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Can Oprah's clout put Obama in the White House?

ALAN FREEMAN

From Thursday's Globe and Mail

Latest comment posted at 10:06 AM EDT 18/01/07

Can it help put Obama in the White House? ...Read the full article

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  1. Diane Schweik from EDMONTON, Canada writes: Say it ain't so BO !!
  2. A D from Canada writes: Now this makes me positively ill. Not the prospect of Obama as President; I'm all for that. I mean celebrities sticking thier noses into and influencing politics and politicians. Nothing against Oprah, either. She's got more brains than the usual Hollywood sort. Unfortunately the thought of these 'actors' and 'singers', whose only talents are for exposing thier private parts in public and on screen, trying to use thier 'influence' to sway politicians on serious issues does now, and always has, nauseated me. Yes, Bono and Bob Geldoff have done some good work and eventually came to know about what they spoke of, but Bono, at least, is still irritating. The mere mention of Celine Dion's antics in attempting to join their league by inanely insulting the president of the US, still makes me go ill, while the thought of Britney Spears or Sharon Stone one day trying to influence policy makes me want to stick my head in the toilet and puke relentlessly. I sincerely hope others sharemy sentiments.
  3. Philip Van Bergen from Hashima, Canada writes: I'm sorry to say this Mr/Ms A D from Canada, but it is surely better for American celebrities to stick their noses in American elections than having Canadians try to do the same. It is their country, and they can do what they like. That's what all those lobby groups and 'Americans for ......' groups do. Let them do what they want. If Canadian singers/actors/athletes want to get involved with our elections, then so be it. Go for it. As for Mr Obama, personally he seems to be a good man.
    But I don't vote in US elections, so it doesn't really matter anyway!
  4. Vickky Angstrom from Calgary, Canada writes: Anything that gets North Americans into the habit of voting at all is fine with me.
  5. a l from Toronto, Canada writes: This is just more proof of the willingness of some Americans to just follow what their media gurus tell them without thinking for themselves. It is one thing to promote a book on a talk-show. It is quite another thing to use one's celebrity and admitted influence on public opinion to sway voters. Barack Obama may very well be a good candidate for that country's highest office. But the 'Oprah factor' will add a measure of media influence which just deadens the brain cells of those who should think for themselves.
  6. some Name from Calgary, Canada writes: I really like everythign I have heard about Obama and think he would be much better than any President in recent memory. But I wonder if certain parts of the US are ready to elect a black man (Obama), or a woman (Hillary Clinton) as president. I wonder if either of selecting either candidate helps the republicans. Very few people like George Bush in 2004, but the democrats chose a candidate who actually testified on behalf of North Vietman in the 70s - did he even have a chance in the south, in rural America - or was the selection of Kerry the equivalent of handing the Presidency to Bush? And will the democrats do it again?
  7. Dark Angel from The West, Canada writes: Her endorsement of Obama could have a negative result as well. I want to hear more from this man and what he stands for. I do not believe in political 'Messiahs' and never will. You can't go to the front row unless you're qualified. The current president is proof of that!
  8. nigel martin from montreal, Canada writes: This is not really about celebrities meddling in politics, although I agree that it is often sickeningly narcisistic. It is about a celebrity jumping onto a band wagon and the media happily encouraging it. (Of course the media loves it; it sells papers). Obama is doing very well on his own, thank you. He will win or lose it on his own. The entry of celebrity backing, abetted by sensationalist and misleading headlines ('Oprah's clout...') is a mockery of democracy and the capacity of ordinary citizens to determine themselves the best leader. Sure, we blow it sometimes... (Hello Mr. Bush), but in the long run I will take the collective view of citizens over the elitist media views anyday. As for the influence of celebrities, their real and potential influence is overrated. Yes, Bono got a meeting with the then Canadian PM (Paul Martin) quicker than any ordinary Canadian citizen could. Why? Because it is a photo op for the PM. And yes, the PM smiled for the cameras and said wonderful things, but as soon as they were both out of camera range the political process went back immediately to where it was before.
  9. Anon, name thy rag from Haligonia, Canada writes: For those of you worried about Hollywood entertainment types influencing peoples' votes - Almost all of Hollywood was against Bush - and quite vocally so - didn't make much of a difference did it.........
  10. maryetta thielen from Lethbridge, AB, Canada writes: So what if Obama looses, will that be the end of Oprah. Maybe it is time for a very inexperienced person to be President of the USA and commander in chief. The libs, environMENTALists, democrats and other left wing wackos have been working for the defeat of America for years. The bad thing is they don't realize that when the terrorists win, they will be the first to be killed.
  11. Christopher B from United States writes: How pathetic. This just shows how mindless the looney left Dems are if they are so willing to cast their vote based on what a 'celebrity' such as Oprah Winfrey says. What ever happened voting for a candidate based on their views and platform? Seems like only the Republicans are concerned with actually having a plan to govern. The Dems are just about appearances, but yet they have no real substance or ability to lead the nation.
  12. g m from Toronto, Canada writes: so according to Chris Jenkins, Oprah has supported Obama because he is Black and because two or three rappers made comments about her target audience. could not be because she has carefully looked at the issues and what Obama has to offer and feels that he is the best candidate. yup you got it..it was decided at the annual meeting of all Black people that all Black people are to support Obama. I mean what other criteria would a Black person need but to be Black to get the Black vote..you are a real fool.
  13. Robert Luedeman from Philistia, United States writes: It is awfully disheartening to think that this is how far the process of selecting a political leader has sunk. Once Obama is touched with Oprah's magic wand, the Oprah droids will punch the levers in the voting booth on command-regardless of whether he's got anything worthwhile to contribute beyond a pretty face. That's going to always tag him with the lightweight label.

