Charles Black Politics Blog

A Heavy Weight Debate

2011-06-27T14:29:00.010-04:00

(Chicago, IL)- The leading Black rhetorical prognosticators are always at the ready to opine on any subject. They have dealt with everything from the usage of the N-word to the political poetic geniuses of Tupac Shakur and Christopher Wallace AKA “Biggie Smalls.”

So when word of a showdown between the pre-eminent duelers of word and Black culture, Dr. Cornel West and the Reverend Al Sharpton, announce they are going to lay bear their souls before the Black press, National Newspapers Publishers Association, there is a sense of something much bigger at play.

NNPA is struggling to stay relevant in a world where digital plays a bigger part in the world of African Americans who have abandon traditional strongholds in urban American and migrated to the suburbs. Leading this charge to evolve is Danny Blakewell who has merged his civil rights mission in Los Angeles and used his clout to take over the Los Angeles Sentinel and ask some of the nation’s storied Black newspapers to allow him to lead them into this revolution.

The Black press has had its challenges in this current environment. The African-American press' position as the authority of Black politics through its endorsement of candidates and the writing of the narrative of Black life is unquestioned. They haven’t lost the soul of black folks, but they are in a tug of war for Black youth. This youthful culture does not have a sense of why there is a Black press. They are less tuned into news with impact, instead they ask for more items of entertainment value (who’s dissing who; who’s started a reality series; who was seen on the red carpet etc…)

The fact more African-Americans use cell phones to reach the Internet are a poignant commentary on what challenges face the Black press in today’s society. At the Drake Motel in Chicago, at their annual meeting all of this is laid bare.

“I’m trying to set up Facebook Page for the NNPA,” says Richard Muhammad of the Final Call Newspapers. The Black Press has been slow to adopt some the technological tools many reporters use in their work. Two of those who’ve embraced the technology are in attendance, Benjamin Phillips, IV of the Baltimore Afro-American Newspapers and Denise Rolark Barnes of the Washington Informer. Rolark-Barnes who inherited her paper from her dad has been using the “new media” phenomena with traditional print.

Long before the rest of their brethren had embraced the net the Afro for a long time was in the space and leading the charge for change. Phillips and his cousin Jake Oliver of the Afro-American Newspapers were early adopters of the Internet moving in a direction a lot of Black newspapers should have been in years ago.

So with all this Black press power in the room the anticipation of Reverend Al Sharpton and Dr. Cornel West alleged duel brings out a who’s who. Predictably, supporters fall into either camp. There’s Dr. and Reverend Michael Eric Dyson whose books on culture are must reads (Rev. Marcia and Dr. Dyson are celebrating their 19th wedding anniversary today). Then there is Maulana Karenga and his wife, the father of Kwanzaa, getting a front row seat. Making an unexpected entrance is Martin Luther King, III the son of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. As I enter the hotel, the Reverend Jackson lets me know he’ll be listening. The Reverend Benjamin Chavis Muhammad, former head of the NACCP is here. Charles Ogletree, famed Harvard University Legal Scholar is outside the room selling his new book, but gives up the merchandising to see for himself. George Curry will be moderating the event. Lastly, Roland Martin of CNN and Tom Joyner Morning Show fame is using his new device to stream live and tweet simultaneously to the world. I’m seated with former NABJ President Herb Lowe and his wife Mira Lowe who are experimenting with a new twitter tool call “Storify.” It allows you log tweets as a running thread (genius).

The air is thick with possibilities. Some have suggested this is the “Thrilla in Manila” event. Rev. Sharpton quickly dismisses this suggesting; "If you came for a circus" then go to the Chicago Zoo. Despite this announcement no one is running for the doors. With this much “Black Star Power” in a room you dare not miss a word.

After remarks during a luncheon we retire to an adjacent room for the discussion. During the remarks portion both make references to Gideon from the bible. I’m reminded Dr. West’s PhD is in theology and Sharpton being a member of the clergy I should be not surprised at the biblical references (may need to read the good book again).

The Discussion

The idea which leads to this discussion came after Dr. West suggested the President was concerned more about plutocrats and oligarchs and not about poor people. The discussion will only last 30 minutes but as an observer it packs a punch.

Cutting to the chase George Curry asks, “If you had to do it over would you have said things differently about the President?” West, “you mean my dear Brother Obama.” “You didn’t call him that,” says Curry.

“I say what I believe… I proceed based on my conception of the war that we are in … we are in a war with oligarchs and plutocrats who are greedy who don’t care about poor and working people and proceed to generate policies that produce neglect, abandonment, police surveillance, mass incarceration, mass unemployment, and in the prophetic tradition, in all of its humility always says, no matter, you tell the truth about the suffering of the least of these the weak and venerable no matter the cost…I support those who have access to Brother Barrack, be it Brother Sharpton, be Brother Ogletree or others… there is a role to play with those who have access…there http://www.blogger.com/img/blank.gifis a role to play for insiders.”

Sharpton chimes in responding to charges of insiders not challenging those who championing the varied influence (Wall Street, Investment Bankers, etc…).

“Maybe Ogletree or some of us was there… which is why others in the past have been close to other presidents. ..We ain’t the first one to have access…That ain’t nothin new. ..I think it would be more glaring if the first African-American President didn’t have anybody with access to him. So rather than us condemning those with access we need to say to them… we must hold them accountable.”

This exchange is why I came. The back and forth was riveting. I’ve posted a portion of the debate that will give you sense their rhetoric. I’m not certain we learned anything spectacular, but it was window into world which may have been as important as at the turn of the century when debates between W.E.B. Dubois and Booker T. Washington occured(I know these two would not like the comparison but “I’m just sayin!”)

Charles Robinson, III

The Revolution Can Not Die: A Tribute to Gil Scott Heron

2011-05-29T12:43:00.018-04:00

(Baltimore)- The news came like a “ton of bricks,” Gil Scott Heron dies in New York. For a group of Africans-Americans who came of age after the death of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and the aftermath of Malcolm X’s assassination, Heron spoke to us in a unique way. The hip-hop generation of conscious rappers knew of him and heavily sampled his most famous work “The Bottle.” He was their so call “God Father of Rap.” But the artist and the poet chastised them and didn’t like the title. He made clear in his thoughts in the Message to the Messengers,

“If you’re gonna be teachin folks you ought to know what you talkin about… You ain’t said no words I ain’t said.“

The platitudes that will follow his death will come in waves, but there is a generation which was defined by his emergence in the Black arts movement. We were militants without the guns but rather the pen.

I know this because I knew of Langston Hughes and Countee Cullen, but they were writers in books. The media choice for me was on record. I understood why Jimi Hendrix’s guitar wailed to the amazement of my white friends. James Browns, “Say it Loud, I’m Black and I'm Proud” and Nina Simone’s “Young Gifted and Black” were more than their words, their songs gave hope. I was still searching for an the answer and it came through the radio one day with the spoken word of Nikki Giovanni and her classic “Like a Ripple on a Pond.” It was both sexy and Black…it was young and eloquent…and it provides a means to speak to young ladies. Throw in Funkadelic’s “America Eats its Young” and my vocabulary expanded, but it was turned upside down by the Last Poets. Yea, with Afro, a liberation badge, and a black fist pick I was ready. I found myself going to see people who would become notorious, H. Rap Brown.

The brothers began to show up in parks (mine was Druid Hill Park) with congas and bongos. These marathon jam sessions would often feature poets and that’s when I first saw a poet named Gil Scott Heron in 1973(I recently discover he was working on his masters while living in Baltimore). He was riffing on something associated with Richard Nixon (I would later learn it was the H20gate Blues).

Traveling to college I was such a Sly Stone fan, I went to the music store to cop his latest album. While in the store they were playing “The Bottle” from Winter in America. I would purchase this album and take it back to my dorm. Hearing the Watergate Blues took me back to hearing him in the park. The Bottle however, became a signature song for those of us in 1975.

I would take my fascination with music and make it my major and career. This would allow me to receive much of Heron’s music. In 1976, when the world seemed consumed by the 200th anniversary of the nation, I questioned why any Black person would be celebrating. In a word I was bitter. To console my attitude was Gil,and Jean Claude T's, "Bicentennial Poet."

When my entire family went to see the tall ships at the Inner Harbor on the 4th of July, I refused to participate. I returned to school with lots of attitude. When the album Secrets arrived a song they were pushing was “Angel Dust.” I convinced a rock station to put an "Angel Dust" public service announcement by the artist into heavy rotation. He would come to Richmond on several occasions and I would get a backstage pass to hang out. Another song which got heavy rotation on the station was Johannesburg.

By the time I finished college, I was on my way to the West Palm Beach, Florida. In late 1982 album, Heron released an album called Reflections. Disco was starting to wane and here was this conscious album. R and B radio stations had given up on the artist. His music wasn’t commercial. Like many of his albums there was a spoken word song called "B-Movie" (a tribute to Ronald Reagan-I love the fact he refereed to him as Ray-gun). It was an interesting commentary on the Republican President.

In March of 1981, there was an assassination attempt on the president. Watching the event and listening to the song appeared to be the perfect sound track. Working at an ABC affiliate we had saved a lot of footage from the incident. I thought it would be curious to provide video of the shooting and the song. Initially, I was going to keep it for my personal files, but then I was asked to appear on a public affairs program at WPEC-TV with Anita Sewell. I felt I could use this with my appearance. The program was pre-taped and would air on a Sunday morning around 8 am. I thought nothing of it and did what I normally did. When I arrive on Monday the receptionist at the station stopped me. She let me know there were 10 messages on the switch board asking about the show and my appearance. I immediately made an extra copy and called the head of the West Palm Beach Urban League. I told him, "I need you to hold on to a tape in case there was a problem at the station." Later, Sewall would pull me aside and let me know she got a call from the owner. He’d received several phone calls from friends. She assured me it was nothing. I would leave the station before I could be questioned about the incident.

The Stevie Wonder Experience

Stevie Wonder’s affect on music is global. Wonder once open for the Rolling Stones and was booed. I think he learned from that experience. He was familiar with Scott because he appears on Songs in the Key of Life. The album wins a record number of Grammy awards and there is a credit to Scott on the album.

The follow-up to this album is Hotter Than July. In support of this album the plan was to ask Bob Marley and the Wailers to open the tour. Marley was diagnosed with cancer, the replacement Gil Scott and his band.

The album contains the most important song of Scott’s generation, "Happy Birthday," a tribute to Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. The song becomes an anthem which forced a reluctant President Reagan to sign legislation making January 15th, the official national holiday. The experience would change the spoken word artist. You can see a clip of their performance.

Reacquainted with an Artist

I step away from media in 1987, I come back in 1991. I make my return via WEAA-FM in Baltimore. As a jazz station we got a lot of jazz artist popping through the door. So you can imagine my surprise when we learned Heron was playing at a club in the city. I agreed to bring in my collection of former albums. Joe Lee was the music director. He reminded me that many of the discs had pops and scratches. I reminded him how I wore out the music.

When he arrived I was taken aback by his look. The vibrant young man who I saw in the 70's appeared frail. I would learn he battled a crack drug addiction. Despite his physical appearance, his performance was as good as I had seen him in the 70’s.

Off and on I would see articles about him. Several R and B, and Jazz artist of that era have found willing audiences in London and on the stages of Europe. Artist such as Marvin Gaye, Wilson Pickett, and Roy Ayers have found renewed interest overseas and returned to United States to find larger followings.

Picking up on Scott's work was the new genre of "Hip-Hop." While there was a wave of conscious rappers there were others who had dubious aspirations. The genre felt they owed something t o Scott and many sampled his work. They began calling him the “God Father of Rap.” It was a title he rejected as explained earlier.

Despite writing about the drug epidemic he wasn’t immune from it. He was arrested and went to jail.

Sometimes I get asked to attend events and the day gets the better of me. One of those invites came in 2009 with the "Poets in the Park" event. Gil Scott Heron was there, but I wasn’t. One of the young “Turks of Journalism,” Bobby Marvin captured the event.the http://www.blogger.com/img/blank.gifevent.

It is tough to measure the impact of Scott on generations of those who take to pen and pad, and try to capture what is going on. He was eloquent, poetic, professorial, and timely. He critiqued a society he thought was out of control and believed is still out of control. Truth is difficult to distract with spin. Scott knew this, and often confronted the conventional. Let the word go forth from here, how do you keep the revolution he saw alive because it will not be televised. Listen to one of his last interviews.

Charles Robinson, III

The Revolution Will Be Live

2011-02-10T13:55:00.002-05:00

(Baltimore) "Once one person wants freedom, then the whole damn world wants freedom," Gil Scott Heron the poetic spoken word artist seems to adeptly predicted what is unfolding across the world. I find it curious the imposition of democracy has failed miserably. If history has taught us anything the ability of people to decide their fate can't be stopped. Despots, Dictators, and those controlled by outside forces should be shaking in their books.

In an earlier post I talked about the evolution of black politics. This evolution is not limited to the America's. From Tunisia to Egypt we've witness "Power to the People." Do you think those who are in the street only read the Tale of Two Cities on the French Revolution. No, they studied revolution in all its forms.

Watch and learn because the next country to throw off the shackles is waiting. Enjoy this classic from Gil Scott and note how it relates to what is going in Egypt.

Authenticity

2010-10-01T20:15:00.006-04:00

Baltimore – Who and what is authentic is a matter of opinion. I have never prescribed to the Hip Hop generation mantra of “keepin it real.” Sorry swag with a bottle Ciroc does nothing for me; accept to prove that old adage “a fool and his money will soon be lost.” So it comes as a curious surprise to me when I was called to opine on the recent dust up between Philadelphia Mayor Michael Nutter and Former Mayor John Street.

It’s not the first time accusations on being “Black enough” have been thrown but in the current political climate they say a lot about Black Politics in its evolution. Harold Jackson’s Philadelphia Inquirer article is just the latest this year. What I think it’s missing is the real issue of authenticity.

Authenticity is a commodity Black politicians have used for years. It was a rite of passage. I think pundits have over reached on this “Post Racial Obama Era.” “Don’t believe the Hype.” Voters want reassurance. Last time, I checked minority populations are a majority or close to it in Philadelphia, Baltimore, DC and many others.

This new pandering, where it’s more important to court court white voters in this era, can have devastating consequences, just ask Mayor Adrian Fenty.
Also, trying to be Black at the last minute doesn’t cut it and neither does, “I’ve been Black all my life and ya’ll know me.” (Ask Pat Jessamy in the State’s Attorney Race in Baltimore)

I had a conversation a year ago with Dean Kurt Schmoke of the Howard University Law School. Schmoke is now considered the dean of Black Mayors in the United States (Former Mayor of Baltimore). Schmoke made an observation about urban mayors.

“They court white voters at their peril. While some Black voters identify with race when voting, white voters are making a judgment decision as to whether you are competent and have the ‘intelligence’ to handle the job. After your first election you will never be able to obtain the level of white support following your first campaign.”

If politics have taught us anything solidifying your base is curial to any election. “Dance with the people who brought you to the dance.” Running against the system is easy. Challengers can point out problems and express what expectations will be in the future. Once in office every ill is laid at your door step.

Philadelphia like many urban centers has seen an influx of the majority population back into these cities and a rise in Latino voters who’ve not yet flexed their voting muscle(but they are coming). There are several strategies to tackle this issue.

1. You make an assumption these voters are less likely to vote for you and will likely look for an alternative.
2. Use this group to point out uncertainty with a challenger.
3. Don’t alienate your base to chase voters who can neither put you over the top nor provide a margin of victor because they will be siphon off by so call “also ran candidates.”
4. Urban centers are less about media campaigns but rather retail politics (shake hands, be prepared to engage people even if they won’t vote you – be prepared for them to say, “I don’t agree with what he did but at least he/she heard me out.”(Ask Charlie Rangel in New York)

Is it about old school versus new school politics? No it’s about connecting. Show what you stand for; is it about schools talk about the successes, is it about crime talk about successes, if it’s about economic development, talk about successes and don’t be afraid to talk about economic empowerment of communities of color (is this so taboo these days).

What some Black Politicians have failed to do is play by the rules in place now. So what are these new rules? Early voting (let’s mobilize before Election Day because people in the other party are). Absentee ballots allows for an apathetic electorate to vote when you meet them (Trust me the other side has known this for a long time). Search for votes in rich vote territories (leave “Pookie and dem” behind – look for neighborhoods where people own their own homes, search for senior centers, read the readouts from last election).

I received a heads up on the Nutter v. Street quote. I believe the citizens of Philadelphia would love to see these politicians slug it out in front of the Rocky Statue. But that’s not what this is about. It may make for a media spectacle, but not for raw politics.

Here’s a suggestion, Nutter shouldn’t take this personally but use it politically. Like Booker in Newark his challenger represented the past. The future for Nutter can’t just look like areas around U Penn. But is it to late. The constant question I think a lot of politicians miss is the question voters are asking, “What’s in it for me.” You must be able to answer this question because your base is asking for solutions and you have to deliver. If you don’t, “see ya!”

C3

Curious Case of Alvin Greene

2010-08-10T12:53:00.011-04:00

Baltimore – In the political season that many are calling a referendum on President Barack Obama it is curious that the season has produced Alvin Greene. Just to refresh those who have not heard of Greene he captured the Democratic Primary for U.S. Senate in South Carolina. It has people like me scratching my head, wondering why?

Here is a man who saved the $10,440 to file for the Democratic Primary. Congressional Members Black and White questioned his intentions suggesting he was merely a plant by the GOP (similar challenges in the Palmetto State are not uncommon). The leading Black Congressman for South Carolina, Representative James Clyburn suggested this(and others did as well) when they learned of the win.

Similarly, Greene’s primary opponent, Vic Rawl a Charleston County councilman and former judge, suggested something must be amiss in the election. Candidate Greene, who hails from Manning, a small town in South Carolina, was probably more shocked than anyone. He racked up nearly 30,000 votes. A number of political observers called it “a fluke.”

But the truth they same is sometimes stranger than fiction. Here is a sampling of comments heard from voters: “his name was the first on the ballot; I thought he was Reverend Al Greene (a soul singer from the 70’s); all I knew I wanted to replace the incumbent.” This last sentiment is plausible as we have seen various politicians whom seemed to have secure positions bounced by the electorate.

I’ve been reporting on this voter restlessness. In many instances it hasn’t affected most Black Politicians. The “Tea Party” has claimed a number of victims but not so much in Black Political circles. What is evident is the Black electorate has come of age. Where there is scandal the results don’t bode well for incumbents.

Examples include Rep. William Jefferson of Louisiana where he was bounced for accepting millions of dollars in a telecommunications case (I still can’t believe he hid money in his freezer). The most recent victim is Rep. Caroline Kilpatrick of Detroit. She could not avoid the “sins of her son,” Former Detroit Mayor, Kwame Kilpatrick. Waiting in the wings are a pair of veteran Black Politicians, Representatives Charles Rangel and Maxine Waters.

Congressman Rangel has a litany of problems. The allegations include asking for tax breaks on various homes, accumulating several rent controlled apartments in his district and taking sponsor paid junkets to the Caribbean. All these charges come as he seeks a 21st term in congress (the irony is Rangel is facing a challenge from Adam Clayton Powell, Jr. he replaced his father in 1970).

Congresswoman Waters’ situation is a little different. She was recently charged with ethics violations by the House Ethics Committee, but defended her position during an interview with Roland Martin on the Tom Joiner Morning Show.

These are all very curious cases and I believe are coming of age stories for Black Politics. The tried and true political aspirations for African-Americans are changing. The assault is not coming from the post Obama Generation struggle but rather from failure to heed that old adage, “all elections are about local issues.”Adding to this is the often quoted saying, “power concedes nothing without a demand.” Which brings me back to Alvin Greene case?

A Splash in a Bucket or a Wake in an Ocean

My initial thoughts on Greene mirrored much of America. Not very bright, not well spoken, elusive, a possible stooge ect… But listen to Greene his message is simple, it’s about jobs, education, and infrastructure (roads/sewer/energy).It’s not polish which is refreshing. I want to remind you this is a candidate who garnered 30,000 votes in a reliable Republican state.

I’ve come around to belief, “Why not Alvin Greene.” His back story would be a storied political tale. A 32-year-old unemployed military veteran seeks to bring back a state rank 49th in most surveys. You won’t hear that tale from the incumbent, Republican Senator Jim DeMint. His apparent claim to fame is the often quoted remark about health care being the president's "Waterloo" which would "break him."

What Greene doesn’t have is Black Political pedigree? So what is the pedigree in Black Politics. I believe it is a combination of things.

1. Name recognition from relative (think Ford’s – Harold Ford, Jackson’s- Jesse Jr., Kilpatrick etc…)

2. Wallowing in the fields. (Obama’s shunning of Wall Street to do activist work)

3. Mentoring by previous politicians.

4. Running for dog catcher, city council, state delegate, state senator etc…

5. Bring civil rights experience to bear on politics.

The New Black Political pedigree has few of these values.

1. They have the audacity to run without the political backing of “tried and true” political structures.

2. They espouse ideas that sound and may be Republican ideas.

3. They are young and unafraid of "Blacklash."

4. A lost is a win in their opinion

5. They can be Republican and Black at the same time.

6. Toppling an incumbent who they revere is the end all to be all.

This later pedigree so encompasses much of what Alvin Greene is about in my opinion and he is not alone. There are others of his ilk and my brethren and sisters who cover politics have not connected the dots to understand this shift.

Is This Race Close?

Here’s what The State, the Columbia South Carolina Paper reported on August 3, 2010 about a poll showing Greene down by 42 points. “Alvin Greene, the enigmatic U.S. Senate candidate, is drawing 20 percent support in a Rasmussen poll of 500 likely voters. U.S. Sen. Jim DeMint, Greene's Republican opponent, is backed by 62 percent of voters.

Greene, who won the Democratic primary as a virtual unknown, is having trouble mustering Democratic support. Less than half of Democrats -- 46 percent -- say they plan to support Greene. Among Republicans, 96 percent say they plan to support DeMint's re-election bid.

DeMint has a 70-14 lead over Greene among independent voters.”

For uninitiated the Rasmussen Poll, is conducted out of New Jersey using random auto phone calls (when was the last time you did a survey with an automated voice). Several GOP candidates point to their polling which seems to favor their candidates when other polls which have actual people calling disagree. Hmmmm!!!

Lastly, does Greene have a chance? I don’t think so but remember what the new Black pedigree is all about. I’m going to watch and you should too. Will Sen. DeMint debate Greene?What’s the Senator got to loose? Will a restless electorate prove too much for an incumbent candidate who knows the public is looking to unleash anger at the status quo.

C3

Michael Jackson and Black Politics

2009-06-28T14:46:00.024-04:00

(Baltimore) The convergence of Michael Jackson and Black politics is part of the modern tapestry of 20th Century American life. Some of you may take exception; others will wonder why a pop icon and politics are intertwined. Music, arts, entertainment and politics are often commingled sometimes in unhealthy ways. They feed each other as if it were a spectacle at the coliseum during the Roman era. It’s the roar of the crowd, the empathy, the ability to touch people personally, and the acceptance that you are one of us which the audience can give and take away. Jackson over the span of his lifetime had all these traits and political figures wanted to glow in his flame. But like the narrative of far too many figures in history, the adulation was both all consuming and elusive.

The Visual and the Message

As a young man growing up in Baltimore I remember the first time I heard about the Jackson 5. It came from a 13 year old girl who asked me and a friend to go with her to a record shop to buy a 45 record called, “I Want You Back.” When we arrived at the store, the attendant new exactly what she wanted. 45 records were the quintessential music marketing tool for inner city youth. The price point was perfect, one dollar. It enabled you to play multiple artist and songs by stacking them on top of each other, keeping the party going as long you didn’t exceed the stack limit. Before we left we asked the guy to play the song. It was different. It didn’t have the do-wop harmonies of the Temptations or the screaming guitars of Sly and the Family Stone. It was young and spoke directly to our age group (or at least to girls who were of that age).

There was no visual to accompany the record. All it had was the Motown label, showing the Detroit roadways and the writer of the song, “The Corporation.” Note it would be nearly six months before the visual of 5 young Black men on stage. This lapse in time allowed me and my friends to visualize who they were.

This time plays directly into Black Politics. It allows you, the individual, to visualize not just who you are, but who you would like to be in life. This is the key element in Black Politics, defining self. As I look back, the writer of the song, “The Corporation,” is another visual which ingrains a collective spirit. All these traits are subliminal but begin to define modern Black Politics.

Several years before the arrival of the Jackson 5 there are several entertainment events which galvanize Black life for many of my peers. The arrival of James Brown and his song “Say it Loud I’m Black and I’m Proud,” Sydney Poitier’s winning of an academy award for Lilies of the Field, and Nina Simone’s, “Young, Gifted, and Black.” They gave youth gumption, boldness and inspiration. These varied inspirations also forced Motown to change it's motto from "Hitsville" to "The Sound of Young America."

The problem, the people trumpeting this era of youth were over 30 year’s old. They were defining success for generations not yet born.

No Turning Back

Ed Sullivan and his television show was a communal living room for America. He broke ground for Black America by showcasing Black stars. For White America he introduced the majority community to what we as African-Americans already knew, Black America was much richer and deeper than the depictions from Hollywood. His run of securing top acts from America and Great Britain was unprecedented. The rise of the Jackson’s first single and subsequent singles on the charts made them a natural for the show. It would be the first live performance by the group. They were more electrifying than billed. I know in my household, like many Black households, there was instant identification with band members. I recognized they all had neatly shaped Afro’s which I also wore. The age range had something for everyone.

When they finished their performance, Ed Sullivan asked the group to come over. The conversation lasted all of about one minute, but forever changed television and also informed Black Politics. The performance said,“there was a new dynamic going on, and it was youthful.” From then on there were certain requirements for Black Politicians. Afro’s were in - crew cuts out, bold colors in - staid colors out, and more importantly youth was happening. If you could find a band of young kids in your neighborhood it was the right element.

Several politicians road this wave and became some of the early Black mayors in America. There was Carl Stokes in Cleveland, Maynard Jackson in Atlanta, Tom Bradley in Los Angeles, and Gary Hatcher in Gary, Indiana, the home of the Jackson’s. This formula lasted through most of the 70’s as the Jackson 5 became synonymous with success. The take it to man experience was in vogue but excellence was all a part of nomenclature of the moment.

Unlikely Divorces

Success has a way of pulling at hearts. Formulas for success are just that, they are predictable and changing a formula can be built with peril. The disco era consumed Motown artist in some good and bad ways. For the Jackson 5 it was awkward, they had aged and so had their audience. It was no longer about bubble-gum songs but rather “Shake Your Booty.” It also added excesses from sex, drugs, and partying. They were clean cut and the world wanted edginess. It was during this time the group bolted Motown and joined Epic Records. It was also during this time Michael Jackson began to explore projects outside of music. He would be cast in the Wiz as the Scarecrow. Remember what the Scarecrow wanted most; a brain.

If we watch Black politics during this period we see the number of Black politicians swell. Part of the growth is about Black solidarity and the other is about "get mine." The patronage system which Blacks had loathed became the means to reward friends and associates. Those in the system worked the system. At the being of this the era, Dashiki’s and Black Fist were the norm. It was great visually and scared the hell out of "whitey." The disco era produced polyester suited politicians (a euphemism for the type of politics they practiced). The excesses by politicans during this time proved they were no better than the whites they replaced. Crossover appeal trampled racial solidarity. The Bakke Case in the Supreme Court sent the message leveling the playing was out. Affirmative Action became polarizing.

As we look at Jackson and his brothers during this period they seemed more comfortable with white audiences rather than black ones. They had crossed over. Some questioned, "Did they give up their Blackness inorder to appease a public which didn't want to see color(Blues artist Robert Johnson called this “Selling your soul to devil.”)."

Reinvention

Like most Black folk I know status quo is not in option. It will kill you if you don’t look over shoulder. Jackson knew this better than anyone. He dropped all pre-tense of wanting to be in a group and went solo.In Black politics we see the beginnings of this same feeling. Strong armed Black Politicians like Willie Brown in California, Marion Barry in Washington,and Coleman Young in Detroit could “call the tune and people would dance.” (Essentially, do what I want). They were each solo artist who could be Black enough when they wanted, leveraging their power in a white world.

