One thing is for certain about the Dems.', they are a party of racists and bigots. They are fast becoming a real joke this election season. Their motto is..."Do as i say ,...not as i do. I'm sure bill "Hussein" r. will shortly comment about this because he likes to call out racists and bigots.....right bill ?

Top class, Clinton campaign, top class.

"He happens to be very lucky to be who he is."

And the conclusion must be that Hillary Clinton is unlucky to be a multi-millionaire, former First Lady who grew up in a upper class Chicago suburb with wealthy and influential parents (2 of them) and the best education money could buy. Or perhaps George Bush is the unlucky one, growing up in one of the country's wealthiest families with everything at his disposal.

If Obama is the privileged one, that must make Clinton on the level of Queen Elizabeth.

And Hillary would not be where she is if she were a white man either. In fact, she would be no where were she not married to a former president. Most politicians don't get to start their careers as Senators. Some of them (like Barack Obama) actually work their way up the system. Does Ferraro really want to go down this path?

> political commentator for Fox News

That should explain her racist comment

Obama wouldn't be where he is if he didn't have a gift for communicating and connecting with people. Period, the end. The last president who was as gifted as he is in this regard was Reagan. Does Geraldine Ferraro really want to argue that black men occupy a privileged position in society? I'm happy to take her up on that claim.

Moreover, Clinton wouldn't be where she is if she hadn't lucked out and married one ambitious SOB. So Geraldine can shut that crap down.

I used to respect her; I no longer do. She's as an idiot, and Clinton ought to distance herself as far as possible from Ferraro. Way to go, Gerri. Way to help out your preferred nominee.

Well, I want to thank Geraldine for playing not only the race card and implying that my support of Obama is only because he's black but also playing the gender card and giving us yet another shot of "Boohoo the liberal media is too mean to Clinton" for our wannabe Victim-in-Chief.

You gett'em, girlfriend!

Geraldine:

Next time you complain, remember what you and Mondale did to our party in 1984. You two set the Democratic Party so far back that we are still recovering from it.

Your reward was getting a job at Fox News.

I have never liked Ferraro, but what she said is true about Obama. Just tell me again what his qualifacations are to be president. The truth be told, many are caught up in his blackness, and the fact is that, he is only half black. His mother was white as snow. I think it is racist for people to call him "black."

The only thing more irrelevant than this story if Ferraro herself.

"If Obama was a white man, he would not be in this position," Ferraro told the newspaper. "And if he was a woman (of any color) he would not be in this position. He happens to be very lucky to be who he is. And the country is caught up in the concept."

What an absolutely meaningless statement.

He is what he is.

And Ferraro is what she is - a mediocrity.

I love the fact that the issues and challenges of this unique race for the white house are allowing the world to see the true selves of some these reknown political actors. I would have never known Hillary had bi-polar tendecies had she not begged for that last debate which she described as one where she was being asked too many questions. Go Figure. Thanks Geraldine, everyone knows it's easy for a black man to just coast right into the top seat in the country cause their the US's favorite group. WOW.

Wow! What an eye-opener this campaign season has been for a poor, delusional, fairy-tale, fantasyland, Pollyanna, pie-in-the-sky nice, black Democratic like me. Here I thought we were all a united party and we'd all get behind a candidate that has shown he's got the stuff ON ALL LEVELS.

But, sigh, I guess not. Instead said candidate gets denigrated by his own party for being "just black and lucky" and his supporters are labeled "just emotional and not right thinking in their support" of this "just black" candidate.

Silly me! Why didn't I think to go Independent sooner!

When will Hillary reject & denounce Ferraro?

I won't hold my breath.

This woman's comments only strenghten my belief that this country isn't ready to elect a black president.

Well, he is half white, Geraldine, so that makes him every bit as much a "white man" as a "black man."

HELLO: Geraldine, Obama is half-white.

As a conservative backing Senator McCain, I tend to agree with some of what Ferraro said about Senator Obama; although clearly she appears to have said it in a manner that comes off as racist. I think Senator Obama is doing so well for two main reasons---first, he is offering, far more than anyone else, a brilliantly eloquent appeal to bipartisanship and national reconciliation to an electorate clearly fed up with 16 years of he said/she said partisan sniping. And second, he is a "black" (actually, mixed race) leader who does not in any way frighten most white people who (through white guilt or just common sense) are eager to heal our nation's racial wounds---as opposed to black leaders like Jackson, Sharpton, et al, who are very capable leaders but who have a whiff of hostility and retribution about them. It's no accident that Senator Obama launched his campaign at the Old State Capitol. He fashions himself as a Lincoln Democrat---a statesman, a gentleman, a reconciler, a healer. Thus far, America is clearly agreeing with him on that. Time will tell if the trend holds.