    Anyway, we already elected a black President, he just wouldn't admit it.

    But never mind. A Democrat will be elected president in 2008, it doesn't matter which one. It could be a potted palm or Cal Worthington's dog Spot.
  14. Andrew H from London, Canada writes: For all those saying it makes them sick that Dems/Americans would vote based on what Oprah says.....I agree. However, you have to re-read the article....all it's saying is that Oprah has a HUGE influence when she spouts out her opinion on things (this is completely undeniable.....30 million viewers a week??.....that's influence).

    And to Icantbelievethat lufthasabrain:

    If you seriously judge whether 'black'=progressive based on Colin Powell and Condy Rice....you're insane. First of all....THEY'RE BOTH PART OF BUSH'S ADMIN. Of course they're going to be somewhat similar to him in their views. I'm pretty sure we can all agree that Obama is much more progressive than either of those two....
  15. True Grit from Calgary, Canada writes: chris jenkins from Free the West, do you always spew such vitrolic hate? Have some respect for the dead and let us hope that when you die, none of us on this discussion board will wish for your ignorant self to 'rot in hell'. You come off as just another looney westerner.
  16. Some Guy from Canada writes: If Oprah ran, she'd probably stand a good chance of winning, so in that regard, I think it's interesting that she's endorse a candidate... But Obama is probably the most promising candidate out there (Sorry Hillary) and why not throw your support behind him? Regardless of colour? Personally, I want to see who Jimmy Carter supports... (He's still alive, isn't he?)
  17. Legal Eagle from Smiths Falls, Canada writes: Is Christopher B. a comedian? Democrats loony? The greatest nation on earth...maybe in history...and the best you could do is George W.? His father would have picked him as least likely to succeed in the immediate family! A mediocre student, who appears to struggle with English as a second language, failed oilman, failed baseball owner...who's greatest aspirations were becoming Baseball Commissioner...who avoided serving his country in time of war...but didn't hesitate to send thousands of young Americans to their death based on false/misleading claims of WMD in Iraq.
    Obama may or may not prove to be the best choice...but he's intelligent, articulate....a self-made success....The U.S. could (and certainly has) done worse.
  18. Doug Dewan from Canada writes: maryetta thielen - You can't be that paranoid can you?

    'Maybe it is time for a very inexperienced person to be President of the USA and commander in chief'

    So are you suggesting that the current administration is experienced?
  19. Peter Persad from Clearwater BC, Canada writes: Yes, she can. Look for the Obama/ Winfrey ticket in 2012. Hopefully she doesn't get assassinated by the extreme right. Remember the furor she caused over hamburger and the suit by the US Cattlemen's Association?
  20. Combative American from Minneapolis, United States writes: First off, a couple of glaring oversights on this man. While his skin colour more closely resembles that of a black man, fact is, he is half-white. Many here are starting to call him, 'Half-rican.' Why is it that whenever a person is of mixed race, the media, who always claim no 'racial bias,' more often than not refer to them by their predominant skin colour, therein leaving out the other half of who they are, and clearly showing a racial bias? Tiger Woods is half-Asian; has anyone ever referred to him as the only 'Asian' golf champion? Fact is, Bill Clinton was much more 'black' than this gentleman is. The other fact, which there can be no dispute on, is that with the Oprah endorsement, this man's genial nature, soft but well-spoken demeaner, and smiling handsome face - now presents the Democratic Party with the 'Great Black Hope' they've been gliding towards for 35 years now. It will be very difficult to counter 30 million American women from the Oprah ranks, coupled with the media campaign to see their liberal political views finally represented by a confirmed member of 'the minority in this country,' as well as the black electorate in all they embody with regard to a chance to finally elect a Black President. Unless the Republicans have a similar neocon candidate up their sleeve, I don't see them being much of a factor in 2008. In the meantime though, Ms. Hillary is having a hissy fit over this guy. And it is she who the 'old guard' of political influence fame will rally around, as well as having the monetary means (war chest) to make all her dreams come true, leaving poor Barack to perhaps become the next Vice Presidential candidate and her running mate. In the lead up to this contest however, it is my sincere hope that Oprah and her other celebrity nabobs shut up. What ever happened to all of them moving somewhere else if GWB was re-elected in 2004? Was it perhaps that no other country wanted them either?
  21. g m from Toronto, Canada writes: Combative American: can you please define 'Black' for me if Clinton is 'more' Black than Obama. Do you feel that Clinton 'acts' Black? and if so, what is acting Black - just curious
  22. Patrick Dunn from London, Canada writes: Mr Luedeman. I suggest Mr. Dion's pooch, Kyoto, take a run at the presidency. Just think about it, Washington would be our lap dog (assuming Dion can pull it together).

