Rev. Wright fires back, hits Cheney

Keep him talking. Whatever you do, keep him talking. The more irate he gets at any reporter daring to ask questions of his regal person the more in line he is with the Obama campaign which thinks its candidate shouldn't have to answer questions from reporters, in debates or from the people themselves.

I have attended several different churches over my lifetime and I have never heard any political comments from the Ministers. Our Ministers are there to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ and not involve themselves with political opinions. I believe Wright has chosen to do otherwise to attract attention to himself.
As a Marine he should know what a great country he lives in and defended and he appeals to his congregation with these outrageous statements of victimhood to draw more attendees much like Jackson and Sharpton.

Man, is the media obsessed with Wright or what? Guess what...this country isn't ruled by clerics, be it Wright, Hagee, Huckabe, Haggard of whatever. So why not move on to other things that matter, like how the value of the dollar is plunging along with our standing as a leader nation.

I am not now, nor have I ever been, a Bush/Cheney supporter, but this guy really scares me. He made a valid point about neocon chickenhawks, but the rest of these comments sound like the babbling of a megalomaniac. Why, oh why, couldn't Obama have gone to a church with a normal pastor instead of a fruitcake?

Too bad Obama isn't running against Cheney - John McCain has served his nation for over 20 years in military service, including over 5 years as POW and enduring and persevering through torture.

How many years did Obama serve? By Obama's spiritual advisors rational, Timothy McVeigh is more of a patriot than is Obama. This Rev. Wright is a buffoon - and Obama's twenty year relationship with him, as well as his relationship with the likes of Rezko, Ayers, Stroger, Rev. Meeks, Blagojevich, Sen. Jones, former Alderman Tillman - all of these people who he supports and endorses reveal just what kind of a fraud Obama truly is. Change agent my a*&.

"Ask not what your country can do for you, but what you can do for your country" - Few American's live up to that Challenge more than Senator McCain - and to Obama they seem to be just words.

Obama supporters - time to move to Hillary camp. She knows economics and healthcare very well. Most importantly she knows how to win, even it means winning dirty.

She deliver a democratic ticket. Obama has too many knots tied to his feet, he can't break lose in the general election.

Jeremiah Wright is absolutely correct, and the "....God Damn America" quote, while inflammatory when taken out of context, if you read the transcript of or listen to the full sermon (which they have at CNN.com) he is talking about some of the wrongs that America has committed; and there is no shortgage of wrongs this country has committed.

That being said, i dont like Jeremiah Wright, nor any other religious figures for that matter but to paint the man as "unpatriotic" is just laughable at best.

I can make anyone look bad by taking a video of them and editing it how i want to. Anyone that has been on Youtube for more than a year can attest to that.

Wright is a fireball that's for sure. I still think its unfair for voters to base their opinion of Obama based on their opinion of the pastor, but he does seem to have a lot of anger. The love and mercy of God don't seem to give him much comfort.

A view from within the United Church of Christ:

http://WWW.UCCTRUTHS.COM

Wright lights the fuse

Monday, April 28, 2008

Trinity United Church of Christ's former pastor, Jeremiah Wright, gave an indignant speech this morning before the National Press Club and African-American church leaders. The speech and Wright's response to questions afterwards will undoubtedly reignite the controversy around his sermons.

In his speech, Wright disowned the controversy by claiming that the media reporting and the public response was not about him, it was about the black church as a whole. Wright also mentioned the call to have a national conversation on race which was first raised by presidential candidate Barack Obama and formalized by the United Church of Christ's national office.

Throughout the question and answer period of his speech, Wright continually deflected questions about his sermons often answering a question with another question. When asked about his "God damn America" sermon, he asked "Did you hear the sermon?" When asked about his allegation that the U.S. governemnt created the AIDS virus to commit genocide on African-Americans, Wright asked if the questioner had read Horowitz's book and then claimed that he believed the government was capable of it. When asked about his controversial sermon that appeared to blame the U.S. for 9/11, Wright claimed to be quoting an ambassador although Wright clearly subscribed to the belief in the sermon.

On any level, the speech was a trainwreck. Wright didn't accept responsibility for his sermons or take ownership of his own words. By deflecting the controversy as commentary against the black church, Wright has also ignited a completely manufactured racial conflict and has unfairly cast a negative view of the black church and the United Church of Christ. Wright has effectively sabatoged the black church, the United Church of Christ and Obama's candidacy to protect his own ego.

While I personally agree with the spirit of Obama's call for a national conversation on race, it can not and should not be orchestrated as a defense of Wright's sermons. The controversy is not about race, it is about Jeremiah Wright. If we are going to have a real national conversation on race, it should be done in the spirit Obama's unifying optimism that we can overcome our shameful history.

These Obama supporters use 'racism' in the same way the Bush/Cheney supporters use 'patriotism' - as a weapon to demean those with legitimate concerns about the qualification’s and philosophical approach toward governing this nation. They have used it since Biden announced over a year ago - and throughout this campaign to ensure that Obama isn't challenged and exposed for the unaccomplished, unqualified, and completely inexperienced person that he is.

I may not understand the theological traditions of the African American community - but I know when a Senator is using his Hollywood back story to cover for no military, no executive, no record as an agent of change, no foreign policy experience (except his claim's of being on a playground in Indonesia between the ages of 6 and 10 as 'experience'), and little legislative accomplishments.

I hope my party wakes up and nominates Clinton - we deserve so much better than SNOBama!

I could care less what Rev. Wright has to say, I'm darn tired of paying almost $4.00/gal for gasoline and in case no one has noticed food prices are creeping up as well, since they are not putting our food in the gas tanks. I want someone elected that will regulate this mess.

This is only going to fan the flamers and add more sound-bytes to the endless loop. Sadly, it looks like Obama is going to learn that you can't underestimate the intelligence of the American people in running for President.