This is proof positive for all black people across America that the democRATic party really doesn't care about you.

If they can't get your vote the racist remarks start rolling off their tongues.

Their hypocrisy has no limits.

Paulo

More sour grapes from a Clinton supporter. More racist statements from the Clinton campaign which is having a hard time dealing with the fact that they are losing. Obama has worked hard to get where he is today. Unless you were raised by a single parent and have faced the major disadvanatages that puts you in you have no idea. "Lucky" is definitely not what Obama is but "persavering" would be a proper adjective.

I suppose Ferraro's argument is that Obama is here because of Political affirmative action. The irony is her political career is more of a reflection of that so who is she to pass judgment? She spent less than 6 years as U.S. representative before becoming a V.P. candidate.

Obama has paid his due, he took out loans to go to Columbia and then Harvard law school. Was president of Harvard law review. He spent 8 years in Illinois senate and 3 years in U.S. senate before running for president.

On the other hand Hillary got to the senate because she was the wife of Bill Clinton. She wasn't even a resident of New York. She only has 7 years of elected office experience. Without Bill Clinton, Hillary will be a nobody much less a presidential candidate.

Ferraro's comment at best is a case of the kettle calling the pot black. She's a worthless has been that's only remembered as the "token" VP in 1984. Besides that free ride, she hasn't earned anything else for herself (3 failed senatorial runs).

Here is audio:
Its Ferraro on the John Gibson show.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fqL_sm0J8jc

The fact that Hillary and her reps are able to play both the "fighter" card and the victim card is undeniably anti-feminist. The media could, if they wanted, rehash Whitewater, Hillary's offensive statements under oath and in public regarding Bill's escapades in which she implied the women were trash, her shady investments, and her arrogant and disastrous attempt at universal health care. As a woman who has fought sexism all my life, I feel I'm a pretty fair judge of biased media. Sure, sometimes it's sexist. It's also racist. More than anything, it's lazy. If you lose 11 contests in a row, the story will be that you lost. If you use negative attacks that seem desperate, that's going to get reported, too. Last year, Clinton was the darling of the media. Now, it's suddenly turned? Don't think so. Ms. Ferraro, a woman I once respected, by implying that Obama has gotten a free ride because he is black (and not because he is remarkably intelligent, an incredible organizer, hardworking, and a man of great character and charisma) presents herself as a racist fool. Ask any white American what they would choose if tomorrow they had to wake up and be a young black male somewhere in America, or a young white woman, and the realities of what's fair and unfair in this country would hit you like a ton of bricks. The sexism and sexual harassment faced by women (including myself) today is nothing compared to the significantly higher mortality rates, lower education rates, higher unemployment rates, and day-to-day discrimination faced by young black men. Ask Ms. Ferraro if she would rather go into white-owned stores as a young black man or a young white woman. Ask her if she would rather get pulled over by the cops as a white woman or a black man...if she'd rather apply for a loan as a white woman or a black man. These women who live their lives centered around the discrimination they faced in the 50's need to come visit me as I teach at my public high school in Baltimore. They need a serious reality check.

Affirmative action should end.

It does diminish the self worth a person feels.

If you can't look in the mirror and say to yourself "I did it on my own" affirmative action is a negative influence on a person's self-esteem.

I believe that Ferraro has a point.

Geraldine Ferraro is right on. He certainly would not be where he is if he was anything but a black male. The blacks will vote for anyone that is an African-American. The others are caught up in this hopeful rhetoric that is simply just motivating speeches. I am a Clinton supporter and if she does not make it to the Democratic nomination, I will vote for McCain and make sure everone that I know and come across does the same. How soon people forget about putting a relatively unknown as President. Remember Jimmy Carter?? Enough said!esidentian am e

Of course some Clinton surrogate will play the "race" card and the "gender" card!

Unless you've been asleep the last decade, you should be aware that's all the political Left does is play the race, class and gender cards.

Why should Clinton or Obama change what has worked so well for them (and other Democrats) in the past?

One thing is for certain about the Dems.', they are a party of racists and bigots. They are fast becoming a real joke this election season. Their motto is..."Do as i say ,...not as i do. I'm sure bill "Hussein" r. will shortly comment about this because he likes to call out racists and bigots.....right bill ?

Posted by: Don B. | March 11, 2008 9:49 AM

Don B, FU Manchu!!! Turd.

Geraldine Ferraro really is quite pathetic. I saw her on The News Hour (PBS) and she attempted to put out the company line about Obama and experience. Bill Bradley shut that down big time by bringing up the fact that all Mrs Clinton did in her travels was drink tea and eat cookies. Not exactly much of an arguement for election to the highest office in the land. Poor Geraldine sat there looking like the Clinton stooge she is. After that Mr Bradleys comments were backed up by the female panelist who had covered Hillary during the Clinton presidency.

