The Trail: A Daily Diary of Campaign 2008

http://geo.ya.com/kotimare/ preved

God Bless Smiley,

Finally someone sees through Obama, he sure talks alot but no substance to back himself up. And finally a jounalist (of all people) speaking out againt Obama. Someone who speaks the news and doesn't try "to make the news" like "all" the networks.

1) Didn't show up at MLK Observance, Hillary did.
2) Didn't show up at the last invite to a Black Convension, Hillary did.
3) And now declined an invite to talk at the State of the Black Union, Hillary will be there.

Doesn't there seem to be a pattern developing here???

He acts like he has the black vote all wrapped up or he thinks he don't need their votes at all.

Imagine the negative publicity Hillary would get if she turned down similar events.

Come on people, voting should be taken seriously, it appears Obama doesn't see it that way.

Obama would rather go bowling than go to the State of the Black Union, and in closing--how many candidates (over the years) took a weeks vacation right in the middle of a tight campaign race??? Think you already know the answer.

Look at the issues on the web and where
they each stand on them, then vote with your head not your heart.

GOD BLESS AMERICA!!!!

Obama's efforts to connect to the Republican Party, specifically Bush, and Dick Chaney, of the Halliburton Company, dates back to the Presidents Grandfather, Prescott Bush, and indeed Chaney was once an executive officer of Halliburton.

The American military pounds Iraq with Artillary, bombs, and the like, destroying large sections of cities, and infra-structures, then Halliburton comes in to rebuild. Halliburton and Halliburton associated companies have raked in ten's of billions.

Obama is just like the BIG HALIBURTAN. Haliburton has contracted to build detention centers in the U.S. similiar to the one in Quantanammo Bay, Cuba. Halliburton does nothing to earn the Two Dollars for each meal an American Serviceman in Iraq eats.

http://www.halliburtonwatch.org/

Halliburton was scheduled to take control of the Dubai Ports in The United Arab Emiirate. The deal was canceled when Bush was unable to affect the transfer of the American Ports.

Now we see what some might suspect as similiar financial escapading from the Democrats.

Two years ago, Iraq's Ministry of Electricity gave a $50 million contract to a start-up security company - Companion- owned by now-indicted businessman (TONY REZKO) Tony Rezko and a onetime Chicago cop, Daniel T. Frawley, to train Iraqi power-plant guards in the United States. An Iraqi leadership change left the deal in limbo. Now the company, Companion Security, is working to revive its contract.
Involved along with Antoin "Tony" Rezco, long time friend and neighbor of Democratic Presidential hopeful Barack Obama, and former cop Daniel T. Frawley, is Aiham Alsammarae. Alsammarae was accused of financial corruption by Iraqi authorities and jailed in Iraq last year before escaping and returning here.

LIKE FATHER LIKE SON --
Recently, Obama's campaign staff have been vetted by the IRS to disclose his connection to the criminal money generating underworld. Besides, his connections to the REZCO MAFIA types, his up-coming tax fraud charges -- Obama needs to disclose why he is a MUSLIM "PATWANG-FWEEE" and disclose Obama's MUSLIM Farrakhan mob connection to Chicago's Trinity United Church of Christ. Its minister, and Obama's spiritual adviser, is the Rev. Jeremiah A. Wright Jr. In 1982, the church launched Trumpet Newsmagazine; Wright's daughters serve as publisher and executive editor. Every year, the magazine makes awards in various categories. Last year, it gave the Dr. Jeremiah A. Wright Jr. Trumpeter Award to a man it said "truly epitomized greatness." That man is Louis Farrakhan. Farrakhan and Chicago's Trinity United Church are trumpeting Barack Obama AKA Barack Hussein Obama as the second coming of the messiah. Obama should stop suppoting our intervention in IRAQ. It's time to introduce this false, fake Xerox - X box Obama and invite the self-indicting thief plagiarizing pipsqueke "GLORK" Xerox - X box to meet the Buffalo "GAZOWNT-GAZIKKA" Police Department Buffalo Creek. He is MAD!!! --

OBAM YOU'RE NO JFK --

"GLORK" Obama looks like Alfred E. Newman: "Tales Calculated To Drive You." He is a MUSLIM "Glork" He's MAD!!! Alfred E. Neuman is the fictional mascot of Mad. The face had drifted through American pictography for decades before being claimed by Mad editor Harvey Kurtzman after he spotted it on the bulletin board in the office of Ballantine Books editor Bernard Shir-Cliff, later a contributor to various magazines created by Kurtzman.
Obama needs to disclose why he is a MUSLIM "PATWANG-FWEEE" and stop suppoting our intervention in IRAQ. It's time to introduce this false, fake "GLORK" Xerox - X box Obama and invite the self-indicting thief plagiarizing pipsqueke Xerox - X box to meet the Buffalo "GAZOWNT-GAZIKKA" Police Department Buffalo Creek.

Michelle Obama should be ashamed.

"GLORK" Michelle Obama should be ashamed of her separatist-racist connection to Farrakhan and Chicago's Trinity United Church trumpeting Barack Obama AKA Barack Hussein Obama as the second coming of the messiah. If Michelle Obama new what her husband -- the Hope-A-Dope, Fonster Monster -- Barack Obama AKA Barack Hussein Obama did in Harlem, she would wash her wide-open, Hus-suey loving MUSILM mouth out, with twenty-four (24) mule-team double-cross X-boX-BorraX. He is a MUSLIM "Glork" It's time to introduce this false, fake "GLORK" Xerox - X box Obama and invite the self-indicting thief plagiarizing pipsqueke Xerox - X box to meet the Buffalo "GAZOWNT-GAZIKKA" Police Department Buffalo Creek. He's MAD!!!

http://www.halliburtonwatch.org/

THE SPEECH --

The Apologia has arrived and once again the self-indicting, separatist-racist Barack Obama AKA Barack Hussein Obama, promises to heal the wounds of the world. The speech is the rude awakening of mass messianism of his campaign. Apologetically, Obama the MUSLIM double-cross X-boX-BorraX has an astonishingly empty two-prawn echelon explanation of his misjudgment.
In the first prawn: with regard to his connection to separatist-racist Rev. Wright; Obama summons voodoo and juju to express slavery as beginning and ending with the Rev. Wright.
In the second prawn: Obama's speech takes credit for Ashley's dream. A dream of unity Martin Luther King, Jr. borrowed from Ashley for his historic "I Have A Dream" speech. In Obama's speech, the connective bond Ashley, the elderly black man and Obama's grandmother share; represents Obama's self-indicting rise to the Harvard Yard. For Obama, the grand flag of language is the semi-fore of words, bestowed upon our nation by the messiah-alumni from Harvard. Obama's Swoon-Song Apologia to the nation represents a failed hymn -- a hymn that fails to heal the nation, repair the world, or make this time different than all the rest. Obama's speech is a brilliant failure.

http://www.halliburtonwatch.org/

As an African American I've immensely enjoyed watching this forum and supported Tavis over the years, but was very much disenchanted with Tavis' whiney attitude on this matter. He was obviously upset because Senator Obama didn't attend "my" black party. His ego obviously surfaced because everyone invited to "his" party didn't attend, particularly Obama. So what? Grow up! That wasn't the only thing on the Presidential nominee's agenda. I'm sure he gets many invitations that his campaign has to be selective in attending for the right reasons. Obama has lived the "black experience" what more could he add that some of the other prolific panelists didn't add? His campaign was politically astute to decline. He had business to attend to on the campaign trail by those who still have challenges accepting an African American for the highest office in our country, don't know him like they know the Clinton household name or who needed to learn more about his stance on the issues facing Americans, not just Black America. He was out breaking barriers, expanding his horizons, while Tavis was sitting in the same annual setting talking among alike people about the same old issues that will not be overcome until we come together as one America. This is not to minimize this excellent symposium, however in the eyes of much of the mainstream media and many White Americans, this annual event is a mega black block party that perpetuates division among the races when we distinguish Black America from America in general. By the way, who put the label out on "Black America?" Is there a "White America"? We know there are issues uniquely facing the various races/ethnic groups in America that must be dealt with, but at some point if we want to deal with these issues from a unification stance, we need to bring leaders of the various races together and talk it out. How long do we keep talking to each other about issues in America where overwhelmingly Black America is present? Comedian and Activist, Dick Gregory at times was just as offensive and shameful as Rev. Jeremiah Wright's sound bites. This forum should incorporate dialogue among a more expansive and reflective representation of Americans (not just black folks) as to how we deal with these issues as ONE nation, not a black nation, black union or Black America. We understand that our history is unique from other races in America, but what next? When we put all of us on one side of the fence in one room (convention center), we don't allow the social, political, religious and educational exchange that is needed to move us forward.