    As much as it would be nice to see BO win, its funny to see the media (US) focusing on the real man and the real issues ie. comparing his fashion sense to Iran's president and making light of the fact his name is only one letter off that of the US's most wanted man.
  23. D. Clearwater from Lethbridge, AB, Canada writes: To maryetta thielen... I'm not sure what 'wacko' planet you are living on... but the US could not have elected a more inexperienced President than GWBush. If I recall, he didn't even have a passport before being elected and somehow he is supposed to an 'expert' on foreign policy? The guy that referred to Pakistanis as 'pakis'? and preemeptively invaded another foreign country (which is against international law)? And what, do you think this is 1950? The Red Scare and all those leftist commies running around undermining democracy? I supposed you liked McCarthy too? And to Christopher B: wasn't Jessie 'The Body' Ventura an independent, Sonny Bono a republican, and, well, the Terminator? It seems like people of any political stripe like to vote for celebrities. Phew... sorry... just needed to blow off some steam after reading such stupid, ideological comments.
  24. RAS Putin from United States writes: Must people who vote democrat base the decision on emotional factors, most of oprah's fans based on the article are from the suburbs making them mostly Rebublicans vote based on personal finance . She might be able to sway some, but not enough to make a difference. My opinion Obama doesn't want to be president, he wants to be VP to assist a president in winning, gain experience and hopefully be president in 8 years.
  25. Remembering the Law West of the Pecos- Jersey Lilly Saloon-Judge Roy Bean from Willowdale, Canada writes: I don't think this will ever happen! Gosh what are those folks in the U.S. trying to do....get the South to rise again?
  26. Susie Q from Canada writes: Don't go thinking for yourselves now, people. Oprah says so.
  27. Jimmy K from Toronto, Canada writes: Republican's need not be worried. If the Dem's run Obama with an Oprah endorsement, all they need to do is run a woman! That'll mess with the Oprah demographic's heads. See, no problem.
  28. Virginia Gill from Sault Ste. Marie, Canada writes: I have often thought that if Oprah Winfrey wanted, she could
    be the first black woman President of the United States.

    I worked in a Library during her book club days and know her
    massive influence on the reading public.

    Most politicians have missed her tremendous fan base.
  29. Titus Andronicus from Toronto, Canada writes: You've heard of the saying that voting for one party or the other is like voting for Tweedeldum or Tweedledee. This is because the influential financially pay the expenses of both parties while their lobby groups later influence them. In the end the two major parties only take slightly different positions from each other. You see it all the time. A party when in opposition will frequently criticize a policy that they end up continuing once they regain power. So the powerbrokers in America cannot be happy with Mr. Obama's candidacy because he has not used their support to get where he is now and thus is not beholding to them. The muckraking will begin if he becomes a Democratic front-runner and later as he runs for President, unless of course he confidentially assures the people who really matter that he will not rock the boat when in power. And you thought that "Big Brother" on George Orwell's television screen in the novel "1984" was only representative of a communist system? Not so! George Bush is the current US "Big Brother" because the real decisions are made behind him and then given to him to speak to the nation. He follows the advice of his highly influenced/lobbied advisors.
  30. John Northey from Georgetown, Canada writes: Sadly I don't think the states will be ready for either a woman or a visible minority to be president, thus the Democratic candidate will end up being John Edwards, the lawyer/VP candidate last time. Although I wouldn't be surprised if he picks Obama as the VP candidate.
  31. sharon charles from Vancouver, Canada writes: The more I read about Obama and more I see him the more I like him but I don't think even Oprah's endorsement will save him from being cannablized by the Clinton camp! He is inexperienced though I am not sure that will matter as much as it is touted, but that may leave him unprepared for the dirty work ahead. Oprah is clearly no fool and is well informed but even with her support the only hope I think Obama has is if the 'Stop Hillary' camp throws all their support behind him and he recieves public support from some known heavy weights in congress. But Oprah's influence is not a given in this case, influence on many women may not translate to influence on women who are Democrats and it is their vote that is needed to get him the nomination. The writer who thinks running a woman against Obama will be a good counter clearly does not know much about how woman often treat women in politics. Many of the anti-Hillary types are women!
  32. Robert Schmidt from Toronto, Canada writes: I have to be honest. Oprah Winfrey makes me hurl. I find the woman patronizing in the extreme, ill-informed (certainly about contemporary literature, where her tastes demonstrated a definite bias for "chick lit" of the most odious variety!)