It's pretty sad that in order to knock out a viable candidate for the nomination you have to rely on a third party association to bring them down because of where they stand on their personal views. If this is the best you can come up with then people will have to deal with the fact that Barack Obama will be the Democratic nominee and when push comes to shove their will be no Rev. Wright downfall, no bitter pills to swallow, no flag lapels to pin your hopes on or storms for Obama to weather that will force him underground. He will come out on top and this nation will now have a leader that represents all of us regardless of color or creed.

I'm not sure what churches Mr. Poulsen has attended, but I've heard many ministers from several different denominations make political comments.

The Catholic Church has not shied away from taking political stands, nor have many of the conservative evangelical churches.

I suspect that many people view a minister's comments as "political" only when they disagree with those comments.

And I agree with DD: our country has much greater issues facing it than getting in a lather over what any of the candidates' ministers or other religious supporters have to say.

In my opinion this comment by Rev. Wright says it all about Barack Obama:

"If Sen. Obama did not say what he said," said Wright, "he would not get elected."

In other words - the only reason Obama is distancing himself at THIS time is to get elected.

Like Bill Maher, I'm not much into the institution of religion. I have my own spiritual guidance and don't need it from these religious organizations like the Catholic Church, Christianity, Nation of Islam, Muslims, Judaism, etc and others who have all created wars, violence and hatred (ironic isn't it). I also don't put too much stock in the so-called leaders as well. Look at Ted Haggerty, Farrakhan, Jim Baker, etc. Instead, I look to Ghandi and Martin Luther King Jr. who were great leaders of peace, kind of like what Jesus spoke of and died for. But I digress, some of the things Rev. Wright has said about the US policies and it coming to haunt them is true. But he is a very arrogant man, stubborn and selfish. He has every right to say what he feels and thinks but because of his association with Obama who is running for President, he has to be careful in what he says. Instead, he inflames and instigates, worsening Obama's chances of winning. And if he doesn't see that by his bombastic cooments, he is not a preacher of hope and love, but of hatred and ignorance. I hope Obama realizes that and puts a complete stop to this before Wright does more harm to his candidacy.

You have failed to Print his Speech in Full Context. Short of that is taking his points of view out of context, which makes you just as guilty as Fox's New: Hannity. I didn't know this was a Right wing paper too.

"as a marine he should know what a great country he lives in'?

Apparently you've never heard the story of the most decorated marine in history, Smedley Butler. His book 'war is a racket' sure shows he knew what a great country he lived in, that would never kill for private profit or spread any corporate losses to the public.

Wright calls for dialogue.
The way Obama calls for a 'debate' where the moderator isn't on his side.
Obama had a PERFECTLY good unitarian universalist church he could have attended in Hyde Park.
I've been a member of 2 UU congregations who tried partnering with an African American church in town.
The UUs were wiling to partner.
I resent Wright's painting of ALL white people with the same brush. If this is a misunderstanding, then Wright needs to write in more nuanced terms.
Wright makes a lot of good points. His anger, however, prevents him from really reaching out and, well, reaching people.
And he is wrong to say there is a different 'black' learning style than 'white' learning style. He is merging genetics into a cultural situation.
And that's dangerous--almost as dangerous as his bashing of individual reporters here--as opposed to the STRUCTURE within which they function.
The church Wright lead and leads the Obamas--make no mistake--is not feminine in nature.
Is Maya Angelou the 'uncle tom' Wright decries?

What a pity that so much attention is given to Wright? More attention should be paid to home closures, Iraq war, education, unemployment, etc.

The media has to pay more attention to the ISSUES!

I also want to add one more thing. For Jeremiah Wright to say that Obama is saying the things he's saying because he's talking like a politician, what is he trying to say? That Obama is nothing more than your typical politician? That is a complete insult to Obama. I cannot believe he would say something like that about Obama. I hope Wright can clarify that one. And Wright is talking like a preacher? Sounds more like he's talking like the politiician.

Obama supporters have to cringe every time this quack opens his mouth.

Methinks the good Reverend is on Karl Rove's payroll.

And that he wants McCain to win.

Not only is he doing Obama no good by suddenly becoming addicted to TV cameras. He's actually doing him harm.

I'm an Obama supporter, but I sure understand why GOPers who post in this forum want Wright to be more visible.

That said, I'm glad Wright got that dig in about Cheney being a draft dodger.

It's disgusting how Fox News (especially Sean Hannity) are smearing Rev. Wright. Read or listen to the entire sermons where the "controversial" excerpts come from. God Damn America...when it oppresses the weak and acts like God-doesn't really sound that crazy to me. Evidently the media thinks we are small children who can't critically assess our nation's history. Also, John Hagee who endorses McCain said God damned america/New Orleans because of wickedness-why no controversy?

Posted by: JohnW | April 28, 2008 12:29 PM

Obama and the Democrats have a real problem. Reverend Wright is completely out of it. He is becoming a major campaign issue for Obama. I always thought Christianity taught to forgive people for their wrongs. I guess the Reverend Wright has forgot some of the basic teachings of Christianity. Sorry Obama apologists, Barack has major problems because of the hateful rantings of his minister.

an attack on Wright is no more an attack on the Black Church than an attack on any white Pastor or Minister is an attack on the White Church.

Good Grief this man is the most is looking for race problems that don't already exist. He does nothing to help solve of heal...he divides.

I believe Obama would like to heal, but will never get the chance thanks to people like Wright, Sharpton and Jesse Jackson

It is time for all Democrats to back the person best suited to beat McCain in the general election- Hillary Clinton!!!

Obama likes to flirt, smirk and pretend that questions about Wright, Ayers and other issues that cut to the core his judgment, credibility and character don't matter. Before talking about gas prices, Iraq, etc. I need to know a presidental candidate possesses the integrity, honesty and fortitude to get the job done. Obama has demonstrated a profound lack of judgment and character in maintaining a 25-year relationship with Wright and other hate mongers such that he is wholly unfit for the presidency. Period.

Timothy McVeigh voluntarily served in the Army for more than 3 years. I guess that made him a great patriot, too.