The fact is, the majority of us indiviually or corporately aren't in any position of political, corporate, economic or social power, so just talking among ourselves only surpresses it within the confines our our race and limited power structure. Now, think about. With all the controversy facing Obama over his former pastor, Rev. Wright, do you really think the media would have downplayed or overlooked Obama (an African America) attending a State of the Black Union event nationally televised on C-Span without making it into a negative? Of course not! Oftentimes, politics doesn't play fair and neither does the media. They would have fed into this, spun it habitually to characterize him as a Black Candidate, just as Bill Clinton intentionally set the tone for and as one looking out for "his" people (as some ethnic groups already imply).

Wake up Tavis! You're sharp enough to know racial politics, yet were too full of your ego and your agenda to understand why it was smart for Obama not to attend, rather intentional or unintentional and jeopardize being misinterpreted even with good intentions. Don't be prideful and stubborn like Geraldine Ferraro. You missed it on this one and as someone who has admired your work over the years, you let me down on this one.

Tavis, I hope you're reading this missive. It wasn't that serious that Obama didn't attend your party. We need to look within our motives and start checking ourselves before we're so quick to check one another, esp. when all eyes are on us. Hillary had to attend, esp. after Bill's demeaning comments which he categorically denies. Well, in the history of all Presidential primary races, why did he choose Jesse Jackson out of all former candidates who've won South Carolina to compare Obama too? Race!! Let me minimize his success and stick him in the category of the other black man. The Clinton's are slick political dynastys. Hillary had to smooth it over! "If" anyone was offended. Why wouldn't we? Bill's comments were deliberate and intentionally. Yet, Tavis gloried in her presence for attending his party.

I support Obama for all the right reasons and not because he's black. He's capable to lead this country. Yes, experiences among candidates differ, but just like the real world marketplace, the best candidate for any job is not always the one with the most education (and he's got that, Ivy League) or the one with the most seniority or greater political ties, but the one who meets or exceeds the minimum requirements for the job, the heart to do the job and for all people and unify political party leaders, who essentially run the country anyways. As a former corporate manager, I learned from recruiting and hiring prospective employees that there are certain characteristic you look for in new employees beyond the minimimum requirements and it's not always the status quo, standard qualifications. Like many Democrats, I was a Clinton supporter until I listened to Obama's message of hope and change and begin reading about his plan for America as an authentic Presidential Candidate, not "black man running for President." The average American knows little more about Hillary's experiences and could name nothing specific outside of her simply being a former First Lady, so let's lay off the "experience" argument as the sole basis, simply because Bill was President, not Hillary. But she's using his name and administration to push her agenda.

Tavis, GROW UP! While you're touching primarily "Black America" Senator Obama is going beyond your limited space to touch the heart of America at large with a message for all people. We need you, we need him, we need Dems & Republicans, we need each other of all races to make America a more perfect union! I applaud him and Hillary Clinton for going against the odds of the traditional white male candidate. I just believe that Obama is about change, not politics as usual, grass roots and Hillary represents the special interests groups, status quo, corporate Democrat, who just happens to be a female. Her philosophy is the same as all of her predecessors, the old guard. The only thing different is her gender.

Smiley's ego is out of control. I don't know who died and made him the boss of black folks. I'm glad that Obama didn't deem to kiss his pinky ring. He is so smug and santimonious.

ahh lets face it, if he were to speak at the conference he would loose support in the white community, because he has assured them he wont bring up there racist history, unlike thoose other negros al and jessie. Preident Clinton held a conference on race. what would you bet that he will? he cant and wont because he has promise them he wont embarass them in exchange for their support.Is this the courage we are looking for in our community? He has distance himself from his church(the white media calls it a church with afocentric veiws)hint, hint we must discuss how much selling out is acceptable for the highest office in the world. Tavis is right thats to high a price your dignity.

Smiley is a notorious egomaniac/drama king diva who always has a fit when he's not the center of attention. Too bad the author didn't mention how Smiley quit talk-show gigs on both NPR and BET when he felt those networks were doing an insufficient job of stroking his considerable ego and self-appointed role as America's black spokesman. This is just another case of Smiley's insufferable vanity - which he cleverly cloaks with his "Everybody's picking on me" whining and self-martyrdom sniffling.

I worry when I hear all this hatred from Barack lovers. We are in big trouble if this is the attitude through the whole general campaign. I worry about this country and the direction these people want us to go. I watch every year on C-Span TAvis Smiley black union and find it extremely interesting and educational. Some of those black people roasted the hell out of Hillary and yet she still went out in front of that hostile crowd because she cares. DO YOU HEAR ME _ SHE CARES!!!!!!!!!

Barack offered respresentation on his behalf at the State of the Black Union event, via is wife, Michelle. Tavis turned down this offer. Would you have turned down Bill as well? My goodness, Tavis!! Barack cannot be in two places at the same time! Also, the timing of the State of the Black Union event was way off track as Obama had already won in New Orleans and had turned his focus to Texas and Ohio. Looking at how close Obama and Clinton are now in these two states, it is obvious he made the right decision, again! Tavis should be ashamed of himself. I am no longer a fan of Tavis Smiley. Of course, Hillary made a point of attending State of the Black Union event, she's scrambling for black votes that she had previously taken for granted! I think it would have been disastrous for Obama had he attended State of the Black Union event in New Orleans instead of putting his efforts into campaigning in Texas and Ohio. Barack is change, new and fresh. The White House is the last place Hillary should want to take Bill anyway. I like the Clintions but hey, you've had your chance. We the people are ready for someone new and fresh. Clinton-Bush-Clinton? Wake up people! I think not!

Hmm, does it not upset anyone that Mr Smiley's family is being harrassed and he is getting death threats? I presume by Obama supporters? Is this really alright with you all?

Tavis initiated this controversy with the bashing of Obama at his 2007 SOTBU and continued with his very negative commentaries on the TJMS beginning in January 2008 through February, warning Black folks not to fall in love with Barack Obama. Tavis has not singled out any other candidate with criticism, only Obama. Ellen, go to http://www.blackamericaweb.com/site.aspx/sayitloud/smiley and listen to his commentaries; start with December and continue. And he chastises his audience about Obama as if we are political dumbies, we don't like that. And not one comment on the negative campaigning of the Clintons. Tavis had Obama on his show in October but did not utter any of his so call concerns, go figure. And I am sure Tavis has read Obama's stand on all issues. We all think Tavis has another agenda and whatever it is we don't like it. More disappointing was that commentaries were not the language of love that he constantly remind us to use. ???????

I've read almost all of the comments before mine and I must say that we are alive and well as a democracy. While I don't agree with Tavis Smiley's approach to Senator Obama's decline of his invitation, each person does have a right to speak his mind.

I think it is refreshing that so many people chose to voice their opinion about this matter. I was encouraged to voice mine. In a democracy, we should be able to speak our opinion, chastise and criticize each other when we truly feel that another is off track.

Reading the comments written was a learning experience for me. Ruby Dee said on Tavis Smiley's show Friday that "We all are students of each other". And you have certainly been my teachers today. Thank you.

I think Senator Obama's run for president and his success thus far is very encouraging for Black people, given our history in the United States and actually for Black people world-wide. I received an e-mail from a friend, who is South African and lives in South Africa, expressing his excitement and hope. Why shouldn't Black people be excited? Even if you don't vote for or support Senator Barack Obama, this is an important moment in the history of Black people in the United States. That is the truth, all due respect to the other Black candidates for president in years past.

In spite of the sometime vehement disagreements among Black people and people of other ethnicities, progress is being made. I would suggest that we all "keep our eyes on the prize, and our back to the wind". That prize is to truly have a vibrant and healthy democracy where we all can participate, and learn to accept our differences and learn from them.

All U.S. citizens must break the shackles of racism and classism to realize as Ruby Dee said so succinctly "We all are students of each other." Do you dare to learn??

I'm glad to see an African American man standing up and voicing his concern over Barack Obama's pompous attitude. It is becoming increasingly more evident that Mr. Obama is a performer, rather than a concerned political advocate. While the schedule of a presidential campaign is most certainly a grueling undertaking, it should not be solely about pep-rally filled arenas. Mr. Obama may be generating a ground-swell of enthusiasm but, the bottom line is, it's all about nothing. Don't forget that he's winning in states with caucuses but the overall popular vote is not so enthusiatic about Barack Obama. Hillary Clinton supporters are hard working folks who, for many, weren't able to attend caucuses due to conflicting work schedules. It's great that all the young people are coming out in droves to support Barack Obama but they don't represent the spirit of America's struggling working class.

