1. Logic wrote:

Marc,

As a great emcee once said, “You can’t knock the hustle.” Also, isn’t John McCain, Ralph Nader, and anybody else that is running for President, courting the white vote. What’s the point in running if you’re not?

2. Tanya wrote:

Marc,

STOP HATING!!!

How is this a court for white voters? I see this as a court for any voter who loves this country and is concerned with “strong families” and “strong values”.

Why is that disturbing???

What I find disturbing is the fact that you obviously believe only white people are concerned with “strong families” and “strong values”.

PS- Just get over it Marc; you will NOT be the 1st Black President. 2nd maybe, but only if you stop hating!

3. Garrett wrote:

There were three senators absent for the vote concerning extending the health benefits for soldiers. Guess which presidential candidate was one of them. Yup, good ‘ol Barry.
What a guy.

More fluff from the Wizard of Oz.

4. Logic wrote:

Tanya,

I can’t lie though, I didn’t see any black folks in the ad.

5. jazzy wrote:

I can’t watch the You Tube clip at work but this looks like the ad I’ve seen running in Michigan. I don’t understand what is “disturbing” about it. It just looks like the typical political ad to me. Marc, I would really like to know why you think it’s disturbing.

6. Tanya wrote:

Logic,

I saw black people! Look again!

7. james wrote:

garrett, obama was campaigning as well as mccain, who also missed the vote. logic, i saw still pictures of black folks at 35, 36, an 37 seconds.

furthermore, correct me if i’m wrong, but didn’t the wizard of oz, in the end, despite his somewhat pathetic and fraudulent behavior, have some wonderfully deep advice for dorothy and her little band of misfits?

8. Ann wrote:

This ad has been running here in Ga the past month and Marc you are the first person I have heard say it is disturbing. White people make up the general population of our nation. Its naive to think he can win without them…

One more thing…you wanted us to nominate you for the TJMS position- and I did so like so many others because you asked but I must now say that since you are a OBAMA hater you will not fit in on this show. The morning show crew members are diehard supporters of OBAMA.

And as I recall, Tavis’s “calling out” of Obama is pretty much what ran him off the show…..

~ANN~

9. Marc Lamont Hill wrote:

First, I’m not an Obama Hater. Ironically, I spend the bulk of my time defending Obama in the media. After all, right is right, wrong is wrong. That said, I have a beef with this ad, which I will explain before the end of the day. In the meantime, I’d like to hear your perspectives on this issue.

10. Mrpowers06 wrote:

This ad has been playing in PA for a few weeks. Buzzwords like “faith”, “family”, “accountability”, and “values” resonate with many Americans, black and white. He also mentioned moving people from welfare to work and cutting taxes for the working class. I don’t understand how this is courting only white people when such programs certainly benefit blacks as well.

11. james wrote:

look at glenn beck’s definitions of a conservative and you’ll see who obama is courting with that ad.

12. Joe from PA - urbanradionation.com wrote:

Dr. Marc, you’re on point with this. People put down that cup of Kool-Aid and take off those rose-colored glasses.

I listened to TJMS show this morning and Ralph Nader brought up some good points concerning Obama’s stance on urban policies and the continued “taking the Black votes for granted” position the Democrats take year after year. Their response after the Nader interview was that they should have yielded the time to Eric Benet to sing another song. (Yuk-yuk-yuk, Ha ha ha, he-he-he.)

That’s disturbing.

13. Tom Penn wrote:

Dr. Hill doesn’t like this Ad because the speaker says, “the country I love.”

Senator Obama and Dr. Hill have both greatly benefited from America; they both have Ivy League degrees, yet one loves this nation, and the other is a hater.

14. knowledge_base wrote:

They’ve benefited from this nation because they have Ivy league degrees?

15. Ann wrote:

Marc you are right you do spend a great deal of time defending him in the media but yet you do say you are not a supporter. I dont understand that. Is it that you like him as a person but not enough to be the president?

As for the ad, I didn’t partularly think it was pandering to white folks exclusively. My take is that it was for anyone who isn’t a supporter whether that person is black, white, hispanic. Whatever…

~Ann~

16. Robert wrote:

Dr. Marc, I am a huge fan of yours but the derogatory comments towards Obama are becoming quite disturbing. During the primary season I understood that everyone had a preference and those who preferred Hilary worked tirelessly to tout her case. However the primary is over and I will not apologize for believing that we as black people, more than anyone else, need to stop trying to poke holes and find fault with Obama and get behind this man by doing our part to make history. If the idealogical viewpoints between Hilary and Barack were so stark that you could tell the difference between the two then i would say keep burning that flame doc, but truthfully whether its the first woman or the first black man they just arent that different to keep tearing the Democratic candidate down.

We need to step back and let Barack run this campaign. He absolutely needs to convince white people that they dont have to fear him. Its a modern day fact. He has to absolutely convince folks that he loves the good old US of A. He has done a masterful job of running this campaign and we should continue to trust his judgment.

Can the black folks stop hating on Barack, come to our senses, and help write history. Once he is in the White House we can party like its 1999!!