    That having been said, I recognize that Winfrey does have some social influence among certain market niches. Whether or not she can parlay that social influence into political influence is questionable, but what is not is that Oprah's "reach" is as extensive as it is like to get. That means that these "niches" is where her appeal will reside and remain most influential.

    But that does not amount to political clout.

    As for Obama, he seems a genuine enough person. But he IS a political neophyte with no track record of political accomplishment. Political pundits are wondering "when" Obama will start delivering "facets" of his stand. It is highly questionable whether, when the chips are down, Obama has the political currency to sell himself as a credible alternative to frontrunners like John McCain (Rep) and the odious Kerry and his "married-up" take on just about everything.
  33. Gord Cee from Canada writes: Oprah has no business or political credibility with me and I suspect the same would be true to most thinking Americans. Although Obama MAY be a good candidate the presence of a yappy day time television entertainment show host could have a negative impact on any success he may have. Entertainers have come to have an inflated impression of their personal opinions and the constant verbal diarrhea coming out of their mouths turn most knowledgeable people off
  34. Blair Langmuir from Wloo, Canada writes: Does anyone else here think BO looks just like Tahj Mowry who plays TJ Henderson on Smart Guy? I'd rather have TJ run.
  35. Yaz Maziar from Toronto, writes: Senator Barack Hussein Obama says he is a Christian yet has a Muslim-sounding name. His full name is not dissimilar to that of America’s two worst enemies, recently hanged Iraqi President Saddam Hussein, and al-Qaeda leader, Osama bin Laden.

    These may be the type of cowardly inferences that Senator Obama’s political opponents could choose to make against him heading into the 2008 election.

    The religious affiliation of past presidents has been debated throughout U.S. history. John F. Kennedy had to defend himself against false accusations for being Roman Catholic. Thomas Jefferson and Abraham Lincoln were both accused of being infidels during their election campaigns as well as throughout their presidencies.

    Becoming the next American President will be difficult for Barack, and near impossible for Hussein Obama.
  36. Steve S from Western Canada, Canada writes: Listening to oprah makes as much sense as using a Ouji board. She's a moron.
  37. Jennifer Dhaliwal from Canada writes: Funny, here in Canada I remember a certain Michael Ignatieff being described in exactly the same manner as Obama: good-looking, intelligent, good communicator, etc... however, you've got to have some meat with your patatoes, and it turned out that Ignatieff didn't really stand for anything, except for maybe his own ambition. When I've heard him talk, Obama offers mere platitutes. It's easy to talk in generalities about 'hope', etc...let's see him roll out some real solutions to some of Americas big problems. Then we'll see.
    Secondly, his first name rhymes with "Osama", and his middle name is "Hussein": I'm no marketing expert, but that combination will turn off a large demographic.
    Thirdly, Oprah may have many viewers, but she's a polarizing figure: many a man feels his stomach churning when she happens to be on. She may turn some voters away from Obama if she endorses him.
    I'd stick with a proven commodity in Hillary, and run Osama for Vice-President.
  38. Cal Lee from Toronto, Canada writes: Never doubt the power of O. I have a few co-workers they follow her religiously. If Mr. Obama decides to run, he will have a large portion of Black and Hispanic voters and with Oprah influent he may also get the woman vote also.
  39. j adams from Winnipeg, Canada writes: hey G&M, why was my comment original rejected?? Do you still have it, if so then read it!!!!! It didn't directly insult anyone, contained no bad language and only contained an observation about the power of television and the media. What is going on there, I read all these slanderous insults that seem to get by your filters and my comment doesn't. It's time to tell your web person to either fix that filter or fire them and find someone who can!
  40. Tobin Manley from United States writes: a l from Toronto comments that Americans only follow mindlessly their media gurus. I hate to break it to you, but Canada has followed many American trends for the last century or more. That's not an American boast, that's a frequent lament on these very pages from those in Canada interested in a "more Canadian culture".
    A further irony is the very fact that this story is being published and commented on in the G&M.
  41. Laurie Cornell from Canada writes: Firstly I'm a woman and I don't watch daytime tv, I think it is funnyreading in this post, all sorts of comments to his skin colour, his name, his lack of policies and how he won't get elected because of this. You call women who watch daytime tv silly. Listen to yourselves. The Hussien comment I find particularly funny becuase the US propped up Saddam in his war with Iran, daddy Bush trained Osama. And a Bush resides in the White House, you would think if they hated Saddam and Osama they would have been a little more INFORMED of the connections that the Bush's had to these two individuals. Laughable. To not vote for someone because of his name in particular or his colour is truly laughable and uninformed.
  42. Titus Andronicus from Toronto, Canada writes: Laurie Cornell, the neo-cons are a bad bunch
    with no morals but their own interests. To
    them the world is a chess board and they
    play it for keeps getting their way everywhere
    at the end of a gun.