I'm glad to see an African American man standing up and voicing his concern over Barack Obama's pompous attitude. It is becoming increasingly more evident that Mr. Obama is a performer, rather than a concerned political advocate. While the schedule of a presidential campaign is most certainly a grueling undertaking, it should not be solely about pep-rally filled arenas. Mr. Obama may be generating a ground-swell of enthusiasm but, the bottom line is, it's all about nothing. Don't forget that he's winning in states with caucuses but the overall popular vote is not so enthusiatic about Barack Obama. Hillary Clinton supporters are hard working folks who, for many, weren't able to attend caucuses due to conflicting work schedules. It's great that all the young people are coming out in droves to support Barack Obama but they don't represent the spirit of America's struggling working class.

Good 4 You Tavis! Glad someone is brave enough to call a spade a space. For the record, I don't support NONE of these candidates, they're all clowns to me.
Tavis is right - you're so afraid Obama is going to get ghettoized by the white media you make excuses for his cowardice. Have you noticed that besides Oprah, almost EVERY prominent black person has been kept at arms length? This is no mistake - they recognize there may be white backlash a la Jessie Jackson. Many whites have expressed that feeling, including Bill Clinton! That he must be a modern Uncle Tom, speaking in race neutral tones. That's why he didn't show up. Here was a unique opportunity and he wanted to send in a surrogate, his wife, to a premier African American event. That's what this is really about. Yet you are angry at Tavis for calling him on it, not Barack for chickening out. White people don't look at him the same as us, descendants of West African ex-slaves. His daddy was an immigrant from east Africa, straight out of Kenya, didn't raise him and he had a white momma to boot. He doesn't share our cultural roots in any shape, fashion or form. There are plenty of black people in the world, even here in the US, but that's different than being truly African American. Many don't understand that point, but it's true. Condi Rice is more real than he is but that's another story. That's why white people love him so much, he doesn't make them feel guilty or afraid when he approaches them; they can delude themselves they are being forward thinking, "liberal" by picking his as "their" candidate. He won't even come talk to "his people" because he knows he isn't one of us. He has his token wife to fill that role. He may be black but he's not my brother. I'm sick of black folks who will take any sellout just for bragging rights; how shallow can you get. No wonder we don't have a $#!t together - Barack's just another piece of bling.

Tavis Smiley knew Obama wouldn't choose to attend. Tavis Smiley is simply grandstanding. It's his choice, but he will also have to live with his decision to take the low road. Good luck with that Tavis.

I just finish watching the State of the Black Union on C-SPAN. Mr. Smiley cleary stated that he had invited all four Presidential Candidates to the forum but only Mrs. Clinton had accepted. As a hispanic female, I felt at times that some of the presentors were feeling a sense of being owed something to them. At times the tone took a direction of a lost society of people that will now be validated by the Presidency of Barack Obama. As a hispanic female, I to can say that my people have suffered greatly. I don't think for a second that Barack Obama sees this as the second coming. He wants all people to unite and stand strong for democracy. His speeches are filled with hope, inspiration and change. While I agree that he will invoke great passages of Dr. King and the likes, he will not focus his presidency on all of the horrible things done to all people of color, culture, religion or otherwise. Hillary is not to blame for what happened in the 1800's. She like Barack are just trying to make a difference. Education is a person's best defense!

Tavis needs to ditch his ego and his known affiliations with the Clintons. Like others, he is a mere pawn of Bill and Hillary. He should be ashamed of himself. Hillary is behind and perplexed that blacks are not blindly following her. So she will do anything to get ahead. Obama needs to be out campaigning in the critical states where he is behind, not kissing up to Tavis.

I agree with the majority of comments on this blog. It is Tavis, who I once held in high regard, that is being unreasonable and petty by attempting to put Obama on "blast" for declining to attend his event. Tavis seems to think that he holds so much clout with black Americans that his doing so, would affect the opinions of black America towards Obama. Just goes to prove how much respect that he has for the group he claims to love. For number one, black people have MINDS of their own. We are an intellegent people, and do not need a spokes person to direct us. Obviously, we have collectively listened to the arguments and actions of both candidates and have decided that Obama would be the candidate that would benefit us most as a people. NOT just because of his race! For me, his record as an activist and civil rights attorney in Chicago, clearly demonstrates that he is no "Clarence Thomas". He is extremely intellegent and has a clear VISION of uniting the entire country!! As for Hilary, I get sick and tired of everyone touting her 30 years of experience. First of all, First Lady is not a public office. Second, What did her husband really do for blacks? Just because he "hung out" with the TJMS and played on the sax on Arsenio Hall show, does not mean he gets a ghetto pass to black America. Memo to Tavis: Black America does not owe the Clinton's loyalty or anything else. We want to the best candidate, which is clearly BARACK OBAMA!!

What is wrong with you people?? Tavis is getting Death threats and his MOM and Brother are bieng harrassed?? And you most of you all are condoning it..Like its OK...WOW..Why?? Because Tavis felt that it would be a good setting for Barack to address the plight of the people in New Orleans.

I went to New Orleans to try and help clean up almost a year after Katrina and it was still a mess.

I wonder if Barack would have took time out to go to NEW Orleans if he had not already won LA?? Seems like now that LA has voted he has no need to vist there, even though that New Orleans is where Tavis decided to hold the State of the Back Union and to invite ALL the candidates. So i wonder who cares more about who?

I was leaning for Obama but i have to say that some of the comments and actions that i've seen for his supporters is very telling.

Ya. it is a close race but Sen.Clinton is going to take out her campaing to be there?? That too is telling..

Both candidates are intelligent, savvy politicians who will do what they think is neccessary to support their campaigns. I am an African American female who questions who is Tavis Smiley ? He is a journalist and promoter who makes a GOOD DEAL of money talking about issues that he decides are relevant. His event is about him. More power to him as businessman, but he does not speak for all segments of African Americans. It is time that he and others realize that skin color is not the only variable in how people come to decisions about their lives. There is no monolith of black opinion that Tavis is the spokesperson for. Get a grip people make up your own mind based upon what you feel is important in your life.

I believe it is unconscionable for Tavis Smiley to attack Barack Obama because he cannot spare the time to make it to his event. Clearly, Obama is in the make or break moment of his potential presidency. If he does not win Texas and Ohio it could mean that Clinton could take the election through Super Delegates. I am an activist and an African American. I am sorely disappointed in Tavis Smiley's callous self promotion at the expense of this historic run. Is Mr. Smiley really that short sighted? Do the efforts, hopes and votes of millions of Americans including Black Americans really mean so little to Mr. Smiley? If Obama's campaign got negative coverage at this crucial moment I would have expected it to come from Republicans. Instead I have to see it come from Tavis Smiley. Shame on him. If we lose Texas or Ohio it may be due in some part to Mr. Smiley.

A Concerned Black Citizen

Tavis is short minded. He thinks to be the center of
the black community. The politics are more complex
than he thinks. If Hillary will be there it is not
because she is more a black issues fighter than Obama
or I who heard about that Union for the first time
today. She has made her political calculations. Has
that been a White or Caucasian Union you would not see
her there expecting to get the black vote. Blacks and
whites issues sensitivity are not that simple or frank
in this country. Obama needs to run a bit more as a
candidate of everybody than anyone else. Make it a
Union of Underprivileged People and you will see him
there. Invite him to something that claims to be
promoting black people you won't see him unless he
wants to be a candidate of black people with similar
results of Jesse and Sharpton. Do not expect two
candidates from an 80 and 12 per cent communities to
run with similar precautions. Without this election
you would see him there with his entire family.
When will people learn to understand the dynamics of
things? These kind of empty speeches, unions or
associations are one of the things that keep us behind
while other communities are prospering. For everything
involving black people all prominent blacks should be
there. What a logic!

As a black American who spends half of the year in France, I am amazed at some of the comments posted here. Mr. Obama is not confident he will win in Texas. Does anyone in America really watch the news or read the newspaper? He is behind in Texas, he is behind in Ohio and he is behind in Pennsylvania. He wants to focus on his goal which is to become the President of the United States.

Mr. Obama declined Mr. Smiley's invitation. While it may be subtle, there is a difference between declining an invitation and refusing to show up at an event. To all of you who feel that Mr. Obama doesn't have the right to pick and choose his engagements, especially the events sponsored by blacks, how racist are you? For Mr. Smiley to castigate Mr. Obama, because he declined, is juvenile.

Mr. Smiley is not the voice of Black America. He does not speak for me. He should not speak for anyone in Black America. He is entitled to voice his opinion and that is all.

Living both in France and the United States has really been eye-opening for me. I am more aware of the box we, as black people, put ourselves in to seem united. I am more aware of the subtle ways that racism is perpetuated by everyone. We talk about the possibility of having the first African-American president. However, we seem to believe that an African-American president would have some special obligation to African-Americans. I argue that they would not.