By MJ’s second solo album under the Epic label, “Thriller” he had established a track record and exploited it by writing on his own mirror “biggest selling record ever.” It’s during this period we see the rise of the Reverend Jesse Jackson and his first run for President. Rev. Jackson had all the pre-requisite skills. It was an insurgent campaign that used a core audience (Blacks in urban areas) to win in major cities. He then broaden his appeal via his “The Rainbow Coalition” to scare the "bejesus" out of the establishment. The "Run Jesse Run" slogan is in many ways was talked as much about as MJ’s “moonwalk” at the Motown 25th Reunion Special. By the Democratic Convention the question became, "What does Jesse want?" For MJ it was, "How did he do it?" For Reverend Jackson, "It was can he do it?"

When one reaches the top of the game of life, it’s suggested all you can do is fall down. The critics went after both men. Jackson had the "hymie-town" comment, and questions about the occult surfaced around the Thriller video (each was “much ado about nothing”)

Clearing a Void

Both Jacksons continued to have a hold on the imagination of people but they begat imitators and revisionist. Their critics were vociferous, relenting, and questioned their relevance with their core audiences. These naysayers still could not crack the audience adulation. In the scheme of things they were still relevant, but not as influential. Politicans paid homage to past, but understood being to closely link could be detrimental. In Black politics this is called, “I like you, but I can’t be seen with you.”

MJ following his last major release suggested the record label was being racist a couple of years ago and employed the likes of Rev. Al Sharpton to state his case in public. This I believe was many years to late. No one believes MJ was a victim of discrimination and having Sharpton standing next to him seem to add to the skepticism. Politics does make strange bedfellows.

Both Jacksons had their ethical issues. MJ’s relationship with children gives me the creeps. Reverend Jackson’s fathering a child while still married killed his moral high ground. There are too many similarities with these two men.

Death Makes Us Think

I've thought about MJ a lot since his death. What political linkage would he have made in the future or would he been regulated to a Las Vegas star who’s light went to quickly. I guess we will never find out.

Can't Believe What's Happening

2009-03-16T11:39:00.003-04:00

Baltimore - I've watched the fits and starts of the Obama Administration and realize the "world of instant gratification" will never allow him to move beyond point scoring the media has resorted to in the build up to "100 Days."

Multi-tasking is the way of any President. Domestic to Foreign Affairs there is never a dull moment. I am very concern about SAWB's. I know getting the best and the brightest has been the coded message coming from David Axelrod, but like other SAWB's they are missing a mix of people who could bring new perspectives.

I asked several people during the campaign, "Is there a company that matches the candidates vision." Is it Caterpillar? Is it Google? Is it Apple? Who meets the presidents expectations. Forget those who are ideologically opposed to the president. There had been some talk of adding Richard Parsons to the Obama advisers. I'm not certain he's the right person.

Help me out people is there a corporation, business, CEO, and/or CFO that meets this presidents expectations.

Should I Take The Money?

The president is getting beat up on his economic stimulus plan. I am amazed at Republican Governors suggesting they aren't willing to take stimulus money. The person who takes the cake is South Carolina Governor Mark Sanford. Governor Sanford who's state has a nearly a 10 percent unemployment rate says he would take the money only to use it to reduce the states debt. Help me here...how is reducing the states debt stimulative? Some have suggest there is something bigger at work?

Part of what's in play is the GOP's message. There is none. Despite Micheal Steele's election as the head of the RNC Committee people inside and outside the GOP are giving him grief.

He got into trouble for taking on the voice of GOP, Rush Limbaugh. Limbaugh fired back and Steele ends up with an apology. Two weeks later in GQ Magazine Steele suggested abortion is an individual right. Damn, talk about going after the core of the GOP. He may not be ready for prime time but he's exactly what the doctor ordered to shake this political party.

Steele is facing party operatives he had to fire and they steaming. They will not go away silently. They are planting traps and he seems to step into them. The oddity is the party is talking about replacing him. Go ahead! The time the GOP will be in the wilderness will be strengthen by his ouster.

Finally

There are few places where my voice on Black Politics can be heard. I feel very fortunate for all the opportunities people have afford me on radio. Last week I was privilege to be a part of the last News and Notes broadcast on NPR. The show has had several names and host (Tavis Smiley, Ed Gordon, Farai Chideya, and Tony Cox).

The creation of the Bloggers Roundtable allowed me others who vibe in spaces like this to have a voice and reach people who may have not heard of our blogs...I know for certain I'm not just about venting. I want you to say wow I hadn't heard of that. I hope there is place for mine and all the other unique voices have a place to expand on what we write.

C3

Change Works for GOP Too

2009-01-30T18:58:00.003-05:00

Annapolis – Maryland’s first African-American Lieutenant Governor was elected to lead the Republican National Committee today. Michael Steele, from Prince Georges County (a Washington, DC suburb), was selected to lead the GOP after six rounds of voting. He beat out South Carolina Republican Party Chair Katon Dawson. Steele took 91 of the 168 votes needed to become the parties chief strategist and leader. Those watching knew there was something up when Steele scored 46 votes putting him in second place in the first round of voting. The former Lieutenant Governor continued to out distance his five rivals breaking through on the six round of voting. The winner needed 85 votes to win he had six votes to spare.

“It’s time for something completely different,” said Steele. The day did not start with the celebratory mood. Delegates staying at the Washington Capitol Hilton received a flyer under their door suggesting Steele wasn’t “tough enough.” In the rough and tumble world of GOP politics this is big. The party which claims Lincoln has had a tough time coming to grips with it post slavery message.

Up until the fifties most African-Americans were members of the GOP. The party fell out of favor following President Richard Nixon’s so call “southern strategy.” Dixiecrats (southern Democrats) flocked to the Republican Party with the passage of the Voting Rights Act. Most legislatures and governorships were in the hands of Democrats but, this was what some called an “abomination.”

These were coded words for southerners who hailed states rights and derided the intervention of feds in their way of life. Fast forward to the mid seventies and the GOP went after welfare coining the phrase “welfare queens” and attacking “affirmative action” programs as “quotas.” Yea, this is the same party Michael Steele will lead.

This mantra of change is palatable. As I said in an early post the “status quo is unacceptable.” Change comes in all shapes and sizes. Claiming victory with change has its pitfalls. The old guard doesn’t give up power easily and the talking heads will likely find Steele lacking.

My New Best Friend

In the press room where I work in Annapolis all of us recounted the stories where we featured Steele. I was not immune. The phone rings and it’s the press secretary of former Governor of Maryland, Robert Erhlich.

Greg Massoni, “Yes, we were just ecstatic. The governor made a number of phone calls on the Michaels behalf but, we weren’t surprise” by the win. Massoni continues, Michael’s election proves “we’re a big tent party.” The Governor can be credited with launching the career of Steele. Despite Maryland being a Blue State; Erhlich, a Republican won. He was able to take the issue of race off the table by selecting Steele. Massoni recognizes how his time as the second man in charge of Maryland played into today’s selection, “it gets us to the next step.”

Late in the afternoon, Steele’s successor Anthony Brown, Maryland’s current Lieutenant Governor (who also happens to be African-American) weighs in with his own press release.

“I sincerely congratulate my predecessor and neighbor, Michael Steele, for being elected Chairman of the Republican National Committee. I wish Lt. Governor Steele the best in his new role. I am confident that he can bring an end to the RNC’s recent partisan approach to the challenges we face and reach a hand across the aisle to work with President Obama in restoring progress and prosperity to our great nation.”

Final Thoughts

If change is what America wants, they will get it in Michael Steele as the head of the Republican Party. I watched as he has ventured into areas that heretofore weren’t even thought of by the GOP. New ideas will be formulated; he will chase away GOP demons; and is likely to piss-off a few people doing it.

The comparisons to Obama aren’t fair. He’s different but, not a radical. He’s cautious. I’m reminded of a private conversation we had about an education commission he was leading on changing the school culture. He suggested in a report we should “pay math and science teachers more than art and music teachers.” I told him he was wrong. Setting up a two tiered pay system would fracture a system that already has enough problems. He seems to understand, suggesting it was important to get the best and brightest into the schools to teach. I told him then you need to change the conversation and policy.

Steele will tell you if you ask him….I pose lots of difficult questions. I have to…it’s what I do. I know at some point our paths will cross. We will be cordial but when it comes time I will again ask him difficult questions. At the end of the day I believe he will tell you, “Charles is tough but fair.”

Steele would like for you to believe he comes from the traditions of Frederick Douglass and other abolitionist who shook the Republicans to start a Civil War and ended up eliminating slavery. It's great to quote historical figures but it will take more than great quotes.

The GOP has changed the conversation for now but it will take more than a narrative to bring this party back from a hole it has dug for itself.

The Journey of a Lifetime

2009-01-21T19:00:00.009-05:00

Washington, DC – I arrived at my location underneath the presidential viewing stand with my colleagues from Maryland Public Television knowing we had the best seats at the capitol. The day was filled with many images that will stay with me forever. The reverence of the crowd and its ability to connect with the president continues to be an enduring conversation. I was especially touched by those who told me their stores about how they had survived the terrible times of “Jim Crow” and the cruel institution of segregation. There collective voices were embodied in Rev. Joseph Lowery’s benediction. “Black will not be asked to get in back, when brown can stick around...When yellow will be mellow. When the red man can get ahead, man; and when white will embrace what is right. That all those who do justice and love mercy say, Amen.” While I sat watching I kept coming back to the millions in the crowd that filled the mall. It was surreal. Chants of Obama were frequent. They seem to come up like a wave from an ocean. These are some of my observations from my vantage point.

Observations

With the introduction of George Bush we heard the crowd signing we didn’t know what it was until the sound grew louder. The were singing the classic crowd anthem for a loser…”Kiss Him Good Bye” “Nah na nan nah…hey hey hey good bye!!!” Midway through the speech I turned to look and there were Denzel Washington and P-Diddy standing during the entire event. Why did they stand?

What was up with Chief Justice John Roberts butchering the oath of office? The sad part, it’s created new internet rumors (which will not go away). Yes, suggestion is he’s not president because he did not recite the oath (give me a break). News Flash they just did a redo.

In one of the strangest moments, I am looking up at the president giving his address and a bird of prey comes into view high above the capitol. I thought it strange. As I look closely it appears to be a Red Tailed Hawk. I decided to Google what a sign like this means. This is what I learned.
“Part of the Role for the two-legged(man)beside whom a Red Tailed Hawk flies is that of Guardian of the Earth Mother. These are individuals who will possess an astute awareness of the concept of the interconnectedness of all things, and will have an inner reverence for all life. These are the souls that are involved in making the world a better place, whether locally or globally. They will be protectors of the Earth Mother and tread softly upon her, encouraging and educating ~Others~ to do the same. Often, they are either found initiating or actively involved in environmental causes, where their keen perception and insight will serve their chosen ~cause~ well. Yet it is their day to day existence and fundamental philosophy/foundation of action and belief, that distinguishes these individuals as true champions of Mother Earth as they seek to live in harmony with the ~Ina Maka~ and all that She births, provides, nurtures and sustains.”
Deep !!!

Here are my observations on the Inaugural Address.

That's the Ticket !

2009-01-20T08:13:00.006-05:00

Washington, DC- Well it's finally here. A story I've been covering for 4 years gets its grand crescendo today. Barack Obama is sworn in as the 44th President of the United States. This will be my third inauguration and it doesn't compare to the others I attended.

You'll see I literally have a front row seat (section 2). I left DC last night following a reception for the National Association of Black Journalist, Witness to History. While I'm not the oldest one at the reception veterans of past campaigns were there.

I had to make a critical decision about how I was going to get into the district. All the outlying metro parking lots were full by 7:00 am (yea, I got a late start). With the sun coming up those wanting prime spots were on the mall staking out positions. I decide to take the red line in from Silver Spring.

I find there is mosaic of people going to this event. The most excited maybe those who saw the beginning of the civil rights movement and worked to end "Jim Crow." People are orderly but determined. It's cold today in DC. People are dressed warmly but this will not sway the anticipation. They've come from all over the nation for this event. "I can't believe I'm witnessing this," is a common phrase.

People have their cameras and will click photos of each other. People will be talking about this for generations. The TV audience will surpass events like the superbowl.

I've now got the get in the security line I don't know if I'll be able to post during the event because of the blackout of wireless devices in the area I'm in. But I'll be back on line following the event.

I Love You Back!

2009-01-17T21:57:00.005-05:00

Baltimore - "I love you back!" Barack Obama's retort to the crowd at the War Memorial Plaza in Baltimore, Maryland was emblematic of a day which drew attention to the president elect in ways no other president elect has ever had to deal with it.

The "Tour" which I'd like to call it...because it reminds me of a rock tour...has the trappings of "hero worship." I've watch this building momentum. It's palatable. Yes, I have a front row seat to the inaugrual event and will tell you my impressions at the event.

I'm amazed at those who want to downplay this events importance. This is big with lots of symbolism. You might as well call this "National Black Holiday Weekend." Black folk I know have taken off from Thursday to Tuesday. Some without pay others saying I'm cashing in my comp time for this event.

The train trip he took today was symbolic of Abraham Lincoln's trip to the White House. For those of you who are unaware, Lincoln came through Baltimore in the middle of the night because there was an assassination plot. Trains in those days didn't run straight through. So when the president came in at 3 am a group of horses moved the train from one track to another.

The next day a train carrying Lincoln's wife and a brigade of troops stopped in Baltimore. The citizens were upset with Lincoln's victory and were spurred on by a columnist showed up to greet the train and the troops. The troops decided to march through town. They are pelted with dishes, silver ware, and horse crap. The troops fired into the mob killing two and wounding many. The incident was widely reported and became the theme for the second verse of the state song, Maryland My Maryland.

So you can imagine my interest in this visit by Obama. There was no mention of Lincoln today but references to Fort McHenry and the "Star Spangled Banner."

He referenced the American Revolution which he says still exists. "The American Revolution was - and remains - an ongoing struggle in the minds and hearts of the people to live up to our founding creed."

I think he was referencing the change necessary to move the country in a different direction. There is a general sense on January 20, 2009 the world will change. Get a clue people. This job is enormous.

Optimism

There is something going on with this Inauguration. I've never seen anything quite like this. As a journalist I am skeptical. The optimism is evident. Mounting bad news is waved off. International incidents (GAZA) will end on this day. Doubt is not option.

What will I and you see on Tuesday...a spectacle of enormous proportion. Is it me but are officials essential telling people to stay away from inauguration on the mall? Get a grip, people are coming, get over it.

If you get a chance drop me a line about what you hope to see and expect to see. For more pics check out my facebook page.

Mr. Obama Goes to Washington

2009-01-05T14:36:00.008-05:00

"O is in the house." That would mean the President Elect Barack Obama is in Chocolate City. It must be nice to move from digs in Hawaii to the Hay Adams Hotel in the District just up the street from the White House. If it's Monday then it means time to get to get to work.

O started his day with making sure the girls got off to school. Then it's off to Capitol Hill to meet with Speaker of the Nancy Peloski. His arrival was like that of "rock star." Lots of pictures.

But events overtake the president elect. Let's start with the withdrawl of Bill Richardson as Secretary of Commerce designate. Apparently, his connection with a contributor and a state contract are under investigation. So back to being governor of New Mexico. Governor Richardson says he didn't want to cause any controversy.

Too bad because Roland Burris is sucking the wind out of all coverage concerning this next congress. Burris, the former Illinois Attorney General, was selected by Illinois Governor Rod Blagovich to replace Obama in the U.S. Senate. It's torn everyone. Congressman Bobby Rush inflamed the situation with his insistence that "the Senate is acting like an exclusive club." Obama was the senate's lone African-American. But this appointment doesn't pass the smell test.

Burris made the media rounds appearing on Tom Joyner Morning Show, CNN, MSNBC, and one last minute press conference at Midway Airport in Chicago. Here's the problem. His credentials were presented to U.S. Senate clerk and was rejected. The problem the paperwork only had one signature (the governors). To validate it needs to have the Illinois Secretary of State Rich White. This is going to get messy.

Burris is in Washington, while noble, is nothing more than a circus. Lots of cameras, soundbites and little to do with being seated. The case most sited is the Adam Clayton Powell's challenge to be seated. From where I sit these are two different cases. However, at the end of the day it may be the Supreme Court which will make the decision. Hey just add this case with the Al Kranken/Norm Coleman race in Minnesota.

Distractions

The Gaza incursion by Israel needs to be wrapped up by Inauguration Day. I'm sorry I'm not buying in this notion that the "collateral damage" i.e. civilian casualties is acceptable. Sorry, an invasion is just that. No there should be no rockets from Hamas. There needs to be a better way. Are Israels recognizing there will be change with Obama? I think you can bank on this.

Change

As I write this Leon Pannette has been announced as CIA Chief. Get ready for change in the slowest moving department in Federal Government. A new survey by Armed Forces Magazine suggest the military is suspect of Obama because he hasn't served in the military. It's common for those with military background to be suspect. I'd like to suggest look at what you military leaders gave you. "You go to war with the army you have not the army you want." "Be innovative." Yea right.

GOP

While most Democrats are celebrating, the members of the Republican Party are spinning over what direction they should go in lieu of Democratic victories. The chair of the Republicans Party is up for grabs. It's a mess in the GOP. A recent CD sent to Republicans called "Barack the Magic Negro" is insulting. There are six people vying to lead the GOP. Two are black, Ken Blackwell and Micheal Steele. Steele has picked up the mantra of change. Blackwell has pushed his conservative credentials. I'm laughing while I'm reading a Politico article entitled "Everyone is Pissed." I for one am putting money on Steele (he is a long shot but with everyone tearing each other down). The bad news the GOP is going to be in the wilderness for a long time. There base in the south is turning people off in other parts of the country.

By Week's End

Barack will give a major address on the economy Thursday. Here's what we know car sales are down, unemployment is up and no one is feeling the need to spend. The president elect wants a package to get people back to work. Will the Congress give the new president the "honey moon" he needs? Good Luck.

Lastly, where's the dog Mr. President?

C3

Jackson Is Candidate 5

2008-12-10T17:08:00.004-05:00

(Washington) Jesse Jackson, Jr. is the named the candidate who is referenced in the Governor Rob Blagojevich probe. Jackson's attorney and the congressman acknowledge it today.

Congressman Jackson said he met with the governor for the first time on Monday. It was the first time the pair had met in four years. The question would be why would it take so long for these politicians to meet. Maybe in hindsight it was a good thing.
In the four minute press event he took no questions, but there are several question that still hang in the balance.

1. Who would be on a call talking with the governor on his behalf? He's suggested he authorized no one to do so.
2. Is he still interested in the Senate job?
3. Can he still operate with his name so closely linked to the biggest Illinois scandal?
4. What next?

I want to answer this last question by suggesting if Jackson was candidate number 5, then who are 1-through-4 and is there a 6 and 7? Don't all of these individuals need to make their case before the press because they will also be under a cloud of suspicion.

This is like a onion...there will be many layers. One thing is for certain the governor is at the center of this investigation. Can he find a graceful way to move out the way. We'll see.

C3

Ilinois Politics Affecting the President Elect

2008-12-10T13:06:00.005-05:00

(Washington) Talk about a "bombshell" the revelation Illinois Governor Rob Blagojevich was prepared to cash-in on Barack Obama's former senate seat just adds to this year's historic election.

If you've been living under a rock, know Governor Blagojevich was arrested (normally not the case for white collar crimes) at his home yesterday morning. In a 76 page federal criminal complaint he is recorded saying, the Senate seat is "a [expletive] valuable thing. You just don't give it away for nothing."

"I've got this thing and it's [expletive] golden and uh, uh, I'm not just giving it up for [expletive] nothing."

The governor who has been under investigation threatens to take the seat himself if he can't get the people who want the seat to playball. He is even shrewed enough to take on the president elect. The governor expresses frustration at his inability to have his offers considered and refers to Obama in extremely crude language: "[Expletive] him. For nothing? [Expletive] him."

The Patrick Fitzgerald the federal prosecutor who asked for the wiretaps called the revelation Blagojevich's "conduct would make [ Abraham] Lincoln roll over in his grave."

The governor and his chief of staff, John Harris, were simultaneously charged with conspiracy to commit wire fraud and solicitation to commit bribery as part of what officials say was a wide-ranging scheme to shakedown campaign donors and politicians for high-paying posts and millions of dollars in campaign contributions.

Fitzgerald said represented Blagojevich's "most cynical behavior" was the governor's effort to sell the Senate seat.

Prosecutors said Blagojevich gave serious consideration to appointing himself to the Senate seat, believing he is "stuck" in his job as governor. Recordings, according to the affidavit, showed Blagojevich thinking about going to the Senate to avoid potential impeachment in Springfield and to try to remake his image for a possible 2016 run for the presidency.

The irony is today is the governors birthday. I doubt he'll be blowing out of candles today as the pressure mounts on what he should do.

The calls for Blagojevich to resign are came quick fast and furious from notable Illinois politicians including Senator Dick Durbin and now from Illinois' President Elect Barack Obama.

Anyone who takes the post in this current climate will be tainted. I know Congressman Jesse Jackson, Jr. wanted the seat. The bigger question was did he or someone in his office agree to playball with the governor. If they did should he be disqualified?

Was Valerie Jarrett one of Obama's aid in close personal contact with Blagojevich's emissaries about the position? It's thorny.

Who knew this along with bailouts of the Detroit automakers would be dominating the news cycle prior to the inauguration.

I'm waiting on two press events, Sam Zell will be on CNBC at 3 pm est. and Jackson has agreed to take question after being identified at Candidate #5.

C3

So I Won, and This Is What I Got!

2008-11-17T23:11:00.010-05:00

(Baltimore)- The state of euphoria surrounding the election of the nation’s first Black President is starting to loose its luster as the enormity of the job has revealed itself. This isn’t for the meek. There are multiple moving parts with no clear solution and second guessing being blood sport.

The current president, George W, Bush, is still in charge. He remains relevant and more importantly, “we only get one president at a time.” He could just play caretaker but, has decided to engage himself. The two most obvious places are in the economy and Iraq.

The meeting of the G-20 has saved “W” some face with his long time supporters. Everyone’s economy is the tank. The world is paying attention, but just like the American public, few world leaders are prepared to continue the insistence that free markets and unfettered regulations are the key to prosperity. The concept is slowly being discredited. There are those who continue to believe having some free market economics is a good thing. The real bad news is the next American administration is not totally sold on ideas being floated to help the world economy.

The recent accord worked out by Iraqi Parliament to keep American armed forces in the country until 2012 is a real slap at what the President Barrack Obama has been saying, “I want out in 16 months.” Gentleman there’s a new sheriff, follow orders or go home. Unlike the current administration the President Elect is not about continue the same policy. Who knows what it will take to undue this treaty because I’m sure they are looking at 16 months (no doubt about it).

The Parade

The pilgrimage to Chicago seems to be on everyone’s must do list. Sure there have been a number of former Clinton appointees seen around Chi-town and mentioned as cabinet members. Even Hillary Clinton’s name was floated for Secretary of State, but why not Bill Richardson (he’s been ambassador to the United Nations).

Rahm Emanuel for chief of staff is a good choice. I predict however he will not last the first term. This is about territory and many people will be fighting for the president’s ear. Can he co-exist with David Axlerod?

The politics of this type of administration is strung out with BlackBerry messages that could make your head spin. Welcome to the world of the tech-no-file politician. There motto seems to be “give me ten minutes and I can give you the world.”

Valerie Jarrett will like be Obama’s bulwark against over reaching. Her work within the inner circle will be crucial to staying on message and also creating an air of competency. I’m wondering, who becomes the "pit bull" in defending the president’s message?

Lastly, they say the president must not have a BlackBerry. I get it, but he’s going to want something to communicate with and to people (in the comments section let’s hear what you think he should have).

The 60 Minute Interview

Flip Wilson playing Geraldine would say, “What You See, Is What You Get!” The man continues to put people at ease. (FYI, he did this with me).

I thought it rather interesting the conversation about his mother-in-law coming to the White House. I think most men have a love/hate relationship with their mother-in-laws. They help with raising our children but part of us is always reminded, “This is our mother-in-law (I feel you Barack I just lost my mother-in-law).”

I expect to see more of these types of one on one interviews to soften the hard edge of a press briefing. (Remember he’s only the President Elect.). Don’t think for an instance that as a reporter of color I won’t be critical. I will give him the benefit of the doubt. I’m looking for an intelligent approach to the complexity of the American way of life. Solving just one of the myriad of challenges will be an accomplishment.

Detroit Bailout

One of the big three will have to die. Unfortunately, it will likely be GM. There red ink is enormous. Giving them money right now would be like using a band-aid when you need a tourniquet. A public relations ploy will help Ford and Chrysler, but they all are in such dire straits. The public can’t stomach another bailout.

Speaking of bailout, who wrote the rules on how the money from the bailout was to be used? Was it Secretary Hank Paulson or was it the Congress? Oh yea, that’s right Treasury and the Federal Reserve Bank has to report to congress about what they are doing with the money. No one in this group seems to singing from same hymnal.

The Dog and School

Can this pallor game end soon. The dog isn’t going to be here until January. Sasha and Malia are little girls, give them a break. It’s no fun when you can’t be normal. Think about it? Every time you want to go anywhere, there’s a big dude with sun glasses talking into his wrist. School will be a refuge. They are the new kids coming from Chicago. This is the age when clicks are formed and rebellion seems normal. Good luck. Remember your dad’s the president.

The Inauguration

This is the new federal bailout plan for Washington/Northern Virginia/Baltimore. People are coming and there is no place to stay and everyone wants to be a part of history. The numbers are going to be big. Entrepreneurs you have enter NIRVANA. Money will flow like a mighty river (I though that was freedom). Tickets to the outdoor inaugural are premium and no one has them. That hasn’t stopped the internet from selling them at inflated prices. It’s hot free ticket. Parties will be the second big thing following the inauguration and the parade.

The build up to the swearing in will continue to force the country to deal with a truism that people aren’t comprehending, there’s a new president and he doesn’t look or will act like any president who’s come before him. “Get ready something big is about to happen,” from Close Encounters of the Third Kind.

For those of you interested I appeared on the News and Notes on NPR today. For those in the Washington, DC area on Friday, November 21, 2008. I'll be be kicking off Watergate II with a session called "Emerging Politics" at the National Press Building 5:30 PM

C3

What Have God Wrought?

2008-11-04T23:26:00.005-05:00

Baltimore - "What Have God Wrought?" was the message Samuel Morse sent in his first telegraph message. It ushered in an era that could never be reversed. Tonight we see another moment in time which will never be reversed. The country has elected its first African-American president. This is the country which counted black slaves as three fifths of a person. Who knew?

Time and time again the country ruled against the simple idea all men are created equal. The nations highest court codified the rules which did not allow Blacks equal justice. Heck the nation fought a Civil War to end slavery. Despite the war southern states were loathed to extend full citizenship.

During all this time Black people did not waiver in their support of this country fighting in its wars to maintain democracy. How ironic, because they could not enjoy the fruits of this country.

Frederick Douglass lashed out in the North Star. W.E.B Dubois wrote about "the color line"...Jesse Jackson heard the roar of the crowd say "Run Jesse Run." Obama has fulfilled all of their promises.

I am in awe. When I wrote about him four years ago some of you thought I was crazy. I believe he had something then and he still has it.

We will mark time by this event. Our children inherit a world where they can truly be anything they want. They are a part of the Obama Era.

Grant Park Speech

As a triumphant warrior. the president elect, strode to the stage with his family knowing he had done the impossible. The crowd was estactic, but poised to hear from the new leader of the free world and he did disappoint.

"Let us summon a new spirit of patriotism; of service and responsibility where each of us resolves to pitch in and work harder and look after not only ourselves, but each other. Let us remember that if this financial crisis taught us anything, it’s that we cannot have a thriving Wall Street while Main Street suffers — in this country, we rise or fall as one nation; as one people."

Channeling Lincoln following his own election he said, "a nation far more divided than ours, “We are not enemies, but friends … though passion may have strained, it must not break our bonds of affection.” And to those Americans whose support I have yet to earn — I may not have won your vote, but I hear your voices, I need your help, and I will be your president too."