It is time for the Republican-controlled Media to give this Wright controversy some fairness and enquire of Hillary Clinton and her surrogates the following: Is it true that, (1) Hillary surrogate, Congresswoman Shiela Jackson Lee, is also a devotee of Rev. Dr. Jeremiah Wright; that he's been preaching at her home church, where she is actively involved, annually for the past 15 years and has an open invitation to return, and, that she sat in the pews for his visits and did not bat an eye?

Is it true that (2) Hillary surrogate, Rev. Marcia Dyson was not only a longtime member of Trinity United Church of Christ but also still considers Rev. Jeremiah A. Wright her pastor? That Rev. Marcia Dyson's seminary education, in part, was sponsored by Trinity UCC and encouraged by Rev. Wright? And was it not at Trinity were she first met her husband, Rev. Dr. Michael Dyson, who's been very vocal in his defense of Rev. Wright.?

And, lastly of Hillary Clinton, that if Rev. Wright would not have been her Pastor, then why did she and Bill when going through Impeachment, turn to Rev. Wright for Prayer and Support and invite him to the White House? These things should be answered.

Does it seem to you that Wright is purposely attempting to derail Obama's campaign? If he is he's doing a real good job. I can't say that I would be able to support Obama in November no matter how much I don't want four more years of Republican rule.

While I agree that there are many issues that should carry more weight in this election, Obama's past history and closeness with Rev Wright place this very squarely in the middle of the presidential contest.
I have seen the entire "God d@^^" sermon on You Tube. I understand what he was saying from a biblical standpoint. His point was that the US role in foreign policy has bred resentment against the US in the world and that we should have expected someone would attack us (9/11).
Now, if Obama were to get elected would Rev Wright be welcome? I don't think that will happen at this point. Rev Wright is going his own way and spreading his message, but we have passed the point where Rev Wright will have any influence over Obama's policies. persona non grata

I listened to the entire, fascinating 26-minute clip. Obviously most readers didn't. He's an incredibly smart and inspiring man. It's a shame that the writers of this article - like the rest of their colleagues in the media - brush it off as a "learned lecture" and then get to the flammable soundbites, which they consider the "news". Why are white folks around the country so angry about this man? Because the media and other pandering Youtubers are only interested in the sensational bits, not the substance. Seems to me his address was about "reconciliation." The writers and editors have tagged it about anger and arrogance. That's shameful.

Americans will get the President they deserve; if they want to look closely at this man and try to understand him, they'll get Obama. If they prefer to listen only to the soundbites, they'll get the same kind of soundbite Presidents we've had since the days of Ronald Reagan.

I love how the media completely ignores the religious figures that have endorsed and/or support McCain. For instance, Pat Robertson who said Katrina happened to New Orleans because of the sins that were taking place there. He said 9/11 took place because of gays. McCain has never been asked why he has accepted Robertson's endorsement and support.

The above posts by Renee at 12:33 PM and by Depot Jim at 12:40 PM are insightful and right on the money.
I support Obama but have a couple of friends who plan to vote for McCain. Even THEY think Wright is providing an unfair disadvantage to Obama.
Wright = Titanic Captain.

I agree with Jeff, let Reverand Wright continue talking, then America can see what a boogyman, corporate america and Senator Obama haters, have tried to make out of an American veteran who is exercising his freedoms of speech and religion. If you have a problem with an American enjoying his freedoms, than you are the boogyman, that America should fear. You are one, of many, who want to enjoy your freedoms, but if you diagree with someone else's position, then you want to deny them their rights. That is very unAmerican, it is almost Republican!!
SUPPORT OUR TROOPS, BRING THEM HOME, ALIVE. NOW.

I agree with you, Tim Howe. The problem is that black churches are like no other because the black experience is unlike any other ethnic group in America. Before Obama's candidacy, others were more than ok with ignoring the role of the black church in America as long as blacks have no real power regarding the system. Now, with Obama a viable candidate, let's spread some fear. Let's dig into everyone's background that he had any dealings with, personal and professional. If we can't find dirt on him, let's find dirt on someone he knows and make Obama accountable anyway.

I've read people finding Rev Wright's theory on the American gov't responsibility of introducing the AIDS virus to Africans a preposterous theory. Rev Wright is of the generation who remembers when the government injected poor black males in Tuskegee, Alabama with the syphilis virus in the 1930's experiment. So it really isn't that far fetched an idea given what the American government has done in the past for Rev Wright to think it could be possible.

Obama is history!!!...He will never beat McCain..Our only HOPE is for Obama to love the Democratic party enough to step down and enable HRC to take us to victory in November..Otherwise we will have 4 more years of Bush type control, wars and more poverty..HRC...

"I have attended several different churches over my lifetime and I have never heard any political comments from the Ministers. Our Ministers are there to preach the gospel of Jesus Christ and not involve themselves with political opinions. I believe Wright has chosen to do otherwise to attract attention to himself.
As a Marine he should know what a great country he lives in and defended and he appeals to his congregation with these outrageous statements of victimhood to draw more attendees much like Jackson and Sharpton.

Posted by: Jim Poulsen | April 28, 2008 11:55 AM"

Although I'm not accusing Wright of anti-dis-patriotism, I have to agree with Jim Poulsen here that the pulpit should NEVER be used to preach politics. I've spent far too long fuming because the Religious Right/Social Conservatives have used their churches as mandates on how their flock should vote (while still maintaining their tax-free status as inviolable) to allow myself to not fume when it's a liberal-based church doing the same thing. I think any church (at the very least, any congregation, if not the entire church) should lose its tax-free status when they step over this line, and should be penalized by losing it for multiple years whenever it happens.

Having been brought up in United Church of Christ, I've never once heard any of our ministers use their pulpit to do anything but preach the word of god and to remind us of the need to accept and help one another. Rev. Wright is an exception to what I've experienced.