African-American is a political term that was coined for some purpose. I find the term exclusionary. Every black person in America is not African-American. Every group of people who find themselves on the fringe of society are not African-Americans. Maybe Mr. Obama is trying to be everyone's president.

The notion of majority rules goes out the window when someone understands that as President, you are everyone's president. Mr. Obama may wisely decide to lead and run his administration by consensus. That means that some of us will not always be happy with his choices. However, we may be happy with his leadership. It would bring a type of reason and civility that has been lacking for so long.

As for the open primary switch sides conspiracy, that takes a lot of organization; and frankly, from what I have seen in America lately, no one has the will to work together to achieve a common goal.

Tavis indeed made a "miscalculation" in unfairly trying to box Obama into a corner by questioning his loyalty to the Black community. As the previous poster Mamawa stated, I too have listened to Tavis' commentary over the past month (over the last year for that matter) and he has shown nothing but disdain towards Barack. Oh sure he has tried to disguise his tirades by claiming that he's doing this out of his "love for Black folk" but his rhetoric was filled with clear dislike for Obama and was condescending to his listeners. It's no secret that he is close with the Clintons and if that's who he has chosen to support then so be it, but don't patronize me by "acting" like you are fair and balanced. People need to wake up! Tavis is working for the Clintons! He clearly wants Obama there to debate with Hillary however Barack has stated that he will do only 2 more debates with Hillary and the SOBU is not one of the venues. Why would Obama give into a platform that Clinton have been trying to get him to participate in? This was Tavis and the Clintons way to slip in another debate and Obama did not fall for the okie doke! If anyone feels that Tavis is a fair and impartial party to this, just do a little research. Tavis and Bill are very close, Hell the man has even flown in Air Force 1 with Bill, not to mention he has a nice link to Bill's book on his website with a special message from the former prez himself saying how good of friends they are! Tavis is not slick, he is in bed with Billary, and like I said cool, but don't play your listeners like fools thinking that you're only doing this out of love. You have an agenda just like the rest of us, just be honest about it! M'kay!

Tavis Smiley is a favorite. Obama not yet.
Michelle is great BUT too eager to be a first lady wrapped up in bizarre populism.
Something is wrong.

Not a very good strategic decision Tavis. You may very well have summarily dismissed our future First Lady Michelle Obama as not being good enough to be featured at your event.

As it is, we all know the annual State of the Black Union....not very good as it has not been for the last two decades. The truth is the State of the Black Union is in a state of arrested development and its best chance of changing for the better anytime soon lies with the hopeful future success of the Obama family and not with your rehashing of the same issues year in year out.

Meanwhile, you have given an open platform to the one person who is doing her best to derail Obama's and our best opportunity to change our current state.

Tavis you have made a strategic mistake and I will leave it at that.

Now Tavis wants to play the victim, when he has been publicly criticizing Sen. Obama for over a year.
First Tavis and Cornell West were angry that Senator Obama announced his candidacy from the steps of the state house in Springfield Ill.
Then Tavis was dismissive of Obama's victory in the Iowa caucus and his commentary just seemed to get progressively worse.

To me Tavis has lost all objectivity when it comes to Sen. Obama and his listeners know it. To threaten to put the candidates on blast if they don't attend his forum was beyond the pale and his listeners let him have it. Tavis went too far.

Mr. Smiley, the "miscalculated" and critical mistake is yours. You turned down Michelle Obama.... she is the reason everyone supports Barack Obama!!! This woman is dynamic and she is the WOMAN beside this man and has what seems to me a lot of influence in this campaign. It's your lost.

What bothers me is people who have not heard Tavis speak on the Tom Joyner Morning Show over the past few months and constantly attacked Obama. This invitation was just the last incident. Every week, we heard Tavis attacked Obama for many instances, example, he was mad that people chanted "race doesn't matter" after the victoy in SC. Another week, he said that he gets annoyed when people said that "Obama transcends Races". I can go on and on things he has been saying. He always attacked Obama, not Clinton or the other runners. It was obviously unfair, unnecessary and it blew on this face PERIOD
He has been threatning, belittling Obama and constantly scauled at the voters everytime the was a victory. SO if yu do not know the whole story, please SHUT UP and do some research.

See comments like the one below truly irks the heck out of me! Some folks tend to forget what happened between Iowa and South Carolina. The Clintons (yes I said Clintons) polled very high amongst African American leading up to South Carolina. That is until Hill and Bill made some comments that were deemed racially divisive in their attempt to remind the "good southern white folk" that Obama is a Negro. It was the Clintons who introduced race into the game by comparing Barack to Jesse and dropping code words by referring to Barack as a "kid". Not until these mis-steps by the Clintons did Black folks began to take a closer look at BOTH Hillary and Barack and decided to go for a candidate who is not only very qualified but can be an agent to bring this country together. Something I doubt Hillary can do. Having said that, I'm sure many of us remember that most Black folk did not support Barack initially. Some by their own assinine reasoning, claiming that he wasn't "Black enough". The Clintons took full advantatage of this pitiful mindset to the point where Bill actually began to believe that he was indeed the first "Black president" and felt he could say anything without reprecussions. Well I guess he got his "Black card" revolked in a quickness! So please don't blame the racial politics on Barack, the Clintons started this and it back fired!

_________________________________________

Posted by: tim591 :

For all his rhetoric, Sen. Obama has succesfully divided America. You are a fool or naive if you believe that there is no racism in this nomination. The Obama campaign with the help of media cleverly manipulated this to gain the overwhelming support of the black people. They even attributed the blame to the Clintons. How can you explain the reason why Sen. Obama is getting 80% of the the black voters if not for this? By getting less than 20% of the black voters, you would think that Sen. Clinton is not acceptable to the majority of the black voters. But this is not the case. The Clintons are also loved by these constituency. The only reason is because she is running against a black man. If these black voters are voting en masse for Sen. Obama, you can be sure that other races will do the same. This is the sad story in this campaign.

I am ashsmed and disheartened with black america. I feel where tavis is coming from. I am a 50 year old africa-american female. There is nothing wrong with tavis inviting the 'THREE PRESIDENTIAL" hopefuls to the event. barak should have showed up if the other two didn't no matter what. without excuse. He's confident in his ability to win texas. SURELY, he could have taken a small amount of his understandably busy schedule to accommodate the event. Barak has proven that he want to cherry pick the settings he finds himself in. particularly as the settings relate to african americans. he is afraid of the issues he may have to deal with and his answers, or lack of, may make him less-appealing to black supporters or caucasina supporters depending on questions he has to answer.
I support you tavis. black america has turned their backs on the clintons. It is disgraceful and hypocritical. The clintons stood with us long before we knew of barak. and for issues that mattered to us and that were unique to us. this is not barak bashing. i love the brother. i love black people. i just think that our decisions should be "INFORMED DECISIONS" and not just emotional ones. We should always do our homework on candidates regardless of race and/or gender. Experience has always been something that we as blacks had to exhibit. We had to have it in order to get the job. Even when we demonstrated it, we may or may not have gotten it. this is what was done to us. This is what makes us such hypocrits. We have forgotten where we came from. We have forgotten what matters. we are doing what has been done to us. where are our morals?
i love you tavis. you have done nothing wrong. i know you love barak and you love black people and you identify with us. it's not you. it's the hypocrits who have not demonstrated an ability to make "an INFORMED DECISION". instead, they have made a decision on "EMOTION." i thought we had gotten passed that when jessie jackson and al sharpton proved that a black man can make a credible and viable run for the white house. they were well-versed on the issues and did not cherry-pick their settings because they were not afraid that they might lose caucasian and/or black voters if they didn't say what he felt they may have wanted him to say.
SHAME ON US BLACK AMERICA!

Posted by: ctrs1100 | February 16, 2008 01:44 PM

I challenge ctrs1100 to explain to us exactly what policies that Bill Clinton actually stood up for us.

Do you realize the Black prison population exploded under his administration. Did you know that the disparity of minimum sentencing between crack and powder cocaine was instituted under his watch. Did you know that the Bush administration appointed more Blacks to higher positions than Bill Clinton. There was Genocide going on in Rwanda during his administration and he did nothing.

Now don't get me wrong, I think Bill did great things for the economy that helped everyone.

I don't have a problem with Tavis inviting Obama and the other candidates. However, the tone he used to put Obama "On Blast" for not attending is what has bothered me and many others. He could have merely stated the facts, Obama declined the invite because he felt he needed to be someplace working on securing his nomination as the Democratic Presidential candidate.

I attended last year's State of the Black Union I found it very informative and insightful. I also purchased Tavis' books, but when you're wrong you're wrong. He needs to admit his mistake and all will be forgiven and he can go forth and do the great things he has been doing for Black America.