The story of 106 years old, Ann Nixon Cooper, made this speech have context. "She was born just a generation past slavery; a time when there were no cars on the road or planes in the sky; when someone like her couldn’t vote for two reasons: because she was a woman and because of the color of her skin.

And tonight, I think about all that she’s seen throughout her century in America — the heartache and the hope; the struggle and the progress; the times we were told that we can’t, and the people who pressed on with that American creed: Yes we can."

The "Yes We Can" becomes the call and response that raises the crowd in Grant Park to a cathedral with him as it's anointed leader. This is a moment in time we will not soon forget.

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OHIO

2008-11-04T21:37:00.002-05:00

(Baltimore) - The networks have given OHIO to Obama. This is big. With Pennsylvania going his way could Florida, Virginia and North Carolina be far behind. This might be a landslide.

It's a definite rejection of the arguments put forward by McCain....experience, socialist, and associating with terrorist. I'm sorry it didn't work. Young people didn't buy and neither did the middle class. Obama caught a perfect storm with gas prices hitting five dollars a gallon and joint economic collapse of the sub prime housing and the Wall Street meltdown. The unpopularity of the current President is aiding an electorate which wanted change.

Sarah Palin negated the experience issue. McCain's insistence the economy being his weak suit pulled him down.

I'm hearing it's close in Florida and Missouri.

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Problems and Calls

2008-11-04T20:13:00.002-05:00

(Baltimore)- It's 8 pm and the networks have started to call states; Obama: Massachusetts, Illinois, New Jersey, Connecticut, District of Columbia, Maine, Delaware, Maryland. For Mr. McCain: Oklahoma, Tennessee.

The states of Virginia,North Carolina, and Ohio are two close to call.

By 8:30 pm Pennsylvania is also in the Obama column.

Several Republicans senators will not be going back to the Senate. Three senate seats have changed hands. Are we on the verge of a landslide.

Problems

The Indianapolis Star reported a pair of Republican poll watchers were removed for challenging Democrats based on foreclosure records. A judge told the GOP not to do this.

Chesapeake/Tidewater area of Virginia has issues with soiled ballots.

Stopped by the NAACP War room on the way to radio station. They have an armed of volunteers putting out fires and solving issues at polling stations. Nothing was left to chance.

Grant Park

Over my shoulder is CNN which has a live picture of Grant Park in Chicago, Ill. The party has started.

Can the network hold off in announcing a winner of this race before the polls close in California.

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Election Day

2008-11-04T19:23:00.003-05:00

Baltimore - It warmed my heart to vote today. I can tell you it took me 1 hour and 15 minutes. The people in line were pumped. A number of people were voting for the first time, others hadn't voted in years and veterans were impressed. Few votes opted to leave before casting their vote. Lauren who stood with me in line said she hadn't voted in the last two years(which shocked me because she was over 30). "This is different." I'm preparing for my news analysis on WYPR-FM. You can listen in by clicking on the call letters. I also had a chance to visit one of Maryland's strongest Republican areas (Eastern Shore). It has a very contested congressional race. What I found interested was a woman who said she voted for John McCain but voted for the Democrat who was from the area. I believe there will be a lot of ticket splitting this election.

Reminiscing

With less than a day to go before this year’s Presidential election I’m caught up in reminiscing about Grandfather. My namesake was often a political prognosticator. From his seat on my family’s home in Richmond, Virginia he marveled when Doug Wilder, the grandson of a slave, became the states first African-American governor. It provided some of the most liveliest conversations. “Boy, you just don’t know,” he would say. My grandfather known as Charlie Robinson (I personally, hate this reference to my name, but have learned to tolerate as I’ve grown) saw the world through many prisms. He was a devout catholic, a savvy businessman, a stride piano player, and keeper of family secrets. One of his favorite TV Shows was Sanford and Son. In many ways I was Lamonte. Helping him salvage junk from Fulton area of Richmond.

I lived with him as a college student. I know I was stranger when I first moved in with him but became his confidant. I watched as he provided haircuts to white men who had known him for years. Some of them thought he was white. The odd looks during some of the sessions were purely ironic. As they often tried to get him to agree with him on issues of the day. Secretly, he tolerated them because they provided him the means and the way to operate in a white world as a Black businessman.

My grandfather would have been star struck by a black man on the verge of being a president. This man once told me the story of the sculpture of George Washington on the statehouse grounds. The construction crew was asked which way Washington should point. A stately white politician said, "to the south where the darkies should go." It was a reference to the state song which had overt racial references.

He like many older folks are amazed at this race. I've recently been tagged with this so Jones' Generation. For those who are unfamiliar to this reference it described as people who are caught between the Boomer Generation and the Generation X. The suggestion is the tag is for people born in 1961 (I believe they are a little older). Many of this group are many of the pundits you see on television. They are smart, politically savvy, and are at the top of their game.

I also believe they have live out the lives through the backdrop of songs including The Temptations, "Don't let the Jones Get you Down; and Billy Paul's, Me and Mrs. Jones. The Jones are supposed to be what you want to be and this demographic has flexed its muscle.

As I await the results I'm certain of one thing you can't predict this race. Black voters are energized. Let's find if they have the ability to pull it off.

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What If He Loses?

2008-10-28T15:04:00.005-04:00

After November 4, 2008 someone is going to be pissed. For John McCain and Barack Obama the closer Election Day gets there is this innate desire to be positive, but not be presumptive. The speeches they will deliver will try and erase lines like, “when we win” with “if we win.” No one wants to jinx the outcome. Polls show Obama with leads in places democrats have not won in the past. It also shows the margin in states like Pennsylvania, Ohio, Virginia, and Florida give McCain a mathematical chance to prevail.

I will be giving my analysts on WYPR-FM on election night. It is either going to be a short night or a very long night. I expect problems with so many first time voters, challengers, and critical states in play. I am psyched about the results either way. So let me bring some doom and gloom to the post.

OBAMA Loses

It is the headline his supporters will cringe hearing. Here’s what I expect the concession speech to sound like. “I want to thank everyone who did everything they could to make this campaign work. I have called John McCain and congratulated him on his win (crowd moans). We began this journey in Springfield, Illinois with the conviction the American public wanted change. The change they got through the ballot was an army of new voters who crossed racial, social, and income lines to cast a vote for me. But we must move ahead. The great experiment of America continues. God Bless, America.”

The analyst of the outcome will center on several areas: the bruising primary, the inability to connect with blue collar voters, and the not ready for prime time voters.

The primary challenge by Hillary Clinton will get plenty of play. Some will suggest her attacks damage him. There will also be questions about her enthusiasm. Lastly, some will suggest she wanted this outcome and get ready for 2012.

Despite having a monetary advantage and blanketing the airwaves it was not enough to change the minds of millions who were unsure of his politics. The last minute spots attacking him directly became effective and essentially canceled out his blanketed advertising.

The early voting fell Obama’s way but he was unable to close the deal with independents that split down the middle. He needed a plurality among this group. The enthusiasm showed by supporters could not be translated in places where he needed to win in Florida, Pennsylvania and Ohio. The African-American vote went 95 percent his way but this was not enough. He needed another coalition. The obvious coalition was white women. They have been called “soccer moms and security moms.” It was interesting the older you were the less like you were to vote for Obama.

Here’s the good news, despite losing he has won. He will return to Senate as the go to guy for any piece of legislation. He will still be the largest fundraiser for the democrat party. This is his second political loss but don’t count him out.

McCain Stumbles

Unable to change the subject from the economy Senator John McCain loses to Senator Barack Obama. “I’ve called Senator Obama and congratulated him on his win. I want to thank him for running a campaign which focused on issues rather than personality. By the way how about Sarah Palin. (crowd roars). I’ve been fighting for this country since I was 17 and don’t expect to stop now. Let’s join together and put our political fighting behind us. God Bless all of you and God Bless America.”

This is a telling moment in history. The country has looked beyond its dark past of slavery and entered into the 21st Century with its First Black President.

Inside the GOP the blame game begins. Some will point to McCain’s insistence not go negative early. Others will suggest the selection of Palin was a blunder, but the harshest criticism will be leveled at the campaign staff especially Charles Black.

Pundits will suggest the Republicans were doomed from the start by President George Bush. His unpopularity combined with political scandals, an economic collapse, and the war in Iraq was the undoing for all Republicans.

The big question now, “What does it mean to be a Republican?” Will the social conservatives have sway or will the fiscal conservatives have sway? Who is the new leader of the party and can they find a way to broaden their base. Too much has been left up to independent voters who’ve called this election.

The good news for the GOP is the Democrats are in charge and they will likely “screw it up” before the mid-term election. Spending cuts should their mantra. Behind the scenes several Republicans are gleeful the Democrats will be facing the financial debacle.

Assessment

I really don’t know if either of these outcomes will come true. People on both sides of this contest are committed. The lost will be personal. Will you be able to survive? Of course you will. Remind yourself you still have family, work, and a mission to survive. The stakes are high. No doubt about it. Watch as I will not just for the winner, but also how the loser spins the outcome.

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You Can't Make This Stuff Up

2008-10-27T16:14:00.006-04:00

I can't stop laughing and know you can't. This political season has been full of jokes that weren't meant to be from both sides.

You've heard of that adage "open mouth insert foot." The late night comics and the comedy shows have had a field day. Saturday Night Live is now the obvious leader despite trailing the Comedy Channel's John Stewart Show and Stephen Colbert Report. I caught a couple of the Stewart's Correspondents at DNC in Denver.

Those who are in comedy clubs have have added political humor to their routine. "How many of ya'll hear voting for John McCain (crowd claps). Now how many of ya'll are going to vote for Obama (crowd), as Comedian Ricky Shackleford brings the crowd to sustained laughter. "I've had to talk about the election it's the only thing people are talking about, says Shackleford.

Sarah Palin

"A pit bull with lipstick" the punch line for Republican Vice Presidential Sarah Palin on her description of a "hockey mom" has provided the most laughter. Her few television interviews did ratcheted up the comedy. Tina Fey, formerly of SNL-currently of 30 Rock, has the VP candidate down from mannerism to language. "You, betcha." The parody of her interview with Katie Couric will become comedy classic. The VP debate with Queen Latifah had me rolling on the floor.

This showdown between Faye and Palin scored one of the biggest audiences ever for SNL

The VP pick has spawned a number of people to sing the praises of her challenge.

Obama Off Limits

Several Obama supporters have taken offense to his parody's. Some comedians have had to issue statements such as "You can take a joke?" But it was a weekend stop at fundraiser in New York where Obama parodied himself.

Senator John McCain was also in good humor. He jumped into the fray.

I Shop at Walmart?

The most recent revelation of the Republican National Committee spending $150,000
on Palin's clothes is just the latest ironic twist. Especially since she and McCain continue to say they are for "Joe Six-Pack" and "Joe the Plumber." Shopping at Saks Fifth Avenue and Nordstrom doesn't seem to be in line with what they are telling voters.

It's interesting several of the cable channels have picked up on the idea there are few people of color in these skits. The Comedy Channel has launched "Chocolate News" and CNN has put on D.L Hughley. It's easy to get jokes, but I remind comedians know your audience. Failure to know them will mean they don't get the joke.

So you can't stop laughing. I'm hosting a political conference at Georgetown University called Watergate II: Did Politics Change Media or Did Media Change Politics. The conference occurs November 21-23, 2008 for more information you can go to http://www.nabj.org/mediainstitute/conferences/112108conf.php. You can see the interpretation of the season from a cadre of comedians.

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Ugliness and Endorsements

2008-10-19T19:53:00.002-04:00

(New Orleans, LA/Charlotte, NC) - I'm in a meeting on Sunday morning and we're interrupted because General Colin Powell has just announced on "Meet the Press" he's endorsing Barack Obama for President.
This is big. Getting the General's greenlight was seen by some as validation. It's what he said that was real damaging.

"Mr. McCain, I found that he was a little unsure as to how to deal with the economic problems that we're having. And almost every day there was a different approach to the problem and that concerned me. It's sensing that he didn't have a complete grasp of the economic problems that we had. And I was also concerned at the selection of Governor Palin. She's a very distinguished woman and she is to be admired. But at the same time, now that we have had a chance to watch her for some seven weeks, I don't believe she's ready to be President of the United States, which is the job of the Vice President. And so, uh, that raised some question in my mind as to the judgment that Senator McCain made.

I've also been disappointed, frankly, by some of the approaches that Senator McCain has taken recently – or his campaign has – on issues that are not really central to the problems that the American people are worried about. This Bill Ayers situation that's been going on for weeks became something of a central point of the campaign, but Mr. McCain says that he's a watchdog of terrorists. Then why do we keep talking about him? And why do we have these robocalls going on around the country, trying to suggest that because of this very, very limited relationship that Senator Obama has had with Mr. Ayers, somehow Mr. Obama is tainted. What they're trying to connect him to is some kind of terrorist feelings. And I think that's inappropriate.

I've come to the conclusion that because of his ability to inspire, because of the inclusive nature of his campaign, because he is reaching out all across America, because of who he is and his rhetorical abilities – and we have to take that into account – as well as his substance – he has both style and substance – he has met the standard of being a successful president, being an exceptional president.

I think he is a transformational figure. He is a new generation coming into the ... onto the world stage and on the American stage and for that reason, I'll be voting for Senator Barack Obama."

Wow !!!

Charlotte Stop-Over

As I land I'm amazed to see numerous people wearing McCain/Palin t-shirts. Dah, I forgot I'm in North Caroline which is up for grabs. Both candidates are crisscrossing the state. It's the first time the state has been in play in presidential politics since Jimmy Carter.

As I make my way to the B-terminal there is a restaurant with a NASCAR racer out front. Oh, this is NASCAR county. North Carolina has a lot of traits of Virginia. It's holding on to its southern roots while northern and educated folks are invading their state. It's meant good jobs but intellectual curiosity blunts some of the racism which held sway in the past.

I remember Obama is in Fayetteville, so I check out the Politico online and Fayetteville Observer. Headline downplays a woman yelling at Obama while visiting the Cape Fear BBQ & Chicken restuarant.

Campaigns will sometimes do these unscripted stops and Obama is masterful at using these activities to talk to people with the press in tow. My visceral reaction was "the south hasn't changed much." But a closer look shows how effective the message has soaked into the minds of some people.

Diane Fanning, 54, yelled, “Boo, socialist! Socialist! Get out of here!” Her intention was not to make news but rather give voice to what she had heard and had made up in her mind. Fanning is just two years older than me. She likely experienced the integration process first hand. I'm also going to guess she works with black people.

I'm guessing while growing up, her family probably didn't like the fact people were changing their world. She has accepted it, but just doesn't trust "colored people." Note, I didn't use the N-word because in these times its just wrong. I'm assuming she has a high school education and can easily be influence by media. She is a marketers dream. She has been a Republican all her life and can't imagine why anyone would vote for a "Liberal Democrat." If you asked her if she's a racist, she would deny it. But old ideas die had.

Obama will never be able to convince her, but the confrontation is example of why Obama may be on to something. "Confronting our fears." He talked about it when he denounce Reverend Jeremiah Wright. It must scary to think "a black man could be president." Older people are cringing at the thought.

I believe older white woman and some younger ones (not all)are especially susceptible to this because they visually have an image of a viral, oversexed, and angry black man.

Here's question that needs to be answered; Can you get pass your long held beliefs and vote your interest. It won't be easy.

The ugliness of the campaign is being played out in other places well. I located this fake dollar sent out in California categorizing Obama. There is two weeks left what could we be in store for?

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Tsunami, Tidal Wave, or Implosion

2008-10-17T17:26:00.000-04:00

(New Orleans) – We are down to the wire in this presidential race. The debates are over, several states are weighing in with early voting, and the targeting of undecided voters has ramped up. We live in very interesting times. We are on the cusp of a historic election where voters are engaged in ways they have never been. So what have we learned in this last week?

The Last Debate

Of the debates this was one most watched and had a level of engagement which heretofore had been missing. Senator John McCain was in a position where he had to continue the attacks against Senator Barack Obama.

There were several seminal moments some of them testy. Here are a couple of those moments.

McCain: I regret some of the negative aspects of both campaigns. But the fact is that it has taken many turns which I think are unacceptable.
One of them happened just the other day, when a man I admire and respect -- I've written about him -- Congressman John Lewis, an American hero, made allegations that Sarah Palin and I were somehow associated with the worst chapter in American history, segregation, deaths of children in church bombings, George Wallace. That, to me, was so hurtful.
And, Senator Obama, you didn't repudiate those remarks.

Obama: Well, look, you know, I think that we expect presidential campaigns to be tough. There is nothing wrong with us having a vigorous debate like we're having tonight about health care, about energy policy, about tax policy. That's the stuff that campaigns should be made of.
The notion, though, that because we're not doing town hall meetings...that justifies some of the ads that have been going up, not just from your own campaign directly, John, but 527s and other organizations that make some pretty tough accusations, well, I don't mind being attacked for the next three weeks.
McCain: But again, I did not hear a repudiation of Congressman...

OBAMA: I mean, look, if we want to talk about Congressman Lewis, who is an American hero, he, unprompted by my campaign, without my campaign's awareness, made a statement that he was troubled with what he was hearing at some of the rallies that your running mate was holding, in which all the Republican reports indicated were shouting, when my name came up, things like "terrorist" and "kill him," and that you're running mate didn't mention, didn't stop, didn't say "Hold on a second, that's kind of out of line."
And I think Congressman Lewis' point was that we have to be careful about how we deal with our supporters.

Joe the Plumber

If there was a conversation change during this encounter it was McCain trying to relate to a guy name “Joe the Plumber.” Joe was one of several people Obama met in Toledo, Ohio while canvassing door to door. “Joe” didn’t like the Illinois senator’s stance on taxing people making over $250,000 dollars. He called it wrong suggesting it would stifle his attempt to buy a plumbing business.

McCain: He looked at your tax plan and he saw that he was going to pay much higher taxes. You were going to put him in a higher tax bracket which was going to increase his taxes, which was going to cause him not to be able to employ people, which Joe was trying to realize the American dream.
Now Senator Obama talks about the very, very rich. Joe, I want to tell you, I'll not only help you buy that business that you worked your whole life for and be able -- and I'll keep your taxes low and I'll provide available and affordable health care for you and your employees.
And I will not have -- I will not stand for a tax increase on small business income. Fifty percent of small business income taxes are paid by small businesses. That's 16 million jobs in America. And what you want to do to Joe the plumber and millions more like him is have their taxes increased and not be able to realize the American dream of owning their own business.

OBAMA: Now, the conversation I had with Joe the plumber, what I essentially said to him was, "Five years ago, when you were in a position to buy your business, you needed a tax cut then."
And what I want to do is to make sure that the plumber, the nurse, the firefighter, the teacher, the young entrepreneur who doesn't yet have money; I want to give them a tax break now. And that requires us to make some important choices.
The last point I'll make about small businesses. Not only do 98 percent of small businesses make less than $250,000, but I also want to give them additional tax breaks, because they are the drivers of the economy. They produce the most jobs.

McCAIN: You know when Senator Obama ended up his conversation with Joe the plumber -- we need to spread the wealth around. In other words, we're going to take Joe's money, give it to Senator Obama, and let him spread the wealth around.
The whole premise behind Senator Obama's plans are class warfare, let's spread the wealth around. I want small businesses -- and by the way, the small businesses that we're talking about would receive an increase in their taxes right now.
Who -- why would you want to increase anybody's taxes right now? Why would you want to do that, anyone, anyone in America, when we have such a tough time, when these small business people, like Joe the plumber, are going to create jobs, unless you take that money from him and spread the wealth around.

Obama: I'm not going to...

This was McCain’s clearest message on the economy. But a funny thing happened after the debate as the talking heads start chatting up "Joe the Plumber" aka Joseph Wurzelbacher, “the winner of the debate” with nearly 14 references from both candidates. He’s not even a licensed plumber. By the way Joe only made $40,000 last year, not even close to $250,000. He believes one day he will and doesn't want to be given a higher tax rate. It's unfortunate a message that has been sold to middle class, "one day you will be as rich as us." Wacky. By the weekend his name was just another footnote in this campaign along with "Joe Six Pack", "the Real America", "Hockey Moms"," "Average Working Americans" and other code words being used this campaign season. But this resonates.

Despite these shots at Obama, McCain lost. In baseball terms "he didn't hit it out of the park." McCain was more forceful. Obama was measured. If there was any clear winner it was "Joe the Plumber."

Meanwhile, by weeks end the debate was in the review mirror and those of following this campaign were on to something else.

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October Surprise

2008-10-13T09:15:00.006-04:00

There has always been this notion in Presidential races there will "an October Surprise." The earliest notion of this goes back to the infamous ad of the little girl picking daises with the countdown and nuclear explosion. It jolted an electorate that was wavering over who should be president. Ever since surprises have been predicted, some materialized others just fizzled.

The surprise this go round however has come in many forms. The last face-off between Senators John McCain and Barack Obama in a town hall forum was one in a series of surprises. Let's just cut to the chase. The debate was a draw. What made this a draw was the overwhelming sense this economy is in the tank. The audience in the room and outside the room heard only one new idea during the 90 minute discussion. A proposal by Senator McCain to buy up depressed mortgages(its the first concrete message he's delivered on the economy). While members of the media were quick to jump on the new idea, the public has yet to hear a full vetting of what it means.

Wall Street Bailout Aftermath

What were they thinking at AIG? Hey we got the bailout let's continue business as usual. Let's send our brokers out to a California Spa and lavish them with $400,000 dollars in pampering. DAH!!! Congressman Elijah Cummings of Maryland thought it so incredible he couldn't believe what he was hearing.

The day before(10/5/08) Richard Fuld, Jr., former CEO of Lehman Brothers(that was forced in to bankruptcy), had the audacity to tell the House Oversight Committee and Government Reform Committee,"Not that anybody on this committee cares about this, but I wake up every single night thinking what I could have done different," he said. "This is a pain that will stay with me for the rest of my life." Oh, really?

Fuld dismissed a call to stop handing out bonuses to executives while the company was drowning in red ink. To add insult top executives also voted to pay bonuses of 23.5 million dollars to themselves during this time. If you think this is appalling how about Fuld's pay in 2000; an estimated total of $484.8 million. Fuld said that was a little high it was closer to $350 million.

These people live in alternate worlds and it's spilled into the Republican playbook making McCain seem more aligned with Wall Street than Main Street.

Attack Mode

The William Ayers issue is overblown. Ayers, a member of the Weather Underground a radical 60's group which targeted the government over it's involvement in Viet-Nam, is the latest "bogeyman." It's also fired up GOP crowds as McCain and Governor Sarah Palin have hit the stump. In Wisconsin and Pennsylvania this line of attack has stoked visceral exchanges bordering on "racial incitement." Lots of code words are being tossed. "Not one of us; associating with a known terrorist; Who is Barack Obama; Barack Hussain Obama; doesn't understand small town values etc..." The call and response have included chants of "terroist...terrorist...terrorist; kill him; etc..." This is unsettling. Firing up your base can also create a climate to spark a fervent supporter to take action into their own hands. Meanwhile, McCain has tried to quell this anger, but was even been booed when he told an audience "Obama is not an Arab."

But don't think Obama isn't beneath firing back. He acknowledge on the Tom Joyner Morning Show, "they may throw the first punch, but we'll throw the last punch." The appearance of a web documentary on the "Keating Five" was clearly the counter punch at the beginning of the week.

While I write this the polls show Obama has either a 8 or 10 point lead and he's a factor in several toss up states. This includes some traditionally red states. The ones you want to watch are Virgina, and North Carolina. Pennsylvania and Ohio is going to be tough for the senator from Illinois. The so call Bradley/Wilder Effect is being banded around. This is the phenomena of White voters saying they will vote for a black candidate but switch in the voting booth.

To stymie this there are several attempts by the Obama camp to counter the underlying perception of an African-American man is a scary guy. Over weekend Obama went back to his core strengths...talking directly to people. He also dispatched the Clinton's to Pennsylvania. One of the more amusing attempts comes from comedian Sarah Silverman of the Comedy Channel that asks younger Jewish voters to talk with their elders. It's pretty funny and profane(this should not be seen by youngsters) but also serious because in Florida perceptions and stereotypes are pervasive.

Problems

We are in the waning days of voter registration and this is becoming a big problem. There is an estimate there will be 5 million new voters on the rolls come election day. Near Gary, Indiana, the ACORN organization, a grassroots self help group which champions poor people, was called on the carpet for it's attempt to sign up voters. Of the 5000 voters they claimed they signed up half were illegal. This a problem and doesn't bode well.

There was also a New York Times article which show several states were using social security numbers to discredit new voters. The federal government says the numbers should be used as a last resort and not on the first go round. Adding to this problem is the purging of voter rolls 90 days before an election (this is illegal).

All this adds up to problems at the polls on November 4, 2008. There are going to be long lines, and challenges to voters (which will make the wait longer). I asked a colleague how long should it take you to vote? Her answer, "a half hour tops." It's going to be longer at some polls.

Each presidential election I make a stop at the National Office of the NAACP in Baltimore to their war room. This where they have attorneys on standby in various states to root out election day issues. They may want to double their numbers.

Last Debate

With so much at stake can this face off be civil? Will it delve into personal attacks? Can it focus on issues? How much will this debate be a deciding factor with the undecided voters? Can't wait to see.

OBW, Obama is so flushed with cash he has bought prime time TV on several outlets for October 29, 2008. The half hour blocks will air on CBS, NBC, and MSNBC. This comes one week before the election. A savvy move. If this campaign has learned from the primary season its the final weekend before the election which sways a lot of undecided voters.

Reports also say the Obama camp considered buying a NASCAR ad (painting your name on a car). It's nice when you can jump into areas where your opponent believe he's locked-up the key voting block of "NASCAR Dads." I don't think NASCAR would look kindly at injecting politics into car racing. But wait a minute, hasn't Cindy McCain shown up at several NASCAR events. So much for impartiality.

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VP Debate Analysis

2008-10-04T09:49:00.009-04:00

For all of its build up this was not the heavyweight prize fight we expected. I had argued earlier in the week on NPR’s News and Notes, Bloggers Roundtable, there would be diminished expectations for Governor Sarah Palin's performance, a demonization of the host (Gwen Ifill), and a continued desire to discount the media. Unfortunately, I was right on all three counts.

Although, Joe Biden and Sarah Palin were on stage together all eyes were focused on Palin. If you watched or listen you likely heard the Alaska Governor ask the Delaware Senator, "Can I call you Joe?" At the time this seem harmless but debaters use a lot of strategies to disarm powerful opponents. Being able to use first names rather than formal titles (Governor/Senator) means you're equals. This also can mean a deference which can catch you off guard.

Because this event garnered one of the largest television audience it was the medium that was the message. Being able to use it to your advantage is key. There are some quirky little things you do to contact with the audience. Palin a former sports anchor used all of them in her arsenal. Here are a few of them.

1. When the question is asked look at the questioner. Then turn to the camera and keep your head up not down. (We call this looking beyond the camera).

2. KISS. Keep it simple stupid. Answers were relative short. Very folksy (lots of darn, and heck).

3. Tell people what you are going to say. This was illustrated very clearly with her reference "I may not answer the question the way you want."

Memorable Moments

I didn't know in a debate you can say you won't answer a question but she did. The colloquial stories from Biden and Palin painted vivid pictures of who they are. Biden's accounting of his dad's decision to leave Scranton, Pennsylvania to look for work is an American story.

Palin's reaction to taxes was also classic American independence."Patriotic is saying, government, you know, you're not always the solution. In fact, too often you're the problem so, government, lessen the tax burden on our families and get out of the way and let the private sector and our families grow and thrive and prosper."

The Lines

Rehearsed or unrehearsed these are some of the winners.

Pailin

Let's commit ourselves just every day American people, Joe Six Pack, hockey moms across the nation, I think we need to band together and say never again. Never will we be exploited and taken advantage of again by those who are managing our money and loaning us these dollars.

The chant is "drill, baby, drill."

Oh, yeah, it's so obvious I'm a Washington outsider. And someone just not used to the way you guys operate.

"Say it ain't so, Joe."

Biden

Nine o'clock, the economy was strong. Eleven o'clock that same day, two Mondays ago, John McCain said that we have an economic crisis. That doesn't make John McCain a bad guy, but it does point out he's out of touch.