17. Marc Lamont Hill wrote:

Robert,

I haven’t said anything derogatory about Obama. I simply don’t agree with much of his politics. You’re right to say that he and Hillary are essentially the same candidate but here’s the catch: I didn’t support Hillary either!!!! If Hillary were the nominee, I’d be saying the same things (if not worse). For me, “making history” isn’t electing the first black or woman. Making history, is electing someone who can help us profoundly shift the lives of the most vulnerable. If you think that’s Barack, then vote for him. I, however, don’t believe that he, Hillary, or McCain are solid choices. This is why I’m challenging him. I’m not hating, I’m doing my job.

18. Tanya wrote:

Yeah Marc, take your time trying to justify your hate on this one.

I can’t wait you read your spin!

19. Marc Lamont Hill wrote:

damn, tanya, why it got to be “spin”?

20. Marc Lamont Hill wrote:

btw, i’m in an 8 hour meeting. they made the mistake of letting me bring my laptop. that’s why i’m typing so damn much…

21. Tanya wrote:

Marc, when it comes to Obama you’re a hater and a crafty spin “doctor” (pun intended;)). But we still love you anyway.

You have to fight Hate with Love!

22. Ann wrote:

Marc…I had to come back and say its your fault I am a supporter of Obama…I knew I had to support him after reading the exchange between you and Melissa on theroot.com concerning the supreme court and future appointees…it was then I realized that I couldn’t afford to not support him…

~Ann~

23. Miss Martin wrote:

lol…Dr. Marc you’re stretching on this one..BUT I must agree with you good Dr.—none of these potential presidents are worth they salt. Obama aint a descendant of slaves like me…he don’t really feel where I’m coming from and I know that now…I’m just supporting lil homie because I want MICHELLE and them bbb’s (beautiful black babies) in that damn white house. Now she IS a descendant of slaves—she might know what us REAL “african-americans” go through on a daily based on her parents’ story, which sounds a lot like my parents struggle being black in this cuntry (YES! cunt—ry). Heaven knows I wish Michelle was running for office instead of Barack….she really represents my interests.

Read Michelle’s thesis if you haven’t?? found at the politico.com

24. ting wrote:

I think Robert said it best:

“He absolutely needs to convince white people that they dont have to fear him. Its a modern day fact. He has to absolutely convince folks that he loves the good old US of A. He has done a masterful job of running this campaign and we should continue to trust his judgment.”

Especially after my Cuban friend made the mistake of forwarding me all this Obama is a terroist type email. You don’t think that sticks with the majority of Americans? Muslim extremist, Obama, Huessein, yadda yadda yadda.

25. ting wrote:

Dam Miss Martin, why you gotta hate on the light-skindeded folks?

26. DCI74 wrote:

Marc you are completely out to lunch on this one. So who is Obama supposed to be courting in these ads?

27. Joe from PA - urbanradionation.com wrote:

HERE’S THE PROBLEM:

“Can the black folks stop hating on Barack, come to our senses, and help write history. Once he is in the White House we can party like its 1999!!”

SENSES!!! I guess WHEN WE PARTIED for Harold Washington, David Dinkins, Marion Berry, Wilson Goode, and Kwame Kilpatrick

28. ting wrote:

As much as I swoon over Obama, I really can’t deny who he is courting in this ad. Come on people, it’s like a Saturday Night Live skit.

Had he been courting the GLBT community, you would’ve seen rainbows all up in the background, on bumper stickers, rainbows with a pot of gold at the end, rainbow colored balloons.His parents wearing rainbow t-shirts. Seriously.

29. Miss Martin wrote:

ting—-i sorry, didnt know i was hating

30. Joe from PA - urbanradionation.com wrote:

…things MUST have gotten increasingly better when we had Black elected officials I mentioned early in office.

WHAT MAKES UP THINK IT’S TIME TO PARTY.

A party only last for so long, then it’s time to go home!

…and most of y’all think your loyalty will be rewarded. (ha, ha, ha, lmao)

31. ting wrote:

It’s all good Miss Martin, just sometimes hate how people define what a “real” African-American is….because a lot of times it’s solely defined by looks.

32. Miss Martin wrote:

I feel you…I got damn near white looking cousins who are DEFINITELY descendants of my same bloodline…I hate that bullshit too!

33. wouldn't you love to know? wrote:

i’m going to have to agree with Robert here.
although, my idea of making history, isn’t electing the first black or woman either. I will say this though, Obama is a damn good start to making history. as i’ve stressed before in previous posts, i’ll stress again, we would be damn fools to think any form of a politician would, and could save the day of the most vunerable, we’d be damn fools. what i feel obama provides, is a sense of hope within the black race, and quite frankly that’s just what the fuck we need. some form of hope. obama in the white house, would fuel so many more blacks to want to be productive and involved with their community, and the world at large. shoot, just him being the democratic candidate has more and more people coming out of the woodworks, reading more, being more aware of their community, staying up on current events, etc, etc…and those my friends, are the little things i pay attention to….

i hear people going back and fourth about, how people think that obama is the new messiah, and how everyone thinks he can save the world, and how he’s a fuck-up like everyone else, and yadda yadda yadda….i simply look at him as a flame, a fire, a mere lighter…a substance used to ignite the leaders in us all, because after all, this change that everyone is looking for, starts with us…that simple…

having a face that mirrors our own, in the highest office of this country, is just the inspiration we need to know anything is possible, and can be done. ok ok maybe obama will be the greatest fuck-up known to man, but maybe through his efforts ONE true leader will emerge. better yet, maybe MILLIONS…..