T. Webb

I think as Black people we owe Mr. Tavis Smiley an apology. Since when is it okay to threaten any person and their family because of what others "THINK" his political affiliation is?
Let me start first by saying I am an Obama supporter. I think this man is magnificent, and his declining the State of the Black Union does not bother me in the least. I think he has to do what he feels is best for his campaign.
We all need to think of the comments we are making, and how they sound. I even read a comment above mine stating that Tavis needs to get a wife....what does this have to do with anything? Why must you make personal attacks against a person you know nothing about? Honestly, it makes US (Blacks) look like an ignorant people.
Tavis has not stated who he actually supports. As far as we all know, he might be an Obama supporter. He is just doing his job. His goal is to help us all move forward as a people....this is what is lacking for Blacks today. Many are complaining that Tavis thinks he is the voice of black America...well you know what....at least he is trying to do something about the state we are in! I truly believe Tavis' heart is pure, and he loves us all. Many of us have to get out of this mind set that it is okay to complain and degrade instead of overcome and uplift!! Come on my Black brothers and sisters...we have to support one another. That is why our society is broken now....because we do not know how to love ourselves and one another.
So stop hating on Tavis for doing what he feels is right. He is not hurting Barack Obama's campaign. If you are a true supporter, nothing Tavis says will sway you. For those who are on the fence,listen to Obama's entire message to us. Keep in mind whose politics match your political beliefs. Who is speaking to you? There are so many atrocities befalling blacks right now. Let us take all of this negative energy we are spewing over Tavis, and utilize the same excitement for something positive.
God Bless you all. Stay positive.

OMG!! This beginning to get VERY annoying. Tavis' ego is outrageous! And for the uninformed people who don't take the time to do independent research would find that Obama is the better candidate. I can't help but wonder if because Obama's father is Kenyan and not a "brother" are some southern black not happy with him. The people that Tavis claims to speak for have spoken overwhelmingly against Tavis. I would be ok with his apparent strong dislike for Obama if he was as hard on the other candidates. Anyone can objectively come to a conclusion that he doesn't like Obama. I bet you he won't question Hillary about being describing herself as a young republican and a Goldwater girl! I bet he won't question her husbands policy on NAFTA (the reason we don't jobs are being sent overseas) I be he won't question her about her vote on IRAN giving Bush another chance to supposedly do the right thing. I bet he won't ask her why she won't release her taxes and be transparent. (She will only do so after getting the nomination when it is too late) Give me a break people!! WAKE UP... Hillary is Not Bill. and by no means am I saying that Obama is perfect. Tavis does not speak for me and I would venture to say that he doesn't speak for my generation that is filled with educated 20something year olds.

SOMETIMES PEOPLE ACT AS IF THEY DON'T HAVE COMMON SENSE. IT IS PLAIN AND SIMPLE: BARACK HAS TO FOCUS HIS ATTENTION ON HIS CAMPAIGN. HILLARY HAS DEEPROOTED STRONGHOLDS IN TEXAS, AND HE HAS TO WORK DAY AND NIGHT TO SUCCEED IN ALL OF THE UPCOMING CONTESTS. OBAMA IS TREMENDOUSLY GRATEFUL FOR THE BLACK VOTE, I'M SURE...BUT BLACK PEOPLE, DON'T GET IT TWISTED, BLACK PEOPLE DID NOT PUT HIM WHERE HE IS TODAY. THEY MAKE UP A SIGNFICANT BUT SMALL PERCENT OF OVERALL VOTES. AND, BLACKS HAVE ONLY RECENTLY JOINED THE BANDWAGON, BECAUSE THEY DID NOT BELIEVE IN HIM TO BEGIN WITH. NO MATTER YOUR RACE, OBAMA SUPPORTS THE NOTION THAT THE PEOPLE ARE IN CONTROL OF THEIR OWN VOTES. STOP TRYING TO PUT HIM INTO A BOX, HIS JOB IS TO ADVOCATE FOR AMERICA, NOT JUST BLACK AMERICA, LATINO AMERICA, ASIAN AMERICA, BUT THESE INCLUDED.

TAVIS SMILEY WAS JUST VERY DISAPPOINTED THAT OBAMA COULDN'T SHOW UP AND MAKE HIS EVENT TRULY SPARKLE. AND TO TURN DOWN THE OPPORTUNITY TO SEE MICHELLE OBAMA AND HILLARY CLINTON ON THE SAME STAGE MAKES HIM AN EVEN GREATER FOOL, BECAUSE I, AS A BLACK WOMAN, WOULD PAY TO SEE THAT!!

If Tavis wants any chance of remaining in the public eye... he really needs to shut up. I have love for the brotha but his behavior is quite unseemly. Obama is doing what he needs to do and has enough adversity without Smileys two cents. I haven't heard him going after Clinton in the same manner he has Obama. We have looooooooong memories. We don't forget things.

Love... I keep hearing him SAY that but in his Valentine's day message he basically called Barack and Michelle liars. I don't see love there. He has been undermining Obama for a while now and if he thinks he is feelin the pressure presently... just wait til those ratings start fallin and he can't GIVE a book away.

As a new generation voter... I would advise Smiley and other prominent black "leaders" who have been behaving similarly to stop and think about the recourse of their actions. With 80 percent of black voters choosing "change"... we may just vote next time to change YOU... Just ask Al Wynn.

potomac_river I am a little confused about your direct response to me. I think we are saying the same thing. You are right there is no "brotha man, hook up" that was my point. But it seems that Black America feels differently. If Barack is not held accountable for addressing any issues concerning African Americans now, then why do so many of us think that will change once, and if he is in office? For the bloggers that keep asking Tavis who elected him as spoke person, I say this: He obviously did, someone has to step up. There is always room for anyone willing to fight, represent and remind the rest of America about the disparities in the black communities. Stop talking about it, be about it, what are you doing to make a difference? Everyone is making this about Tavis, and it's not. The symposium reaches over 100 million people and those people are tuning in to hear issues that specifically affect African American's why would we not expect Barack to be there, particularly, in an election year? Tavis does not need Barack to be there for him, the request was made by Tavis, on behalf of Black people. Tavis and Barack already have a relationship. But, I want to know as an African American how my vote for him will make a difference in MY LIFE. Although it would have been great to have McCain present, as one blogger asked: Why isn't Tavis going after him? The answer to that is, he's a Republican, how many folk attending the State of the Black Union are voting Republican? Also if half of the Republicans failed to show to the Republican Debate hosted by Tavis, held last September why would we expect them to show to this? The issues concerning the African American community are not important enough to the Republican Party. Black America needs to wake up. Your point about blacks helping themselves is also well taken. However, if the only thing blacks did was look in the mirror, then guess what? We would have a bunch of black folks just standing in the mirror. Someone has to move from the mirror and bring these issues to light. I agree with Tavis, and admire his courage. Keep standing strong!

I don't believe that there have been any death threats against Smiley (At least, not related to his disrespect of Obama). I feel Smiley is attempting to salvage his image by trying to appear as the victim.

It seems that Tavis Smiley has either lost his focus on the prize, or it was never part his real agenda. Tavis went on the Tom Joyner Show and loudly intimated that he would bring the seven great plagues onto any invitee who chose not to attend his forum (with that annoying repetitive egotistical, exaggerated style of his).
Then after feeling the backlash, he claims great injury and misunderstanding.

He appears not to have the ability to see things globally. Nor does he have the ability to admit he made a significant error. However, he is apparently skilled at selective amnesia.

I think he would do well to pull out his Martin Luther King CD's and listen to the speech on the "Drum Major Syndrome". Else, he may soon find that he is no longer a part of the band.

First; there are no excuses for death threats. With that out of the way I feel that Tavis is more so concerned with his ego and financial gain. Yes I dare say financial gain... why do I say so. First; Tavis has been very critical of Obama in his segments on the TJMS. The sponsor of his segment is Walmart. By the way; who once sat on the board of directors of of Walmart; no other than Hillary Clinton. She at this moment has two Walmart lobbyist working within her campaign. To make matters worst; back in February 25, 2005, PRNewswire-FirstCall reported that Walmart made a $100,000 donation to the Tavis Smiley Center for Professional Media Studies. I my opinion; the conflict of interest that Tavis has in this campaign is too great.

@ksmithholmes,

I get tired of people like you trying to justify your choice of Hillary. Just back her, not with a preface of " I'm black and I like Hillary". That's like saying I'm a good negro boss, I'm not like the other bad ones. Obama is half white by the way. The ugliness of this race has been injected by the Clintons and it is about to get a whole lot worse.