I love the irony how neocon critics criticize Wright for mixing religion with politics when thats what got most of the neocons elected. Neocons is runned by the radical right christiansons.

In response to Jim Poulsen's remarks, I've attended many different black churches over the years and politics -- and many other important topics outside of religion -- have always been a part of sermon's in the black church. At one time, the most educated people in black communities were exclusively clergy and educators. Seeing how institutionalized racism did not allow educated blacks to simply go into whatever educational field they desired, those were the two fields generally available.
So the pulpit has long been a place for discussions of all sorts in the black community.

"If Sen. Obama did not say what he said," said Wright, "he would not get elected."

So basically his own pastor of 20 years is telling us that Obama is lying to the American people in order to get elected!

Mike

Unfortunately you CAN underestimate the intelligence of the American people. It was these same people that voted in the same draft dodger twice thus giving him carte blanche to continue his reckless policies which now has our economy spiraling downward and out of control. It is precisely the reason why Obama has to make his position clear and concise and not because he is flawed in how he is thinking but more so because those running against him are so flawed that they will look for these trivial distractions so that they can justify their making a stupid decision in the next election. I'm with Rochelle on this one. Let's put an end to this madness and believe me bringing in another Clinton is not the most intelligent decision.

Three cheers for Wright!

I am glad he can speak up well for himself after cowrdly attacks.

Cheney is such a squalid ethical being.

Those who think the Gospel of our Lord is not political, and to preach it means to avoid politics, haven't read the Gospel. The Gospel is all about speaking the truth and calling on governments and peoples to be responsible for their actions. Having the courage to speak the truth and exercise our first amendment rights, in a culture that does not seem to those rights dear, is a power that comes from God.

To listen to sound bites and pass judgment on others based the sound bites, is irresponsible, ignorant, arrogant, and in this case racist.

And to hold a political candidate responsible for what someone else says is just as irresponsible, ignorant, and arrogant.

Here’s a suggestion. Read the sermons, listen to the speeches, and spend more than 15 seconds during the 10:00 news making up your mind about how you feel about someone. Especially when it comes to selecting the leadership of our country. I want patriots who recognize that what they have fought for, either on the battle field of war or the battle field of social justice, is the rights given to all by the constitution. And I want a leader that has the guts to admit our failures. Only then can we really grow into the great nation we can be. Only then can we claim to be truly free.

I find it very interesting and telling that your article only addressed what was said after the cameras went off. For 25 minutes he discused the black church and put out there for those who do not understand it an opprotunity to do so. He gave a histroical context for what is said in the church and how worship in some black churches is differnt, not defficient, than in other churches. Did you discuss that no you thought he was being "edgy and diffiant", gave an arrogant performance". " his demenor will but off white voters". Now that is arrogance. Rev. Wright has three master degrees and two PHD's. It must have been a real disapponting to you that he came before the press club and was intelligent and learned.
Finally contemp for the media, do you blame him. You guys tell it the way you want it and then get upset when those you target take offense. You are contempable, and give hard working, fact finding, and honest members of the press a bad name.

Obama, Wright, Michelle, Louis. Hard. Left. Hate. These characters are not the direction we should be moving in this country.

The SNOBama cult members don't get it. The neocons are as despised as the Moveon.org crowd by the vast majority of moderate Americans who will decide this election. The American people are not stupid - they know that Senator McCain did not attend Hagee's church, and that he has spoken out against the 'voices of ill-tolerance' on the far right. They know that he was critical of the Rumsfeld, Fieth, Wolfowitz who dismissed the concerns of Gen. Shinseki, Gen. Newbold, and Gen. Zinni. He stood up and successfully pressed for a change in strategy. He will listen to Gen. Petraeus (who the Moveon.org crowd called a traitor and Obama never spoke out against) and Gen. Odierno - while Obama will follow the same philosophy as Bush and be the "the decider" and disregard the advice of our ground commanders and senior officers. Maybe if Obama had shared in the sacrifices and served in the military, he could speak with authority on living up to his own stated standards - but he didn't and doesn't speak with authority on national security or patriotism - but he does have a twenty plus year relationship with this ex-marine for America to judge his capacity of judgment on who to associate with.

SNOBama should do the noble thing and recognize that he is not going to be elected President and Commander in Chief of our Armed Forces - because he doesn't merit the position - and withdraw prior to the Democratic Party loosing the executive branch yet again. Middle America will not be duped into electing a beneficiary of the corrupt politics of Chicago that SNOBama never was an advocate to change, who has no credentials on military or foreign policy, and few legislative accomplishments to speak of what so ever.

Obama supporters have to cringe every time this quack opens his mouth.

Posted by: Herbie H. | April 28, 2008 12:35 PM

Yes you're right Herbie. I know that the low flying republicans will eat this up because most people who have seen what the republicans who have run our country into the ground, know they have to find anything to use. Although their "base" have used countless words of hate against so many groups of Americans as well as other religions.

To those of you who say religious leaders ought not meddle with politics....

Do you feel that way about Falwell, and the others on the Evangelical Right?

I don't mind listening to what pastors have to say, but I don't think any of them have any business in the active political process other than as a pastor or as a prophetic voice. You know what, I'm an adult and I can make up my own mind, but it's prudent to keep an ear cocked for that voice that might let me know what God thinks, too.

To Mark...I have done exactly as you instructed and the only answer is HRC to bring our Country out of this pitiful mess and bring our Soldiers Home. Obama will never be President. The Wright deal will be his legacy..Plus he will never get the good ole' boys vote, union workers or Catholic Vote..His elitism, his snobby attitude, Rezko and on down the list.We need to rally around HRC in order to put a Democrat in the White House. She is the only one that can beat John McCain..Your advice is sound and everyone should take time to search deeply as this is our Country we are speaking of. Not which person we like best..Our Soldiers are counting on us to make the right decisionnn. Not the WRIGHT decision...GOD BLESS AMERICA...