34. Blaxx wrote:

Marc you are completely out to lunch on this one. So who is Obama supposed to be courting in these ads?

Comment by DCI74 — June 27, 2008 @ 11:47 am

I’m with Marc on this one. With the opening scenes showing Obama with his white mother and his white grandparents (no mention of his black father or his side of the family and yes I know Obama didn’t ask to have a white mother and white grandparents but he seems to be playing it up a bit), to all of the scenes of Obama hugging, kissing, shaking hands and meeting white people (yes there may have been black people in the commercial but were they anywhere near Obama?), I think this is a very pointed ad and we all know where its pointing, even if you think you’ll be struck down for being black and talking bad about Obama.

35. Miss Martin wrote:

I def agree with you on the Obama’s ethos in terms of hope that is undeniably spreading like wildfire within my community WYLTK. I feel it too. My fundamental belief (underneath all the shit I do talk about Obama) is that he WIIL most certainly RE-ignite young brown and black peoples spirit to persevere, reach back to give back—AND do it well.

36. Robert wrote:

WYLTK has a valid point in that what we have seen here is a more engaged electorate. People who have been turned off and disinterested in the political process are fired up and ready to go (pardon that one, I couldn’t resist).

If, as you say Doc, thrue measure of history making is “Making history, is electing someone who can help us profoundly shift the lives of the most vulnerable.” Then I think it is amazing that Obama has managed to communicate to the most vulnerable that their vote actually does count for something and that there little $25.00 donation can create change.

On another blog for another day we should discuss how can the most vulnerable truly make a shift in their lives. I just bet we will discover that no politician is truly able to make that happen. The most vulnerable, down-trodden, disenfranchised, neglected folk have got to make some moves for themselves and their children. Registering to vote, getting to the polls, and voting for a candidate who understands their issues is a good start

37. wouldn't you love to know? wrote:

Blaxx, it’s clear as day where this is pointed…why is anyone surprised or beefing is the question?

Obama is not my leader, he’s my lighter ok?..now, somebody pass the Ganja….

38. Miss Martin wrote:

**passing that ‘goody goody’ to you**

39. Blaxx wrote:

I’m waiting for the first person to jump on me and say that since I’m from Canada, my opinion doesn’t matter. It’s happened before.

40. Robert wrote:

are we still passing…………..

41. wouldn't you love to know? wrote:

blaxx, you black right?…..then your opinion matters

plus canadians rock!!!!….i mean they have the best….and last year they….and that avril lavigne is like elvis….and the latest fashion always comes from……well canada has a pretty flag…well not really…ok when i use to eat meat, i loved their bacon!…yeah there we go…you see canada is the shit!…..

42. wouldn't you love to know? wrote:

**blowing “O’s” OOoooo**** Here you go rob. memba, don’t mess up the rotation!

43. Ann wrote:

Come on back in to home field WYLTK…lol..i have to reel you back in cus your canada post was funny…

44. Tom Penn wrote:

If you study American presidential election history, there is one thread of continuity: white heterosexual males are the deciding voters in almost every contest.

I get the clear impression that Senator Obama is serious about becoming president. Hence, his appeal to said voting block.

45. Logic wrote:

Maaaan Marc just be trying to start stuff. He voted for Obama, ask him. I saw his name and bio listed as a “core” brother on a website called brothers for Barack.

He just does this to solicit dialogue. We get it Marc, he ain’t perfect, but WTF he’s the best candidate.

46. Blaxx wrote:

Logic, that’s exactly what he’s supposed to be doing. Soliciting dialogue. Just because Dr. Hill is critical of Obama and some of his policies doesn’t mean that he can’t vote for him. Just because you find flaws with the chosen candidates doesn’t mean you don’t vote. Not voting is never an option, not never.

47. Ann wrote:

Marc aint got to worry about nothing up in here cus BLAXX got his back…fo sho….lol…

~Ann~

48. Logic wrote:

Blaxx, I agree, thats what I’m sayin. People calling him a hater but I know he can’t let Obama pass without being critical of some of his actions. I can dig it. But in the end he has to choose.

49. Samuel wrote:

I’ve read the discussion above and really appreciate the different viewpoints that have been provided. I know that in order for Obama to become president he’ll HAVE to satisfy/cater to many different people in all categories. This shouldn’t come as no surprise to anyone. In that regard, I’m really surprised that some are offended by this ad. If the majority was a multicultural society then maybe he’d be able to pull off a mixed race ad, but because it’s not, he and his crew have to strategically do what they have to do. My question to all of you is (mostly to the ones with the negative reaction though):

With the reaction to Obama posting an ad geared toward the white community, would you feel the same if he created an ad that is placed during the WB black shows on Sunday evening along with the token McDonald’s commercials completely opposite of the other ad with all black people and shaking hands with only the leaders of the black community while only talking about his white mother and black father? Do you think this would help him get elected? Do you also think it would really help for him to post an ad with a large mixture of races shaking hands with a white person here, then a black person there, then an Asian or Hispanic person?