    I can just see Fox news' O'Reilly not saying
    Barack Obama anymore but rather "that Hussein
    Osama guy, oh sorry, I mean Obama guy - hey
    people, is there a difference?" This dirty trick
    play on his name will certainly be tried.
    VP for him this time around. After a few years
    as VP these cheap slurs will no longer be possible.

    Funny how people here talk about the horrible
    impact of having a talk show host support a
    Democratic candidate while having him on her
    show. This is while the neo-Republican Fox News
    channel spews neo-con rhetoric 24/7.
  43. justin hio from montreal, Canada writes: I cannot understand why this Obama man is getting all of this presidential attention, I mean the man has only 2 years experience in government! Not exactly what I would go for when I make it to the polls.

    I would rather vote for an Alan Keyes, then a junior no experience senator named Obama.
  44. Diane Schweik from EDMONTON, Canada writes: J Adams Same thing happened to me on another site with an inoffensive posting,and they don't bother to respond when you ask them why.
  45. Al B from Toronto, Canada writes: Never understood the Oprah thing. Must be a woman thing. As for celebrities using their clout to promote what or whoever, there's nothing wrong with that; I just feel sorry for the gullible fans who are so easily influenced.
  46. Lyn Alg from Canada writes: Better still, Obama, why not select Ms. Oprah as your VP running mate?
  47. Liz Reese from Canada writes: As an "informed" Amercian living in your lovely country: IF anyone REALLY cares what Barack Obama stands for and what some of his proposed solutions to America's problems are, then I suggest you read his books. They are available here in Canada and reveal a man with true humility and intelligence. This is more than I can say for the current administration and most politicians. I don't really care about his political experience. He is smart and that is more than I can say about GW or Reagan. He has real life experience.

    It would be a refreshing change.

    And if Oprah can influence American culture and society in a positive way (which is supporting a person like Barack Obama) - then all the power to her.
  48. Dosta Berche from Burkina Faso writes: but but but wait..... has anybody noticed that the guy is black ??? Surely we are not talking about the US we know so well.... The US of John Wayne, Charlton Heston, etc etc... Surely someone must have noticed that the guy is black.... What's happening to my good old US of old ??
  49. Dosta Berche from Burkina Faso writes: I wonder if Justin will jump on his bandwagon. Expect a pronouncement anytime soon...
  50. Dik Coates from Canada writes: This world is getting scarier and scarier...
  51. Roop Misir from Toronto, Canada writes: There is no doubt that Obama's race for the White House will be boosted by his appearance on Oprah's show--if we are to consider what it has done for others. As to whether it will ensure his success, that's a different matter?

    The question is: Is America really ready for change? MEANINGFUL change in the realm of politics? .. Although this was many years ago, perhaps the experience previous Presidential hopefuls like Ross Perot and Ralph Nader can shed some light on this matter.
  52. I Wish I Was In The Land Of Cotton- Folks Like Me Are Not Forgotten! from Willowdale, Canada writes: Some folks may be wise to heed an old saying:
    'Save your Confederate money - the South will rise again!'
  53. Don't Hate Me because I'm a Pro Satirist and you're not from Victoria, Canada writes: Can Oprah's clout put Obama in the White House? No, I don't think so. But Walt Disney's might can put Mickey Mouse in Walmart's and The Tooth Fairy in the Pentagon.
  54. John Robinson from Toronto, Canada writes: G M from Toronto, Dave Chappelle said it himself Clinton is really a black man "because he plays saxaphone, smokes w@@d and makes love to ugly white women" All in humour really, I liked Clinton(as well as Chappelle who should be in charge of some sort of cultural office) and he did get stuff done.
    We can only hope that people don't really vote on the basis of colour and stick to the issues but the reality of racism is that it alleviates thinking. Far easier to pigeonhole and steroetype than to examine. Since there has never been a minority on the ticket it is hard to say whether 'white' america would vote against a 'black' president based on race, it surely seems possible though. What an ugly thing, Einstein said "racism is America's greatest disease" among other things and he loved America too. I have lived there folks and was shocked at the level of racism by all categories. When faced with the truth however most are reasonable and level headed that is to say we shouldn't lose hope.
    On Obama himself, surely the media will take hacks at him as will opponents, they will attack everything about him. Unfortunately that is largely how campaigns go, even here in Canada.
    Would he make a good president, not yet. Give him time to build meaningful support in Washington over the next few years and we'll see. Oprah is not a senator or in charge of public money. The ugly truth is that politics isn't about the 'good man' or woman for that matter, it is about actually getting your job done in the face of solid opposition, that is why he needs the support. By and large though he seems like a ray of hope in an America that is starting to see the dimming of its lights. I truly hope that he and those who are like minded can start to make it to the highest offices everwhere.....and retain their virtue along the way. Absolute power corrupts absolutely.
  55. David Gill from East Talbot, Canada writes: Spot the difference: Media darling assists neophyte politician to become President. Splinter political organization assists bad movie star to become President.
    US politics has change a lot in over 25 years, hasn't it?
  56. Edward Thomas from Kingston, Canada writes: I'm no great fan of Oprah's show, but I see the synergy between her and Obama. Both practice the politics of hope, ideas and a willingness to understand things from a fresh perspective. As much as it's scary just how much cultural influence Oprah has among her fans, it's something of a relief that she's been a consistent cheerleader for self-improvement, self-education and concilliation. If she sees the same positive qualities in young Mr. Obama -- it at least provides some hope that American (and by extension, Canadian) political life can elevate itself from the depths plumbed over the last ten years.
  57. Sam B from Cambridge, Canada writes: Titus - stop using words that are beyond your comprehension level, it makes you look daft. Look up "neo-conservative", study it, and understand it's meaning before blathering away.