When the Clinton people open their mouths it just makes the difference between Mr Obama and the sleezy Clintons. Barack Obama shows more leadership qualities on any given day due to his superior character and judgment, than Mrs Clinton has shown in a lifetime. She is well aware of the fact that without Barack Obama she would have no chance of winning a general election. The only problem with that is the fact that she is LOSERING to Mr Obama.

I also hear that the Clintons are wrangling behind the scenes to get Hillary on the Obama ticket once he defeats her. Which surely he will.

I look forward to the day when this mess is put to rest.

Obama 2008

p.s. Don B, your comment was typically pathetic. Get back under your rock with your friend, and like minded troglodyte Paulo.

Again, any critique of Obama and it's called racist. Obama-bots, that's a tired tune. Ever hear of backlash?

Obama has very much had luck on his side. Not luck, in his hard work to get through Harvard Law School. But he was lucky to win the notice of a top fund-raiser and backer (Rezko), lucky to be kind of hand-chosen in his Senate (state) race, lucky to have competitors implode in his US Senate raceand enormously lucky to have been selected to do the Keynote address in 2004. Do not say he hasn't had an extraordinary run of luck COUPLED WITH LOTS AND LOTS OF HARD WORK, to get where he is. To deny his luck is to be disenguous.

(And I'm an Obama supporter, by the way.) But I'm also a woman, and I've been stunned by the sexist coverage in this race.

Yes, he's lucky to be called a Muslim terrorist! I agree!!!

"This is proof positive for all black people across America that the democRATic party really doesn't care about you.

If they can't get your vote the racist remarks start rolling off their tongues.

Their hypocrisy has no limits.

Paulo"

Paulo,

you are so right...all of this has shown me what I have always suspected...the dems want my vote but does not want to work for it or respect my intellect or who I am as a person...I am really leaving this party and going independent...

For crying out loud Jeff, his skin is black! If you had no idea who Obama was and he was walking towards you would say to yourself, Hey look a black man.

Geraldine Ferraro needs to be reminded that she was not given a fare shake when running for president, not because she is a woman, but because she is Italian and alleged to have family and or close ties with the Mafia.
Once again the ugly side of Race rears its head.

Typical psuedo-liberal racist commentary.
Obama should know his place! How dare he spit on the silk slippers of the benevolent masters!
Of course, what do you expect from a Clinton supporter.
By the way, why are there no comments regarding Park Ridge, IL the (at the time) all white segregated community where Hillary was raised?

Ferraro's statements are entirely race-tinged sour grapes. But here's a thought: Would Obama be where he is if he had failed to connect with 80 to 90 percent of black voters -- you know, those votes that served as an equalizer of sorts against Hillary early on? Would he have won South Carolina, for instance, if his skin was white? Remember, before 2008, the Clintons were held in high regard by many African-American voters. Could a white man, regardless of his "ability to communicate," have been able to pry those votes away from Hillary the way Obama has done? Doubtful.

And if Geraldine Ferraro had been a man? There's no way that Walter Mondale would have made a CongressMAN from Queens his running mate in '88.

The Clintons are now the lunatic (right-wing) fringe of the Democratic Party with their race-baiting and fear-mongering and war-mongering.

And if Geraldine Ferraro had been a man? There's no way that Walter Mondale would have made a CongressMAN from Queens his running mate in '84.

The Clintons are now the lunatic (right-wing) fringe of the Democratic Party with their race-baiting and fear-mongering and war-mongering.

If Obama "was" a white man

It's "were" Geraldine, go back to grammar school. Good grief.

There's no limit to how low they can go. This statement by Geraldine Ferraro is 10 times more vicious (as well as bigoted) as the "monster" comment (which happens to be true, as this episode proves). Will she resign? Will HRC denounce and reject this outrageous show of racism? Wait, she was happy to perpetuate the Obama Muslim rumor with her "as far as I know." Too much to ask for her to reject THIS.

Would she be where she is if she wasn't the former first lady who turned a blind eye on her husband's misogyny because she had her eyes set on the senate? Women are voting for her because she's a woman. She wouldn't be where she is if she wasn't one.

Is it just me or does anyone else think that its a sign of progress when a former VP nominee says that a candidate has an unfair advantage because he is black?

The irony in Ferraro's classless statements are thick. What was her qualification to be Mondale's running mate? Was she really the best running mate or the best female running mate?

If Obama were not a black man he wouldnt be in the favorable position he is in.