50. Marc Lamont Hill wrote:

I didn’t vote for Barack Obama in the primary. I am not a member of “Brothers for Barack,” regardless of what their website says. I do not support Barack Obama. I don’t know how to be more clear about this.

51. Marc Lamont Hill wrote:

“I think it is amazing that Obama has managed to communicate to the most vulnerable that their vote actually does count for something and that there little $25.00 donation can create change.”

What change? more jobs? less police brutality? more health care? sounds to me that the main change will be getting him in office!

52. wouldn't you love to know? wrote:

i’m comin’ home Ann. I’ma comin’ on home……

what a great point Sam, what a great friggin’ point….
could you imagine an ad, with me pickin’ the hell out of my ‘fro, and givin’ that brotha a pound, talkin’ about some, “vote Obama y’all. peace”….the only muthafugga that’ll appreciate that ad, would be me…granted we can argue that it would be the dopest ad alive, but that’s beside the point….anyway….

vote Obama y’all. peace.

53. Logic wrote:

I stand corrected.

54. wouldn't you love to know? wrote:

“I didn’t vote for Barack Obama in the primary. I am not a member of “Brothers for Barack,” regardless of what their website says. I do not support Barack Obama. I don’t know how to be more clear about this.”

Comment by Marc Lamont Hill — June 27, 2008 @ 2:07 pm

why don’t you get buttons, and ties that say “i oun’t like obama”, and wear them on all your t.v appearances. that’ll clear all that shit up.

shit, i’ll spring for the bumper sticker….Obama hater….

55. Dale J. Thomas wrote:

What I find funny, is that Marc has a problem with one politician and not any others.

All politicians are charismatic charlatans to a fault.

But Marc you spend a lot of time, hatin on Obizzle, as much time as you do defending him. There is a difference between critical analysis and just not liking the guy.

I think more people would get off your case, if you just say you do not like the dude.

I can show you commercials, from JC Watts and other black politicians with only white folks too.

You act is if Obama is the first black politician to court white voters.

Personally, when I read about you going on Fox Noise, I think that your commentary on it is to court white people or change their opinions about us. Any black man that goes on Fox Noise is suspect to me anyway, but that gives me no ground to knock your hustle dawg.

Just because I disagree with you does not mean I playa hate. I personally wish to see your more in LinkTV or Free Speech TV, not the Fox Noise channel.

Just a thought.

And yall, please vote for Marc to replace Tavis Smiley, show the brother some love, we need some fresh blood on the airwaves.

56. wouldn't you love to know? wrote:

we are going to have fresh blood on the airwaves, if Dr. Hill doesn’t quit hating….some of these people take this shit serious….

57. Logic wrote:

What change?

How about greater access to political happenings by opening up the government and making it more transparent. How about access to health care and more “green” collar jobs and construction jobs created by upgrading America’s infrastructure.

I’m tired of folks criticizing those who use hope as fuel for change. If you black or poor, or you have been oppressed in any way then you know that hope is ALWAYS the spark and catalyst for real change.

Granted, we don’t know if he will really pursue these types of things if he gets into office, but we can say that about any candidate. Obama has the best plans and I trust that he will work hard to bring them about, if for no other reason than to prove that a black man can be President.

Think about it, I’m the only black engineer in my division and I come to work everyday with the intent of proving that, despite what doubts might lurk in the back of peoples minds, that blacks are intelligent, we are hard-working and we can do the job. So imagine the pressure that Obama is feeling to “represent” the race properly during his term as President.

58. Logic wrote:

Thats probably the longest post I ever wrote.

59. Marc Lamont Hill wrote:

Dale,

The reason a spend a lot of time critiquing Obama is because he’s running for president! Before election season I went at Bush with both barrels. When the primary was competitive, I was hard on Hillary too! Also, when Barack was correct (e.g., the ‘bitter comments”) or mistreated (e.g., Jeremiah Wright), I took his defense. This is NOT PERSONAL. I don’t dislike Obama, I just don’t agree with his politics. Why does that make me a hater? Name one comment that I’ve made that suggest personal animus rather than legitimate critique.

As far as other politicians doing the same thing, you’re right. This is why I have said that Obama isn’t doing anything worse than Clinton/Bush/Gore/etc…. The problem is that he presents himself as a new breed of candidate. He isn’t. As you all have accurately stated, Obama is playing the same game as his peers.

With regard to JC Watts, he is a black conservative. We already know what he’s trying to accomplish. It is my understanding that Barack isn’t playing that same game.

If you think my commentaries on Fox are to court white folk, your tv must be on mute. All i do is get hate mail because I steadily challenge them! Do I want to change their opinions? Yes, I do. Although I’m not naive about this process, I think it’s important for left-wing perspective to be heard in many spaces.