    I find it humorous that people are predicting Republicans will be the ones to drag Obama through the mud. Are you forgetting that he still has to win the Democratic nomination? And that the front-runner is Hillary? Hillary is not going to let anybody stand in her way, and should Obama become a legitimate threat to her, stand back and watch the fireworks!
  58. bubba licious from out of touch, Canada writes: YOu are all sheep.....

    Barack Hussein Obama (His real name) who was fathered by a Kenyan, raised by an Indonesian Muslim (Asian) and schooled in a Madrassa has little or no expereince in real world politics...(Less than 2 years).

    He is eloquant and witty, good looking and charming. He has No chance of getting the nomination. He has no support in the political machine....Clintons do, Kennedys do, Bush's do, McCain's do, Daly's do, Oprah does not.

    Hilary is the toughest man in the Dem group. She will get the nod, and have Bill Richardson as her runninmate...the first Woman Mexican ticket...they will be destoyred by the Republicans again.

    Winners always win, losers always lose.

    Democrats are too worried about frivolous prozac issues and candidates.

    Republicans are worried about money and power...there are enough people worried about money and power.....or Bush would not have been elected twice.....

    All baby boomer hippie nutjobs are deluded and self destrucitve it seems...
  59. Titus Andronicus from Toronto, Canada writes: Sam B, you demean the intelligence of your opponent to gain credibility for your point of view - a common psychological tactic. Wikipedia states the following: "Many associate neoconservatism with periodicals such as Commentary and The Weekly Standard, along with the foreign policy initiatives of think tanks such as the American Enterprise Institute (AEI) and the Project for the New American Century (PNAC). Neoconservative journalists, pundits, policy analysts, and politicians, often dubbed "neocons" by supporters and critics alike, have been credited with (or blamed for) their influence on U.S. foreign policy, especially under the administrations of Ronald Reagan and George W. Bush." Now Sir, every time I have used the word neo-con (the new conservatives), it has corresponded to the above interpretation of the term. They are the ultra-right wing. I have made no errors as far as I can determine. Next time, instead of acting like the authority in any argument, tell me why you disagree and ask NICELY if it changes my point of view or the way I have used the term. Or can you not respect anyone who is not of your opinion?
  60. Titus Andronicus from Toronto, Canada writes: Sam B, I have re-read my posts in this
    thread. Your criticism is baseless. To
    claim that a person uses words beyond
    their comprehension level when they clearly
    do not, certainly gives one your measure,
    at least at the time of your post.

    Hopefully we can put this type of
    confrontation which serves no purpose,
    behind us.
  61. mark brady from Ontario, writes: The stupidity of the American people continues to amaze me. What would happen if they actually had to think for themselves. The sheeple of the US of A are so easily misled by the bright and shiny media and its ilk. Sad.
  62. Combative American from Minneapolis, United States writes: "Can it help put Obama in the White House?" Certainly. Although I can only hope the American people are smart enough to see her support for him comes more from her concern for his skin colour and what it will mean to others like her, than for his political acumen. At least at this point in his career, anyway.