If Geraldine werent a woman, she wouldnt have been on the democratic ticket in 1984.

"He happens to be very lucky to be who he is.." Yes, we've had so many black (or half black) presidents I've simply lost count. The Clinton campaign and surrogates are starting to grasp at straws.

No person except a natural born Citizen, or a Citizen of the United States, at the time of the Adoption of this Constitution, shall be eligible to the Office of President; neither shall any Person be eligible to that Office who shall not have attained to the Age of thirty-five Years, and been fourteen Years a Resident within the United States.

Above are the qualification for being president of the US; I believe OBAMA meets every one of them.

The blacks will vote for anyone that is an African-American.
Posted by: LINDA | March 11, 2008 11:08 AM

Would that be any different than the extremely religious voting for anyone extremely religious? Would that be any different than you as a white woman voting for a white woman? Those blacks...huh?

Ms. Ferraro says she loves her children, grandchildren & her life - what happened to the felonious husband who was convicted for a fraudulent real estate deal? also her mixed up son who was convicted of selling cocaine? We do appreciate her rising to the occasion of being this week's Hillary Clinton surrogate to play the "race card" against Barack Obama. Both Clinton & Obama have uphill climbs in this country to become president, and Clinton had a huge head-start. I realize that the Clintonites (Ms. Ferraro was an Ambassador to somewhere under the Clinton administration but could never get elected to the U.S. Senate) will never admit that the reason Obama is ahead of Clinton is because: (1) he's smarter (never flunked a bar exam, for example); (2) he's wonderful to listen to; (3) he's right on the biggest issue of our times (the Iraq War); and (4) yes, Hillary, people (who are not paid/favor-promised campaign staffers, racists, bigots or stupid) "like" him more than you b/c, Hillary, despite what Barack said in NH you not definitely not "likeable enough".

Paulo,

you are so right...
Posted by: Disgusted Dem | March 11, 2008 11:25 AM

If you believe Paulo...hurry..don't let the door hit ya where the good lord split ya.

Just because someone doesn't like Hillary doesn't make them a sexist. Neither are you a racist if you don't like Obama or an agist if you don't like McCain. Thinking like that is ridiculous....

Ferraro is absolutely correct. Obama is one of the most contrived candidates ever. From his deceitful, but focus-group tested message of "change" to his overrehearsed and stilted speech pattern, Obama is like a juvenile mind control experiment.

Obama is a robotic cult leader like we haven't seen since the days of Jim Jones and David Koresh. Many clearly has swallowed the Kool-Aid, but the rest of America won't drink it come November. Whether black, white, green or purple, Obama is a dangerous hack.

Julie, luck is an understatement. Obama was manufactured by the Chicago/Illinois Democratic machine. He backed into the Senate when the leading candidates in the primary and general election imploded due to marginal moral issues. He continues to support the corrupt Chicago/Cook county establishment. And his campaign is full of the same. Beware America, Chicago style corruption is coming your way.

Who and what you are has some impact on whether or not you have a shot at becoming president. Does anyone think Hillary would be in there if she hadn't been Bill's bride? Obama is far more self made than she is so lets cut the crud. And that is coming from someone who is not even an Obama fan or a Democrat.

Neither Clinton nor Obama would be where they are if they weren't capable, smart, energetic, and hard-working Senators of the United States. That she is a woman and he is black/bi-racial is very appealing to a democratic electorate that's overwhelmingly made up of non white males (ie-minorities and women). Nothing wrong with voting for qualified appealing candidates who are not WHITE MALES!

To: Posted by: LINDA | March 11, 2008 11:08 AM

Makes no difference who you vote for -- Clinton or McCain. They both represent the same thing: status quo.

One more reason why I support Obama.

Personally I do not care if Clinton is a woman or man, I do not like her and do not appreciate her tactics and abrasive ways. I'd be more than happy to vote for a woman as long as they were suitable for the job, she however, is not.

Geraldine Ferraro: 'If Obama was a white man'
by Mark Silva

Really? This is a news story... really?

Obama has my support because he is the first serious presidential candidate in my adult life I find to be intelligent, moral, and not overly emotional. I believe he will be able to work across party lines like no one in my lifetime. The fact he is such a gifted speaker is a bonus. Obama as president gives us instant credibility in the rest of the world. They would be more willing to atleast listen to what we have to say after 7 years of us not caring what they have to say.

Hillary comes across as someone who thinks they're smarter than everyone else, better than everyone else, and knows better than everyone else what we want and need. We already have a president with these qualities. Do we really whant another one?