I don’t appear on LinkTV or FreeSpeechTV because I work for Fox. However, I am often on NPR, Pacifica Radio, and other left wing outlets. Additionally, i’m on black radio almost every day!

thanks for the support!

60. Samuel wrote:

I swear it seems like so many people think he’s low-balling the black community. I think my fellow black people are hurting him more than helping on a daily basis. With Sean Combs yelling “Obama or DIE!” or others saying idiotic things in front of the media. Then they get mad at him for catering to other races as if he’s The Brothers Brothers (Wayan’s brothers) in the In Livin Color skit:

“We’re brothers… We’re happy, We’re singing, we’re colored… Give me a HIIIGH FIVE!!”
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WvDlPgfl91U

At least Obama knows who he is and where he came from…

And Marc, I’m not hatin’ on you for being critical for Obama’s choices. Just make sure that when you look at those choices, look at the ramifications if he made the other choice. After he is elected, he’ll be able to do some of things we would hope for him to do, but I don’t think he’ll be able to do much about police brutality as long as the police departments in every city continue to hire idiots for officers with the Napolean syndrome and hates anything other than their own with their “Good Ol’ Boy” tactics. That only becomes a political issue when the people make it one. It continues to be a social issue that never gets solved and no one will pay attention to it until the next Rodney King incident and black folks feel they win their next Cracker Jack prize that never comes in the mail (Thanks, Chris Rock) …or when riots happen and white folk feel threatened again.

61. wouldn't you love to know? wrote:

OH GAWD Marc, please stop….we all witnessed you talk shit about Obama’s Mama ok….so quit it already….and everybody knows, once you talk about somebody’s mama, it’s personal….

and we all know you envy Obama, because he has a cuter smile than you….so quit it, we see thru all’lat!!!!

damn hater….

62. Dale J. Thomas wrote:

thats kool doc.

63. Logic wrote:

I do he is a new breed of candidate, to the extent that you can be a new breed and still have a realistic chance of winning the general election.

Let’s use The Wire for example. If you wanna change how the game is played (no killing, betrayal, etc.). You have to ascend from young ass hopper to Marlow status if you really want to change. During your journey, you might have to smoke a couple cats to get to the top. But once there, you have the power, influence, and resources to create change. And hopefully, you haven’t lost yourself along the way.

64. Marc Lamont Hill wrote:

Logic,

I don’t have a problem with hope as the fuel for change. In fact, hope (combined with informed action, sacrifice, etc.) is the thing that has pushed every successful movement in our history. That said, I don’t believe that putting Obama in the white house will make government more transparent (so far, Obama has been as opaque as the rest), nor will it create universal health care (in fact, his plan was the least progressive and inclusive of the 3).

If voting for Obama will spark hope and animate a movement, I’m all for it. However, my understanding of political history, as well as Obama’s particular stances, suggests that this will not happen. It’s not that I don’t have hope, I just choose to invest it in the people and not Obama.

65. Logic wrote:

Its called strategy.

66. Marc Lamont Hill wrote:

Obama’s Mama? Huh?

67. wouldn't you love to know? wrote:

i’m just fuckin’ wit you dude. you actually make some good points….minus all the hate of course….

68. jazzy wrote:

Whew there are a lot of comments today. I didn’t have time to read them all so I hope I’m not being repetitive but I’m guessing that one of the reasons that Marc doesn’t like this ad is because Barack is emphasizing his white Kansas’ roots in order to appeal to white folks. Just a guess. I am anxious to hear Marc’s comments too.
Also, although I am an Obama supporter I don’t think I or other supporters should ever stop scruntizing him. I disagree with certain things that he’s done and said (Father’s Day speech) and I disagree with him on some issues (Dealth penalty) but so far at the end of the day I think he’s the best man for the job.

69. natural nubian wrote:

yall, all marc is doing is being critical, and that’s exactly what we all should be. and blacks know that we are the MOST critical of our brothers & sisters. obama ain’t gettin’ no free pass from us, and best believe if he publicaly does wrong by michelle and his two girls chi might get burnt down. but i see obama as a cousin. one of my cousins wants to run for prez and since he family (in this case, he’s proven himself politically) imma support. but if he only steps outta line, talkin’ mess and pissin’ on e’rythang he comes in contact with, imma have to yank his tail back. i understand my cuz has to get the white vote–gotta make them comfortable, keep ‘em smiling. but i also know that he’s got to play the game.

70. John wrote:

I haven’t commented in awhile but I feel compelled to make this point:

We need more Americans — both Democrats and Republicans — to look at issues and candidates critically and thoughtfully, like Marc is doing toward Obama here.

Too often, we are so partisan that we back anything “our side” does or says without using our God-given intelligence and common sense to think about what is best for the country as a whole.

71. Logic wrote:

John,
I guess you think McCain is who’s best for our country.

72. John wrote:

I do … but I don’t think he is perfect nor am I afflicted by McCain-amania.

I disagree with some of his policies — especially his stance on immigration. But he definitely has the edge over Obama on experience and I think he has a more realistic view of what it takes to govern the nation.

73. Logic wrote:

But what about his views? “best for the country as a whole”?
Please!