This is transparent. Smiley is a Clinton operative. This is a ploy like the debate ploy: Clinton wants to take Obama out of the campaign and try to get some game-changing controversy or statement going.

This is a testatment to how rabid and full of hate Obama's supporters are. It is so disturbing to watch. What happens if he doesn't win? Will we have race riots in all major American cities? I think so. His entire campaign is a farce. He claims to be a uniter, but all I've seen is the opposite.

Obama's supporters in the blogosphere go absolutely insane if they don't get their way, and I worry the public at large is ceding this over-the-top group of noisemakers far too much power and influence.

A small sampling of their comments is enough to let you know they are zealots who will let nothing stand in their way.

A word to the wise: I think we're dealing with an increasingly incendiary and dangerous group of people.

The irony, of course, is that Obama and his campaign continue to present him as the new messiah who will unify the country and change the world.

I am truely disappointed in the actions of Black America as a whole. First and foremost, I live in Illinois and my family and I are driving down to New Orleans this weekend to attend the SOBU, I just went and purchased Tavis' autobiography in the hopes that I could get him to sign it when I saw him. Tavis is catching hell for merely doing his job, where can I ask is his ego getting in the way? I do think that it is important that Barack make an appearance there because he has better understanding of what us, as African Americans deal with on a daily basis, in regards to heath care and social injustices to name a few. There are two forums that go on for the SOTBU, a morning one and an evening one, and I am pretty sure that he could have squeezed us in there somewhere while on the campaign trail. With that said, I am however a supporter of Mr. Obama, I believe that he embodies "CHANGE." I feel that his stance of education is one that is fair and would be widely accepted. I watch and listen to people stating that is doesn't have any experience when it comes to foreign affairs, but to be honest our current leader did everything in his power to destroy of foreign alliances doesn't seem to me that he had much of a background and foreign affairs. All in all, the death threats and public criticism towards Tavis is ignorant, he has dedicated his life to making sure that black issues are brought to the forefront and that we as a people are made aware of the situations that effect our community, it is terrible that we have resorted to a political form of black on black discrimination. I understand that Barack disicion to

Sen. Hillary vitriolically expresses her views on Sen. Obama's gifted oratory when
obviously her husband has the same gift and is making MILLIONS of Dollars in doing so..

Maybe she needs to try another approach.

Regarding the super delegates, exactly what is the point of having them? If neither candidate reaches the magic number of delegates needed to win the nomination, Obama supporters are saying those delegates should vote according to the popular vote -- the will of the people. From what I understand, super delegates are supposed to support the candidate they feel is the right one for the job. Now, some of those delegates who publicly support Hillary are feeling pressure to flip flop their support to Obama. Those delegates who have to worry about being re-elected are being forced to give up their principles just to save their jobs. If it ends up that all of Hillary's supporters are forced to flip flop to Obama if he wins the popular vote, the super delegate system should be discontinued. It is not working. If Hillary ends up winning the popular vote, would Obama supporters agree that all of the super delegates should vote for her?

It's a shame that Obama followers would criticize Tavis Smiley for his comments. Turn the table around and had Hillary not accepted and Obama had then I'm sure there would have been criticism for Hillary. Tavis keep your head high and don't let RACISM keep you from doing positive things in our community. Obama is not God, not the 1st Black man to run for President and just because he is BLACK-some folks are voting for him! I'm a Black African American woman that happens to have listened to All the debates and most of the speeches and Hillary IS by far the best choice for President. Obama, unfortunately is being pushed out front in most of these primaries because alot of Republicans ARE voting for him because they know he would be easier to beat than Clinton. During all their debates time and time again they all mentioned beating Hillary, not because they didn't think Obama would stand a chance, but because they knew she would turn this country around and get us back on track. If you don't believe me DO YOUR OWN RESEARCH-I find it hard to believe that as much as we want race to not play a role in our decisions-I see our Black people are just as racist as some redneck white people. If you can only say I'm voting for Obama because he's black, then you need to step up and research who is the best candidate for the Job, not based on race but on ideas, policies, etc,

In all fairness the DNP should step up and admit signals were given before the voting began that Florida and Michigan delegates would be seated no matter who won the state.. Especially Florida since it was republicans in control of moving their primary up and breaking the rules. The party can ill afford to have Florida feel alienated in the general election. Instead they let Clinton take the fall.
No one thought then these delegates could determine the nomination and I do not think they will or should now. But to bash Sen. Clinton for trying to do what is best for the party while giving Obama a pass for trying to change the super delegate rules put in place long ago is the height of hypocrisy!
Super delegates were put in place when the party decided to make the nomination so open to outside influences. They were created for exactly the situation we now face, when a movement threatens to co-opt the political party and/or the voters are swayed toward someone who may not be best for the party or country.
We are seeing the price to be paid for opening up the nomination to the general public. What is next; a general election for the democratic nominee, then another in November? In all likelihood this will be decided on popular vote, I only hope Florida's count does not have an impact. God help us if (shades of 2000) the overall popular vote is thwarted because of a technicality (not counting) involving Florida! I blame the Democrat National Party for this fiasco and for not having the courage to defend their position(s).

This is obviously a sensitive subject, but it must be discussed: persons who are not african-american see hypocrisy in the "black" community. They seem to be abandoning politicians with whom they have more in common ideologically, in order to support a man who shares their skin color. The 85-90% rates at which black voters are choosing Obama is clearly the result of racial identification(please show me how this is not the case, I cant see any way around it). This seems to be the same type of racism which the black community professes to abhor.
The lack of loyalty to the Clintons is very sad.
Why not just admit why you vote this way, black people? Why pretend otherwise? It is smarmy.

Who is divisive? Who is polarizing? Does Obama understand what he is awakening with his "hope and change" rhetoric? It is clear that many Obamaists don't want hope or change. They want POWER...and so does he.
Mr. Tavis should be able to say whatever he pleases, by the way. Isn't the United States the land of freedom? (free speech included?)
The papers and news media is doing absolutely nothing about this behavior of the Obamaists but if Mr. Obama wins the nomination the sentiment is going to be even more intense and the presidential race is going to become about all the things an election should not be about.
At this moment in history it is all very telling and very, very dangerous.

cooterbooter wrote:
Clinton's recent erosion of Black support, it is strategically worth her while to attend Tavis' function. Likewise given the fact that Obama's support in the Black community is far stronger than his support in other segments of the American population (e.g., White, Asian, Latino), it is strategically wise for him to spend less time campaigning to the choir and more time campaigning to the less than convinced

You miss the point that this event is not for campaigning purposes. Your statement also shows that unfortunately it appears that Obama is willing to accept the black vote but then will not appear to discuss their issues. I might be inclined to think that this is nothing more than using his race when it counts for him to get votes but then ignoring them and refusing to speak to them when it appears not to advance his personal goals. I personally find this contemptable and nothing more than pandering. I also find the attacks against Tavis to be deplorable and showing that if you are black you are expected to fall in line with all blacks and vote for Obama no matter what. Is this the message that is being sent that blacks are supposed to not think and decide their candidate on their own but are to blindly follow someone because of their skin color? I don't like the whole stench coming from this campaign at all! And to those Obama supporters who attack anyone who does not agree with your fervor, then remember, that is not a message of change but a copy of republican lite tactics that most democrats deplore.

Tavis, sorry, not 'Travis'.

"optik_b....'These Obama supporters are starting to remind me of Hitler supporters, really insane fanatics.'
You hit the nail on the head with that statement." pbrown82002

So long as the nail was in his head to start with, he appears to have been hitting it for some time....'Hitler supporters'? That's just idiocy, plain and simple. Obama as the anti-christ? For goodness sakes....do you really believe this stuff, or are you just out peddling hate?

Now let's see we've been having the State of the Black Union for a few years now, but it has been more about talking than actions. Has it increase the involvement of the participants in helping the community at large? NOPE! The State of the Black Union should focus to the State of the Black "Solutions."

The Clintons have used and exploited the plight of Black Americans to get elected. Let's stop calling Bill Clinton "the first Black President" because he is NOT and support and elect a real Black man as president. OBAMA 08!!!

Travis, if it's not your role as a journalist to boost Mr. Obama, why is it within that role to publicly criticize him for not appearing on your show?

Your roles as journalist and self-promoter are conflicting, and the journalist isn't winning.

Mr. Smiley: I guess you and Hillary still don't get it. If you had a State of the Union address, I suspect you would have had a better reception. But you choose to pander, preach division of the past and you got the last of the big panderers--Hillary. Enjoy your conference but I also suspect that if you were that good you wouldn't be relegated to PBS.

Get real Tavis, Barack offered you Michelle don't be rude and turn him down or watch your own life go down the tubes due to your ego.