Freedom of religious expression is protected by our Constitution. But, Wright is obviously mixing politics with religion (i.e. why else would he use Cheney as an comparison).

Sermonizing political views is certainly not unheard of and acceptable within social norms. It is obvious from his prepared remarks that Rev. Wright is an intelligent and thoughtful minitster who has done a lot of good work with his ministry.

What is not good for Obama is his association with the activism side of Rev. Wright....on top of lingering ties with Ayers. Americans want more jobs and cheaper gasoline, not a people's revolution.

It's correct that, unless one is black, it's difficult to understand the black experience. However, 87% of Americans aren't black, and they don't need to understand the experience. The president of the United States needs to be for all Americans, not a select few....and Obama is going to have a very big challenge is convince people of this in a general election.

BTW, infering from Rev Wright's comments, Obama really wasn't a regular. It seems like Obama's affiliation with the church was just more political networking....so much for the new kind of politician.

IN THE END,ALL THAT JEREMIAH SAID WAS THE TRUTH.HE DID NOT SAY A SINGLE THING WHICH IS NOT FACT NOR INCORRECT.THE PROBLEM IS THAT THE TRUTH IS ALWAYS BITTER TO THE EARS

My beef with Wright's comments are directed at his faulty theology, not his politics or even his tendency to bombast. Orthopraxy (the social gospel, as defined by liberation theology) must first be rooted in orthodoxy (correct doctrine). Wright's use of John 10:16 ("I have other sheep that are not of this sheep pen.") as a supposed pluralistic counter to John 14:6 ("I am the way and the truth and the life. No one comes to the Father except through me.") is patently absurd. For one who resents having his sermons "soundbited" out of context, Wright plays fast and loose with Jesus' words. Make no mistake, Jesus was no pluralist. You are free to ignore, ridicule, or embrace Jesus. There will be real consequences one way or the other. But woe to those so-called religious leaders who spin Jesus' words (Isaiah 5:20: "Woe to those who call evil good and good evil, who put darkness for light and light for darkness, who put bitter for sweet and sweet for bitter."). For it appears to me that Wright would prefer to create in Jesus a god in man's image rather than, as Wright himself claims, man being created in God's image -- yet fallen. If Jesus is God's incarnate Son, then we must submit to His words, offensive as they may be to our allegedly enlightened world view, rather than contorting, distorting, and resorting to Jesus' quotes out of their proper context.

I am happy he is speaking out standing up for himself and his church (which has nothing to do with how OBAMA WILL MANAGE THIS COUNTRY). How many people in your own family have the same views and opinions and will be truthful about it. When you can talk to me about the US economy which is on welfare now, and our so called straight politics from our pandering politicians (HiLIARY and McCANT), then you can bring religion into the mix. I thought religion and politics were separate. If not then we all would be in hypocritical deep DU. No one she have anything to say about what somebody else is saying in their own church and not going our disrupting the community. People in the Chicago community and accross this country if they really was intuned to REALITY and not a REALITY SHOW!!! can care less about who said what how they said and why they said it they want lower prices, affordable housing, reduced crime, assault weapons of the city/suburban streets, want quality education. So I damn anything anyone has to say if it is not about the issues which affects us all!!

I don't find much of what Rev Wright says even remotely controversial. I find John McCain much scarier than this guy. McCain will say anything to anyone to get elected. He sounds like a typical Republican w/o any kind of plan of action once he's in office.

Oh, except for that part about bombing countries because we can.

There have been many wrongs to many people of all ages,sexes, and race and it will continue until "WE" can "ALL" forgive each other and acknowledge "WE ALL" are brothers and sisters and 'WE ALL" need to start acting like civilized humans. I don't care about religion(I have a great relationship with God, but I don't go to church because of all the hiprocrites who act like Christians on Sunday, but Monday through Saturday is a free for all) and I really don't care about politics, but I DO CARE about our world and our society and how we have destroyed everything given to us because of our own selfishness. Give me a break people, we have gone so far into the realm of evil it doesn't matter who becomes President because at this point, he has no more power than you or I. I've been through alot of elections and there is not one candidate who has been true to his promises to the "people". Those promises always become lost behind the promises made to the highest contributor to the campaign, Corporate America". So as I started off, we have all been wronged in one way or the other and its not neccessary because of race, age, or sex, its because of a persons financial status in the world; its because of greed and selfishness, not just yours, mine, his, or hers, but "ALL of US". We all have created this mess and its going to take someone with a lot more power than the President of the US to correct!

As A 15 year veteran I can see how Rev. Wright might be able to point out other people's short comings. Did he mention which branch of service Obama served.

Wright's discussion of the supposed cognitive difference between blacks and whites to try and explain away his hateful sermons reminds me of the kind of propaganda the Nazi's created about the supposed difference between Jews and non-Jews. This is really crazy, hateful and strange stuff Wright is spewing. And Obama has maintained a close relationship with this guy for 25 years. Wow.

Some people claim Obma must think EVERYTHING his pastor thinks.

By that notion, does that mean that all Catholics are pedophiles because of a few errant priests?

Angellight/Julie Mack and all other Obama paid bloggers in the room--this is NOT about Hillary.

The ISSUES should be what this election is all about - not what we're witnessing today. The media and the republican factor is making the democrats once again, look like fools. The candidates should not answer questions unless they relate directly to the issues - gas prices, food prices, the iraq war, sub-standard education, etc.

I'll take an endorsement from Rev. Jeremiah Wright Rev. over John Hagee any day.

Why doesn't McCain have to answer these questions about the religious leaders endorsing him?

Ahhh.... his dumping on Cheney makes all those other statements OK now.

Although most who serve in our military are patriotic, military service in itself is not a seal of patriotism.....Timothy McVeigh.

On the other hand, dissention is not necessarily unpatriotic.

Patriotism always starts with common demnominators of a sense of belonging, a common cause, and a willingness of sacrifice.

The issue of race isn't about patriotism, but where do we all fit in.