I found Ms. Ferraro's comments interesting. What is the crux of the matter is neither Obama or Ms. Clinton have given me an indication of how they are going to effect change, or implement programs to get our country on track. This election is the Democrats to lose as the economy and the unpopular war should in effect derail McCain's campaign. Instead of worrying who is being treated fairly or unfairly they should worry more about winning the White House. Then once they do, actually do something and not waste another opportunity which the Democrats are prone to do.

There should be another follow up to this piece. It should be entitled: If Geraldine Ferraro had a BRAIN!

http://OsiSpeaks.com

Guess we can do away with affirmative action now.

The truth is that the longer this drags on into meaningless name calling the less we are going to like anyone. Maybe shorter campaign seasons are the ticket with the money going to support those who need it: citizens.

Ms Ferraro was making some rediculous comments on NPR not long ago as well, claiming that the only reason Hillary is losing is because she is a woman. Now she is dragging out the race card. Seemingly, her only viewpoints hinge on her rather twisted viewpoints of racial and sexual discrimination. She seems to believe the former only exists as a positive and the latter only exists as a negative, and that both of these things are the only issues in this campaign. Just plain stupid, biased and offensive, this person.

Questions about the Clinton's background and experience:

What actually happened during the Whitewater scandal? Why hasn't the press reinvestigated that?

How did President Clinton's cabinet member actually die? (It was ruled suicide..family members didn't agree.)

As for Mrs. Ferraro, her statements are extremely disappointing. She should be a positive leader, not one who gives unscrupulous, lame and poorly substantiated claims. Her remarks are unconscionable.

As for Barack Obama, since when has hope, inspiration, and being an excellent communicator been a disqualification for a presidential candidate? One of the most important qualities a leader can possess is the ability to inspire and motivate others. Mr. Obama decidedly has that.

N. Alexander, Michigan

it's shocking how much bigotry still exists in this country, but there it is, in Ferraro's comments as well as some of these very posts, like the purely delusional generization "The blacks will vote for anyone that is an African-American."

Geraldine Ferraro is an idiot. Of course that's better than being what Hillary is. In November, I'm voting for (D) None of the above. I see another celebrity Dem was unable to keep his tool cool.

Another Clinton tactic. Have someone say something negative about Obama just to see if it sticks and then lightly say... We don't agree with that. I know that all these attacks on Obama are calculated. I did not know that Hillary was such a good violin player. We have not heard anything negative about Hillary for a while. Look at how fast she threw Spitzer under the bus. The only worry she has is that now she won't be able to get his superdelegate Vote.

Get the chip off your shoulder Ms. Ferraro!

Also, when will Hillary reject & denounce SUPERDELEGATE Governor Spitzer??? Oh wiat! I think he has endorsed her...she will want to have his vote count.

I don't understand this speculation on Ferraro's part. She is playing the what if game. The reality is that Obama is of mixed race, not white, period. I agree that Hilary has been treated unfairly by a liberal media that loves Obama. However, her campaign has engaged in some cut throat tactics that are less than desirable for a Democratic Party that is supposed to be distancing itself from the poison politics of Bush II's Administration. Hilary should distance herself from this lady and concentrate on realities and issues, not what ifs.

Who is GF anyways? Chris Rock would beg to differ with her notion that Barack Obama is lucky to be a black man -- "a white bus boy, wouldn't trade places with me, and I'm rich"

Ferraro is right . The media tiptoes around this man because he claime he is black. However, I think that is to his advantage. Many of us have "mixed" heritage but we don't dissect ourselves. How many affirmative action programs did Obama take advantage? If he didn't tell others his mom is (was) white one wouldn't know it. Half white argument is tired and worn. We don't need to wear signs and dissect ourselves to be validated worthwhile human beings. Black is good enough for many of us "mixed" heritage.

Are you kidding me?

Barack is uniquely privileged in this race because he is black?

HA!

I love this campaign - people are LOSING THEIR MINDS! At 72, Ferraro has probably been getting her racist on for a minute, so this is not surprising.

Whites, generally, have no idea what to do with the race conversation in America, so they do what they've always done since it has become somewhat unfashionable, which is to ignore it in public and demean minorities in private. Let's just stick with Britney, Lindsay and Angelina - they're easier to digest.

Its great so many of them are voting for Barack, but I think it has less to do with him and more to do with the somewhat seething hatred Hil can inspire. I don't hate her - heck, I intend to vote for her in the general if Barack does not win.

Of course, Ferraro's comments come from a woman who lost in her race to become veep. And she's backing a woman who's losing. So, her opinion is her own.

But, wow. Maybe all that privilege has cost her her good sense.

Interesting to see Clinton surrogates are trying to get in to Obama's head. The question is did they get into Obama's head?

You have to give credit to Clinton for playing hardball with the Momentum King Barack Obama.

