Ladies and Gentlemen: the Daily Obama.

This is something I'm starting this week. I'm sure i'm the 193847595759th blogger to do this, and no, this doesn't necessarily mean that i'm definitely voting for the man, but I am very interested in tracking the journey of one of the first legitimate Black Presidential Candidates. My commentary is in italics, as with other posts. Click on the link to see actual video so that you're not on some "we don't believe you, you need more people."

http://wcbstv.com/topstories/local_story_071165711.html

CBS) NEW YORK--With the race for the Democratic presidential nomination already in high gear, the Reverend Al Sharpton jumped into the fray today with some tough criticism for Senator Barack Obama. The outspoken reverend offered the harsh comments to Obama just as he looked to build support for his candidacy in the black community.

"Why shouldn't the black community ask questions? Are we now being told, 'You all just shut up?'" Sharpton told CBS 2's Marcia Kramer Monday. "Senator Obama and I agree that the war is wrong, but then I want to know why he went to Connecticut and helped Lieberman, the biggest supporter of the war."

Sharpton also questioned why Obama supports "tort reform, which hurts police brutality victims."

What set Sharpton off was a published report that he is trying to hurt Obama's campaign because he's jealous. Sharpton says that claim is untrue, charging the story came from the Obama camp to pressure him into an early endorsement.

"I'm not going to be cajoled or intimidated by any candidate not for my support," Sharpton said.

Political pundits say Obama is anxious for Sharpton's support because it could hurt Hillary Clinton and help Obama raise money. "At this stage of the game, it's all about the money and I think you're going to see the candidates with the biggest fund raising making it through the end of the year," Political Consultant Joseph Mercurio said.

[pause] Let's be clear. I HIGHLY doubt Obama is thinkin about Sharpton like that. Sharpton, while a good spokesperson, and a good for calling people out on their BS, is unfortunately not in the "in crowd". He's no longer on the list of people you must cater to in order to win an election. [play button]

Does Sharpton's endorsement matter? CBS 2 polled some New Yorkers and the results were mixed, but the majority appeared to lean toward the side that believes Sharpton's endorsement will make a difference.

[pause] can i PLEASE answer this one? Naw playa. Sharpton's been real critical of Obama from day one, and in the Black community, Obama is surpassing Hilary so far, and that's sans a Sharpton endorsement. [play button]

Team Obama did not immediately return calls seeking comment. Sharpton says they reached out to him this morning, but he didn't take the call. He adds he won't make his endorsement until after his National Action Network summit next month. Obama, Clinton and other candidates are scheduled to attend.

All jokes aside, I think it's unfortunate that Sharpton is so critical of Obama so early on. It's not a good look. I'm almost inclined to say that this is a crabs-in-a-barrel issue, which is too bad. One more word, and Al Sharpton's gonna be soundin like this guy:







At the same time...maybe it wouldn't hurt for Obama to at least reach out to him. You know, to save face and hear him out. It's never a good look for two Black leaders to beef, whether it's one sided or not. A friend of mine pointed out that Sharpton simply doesn't understand what it takes to run for president in this country. In short, Obama can't cater to the Black community all while running for president--we're only 11 % of the population. I'm not sure if it's exactly that simple though; there's nothing wrong with supporting and speaking out about issues that effect the Black community--and yes, i DO think that healthcare, Iraq, social security, etc. are all things that in someway effect my community. But--unfortunately, things that DIRECTLY effect African Americans have to be at the bottom of the to-do list for Obama. What do you all think?