The issue of Obama's candidacy is about whether he is truly a leader ready to be POTUS or an intelligent idealist who is searching for purpose and happens upon the U.S. presidency. The difference is how much persistence and stamina will he have when challenged....the POTUS job is not something you just move on past or walk away from. There are plenty of very intelligent people that aren't fit for the job of the presidency, because once they get tired of doing something they are ready to move on. I view Obama as one of those people....read his books and tell me if you agree.

Poster cbet says: ""The ISSUES should be what this election is all about - not what we're witnessing today.""

In fact, the Wright issue is one of the most important issues of all as it speaks directly to Obama's judgment, character and honesty. Why would Obama the "uniter" hang with this racist guy for nearly a quarter century if he didn't agree with him?

Wright's speech stressed equality and reconciliation above all else as core biblical values. People who missed this in his speech need to step outside of their assumptions a little and listen again.

Black churches have always talked politics; in fact the whole civil rights movement came from black churches.

So are blacks supposed to go to church and forget we can get shot 50 times when I walk out the door and not debate about it.

Well where does everyone suggest black people should debate politics.

Black churches are the only sanctuary where we can discuss these things as a community. It's the only place most blacks unite as a community which should be where community politics are discussed. If the nation is not happy about the black church being a voice then give a forum that will be acceptable.

I watched Rev. Wright's speech at the NAACP last night and although I am a supporter of Obama and while I could agree with Rev. Wright on parts of his speech overall I was very saddened by it. I am trying to keep an open mind realizing he is very angry about the media for focusing only on what they see as his negative comments and ignoring the good he has done for his community. Still, I can't excuse him for making generalized stereotyped statements about people. I feel he overstated and oversimplified much on the differences between European and Africans. I couldn't help but think that a person of European descent making these types of assertions would have been accused of being a racist. I do agree with Rev. Wright that different does not necessarily mean deficient but obviously there are times when being different can also be wrong. Saying 2+2 equals 5 is different but it is also mathimatically wrong. I wish Reverend Wright would have spent more time in ackownledging there are people in this country who are not as prejudiced as those he seem to be angered by. His message has its merit but the tone of his speech does not.

I hope people of religion can pray for Rev. Wright and others who are angry and for people of all races, ethnicities, nationalities and religions to be more tolerent.

Wright's speech stressed equality and reconciliation above all else as core biblical values. People who missed this in his speech need to step outside of their assumptions a little and listen again. As a society struggling with issues of race and the place of religion in our society, we can learn a lot from the Wright's discussion about the Black church. While Rev. Wright is certainly not the only voice of the Black church, or of any church or religion for that matter, his words elevate the discourse without being hateful or disparaging of others.

This is an attack on the black church.

No white pastor, Falwell, Robertson, nor Hagee has dominated our national news as Rev. Wright is.

It's a cultural difference.

I'm not committed to anyone yet, and I'm not saying Rev. Wright is great or awful, but what he says about terrorist acts against the U.S. couldn't be any more true. Some of what is done in the name of this country we know about it, some we don't, and some we never will (or won't for decades, anyway), and much of it stinks. The reason we think it's OK is that we think our worldview is superior to most other countries'. Perhaps we'll try another approach someday and see if anything changes.

Increase the number and variety of your news sources today! Left-wing, right-wing, overseas, whatever! Try it, it won't hurt.

Rev. Wright keep talking and you will guarantee that Obama will not be elected. Obama is spending more time talking about what you are doing than he is talking about the issues. Of course, he can't talk about the issues because he has no idea how to solve them but that is ok. Go McCain!!!!!!

perhaps Rev. Wright would debate Sen. Clinton's pastor, or whomever she might chose as a stand-in for a pastor?

The Obama campaign does indeed have problems.

Start with a ruthless ruling party that will not hesitate to resort to distortions, innuendo, fear-mongering, and outright lies to hold on to power. Mix in a near-monopoly network of corporate media in which, at best, real reporting is sacrificed to the bottom line and, at worst, propaganda is disguised as news and "fair and balanced" opinion. Add in an ill-informed electorate in whom attitudes of fearfulness, powerlessness, the supremacy of emotion over reason, and an obsessive focus on trivialities--such as a few sound-bites out of 30 years of a candidate's pastor's sermons--have been carefully and systematically cultivated for a generation. Big problems.

And let's not fool ourselves--those same problems will face Hillary Clinton, should she become the Democratic nominee.

Jason has it right: Americans will get the President they deserve. I hope, but it's a fading hope, that doesn't translate into: All Americans will get the President that the most ignorant, fear-driven, and narrow-minded among us deserve.

It is obvious to me that the Reverend does not know how to separate church and politics. Obama, in other words, preaching by the Pastor, said what he said about not condoning what the Pastor said , only because it was political correct and other wise agrees with what was said. Well I hope Obama now understands why this man is an liability, which makes him unelectable.

"God does not desire us as children of God to be at war with each other, to see each other as superior or inferior, to hate each other, abuse each other, misuse each other, define each other or put each other down," Rev. Wright said. "God wants us reconciled one to another."

"We just want to ignore America's reality. C'mon, let's stop ignoring it. One hundred years of racism. It's not going to go away."

Whose side is this guy on? I see him being the official chaplain if Hillary wins.

It's not the black church that anyone cares about, it's the crap that comes out of this guys mouth.

I use to think Obama was a very intelligent man but the more I learn about Jeremiah Wright the more certain I am that he is clueless. How could someone sit in a pew 20 years and not know how evil this pastor is? 10,000 people at the NAACP dinner last night giving him an ovation is an outrage. You have a Bible, read it.

Reply to post by Posted by: Bitter in the Flatlands | April 28, 2008 12:06 PM

Jeremiah Wright is absolutely correct, and the "....God Damn America" quote, while inflammatory when taken out of context,
---------
Those three words shouldn't have been said by any pastor to his congregation, no matter what the context was.