A classic insider like Ferarro really thought she was the best qualified to VP when Mondale chose her, in spite of her lack of real experience and the stink swirling around her husbands real estate practice. In no way would she consider that she was chosen because of her gender.

On the other hand, being black has certainly been a stepping stone to the White House. That's why the 43 US Presidents have all been black.

She has also totally discounted the insurgent campaigns on the GOP side of relative unknowns, such as Huckabee and Paul. If Huckabee, in particular, had been a Democrat and more liberal, his style and presentation may have made him the front runner.

You Dems are a joke, fighting over this nonsense. Geraldine may have a point, but in a sense, you could apply her logic to Hillary. If Hillary hadn't been Bill's wife, do you think she would have waltzed into the Senate representing a state she wasn't a resident of? No way!

Meanwhile, the press' "annointing" of Obama is just crazy. Here's my question for all of you: when it comes time to make the tough decisions that come with being President, will Barack Obama have the experience and insight to make those decisions? You all rail against Bush, and that's your right, but unlike Obama, he's had a few years actually running something. I do NOT believe that being a member of the Illinois corrupt, do-nothing legislature is adequate preparation for being in charge of the security and well-being of 300 million people. And 4 years of being a US senator is just not enough experience, in my book, to deal with the foreign policy issues that will come up.

Charisma is nice, but at some point, I need my president to do more than make nifty, inspiring speeches. Sometimes I need him (or her) to make difficult decisions, decisions that require insight from years of experience and leadership. McCain has that. Reagan had that. Even Slick Willy had that. Barack Obama does not have that...yet. But give him another 4-12 years in the Senate, and he'll be a much more qualified candidate. And, unlike many who question his motives, I think he'll remain true to his beliefs, and avoid the kind of scandals we've seen amongst career politicians lately.

This is an historic election. I know we’ve all heard it. We have an African-American running against a Woman for the most important job in the World. But that is not what makes this election historic. No – that is tokenism. Let’s not be distracted by the racial or gender tokenism that waves at us from the pages of our daily newspapers and the chatter of talkshows.

No, this is an historic election for reasons that are far more important than the irrelevancy of the complexion of a candidate – or whether a candidate has internal or external plumbing.

So, let’s not talk about what the candidates are; but about who they are. Let’s talk about what our candidates have done and can do. Let’s not talk about what demographic group our candidates fit. This is an election, not a census.

Barack Obama is talking about things that matter -- and doing so very well. Hillary Clinton and her surrogates are talking about census data. They paint her as a victim of everything -- a victim of the Hillary haters, a victim of sexism -- and argue that her victimization is a strength. They then turn and attack Obama -- who has bravely stood above race and has run as a Democrat, not as a Black Democrat -- for being in a victimized group. The logic -- Hillary wins because she is a victim; Obama can't win because he is a victim.

The real problem is that many people hate Hillary for person, not sexist, reasons. They just don't like HER. She has a solid disapproval rating of between 45 and 48%. Even if, say, half of that is for bad, sexist reasons -- the rest is because of her personality -- and the fact is that the Democrats would be crazy to run a candidate against McCain who will lose unless she wins the vote of everyone in the country who does not actually hate her.

Obama has one critical strength -- people don't hate him personally. Some people hate him because he is black. Other people hate him because they perceive him from taking an opportunity away from Hillary Clinton. Both these are horrible reasons -- and both are impersonal.

The fact is that elections are won by the most likable candidate. That is a strange and somewhat unfortunate consequence of determining a government through a popularity contest. Our goal should not be to put forward the most qualified candidate (although, of the remaining candidates -- that is Obama, even though he his no Richardson, Biden or Dodd); it should be to put forward the most likable qualified candidate. That is how elections are won. Further, if there is no qualified likable candidate -- a Party is better off with an unqualified likable candidate. As Reagan proved -- incompetence can be compensated for in cabinet appointments -- but the opportunity does not arise if you lose elections.

This is so indicative of the Clinton campaign. Shame on them!!! Ferraro of all people should realize that a person is so much more than the demographic data assigned them. What if she weren't a woman? What if Hilary weren't a woman?

Where is Hilary's call for Geraldine to apologize for being off base??

The Clinton campaign is just showing itself for what it truly is ---- deparate and pathetic.