I have never been wrong in my entire life.

I loved Travis Smiley, with all my being and gave him the befit of doubt against strong opposition around my circle. Case in point, every time I tried to watch his presentation on television, people literally lives the room when he is on, and I always beg them to give him the befit of dout. They always told me, he is an egotistic and an irritant SOB.

I am l utterly disappointed by his reckless adventure. Obama, not only addressing what is ailing African American community but beyond.

From now own, he should take his show and concerns back to Ohio where he came from and prove to us how he can improve the situation of impoverished African American community.

He has cheated his way to fame until now accidentally promoted by late mayor of Los Angeles, Tom Bradley,

He is the fool of the century in my book.

Inglewood, California

Nat

Obamabites you have got to be the most ignorant group of people I have ever heard. The attacks on Tavis are baseless and show some mental retardation of your ability to think. Tavis has done more for the black community than obama ever has, obama played the black candidate masterfully in SC, but wont address them when it comes to the seriousness of the issues?

The obamabites and obama campaign only know how to try and assassinate some ones character. You all are frankly disgusting, and when Hillary wins the Nomination, your going to have to grow up and get involved intelligently, there maybe some of you who won't, quite frankly we don't need you in the Democratic Party you have done nothing but divide us and you weren't there before.

There was a poster on another article that stated you try and destroy people to get them to see the light. You people are sick and act like a bunch of Nazis, that is how Hitler, Hussein, Osama Bin Laden gained their prominance and there are many of you who are no better.

How much?? How much did Travis Smiley receive to kneecap Obama?? Or maybe Bill clinton promised him some kinds of high profile position? Listen Smiley, clearly your ego and agenda are not the same wavelength as with the rest of Black America. You are as much a leader as much people are willing to listen and follow you. Death threats are never justified, I am sorry people feel they have to resolve to that to get your attention.
However, you can count on no longer having my ears. You are more dangerous to America than anyone could imagine, you are the enemy of Black America disguised as an Angel. Obama needs to campaign, and you want him to stop and come to your thing, come on ... While he come to stroke your ego, Bill Clinton is loose attacking at will.

He is right. Obama has displaced many of his own people out of there homes due to what Rezko has done. Has Obama did anything to fix that. Not to mention that while Michelle Obama sat on the board of the University of Chicago Hospital, they did nothing to change the policy at that hospital of taking no one that doesn't have health insurance. Mind you that hospital is also in a large area of his own people.

Many people are mentioning that 18 debates are enough. But there has been only one debate between the final two candidates. One debate is not enough.

Here are some details from the Massachusesetts mandatory health care program which Clinton wants to make national:
"What are the costs? Costs are determined by family size to be covered, age of adults to be covered and income level. A single person must pay the FULL COST of insurance premiums if their income is greater than $30,636. A couple must pay the FULL COST of insurance premiums if their income is greater than $41,076. A family, 1 couple with one child, must pay the FULL COST of insurance premiums if their income is greater than $51,516, and so on. Government assistance is provided to those making less than the stated income level within each family size mentioned above. To get more information on the assistance provided, you may go to www.mahealthconnector.org . This assistance may be changing soon, as indicated by this recent article in the Boston Globe. www.boston.com/news/local/articles/2008/02/15/health_plan_rates_may_rise_by_14/
Below is a table with premium costs PER MONTH of plans currently available within numerous categories:
Single making more---------------------Insufficient------------------Good---------------------
than $30,636/year--------Age----------Coverage-----------------Coverage------------------
---------------------------------30--------------$199.40--------------$347.69 - $473.42
---------------------------------40--------------$201.30--------------$396.00 - $577.00
---------------------------------50--------------$253.20--------------$441.50 - $826.06
---------------------------------60--------------$398.81--------------$695.39 - $946.83

Couple making more--------------------Insufficient------------------Good---------------------
than $41,076/year--------Age-----------Coverage-----------------Coverage------------------
---------------------------------30--------------$428.72--------------$747.54 - $1060.80
---------------------------------40--------------$579.84--------------$884.00 - $1252.29
---------------------------------50--------------$586.87--------------$942.00 - $1717.43
---------------------------------60--------------$857.43--------------$1144.00 - $1906.63
Family, 1 child more--------------------Insufficient------------------Good---------------------
than $51,516/year--------Age-----------Coverage-----------------Coverage------------------
---------------------------------30--------------$618.15--------------$1077.85 - $1572.00
---------------------------------40--------------$792.48--------------$1390.71 - $1673.67
---------------------------------50--------------$845.23--------------$1475.49 - $1915.00
---------------------------------60--------------$1139.53------------$1984.00 - $2415.07
About this table - The column titled "Insufficient Coverage" is the monthly premium for the cheapest plan available within all categories. The reason I titled it "Insufficient Coverage" is that I believe it is just that! This plan has a $2000 deductible per person, or $4000 for a family. It only covers 20% of hospital stays after the deductibles are met. I don't believe this is a worthwhile health insurance plan because the premiums don't justify the high deductibles, and because what we uninsured really need is protection against a huge unexpected hospital bill. I included this option in the table, however, to be honest about the lowest cost plans that are available. The column titled "Good Coverage" is the monthly premium for a range of different plans that have low or no deductibles, and 100% coverage for hospital stays. To see all the plans available for every family size and age, you can go to www.mahealthconnector.org . "

This whole "dilemma" is ridiculous and does nothing to further Tavis Smiley's cause of improving the "State of Black America". His event is an annual event that results in a lot of "brainstorming" but arguably minimal longterm consequence for "Black/Brown" America. Senator Obama's run for the presidency is perhaps a once in a lifetime event with the potential for massive long term consequence benefitting not just "Black" America but all of America. Unfortunately, politics in America has a strong strategic component. Given Senator Hillary Clinton's recent erosion of Black support, it is strategically worth her while to attend Tavis' function. Likewise given the fact that Obama's support in the Black community is far stronger than his support in other segments of the American population (e.g., White, Asian, Latino), it is strategically wise for him to spend less time campaigning to the choir and more time campaigning to the less than convinced. Further, let's not forget that we still live in a society divided along racial lines meaning non-Black folk are less likely to vote for a candidate that they perceive to be only a "Black" candidate. Was it not only a few weeks ago, when Bill Clinton and the Clinton campaign attempted utilize this sad but true fact in America by not so subtly injecting race into the presidential campaign through it's attempts to color Senator Obama as a "Black" candidate (e.g., references to Jesse Jackson winning southern primaries when Jesse Jackson was not even the topic)? Clearly, strategically speaking, Senator Clinton has far more to gain by appearing at the Tavis Smiley function whereas Senator Obama, from a strategic perspective, would have far more to lose by his attendance. What benefit to America, especially Black America, would there be if Senator Obama attends the State of the Black Union function but then loses the presidency and the opportunity to take all the wonderful brainstorming that occurs at this Union and actually make it a reality? Shame on Tavis for not being able to see the difference between short and long term gains and basically skewering Senator Obama for acting strategically in his best interest which is really no different than what Senator Clinton has done. However, once again race has clouded the picture (e.g., what is strategically in the best interest of a white woman is likely to be far different than what is strategically in the best interest of a black man when it come to American politics).

What would have been far more interesting to me would have been for Tavis to invite both Bill Clinton and Michelle Obama to speak. We've already had Hillary and Barack 18 times for debates (w/ two more to come)....enough. We haven't seen Bill and Michelle on stage together and that would be exciting and NEWS. Michelle Obama can give anyone a run for their money and Bill would be evenly matched with her. They both have inspiring speaking styles in different ways and I think it would give a reason for people to tune in, beyond the crowd that the event is for. Bill Clinton is wonderful to listen to. Michelle Obama is a refreshing new voice and I think that the two of them together would be hard to beat. They are both great advocates for their spouses as well as just a pleasure to listen to.
And I think that Michelle would actually be a great challenge to Bill, maybe pushing him beyond his usual oratory in a good way. Face it, he hasn't been challenged too much in this way, and I think it'd be good for him.

On another note, I'm an Obama supporter and while I can relate to the passion his supporters feel, I am disappointed in those who demonize and threaten others who feel differently. That is the opposite of the spirit of Obama's campaign and why we respond to him so strongly. There are other ways of persuading that are far more effective and do not alienate others....it's called good communication, and it's more difficult and subtle than the same old politics, but, give it a try.

Tavis, please, grow up! By the way, what can Hillary say about the "State of the Black Union" that Michelle can't?

Tavis, please, grow up! By the way, what can Hillary say about the "State of the Black Union" that Michelle can't?

I do not know much about Tavis myself.
But as an Obama supporter, I like to say Sen.Obama is not running as a candiate for black america, he's running for presdent of united states of America.