The Rev. Wright is an interesting mix: erudite scholar and goofy orator; right-on observer of mankind and excuse-maker for bad performance; man of God and political rabble-rouser; humble servant of the Lord and ego-driven, arrogant, holier-than-thou bible thumper. I am both impressed with some of his pronouncements and roll my eyes at his rationalizations and questonable "facts". He can inspire and exasperate in the same paragraph.

Pat Robertson, Louis Farrakhan, the late Jerry Falwell, Jimmy Swaggert, and Jim Baker (just to name a few) have/had all the same negatives...but none of the positives. Wright is much more interesting, but the bottom line is that he is just another human using religion for power...my least favorite kind of human.

The comment above "View from Within the United Church of Christ" is from one man's blog - and is completely unaffiliated with the church - which it stated on its website, but not on this post. It is a political smear and has nothing to do with either the church (I called to verify) or Christ.

Rev. wright sounds an awful lot like Osama bin Laden with his infinite knowledge of God. Preachers are ordinary men who can be guilty of racism or any other sin and still possess some good but if our nation is to progress past this black people need to get over things that happened 100 yrs ago.I've been passed over for jobs because of Affirmative action(Chicago police) and been threatened with violence for being white. and attacked for wearing an Epton for Mayer button and yet I don't hate. I try to do what jesus said and judge not least I be judged.I doubt the people assailing wright are any less sinners than he is but sometimes you need to know when to shutup rev.

Frankly, after listening to the Dr. Reverent Jeremiah Wright, Jr., I think America would be well-served by learning under him, attending his church, listening to him. Contrary to what the media and Clintons want us to believe, this is not a quack by any means, he is a well-educated man who served our country well and I can't blame him one bit for defending himself against the racist bigotry that is going on out there to bring Obama down! I don't think Obama should distance himself from him, in fact I now see why the Senator attended his church for those years he did, this Pastor Wright is a jewel who has a wealth of information and is very likeable. Instead of the media and Clintons demonizing him, they would be well-off to embrace him, and Obama too.

It seems to bother you, Christi and Frank, that you were in the presence of a black man who isn't afraid to speak his mind, and that he won't bow down to the media, to white people, or to Barack Obama. Why does that bother you so much? Could it be the reminder that this country's past isn't so glorious, after all?

"I've read people finding Rev Wright's theory on the American gov't responsibility of introducing the AIDS virus to Africans a preposterous theory. Rev Wright is of the generation who remembers when the government injected poor black males in Tuskegee, Alabama with the syphilis virus in the 1930's experiment. So it really isn't that far fetched an idea given what the American government has done in the past for Rev Wright to think it could be possible." -Karen

The government did NOT inject poor black men with syphilis. All of them had contracted the disease on their own. What did happen is that once the diagnosis had been made, the men were not told of their condition and not given treatment so the "doctors" could track the progression of the disease. That alone is horrible and unethical, but the idea that the men were injected with the disease is simply not true.

This is beginning of the end for Obama ... by their own friends ...

This is the demonstration that Obama is a "typical politician" ... and has nothing to do his skin colour ...

Great, this Wright idiot is nullifying every positive thing that Obama has said about race. What is nonsense about slavery? Most of the New Testament is about forgiveness ... and he's in Chicago, for crying out loud, not the South. There was never slavery in Chicago. White Chicagoans fought and died to end slavery.

Sorry, Senator Obama, but Wright has just about sunk your candidacy.

I love the Cheney comment.

You hear a lot of whiners saying constructive criticism of our country is somehow unpatriotic.

How many of those whiners served like Wright did?

Constructive criticism is what allows our country to improve.

Cheney is an admirer of Saudi Arabia. He shuts down debate the way they do in third world countries, because admitting something could be better is an insult to those who like things the way they are.

This has nothing to do with Obama or how he would serve as President. I dare all you McCain supporters to look at some of the comments his pastor has said over the last several years. Specifically comments he made about Katrina. And then come back and explain why he isn't the focus of attention while Reverend Wright keeps getting pulled into the spotlight??? One word - RACE.

In the end people this means nothing and it's preposterous and almost sickening that the entire country is focusing on this man's comments rather than what Mr. Obama has planned for America should he become president. His ideas and proposals for this country has nothing to do his pastors hateful words. The fact that all of you are discussing the level of importance of what he said is just adding fuel to the fire. You're all blind to it. Wake up and tell the media to make issues out of REAL ISSUES!!!!!

Hey Jeremiah
VP Cheney was the Secretary of DEFENCE!!!!! How is that not serving? I believe that he rates calling himself a veteran of the military.
For the rest of you; Wright was NOT a Marine he was in the Navy! For gods sake get it right

Hey Jeremiah
VP Cheney was the Secretary of DEFENCE!!!!! How is that not serving? I believe that he rates calling himself a veteran of the military.
For the rest of you; Wright was NOT a Marine he was in the Navy! For gods sake get it right

What has Rev Wright said that was so wrong?

News flash: Wright is NOT running for President.

I'm sick and tired of "the media" creating news instead of reporting it. Quit sticking a microphone in Rev. Wright's face. He's not a man of God, he's a narcissitic moron with no concept of the damage he's causing.

Is Wright hurting Obama? No. Is Obama's reaction to Wright hurting Obama. Yes.

I am an Obama supporter but am losing patience. If he cannot control his pastor, or effectively separate himself from him, how can he have what it takes to be president? Rev. Wright is an angry man who thinks his name is more important than our country's future; than the historical possibility of electing a black man president; than his supposed friendship with Barack. His words weren't taken out of context--he said them! Democrats should speak out loudly and clearly against this man. He is losing this election for Senator Obama and doesn't seem to mind.