    TV and movie celebrities should absolutely be silenced throughout the campaign term of any politicians. They offer nothing of substance in either their endorsements of, or their lack of support for, any political candidate. In this regard, Oprah is no different.
  63. Combative American from Minneapolis, United States writes: Yes, Canada - we have noticed that he is black. We have also noted that he is half-white. Many in the media have started to call him, "half-rican." This is not as clearly racist a country as you may have been led to believe, and you do yourselves a great disservice in proclaiming that every thing here has a racial overtone to it. Such is not the case. The majority of people in this nation who make race an issue are the current crop of black leaders - much more so than any white officials (to do so would spell the end of their careers). The Al Sharpton's, the Jesse Jacksons, et al, are, in 90% of the cases, the ones who keep race at the front and centre of any discussions. As far as the white community goes - they could care less what colour he is, with the possible exception of a very small and miniscule group of people who still haven't made the journey into the second half of the Twentieth century. And they influence no one except their own kind. Please stop painting a portrait of America that no longer has any widespread basis in truth. It is your media's pre-occupation with so-called "American stereotypes" left over from 30 years ago that haven't absorbed the changes in American society yet. Few, if any Americans would have a problem voting for a candidate who just so happens to be of Negro heritage - and even less when that person is just as likely to be labeled, "half-white." If you look at the preponderance of black mayors of large American cities, black police chiefs, black councilmen, and a host of other "black" elected officials, you would more than likely pick up on the fact that most of us really don't care about one's skin colour so much as we care about the job we "hope" they do, once elected. It is YOUR ignorant and biased commentary on American societal values and operating procedures that are true measure of "indignant bias." And I, for one, have had more than my fair share of it from "mis-informed Canadians."
  64. maryetta thielen from Lethbridge, AB, Canada writes: Can anyone here name just on person, who upon being sworn in as President of the USA, has had experience in that position. Thought so, not one. So, the inexperience crap thrown at Bush is a non issue. However, name one person who, upon being sworn in as President of the USA has not had experience as either, mayor, state legislator, govenor, president of an organization of some sort, business experience etc. That is what the complaint against BHO is. If he should win, he will be forever tagged with -he got the black vote, he won because he is black, he got the muslim/black vote. If he loses he will be tagged with, he lost because he is black, muslim, his name. However, it does seem that the democrats will nominate either -the first woman, first black, first Hispanic. One of those three will be on the ticket, possibly as VP. However, Hillory would not be the first woman to run as VP. The senate has a one seat majority. With two senators out on the campaign trail, for the next 2 years, things could get interesting with votes. And, complaining about voters being led by the entertainment crowd, or the media with a bias, think of voters in the GTA, the cbc and the liberals. Also take note of the declining readers, viewers, boxoffice, and music sales. Just maybe all those entertainment types spouting their anti Bush crap for 6 years has turned off all the Bush supporters from spending their money on their products.
  65. Carly MacKay from United States writes: Christopher B from the United States writes "This just shows how mindless the looney left Dems are if they are so willing to cast their vote based on what a 'celebrity' such as Oprah Winfrey says. " So is your arguement that if I vote for Obama it is because Oprah told me to? NO! I don't even watch Oprah and I am her target audience - female, middle class and suburban. I admire her and respect her and would take her adivice on shoes and even a good book, but to suggest Democrats would go to the voting booths with no other information on a candidate than that Oprah supports him and vote for him is preposterous. If Obama wins it is because he is the best person for the job and courageous enough to clean up Bush's mess. I have no problem with Oprah strongly supporting Obama. She has earned the respect of millions in this country. It's not like Paris Hilton or Britney Spears are doing it. If that was the case we could all have a good laugh.
  66. Titus Andronicus from Toronto, Canada writes: The people who object to Oprah chiming
    into presidential politics are those who
    only want political hacks to tell us how to
    vote - hacks from FOX, CNN and their
    political friends.

    This crowd wants to keep everyone stupid.
    They consider themselves superior and
    thus deserving of the "right" to think for
    the masses.

    When "independent" voices chime in, they
    are the first to cry foul.
  67. Terry H from Moncton, Canada writes: Almost not even worth a comment. Just another black person/celebrity endorsing another black person/celebrity. Same old, same old. Funny though, she never said boo about any "good" white politicians all these years. Could it be she is secretely racist against whites? Oh my. Now we will have Jesse Jackson and his like spewing all sorts of crap throughout this campaign. It's gonna get dirty and racist in the good ol USA for this election. God help us all after this one is over. LOL.
  68. Canadian in UAE from United Arab Emirates writes: I wonder if you will ever see Oprah supporting any non-black person.
  69. James Goodwin from New Orleans, LA, United States writes: Iam from New Orleans, Louisiana and I frequently travel to Toronto, Ontario for many business trips. Other then a sign saying welcome to Canada, I couldn't tell the difference. ALMOST everything is the same in both countries and here in the USA each state is different(just like each province in CA is different(Different laws, traditions, racial groups, leaders etc.) Compare this.. Each American state has VERY different groups of people other then the traditional White/European descent. Some states have virtually all imigrants, some have virtually none & same goes with Canada. For Example: New York (Black), Georgia(Black), California(Hispanic/Asian), Oklahoma(Native), South Dakota(Native), Florida(Hispanic), Illinois (White/Black/Arab), Vermont(French), Louisiana(Black) Texas(Spanish) See, it's different. Now lets look at Canada: British Columbia(Asian), Ontario(Speaks for itself..MULTICULTURAL), Saskatchewan(NATIVE) Quebec(French) Nunavut(Native Eskimo) Manitoba(Native) Alberta(Middle-East) See, it's different too. Both Countries vary, and Canada has a large base of black population too (The Underground Railway) but , the US does have a larger black community (Do i need to get into detail why?) Try this.. Same country.. just different states/cities: Go to downtown Des Moines, IOWA, then go to downtown Atlanta, Georgia. Where is there more blacks??? Yes thats right, GA & The southern states. But the southern states are like that BECAUSE OF THE CIVIL WAR, BECAUSE OF THE SLAVERY. People need to grow up get facts straight & stop being so god damn racist. Being from New Orleans(VERY LARGE black population) the black people DO need to get over themselves because not everybody is racist and they aren't the only ones who are victims of racism.. why is it that only the racism towards BLACK people is all we care about? Asian, Arabs, Whites are all victimims and thats the problem, it's not just blacks who are victims.
  70. Paul Jones from kitchener, Canada writes: she should keep quiet. im so sick of celebs feeling they have the Right to weigh in on politics when most of them cant even tie their own shoes. time to start putting these people in their places and tell them to stick to their make-believe shows. Oprah is so irrelevent to anyone who's not addicted to television (and even then shes a waste of time) that i dont even see why she has such pull. but after 20 years you just have to accept the fact that there are a lot of dum dums out there. 'Oh, Oprahs so great this. and Oprahs so smart that.' right. from what ive seen shes the typical dum dum talk show host. she just generates a bit more sympathy 'cause she cries all the time. im so sick of hearing about her in connection with Obama. youd think he was going to make her his vice president.
  71. Titus Andronicus from Toronto, Canada writes: James Goodwin from NO, thanks for the
    informative post. What you mention about
    the ethnic breakdown in various states is
    not usually known by us Canucks.