John McCain said as early as last December, quote -- I'm paraphrasing -- "I'm surprised about this sub prime mortgage crisis."

Gwen, with all due respect, I didn't hear a plan.

Issues in Common and Pitfalls

Both of these candidates have sons who are headed to Iraq. There is strong emotional tug at your heart as a parent to your flesh and blood to protect America. The suggestion they both say a prayer for the children means the Iraq War want be thought of as a numbers game.

Politicians have straddled the line on whether to recognized the rights of gay partners. The most contentious of these is gay marriage. Alaska is one of many states that recognize the rights of same sex partners to have joint insurance, visitation rights in medical situations, and to be contractually bound except in the cases of marriage. Governor Palin has signed this legislation and it is a part of her record.

Biden meanwhile has supported the same type of issues in the Senate and has gone on record for wanting to put such issues on a national agenda. He and Barack Obama agree it should not extend to marriage.

For both candidates this subject can be dicey. It can alienate voters and show contradictions. If you you're a so call "values voter" this may have seemed strange, a Republican willing to acknowledge the rights of gays. Conversely, a democratic who is against gay marriage.

The Moderator

By way of full disclosure I know Gwen Ifill. We have had conversations about various political issues. Her opinion piece in the New York Times on Don Imus was on point and should be read by every journalist.

Gwen is the only person of color involved in the debate series involving Presidential and Vice Presidential Debates (this is a tragedy). It's also the second time she has moderated the Vice Presidential face off. Her selection was made before Sarah Palin was selected by the GOP. Following the GOP Convention I worried there would be a concerted effort to "demonize" Gwen. Unfortunately, I was right again. On Wednesday, conservative pundits and talkshow host were calling for Ifill's removal because of a yet to be released book authored by PBS host. The book will look at Black Politics in the wake of Barack Obama's run.

Gwen, who broke her foot two days before the event, was put in a unusual situation. Her detractors were growing. Conservatives were aiming for here with a shotgun(the gun sprays doesn't necessarily hit a direct target); not knowing if she would fold, but she didn't.

There have been many comments on how tough she would be. I remind folks the story following a debate should not be about the moderator but rather the participants. This was the case but some questioned Gwen's inability to force the candidates to answer questions. As a former moderator for several debates I often tell participants "I reserve the right to follow-up and ask you to clarify your answers." Lastly, I think Gwen struck the right tone by letting the audience seeing the absurdity in answers and non-answers from both sides. For those wondering she gave a compelling interview to Tom Joyner on Friday.

Analysis

More than half way through the debate Governor Sarah Palin was winning. She held her own and was connecting in ways that few people understood. No, I didn't like the winks to the camera but there is a portion of the electorate where this resonates (I understand older white thought she was winking at them).

Biden, meanwhile, took the advice of his handlers not to attack Palin directly, but go after McCain. Although he was losing early, the emotion he showed when talking about the death of his first wife "flipped the script." Empathy is an emotion changer.

The suggestion by Palin she "may not answer the questions you want" is part of the spin the Republicans have seized on during this campaign suggesting the media is the enemy. Dah, without the media their message travels in limited circles. Sorry, the base of the GOP (conservatives, evangelicals, and "JOE Six-pack) is fractured. Selling the message to the laid off worker in Michigan isn't working (McCain has pulled his ad's and staff from the state). Florida retires aren't drinking the cool-aid. Those NY Republicans working on Wall Street (from front line workers to CEO's)are also switching.

The "perfect storm" is meandering (financial collapse, and the public perception Washington is corrupt) will mean this could be another year to "throw the bums out." I was playing golf with some pretty astute brothers and they suggested there are just to many "Dumb White People." While I don't prescribe to that theory there are voters who believe their self interest isn't tied to a Barack Presidency. Self interest is a powerful determinant in an election.

McCain desperately needs to change the subject. The economy is killing him. Pocketbook issues are what people are talking about. The next debate will mean giving more detail rather than broad outlines because its what people want to hear. Fellow Republicans have been asking, "when will you start attacking." McCaain's response, "how about Tuesday (the date of the next debate)." Lastly, the GOP nominee needs to keep President George Bush out of the headlines.

Obama, must continue to hammer home the economy. Friday's unemployment numbers while dismissal reinforce the concept of change. Unlike the line in the WIZ ,"don't bring me no bad news," the more bad news the better it is for his candidacy.

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The Debates

2008-09-28T12:01:00.005-04:00

(Washington) – A tumultuous week culminating in a Presidential Debate has shaken the news cycle as if it were a washing machine going through it various cycles. The week began precipitously with the announcement by the Treasure Secretary Henry Paulson and Federal Reserve Chairman Ben Bernake the financial services industry (Wall Street) was in worst shape and federal intervention was necessary.

Talk about changing the subject… “We need 700 billion dollars to stabilize Wall Street,” according to Secretary Paulson. Is our world falling apart or is it being undone and we just don’t know it? The first of the testimonies by Paulson and Bernake comes before a Senate Banking committee and it’s clear they don’t have their act together and are flying by the seat of their pants. Tuesday the chorus of those pooh-poohing the plan is bi-partisan. The proposal in its original form is likely to die if there aren’t negotiations.

Fast forward to Wednesday morning, Senator Barack Obama calls Senator John McCain. At the heart of the voice mail is a conversation about issuing a joint statement regarding the outline of a federal bailout plan which will protect “Main Street” rather than Wall Street. McCain receives the message and orders his surrogates to work on the language. Understand polls show Arizona is losing the battle on the economy.

I’m in Washington Wednesday afternoon for the Congressional Black Caucus. I’ve just picked up my credentials and talk with Deidre Childress, of the Philadelphia Weekend Magazine. She tells me Senator John McCain has decided he will stop campaigning, return to Washington, will skip Friday’s debate at the University of Mississippi and suggests the president convene all parties including the two contenders for president at the White House to hammer out a deal.

The conversation has changed in the unending 24 hour news cycle. The response from Obama, who is in Florida preparing for the debate, is he’s still going to Mississippi and “a president needs to be able to multi-task.” The pundits are in total spin mode, but a majority of those who cover campaign see this as a political ploy. Democratic leaders on in the house and senate concur, “McCain returning to Washington will do little to help the process,” according to Senator Harry Reid.

Initially, Republicans are caught in a quandary because it’s the “Presidents Men” who are pitching the plan. But this plan has the smell of day old fish. Meanwhile, poll numbers show the President’s approval ratings are 16 percent. There are rumbles from house Republicans about the scope of the deal and whether the government should be helping those business interests. Senator Richard Shelby from Alabama expresses his frustrations late Wednesday night. Meanwhile, Democratic leaders with some senate Republicans begin to shape a deal with several key issues. There will be oversight, there will be limits on executive compensation, and the government will determine which assets will be taken over. The president holds a prime address to tell the public about the problem and says he wants congressional leaders and the presidential candidate at the White House to discuss the problem. Wow, was he trying to help McCain? Obama says he’ll attend.

Thursday, the buzz is about a deal which Congressman Barney Frank says adheres to certain principles. At the CBC most attendees are a buzz about Obama being in town. There is a notable absence of Congressional members who are monitoring the situation hour by hour. The most notable activity is huddle over blackberry or eyes glued to plasma. Remember all of this is going over drinks and grub.

I stop in at Congressman Jim Clyburns reception and run into Mark Whitaker, the new NBC Bureau Chief. Between our conversations he’s getting constant buzz from his blackberry. “We don’t have a deal and things are unraveling,” he says.

I see Congressman Robert Scott of Virginia. I ask him about “the Old Dominion” which is seen as a toss-up state. “Barack’s going to win Virginia,” he says self assured. Obama has made several stops in the state which hasn’t gone Democratic since 1968. Trends however, show the state is changing from being this hotbed for conservatives to a more nuanced with its politics. This change is evident by northern Virginia with it high tech corridor and more educated population. “He will use the same strategy as Governor Tim Kane,” says Scott. Statewide you can win if you pull together northern Virginia, Tidewater and Southwest Virginia. It’s played itself out several times going back to Governor Doug Wilder who shocked the establishment with his win. The last hold outs for tried and true Republicanism are in the outer suburbs of Richmond and Shenandoah Valley. I press Scott for what percentage voter is needed for a win for Obama. “Maybe 80 percent,” I look at him with amazement. This is unrealistic in my opinion but this race has confounded me and those who follow it.

The White House Meeting

I get home to hear the deal has fallen apart. Word is there were some testy words at the White House. Republican Minority Leader Represenative John Boehner says there is uneasy with his house colleagues. McCain demands the House Republicans be heard on the bailout, but he has no constructive ideas. The democrats look as though they are carrying the president’s water and they are pissed. Obama’s must be thinking “I came back for this?” He stays in DC overnight but heads to Florida and then on to Mississippi. The Democratic Nominee has no idea if he’ll be at the debate alone or will be joined by McCain.

The analogy here, McCain has played a poker hand with a bluff. The dealer is asking him to turn over his cards. The people who are watching know this is the case and can’t believe he won’t go to the debate.

Will He or Won’t He?

All eyes on me, as McCain make several rounds on Capitol Hill. Chased by cameras for most of the morning he decides to go to Mississippi. There will be little prep but its clear McCain has dominated the news cycle going into the debate. Can he live up to the hype? Will Obama be more professorial than genuine? It’s the equivalent of heavy-weight battle with the “tail of the tape” strung out over primaries and campaign appearances.

The Medium is the Message

Unlike most people I initially experienced the debate via radio. Both men sounded confident with few memorable one-liners which the press holds on to and becomes the historically context for the election.

Unlike most of you Jim Lehrer of PBS gave explicit instructions to the audience. NO cell phones, no applauding, and no hoots or howls (“If hear any of this I’m taking it away from your candidate.”). Lehrer made a point, which I think the TV audience could have been prepared for, the idea to engage the candidates in a back and forth exchange where they could question each other and challenge premises.

This line of engagement was illustrated as the moderator asked the candidates; Lehrer asks, “As president, as a result of whatever financial rescue plan comes about and the billion, $700 billion, whatever it is it's going to cost, what are you going to have to give up, in terms of the priorities that you would bring as president of the United States, as a result of having to pay for the financial rescue plan?"

OBAMA: Well, there are a range of things that are probably going to have to be delayed. We don't yet know what our tax revenues are going to be. The economy is slowing down, so it's hard to anticipate right now what the budget is going to look like next year.
But there's no doubt that we're not going to be able to do everything that I think needs to be done. There are some things that I think have to be done...

MCCAIN: Look, we, no matter what, we've got to cut spending. We have -- as I said, we've let government get completely out of control. The point is, we need to examine every agency of government…by the way, I'd eliminate ethanol subsidies. I oppose ethanol subsidies.
I think that we have to return -- particularly in defense spending, which is the largest part of our appropriations -- we have to do away with cost-plus contracts. We now have defense systems that the costs are completely out of control.

LEHRER: But if I hear the two of you correctly neither one of you is suggesting any major changes in what you want to do as president as a result of the financial bailout? Is that what you're saying?

OBAMA: No. As I said before, Jim, there are going to be things that end up having to be

LEHRER: Like what?

OBAMA: ... deferred and delayed. Well, look, I want to make sure that we are investing in energy in order to free ourselves from the dependence on foreign oil. That is a big project. That is a multi-year project. (Obama goes into Medicare, and education spending, he’s not answering the question.)

LEHRER: What I'm trying to get at this is this. Excuse me if I may, senator. Trying to get at that you all -- one of you is going to be the president of the United States come January. At the -- in the middle of a huge financial crisis that is yet to be resolved. And what I'm trying to get at is how this is going to affect you not in very specific -- small ways but in major ways and the approach to take as to the presidency.

MCCAIN: How about a spending freeze on everything but defense, veteran affairs and entitlement programs.

LEHRER: Spending freeze?

MCCAIN: I think we ought to seriously consider with the exceptions the caring of veterans national defense and several other vital issues.

This exchange proved there are no simple answers and with this evolving situation regarding Wall Street no one knows what will happen next.

The War(s)

This debate was supposed to be about foreign policy. When it finally got to this issue Iraq and Afghanistan dominated. These two men are of two minds. McCain talks about how he supported the surge before it was popular. The surge by all measurements has stopped uncontrolled violence but doesn’t seem to get us out of the country faster.

Obama continues to pound on how this war is wrong and he stated his opposition early on. He uses the Bush administrations strategy as failed policy and pushes the idea McCain as president would continue this policy.

Meeting with foreign leaders also caused some heated moments with the evocation of famed Secretary of State Henry Kissinger. I’m guessing for the younger audience they were probably wondering, “Who’s this old dude they keep talking about.”

Analysts

Hearing this debate on radio gave me the impression McCain won. I suggest this because his answers were crisp simplistic. Obama sounded as like he was giving a lecture. The uninterrupted back and forth was refreshing without the drama. There was no “smoking gun.” The main theme was supposed to be about foreign policy and I tell you they just skimmed the surface. There was little talk about: Asia and its growing domination economically, the third world was dismissed, and Europe and its integration into NATO were only discussed in the context of invasion of Georgia Soviet Republic all these subjects needed dialogue.

I decided to see the entire debate on TV to gauge how it may have differed. I have come to this conclusion, Obama won it on TV. So why did the two debates come up seemingly different analysts? The visual of Obama and McCain together gave the underdog (Obama) stature. He looked presidential and came across as reasoned. The domination of economic issues plays into the Illinois Senators strengths.
McCain’s continued harping on issues he has said on the campaign trail didn’t play well to the cameras. Remember this debate was not for people in the room but rather those who are undecided and the growing legions of independent voters. These two groups have heard these tried and true Republican statements; “the market will correct itself; less regulation, get the government out of the way, and lowering the tax burden will get us out of this.”

Each of these men will retool for the next debate. Look for McCain to change the subject…soon. Obama’s narrow lead is a problem, “Bradley/Wilder Effect.” White voters say one thing to pollsters and do something different in the booth. The ad wars will also heat up.

Biden/Palen Debate

The Vice Presidential debate will also draw high viewing numbers. Palen has been cramming for this event. Will it take away her authenticity? Will Biden attack? Will Gwen Ifill be able to control the setting? Get your popcorn ready for this one.

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A Miracle Break

2008-09-24T09:03:00.010-04:00

I've been fortunate to host several pre-screenings of films of note over the past four years. Some I hear about randomly, I may get phone call from a friend, or a studio rep may suggest a film. While in Chicago this summer at the UNITY conference I attended the pre-screening for two films, Miracle at St. Anna
and the Secret Life of Bees (not the entire film just two 10 minute clips).

I was running a little late so I only got to hear the presentation on "Miracle" which featured the author of the book of the same tittle, James McBride. The film directed by Spike Lee tells the tale of the all black U.S. Army 92nd Infantry commonly known as the "Buffalo Soldiers."

While there have been a number of World War II stories put on film few have ever shown Black soldiers participating in action. Spike who has not shied away from controversy took Director Clint Eastwood to task for his movies "Letters from Iwo Jima." Lee asked why there were no Black soldiers included in the story? Eastwood dismissed the charged and snapped at Lee "he should shut his face."
Last night I and several of my media colleagues caught "Miracle at St. Anna." In the words of Film Director, Kim Moir, "a middle finger in your face Clinton Eastwood." The two hour film continues the evolution of Spike Lee as a film-maker. He has come a long way from the days of the low budget debut of "She's Gotta Have It." While most people talk about "Do the Right Thing" my favorites are "Mo' Better Blues," "Bamboozled," and "Inside Man."

This film is five films in one, woven together through the backdrop of what it was like to be a member of an all Black regiment. I know a little something about this group. I've written about the origins of the Buffalo Soldiers, it's national monument, and it happens that my grandfather was a member of the regiment. Last year, my colleagues(MPT) and I were nominated for an EMMY for "The War: Struggle & Sacrifice." One of the interviews I helped line-up was with a family friend, Otis Lee Sr. Mr. Lee was a loyal member the of the Baltimore Disabled Veterans Association Chapter. He seem to always carry himself as the Staff Sargent (his title in the service).

He told my colleague Lou Davis about his time in the service. Including the building of the Alaska Highway (that's a story which should be on the big screen); and joining General George Patton at the Battle of Bulge. "I stepped over so many dead soldiers," he says. "Great, big, young, healthy men, all dressed up, (he grabs his shoulders), dead!" It was powerful. I don't think anyone heard World War II fighting described by a black man quite like this.

As I'm watching this Spike Lee film I believe he captures this aspect of war from a Black perspective. You know Hollywood glamorizes war. Solider gets shot, falls to the ground, no blood and definitely not the face of the deceased. Not in this movie we see the horrors of war...fear, bravery, courage, and ineptitude by white superiors.

The dialogue of English, German, Italian, and Spanish is interwoven in such a way you are not put off by the subtitles. There are a number of people to root for in the movie. A German solider who tells the young star to run, the resistance leader who comes to the conclusion his Italian friend help massacre a village, Stamps, the patrol leader, who takes his comrades behind enemy lines, and Track, the oversize G.I., who believes the head of a statue can save him and his co-horts.

The German propaganda machine is not widely known in this country, but for those in theatre it "came raining down from heaven." Black World War II GI's I've spoken to tell of the pamphlets and one sheets dropped by aircraft over the Black regiments. The film aptly depicts the "Tokyo Rose" counterpart "German Rose." A sultry sounding voice used to dissuade Black GI's from backing the U.S.

There is also a story behind the making of this film. Lee has always had financing problems for his films. Studios are always short changing him or just saying no. No, is what the filmmaker heard when he began shopping this film. McBride told me "Spike had to go to Italy to find financing."

The author said he was invited to the set in Italy for filming. "One of the many challenges the crew faced was the changing weather patterns on the mountain in Italy. Spike was told to consider using a sound stage, but held firm."

Some Spike Lee film tricks are in the movie, others are left out. Expect a sexy woman sashaying before the camera (remember Nola Darling and Rosey Perez). You'll be happy to hear Lee's signature shot is not in the movie.

This film was a nice break from the grind of covering politics. There is a political connection which may not be obvious. It is the veterans of World War II who saw the hypocrisy of fighting Nazism and fascism in Europe, while facing racism at home. They saw the promise of a better society when they moved from being cooks and orderlies to fighting soldiers. They took this bravery and created the civil rights movement laying the foundation for Black politics in America. Veterans better than any other group know what it's like to defend this country and giving the ultimate sacrifice.

Last Thoughts on Miracle at St. Anna

I'm very concern that recent war movies (mostly about Iraq) have bombed at the box office. This isn't a Tyler Perry movie either. For those of you who've asked for films with substance, this has it. Critics have a tendency to pan movies like this because they don't get the significance of telling a story we've never seen before (remember Boomerang - "Black people don't run major corporations. It's unrealistic.") Let me suggest you invite not just young people to this movie, but also veterans from any service branches. It needs to be seen.

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Are You Middle Class?

2008-09-17T17:18:00.013-04:00

Washington, DC -“There are three levels of middle class, lower, middle, and upper middle class,” according to Dr. Michael Eric Dyson, noted essayist and Georgetown University Professor. Dyson was one of four panelist convened by the Black MBA Association to tackle the question of “The Disappearing Middle Class.”

Dr. Dyson further refines his description by assessing the group via income levels. “Anyone making between 20k-30 k is lower, 50k-75k is the middle, 75k and above is upper middle class.”

Michael Fletcher of the Washington Post suggests being middle class is a “state of mind.” “It's a shared set of values, including family, money, and education,” are what defines you as a member of this often targeted group.

This give and take is indicative of discussions happening around dinner tables, barbershops, beauty salons, or anywhere you get a group of people discussing the proposition, “Are You Middle Class?”

The 30th Annual Black MBA conference provides a unique the setting for asking this question. “Turning Point,” a polling firm, is here to measure audience responses. Remember this group is not indicative of America (95 percent black audience with post-baccalaureate degrees). The group however is one of many bellwethers pollster can use to determine the effectiveness of their messages. The way it works is each person is given a clicker to record their responses.

The host for the event is Roland S. Martin, noted author and CNN Contributor. Being provocative he delves right in. “Well who is the Black Middle Class?”
Lawrence Otis Graham, noted author on Black cultural issues in the workplace, takes up the challenge.“You are no longer authentically black if you, move into areas where there is limited number of Black folks, vacation in Martha Vineyards, join Jack and Jill, or attend Spellman(or any other HBCU’s ).” Some might call this being “buppy” or “not keep-in-it real.” Graham who’s been asked to opine with the other panelists has just pinned an article for Uptown called “Don’t Hate us for Being Rich and Educated, and Well Connected.”

In the 10th annual Black Investor Survey conducted by Ariel Mutual Funds and The Charles Schwab Corporation they provide a window on the heretofore under surveyed population. The survey showed “African-Americans are moving backward not forward.” According to Lisa Tompkins from Schwab, the only female panelist says Black goals around what to do with money is split according a recent Schwab survey. “The choices put pressures on where the money is split up.”

In the room Martin poses this question and asks the audience to respond. “Is the black middle class disappearing?” The survey says, 64% say it is disappearing; 36% say its not.

So why are we disappearing. Fletcher says, the middle class is growing but is under more strains than past generations. “It’s more expensive to be in the middle class.” Graham agrees. He says “the foundations of the Black middle are disappearing. The Black middle class has integrated into the white middle class leaving behind the institutions” which help build it.

Consider this Black life insurance companies, funeral homes, and other black entrepreneurs who were the backbone of this community are no longer its foundation because the flight from urban centers.

“If the business is black-owned, does it matter?” is the question. Survey says 61% say, yes; 39% say no. Martin questions the answer. I want to ask…“How many of you use a Black owned cleaners? (People raise their hands) A majority of the crowd does not. “Take down that slide,” says Martin(as the crowd chuckles at the conclusion).

Seriously, it’s this group (Black MBA’s) which knows how keenly it is to develop markets for products. They are pro-black and entering businesses which rely less on Blacks for their customer base.

Class Gulf

I’ve said often it is this gulf which is driving a wedge in Black solidarity. Education, the greater equalizer, does not play well with those new entrepreneurs who’ve taken marketing to new levels. Add in the mix athletic stars, music stars and self starters who’ve made money without a college degree. They perceive themselves as “authentically Black” not “selling out” to meet the whims of white folks.

Dyson points to NBA star Allen Iverson. Dyson tells the audience Iverson can ask a simple question, “Where was the black middle class when he and his momma were getting kicked out their homes?” There is a mentality among popular rappers from 50 Cents, Jay-Z and Kanye West who prescribe to the theory “I got mine, go get yours!” The essayist comes to this simple, “they could give-a -….about the middle class.”

Analysis

The discussion of the Black Middle Class is a much needed one. Defining it is difficult. One thing I do know, whatever level you fit in, you aren’t complacent. You are constantly struggling to get to the next level.

This is the group that is funding current and future political campaigns. They have the wherewithal to influence others and create the right kind of buzz for a candidate who wants to challenge the status quo. These are the movers and shakers and they are not alone. I describe these and other Black professional groups as the king/queen makers of the future.

Rightly or wrongly "their time as has come." They are smart, savvy, creative, and play the game at the highest level. Don’t even think about crossing them because they know their history. Don’t be confused by the custom suit, the Jim Choo shoes, the Louis Vuitton luggage, or the Benz in the driveway with being beyond Black. Nope, this group moved to the suburbs because they could.

I’m very concerned of what the middle class will mean in the future and will those who’ve made it create a critical mass for the future.

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The MAC Attack

2008-09-05T15:31:00.003-04:00

There weren’t 85,000, only 20,000 in the crowd; the visual was that of a town hall stage rather than a pillar of power; and the speech was understated versus over the top; I could go on and on, but it wouldn’t leave much space for the message ushered in last night by Senator John McCain who accepted the Republican nomination.

These speeches are almost always noted for their loftiness. I found the “what I’m going to do” missing from this acceptance. It also is used to create a vision, i.e. “The shinning city on the hill: “A place called Hope;” and many other memorable moments come to mind. I believe all we got was, “I'm going to fight for my cause every day as your president.”
Normally, eight years of being in charge (the Republicans) you think you’d be crowing about achievements. Having a president with low poll numbers and a party on the verge of losing a number of key house and senate races calls for a speech re-write. “I've been called a maverick” McCain is a maverick. He has bucked the traditional base and gone against the current president. He has even committed the “cardinal sin” of Ronald Regan Republicans, “Thou shall not speak ill of another Republican.” This is different.

Beating up on the GOP

It is strange when the nominee from the Republican Party took his own party to task. This is a new paradigm. Running as the outsider is a tried and true Republican theme, but McCain is one of the longest serving members of the Senate? Robert Erhlich the former governor of Maryland told me during a talk show in Washington, DC, “I love it.” Is everybody drinking the “Jim Jones Kool-Aid?”

“We were elected to change Washington, and we let Washington change us. We lost the trust of the American people when some Republicans gave in to the temptations of corruption. We lost their trust when rather than reform government, both parties made it bigger. We lost their trust when instead of freeing ourselves from a dangerous dependence on foreign oil, both parties and Sen. Obama passed another corporate welfare bill for oil companies. We lost their trust, when we valued our power over our principles.”

This is the same party of President Bush and running against the establishment is supposed to help you win?

Secret Weapon

That “Pit Bull with lipstick,” Governor Sarah Palin, was featured prominently in the acceptance speech. She garners one of the loudest applauses when the Republican nominee delivered this memorable line, “I can't wait until I introduce her to Washington. And let me offer an advance warning to the old, big spending, do nothing, me first, country second Washington crowd: Change is coming.”This change mantra is really working. No one wants the status quo. Keeping things as they are would be dreadful all the way around. This thing called change has fired up crowds on both sides but whose change will work on the electorate.

According to McCain it’s all about lowering taxes to boost the economy. Note to McCain camp the Labor Department announced on Friday the jobless rate hit 6.1 percent (the highest rate in 5 years). To make matters worst the Boeing, one of the last major manufacturing companies with a large work force, is being struck.

The results coming out of Iraq maybe the one silver lining for the McCain campaign. The U.S, military turned Anbar Province over to the Iraq military this week. Remember McCain is about the surge and his fate is literally tied to it success.

Compliments

I didn’t see this coming, but McCain is cognizant of current events and doesn’t live in a vacuum (unlike come of his counterparts). He praised the Obama campaign, “You have my respect and admiration. Despite our differences, much more unites us than divides us. We are fellow Americans, an association that means more to me than any other. We're dedicated to the proposition that all people are created equal and endowed by our Creator with inalienable rights. No country ever had a greater cause than that. And I wouldn't be an American worthy of the name if I didn't honor Sen. Obama and his supporters for their achievement.”

Analysis

The base of the Republican Party is still uneasy about McCain. He just rubs these guys the wrong way. The social conservatives are likely to rally, but to what extent. The “marriages of political convenience” worked the last go round.” In the preverbal words of the political sage, Karl Rove, “where else are they gonna go.” The toss--up states (Ohio, Florida, Michigan, and Pennsylvania) could go for either candidate. Activities on the ground will surely be crucial.

The Sarah Palin wildcard is interesting. She is a “fire-in-the-belly” kind of politician. I don’t know if she is ready for the scrutiny she will get. I know not to expect her in any urban setting (suburbs, small towns, and religious outings only). Gwen Ifill’s Q and A for the Vice Presidential debate should be interesting (get ready for the GOP to smear her as well in the lead up to the debate).

The debates will tell only part of the story. Get ready for a bombshell on either side. The item will likely come an internet posting or youtube posting. The commercials I understand they are preparing will sling mud.

Lastly, I get the unusual feeling of the Clinton/Dole race; nah….this is going to be better. Roland Martin, of CNN and WVON, in one of his recent posting on the NABJ listserve tied it all up in a bow, ”Elections ARE decided on personality and not issues. Multiple pollsters have laid this out.”

Much love,

C3

Filling In the Blanks

2008-09-04T03:49:00.006-04:00

The blank page of Governor Sarah Palin as Republican nominee for Vice President was filled in last night. Governor Palin whose resume many questioned showed she is no shrinking violet. Her speech was defiant, clear, resonant, and a challenge to small town America that urban centers have discounted in recent years. The visual of this mom turn politician was compelling. Like speakers before her, she continued the narrative of Republican Presidential Nominee John McCain, “John McCain would rather lose an election than lose a war.”