Anyone who listened to the full Rev. Wright interview by Bill Moyers last Friday night cannot rationally see this minister as anything but a force for positive growth of all Americans and Black Americans in particular. The insidious thing that commentators are doing is suggesting that style is really an indication of content. The equation goes like this: Wright sounds different from us; he says some true things in a way that we would not say them; therefore Wright is different from us; Obama supports Wright; therefore Obama is different from us; you can't afford to put someone THAT DIFFERENT in the White House; therefore Obama is not as good for America as he seemed to be. There's only one word for that, although the equation lets you use the softer word "different" rather than the R word. Obama's opponents are very, very clever. Hopefully, Indiana, N. Carolina, Kentecky, etc. and all the super delegates know that he is different, but only in a very good way.

Hey Jeremiah
VP Cheney was the Secretary of DEFENCE!!!!! How is that not serving? I believe that he rates calling himself a veteran of the military.
For the rest of you; Wright was NOT a Marine he was in the Navy! For gods sake get it right

Posted by: RAI | April 28, 2008 4:30 PM

Alas, in a day with an overwhelming number of idiotic wingnut posts, RAI has come up with the dumbest.

By your "logic," RAI even "draft dodger" Bill Clinton would be a "veteran of the military" because he was, indeed, Commander in Chief of the Armed Forces.

Go back in your hole, moron.

This man is a American hating, racist, demagogue who
deserves nothing but vilification. I was in NY during
'9/11 and would like to see this clown give a speech to the people who lost loved ones during that day. He is utterly
despicable!

Well, Wright obviously doesn't know his theology, or he is lying for effect. He certainly has done his best to get down at the trough so to speak like everyone else he talks about (re. his gated estate). He is a huckster, and thankfully he will see that Obama - who is a lightweight as far left as anyone in the country - does not get elected, if he can still hold the nomination.

To those posters who say he speaks the truth. He doesn't, he twists and misrepresents with just enough smidgeon of something you think sounds right to bring you in. If you think the complaints about this man are a racist attack on the black church in America you have two choices - think wisely. One - he is wrong. Two - if all the "black church" is monolithic, which he implies, than all the black church is racist. Now I don't believe that, but if you defend him htat is what you are saying.

As to politics, church and politics go way back, and personally I don't think the government has any business telling any preacher what to say or not say on Sundays. To the posters who say it is only in right wing churches, you are fools. And if other posters think its only vote buying in black churches around election time - well you are pretty foolish as well. I have no problem with Wright speaking his piece. But I disagree wholehearredly with what he says. Those who want to bring up this other pastor for McCain are really reaching, he barely knows him.

Rev Wright. Keep on talking you're doing the right thing.

Obama has showed poor judgement by not leaving this church before he made the decision to run for president?....i was watching wrigh today and he siad if obama is elected "im coming for you"......the republicians will play this comment over and over,OBAMA ITS OVER QUIT

There is only one person who should be in the White house, one man who has the right to have the job of President of the United States. Anyone else has to much estrogen or to much stupidity and way to much money backing them.

McCain for President

Anyone who listened to the full Rev. Wright interview by Bill Moyers last Friday night cannot rationally see this man as anything but a force for positive growth of all Americans and Black Americans in particular. The insidious thing that commentators are doing is suggesting that style is really an indication of content. The equation goes like this: Wright sounds different from us; Wright says thing I would not say; therefore Wright is different from us; therefore Obama is different from us; you can't afford to put someone THAT DIFFERENT in the White House; therefore Obama is not as good for America as he seemed to be. There's only one word for that, although the equation lets you use the softer word "different" rather than the R word. Obama's opponents are very, very clever. Hopefully, Indiana, N. Carolina, Kentecky, etc. and all the super delegates know that he is different, but only in a very good way

I use to think Obama was a very intelligent man but the more I learn about Jeremiah Wright the more certain I am that he is clueless. How could someone sit in a pew 20 years and not know how evil this pastor is? 10,000 people at the NAACP dinner last night giving him an ovation is an outrage. You have a Bible, read it.

Rev. Wright needs to learn the difference between the proper use of a language and a regional accent.

What Wright has said repeatedly is certainly all about Obama's judgment and his love for his country. If I had heard, heard of, or heard anything similar to those words I would have left the church immediately - and not stayed there for 20 years. It strains credulity to assume Obama was not aware of Wrights beliefs. Witness Michelle, who said she had no pride in her country until her husband started running for president.

Hey Blinkin
You Moron Clinton now is a Vet! He was in the chain of command goof! That's why his being commander in chief was such a discrace! I am a Marine and anyone in my chain of command is in the Military Jerk! Now go to your hole and come out to vote Democrat Idiot

If you live in a glass house...I recommend that you do not throw any stones. Thus, when should we hold one accountable to that which is said by another...? Better yet, what if you were on the receiving end...would you appreciate the public court to find you guilty...because of your associate's words.
Although I support Senator Obama...does not mean he will be aligned 100% with my values, but I will say, I could support someone that is open and honest...and Senator Clinton has not been honest, especially with the sniper scenario.

Can we please move on to something else. Why is America worried about this one man, this country is about to vote on a new president. Gas prices are going through the roof, we are at war, and is this all we have to talk about. Food prices are going sky high, our school system is terrible and this country can't seem to put together affordable health care for all americans. Is Rev. Wright all we have to talk about. Move on for God sake, you're doing nothing but proving him right with this on going tabloid trend when it comes to this upcoming election. I'm sure you are aware that America is tired of it and probably only the press cares about what this guy said anyway. My God how many people have said things like this person. It's not long news. We in america are witnessing a falling empire. The state of this country is the perfect formula for an empire about to fall. I know no one cares about that, what am I thinking. It's every man for himself. What a joke the media has become, give us something news worthy.

I am so tires of hearing about Wright. I don't care about what Wright has to say. I have sat in plenty of congregations listening to some ridiculous priest or pastor give their inappropriate speeches condemning Jews, gays and anyone who dares to think differently. Does that mean I stopped going to church? No, I went because of the community of good people there. Those priests and pastors were fly by night and didn't last long, the community however, still remains and has been open and loving, in spite of the church officials, not because of them. So I don't condemn Obama for not leaving his church.
This country has far bigger problems to deal with than some pastor blowing off steam.