    And good luck to NO on its recovery.
  72. bruce rideout from Victoria B.C., Canada writes: Oprah please buy the white house, paint it black, and give it to a homeless family. The whole world will sigh in collective love. xoxo
  73. Paul Jones from kitchener, Canada writes: Titus - id tend to agree. but considering i see Oprah as not overly bright, i would say that her weighing in on politics is 'keeping everyone stupid.' ignorant people shouldnt be praised for shouting at others.
  74. admore inches from Toronto, Canada writes: I'm currently reading Barack's book 'The Audacity of Hope' (it's a great read, by the way). I don't think he has much of a chance at becoming president, but I see no problem with Oprah endorsing him.

    James Goodwin, great post. Canadians always pride themselves on being 'different' than Americans, but we have more similarities than differences.

    When I go to Europe, I'm always asked what state I am from - and I always say Ontario (hey, I figure we will be part of the US sometime in the future anyway).
  75. Anti Fascist from Coombs BC, Canada writes: I don't think so either, particularly after watching the flick "the Century of the Self" here is a link to it.
    http://currentera.com/blog/?p=1153
  76. The Natrix from Toronto, Canada writes: It will definitely help him, but I would love to see how she reacts when Obama and Hillary go at it.

    Actually, I would like to see Obama marry Oprah for the duration of the campaign, and then set up a spousal debate between Oprah and Bill.
  77. F/A josquin from van, Canada writes: Chrisopher B from the United States, be quiet.

    "This just shows how mindless the looney left Dems "

    What in heaven's name are you talking about. What stupid terms , If you must bad mouth a group at least use English would you.

    Left- leaning Democrats and liberals will do just fine, and maybe, maybe someone will listen to you. Although I am sure what you have to say will be just as simple.
  78. Maritime Canuk from Canada writes: I have to agree with Vickkey A. VOTE it's your democratic duty. If you don't you do not deserve to be in this country.
  79. joe cormorant from Canada writes: Oprah will sell another book when it's all over: "How I Helped Obama" and it will be all about her. This will be one interesting Democratic leadership race. A white woman whose husband cheated on her - gets all the women votes because they can relate (except she dosn't have the self respect to distance her from her frump dufus of a husband) And then there is Obama. A symbol of all immigrants and visible minorities. Decisions decisions.
  80. c rob from halifax, Canada writes: People are free to listen and be influenced by anyone in a political debate. Who cares if it is Oprah? The average, everyday American can make his or her own mind up on the subject. That's their choice.

    Furthermore, it is not Oprah who is the threat now is it? It is a sensational press who could no more report a simple fact than they can uphold integrity. Witness news reporting on Iraq, Iran, etc., etc. etc.
    And we are bothered by Oprah's influence? C'mon everyone......think
  81. Cassidy Noca from London, United Kingdom writes: Last I checked celebrities are citizens of their nations and have every right to participate fully in the political process, and dare I say, influence political outcomes. Why should they check their political badges at the door once they enter the limelight? I have heard uninformed political opinions from the famous and non-famous alike and I see no reason to begrudge Oprah the influence she has earned. If the American people happen to agree with her, for whatever reason, and elect Obama, that is the logical extension democracy.
  82. William Ashley from Waterloo, Canada writes: obama sounds like osama b in laden .. is it him or hilary?

    bear in mind |President Bush I bet was largely elected on his father coat tails.. could obama get in ... for that matter would osama have a chance of election after him, stupid I know. Nice for opera to say. I'm a dem, if you like me, vote dem. Is america left with the first woman or black president.. or a 3rd term gop for president
  83. William Ashley from Waterloo, Canada writes: hold on, what if oprah won, the first black woman president!!! I can see it now. she could have geusts in the oval office. Maybe like world leaders and other famous people.. it could be called President Oprah .. sorta a title thing to match Dr. Phil

    wonder how hard it would be to pitch

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