Former Rep. Geraldine Ferraro expressed her opinion, and I agree with her. Even SNL's hilarious skits are so popular because they're right on target about the unfair media bias against Clinton, which is largely sexist. Hillary Clinton is not only a woman, she's a white woman. Many in the media like Matthews and Russert have attacked her like sharks, daring not to attack the black man, Obama. Rep. Ferraro raised a question that each person has to answer. Would Obama be where he is now if he was a white man running for office? He is half black and half white, but is promoted as being black to the black community, thus assuring himself of their vote. Because someone is bi-racial, it does not naturally follow that they will end joblessness, rescue the economy, improve the supply of oil, end war in the world, improve education, solve the drug problem, provide dental and medical care for all, deal skillfully with foreign nations, or be immune from the influence of easy money and corporations. Obama secretly accepted two million dollars from a wealthy Iraqi through his conduit, Tony Rezko, now on trial in Chicago. What promises or services did he perform to get this money? Being bi-racial does not signify anything other than a biological fact. Rep. Ferraro had the courage to speak the truth in an effort to get people to actually look carefully at each candidate's platform, their words and their plans and not at their race or gender, just the person running for President.

Obama wasn't back by the Dem Party of Illinois when he ran for U.S. senator. Furthermore Ferreo comments go along with the Clinton campaign's motto. Racial statements that appeal to the ignorant masses.
After this primary is over I will reevaluate whether the Dem party is worth staying in.

Obama's ties in Chicago to Rezko, his friendship to Farrakhan and the Weathermen, make him unfit to be a Senator from Illinois. Except that that is how politics operates in Illinois. And, his being black, made it even easier for him. Geraldine is correct.

If Ms. Ferraro is a racist for calling Sen. Obama Black, what do you call the 90% of Black voters who vote for him? Issue driven voters?
As a Democrat, I am thrilled to have two strong candidates vying for the White House. Let the best candidate win!

Obama is a robotic cult leader like we haven't seen since the days of Jim Jones and David Koresh. Many clearly has swallowed the Kool-Aid, but the rest of America won't drink it come November. Whether black, white, green or purple, Obama is a dangerous hack.
Posted by: Jon Jay | March 11, 2008 12:17 PM

I don't know if it's what your doctor prescribed or what you're smoking, but you're suffering some pretty nasty side effects! Paranoia can kill ya if you're not careful.

I will be SO happy when Obama wins the nomination, then loses the general election in the biggest landslide in history. At least then we won't have to hear his empty rhetoric anymore....and all his idiotic supporters will SHUT UP!!

Who cares about the opinion of a political has been...especially when they are both racist and sexist. Geraldine, button your lips.

I was a 23 year old recent college graduate when Geraldine Ferraro was selected as Mondale's running mate. As a young feminist, rather than be inspired by the selection of a woman as VP, I remember how disappointed I was about Mondale's choice. Why? If she was a white man she would never had been considered qualified to be vice president.

One message very consistent with the Clinton campaign is that Obama is all talk but is "unwilling to do the HARD WORK required to be president". Also after her Mar. 4 wins, "never underestimate the intelligence of the voters" or something like that. These are more subtle reminders of how Hillary Clinton is using the squalid and age-old stereotypes so many people in this country cling to, so as to feel a little better in any competition. It also indicates how old-school she is and how we as a people of all races desperately need a new type of thought leader that we find in Barack Obama.

One message very consistent with the Clinton campaign is that Obama is all talk but is "unwilling to do the HARD WORK required to be president". Also after her Mar. 4 wins, "never underestimate the intelligence of the voters" or something like that. These are more subtle reminders of how Hillary Clinton is using the squalid and age-old stereotypes so many people in this country cling to, so as to feel a little better in any competition. It also indicates how old-school she is and how we as a people of all races desperately need a new type of thought leader that we find in Barack Obama.

Clinton is a racist and she has surrounded herself with the same sort of people.

Ask Hillary where she would be if she hadn't been the wife of Bill Clinton

Rose Law Firm - donor to Bill hired Hillary

Walmart - donor to Bill hired Hillary

Pardongate friends of Bill - donated to Hillary senate campaign

Face it folks, Hillary has accomplished NOTHING ON HER OWN!

"and the fact is that, he is only half black. His mother was white as snow. I think it is racist for people to call him "black." " I absolutely agree. On another topic, who needs to like the president? So what if they are abrasive? You need someone smart and tough who can stand up and hold their ground. We all like George Bush, a great guy to have a beer with, but look what he has accomplished! People, use your brains and not just your emotions when deciding.

I guess Ferarro & Hillary belong to the same exclusive "Rich Old Racist White Women's Club".

Be it race or gender, the two leading candidates are in front for all the wrong reasons. The two remaining choices for president are there because of who they are and not what they have accomplished. The Dems all got caught up in the media frenzy instead of making a responsible decision for the highest office in the country. The qualified candidates were pushed off the page by emotion not reason. If this continues down the current path and people vote democrat just because they are democrat they are voting not for change but for ignorance.

God, what a hateful old crow.

What? Like this is news? Barrack Obama would be a landslide victor if he was white.

