't stick up for her rights?

Oh wait, that's right, Senator Obama can do no wrong, even in regards to the support he gives his very controversial pastor. I have known about Senator Obama's ties to this minister for quite some time, and it is one of the reasons I am not supporting him to be our Democratic presidential nominee.

Oh and let the bashing from the Senator Obama supporters begin.

The obvious difference being that Obama immediately denounced the comments as soon as they were brought to his attention. Very few people were angry that Clinton knew someone making nasty comments, they were angry because she took her sweet time denouncing those comments.

How could he not know months ago about these statements? Pastor Wright is his mentor. No, what really happened is that Senator Obama "denounced" Pastor Wright's statments ONLY after the media started to truly report on them. Everything wrong is ok, until you get caught.

Spin it anyway that you would like, but the double standard is there.

Hannah, Iraq is on the back burner, now that things seem to be going better there for the US.

Obama's association with Wright -- since it involves love or country etc. -- WILL BE the issue now to many of the voters.

ted @ 98:

Ryan, quite the contrary. Obama did not immediately denounce. Moreover, Obama claims he only just now learned of this type of rhetoric from Wright. How credible is that? Wright has been Obama's mentor for over 20 years and the inspiration for his book.

So, coupled with the Wright taint, Obama will no be seen byt many as a liar for denying that he never knew.

I wish this site had an ignore filter!

He did, in fact, denounce the comments when they were first brought to his attention. He has done it again now that it's become an uproar. Also, AGAIN, these were a couple sermons from a 20 year career. Why is it so improbable that Obama may not have been in attendance for these 2 sermons? Why do you assume these 2 clips from the media are representational of all of Wright's sermons, even when Obama says specifically that they are not representative. In addition, you didn't respond to the fact that virtually everyone has friends, relatives, even pastors that sometimes say things we think are stupid or wrong or poorly informed. I don't think that occasionally disagreeing (even fervently disagreeing) with what your pastor says means you should have to cut ties with a church that is a big part of your family's life.

And this particularly hurts Obama because he has been campaigning to be above divisiveness and be of total honesty.

How can Obama "honestly" say he never knew of this rhetoric by Wright?

Swashbuckler @ 104:

Ryan @ 91:

Phoenix Justice @ 52:

fwacbar @ 19:

I find this statement rather funny. A few days ago, there was a firestorm over the statements made by former Congresswoman Geraldine Ferraro who was exercising her free speech rights as well to speak a truth about race in this campaign. How come the Senator Obama supporters didn't stick up for her rights?

Oh wait, that's right, Senator Obama can do no wrong, even in regards to the support he gives his very controversial pastor. I have known about Senator Obama's ties to this minister for quite some time, and it is one of the reasons I am not supporting him to be our Democratic presidential nominee.

Oh and let the bashing from the Senator Obama supporters begin.

The obvious difference being that Obama immediately denounced the comments as soon as they were brought to his attention. Very few people were angry that Clinton knew someone making nasty comments, they were angry because she took her sweet time denouncing those comments.

Yeah, but pastor Wright stayed with the campaign for another month. He was only booted once videos surfaced and he became a liability...

I agree with you on this point. I feel it would have been appropriate for Obama to remove Wright as soon as the comments became public. Just as I felt Ferraro should have been removed as soon as her comments were made public.

Ryan, there are way more than 2 clips of this!