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Hillary's Amazing Grace with Religious Voters
Much has been said over the past few weeks about the fatal, tactical missteps made by Hillary Clinton's campaign. These include a troubling lack of caucus know-how, an overabundance of underestimating the competition, and shortsightedness in long-term planning for the primary season.
After tonight's Oregon primary, it seems likely that more autopsic observations such as these are in store for tomorrow. But if there is one component of Clinton's operation that does not deserve the label "pathological," it would be her religious outreach unit; it was one of the bright spots in an otherwise disappointing effort.
To begin with, we should recall that in 2008 Clinton was never burdened with a charge that dogged her in the early nineties. Namely, that she was some sort of godless radical feminist, out of touch with normal, church-going American folk.
Let me point out that it took Ms. Clinton years to neutralize this claim. For nearly a decade she has been signaling conspicuously to Americans that faith plays a central part in her life. This was evident in books such as It Takes A Village or Living History . Then there were those bi-partisan prayer sessions in the Senate, the Bible citations, and all that talk about "forgiveness."
Also impressive has been Clinton’s ability to juggle both secular and religious constituencies. Aware that the Big Secularism of previous (and failed) democratic presidential hopefuls was not a winner, she tamped down the Church/State themes so beloved to the Party.
Yet she did so without raising eyebrows among Defenders of the Wall (On this score, Senator Obama was less successful). Thus, at last month’s Compassion Forum she could deliver an extended homily on grace (as Methodists are wont to do) all the while acknowledging that God Talk might justifiably upset secular Americans.
But the most telling proof that Clinton's Faith and Values politicking worked was her ability to carry so many religious constituencies. The religious state-by-state exit-polling data at our disposal is somewhat unreliable and inconsistent, but three general observations seem warranted. The first is that she consistently won Catholics--often by large margins and in nearly all the delegate-rich states.
The second is that she scored steady, though not massive, victories among Jewish voters. This brings us to Protestants. In the absence of polls that distinguish between Mainliners and Evangelicals in all the contested states, it seems safe to say that she outperformed her opponent among White Protestants.
Obama, for his part, consistently beat her among those who described themselves as weekly or occasional church goers. The more a voter was committed to a house of worship, the more he or she gravitated to the Senator from Illinois. This is not good news for the McCain campaign.
The Clinton F and V team, needless to say, made mistakes as well. Tom Bevan writing for RealClearPolitics makes the case--a compelling one--that her strategists missed a huge opportunity:
Put simply, had Reverend Wright been introduced to voters a few days before the Iowa caucuses, odds are Barack Obama would not be a hair's breadth away from clinching the Democratic nomination for President of the United States. And even if we assume Obama could have managed to hang on and win Iowa after the appearance of his good reverend, which is debatable, it's a near certainty he would not have won as many primaries and caucuses by as many votes around the country as he did in January and February.
There is certainly something to this, though a few qualifiers are in order. It is debatable whether the Clinton folks, even if they actually recognized the electoral bonanza represented by Wright's oratory, could have done anything about it in the weeks before the January 3 Iowa Caucus.
Aside from the un-seasonal nature of running attack ads during the holidays, such a move would have risked alienating African-American voters. The latter, it may be recalled, were not yet sold on Senator Obama.
One might say that only the deus ex machina that was Fox News could have made Jeremiah Wright the sensation that he quickly became. And like so many others, Fox probably didn’t take this Obama guy seriously enough around Christmas time to devote air time to his cantankerous pastor.
Still, Bevan makes an important point about a major strategic blunder. Perhaps the blame lies more with her Opposition Research unit than the Faith and Values team.
In any case, all of America should thank the latter for letting Clinton be her calm self when doing God Talk. Imagine if they had goaded their low-key candidate to try and match her opponent's emotive power. Imagine if they instructed her to out-Obama Obama. Her handlers were smart enough to understand that when it comes to religious rhetoric few can match the very talented Senator from Illinois.
Watch Sally Quinn and I discuss today's primaries and evangelical, Catholic and Jewish voters.
(For more information about religion and the candidates check out Faith 2008 by the Berkley Center for Religion, Peace & World Affairs.)
By Jacques Berlinerblau |
May 20, 2008; 3:42 AM ET
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Posted by: Annie Sweetie Oakley | June 1, 2008 7:42 PM
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The democratic party has four main groups - the disenfranchised, black Americans, middle class catholics, and affluent liberals. The first three groups are fairly religious.