74. wouldn't you love to know? wrote:

why couldn’t i be “69″? 69 is one of my favorite numbers….

i think we are all subconsciously critical of Obama….that’s like getting your ass whooped everytime you do something bad…you know if you do “A” , then you know what the outcome of “B” will be….so that same thing applies to politicians….we all know about the good, the bad, and the craig mack….we’re just curious as a people, which is naturally fine, to see what the outcome of this brutha in office would be…that’s all…i never put all my eggs in one basket….so i won’t start now….

my thing is, why be so rough on Obama? it’s not like we have all these options to choose from….give a brotha a chance, so we can see what he sparks….shit, it could be good, bad, or craig mack, but we won’t know unless we give him a chance….

75. R.oB. wrote:

Marc,

I think you are to paraphrase KRS-One an Unconscious Hater because I think liberals (and conservatives) always make the mistake that somehow they are going to change things drastically. They misread how democracies work. A democracy that could change so profoundly in so short a time would be the social equivalent of Iraq. Change on that scale is slow. Too much change ignites fear. Liberals don’t speak for Americans or even on behalf the most vulnerable. They speak their agenda.

As for this ad, if you find this disturbing then you should leave the country…fast. Word on the street is there are a lot of white people here and they vote! JK. Seriously, family, patriotism, etc. He’s doing exactly what he should be doing in a democracy. Selling himself. Just like you would for any job.

If you really have problems with the themes of this ad, then you live up to the expectations Ann Coulters of this nation. And when you project that posture, you do what liberals have been doing to their agenda these last 4 decades, being its most effective stumbling blocks. That alone should make you puke!

-RB

76. John wrote:

logic … by nature, I am a fiscal conservative and a firm believer in open-market capitalism, which means that far-left liberals like Obama make me nervous.

I already pay plenty of taxes and I’m not eager to pay more for social programs that have proven over the decades to be ineffective at changing society.

Some of Obama’s positions and ideas make sense but I think his overriding approach is that of a true, died-in-the-wool, tax-and-spend liberal.

The fact that he inspires so many closet Marxists is a red flag, pardon the pun. And despite what many people on here say, I think his past associations are another warning sign (just as Bush’s were).

77. John wrote:

I suppose that should read “dyed-in-the-wool” …

78. carisma wrote:

Marc,

wait wait wait… hold up. So, you mean to tell me that all that defending Barack Obama that you do on tv, is to change white people’s opinion of black people? Yet, you try to discredit him here? That makes no sense. You either like Obama or you dont. No need to use Obama as an excuse to get tv shine. No dry snitching!

Understand that black people are the population minority here. He cannot win with just black votes and trying to pander to “black issues”. I am sure that Obama is more open to addressing these issues, but he has to play the game to win first. If Obama talked about the issues that you want, he would have not made it this far. He would have been painted as a Jesse Jackson and the media wouldn’t take him seriously. I know that Obama is just another politician and I would hope that he changes the unfair policies that destroy urban communities, but Obama is fighting forces bigger than himself. Give him credit for making it this far. He learned the white man’s game, and is using it against them. Every black man cannot use the same form of action to change this country. You do it your way, and let Obama do it his way.

You are doing white people a favor by hating on Obama no matter how much you “take up” for him on tv. These white folks will pull every negative thing you said about Obama off of this site and use it against you on tv, then you will be left looking stupid while they laugh at you.

Black Rule #1
Never talk negatively about another black person in the presence of white people to avoid the use of your comments to create hard feelings amongst the black persons.

79. Logic wrote:

“I am a fiscal conservative and a firm believer in open-market capitalism”

Then you aren’t concerned about what’s “best for the country as a whole”!

80. John wrote:

logic:

You can come back with clever lines all day but it doesn’t change the fact that socialism and marxism are failed concepts that have been proven again and again to be morally and fiscally bankrupt.

Capitalism and open markets provide the greatest possible opportunity for the largest possible portion of society.

Of course, it is true that capitalism creates losers as well as winners, and we need to be able to balance that fact through government programs that support the less-fortunate while encouraging individualism and self-reliance … without damaging the economic climate that fosters entrepreneurship and profit.

The problem with some conservatives is that they care too little for capitalism’s losers.

The problem with many liberals is that they have no real understanding of economics … they want to “kill the golden goose” — the very economic engine that makes government programs possible — through excessive taxation and heavy-handed regulation.

81. econwhat wrote:

Dr. Hill you said:
“It’s not that I don’t have hope, I just choose to invest it in the people and not Obama.”

I say them dollar bills go straight into your pocket from the Fox payroll Doc, you ain’t throwing them in the air and letting them trickle down to “the people” no matter how “barbershoppee” you sound on this site…that said I ain’t mad at you…you gotta do it, get it done, do it as quickly and correctly as you can…LOL…but seriously,

WHAT THE HELL DO YOU WANT BARACK OBAMA TO DO OR SAY THAT HE ISN”T PRESENTLY TO GET YOUR VOTE AND/OR GET HIM ELECTED?!!!

Or will you continually critique (which anybody who’s got something to lose should do by the way) and sit out another election?

I’m not kidding, this is a legit question Dr. Hill.