There were several themes running through her address. It includes executive experience, a disdain for Washington and media, and making the case for John McCain over the democratic ticket.

In at dig at Democrat Presidential Nominee Barack Obama, she chided his loft speeches and his chameleon like rhetoric to play to crowds. “I guess a small-town mayor is sort of like a "community organizer," except that you have actual responsibilities. I might add that in small towns, we don't quite know what to make of a candidate who lavishes praise on working people when they are listening, and then talks about how bitterly they cling to their religion and guns when those people aren't listening, We tend to prefer candidates who don't talk about us one way in Scranton and another way in San Francisco.”Republicans have often felt those with power (Washington insiders and media) are more about the being cozy and gotcha. “But here's a little news flash for all those reporters and commentators: I'm not going to Washington to seek their good opinion - I'm going to Washington to serve the people of this country. Americans expect us to go to Washington for the right reasons, and not just to mingle with the right people.”

Kicking and Punching

Palin describes herself as a hockey mom or “a pit-bull with lipstick,” and oh she was. The fighting woman resonated. She targeted the battleground states of Ohio, Pennsylvania, Minnesota, and Michigan. These are the states which Senator Hillary Clinton won. These four states have begrudgingly accepted women in power, but see candidates of color with a “jaundice eye.”

Associating rural and suburban areas of these states with urban centers is an anathema to their “way of life.” It’s a fight where they are hoping to keep cities from encroaching and bring all its ills to their sanitize hamlets.

It’s partly racial, but it’s mainly cultural. It’s the Friday night football games; it’s the American Legion Baseball league; and the Fourth of July Parade which makes for a continuum and continuity these areas want to keep intact.

Veterans and McCain

McCain’s military service is truly heroic and no one has his story. The telling and retelling of his captivity is salient. The numbers of veterans groups endorsing his campaign is the “sure bet.” It’s especially a group to court in times of war. Palin delivered a personal touch by noting the story of a fellow captive Tom Moe of Lancaster, Ohio. McCain would have to walk past his cell at the "Hanoi Hilton."

“When McCain shuffled back from torturous interrogations, he would turn toward Moe's door and flash a grin and thumbs up" - as if to say, "We're going to pull through this." My fellow Americans that is the kind of man America needs to see us through these next four years.”

The Speech

Matt Scully who wrote the speech was able to hit the right notes, but it is the speaker who can take lofty rhetoric and make it you own. A speech like this has to have memorable lines. This one will be remembered for several.

“Listening to him (Obama) speak, it's easy to forget this is a man who has authored two memoirs, but not a single major law or reform - not even in the state senate.”
“Harry Reid, the Majority Leader of the current do-nothing Senate, not long ago summed up his feelings about our nominee. He said, quote, "I can't stand John McCain." Ladies and gentlemen, perhaps no accolade we hear this week is better proof that we've chosen the right man.”Analysis

A written speech can be coached, massaged, and corrected prior to performance. Can she handle the q and a which will follow? You can’t stay in the bubble. The Republicans will make a concerted effort to use her in rural and suburban areas. Somewhere in the process she’ll have to answer some uncomfortable questions about her personal life and issues unfamiliar to her. These will test her “steeliness.” A non answer will be even more telling.

The Alaska Governor has pulled together the desperate parts of the Republican Party; which heretofore have not been united. Is it enough to bring John McCain to the Presidency? Tomorrow we will here from the man himself.

Sidebar
Back in the day you would hear a neighbor yell, "colored people on television." This was the day to showcase a number of minorities including GOPAC Chair Michael Steele. The head of the Texas Railroad Commission, Michael Williams was also tapped to speak. Anybody else left in the GOP?

C3

The Curious and Missing

2008-09-03T16:04:00.012-04:00

In the last two nights of observing the Republican Convention from St. Paul's Excel Center the visuals are a stark contrast to the DNC. Is it me or is their an absence of color and youth?

The cameramen must be falling all over themselves to find the handful of Black Republicans. In past years at the GOP party, the total number of Blacks has hovered at 10 percent. I'm guessing it hasn't gone up but may be going down. The Joint Center for Political and Economic studies bears this out. "Of the Republicans' 2,380 delegates, only 36 are black, a 78 percent drop from the GOP's 2004 convention and the lowest number in 40 years."

The reason for this drop can be attributed to several prominent Black Republicans vocally talking about voting for Barrack Obama. Some in this group have done so out of racial solidarity, and others have "heard the message of change."

For the uninitiated those famous Black Republicans you will see include Ken Blackwell of Ohio, Lynn Swann of Pennsylvania, Michael Steele of Maryland, Joe Rogers of Colorado, and Ward Connerly of California. These are the old stalwarts of the GOP who have put in time doing party building.

Get ready however for the new breed, Hip-Hop Republicans. According to their website, "They describe A “Hip Hop Republican” as not an individual that has lost her or his identity as a result of self-hatred, lack of exposure, or economic success. Because of the current political climate and common understanding, Hip Hop Republicans (and Black Republicans in total) often stand alone."

I witnessed their emergence first hand in Maryland with Lieutenant Governor Steele as their champion. He unexpectedly brought in Hip Hop mogul Russell Simmons in for a fundraiser. During his remarks the Lieutenant Governor told the gathering (numbering 300) "it's not enough to get a seat at the lunch counter but we should strive to own the lunch counter."

This movement is about creating legacy wealth. It's not necessarily a shared idea in the Democratic Party which pushes shared sacrifice and collective cooperation. It is a tantalizing proposition for this generation who believe in Black entrepreneurship. The downside is being ridiculed for the social and moral causes which they neither understand or are prepared to grasp.

It's this group the GOP needs to understand if they hope to sustain itself in the future. It can teach it about guerrilla marketing; nuancing without being rigid; and believing in a society where color is less of issue than ideas.

The NBRA

The National Black Republican Association founded in 2005 is the most visible of the GOP franchises. According to President Frances Rice, "the group is dedicated to promoting the traditional values of the black community which are in concert with the core Republican Party philosophy of strong families, personal responsibility, quality education and equal opportunities for all."

The NBRA is infamous for its ads (Radio, Print, and Online) suggesting Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was a Republican. Several prominent Civil Rights Leaders have discounted this advertisement. The King family went as far as to issue a cease and decease order for the radio spots which used King's voice. It has not stopped the billboard and online activities. As I said in an earlier post some were strategically placed in Denver.

There appears to be a coarseness in this groups attempts to dissuade African-Americans from siding with the Democrat Party, which is their right. They are also effective in bring a number of Black conservative commentators to the attention of media.

I note, the current cause is to use religious undertones in dissuading Blacks from backing and staying loyal to the Democratic Party over the issue of abortion, gay marriage and traditional Black family values. This line of advocacy paid dividends in 2004 especially in Ohio and Florida where several exit poll workers discovered these issues persuade a large number of church going "Black Folk" to vote Republican.

My analysis this time shows there will be fewer of those who will succumb to this logic. It is fear which brings this group its numbers. I'm reminded starting a movement is not done by creating a website, but rather by mobilizing real people to stand by you on the ideas you put forward. It may not be large but you literally must begin proselytizing in order to make it work. Lastly, the age group which links itself with the group is greying (just like many other groups). Learn a thing a or two from the HIP HOP Caucus. There message is positive rather than a negative.

Palin Speech

You know I'm going to watch this tonight. Are you like me, "scratching your head wondering what were they thinking? FYI, they have brought the boyfriend in for show. This is tacky. Does anyone know if he has a voter registration card? Correct me, but didn't they say they wanted this to remain private? Bob Parks,writing for the Booker Rising Blog says, "If Sarah Palin has learned anything from her less-than-a-week in the international spotlight, she's learned what it's like to be black."

Welcome to my world.

C3

Competing Images

2008-09-01T21:33:00.010-04:00

I was planning to go to Minneapolis/St. Paul on Tuesday, but have changed plans in lieu of the Republican National Convention decision to scale back activities and Hurricane Gustav. These competing images will be easier to observe from my base of operation in Baltimore then in St. Paul. I’ll continue to blog and give my thoughts. So let’s get at it.

The selection of Alaska Governor Sarah Palin has dominated the news cycle since her announcement on Friday. Here’s what we do know at this time.

1. She’s the Alaska Governor. (FYI, Governors have armies…the National Guard)
2. Palin is the first woman ever selected by the GOP to be nominated for Vice President. She’s an every woman kind of candidate. Hockey mom, devoted to her children(a total of five, one has downs syndrome), active in the PTA, and more comfortable doing outdoors sport than most women.
3. Her age 44(legal to be President) is a plus for those who’ve seen McCain’s age as an impediment.
4. Not afraid to take on the status quo. She bucked the Alaska GOP by taking on corruption.
5. General positive views from the constituents at the core of Republican brand…social conservatives, fiscal conservatives, and young Republican women.
6. She has a son who is going to Iraq.

On the flip side, she’s got some major league challenges that are advancing faster than the campaign can react to.

1. Questions about her experience. This line of attack I believe is invalid. Neither President, nor Vice President has the pre-requisite experience to deal with the issues confronting a nation. I go back to Pearl Harbor, who knew; crash of the stock market, who knew; the resignation of Richard Nixon, who knew; and 9-11, who knew. All you can hope for is a cadre of smart and competent people to give the advice you need to make decisions. Conversely, the GOP’s line attack of experience seems to have been thrown out with the selection. Some will see this as hypocrisy.
2. Pandering to women. The Republicans seized on the disaffection of Clinton voters and obviously selected her in an attempt to grab this group of Democrats. In her initial speech she talked Clinton and her “18 million shattered pieces glass.” Female solidarity is potent, but many of her stances are the antithesis of a Clinton voter. Governor Palin is anti-abortion, she believes in drilling the Anwar, and has embraced the so call “ownership society.”
3. The latest revaluation, her 17 year old daughter is pregnant and unmarried. Talk about family values, abstinence only, and a perfect family; throw that crap out the window. This woman is going to have answer some uneasy questions (remember John Edwards). Hunkering in your room is going make it worst. Do the Governor David Patterson thing (remember he went before the media and laid out he had a an affair(s) and used cocaine while a Lt. Governor), call a press conference tell all that you know and say this will be last time you will talk about this subject.
4. OBTW, Palin is being sued for the firing of the Alaskan Public Safety official. According to the Alaska Daily News (http://www.adn.com/palin/story/512842.html) she’s also hired an attorney to litigate. What else is on the horizon?

Democratic Senator Barack Obama reacting to the Palin’s daughter said, “People’s families are off limits so let’s back-off.”

Convention Changes

It’s one reason why I’m not going St. Paul. Hurricane Gustav has played havoc with what the GOP wants to do. President George Bush and Vice President Dick Chaney have opted to stay away from convention. Not a bad idea. The President was scheduled to speak on Monday night. Instead Laura Bush and Cindy McCain made an appeal to convention goers and the public to help those who in the Gulf region.

The first lady told the crowd, “We’re all Americans with shared American values.” The governors in the gulf region are all Republicans. Three of the four governors (Louisiana Governor Bobby Jindal was too busy) produced tapes for the convention.

During the tapes CNN dumps coverage switches to Hurricane coverage. MSNBC and Fox News stay with speeches use split screens to cover weather coverage.

Cindy McCain announces the list of websites to donate money. In lieu of several parties in St. Paul, money and care packages are being sent to those affected.

By 9 pm EST things are calm and it appears Louisiana has dodged a bullet (the only problem seems to be near Plaquemines Parish where a earthen levee was prepared to give way…to resolve the issue they open the locks to marsh area).

Governor Bobby Jindal is a hero in this crisis. He appears "wonkish," but is a striking contrast to the previous governor; who didn’t appear to know what was going on.

The president must be relieved and he learned the lessons of Katrina. My heart still goes out to the seven people who died(so far). Five of them were killed in car crashes trying to flee the storm.

Analysis

The visual of the GOP partying and hurricane is not what you want to see. McCain was right; the convention had to change(and will continue to change). It couldn’t be canceled because of the money.

The bad news is Hurricane Ike is off the coast of Florida. It looks like it could hit the Georgia or North Florida coast by Thursday. My late grandfather would call this “buzzard luck.” John McCain can’t catch a break.

The weather may be the least of his worries. Can Vice President Nominee, Governor Sarah Palin, weather the scrutiny and vetting of a national political figure? It won’t be just the legitimate press poking in her background. It’s going to be “fast and furious.” Could she be only the second Vice Presidential candidate to step down? We'll see.

C3

Looking Through the Rearview Mirror

2008-08-29T12:45:00.006-04:00

(Denver)-My last day in Denver consisted of a pair of radio appearances. I started the morning by appearing on NPR's, Tell Me More with Michel Martin. I was one of the featured guest with my boy Jimi Izrael. He hosts the Barber Shop Segment.
(You can check it out at this link)Http://www.npr.org/templates/player/mediaPlayer.html?action=1&t=1&islist=false&id=94096378&m=94096367)

I followed that up with an appearence on Washington, DC Radio Station WAMU. On Friday the Kojo Nnamdi Show is transformed into the Politics Hour. It was taped live at radio station KUVO-Denver. The station is located in the historic Five Points nieghborhood. Making my way back to downtown I stopped to collect a few souvenirs. I learned this morning that Senator John McCain has selected a running mate, Governor Sarah Palin of Alaska. The conversation is changed, but few who are heading to the airport are paying attention. What did we see? What did we witness? What should we make of last couple of days?

The Republicans will be trying to write their own narrative of America in Minneapolis/St. Paul. GOP members will be competing with Hurrican Gustav, a category three hurricane bearing down on the New Orleans. There are mandatory evacuations for the Cresent City and surrounding area. It’s expected to make landfall on Monday the night President George Bush will address the convention.

Can you imagine the visual of President Bush talking about his accomplishments over the last eight years with a split screen of New Orleans flooding? It’s not a good look.

Here are some of my memories of Denver.

The 16th Street Mall – The free bus service, the shops, and the mall.

The Convention Center (not be confused with the Pepsi Center) – I spent much of my time in the media lounge but it had workshops, book signings and activities.

Invesco Field AKA Mile High Stadium - The home of the Denver Bronco's transformed into the "Obama Catherdral." Visually stunning and forever tied with Obama.

The Denver Community – When I arrived on Saturday there was a welcoming committee who yelled and cheered. “For me!!!,” no for everyone who came through the doors. People were friendly and gave me the necessary information to do my job.
My NABJ Brothers and Sisters - A lot of people have questioned our ability to cover this campaign while giving short shrift to the fact their are too few people of color on the campaign trail. We will continue to do exemplary work despite our changing work conditions. Much love to our President Barbara Ciara and NABJ Program/Development Director Ryan Williams.

Colfax Street – I walked nearly five miles of this thoroughfare looking for things I needed and found the eclectic side of Denver. There were bars, adult bookstores, ethnic eateries, musical venues, and more tattoo and piercing parlors then you could imagine.
I rode the RTD bus up and down this street as well. It’s a microcosm of the future of Denver. Indians, Chinese, Vietnamese, Mexicans, Native Americans, Eastern Europeans and those with little means are percolating in this city.
Lastly, I thought it strange the National Black Republicans posted a billboard saying Dr. Martin Luther King was a Republican (go in close to the billboard).

The Pepsi Center – My home for the week. I set up shop in the filing center under the basket goal where the Denver Nuggets practice. It was crude but cushy, and in close proximity to the big flat screen.

Radio Row- Where else could you be on in Chicago, Los Angeles, Atlanta, Washington, and across the nation in matter of two steps. Created in 2004 it’s has become a mainstay at these political party conventions.

Bloggers – Four years ago when I started this Blog there were only a few people or color “doing the damn thing.” Now the campaigns are credentialing Bloggers and giving them their own space. Several of my colleagues are must reads (Denise Clay, Munroe Anderson, Dell Walters and so many others). FYI, Bloggers need wifi…make sure there’s enough bandwidth and more tables.

Things I Heard

“Michelle Obama will make dark sisters the new flavor of the month.”

“The new chic is a suit and shirt with no tie.”

“Being green is cool.”

“Dude, can you get me a pass.”

“I’m from (insert city, state, country, or universe)”

“What do you think of Denver?”

“Let’s get a drink.”

“Please have your I-D ready for inspection.”

“I’m trying to find (insert hotel, restaurant, party, reception, or person).” The follow up is “Can you get me in?”

“Obama (a person shouting t-shirts, buttons, poster etc….)”

These two are inter-changeable
“Excuse me, can I take a picture with you.” Or “Excuse me, can you take a picture for me with and (insert celebrity name).

Special Thanks

I was very fortunate to be in Denver. I knew I had to be there. Three weeks ago I had no idea where I was going to stay. I appealed to my fraternity Brother Allen Thompson to help. He would suggest I stay with him because he was so close to downtown. Thank you A.T. aka Slick.

Britt Tennell of Oakland also crashed with us at A.T.’s pad. With IPHONE in hand he volunteered for the DNC at the Sheraton Hotel. It was the hotel for the New York and California delegations. Britt kept reminding us,“you know they can work a Brother.” He tracked down everything from cleaners, directions, parties, receptions, and people. Remember he did this without getting paid, but got the experience of a lifetime. He’s on my people to watch list.

Mr. Tom Thomas, a class act.

Much love to Denver for hosting an awesome event.
The graphic of Obama comes courtesy of Samuel Fleming Lewis www.samuelfleminglewis.com

C3

A Journey of a Life Time

2008-08-28T23:00:00.004-04:00

(Denver) – There was a rumble which shook Invesco Field at Mile High Stadium and forever changed American politics as we know it.

The stomping and chanting was for Senator Barack Obama who accepted the Democratic Party nomination for President. Senator Obama strode to the stage as a conquering hero. It was a journey that began on a cold day in Springfield, Illinois and ended in a whirlwind of confetti and adulation.

“We meet at one those defining moments – a moment when our nation is at war, our economy is in turmoil and the American promise has been threatened once more.”

Removed is the term presumptive, Obama is the nominee. It is a curious route for this candidate. The journey to Denver had its bumps, curves, twist, and challenges. Those are behind him. He had to make the case for leading the most powerful nation on the planet.

Four years ago in Boston I was an eyewitness to this emerging political star. I’d interviewed him the day before the speech which some say ushered in a paradigm for Democratic politics. I came away with an uncanny sense he had something few political leaders have, “the common touch.” I would again interview him the day after the speech and it re-enforced my opinion.

I knew I wouldn’t have this type of meeting in Denver, but I want to see what had changed from Boston to Denver. The visuals were off the charts. Expectations in this environment can be daunting.

Symbolism and the Day

Tonight’s keynote address by Obama has a number of incidental and numerical references. It occurs forty-five years removed from the Martin Luther King, Jr. speech. Moses wanders in the dessert for forty years. 40 days and 40 nights was length of time Noah and the Ark find dry land to restart civilization. Muhammad was 40 years old when he received the revelation delivered by an angel. Jesus fasted for 40 days and 40 nights.

The date 08-28-08 for numerologist is a sign (some say the three 8’s are part of a messianic revelation). Obama would later tell the audience at Invesco “that eight is enough" (the number of years Republicans have held the White House).
But enough with the symbolism references.

A Tribute to MLK and “The Dream”

My day starts at 11 am with a visit to the New Hope Baptist Church for a celebration of the 45th Anniversary of the "I Have Dream Speech." I'm surprise to see Maryland Congressman John Sarbanes. The choir warms up the crowd with stirring renditions of He Brought This Far by Faith, Over My Head and a rendition of a song with a call and response chant of 'Yes We Can'."

Later the crowd sings all three versus of the “Negro National Anthem,” Life Every Voice and Sing. Normally, most people sing the first and third versus of the song, but not today. People in the pulpit appear to be on an emotional high.

I was privilege to hear from two men whose intersection with King came at seminal moments. Congressman John Lewis of Georgia was at the MLK speech 40 years ago. On that day he was the tenth speaker on the program at the Washington Monument. In his southern drawl he told the crowd that King’s staff had actually struck the line “I Have a Dream.” “King reinserted the line after hearing Mahalia Jackson sing.” The founder of the student non-violent coordinating committee would leave for Invesco because he was scheduled to address the crowd.

Lewis would be followed by Congressman James Clyburn of South Carolina. He felt many people missed the line in the speech about the “fierce urgency of now.” King in his time had been told to wait your turn, you’re not experienced, just wait. It sounds strikingly similar to Barack Obama.”

There were many more noted speakers but the clock said one o’clock. I “dipped” out of the service to get to the stadium. There have been so many cautions about today; Get to the stadium early; be prepared for long security lines; dress for warm weather; and expect traffic delays. (I've already heard that Oprah Winfrey shutdown downtown with her motorcade. No problem

Themes

The Republicans are pushing several lines effectively against Obama. He’s an elitist/rock star, he’s not patriotic, can he be commander in chief on day one, and setting a timetable for withdrawal from Iraq will mean surrender.

Methodical he answered each of these issues and delved into areas heretofore Democrats have shied away from abortion, gun control, and personal responsibility.

I keep coming back to the visual. He looked presidential, he spoke as a president, he exuded the confidence of a president, but will the rest of America buy it.

70 year old, Tom Thomas of Pasadena, California was typical of those in attendance. “I never thought I would see a Black nominated for the president in my life time. The event exceeded my expectations. It’s nothing short of spiritual experience.”

Final Thoughts

It’s been an amazing week. Some things I expected others came out of the blue. There was definitely an unusual vibe in Denver. I’ll tell you, I was psyched about coming to Denver, but I’m always psyched about politics. Minneapolis will be different, but no less interesting.

C3

Oh No He Didn't

2008-08-28T01:11:00.006-04:00

I began working on this blog around 5 pm Denver time after learning of the acclamation vote to make Senator Barack Obama the Democratic Presidential nominee. Here’s how it started.

There are several seminal moments in American history and today’s acclamation vote of Senator Barack Obama to become the Democratic Party nominee for president is one of them.

If this were in my early journalism days I would have pulled the paper from the typewriter and tossed it in the trash can. I can’t do that in cyberspace instead I’ll just say, Damn!!!!!

I’ve been in Denver for five days. There are early mornings and late nights. I’m somewhat drained as we come to the last day at the Pepsi Arena, before the Mile High event. I felt this was one of the days where the speakers were okay (President Bill Clinton and Senator Joe Biden). I’d spill in a couple of quotes and get a few more reactions to this historic day (In fact the original title for this blog was Historic).

It’s been very tough to get on the floor when the main speakers start (you only get 20 minutes). I had to work on the guy with the passes to get into the arena for Clinton. Biden, the Vice Presidential nominee, wasn't Obama, so I decided it wasn't necessay to see him live from the floor. I had a pre copy of his speech and it was okay. Fellow Blogger, Stump Connolly of “The Week Behind” kept pointing out Biden was going off script. When the Delaware Senator wrapped up speaking I began tying at my computer. Biden’s wife appeared on screen and said she had a special surprise. This normally means kids, long lost relative, etc…

I turn and looked its Obama. The crowd is going wild so I grab my camera and start video taping the screen in the filing room. Reporters are crowded around monitors.

“Hello Denver!” The crowd can’t contain itself . Obama and Biden are on stage together? Isn’t this supposed to happen tomorrow? Remember up to this point the Illinois Senator has been making his way to the convention.

My good friend S.A. Miller of the Washington Times who’s been following the candidate nationwide had just arrived. Miller popped his head into press filing room as Biden was speaking. According to Miller, Obama had come in around 4:30 pm and apparently was with his wife, kids, and close relatives when the acclamation vote was taken. I'm guessing it was very emotional in the suite at the Denver Westin where the Obama’s are holed up.

Damn Again

Who is scripting this event? The selection of the first African-American Democrat nominee for president is heavy. I’m more keenly aware of its broader implications after reading Challenging Slavery in the Chesapeake: Black and White Resistance to Human Bondage, 1660-1865 by T. Stephen Whitman and “Here Lies Jim Crow” by Fraser Smith a Baltimore writer.

The possibility of Black President...“Not in my life time,” said Baltimore Delegate Curt Anderson. After answering a few more questions he pondered the societal changes if it all comes to fruition.

How many of you were told in elementary school, “You could grow-up to be President?” Congressman James Clyburn of South Carolina, a former school teacher said, "I'd told numerous students this, but he personally didn’t believe it." The South Carolina Democrat said, ”When teachers say this in the future there will be a realism associated with it outcome.” My cousin, George Smith, Jr., a product of a Boston Prep school and a graduate of Tufts University, came to this simple conclusion. “His Ivy League education makes him palatable to people.”

But it’s more than that, I said this four years ago in Presidential Perspective I (http://blkpol.blogspot.com/2004_09_01_archive.html). As a paper boy delivering the Afro-American newspapers in Baltimore, I remember the exhilaration, anxiety, and fear Black folk have around doing the impossible.

But you got be in the game, just to play.

Tomorrow: Invesco, A Mile High Experience.

C3

Guilt by Association

2008-08-26T14:36:00.008-04:00

(Denver) - Michelle Obama is Barack Obama’s voice unleashed. The grace and poise she delivered in her keynote address capped a night where Massachusetts Senator Ted Kennedy was honored for his year of service.

Documentary Filmmaker Ken Burns created a moving video tribute to Senator Kennedy.
It included interviews from Congressman John Lewis, fellow Senator John Kerry and Carolina Kennedy (who introduced him to the audience as Uncle Teddy).

Kennedy told the crowd “I wouldn’t have missed this for the world” The Massachusetts Senator hasn’t made many public appearances since his surgery for a brain tumor. Although he is still recovering from surgery his voice was strong and vibrant. He was the warm-up act for Michelle Obama.

The wife of Barack Obama address was filled with themes of family, middle class up bring, and love of country. Her family’s life in Chicago has held sway over her life. Her father was a blue collar city worker and her mother stayed at home.

She talked about values that Barack and her share. “You see, Barack doesn’t care where you’re from or what you’re background is…we know what our world should look like. We know what fairness and justice and opportunity look like.” There was one emotional moment in the speech where her voiced crack. “All of us are driven by a simple belief that the world as it is just won’t do. That we have an obligation to fight for the world as it should be. That is the thread that connects our hearts. This tread runs through my journey and Barack’s journey and so many other improbable journeys that have brought us here tonight.”
For some in the audience Ms. Obama broke the unwritten rule here at the DNC, mentioning Senator Hillary Clinton. “People like Hillary Clinton, who put those 18 million cracks in the glass ceiling, so that our daughters and sons can dream a little bigger and aim a little higher.” The crowd gave a standing ovation at the reference

There was also a reference to Senator Joseph Biden who will be Obama’s running mate. I was standing near him as she spoke about him during the speech.

You may be wondering how and where she got this voice. One person who knew her before the trappings of politics is Donnell Stewart of Catonsville, MD Class of 1989. Stewart and Michelle Robinson (Michelle Obama’s maiden name) were members of the tenth class of Blacks to attend Princeton University.

Princeton was one of the last Ivy League Schools to embrace the affirmative action concept. As Stewart tells it, “we came from varied areas. There were large contingents from Ohio and New York; less from the West Coast... 2 from Boston and small group from Chicago.”

The attrition rate for Black students was high. She attributed this lost of Black students to the times. In the early eighties minority students were protesting the divestment in the apartheid regime of South Africa. Some students were dismissed for the activities.

“She (Michelle Obama) was a silent behind the scenes player,” according to the Catonsville resident. “You have to understand we were bookworms.” She says a lot of minorities on campus gravitated to the “Third World Cultural Center.” Minorities were oddities at the Ivy League school. The world they entered into included prep schools graduates, country club memberships, questions about who are your mother and father, and what year did they graduate from Princeton. Until arriving at Princeton many of these students interaction with minorities was limited to someone serving them a meal.

Stewart says by their second year there was a great deal of solardarity among the limited number of Black students at Princeton. "You got to understand, this is a town of rich white people."

The protest lead to the creation of an all black dorm that was known as the PIC. This group pushed the envelope. They had chance to bring in varied speakers like Minister Louis Farrakhan. There is no record Michelle attending the lecture.

Stewart surmises the adminstration figured out Black students from lower economic means were more trouble than they were worth. By the late 80's there was a change in admission policies. This she says changed the mix of Black students from a varied economic circumstances (more well to do Black families). The era of protest subsided.