You idealist underestimate the power of racism in this country. Everybody is on board with Obama until it comes time to actually go into that booth and vote. It's trendy to lend support to him, yet he keeps losing. Wonder why?

You want to see racism in this country? Wait and see if Obama wins the nomination. When he gets trounced worse than Mondale in 84, you'll know what happened.

Hidden racism is far worse than overt racism.

ferraro is right.

obama is able to inspire people, get people involved, restore faith in america, excite world leaders, and call for a change to the divisive politics of usual because he's black.

and hillary is able to inspire hatred, divide the democratic party, say and do anything she can to get elected, distort the truth, and use whatever back-alley form of strongarm politics she can to secure superdelegats because she's a woman.

what a freaking joke.

There's no limit to how low they can go. This statement by Geraldine Ferraro is 10 times more vicious (as well as bigoted) as the "monster" comment (which happens to be true, as this episode proves). Will she resign? Will HRC denounce and reject this outrageous show of racism? Wait, she was happy to perpetuate the Obama Muslim rumor with her "as far as I know." Too much to ask for her to reject THIS.

Would she be where she is if she wasn't the former first lady who turned a blind eye on her husband's misogyny because she had her eyes set on the senate? Women are voting for her because she's a woman. She wouldn't be where she is if she wasn't one.

Posted by: gracia figueroa | March 11, 2008 11:55 AM

You are right, Grace - You've just supported the notion that BOTH DEM candidates are in it for superficial reasons--NOT true accomplishment and a bastion of good--AFFORDABLE--plans for the future of the bottom-feeders they rely on for votes!

Ferraro has no idea what she is talking about. No one should care what she thinks considering she hasn't done mich since her bid for the vice-presidency in the eighties. check out her actual comments. ridiculous.

http://campaigncircus.com/video_player.php?stat=Most%20Recent

Thanks Ms. Ferraro for speaking the truth. We reformers in Chicago know what Obama really is. He supported the very corrupt Mayor Daley over two qualified African American candidates. Barry Obama likes to be Black when it helps him and is white when that helps he. He is lucky the GOP in Illinois melted down so badly in 2004 that they made the foaming-at- the-mouth carpetbagger Alan Keyes the GOP opponent to Obama. Any breathing being on the Democratic ticket would have been able to beat Keyes. Obama has a thin resume of legislative achievement and he shows his arrogance by turning up his nose at the VP slot. I HOPE that voters in the remaining states get to know what he really is.
BTW I was a Richardson supporter until he dropped out and then I switched to and voted for Hillary in the Illinois primary. So Hillary was not my first choice even tho I am white, female and over 50.

Once again, someone speaks their mind, someone with nothing to gain simply makes a statement, and the whining sheep start calling her a racist.

Do any of you think that what she said wasn't true?

My question to all the Obama supporters and critics out there is the question of eligibility? It strikes me strange how McCain's eligibility was called into question because he was born outside the United States... Even though his father was stationed in the Panama Canal zone and both his parents were citizens of the United States.

Barack Obama, however, was born in the United States, but only one parent was a US citizen... His father was Kenyan and his mother was American.

In my opinion, that strikes me as more of an issue than his race.

I am disgusted that the Clinton campaign is starting racist attacks they lower themselves on, what seem like, a daily basis. I am also repulsed that the remarks that are being said are clearly racist but the public is constantly being told that is not what was meant. To treat everyone as if they are incompetent and don't know what was meant by that remark is to cause her to attain an even lower amount of votes. She doesn't deserve to be President because it seems if she were to be elected we would end up with a re- enactment of white supremacy.

Do you smell that? Yep, that's the smell of white entitlement.

In my mind, that's so 20th Century...

Rev. William Hayashi

It the party and color that protect Obama.

A couple of years ago, it was OK for Democrats to get a Black Republican's credit reports by stealing his Social Security Numebr, and not a peep from people like Silva.

Democrats were silent when some of their pals called Secretary of State Colin Powell an "Uncle Tom". That was OK with most journalists, including those at the Tribune. And calling Secretary of State Rice an "Aunt Jemima" was OK too.

But Obama has been protected and propped up by the left, in politics and the press.

“For one thing, you have the press, which has been uniquely hard on her. It's been a very sexist media. Some just don't like her. The others have gotten caught up in the Obama campaign."

Hillary needs to put Geraldine Ferraro back in her box.

If Obama was a white man he wouldn't be receiving so many death threats.

If Obama was a white man he already would have locked up the nominatin.

OBAMA 08!!!

Ferraro is a woman whose history displays nothing of distinction, save having run, unsuccessfully, for vice-president.

Her comments on Obama only re-inforce that fact.