82. Marc Lamont Hill wrote:

“So, you mean to tell me that all that defending Barack Obama that you do on tv, is to change white people’s opinion of black people? Yet, you try to discredit him here? That makes no sense. You either like Obama or you dont. No need to use Obama as an excuse to get tv shine. No dry snitching!”

Umm, I think you missed my point. I don’t go on tv about Obama to “get tv shine,” nor do I go on there to change white people’s mind. I am a social commentator, often on television. My job is to offer my analysis of the issues. Sometimes Obama is correct, sometimes he’s not. This isn’t about like him or not liking him, it’s about his politics. Contrary to what you’ve implied, I don’t change or adjust my position when I move from tv to print/blog media. For example, I challenged Obama’s Fathers Day speech ON TELEVISION because I thought it was wrong. I agreed with Ralph Nader’s critique of Obama ON TELEVISION because I thought Nader was right. Conversely, I defended Obama on Jeremiah Wright ON TELEVISION. I also defended Obama on the flag pin controversy ON TELEVISION. Your comment suggests that there is a contradiction between my statements on TV and other places. SHOW ME WHERE!

“Understand that black people are the population minority here. He cannot win with just black votes and trying to pander to “black issues”. I am sure that Obama is more open to addressing these issues, but he has to play the game to win first.”

If you believe that, then you should vote for him. I think Obama is a political opportunist who will not advance black issues once he’s in office. This is why I don’t support him. The fact that I take this position, however unpopular, doesn’t mean that I’m being mendacious or jealous or any of the other labels being thrown out here. It also doesn’t mean that I dislike him as a person. Maybe I just don’t want to vote for him.

“I know that Obama is just another politician and I would hope that he changes the unfair policies that destroy urban communities, but Obama is fighting forces bigger than himself.”

Your echoing my point.

“Give him credit for making it this far. He learned the white man’s game, and is using it against them. Every black man cannot use the same form of action to change this country. You do it your way, and let Obama do it his way.”

But what if I don’t believe that he’s changing the country? What if I believe that his approach is HURTING the country, especially black people? Should I just “let him do is thing?” because he’s black? That’s crazy!

“You are doing white people a favor by hating on Obama no matter how much you “take up” for him on tv.”

I’m not concerned with white people. I’m trying to help black people by fighting for them in public and private. My defense of Obama isn’t for white people, it’s because it’s the right thing to do. For exampe, even if I think Obama’s race politics is wrong, I’m not gonna hang him out to dry on Jeremiah Wright. Why? Not because I want to affect white people and not because i want “shine”. I’m doing it because the cultural integrity of black people is at stake. That is bigger than Obama. This is bigger than us. This is about the community. Please understand that my defense, as well as my loving critiques, are in the spirit of advancing us as a people.

“These white folks will pull every negative thing you said about Obama off of this site and use it against you on tv, then you will be left looking stupid while they laugh at you.”

I find two things troubling about this idea: 1) You assume that the critiques of Obama are in contradiction to the things I agree with. They are not. 2)I don’t care what white people think about me. They will do what they’re gonna do anyway.

“Never talk negatively about another black person in the presence of white people to avoid the use of your comments to create hard feelings amongst the black persons.”

So I shouldn’t have critiqued R. Kelly?

83. Marc Lamont Hill wrote:

“I say them dollar bills go straight into your pocket from the Fox payroll Doc, you ain’t throwing them in the air and letting them trickle down to “the people” no matter how “barbershoppee” you sound on this site…”

On what are you basing this? Do you know how much money I have spent on grassroots organizations? Do you know how many local movements whose rent I pay? You might want to check around before you say that.

“WHAT THE HELL DO YOU WANT BARACK OBAMA TO DO OR SAY THAT HE ISN”T PRESENTLY TO GET YOUR VOTE AND/OR GET HIM ELECTED?!!!”

Although I’ve written a bunch about this, I’d be happy to share my perspective on the candidates’ agendas. In fact, I’ll write a piece on it next week.

84. John wrote:

“WHAT THE HELL DO YOU WANT BARACK OBAMA TO DO OR SAY THAT HE ISN”T PRESENTLY TO GET YOUR VOTE AND/OR GET HIM ELECTED?!!!”

Obama is way to liberal for most of America.

For Marc, he is way too mainstream.

85. wouldn't you love to know? wrote:

“But what if I don’t believe that he’s changing the country? What if I believe that his approach is HURTING the country, especially black people? Should I just “let him do is thing?” because he’s black? That’s crazy!”

yes you should….shit we let everyone else do their thing, why can’t we let him???…listen, i agree with almost everything you’ve just said, and i take the lives of my people very seriously. it’s not about just letting him do whatever, because he’s black. it’s about giving him an opportunity to fuck-up, because he’s black…get it straight…

out of all the nominees, candidates, and assholes that are running or have ran for office, who do you see as the most qualified????…i’m just wondering…what is the solution then???…so if McCain was to be in office, what would be the difference???….not a GOTDAMN thing, but oil prices….

i understand your reasoning completely, believe it or not Doc.
but what i don’t understand is, why do you think he’d hurt the black race???….hey, it doesn’t always hurt to be curious, does it???