Having a degree from Princeton opens doors. “Look, a number of people at Princeton went to law school.” Michelle was a scholar in the Woodrow Wilson School of Public and International Affairs.

The two ladies still talk but its campaign season and it hasn’t been frequent. She wouldn’t miss the opportunity to see history. Although she didn’t have credentials to get into the Pepsi Center she was watching.

Kodak Moment

The speech was over and I was getting off the floor when some said, “look.” I turned and saw the Obama kids, Malia and Sasha. Having kids appear on stage is not unusual for national political conventions. What was different was the appearance of Obama via satellite. “Daddy what city are you in?” Talk about an “ah” moment.

Analysis

The speech hit a lot of the points, but as a veteran of these conventions I’m reminded the event is not for the people in the room but for the vast television audience who are getting their first look at the people who want to lead this country.

Tonight there is a lot of speculation about, “What Hillary will say? Will her supporters back Obama?” I’ll be watching and I hope you will too.

Late last night, I got word about the disruption of an assignation plot against Obama. For details you can go to this web sight

http://www.rockymountainnews.com/news/2008/aug/25/police-investigate-possible-plot-kill-obama/

C3

DENVER is Chocolate City

2008-08-25T23:42:00.005-04:00

(Denver) – “God bless Chocolate City and it’s Vanilla Suburbs.”

If you’re old enough to remember this funk classic from Parliament you know it as the in-your-face motto for the rise of Black Mayors in the seventies. A new beast was awakened and literally changed politics. White political incumbents lost their grasp of power with the rise of Black electorates, it was a changing tide.

Now fast forward to Denver, August 25, 2008 and the arrival of the Democrat National Convention. Democrats, specifically Black Democrats, are occupying the “Mile High City.” With only a four percent Black population the invasion has transformed this city into “Chocolate City.” It’s not like the city hasn’t seen a Black politician. Denver once boasted Mayor Wellington Webb as it leader and his name adorns the city’s municipal center.

There is a strangeness of sorts as I move about the city with storefronts and business establishments adorn with Obama paraphernalia. The Black community here is engaged. At a reception on Sunday, hosted by the Colorado Association of Black Journalist, Colours TV, a multi-cultural cable channel (http://www.colourstv.com/site/) was introduced.

This week the Jazz and Blues Festival of Denver dates were changed to coincide with the DNC convention. The Five Points area is widely accepted as the epicenter of black life having hosted jazz greats from Lionel Hampton to Dizzy Gillespie. My host in the city says there is a gentrification process underway where long time residents are being moved out, but it continues to maintain its historic roots.

At every turn I’m finding people who’ve brought others to Denver to experience this convention. Word is the migration won’t stop until Thursday when the population in the city is going to burst at the seams. Delegations from every state have new delegates that are Black. So who does this Chocolate City benefit? It’s obvious black entertainment.

The names are like an A-list of those pushing the envelope on big screens and small screens. Spike Lee is making the rounds promoting his upcoming movie Miracle at St. Ann. It’s the story of an all Black World War Two regiment that liberates an Italian town.

Why not throw in the mix Oprah Winfrey, Danny Glover, Alfred Woodward, Giancarlo Esposito, and
Jurnee Smollett for just a little star power.

They aren't the only ones looking to cash in. Think about this TV-One has never had a news division and they are here. BET, who’s record on solid news coverage which has been suspect, is here. Black Talk Radio is here Tom Joiner, Michael Basiden, Bev Smith, Mark Thompson, Joe Madison, and host of others who know it’s important to be “in-the-house.”

“CC they say you’re jive and game…and can’t be tamed, but on the positive side you’re my piece of the rock and I love you CC.

Gaining on Ya...God Bless Chocolate City and the Vanilla Suburbs.

C3

IMHO

2008-08-23T20:47:00.004-04:00

(Denver) - I didn’t get the text, but some of you may have. Yes, the text letting you know Senator Joseph Biden was chosen as Senator’s Barrack Obama’s running mate. I got it “the old fashion” way. I was up late at night trying to pack for Denver with the CNN on in the background. Around 1:30 a heard a breaking news bulletin and Larry King extended his show. By 3:00 am (yes I was still packing for a 5:30am flight) it was all over the airwaves.

The decision to send this announcement via texting continues to push the envelope on how new media has changed the political process this go round. Think about how the net’s impact so far. Fundraising, breaking news, and video endorsements are just part of the new phenomena’s we have seen this election season.

This texting business is truly pushing the envelope. I saw it in action at the Obama Primary Rally at the University of Maryland .In the lead up to the Chesapeake Primaries, the rally featured a text number to send information to and received information from. This was an OMG (oh my god) moment. The collection of phone numbers (hard-line or cell) to reach voters could become obsolete to future campaigns or at least not as sought after as they have been in the past. The Obama Campaign has capitalized on instant messaging and conversing via this convoluted syntax. Trying to figure it out in all of its machinations will make your head spin. Go ahead LOL (laugh out loud). It’s generational and old fogies like me are just catching up. It will eventually dwarf those who think they know elections and the electorate.

Following the University of Maryland event I wondered? How many people with text numbers are in the campaign database? I’m hoping to get an answer this week in Denver.

My good friend Rick Blalock, a radio anchor in Atlanta, who signed up for this service has received no less than three texts since he got the initial email at 3 am. They are mining this is ways unimaginable. They also suckered journalist to sign up the same service giving them access to those who shape news coverage (Sorry, I didn’t fall for the O-KEY DOKIE). I going to guess you’ll be receiving a number of texts in the lead up November. The bad news you’ll have difficulty removing the messages moving ahead (FYI, I’m going to check with my technology guru the figure out how you do this).

The Biden Factor

So was Biden’s selection about shoring up issues in the Obama Campaign? You bet it is. IMHO

There is a need for the Obama/Biden ticket to connect with “Blue Collar Voters,” take leaning role on foreign policy, and create a McCain attack that will be effective. So the choice of Biden allows the campaign to answer all of these questions and makes this a reasoned choice.

I was at the Philadelphia Airport and watched as television crews waited outside the Senator’s residence in Delaware as he was heading to Springfield, Illinois. You can bet Pennsylvania is a must carry state for the Obama Campaign. What about Ohio?

I arrived in Denver as the rally in Springfield was just getting underway. I stopped to listen in the lobby of the Hampton Suites Hotel where media credentials were doled out. There were a couple of OMG moments.

In introducing Biden as his running mate Obama said, “I want to introduce the next President of the United States Joseph Biden.” The room where I sat collectively said, “What?” I simple slip, but likely to be mined by Comedy Central and worst the “Republican Attack Dogs.”

The second gaffe comes from Biden. Biden referred to Obama’s stunning movement as “Obama America.” Spontaneity, aside it just came off as “funky.”

They’ll have time to reinterpret what they said but I don’t think the gaffe’s will last (trust me we all have said stupid things).

The Springfield backdrop continues to be a plus for the apparent Democratic Nominee. Connecting it to Lincoln continues to undermine the Republican Brand. The counter for the GOP is Ronald Regan.

In Denver they are still working on Invesco (Mile High) Stadium to prepare it for Thursday. The hottest ticket in town is the credential for general public to attend. Anticipating the large crowd Denver is putting up several public viewing areas.

I’m on way to the huge Media Welcome Party, “A Celebration with Altitude” at Elitch Gardens.

I’ll be going to several events tomorrow including a stop in Denver’s pre-dominantly Black neighborhood and a reception with Colorado Chapter of NABJ.

Blogs to come include SWF, What Hillary Supporters Want, Coattails, and other items of interest as they come along.

Lastly, for those wondering about IMHO – In my humble opinion.

C3

A Question of Faith

2008-08-18T23:00:00.005-04:00

It’s often said that Sunday is one of the most segregated times in America because of how we practice our religious faith. I’m not certain that still exists, but it was interesting to test this theory watching the Saddleback Civil Forum hosted by Pastor Rick Warren in California on Sunday, August 17, 2008. The audience while not balanced lacked a sufficient number of Africa Americans and other people of color in my opinion.

Evangelicals who have played a significant role in past presidential campaigns are literally up for grabs. There is less “faith” in the Republican brand then in the past and this has opened up a potential swing group for Democrats. The advent of the mega churches like those of Pastor Warren have on several occasions wreaked havoc on traditional Black churches and their connection to the faith based electorate.

The forum which aired on CNN is a testament to the overall tenor of this presidential campaign which continues to discount race as a subtext that no one wants to see and let alone are willing to discuss honestly and openly. I was not in the room but it was evident by the cut-a-ways (pictures of the audience) the lack of people of color invited to discuss this issue of faith.

Faith, as I know it has no color. No group has a monopoly on its practice or interpretation. The politicization of faith on both sides has created a number of amen corners which causes me to pause. The founders of the country knew this well with the decision to separate church and state.

This separation has come under attack from several corners. Faith is intended to be a moral guidance. The subject matters clergy and the faithful are dealing with are broad and complex. It includes questions about sacred institutions (marriage), international incidents (genocide), health (aids), environmental issues (global warming), medical technology (stem cells) and criminal structures (the death penalty). Add into this heated mixture the question of abortion and you have the makings of a volatile electorate subgroup that can and has had its say on politics during the last eight years.

Pastor Warren must be commended on being the first to have the two presidential nominees on the same stage. His questions were definitely not those we have heard from journalist.

They included the following: Define what does rich mean in today’s society? Is there evil in the world and what do we do about it? When does life begin? What is your greatest moral failure? There are no simple answers to any of these daunting questions, even for the savviest politician.

Barrack Performance

His appearance at this event was precarious. The decision to appear before the group did not frighten him as it has for several past democratic nominees. The Illinois Senator has spoken candidly about faith and its ramifications on his life.

The Highs

1. Answer to moral failure, “youthful transgressions.” These are well documented in his book and serves as a playbook for future politicians who may have experimented with drugs and alcohol(Just ask W).

2. “You’re rich if you sell a million plus books (a dig at Pastor Warren who like Obama has made money off of writings). Defining one as rich if they make $250,000. This figure for the average American would seem plausible.

3. Sitting in the room was a plus. He came he answered, he didn’t necessarily conquer but in this election there will be no solid voting blocks. The key from my perspective is limiting those who may disagree with you to 80 per cent plurality.

The Lows

1. Inability to be precise and say what you mean. It’s a charge that continues to haunt the candidate. He sounds too much like a college professor. He did this at large rallies in the early going of the campaign and came off as a “deep thinker.”

2. Nuancing the issue of abortion. Evangelicals don’t necessarily agree with this concept. I better way is to toss it back at those who want every unwanted pregnancy to come to term. ( i.e. Can we agree if we practiced birth control there would be no need have this conversation? Or Commit to financial resources where every child in an impoverished areas will have the same life as you.)

John McCain

McCain is like many GOP members before him, placating this group but delivering little. It’s amazing to me the attention given to Obama’s religious observances and how few questions are asked of McCain about faith. Here are some questions that may be worth knowing. What church does he belong to? How often does he attend service? Does he have a spiritual advisor?

I know the McCain camp has often told those who’ve inquired about this are greeted with “it’s a private matter.” So to open up honestly in a public forum was new and for me a chance to get some insight.

The Highs

1. Answering questions with definitive yes and no’s. McCain’s military background of “yes sir, no sir” served him well. It was also a stark contrast to Obama. The no equivocation on the issue of abortion (“Life begins at conception”) was a delight to those in attendance.

2. The ability to steer the conversation to McCain talking points. “Drill off-shore now.” “Let me tell you about my time in captivity.” Easily this is the muscle of the McCain campaign and it resonates. The offshore drilling issue has many converts including Obama, Representative Nancy Pelosi and Paris Hilton. The Vietnam War stuff pulls at your heart. It’s a narrative where there is no comeback.

The Lows

1. You’re rich if you make 5 million dollars. Oh really!!! The good senator would know since he and his wife I believe qualify. I’m going to guess a few of their close friends would also qualify.

2. “The cone of silence.” Supposedly, McCain was kept in a room where he couldn’t here the questions asked of Obama. Eerily, his answers seemed more rehearsed and targeted to buttress the early statements. It’s been reported he was in car on the way to the facility when the Illinois Senator was on stage. I do believe McCain was coached prior to the event. Pastor Warren did give each candidate some of the questions. So it’s logical to think people in the campaign devised a strategy to answer them.

(Sidebar) – The last time McCain was hit with a question he wasn’t prepared for was on the issue of whether insurance companies should pay for viagra for men, but not for birth control pills. A lot of uhs and hmm’s.

Conclusions:

It was an interesting discussion. The moderator however failed to follow-up with questions to probe deeper into the candidate’s answers. Remember this is a pastor who hears peoples problems, desires, and there ability to connect with their faith. I guess expecting a follow-up would be too much.

Just wondering out loud, would the questions been different if T.D Jakes had moderated?

Lastly, I will continue to beat the drum that politics is not the domain of white men over 50 years old. The upcoming presidential debates which feature white males only will bear this out. I’m tired of people questioning my fairness because there is a black candidate. Let’s start asking that same question of my colleagues, who are in the majority.

I’m less than a week from heading to Denver and on Wednesday we may know who Sen. Barrack Obama’s has chosen for a running mate. Can't wait and hope you’ll be watching too.

C3

Mac and Hayes Influence on Politics

2008-08-11T15:47:00.012-04:00

Politics and entertainment have unusual intersections. Despite the current fascination with Obama's so call celebrity status it's interesting to note the passing of Bernie Mac, comedian and Issac Hayes, singer song writer.

Bernie Mac

Mac who died Friday, August 8, 2008 was a year younger than me. I meet "the Mac Man" while covering the 1996 Democratic National Convention in Chicago while working for BET. My crew and I were invited to an afternoon reception at the Du Sable Museum on the South Side. The event was held out doors. It was filled with a number of Chicago Politico's. Some how during the event the host came up to me and suggested I talk with this comedian named Bernie Mac. I was unfamiliar with his talent but felt obligated to talk with him (earlier in the day I'd interviewed Chris Rock who was working for the Comedy Channel, pre-John Stewart).

I'd introduced myself and asked for his take on Bill Clinton who was making his second run at the White House. Mac was wearing his trademark summer white hat,
he launched into what I would later discover "a bit" he perfected on stage. "You see, Clinton is just like a brother; he plays sax, likes black people and he smokes a little weed." It was just enough for me not to break-up.

As we went back to United Center I was thinking, "How the hell, I'm gonna use this on the air." Reviewing the tape several times I came to this simple conclusion, "Mac is saying what many people in the Black community were saying."

The bit was meshed with Rock's take on the political scene in Chicago and I became a fan.

His rise to stardom made an impression on me.

Fast forward to this year. At a recent Barrack Obama event Bernie Mac showed up to do a few jokes. For the uninitiated if you give a comedian (especially a Black one) a mike there may be a few embarrassing moments. This was the case with Mac talking about menopause and several salacious comments (par for today's Black Comedians). There were several boos from the audience. Obama would calm the crowd saying he was just joking (that's what comedians do). Later Obama would issue a press release saying the comments were inappropriate. I'm guessing the good senator would like to take that back right about now.

Issac Hayes

My introduction to Issac Hayes came in the form of the album Hot, Buttered, Soul. My dad wore the album out. He'd put on Walk on By and won't let it stop until he got to the 18 minute version of By the Time I Get to Phoenix (the Glenn Campbell pop-hit). The song has a rap in the beginning in which Hayes delivers this searing letter to the woman who cheated on him. I hated the song, especially after my dad play it for an entire month(He always told me this was a classic). Recently my Brother-In-Law dumped it on a CD and I couldn't get out of the car until it was over.

Most people equated Issac Hayes with the music score to "Shaft"...Rightfully so. The album ushered in a new era of music and strength for urban communities ("You know that cat Shaft is a bad Mother...shut yo mouth...I'm just talkin bout Shaft). Being hip was having an afro, wearing that leather jack and taking it to the man. Several politicians across the country were quick to capitalized on this assertion paying dividends in the mid 70's. This include Richard Hatcher-Gary, Indiana; Carl Stokes-Cleveland, Ohio; Maynard Jackson-Atlanta, Georgia; and many others.

Black Moses liberated the masses from the "get along to go along" candidates. Hayes' music became the backdrop for their campaigns.

The late 70's through the early 80's became sour point for Hayes music. With STAX declaring bankruptcy(his record label), the Memphis sound gave way to pulsating disco. As a DJ during this period I was surprised to find in my mailbox an Issac Hayes album on the Polydor Label called, New Horizon.
I almost pitched it in the trash but instead put the needle to the wax. When the song "Moonlight Lovin' (Menage a Trois)" came on I had to stop. It was lush, had a pulsating beat which mixed well for my late night show on WVCW-820 am.

Jump ahead to 2000. My wife and I had an opportunity to see Issac Hayes and piano virtuoso Cyrus Chestnut in Baltimore, Maryland. For most people they were probably thinking it was going to be a "Shaft Revisited" concert. In fact, my wife who I love dearly, wore in outfit I jokingly called, "Ginger from the 'Solid Gold Dancers'." It was hot !!!

When Hayes arrived on stage he came in a appointed Black Moses type outfit and Chestnut was understated in suit and tie. Hayes plunked on a stool, and while Chestnut sat at the piano. That's it. No full orchestra, no wah wah guitars, and no pulsating lights and dancers. It was laid back. He played Walk on By, Never Can Say Goodbye, several other tunes mostly ballads. It was getting close to the end and I told my my wife if he doesn't play "By the Time I Get to Phoenix" I'll be pissed, and I going to guest so would several other patrons. Hayes did not disappoint. The rap was updated but hit the chord so many of us had long to hear. The voice was clear and to the point(How the hell did that woman cheat on him seven times, and seven times he still went back?).

So what does this have to do with Black Politics? As far as I can tell, over my life time there are intersections of music, pop culture and entertainment. Some say it's the background noise we don't hear. If you think I'm joking at the next Obama Rally or John McCain rally listen to the music you hear as they are walking off stage (Obama uses a Stevie Wonder tune and McCain's has Big and Rich playing the background). What does it say about who you are? A lot !!!!

FYI...The pair are in a yet to be released movie called "Soul Men." As Sam and Dave would say,"I'm a Soul Man !!!!!"

Obama at Unity

2008-07-31T15:33:00.002-04:00

The build up to this year's Unity Conference was predicated on the arrival of the two presidential contenders, Senators John McCain and Barrack Obama. By the time I arrived in Chicago (7/20/08) only Obama had agreed to appear. His arrival would come on last day of the conference when most journalist are headed home.

Here's a note to the McCain...you could have had the stage to yourself and made news. Journalist who have influence in communities that you have no way of reaching could have given you a unique opportunity. Those communities would have at least acknowledge your presence. Keep dissing these minority groups and you will be irrelevant in years to come.

Make no doubt about it, Obama is the story of this campaign. His upcoming nomination, his nomination speech on the day of the "I have a dream speech"; and the fact it's at Invesco Field in Denver (likely filled to the brim) will have a lasting political effect.

I sat on the front row of the Sunday morning (7/27/08) q-and-a. Note that before the session began the audience was warned to act appropriately. At the last Unity in 2004 there was inappropriate applause/booing. Know at this event there are a number of young journalist who may not know how to react during a press event. Also there were a number of non-journalist and I have also learned there were a number of Obama supporters who came. You will hear clapping which I would have preferred were silent during this session. For the most part those reactions came from non-journalist. I know for a fact seated several seats from me were Singer Patti Austin and former journalist Carol Simpson and her family. I'm glad they came but do not think this was indicative of journalist in the room.

Lastly, the Senator is very nuanced. He has this uncanny ability to flip questions which maybe disastrous to answer and either turn them back on the inquisitor or find the "silver lining in the answer." Watch for yourself.

In the days following this event a new set of challenges cropped up. Including several ads from the McCain camp suggesting Obama is as popular as Brittney Spears or Paris Hilton; and the suggestion his anointing comes as if he were Charleston Heston playing Moses.

The rebuttal has been "is that the best you got." Don't fall into the trap. The Obama Camp took the bait.

This is going to be a rough and tumble week for McCain and Obama.

Why Cardin Won? (full chapter)

2006-12-15T16:54:00.000-05:00

Conventional wisdom would say Ben Cardin was preordained to take over the senate seat vacated by Senator Paul Sarbanes. While Maryland Democratic political strongmen like Rep. Steny Hoyer and State Senator Mike Miller may have suggested the election was “in the bag,” Cardin knew otherwise.

After winning a significant primary challenge against Kweisi Mfume, the three-term congressman turned his attention to the Republican challenger Michael Steele. The showdown was the equivalent of heavyweight bout - and played out like one - all the way to the end.

His first task was to blunt the Steel enthusiasm sparked by TV ads which foreshadowed negative ads with spooky music and absurd claims. The cute ads were effective. But the ads quickly went into attack mode. An initial attack ad claimed Cardin accepted money from prescription drug companies. A second attack tried to link the Cardin campaign to the theft of Steele’s credit report. In fact, it was a member of the Democratic Senatorial Campaign Committee (DSCC) — not Cardin’s campaign — who illegally obtained his credit report.

Cardin struck back, however, with claims of “What does Steele stand for?” The initial rebuttal ads refuted the claims of the attack ads. There was also an ad that spoofed the puppy ad and linked the Lieutenant Governor to President George Bush. I believe the initial salvo had limited effect, but the constant drumbeat did wear on voters. It was a similar strategy employed by Senator Barbara Mikulski (She stymied charges by E.J. Pipkin that she didn’t help veterans).

Cardin also knew Steele wanted to limit his exposure to tough questions. Hence, the congressman went on the offensive early to debate. Following the primary, Steele and Cardin had only agreed to debate on NBC’s “Meet the Press.” Despite wanting to control when and where to debate Cardin, Steele was unfortunately not in charge of the process. In the process, Cardin made a calculation he could handle any setting as long as Steele showed up. Steele consistently wanted Kevin Zeese, the Green Party candidate, included in debates. Yet, Zeese never polled above 10%. Steele knew Zeese would attack the presumptive frontrunner, Cardin. Cardin, to his credit, always knew it wasn’t about Zeese; it was about Steele.

Lining up Democrats in the state was another key element for the congressman. Cardin, also the former Speaker of the House of Delegates, had helped numerous political careers in the state and literally called in every chip. This enabled him to get in front of friendly audiences in parts of the state that had been trending Republican.

Playing to his base in Baltimore County was a plus, but Cardin also out-worked his opponents in reaching out to voters. I received no less than 7 emails a week detailing various groups Cardin would appear before and take questions. Some were his natural constituency, others weren’t. He wasn’t afraid to wade into groups that aren’t his likely constituency. It included the Howard County Muslim Council, African-American churches in Baltimore and Prince Georges County, and college students at Morgan and Bowie State Universities.

Further, the congressman effectively used his media buys. He blanketed both the Washington and Baltimore markets with TV buys - ramping up buys during the last weekend of the campaign. His radio buys were shrewd. He didn’t shy away from making buys on right-leaning Baltimore Radio Station WBAL. He also targeted African-American voters in the Washington market by making buys on WKYS, WMMJ, WOL, WYCB, WPGC, WYCB, and WHUR. Many of those ads were delivered by Prince George’s County State’s Attorney Glenn Ivey.

Cardin was also the beneficiary of Steele and Republican missteps. Let’s start with the National Black Republican Association radio ad suggesting Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was a Republican. What a blunder! You couldn’t make this stuff up. Steele repudiated the ad, but the damage had been done. Another misstep was a guide for Maryland GOP poll watchers. The guide talked about challenging voters at the polls. This was seen as suppressing the vote, especially Black and Latino voters. The preverbal nail in the coffin was a last minute voter’s guide put out by Democrats for Ehrlich (Gov. Robert Ehrlich). Black voters are much smarter than people give them credit and they rejected the flier.

Interestingly, the item that may have put Cardin over the top was the constant arrival of top Democratic leaders and supporters including Senator Barrack Obama (Obama made two visits), former President Bill Clinton, former Vice President Al Gore, Senator John Kerry (prior to his gaffe in California), former Secretary of State Madeline Albright, and actor Michael J. Fox. The Fox visit came on the heels of Rush Limbaugh’s criticism of Fox’s suffering from Parkinson Disease. It made national press and crystallized the differences between Cardin and Steele. It’s a playbook that will long be remembered in Maryland politics.

The following is an excerpt from “A Cold Day In Hell.”

Why Did Cardin Win?

2006-11-29T10:28:00.000-05:00

For those of you who wondering, please check out the latest excerpt at B-More News. This is the link http://www.bmorenews.com/news/112206_news_why_cardin_won_charles_robinson_III_association_black_media_workers_2006_senator_ben_congressman_maryland_michael_steele.htm

(sorry it so long....)

C3

Why Steele Lost?

2006-11-15T16:09:00.000-05:00

To understand what doomed the Steele Campaign look at the collection of supporters in the ballroom at the Bowie Comfort Inn election night. Steele supporters in the room were a mismatch of groups who wouldn't normally be in the same room. Their mantra was Steele but, it failed. Some of the destruction was self-inflicted, other parts were unforeseen circumstances.

The Lieutenant Governor connects to a lot of unusual groups in the state. There are traditional conservatives and religious conservatives, small and black business interest, an emerging Hip-Hop generation and died in the wool Ronald Regan Republicans and Democrats. The group he failed to connect with was progressives, centrists and independents.

They were critical this election. Some events over took the campaign. A deadly turn for the worst in Iraq, and a chance Democrats could gain control of the U.S. Senate meant more was riding on this election other than who would represent Maryland. The big issues of the day brought in big money from the national parties.

It allowed for slick marketing (The dog TV spots go down as the cleverest ad of the entire political season). I still believe Marylanders however want their politicians to connect to them on many levels. Leadership is not just about standing your ground but, clearing a path to create better ideas. In Maryland, a traditional Blue Democratic state, the seismic shift to the right was temporally halted. If anything the body politic wanted to move away from right leaning ideology and more to a progressive approach to governing.

The self inflictions began early on in this campaign and literally cause a shift in campaign strategy. Following a speech at a local synagogue the Lieutenant Governor tried to equate the holocaust with the middle passage where slaves died during the trip to the new world. He added further insult when questioned about stem cell research. Steele opposes embryonic stem cell research based on religious grounds. He suggested that "you of all people should know what happens when people experiment on other people." A gasp went up in the room and any chance of getting Jewish votes was lost. Literally, following that gaffe several local campaign staffers were replaced by seasoned Republican staffers who wanted to nationalize the race and use over arching GOP themes. Those themes are difficult to employ in Maryland.

The anger the Republican candidate hope to tap into in the African-American community never materialized. Early on the Steele campaign would look at the lack of African Americans at the top of the Democratic ticket as a possible wedge issue. The thinking in the Steele camp was loses by popular Black candidates (Mfume and Stuart Simms) were ripe for the picking up votes from Maryland's African-American community
especially in Prince Georges County.

The angst Black voters felt may have been turned off with last minute flyers from Steele and Erhlich Campaigns. The flyers were specifically targeted in Prince Georges County. It included a scurrilous flyer put out by Imogene Thompson, a deeply religious African-American woman from the Washington suburb. Her flyer suggested a vote for Cardin would mean African-Americans could be forced back into slavery (the campaign disavowed the flyer).

There were two other flyers that sent the wrong message to Black voters. One was entitled "Wait," the other was a sample ballot put out by "Democrats for Erhlich" that suggested Kweisi Mfume, Jack Johnson and Wayne Curry had endorsed the Governor Erhlich(Curry did endorse the governor but, Johnson and Mfume actually endorsed Democrat Gubernatorial Nominee Martin O'Malley). The desired effect was to tap into black voter angst. It had the opposite effect and may have generated anger that flipped the goodwill Steele enjoyed in Prince Georges County. Steele needed to win this jurisdiction and he didn't.

This race was also about policies surrounding the Iraq War. Here's the question I asked during the Urban League debate, "Put forth a plan that will either allow American forces to withdraw or paint a picture of how we stabilize a situation where by all accounts is going badly?" Steele wavered and I tried to pin him down. He failed to get what most people believed in this election, things are going badly Iraq.