He never has, never intented to, and never will narrowly represent a single segment of the population. And as for declining Michelle Obama, that' just ridiculous, she's an even better advocate sometimes than Barack himself, too much ego in this, nothing else mattered.

I feel sorry that he got hate mails, but tell you what, Sen.Obama cares about American people, and we care for him back, and the movement behind him is undeniable.

For those of you misinformeds, I hope time will prove his values to you, and one day you will all finally wake up!!

I used to have a great deal of respect for Tavis.....but now, he just comes across as yet another hater. He would like to think that his message of accountability is what is causing all the stir, when in fact its (1) His tone-although he tries to hide it, he hates that Obama is getting the attention that he is so used to in the black community; (2)His assumption that black people are so ignorant that we would vote for someone simply because they're black; and (3)His assumption that black people need him to tell us to take a reality check (sounds like Hillary actually).

Tavis knew full well that his impromptu invitation to the SOBU was going to cause a stir. If Barack accepted it, there would be media attention leading to the label of the 'black candidate' or if Obama declined, it would be an opportunity for Tavis to spew his rhetoric that Obama doesn't care about the black community. Either way, it wasn't going to be good for Obama.

Obama is running for President of the United States. He has a full pre-planned schedule, and Tavis knew that. It was a challenge, and I'm proud that Obama didn't fall for the bait. And quite frankly, considering how Tavis, Charles Ogletree, and Cornel West dogged Obama out at the SOBU last year, even if Obama didn't have anything else to do, I couldn't blame him for declining.

Tavis, you are important to the black community, but just not as important as you think you are.

It is a shame that some comments in this blog are clear evidence that for many Obama followers reverse discrimination is OK. What a way to unite americans around their leader!

It is a shame that some comments in this blog are clear evidence that for many Obama followers reverse discrimination is OK and still want us to believe their new prophet will be able to unify America.

Tavis, your State of the Black Union should have accepted an appearance by Mrs. Michelle Obama. Senator Obama is in the middle of a very tough campaign where he is BEHIND in the polls. I am certain that if Senator Clinton offered to send her husband or daughter as a surrogate, you would have accepted.

Secondly, your State is absolutely shameful. I saw your State once, and was embarassed by the lack of decorum, the "up in heres" and the ghetto slang. I shuddered at the thought that other people in other countries would see those shenanigans and judge all black folks by the buffoonish behavior. The State that I saw was some kind of Soul Train.. Mama' House mix. I believe I wrote you about it.
You need to lift your standards and conduct yourselves as the mature thinking people that you are.

I have never ever seen any other ethnic group exhibit such minstrel behavior. I will not be watching your State because it is too painful. We must establish standards of academic excellence, speaking English well, learning science and foreign languages and be ready to compete.

In spite of the very distressing level of mintrel presentation, you ought to be honored that Mrs. Obama would have been available. Clinton ought to be taken to task about her vicious, negative, and vile personal attacks against Obama by her and/or her surrogates... Bill, Charlie Rangel..Bob & Magic Johnson. Obama and his surrogates have only spoken well of Clinton. Address that at your State and exclude the laughter, high fives, where you ats, and save them for the un-filmed after party.

In peace---let's lift up, not tear down..

Imani De la Perez

People calm down. I am going to the State of the Black Union. I support Barack Obama. Tavis Smiley can say whatever he likes about whoever he wants because that is his right. JUST AS Barack Obama can choose or not choose to go to the SOBU because that is his right. If you don't support Smiley's comments about this matter than use the power of the dollar by not listening to his broadcasts, attending his programs, or buying his books. If you think Obama is showing a blatant disregard for the issues of black people than don't vote for him. Sending Smiley death threats though and hate mail is insane and goes against everything the Obama campaign stands for. Furthermore, until you have actually taken the time to listen to what Smiley said than you can't make an educated determination if its even worth the effort to be upset. I am including the link to the commentaries Smiley made so people can do that. His comments on Obama about this matter are on 2/12 and 2/14. People get informed. http://www.blackamericaweb.com/site.aspx/sayitloud/smiley

Mrs. Obama once said that Obama needs to run for President now, "before we forget who we are."

I think Tavis is saying...."Obama has forgotten who he is."

Think about it.

Tavis Smiley who appointed u the spokesman for the black people. U need to pack up and go home, didn't u get fired from somewhere and now u just trying to promote ur show, Michelle could have represented Obama just as well if u really care about Black issues.
Tavis for every step we as black people take forward people like u manage to pull as two steps back for porposes of self promotion.
Quite it Tavis.

optik_b wrote: "These Obama supporters are starting to remind me of Hitler supporters, really insane fanatics."

Hitler supporters? Really?

Last time I checked, I haven't sent any one to a gas chamber. I haven't performed any medical experiments on innocent people. I haven't rounded up fathers and mothers and children out of their homes for routine extermination. I haven't pledged allegiance to a leader who intends to exterminate an entire race of people.

Do you intend to continue making such ridiculous statements of comparison? Is this how you present your arguments to the public, by displaying your ignorance to the entire world via the Internet, where it can be saved on a server forever?

I'm sure you'll try to pass it off as an exaggerated but innocent remark -- as if the victims of the 20th Century's worst genocide deserve to be trivialized. Unfortunately you show your true character with remarks like that.

Tavis inviting Obama to appear and his follow-on comments causes three main problems.

1) If he read the news he would have realized that Barack turned down a request from Hillary for her chosen number of debates because he wanted to hit the trail.Perhaps Tavis is not a master of deduction but he ought to have pondered the consequences for Obama viv-a-vis Texan and Ohio voters had he accepted his invitation.

2) Obama has campaigned and won Black Southern states so to accuse him of not taking seriously issues affecting Black people is not only an insult but also an affront to all those voters Perhaps Tavis feels he has been selected by Black people to front them. People are angry because of this.

3) Whether he intended it or not, he as a journalist has now become the story perhaps there is no publicity as bad publicity.

It is interesting that a man campaigning found the time to call him twice on 2 separate lines and also wrote him a latter. Obama has the right to refuse Tavis's invitation without being insulted. Or is it perhaps Tavis discovering that he needs Obama more than Obama needs him!

As for the death threats, is he accusing Obama supporters in particular, Black people in general or he rather leave it up to Hillary supporters to speculate?

"Tavis who? Oh, yeah, Tavis Smiley!" Most of the Obama-haters here wouldn't know a PBS show unless FOX went off the air. This is the most they have ever heard about Tavis Smiley since they, uh, found out about the State of the Black Union... from C-SPAN!

We finally got ALL the delegates accounted for, and here's the breakdown with no more outstanding: 1137-1008, with Obama having a narrow lead in Feb. 5th delegates.

Full breakdown: http://www.campaigndiaries.com/2008/02/delegate-breakdown-with-all-delegates.html

optik_b...."These Obama supporters are starting to remind me of Hitler supporters, really insane fanatics."
You hit the nail on the head with that statement.

You're absolutely right, mafox1, "Your comment brings me to the one vote that Obama deliberately missed: the vote on the IRAN resolution."
Very important vote, but of course he will talk to the terrorist. I prefer someone kill the terrorist, but, that's just me.
You said..."What I think it shows as a senator is that he didn't take a day to go to Washington to vote against a very important issue that he spoke out against."
I agree. Now now, trick-or-treating is more important than fighting terrorism.( I said in a smarmy tone)
God help us if he's elected, and his $845 BILLION Global Poverty Act is instituted.
We'll see if anything becomes of the Larry Sinclar accusations.

These Obama supporters are starting to remind me of Hitler supporters, really insane fanatics.

pbbrown - Your comment brings me to the one vote that Obama deliberately missed: the vote on the IRAN resolution.

During Michele Obama's interview on Larry King Live on Feb. 11, Larry mentioned that obviously Barak is special and asked her "What does he have?" She said, "This is my opinion as a wife." Some of the things she said are, "He is a phenomenal support to her and the girls. This is a guy who, in the midst of this race, hasn't missed a parent-teacher conference. He took the girls Trick or Treating. He came home for a day to buy the Christmas tree. He took me out for our anniversary." I think this shows that he is a good father and husband. What I think it shows as a senator is that he didn't take a day to go to Washington to vote against a very important issue that he spoke out against.

Pardon, I repeat myself.

mafox1, you said...."Maybe someone remembers that within the last few months, Obama was invited to participate in a march organized by black citizens (I think maybe in Louisiana)and he declined, saying there were a lot of senate votes going on."
You are aware I'm sure that obama's missed 40% or 170 votes.
He's missed more than the hildabeast. She stands at missing 24% or 108 votes.
Whatever he's doing with his free time, he ain't voting.

mafox1, you said...."Maybe someone remembers that within the last few months, Obama