86. carisma wrote:

Marc,

I think the reasons on which you choose to criticize Obama are unfair. You have the right to observe and critique Obama, but wait until he gets into office before you start pumping your fist and chanting “Obama is not down for the cause”. I think his plans for better education, tax cuts for middle class citizens, and creating new job opportunities are the best way to curb the problems in the urban community. The biggest positive Obama has in my opinion is his direct roots to Africa. I think he has potential to help Africa reach it’s highest potential. The problem with black people is that we look for white people (the government) to baby feed us all the time. The government is NEVER going to have the interest of the poor or black in mind no matter who is president. This country was not created with black progression in it’s plans. All we can do as a black community is to do for self while pimping the system. Stop trying to force white people to give a damn about us, when we dont give a damn about ourselves. There is no sense of self pride or community in urban areas. White people can NOT and will NOT assist in creating black unity or pride.

As far as the R. Kelly comment, you lost me. Why is R. Kelly the punchline for everyone these days? And why does his name even belong in the same topic or category as Obama? That’s like comparing apples to onions, haha. He is an entertainer that has the attitude of most celebrities. I am sure white entertainers have done things, but they are NEVER asked to explain themselves. I admit that having sex with a minor, urinating on her, and videotaping it is immoral and illegal; but how can you convict a person when the victim doesn’t feel like they have been victimized? I blame the parents of the victim because they probably dropped her off over R. Kelly’s house because he was possibly paying their bills. Morality comes from the home, it’s not my place to teach someone morality. You either have it or not. Bottom line is, how many times have you played “12 Play”, “Your Body’s Calling”, or “It Seems Like Your Ready” in an attempt to “set the mood”? Yeah I thought so!

I still love you, Marc. Sorry for the “tv shine” comment. No hard feelings bruh.

Carisma aka Deana

87. Reason wrote:

hmm. i sense some intellectual paralyzation.

88. Logic wrote:

I’m with WYLTK, I would love to know how he is hurting black people. Please enlighten us!

89. carisma wrote:

Logic,

The idea of Barack Obama hurting black people is bullshit. Before Obama hit the political scene black people were hurt. How can one man save black people from generations of bigotry, sexism, racism, terrorism, poverty, and oppression in 4-8 years? The real issue is that people are expecting Obama to walk on water.
The saddest part is that Marc is probably looking for hip hop to save black people.

In my opinion, the most valuable asset Obama has to give the black community is the idea that even in a white society, anything is possible to black people. No more excuses! We need morality and pride, not more hand outs from white people. White people do not respect black people because we beg them for everything. Knowing they are our enemy, we continue to plead, get on our knees, or tap dance for them to give us their table scraps.

These black guys are killing me complaining how Obama did not acknowledge his father in his tv ad. Newsflash!!.. Like many black children, his father left him!! He only saw his father twice. You don’t see fatherless athletes giving their absent fathers praise. So, why should Obama? Obama respects and always talks about his Kenyan roots, but never really knew his father. Until I see Shaq or Allen Iverson praise their absent fathers, don’t expect to see Obama doing the same. Stop being biased towards your favorite rapper or athlete. Black men are either embarrassed or do not understand the severity about their lack of family household presence. You can’t deny the facts no matter how stereotypical they seem. Hypocrisy at it’s purest.

90. Tanya wrote:

WOW! There is so much BS on this post; I don’t know where to begin!

I’m going to hit the sack and attack this nonsense in the morning.

91. b hill wrote:

Tanya’s comment 2 is gold….I’d have to agree Marc…you are my buddy and we have the same last name..buy cha hating this brotha’s branding.

92. Regkam2 wrote:

Marc, I support your position in regards to Barack. But most of Blacks will not take a critical look at the position of the US Presidency. This position has been in captivity of the Wall Street Financiers, Corporate Power Structure, and Israel Lobby. Barack will be no different from Clinton, Bush, and Reagan. But many will disagree with this position because we are Blind and are caught up in the fact that a ‘Black’ man can make history. We keep saying this like this is equivalent to obtaining power and influence. Barack knows that his constituency is not black but white and Hispanic. This is why he has caters to them and as yet attended one Black event (except for church). He knows Black folks will vote for him regardless so why cater (or acknowledge) to them and their concerns. Also, History (or Change) doesn’t necessarily mean that it will be good for Blacks. Let’s look at the cities where the 1st Black mayors were elected (Detroit, Cleveland, Chicago, Memphis, Philly, LA, DC, etc). How did it collectively benefit the Black residents once the HNIC were in office? How was the economy of each city once they were in office? How was the educational system for the majority of Black children? Obamania will be no different than any other term (it may be worse), but time will tell. Check out the Black heads of African countries (most of whom were trained in the best of American and Europe’s universities).

Most Blacks are suffering from this ‘Messiah’ complex where we are looking for someone to save us. This explains why we would defend Obama even though most of us don’t have a clue about who he is and the circles he is running in (AIPAC, Council of Foreign Relations, Trilateral Commission, and Zbigniew Brzeziński). Too much faith in politicians………..not enough in each other).