In many ways Steele's campaign urged on by the Republican Senatorial Campaign Committee was an albatross he tried to abandon (he definitely need their fundraising prowess) but, was unable to do so. It enabled his opponent to define him with President Bush. The President's poll numbers hovered near 40%. Steele claimed to be a change agent but, calling the president your "homeboy," isn't exactly setting yourself up to have policy differences. It was clever strategy to run against the GOP in a state that is two to one democratic.

Embryonic Stem Cell research is a progressive issue. Cardin utilizing Michael J. Fox to endorse his candidacy hit a cord with centrist and independents which in the past leaned Republican. Once again Steele was defined and was left trying to redefine himself by utilizing his own sister in a television ad who admitted to having MS. Steele does not endorse stem cell research but, believes in using adult stem cells.

I went looking for what was described to me as a Steele voter on Election Day. I expected her to be an African-American woman in her mid-thirties to mid-forties. It had been suggested by one Democratic observer that this was the voter who could make or break Steele. Instead I found a much older woman whose religious beliefs guided her decision to vote for Steele. Alicia Faunteroy of Prince Georges County was symbolic of this group. Faunteroy said she was guided to vote for by him because of "godly principle values." This is code for black evangelicals who place faith above race, social issues, and broader world issues. As a group they are often part of the Mega church phenomena in the black community. Prince Georges County is now the home to several of these churches. The GOP has targeted this group and was able to bring them on board because of issues like same sex marriage. While the group has its pluses, its negative is that it is very insular. If you aren't a part of the church you might as well have the plague. Trying to convince them to reach out to others is difficult. To see them at a political fundraiser with the consumption alcohol I believe irked them. In fact Ms. Faunteroy was no where to be found as the night went on.

Lastly, Maryland's GOP can boast that it found new African-Americans to join the party and cross over Democrats. It's a group that's "will not go quietly into that good night." Policies of race division that use to mark Maryland's Republican Party should be over. This new group won't always be there. Live and learn, because the state deserves to have people of color in both parties to bring forward an agenda that is in the best interest of the state.

The following is an excerpt for the upcoming book, "A Cold Day In Hell."

Why Did Mfume Loose?

2006-09-15T00:26:00.000-04:00

“The state (Maryland) is not ready for a Black candidate,” according to Wayne, a supporter of Ben Cardin. “I want to go with a winner,” said the Black business activist. Wayne is atypical of what you would expect of a Black Democrat in the state and Baltimore. He bucked the party apparatus in the 2002 election and help lead the coalition of “Democrats for Erhlich.” His independence is couch in the unspoken rule of “What have you done for me lately?” and an entrepreneurial class who is less out in front. Instead he and those of his ilk prefer to “wheel and deal” behind the scenes.

Without being prodded Wayne cuts to the chase. “Why did Mfume loose? I think that issue over women was critical,” according to him. It’s a mantra that I heard over and over in the final months leading up to the campaign and a fear that supporters of Mfume constantly expressed.

“Is there something more to the female allegations?” Do the Republicans have something on Mfume they plan on using in the general election?” With each inquiry the skepticism was evident.

“There was no way I was going to support Mfume” says Delegate Jill Carter of Baltimore, one of the Democrats rising stars. The issue of “honesty” was a factor for her and a number of Baltimore Democrats who literally inherited the legacy of Mfume in Baltimore politics. While Carter never said directly Mfume’s dalliances with female employees while at the NAACP was wrong. When I asked her about the issue her facial expression told the story.

I don’t want to suggest that this was the only issue to sink the Mfume campaign but it was this slow creep of doubts in the African-American community and the broader community that played a factor.

Here are some of my other observations:

No Longer a Rock Star – Mfume for a generation that came of age during the 70’s was larger than life. His street credibility was cache. He “stuck it to the man” while dressed in a suit and tie. People naturally rallied to him because they saw in him themselves. The myth and the man however were never able to energize this group. While supporters were prepared to votes for Mfume, they couldn’t convince their skeptical white friends to vote for someone who didn’t look like them. Lastly, where were their checks?

Losing Hip-Hop – This constituency should have been Mfume’s from the get go. Embracing this group is double edge sword. I still believe Hip-Hop has some growing pains. This however, is the electorate of the future. By tying in with the group you tap into technology and the cyberworld in which they pulse. The endorsement by Russell Simmons of Michael Steele should be a wake up call to any Black or White candidate in the Democratic Party. Caution to Republicans being Black isn’t enough.

Money – Mfume was polling at or near 40 percent without television ads. He had name recognition. His inability to raise capital in the state was due in part to three factors.
1. Multiple races where people were begging for political contributions.
2. Should have taken PAC (Political Action Committee)amd corporate money.
3. Should have had a heart to heart talk with the NAACP hierarchy and pleaded with them to let him speak at their national convention in Washington. This would have generated press and more importantly money from those outside of Maryland during what you call a meet and greet.

Campaign Strategy – Mfume’s team while competent needed an infusion of new blood. The head of Mfume’s election campaign and a veteran of Mfume campaigns, was mounting what I believe was an 80’s style campaign. Yes, speak to many groups, get the endorsements, and raise money but this campaign lacked imagination and energy. To some extent it was wonkish.

Television Ads and Other Promotional Tools –Dropping your television ad the last week before the primary was too late. Yes, I know he didn’t have money but, it was too late. I liked the message and the tagline, “It’s not where you start but how you finish that counts.” This should have been the campaign slogan. Drop that national Democratic line, “We can do better.” (I still don’t know what this means?) The campaign should have utilized the net more. There was a 3-4 minute testimonial from Mfume running on his website the month before the primary. It talked about why he was running. The campaign should have broken this item into four different thirty second commercials. I also believe in order to reach beyond your natural constituency there was a need for a commercial that didn’t show Mfume but talked about values and Maryland. With money being spent on electronic media (television and radio) direct mail was non-existent. Lastly, radio has somewhat lost it’s effectiveness with African-American electorate because of consolidation in the industry and it’s emphasis on entertaining rather than enlightenment. The medium can be used effectively if you want to define yourself and more importantly your opponent.

Style – This item is subjective and you may agree or disagree. He needed to loose the suit coat, shirt, and tie (Not all at once). I will tell you I am “clothes hound” but, over the years I have learned to temper my own fashion tastes. I where more polo shirts with jackets than I ever have in my lifetime. Yes, there are appropriate places to put on the uniform (suit and tie). People view those in the uniform these days with an air of superiority. In a campaign it is essential that you be of the people and not above the people.

Loosing the Base – Early on in the campaign I called the Mfume Campaign Headquarters to ask a question and didn’t get my call returned until two days later. (Reporters don’t often get their calls returned right away but when running a campaign it’s important at least to find out what the question is to formulate an answer.) I spoke with several people, who aren’t reporters, who also said they had a similar experience in trying to contact the campaign headquarters. I chalked this up to putting a staff in place. People who are trying to contact you are your base and it’s important to return phone calls and get answers.

The base constiuency for Mfume is Baltimore City and Baltimore County, but the place that was most excited about Mfume was Prince George’s County (What’s wrong with this picture?).

To attack or not attack – Political consultants will tell you when you’re down by ten percentage points going on the attack is not going to hurt you. The closest Mfume came to doing this was during the live televise debate on Maryland Public Television. During the debate I posed this question to both candidates. “A spotlight was shown on this congress and the influence of money on the political process. Mr. Cardin and Mr. Mfume during your time in congress you have both excepted money from special interest groups looking to influence legislation. What steps should be taken to make sure that legislation when it is drafted is in the best interest of both the citizenry and business interest?” Mr. Mfume answered that “I don’t go around and take special interest corporate dollars” (well that’s not exactly true) and he went on to questions Cardin’s acceptance of those dollars. This was his opening to separate himself from Cardin. He didn’t.

Lastly, during the debate Mfume suggested having him face Steele in the general election would remove race from off the table. I’m not certain if that would be case but, we’ll never find out in lieu of his lost to Cardin.

C3

Notes from Steele Endorsement by Russell Simmons/Cathy Hughes

2006-09-13T22:44:00.000-04:00

The arrival of an invitation for a Steele Fundraiser in Baltimore on August 24, 2006 was nothing new, except this was an endorsement event featuring Hip-hop mogul Russell Simmons and Black media entrepreneur Cathy Hughes and founder of Radio One. While Simmons’ endorsement was not unusual, (he had allowed Steele to host a party during the 2004 Republican National Convention in New York at the 40/40 Club) Hughes endorsement seemed highly unusual.

Hughes involvement in politics dates back to her first radio station purchase of WOL-AM in Washington, D.C. She dropped the music format and devoted the station to all talk, all the time. As the CEO, Business Manager and host of the Afternoon drive slot she routinely derided companies and politicians to purchase time on the station or face public ridicule. Additionally, she aligned herself with Democratic candidates both locally and nationally. Their appearances on the airwaves of WOL gave them a platform in the District in the wake of Republican Presidents and GOP control of both houses of congress.

The week before this event Steele received an award from Hughes at the Radio One Awards in Washington, DC. On hand was a who’s who in hip-hop and the rest of the music world but this is politics. I wanted to know how this would affect her standing with Democrat allies like Al Sharpton, Jessie Jackson, and Senator Barrack Obama? I also wanted to know why Steele rather than Kwiesi Mfume, the former Congressional Black Caucus Chair and NAACP CEO? Mfume was a constant presence in her radio hosting days.

When I arrived at the fundraiser I was astonished to see a number of 18-34 year olds (Hip-Hop demographic numbers). The event was held at the New Douglas/Isaac Meyers Maritime Park near Baltimore’s Fells Point. With the water as a backdrop and 120 foot yacht called “Reenergized” adorned with Steele poster it had the feel of a “throw-down” rather than a fundraiser. Add to the mix DJ Kid Capri and the buzz was pure hip-hop.

Steele meandered his way through several private meet and greets before going upstairs for the formal announcement. As many of the attendees made their way to the room for the announcement I began to wonder if Republicans had found Hip-Hop (I had asked this question before on my Blog Site, Charles Black Politics Blog.).

This hip crowd with Blackberry’s, cell phones, and text messengers is truly the untapped voting block that is up for grabs. They have heard their parent’s arguments for the Democratic Party, and questioned “What have they done for you lately?” This group is tired of token faces and stories of how people marched for civil rights. Yes, they are keenly aware of historical significance but, are less tied to history. Their manta seems to be “What can you do for me now?” Sure they questioned what GOP has for them but, in Steele they see him as hip and an entrée into a world of power and influence.

When Simmons leaps to the stage he is dressed in his typical minimalist wardrobe, (I do believe the yoga has mellowed him) t-shirt, jeans, and Phat Farm sneakers. The hip-hop impresario explains to crowd how he “wants to lift people out to poverty” and to remove so called Rockefeller drug laws which send “people through a cycle of criminal behavior.” Simmons told the crowd every time he has a discussion with Steele “the discussion boils down to education and opportunity,” and with that he introduced Steele as the next United States Senator from the State of Maryland.

As Steele makes his way to the podium some one yells, “Steele for President,” “Yea, let me just let get through LG (Lieutenant Governor) first,” as the candidate soaks up the adulation of the crowd. He reminds the crowd of how cool it is to be endorsed by Simmons (especially while wearing a Phat Farm Suit).

At the top of the stump speech he apologizes for Cathy Hughes absence because of family illness but, he reminds the group that “she is on board and is a part of the new team.”

Steele points out the significance of being at this location, “Frederick Douglass first set foot (at this dock) in Baltimore as a slave… a generation after Mr. Douglass, a man named Isaac Myers created the Chesapeake Marine Railway and Dry-dock Company, one of the most successful black owned businesses in Baltimore. I can not think of two of the more appropriate symbols for our message tonight.”

Steele has championed a message Democrats have shied away from “creating legacy wealth.” The concept has deep traditions in the African-American community. From the time of slavery through the civil rights generation each group has looked to better the next. In those early days just out of slavery it was the purchase of land, from the 50’s through the 70’s it was education, and from the eighties to now it has been wealth creation through a business model.

Borrowing from a hip-hop advertising slogan Steele launches into “changing the game.” He believes everyone will have an opportunity to be involved in something important and everyone will benefit. “The greatest empowerment tools not only in the African-American community, in fact all communities is the creation of legacy wealth.” He calls it the new definition of the civil rights movement in the 21st century. He points to early efforts at integrating lunch counters, now “this generation is empowered to own the dinner.”

Steele a student of history has used it to his advantage. He made reference to a description of the state of the Black Community that caused him to pause.

“The African-American baby born in America today regardless of the section of the nation in which he is born, has about one half as much chance of completing high school as a white baby born in that same place on the same day; a one third as much chance of completing college; one third as much chance of becoming a professional man or woman; twice as much chance of becoming unemployed; about one seventh as much chance of earning ten thousand dollars a year; a life expectance which is seven year’s shorter; and the prospect of earning half that during their lifetime.”

The irony, the passage he quoted was from President John F. Kennedy in 1963. It could easily apply to today’s African-African community.

With that he did something very un-Republican. Steele laid out an anti-poverty agenda that he would put forth if he were elected. Few politicians would tackle this subject and the subject would raise eyebrows and bear the scorn of conservatives of the party. Conservatives in the GOP have derided the New Deal legislation for years for its social programs (welfare) and entitlement programs (social security, Medicare, and Medicaid).

“We’re not going to talk about poverty in the senate we’re going to act to relieve this nation of the scourge of poverty…Empowerment creates opportunities that poverty will never let you see. I’m tired of people being blind.”

He recognizes that neither party will be receptive to idea. Utilizing a Clinton-ness tactic (stealing your opponents thunder) Steele suggested that the minimum wage be increased calling it a training wage. Conversely, he said the Democrats must give on tax breaks for small businesses. He then launched in to a litany of initiatives including reforming public schools, increasing Pell grants, expanding work-study programs for colleges and lastly he chastised the poverty exposed by the fallout from Hurricane Katrina.

If that wasn’t enough the senate candidate called for a new Marshall Plan for the Gulf Coast. I’m thinking he has truly gone off the deep-end. Most in the audience correctly thought he was talking about America’s role in rebuilding war ravaged Europe. Steele corrected us who were thinking about that plan, “right idea wrong Marshall. I’m talking about a Throughgood Marshall Plan. Quoting the former Supreme Court Justice, “none of us has gotten where we are by pulling up by our bootstraps. Someone bent down and helped us.” He proceed to name those who historically have help others, “Frederick Douglass, Isaac Myers, Kathy Hughes, Russell Simmons and oh Senator Steele,” as the crowd cheered.

In closing he asked the crowd to send him to the senate where “he can shake up a few things.” Whew, it wasn’t what I expected.

Steele has been on an anti Republican stump for the last month. Revelations about him and the party have trickled out. Does this mean he has the approval of White House operatives to run against the GOP. The strategy looks receptive especially in a state that is 3 to 1 democrat. He’s also taping into a constituency whose loyalty factor hasn’t been tested.

Afterward I question Steele’s press people about him sounding more like a independent rather than a Republican. “No, No, No he’s a Republican make no doubt about it.”

It's Been a While

2006-01-29T17:17:00.000-05:00

For those of you who have been waiting for an update I must apologize. My world has been in "Fast Forward."

But here are a couple of tibits.

I've had a chance to interview several of the participants and you'll be interested to here what they have to say.

Mfume caught up with him at a Washington, DC fundraiser. He asserts that Rep. Steny Hoyer is trying to sabotage his campaign by anointing Rep. Ben Cardin as the presumptive nominee. When I asked Mfume would he ever entertain a discussion about getting out of the race. He was emphatic, "I''d never consider it because I wouldn't."

I also had a chance to interview Rep. Ben Cardin during a Associated Black Charities Town Hall Meeting I moderated. He gave a lot of the usual answers. I was surprise he didn't see the issue of race entering the equation. I also asked him a question related to the Katrina Hurricanes.

"Should Marylanders expect the federal government to come to the aid of people if we have a disaster of the same magnitude?" His answer, "NO."

Lastly, I had a chance to interview several key aids with Lt. Governor Michael Steele.

Victor Clarke, a long time Steele supporter, believes in what is being described as the Black Backlash. The senerio goes like this Mfume is vilified in the Democratic primary and in a consession speech on primary election night chastises the Democratic Party for failing to support his candidacy. He remains lukewarm on endorsing the winner.

Clarke suggests this is an opening for Steele to capitalize on Black voter discontent. Clarke suggests the way for Steele to win is to get Black voters comfortable with voting for a Republican. Clarke sees the support among white Republican voters solid because of Governor Robert Erhlich.

Lastly, the race has been crowded in the U.S. Senate race I'll talk about soon.

Thanks keep checking in.

C3

Mfume, Steele, & Cardin US Senate Race

2005-07-19T16:28:00.000-04:00

When U.S. Senator Paul Sarbanes announced he would retire from the senate it set in motion one of the rare events in Black Politics. For the first time since literally reconstruction there might be a legitimate race between two African-Americans for the United States Senate (trust me you can discount the race between Alan Keyes and Barack Obama).

Jumping out the gate first was Kweisi Mfume. Mfume, resigns his post as Executive Director of the NAACP and announces he will run for the seat. The move was smooth, strategic, and timely. Get out in front and squelched any other Black democrat from seeking the democratic nomination. To most political observers his name recognition and early announcement would surely bring him media attention.

At his annoucement which was held in downtown Baltimore, the former congressman laid out his plans, "My task over the course of this campaign will be to engage everyone who will listen about why what we do in this election is so very important to what we will be able to do in the future.
My role will be to give a new voice to issues affecting everyday working men and working women, as well as the families that they are a part of. My goal will be to build coalition across racial, religious and ethnic lines. At the end of the day we can't allow ourselves to be divided one region of the state against the other or one group in the state against the other. Our ability to work together will always be found in our similarities, not in our differences.
I was taught as a child to work hard play by the rules, love my country and cherish my faith. I am a product of poverty like so many others who are black, Latino, Asian or white. Like them, I too learned first hand why hard work, decency, respect and a commitment to values are important.
I can't be bought, I won't be intimidated and I don't know how to quit.
I'm not looking for fame and I have no need to be validated. I want to go to the United States Senate to make a real difference on behalf of the people of this state and the people of this nation."

On the surface this is a noble/passionate appeal but, with all due respect it will not convince those outside your normal constituency to vote for you especially white democrats. Recent history in the state will tell you that democrats in Maryland do not march in lock step. The middle of state is closer to blue and the edges are closer to red (a reference to democrats and republicans)

There are other issues which continue to come my way which you will here about.

By April 26, 2005, Mfume would not be alone in the democrat race for the U.S. Senate, Congressman Ben Cardin through his hat in the ring. With Baltimore's inner harbor as backdrop, Cardin announced his candidacy. "I believe in an America that keeps its promises. I will work to ensure that Social Security remains a guaranteed benefit for the elderly and disabled. I will fight any attempt to weaken it by diverting money into private accounts.

As your Senator, I'll make sure our workers can compete on a level playing field. And, I'll make sure we can compete with any workers in the world so we keep good jobs here in America. "

As the former Speaker of the Maryland House of Delegate in Annapolis, Rep. Cardin has many favors he can call in, and took little time to do so. If there is one issue to get Maryland democrats united it's social security. With his primary constituency in the jewish community he will have little problem in raising money. Put that together with endorsements from the state's senior congressman, Rep. Steny Hoyer, and money for other potential democrat candidates will dry up quickly.

Once again with all due respect to the congressman, he needs to understand the current make up of the state (revisit my comments about red and blue). Another issue that Cardin may not be aware of is "Black Backlash." This issue is somewhat out of his control but, he can intensify or smooth it over.

The Democrats in Maryland made a misjudgment about whether to run an African-American with Lt. Gov. Kathleen Kennedy Townsend. Her pick of a white Republican did piss-off some democrats(especially some Black Democrats). I'm not certain if this go-round the black electorate will be as forgiving. Lastly, check out who Mayor Martin O'Malley or County Executive Doug Ducan pick as there running mates.

If there is a perception of Cardin being the "great white hope," and he proceeds to vilify Mfume in the primary it could keep African-Americans away from the polls or send them to the Republican nominee.

Lt. Gov. Michael Micheal Steele, has not officially announced but, my sources say he will run in the Republican primary uncontested. The reason, he's a FOB (a friend of Bob Erhlich). The governor's selection of Steele was brillant in his first run for the state house. Most Blacks perceived the Republican Party in the state as for whites only. Steele provide a different face that allowed marginal white women voters (not Black voters) the ability to be comfortable with voting for a Republican.

Despite potential pitfalls Erhlich/Steele have done better than what most expected. The governor's popularity has never been higher and therefore losing Steele isn't a liability. Hoping to cash in on what Erhlich sees as Maryland Republican revolution they would wipe out the losses the GOP have had in the state.

The issue for Steele is will white Marylanders hold their nose and vote for African-American? Yeah, we know the Republicans will but, will "Blue Dog" Democrats? The other issues for Steele will be abortion, social security, and defense. Defense is the easiest but, the other two will keep his head spinning.

The race will heat up interest not only locally but, from other quarters. Stay tunned in for my observations.

C3

Winners and Losers from 2004 Election

2004-11-03T18:23:00.000-05:00

Let's get to the speeches.

John Kerry is a political wimp. I've constantly asked why we are voting for him and he showed us why during his concession speech. "The fight continues." No you lost and your party got trounced. Few members of the Democratic Party can run on the Kerry issues unless they are trying for office in the northeast and maybe in the northwest.

Nancy Pelosi, the Minority Leader in the house, can point to few positives from this election. Yes, the Congressional Black Caucus grew, but that was without her help. She can't get the "bully pulpit" to rally around Democrats. There needs to be an insurrection in Democratic House to put her those of her ilk out of the leadership.

With Tom Daschle gone in the Senate we get a Senator Harry Reid from Nevada to lead the charge. His opposition to Republicans will be tempered because he represents a western district who is opposed to eastern democrats.

Now for the President. You have every right to be grinning. "You cleaned their clocks." Large majority in the house, a bigger majority in the senate except you don't have 60 votes to stop a filibuster. It's gonna be nasty on judges. He asked for others from the other side to work with him...That remains to be seen. With no election to be concerned about this Bush has an opportunity to create a legacy. Let's see. (The easiest legacy will be reshaping the Supreme Court)

Now for the winners and losers

Big Winner

Electronic Voting - it worked for the most part. A few hiccups, but no major catastrophe.

Congressional Black Caucus - Picked seats in Georgia, Texas and have Barrack Obama in the Senate. Wield your new power and crave out a new niche.

Voters, Especially Black Voters - You went to the polls in record numbers and proved your force.

Doug Wilder - New Mayor of Richmond who ran as an independent (a trend that may prove to be winning formula).

Marion Barry - returns to Washington as a council member

Young people - for those who voted remember these events happen annually.

Losers

Democratic Message - its not universal and doesn't relate to people in the middle of the country and the south.

Lawyers - on both sides - You geared up for the battle royal that never materialized.

Religion - you are either with us or against. Evangelical Christians who come in every color have to many litmus test. Were we voting for bishop, cardinal, or pope?

Exit Polls - let's get rid of this device. It hasn't worked in the last two presidential elections and you are holding the nation hostage.

TV Networks - to many talking heads and no real reporting.

It's Over

2004-11-03T13:45:00.000-05:00

They've looked at the totals and have done the math. President Bush will be president. Kerry is to make an announcement at 1 pm est. Bush will do his thing at 3 pm est.

It will be interesting what they have to say.

The bottomline. whoever won this race doesn't have a mandate (48 percent of america think you shouldn't be president).

Hardball politics or rational politics? (I'll bet that the winner will go with the adage...the winner gets the spoils.)

So how did the GOP win?

Simple and clear messages, appeal to voters morals, and get out your voters.

How did the DEMS lose?

They need better candidates. Northeasterners will not carry the south (look at the map). There is an elitism that does not translate well to other parts of the nation. Clear messages...embrace faith...stand for something. The next candidate needs to create a new label for democrats other than liberal. Try defining Republicans.

The Day After

2004-11-03T13:42:00.000-05:00

At 6:30 AM I turn on the tube to find the election hasn’t been decided. It hedges on OHIO and more specifically I hear an interview with the Secretary of State Ken Blackwell, a Black Republican. “We’ll have to wait 11 days to count provisional ballots.” My son Julian goes, “What.”

I give my assessment to WEAA-FM and try and follow what’s at stake.

I arrive at work to keep my ear on what’s going on. This election has come down to 113,000 votes. That’s how far ahead President Bush is in the race for OHIO. There are a some 250,000 votes in question. Much of them are provisional ballots which will have to be certified individually. Boy, that’s a slim lead, but not insurmountable. The president’s spokesman says he’ll come out at 10 to announce Bush is the winner. They may want to rethink that idea.

Election Day

2004-11-03T13:37:00.000-05:00

I wake up to learn that a federal court in OHIO has decided that partisan observers can challenge voters in the buckeye state. This could prove to be a problem especially for Black Folks.

Went to vote with the kids dressed in my vote or die t-shirt. Was happy to see others in similar attire. It is the outfit of choice. There are a lot of first time voters in line.

I jump on line to see about Philly and there are reports of fights at polling stations and votes already counted by machines. This is going to be a long night.

I check out several other polling stations in Baltimore and they are packed. Go back in the late afternoon and crowds have slowed. People got out early.

Stop by NAACP headquarters to view their war-room. The nation’s oldest civil rights organization has hotline setup to report voting irregularities around the state. Lots of calls coming in from the Milwaukee and Cleveland areas.

Kwiesi Mfume, CEO NAACP, seems confident that President Bush will not win (7:25 PM).

Mfume is also confident that the investigation by the IRS will not deter the NAACP from speaking out.

My wife asks, “Who do you think will win?” I remind her that US history has never turned out a president during war time. This would be remarkable if it happens.

Early returns shows Bush is leading in the south and the heartland having secured states he won in the past. An early blip says the race in Virginia is close than it goes red. No one wants to call Pennsylvania, Ohio, and Florida. Reports say they will keep some polls open longer in these battle grounds. Wondering if this is a sign that the election will turn.

There are lot of red states on the board and few blue. The President has the south, and the center. The coasts however have more people.

At 12:30 I’m on election overload and I’ve got to do an interview at 7:30 am. I go to bed without knowing what has happen.

The Final Days

2004-10-29T13:34:00.000-04:00

Checked out the debate between Barrack Obama and Alan Keyes debate on C-Span. Keyes is out of his league and has no clue as to what is going on in Illinois.

The ads are getting nasty. The reference to wolves in the GOP TV ads border on desperation. The ostrich and eagle from the Dems is confusing. Are the Dems the eagle or the ostrich?

The legal battles in Florida and Ohio are going to get nasty. By the way what happened to nearly 50,000 absentee ballots sent out in Broward County that weren’t received?

Drove to Philly (10/26/04) for a funeral. Got lost in north Philly and was surprised to see how diverse the electorate was on the presidential race. Drove down one street and there were an equal number of signs for both candidates.
Punched up WDAS-FM in Philly and was amazed at the dueling radio ads. The first ad I heard was from the Democratic Party urging voters to go the polls on Election Day. Following that ad was a commercial talking about how John Kerry was for gay marriage and abortion. I kept wondering do Black folks in Philly buy this. If it is this bad in Philly what’s happening in Pittsburgh.
It looks like the October Surprise has arrived. Report in New York Times says thousands of tons of explosive material missing in Iraq, to ad insult Osama bin Laden Tape appears. I believe these events are significant, but have no barring on the outcome of the race.
Early voting in Florida appears huge. A large voter turnout bodes well for democrats

The long day’s journey into night.

2004-10-09T13:30:00.000-04:00

I know many of you have been asking when I was going to update the blog…well some of us have to work…and that’s what I’ve been doing over the last month.

Let me address the two debates I promised to comment on.

The Vice Presidential Debates

The mantra for Republicans comes from the musical “The Wiz.” If you remember from the movie staring Diane Ross, Michael Jackson, and Richard Pryor the Wiz had infamous line in that movie,"Don’t bring me no bad news.” Dick Cheney has perfected this to high art. I questioned his answer to question regarding whether he had ever meet Senator John Kerry. Yea, you both were seated next to each other at a Prayer Breakfast.

Lastly, I was hoping Gwen Ifill would have founded a better questioned to ask the candidates relating to the Black Community other than the plight of AIDS in the African-American Community, especially the high number of women with the disease. “Gwen, I wasn’t aware of that and I don’t have a comment,” said Vice President Chenney.

Senators Edwards comment was patronizing then insightful.

The question I thought would have been more appropriate for both should have gone like this. “Gentleman, statistics show that America will be browning (racially diverse) in the five to ten years. One party appears to want to go back to a time when we were monolithic, the other wants to be all things to all people. Can you talk about your parties efforts to reach out to minorities, and how and should your organizations change to reflected the varied opinions that may be opposed to your core values?

The question is long but the answers would have been insightful.

The winner----a tie.

The Town Hall Debate.

“Mr. Bush, can you tell us time when you may have made a mistake and what you did to correct it.” Talk about a softball waiting to be served up. President Bush kept on message and refused to entertain this question other than to say, “I wished I had picked some different nominees.

The abortion questioned to Kerry was telling and an indicator of the Senators problem. No concrete answer and a lot of wavering. The American electorate likes decisive answers. He wavered and left the door open for the President. “No, I believe abortion is wrong.”

The President, who’s earlier performance had befuddled those watching, was in command and appeared stern and looked like the commander in chief. He drove home his change in outlook after 9-11.

The winner Bush.

Last Man Standing

The conventional wisdom is the last debate would have the fewest viewers. I believe the numbers will show all three debates had a high interest among potential voters.

The ‘one on one’ format I believe is the best for significant dialogue. Kerry needed to “bring it,” and he did. It was clever how he called the president a lair without actually saying it.

“He’s wrong, he voted for the war and against war, which one was it,” said the President. Okay, you’ve said this several times and I for am getting tiered of this. What else you got?

The most telling question was the one about being gay. Kerry’s usage of Dick Cheney’s daughter was appropriate because it highlighted the hypocrisy of the Republican stance.

Winner Kerry

Presidential Debate, What did we learn ?

2004-10-03T09:03:00.000-04:00

Who won? Who lost? Who got a bounce?

Typical questions with varied answers depending on the spin. What was more telling is what we learned. For those of the "darker persuasion" the answers to the question about Sudan was telling. "No I don't think we should send troops," said Kerry and President Bush, chimed in "I agree with the senator." This deserved a pointed follow-up from Jim Leher. The question should have related to U. S. pre-emptive strategy currently being employed. Doesn't that nation fit the criteria.

Influence from Islamic radicals, genocide, rogue regime, and countless other euphemism that were laid out before the invasion of Iraq. If you're a student of the diaspora the track record of the African Union military force is abysmal (Liberia, Angola, Congo and numerous other countries where these forces have tried to broker piece are littered with problems).

It's telling that marginalization is employed by both sides. Did I miss something, they both agreed that there is genocide going on Sudan. That's grounds for starting a World War (wasn't that case when Germany killed millions of Jews). An African genocide is "just like those spooks, a bunch of jungle bunnies." Give me a break. Let's hope the next debate puts a bit more meat on the bones and not a bunch of slogans.

Now for what you really want. John Kerry won the debate. Yea, he look presidential but he finally had an answer for the most persistent question, "Why did you vote to authorize the war?" While not perfect, it was a comeback. When playing the dozens its better to have comeback.

President was clear loser. All those rules about no cutaways (camera showing your opponent listening) were thrown out the window, and now we see why the Republicans were so oppose to the idea. Temperament is a quality we want to see in a president and it was on full view.

Who got the bounce, Kerry. He had something substantive to talk about. Now the debate turns to domestic issues his strong suit. Kerry watchers will talk about beating up the president on jobs and the economy. Better find something else to talk about other than taxes even if its about the wealthy. Taxing the rich works well in the Black community, but smells like day old fish in the white community.

Lastly there have been a series of report that have bubbling through regarding Black voter registration and suppression. This week is the last week to sign up new voters. Polls aren't taking into account that minority voter registration has put strains voter registrars. Various groups are hitting the street. I applaud these efforts, but remember it's not just signing up people get them to the polls on elections day.

Sourer observations include a move by Ken Blackwell (Black Republican) to have only a specific type of paper in Ohio to be used for voter registration. My friends in Florida you are facing insurmountable challenges to change the outcome in that state. "Don't go for the okie-doke." Voter intimidation in the Sunshine State will be in full effect. Remind those first time voters if they are turned away to ask for a "provisional ballot." These votes are held until it is determine you legality to vote.

Michigan (especially Detroit) the GOP is looking to suppress your large voter turnouts be vigilant.

Maryland and California be prepared for potential snafus in electronic voting. Virginia the race is a lot closer than the polls say. South Carolina keep pushing get your people to the polls.

What's up with Rev. Jesse Jackson becoming an adviser to Kerry Campaign. The Reverands still got some juice, Jesse should have found someone new to energize the youth "hip hop vote."

Next a review from Gwen Ifill's hosting of the Vice Presidential Debate.

A Presidential Perspective I

2004-09-26T18:03:00.000-04:00

When I intially wrote this (7/10/04) my editors told me I couldn't publish this item because it was controversial. They told me as a journalist I couldn't give names. I've always tried to give honest assessments of the Black Political Process because few do. Check it out and then view Presidential Perspective II which was sanitized. Guest what? My editors thought that was too controversail. You be the judge and tell me which one you like.

The ultimate horse race of the year is apparently set. The Republicans have their standard barer and Senator John Kerry has picked Senator John Edwards as his running mate. Does anybody see anything wrong with this picture? Look real close and you will note that there is an absence of color, gender and that so called mosaic that we call America.

Can only white men offer solutions to the myriad of problems facing the United States? I doubt it. The citizenry needs to get over it’s obsession with the patriarchal society. Let’s get some new ideas into the mix in both parties. I for one am getting tired of the also rans in either party. Electibility seems to be this year’s mantra. Whoever wins this year’s Presidential election should end the stranglehold of "Caucasian men only" for the top office in the land.

By the time 2008 comes around new names need to emerge who will break the mold in both parties. Conventional wisdom will tell you that money is the key to launching a national campaign. I’ve argue that ideas are the capital that will sway the electorate. These new national names don’t have to be at the top of the ticket, but need to "be in the mix" when it comes time to select a vice president.

Jesse and Al please stay home, your time has come and gone we need new blood to rally behind. In the GOP, Alan Keyes, go get a real job. We are into our third generation of politicians. Brothers and sisters permeate every stratum of politics and business. Few will volunteer to run so I’ve drafted potential people who have varied experiences to run for the highest office.

As I see it there are four categories from which to pick.

1.) Career politicians – noted for their current and previous experience in political office.

Democrats

Alexis Herman – Former Labor Secretary – strength is she knows Black America and would give Black women something to rally behind.

Togo West – Former Secretary of Army – strength military background an important commodity in an era global terrorism.

Tennessee Congressman Harold Ford, Jr. – one of the outspoken critics of the house who will join with republicans on some issues. Ford thinks outside the box.

Detroit Mayor Kwame Kilpatrick – he’s America’s "hip-hop mayor" who can roll with the punches. Last year there was a black out in Motown, people didn’t riot because the mayor told residents to chill with barbeques and candle-lit dinners.

Marc Morial – Urban League President – The former mayor of New Orleans has made the Urban League a strong political and vocal force in the African-American community. President Bush appears to favor the Urban League over the NAACP to speak, but he gets the same message when he’s in a private room with Morial.

Barack Obama - Initially when I wrote this he wasn't on this list. After interviewing him at the DNC and seeing his speech in Boston I can honestly say he is the real deal. I know he frieghtens Republicans and emblodens Democrats. In four years he will have worked in the U.S. Senate (trust me, he will win in Illinois) and that gives him clout. He's is a coalition builder and would shake up this nation.

Republican

Joe Rogers (Former Colorado Lt. Governor) – A back to basics politician. Rogers is tough on crime and punishment. He championed education when few in his own party would.

Michael Steele (Maryland, Lt. Governor) – Who would have thought that the first black elected statewide in Maryland would be a Republican? Steele has kept his roots in the Black community which would serve him well in a national campaign.

2.) Business – proven themselves in marketing their companies not just to the African-American community.

Democrats

Kenneth Chenault (President & COO, American Express) – in the business world he is a genius. If you own their stock you should thank Chenault. With its multitude of services and products he could maximize government and its services.

Sylvia Rhone (CEO, Electra Entertainment Group) – Rhone has it all beauty, brain and brawn. She can look at the big picture and create a strategic plan that will make improvements.
Earl Graves (CEO, Black Enterprise) – he’s trumpeted solutions in the pages of his magazine so let’s give him a shot (Steve Forbes, Forbes Magzine, thought he knew how to be president).

Republican

Joshua Smith (Pres. Maxima Corp.) – Smith has been ahead of the technology curve for years. Let’s take some of that talent and put it to good use.

3.) Academia/Non Traditional Jobs – These are people who’ve reached the zenith of their chosen professions and are looking for new challenges.

Dr. Ruth Brown (President, Brown University) – Dr. Brown has been breaking down barriers all her life and this would be the ultimate challenge.

Donna Brazile (Former Al Gore Campaign manager) – Brazile is the ultimate democratic operative. She’s setup her own consulting business and has a book. Isn’t that how most politicians start a campaign?

Rev. Floyd Flake (Allen A.M.E Church) - Left congress and returned to the pulpit. His church in Jamaica, New York not only preaches the gospel, but self help. Democrats and Republicans recognize how effective he is in community building.

4.) Unknown Quotient – They are loud, bodacious, and unconventional. They reach a constituency few people tap into on a regular basis and could challenge any traditional party leader.

Democrat

Shoshana Johnson – America’s first celebrated Black Female P.O.W. – War hero, single mom, she’s got something to say.

Russell Simmons- Co-Founder of Def Jam Records and founder of Rush Communications - Simmons introduced rap music and hip-hop culture to mainstream America. Let’s see if he can run a country.

Sean Combs – CEO, Bad Boy Entertainment – The ultimate producer of hype. He could fire up the hip-hop nation. Talk about fundraising all he would need is a tour.

Republican

Jim Brown – Activist – Brown has been challenging the status quo since his days as football player when he was re-writing records. No need for additional security his advocacy for former gang members has endured him to a population that needs a voice.

I’m quite certain that my list may not measure up to your own personal choices, but let’s not wait until 2008. If you want add some names I missed have at it, post them on this blog.

Now that you've taken the time to check out this one try Presidential Perspective II

A Presidential Perspective II

2004-09-26T17:45:00.000-04:00

When I initally wrote this my editors thought I was going off the deepend. So I created this tamer version. If you're reading this for the first time go back to Presidential Perspective I.
I orginally wrote this back on July 15, 2004. I've share this with friends who found it facinating. Here goes !!!

The ultimate horse race of the year is apparently set. The Republicans have their standard barer and Senator John Kerry has picked Senator John Edwards as his running mate. Does anybody see anything wrong with this picture? Look real close and you will note that there is an absence of color, gender and that so called mosaic that we call America.
Can only white men offer solutions to the myriad of problems facing the United States? I doubt it. The citizenry needs to get over it’s obsession with the patriarchal society. Let’s get some new ideas into the mix in both parties. I for one am getting tired of the also rans in either party. Electibility seems to be this year’s mantra. Whoever wins this year’s Presidential election should end the stranglehold of "Caucasian men only" for the top office in the land.
By the time 2008 comes around new names need to emerge who will break the mold in both parties. Conventional wisdom will tell you that money is the key to launching a national campaign. I’ve argue that ideas are the capital that will sway the electorate. These new national names don’t have to be at the top of the ticket, but need to "be in the mix" when it comes time to select a vice president.

Jesse and Al please stay home, your time has come and gone we need new blood. In the GOP, Alan Keyes, go get a real job. We are into our third generation of politicians. Brothers and sisters permeate every stratum of politics and business. As I see it there are four categories from which to pick.

1.) Career politicians – noted for their current and previous experience in political office.

2.) Business – proven themselves in marketing their companies not just to the African-American community.

3.) Academia/Non Traditional Jobs – These are people who’ve reached the zenith of their chosen professions and are looking for new challenges.

4.) Unknown Quotient – They are loud, bodacious, and unconventional. They reach a constituency few people tap into on a regular basis and could challenge any traditional party leader

Visualize with me several fictional characters that have various characteristics from the above categories. They may peak the electorates interest and more importantly your interest. As a disclaimer any resemblance to any real person is purely co-incidental.

Ms. I Got What it Takes - Ms. Takes is a second generational civil rights advocate free from any scandal. She's paid her dues by advocating for education. This woman has put her own money up to create experimental schools that are affordable. She's taken this private company public and has become the darling of Wall Street. Fortune 500 companies frequently ask her to speak. Her favorite quote is "the next civil rights battle won't be in the street but for economic survial."

Mr. Don't Look at Me as a Black Man - Mr. Black Man was a close personal friend of Reginald Lewis and took to heart the title of his biography "Why Should White Guys Have All the Fun." He currently works for a Fortune 500 company. Well compensate by his firm he has no desire to jump into poltics, however after assessing the field of potential candidates for 2008 he believes he has to jump into the fray. It won’t be easy because his counterparts will besmirch his reputation as a beneficary of "Affirmative Action."

Mr. Who Says I Can't Run - Mr. Can't Run has re-written the shoe business. Run has been able to outfit rappers, moviestars, politicains and the general public in his personalized gear. Every new product is anticipate with the zeal of a movie premiere. His ability to tap into popular culture has made him a spokesperson for the under 25 generation. On a dare an established politician challenges Mr. Can't Run to run for president.

Rev. Ms. Lord Have Mercy - Rev. Mercy has shunned the televangilist route to preach her sermons but is good friends with T.D. Jakes and others of the cloth. She gains addtioanl crebibility because of her service in the military on the front lines in Iraq. Her church located in Detriot draws stars like Aretha Franklin, Anita Baker, Beyonce Knowles, and Condaleece Rice. The congreation's mantra is "You Go Girl." She's registered over a million single mothers and they have drafted her to run for president.

Mr. G.O.P Brother - Mr. Brother is the equivalent of Ralph Ellision's, Invisble Man. He's sat in on every major decision made by Republican Presidents since the 1980 and no one knew he was in the room. Brother attends an A.M.E. church in Prince Georges County which has kept him grounded. At the urging of Colin Powell he takes to the road helping young brothers in trouble get their G.E.D. and start them in business. His tour becomes a crusade to run for President.

Where are these fictional characters ? Some are composites of people I believe should consider running in 2008. You may have a different opinion. Now you have a chance to voice that opinion by writing here. For the uninitiated you have to create an online name (something close to your personality).

Thanks for listening and hearing my musings.

Black Republicans Trying to Find Hip-Hop

2004-09-07T13:15:00.000-04:00

Can the genre associated with urban youth co-exist with the GOP? Not in this lifetime. Black Republicans may not get the language, the attitude, and the style, but they aren’t immune from the music. It’s a bit strange to see a Black Republicans “thro-in-it up” and doing the “lean back.” It’s out of ordinary to watch traditional Republicans "gettin down" with the newest star of the party, Lieutenant Governor Michael Steele, at the 40-40 Club in Lower Manhattan. Steele invited his colleagues from the conservative wing of Maryland’s Republican Party to the event. Talk about fish out of water. “What’s that music they’re playing?” was heard by many of the lighter persuasion. Maryland State Senator Alex Mooney, who is as conservative as they come, was shooting pool in a backroom. He looked like an extra in the movie Scarface. (FYI, there was a poster of Tony Montana in a nearby room.)

Faces spotted in the crowd include New York Post Conservative Columnist, Robert George, Joe Phillips ( NPR’s Tavis Smiley Show Political Commentator), Regan Hooper (Steele Press Secretary), BET Reporters, Andre Showell and Stephanie Frederick, “Lazee” Lamont King of the Russ Parr Morning Show, and Comedian Cheryl Underwood.

King from the Russ Parr Show was amazed by the whole surrealism of the convention. “It’s very dull and staged (the convention). The protesters aren’t given even 30 seconds to protest. You’ve got the city on virtual lockdown. It’s different.” He compared his impressions of Black Republicans as “two sides to a coin.” According to him they were “either old and detached or young and out of touch.”

So where were the Hip-Hop Kings of New York? The only one to show his face was Shawn “P-Diddy” Combs, sporting a Mohawk hair cut (must be for a movie he’s shooting). He made the rounds of each network on Thursday promoting his “Vote or Die” campaign. The campaign kicked off in Boston during the Democratic Convention and will feature prominent artists wearing the t-shirts (50 Cent, and Queen Latifah just to name a few). During an interview with Bill O’Reilly, the conservative talk show host, Rielly tried to bait Combs into becoming a Republican.

“So let me get this, your mother raised you, kept you out of trouble, no one has ever given you a handout and you started your company on your own,” says O’Reilly, “So why aren’t you a Republican?” Puff Daddy responds, “Nah, we’re just an independent organization trying to awaken a sleeping giant.” Combs hands the host a t-shirt and is off to his next television interview. FYI, I bought one of the shirts in New York. It set me back $30.

In Harlem, Russell Simmons’ Phat Farm has taken out a huge billboard promoting hip-hop and voting. But on the street level the message and slogans are being squeezed by a skeptical audience.

Nov Felder, a street bookseller in Harlem, cut right to the chase, “’Vote or Die’ is a slogan and we have to educate our people so they will know what they are voting for…we need some kind of voter union to make sure our vote isn’t wasted.” Shauntay William, a New York actress, got the symbolism in the slogan. “If you think about it (the slogan) is right, if you go to war, you die.”

One thing is for certain, hip is about the only thing that young Black Republicans can look for in hip hop for the time being.

Lastly, there was the unlikely citing of Andre “Andre 3000” Benjamin of Outkast. He was interviewed outside the lock-up area for protesters. When asked why he was there, “One of my interns went down to the march and was arrested and I came to get him out.” What happened to the time when artist went to jail on principle and interns watched? It seems that infamous folk song has come to life, “The times are a changin.”

What's Up with Pastor Donnie McClurkin

2004-09-02T03:24:00.000-04:00

Donnie McClurkin’s Coming Out Party

As I told you in my first blog I would try to get at the heart of Pastor Donnie McClurkin's conversion to "hetero-sexuality and the so call 'gay curse. '" I had the best opportunity to get the answer at Wednesday's morning's GOPAC Prayer breakfast hosted by former Republican Congressman J. C. Watts. As I proceed to go ask the singer some questions I was stopped by his publicist Irma Byrd who told be that pastor has decided not to do any more press in lieu of some recent bad publicity. When I asked her to clarify she made reference to a comment in the Style Section of the Washington Post. McClurkins sexual conversion isn't new news. Two years ago he came clean with his conversion saying he was sexually molested as a child by a relative.

Ms. Byrd who was adamant about keeping me away suggested that "there were too many questions about why he was coming and who invited him." As I probed a bit more the publicist point blank told me "the republicans invited and the democrats didn't call." Does this mean that he supports the Republicans? Does he even vote? That answer may not be forth coming.

"We just think doing print is wrong for McClurkin because they will edit what he says"...Da. "We might consider doing live television because that way no one can edit what you say." When pressed more about television he has done she mentioned Tavis Smiley's Show and a UPN Show. I know for a fact he's done CBN and CTN, two Christian networks.
I explained that I was working for MBC Network (soon to be named the Black Family Channel). "Sorry we're just not doing any taped interviews."

Literally, 15 minutes later McClurkin comes outside the breakfast and sees a white reporter (who I believed worked for CBN) and gave her an interview. What's wrong with that picture?

I have nothing wrong with Christian singers and those who are devoted religious people, but if you're going to step out on issues of faith and want the rest of Black America to go with you and not be questioned you will sadly be mistaken. I understand that Pastor McClurkin "ministers to people via song but blind faith is what got the Nazi's in trouble. Ministers and singers can positons on a wide variety of issues including faith. Know that "the lord don't like ugly."

....we fall down, but we get up.......

Swing for the Fence

2004-09-02T03:19:00.000-04:00

Charles Robinson III

With the floor packed Maryland Lieutenant Governor Michael Steele Tuesday night answered the challenge from the Republican Party leadership, redefine Black Republicans. In a speech laced with metaphors and ante dotes Steel was able to mesmerized Black delegates, but failed to create any long term attention span for most white delegates on the floor. The lead-up to the speech probably created some unrealistic expectations and unfair comparisons to Barack Obama’s speech at the Democratic Convention. In private conversations with the Lieutenant Governor he confided he felt matching that speech word for word was a little over the top. Some of the poignant moments form the speech included the reference to his mother, “Mabel Turner always saw the hope that her kids would be better off then she was. And she channeled her hope for that legacy. Today Mabel Turner has a daughter who’s an accomplished pediatrician and a son who is the Lieutenant Governor of Maryland.”

Where the governor went off the proverbial “reservation,” were his references to John Kerry. It is the Republican National Convention and bashing Kerry has been a theme that has run through every speaker. Steele would have been better served if he offer an “invitation” to people of color to re-examine there own personal political views. Predictably, those in the Blacks in the crowd saw the speech in glowing terms as evident by the comments from Jacqueline Gordon of Bowie, Maryland, “This is a new day, Black Republicans have come of age.”

But it was the comments of Joseph Phillips, actor turn political commentator, that were a bit more cautious. “It (African-Americans becoming Republicans) is not going to happen overnight, but Black people are already considering it. Polls are showing Black people are leaving the Democratic Party, but there not flocking in large numbers to the Republican Party.” The work the party has to do is massive. They will have to find issues that click and make sense. Bashing the Democrats is not the answer.

Lastly while listening to the speech on the floor and doing interviews a crew from the History Channel started asking me questions about African-Americans and the GOP. For those of you who know me…they got a candid and blunt discussion about Black Republicans. The segment, if it doesn’t end up on the cutting room floor will air this Friday, September 3, 2004, 7 pm.

In the next installment Black Republicans and faith, and gay marriage the wedge issue that could pose a problem for church going African-Americans.

How Many Black Republicans Can You Fix Into One Room?

2004-09-01T05:44:00.000-04:00

If you answered “not many” you would be absolutely correct. BAMPAC (Black America’s Political Action Committee) is charged with finding and delivering qualified candidates of the “darker persuasion.” It’s difficult but not necessarily impossible; especially at a reception Monday at the W Hotel in Midtown Manhattan. For some working the crowd it was chance to share success and challenges. They come from varied places Texas, Indianapolis, North Carolina and New Hampshire (I didn’t know there was a mass of Black Humanity in the New England State). The mantra from the success stories seems to be communication. “You’ve got to go into communities and talk to people,” according to Mayor Yvonne Brown of Tchula, Mississippi. Convincing African-Americans to listen is difficult. Personal relationships are different. There is an air of compatibility when you talk to someone with out the baggage of party.While BAMPAC has attracted major white donors they haven’t translated that into a real ground swell of support in the Black community. When you look at the supporters and founders of the political action committee some are lightening rods with negatives rivaling President George Bush. Included in that group are Armstrong Williams, Allen Keyes, and Jackie Cissell. What was interesting at this event is the new breed of GOP supporter. They are young, confident in their Blackness and yearning for acceptance beyond the party apparatus. Yes they are conservative and may be closer to “compassionate conservative” than the president. So who are some these new individuals. People like Joseph Phillips (you know him from the Cosby Show character Navy Lt. Martin Kendall) a frequent commentator on the Tavis Smiley Show; Alvin Williams the CEO of BAMPAC and more importantly the brother of Armstrong Williams; and Olga Morgan Wright of North Carolina who bucked the Democratic trend in the Tar Heel state and is running for the House of Representatives.One of the oddities spotted at this event was Washington, DC Mayor Anthony Williams. Williams has been challenged at home for his pro-republican stance on school vouchers. He sums up his support for this issue as standing up for the District of Columbia. “We need to have Black people in both parties,” according to his honor.One of the biggest disappoints for Black Women of the GOP was cancellation of the Black Women International Minority Forum and Reception Honoring Minorities in Business. “What’s up with that?”The major flap over Maryland's Governor Bob Erhlich’s comment calling the Maryland Democrats racist because they blindly take black vote for granted was a low point. I asked Lieutenant Governor Michael Steele his interpretation of the morning address by the governor and was literally stunned when he agreed. He framed the comment in these terms, “the last time I check the schools (Baltimore) were failing, the two populus ares of the state had the highest unemployment rates, and there was little creation of jobs.”Tomorrow get ready for reaction to Steele’s speech and the reaction.

Black and Republican, Oxymoron or a new reality

2004-08-30T10:05:00.000-04:00

As the National Republican Convention gets set to kicked off in New York this morning, African-American Delegates are determine not be an afterthought in the GOP. For the first time in years the cries of help from Black delegates are being heeded by the party leadership, and not just with lip service. To understand how far Black GOP members have come, look back to 2000. Only 6 percent of the delegates were Black. This year they make up 17 percent which is a new critical mass that can not be shoved aside.Many of those are elected officials who have proven that your Blackness doesn’t have to be set aside in order to be a member of the GOP. Most are conservative when it comes to social policy, but these traditional values in Black faith based community.On the eve of the opening of the RNC many of those who are considered a pariah in their communities find commonality here. They gathered at the Museum of the of City New York Sunday night in the heart of Black New York, Harlem. Roy Innis, Congress of Racial Equality, played host to those who were looking for others who champion Republican themes. Nearly three hundred filled an auditorium to here from speakers. The gathering was charged up by Maryland Lieutenant Governor Michael Steele. “The Republican Party may have left us, but we never left it and now we’re repairing that relationship.” Joanne Fisher of Prince Georges County, Maryland was there with her daughter who took time off from serving in the military to see the GOP Convention. “I think if the Republicans would just go into Black communities and talk about what they have done, it could change attitudes.” That message has fallen on deaf ears because of rigid stances on affirmative action and a GOP dislike of civil rights issues. “They got to come and listen if they (Republicans) want to be taken seriously,” according to Fisher.Lieutenant Governor Steele says the party needs to tell its own story and not have it told by Democrats. That may be fine, but many gathered in the room needed to get one item correct before they start preaching to the masses. During this event the assembled were asked to sing the “Negro National Anthem” (Life E’vry Voice). There was difficulty remembering the words and despite a comment by Niger Innis, the son of Roy Innis, that white folks in the audience would get crib sheet the next time… Black Republicans need to learn the words also.There was also a bit of star watching at the event with Boxing Promoter Don King in attendance. King has been a vocal supporter of the president. But the true star of the night appears to be Lt. Governor Steele. Just as Barack Obama emerged from the Democratic Convention in Boston with high hopes; so took are the expectations for Steele. In the next Blog, more on the Lieutenant Governor, and a preview of his speech on Tuesday night. Extra Special Donnie McClurkin’s conversion to heterosexuality and the “gay curse.” Why he’s sing before President Bush speaks.

Charles Black Politics Blog

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A Heavy Weight Debate

The Revolution Can Not Die: A Tribute to Gil Scott Heron

The Revolution Will Be Live

Top Ten Black News Stories 2010

Authenticity

Curious Case of Alvin Greene

Top News Stories of 2009

Michael Jackson and Black Politics

Can't Believe What's Happening

Change Works for GOP Too

The Journey of a Lifetime

That's the Ticket !

I Love You Back!

Mr. Obama Goes to Washington

Top Ten News Stories

Jackson Is Candidate 5

Ilinois Politics Affecting the President Elect

So I Won, and This Is What I Got!

What Have God Wrought?

OHIO

Problems and Calls

Election Day

What If He Loses?

You Can't Make This Stuff Up

Ugliness and Endorsements

Tsunami, Tidal Wave, or Implosion

October Surprise

VP Debate Analysis

The Debates

A Miracle Break

Are You Middle Class?

The MAC Attack

Filling In the Blanks

The Curious and Missing

Competing Images

Looking Through the Rearview Mirror

A Journey of a Life Time

Oh No He Didn't

Guilt by Association

DENVER is Chocolate City

IMHO

A Question of Faith

Mac and Hayes Influence on Politics

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Why Did Cardin Win?

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It's Over

The Day After

Election Day

The Final Days

The long day’s journey into night.

Presidential Debate, What did we learn ?

A Presidential Perspective I

A Presidential Perspective II

Black Republicans Trying to Find Hip-Hop

What's Up with Pastor Donnie McClurkin

Swing for the Fence

How Many Black Republicans Can You Fix Into One Room?

Black and Republican, Oxymoron or a new reality