However, Mrs. Clinton geared her message to black Americans - she had a choice - emphasize a woman's right to choose or a weakening economy. She hit both themes but the right to choose resonates strongest with black Americans. By diverting time and energy into that message she wasn't able to establish early in her run that the country needed a near genius in the white house like herself. She reasoned since none of the other candidates were as bright as her therefore we need her. But she didn't make or wasn't able to make that case early on.
Now Mr. Obama and Mr. Romney are quite bright but they aren't at Mrs. Clinton's level. Since black Americans thought they had a choice they picked Mr. Obama just like Irish catholics picked JFK. She then changed her message and the facts on the ground started to cooperate with her - the economy does seem to be falling apart and now people are wondering maybe we do need her afterall - or do we need to change the law and let her husband be president again - because it seems neither one of the other two candidates are going to know or have the confidence to take the radical steps that are going to be needed to stop the bleeding - huge investments in renewal energy and transportation infrastructure plus higher taxes to save the dollar.
By the way I voted for Mrs. Clinton and I take my faith very seriously. Jacques - its more about economics, love of country, and applied ethics than it is about religious ideology. Note that no one is getting excited about gay marriage this time around. People may not like gays but they dislike going hungry a lot more.
Posted by: Jack | May 22, 2008 11:15 AM
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Do these polling numbers make sense?
Clinton won Catholics, (white) Protestants, and Jews. Okay. But "more a voter was committed to a house of worship, the more he or she gravitated to" Obama.
So is the interpretation here that Clinton wins the religious-but-not-very-serious-about-it, while Obama scores with both nonbelievers and strong believers? In other words, an atheist will start out supporting Obama. If he converts to Christianity, he'll become a Clinton supporter, but if he gets more into his church, he'll swing back to Obama? Or, to look at it the other way, a strong believer will start out as an Obama supporter, and if he loses a bit of his faith he'll support Clinton, but if if loses all of his faith he'll support Obama?
Either these polling numbers are wrong, or we're witnessing another polar phenomenon in politics, with people at the ends of the scale voting one way and people in the middle voting the opposite way. For example, high school dropouts and Ph.D.s tend to vote for Democrats, but people with just a four-year college education tend to vote for Republicans.
Posted by: Adam | May 22, 2008 10:08 AM
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Hillary Clinton thinks only of herself, as does her husband Bill. They actually believe they have a mortal right to the office of the presidency.
Posted by: Jackie Endres | May 22, 2008 8:06 AM
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It's exciting to see the candidates' competition to pick up the faith-based-nitwit vote now that Hillary's already won the competition for the white racist vote.
billm
Posted by: whm99 | May 22, 2008 7:32 AM
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Arrogance. Why do members of the establishment press always demonstrate such arrogance when talking about religious issues? Who is this professor to pass judgement on Hillary Clinton's campaign? Her blow out victories in bible belt states have obviously caused consternation among the religious right. She can still win the nomination despite arm chair political neophytes declaring her earlier losses fatal tactical missteps. She is obviously winning now. It is up to the Democratic Party to find a graceful way to ease Obama out. Why is her appeal growing? Maybe part of it has to do with the voters disenchantment with being told how to think by elitist and increasingly arrogant members of the professorial class. "God Talk" is something professors do; and, voters warmed up to Hillary despite the "God Talk" from the establishment press.
Posted by: Jonathan Richard | May 22, 2008 6:56 AM
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" ........ that she (Senator Clinton) consistently won Catholics ......"
She did not win this pro-life, Catholic's vote. Nor will any pro-choice candidate (including Republican Giuliani) ever receive my vote.
Democrats want my vote? Nominate a pro-life candidate such as former Pa. Gov. Casey (deceased).
Posted by: Dave | May 22, 2008 6:51 AM
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Your premise, as strong as it sounds in regards to Senator Clinton's inept campaign strategies fails the litmus test of accuracy in my opinion. A descriptive term that is clearer, for me at least, is betrayal. Her spiritual strength, which you have graciously elaborated has carried her through, and ennobled her constituency, the American people.
Senator Clinton has spent her entire political career beyond the scope of race, in support of the common man, as a leader of those who are gifted beyond ordinary measures. Inspiration, education, hard work, consensus, tactical skills,
diplomacy, are a few of the signature characteristics that she has consistently demonstrated in her work, to be betrayed in this Presidential campaign by those to whom she has provided the greatest assistance, the African Americans. For those like myself, who survived the political upheavals of the 60s, bridging racial, social, psychological, political, business, academic, religious, medical, etc. infrastructure from a post WWII era to a rapidly advancing global ecology, racism was instantly transformed into universal acceptance of all citizens as endowed with equal rights in the pursuit of life, liberty and happiness. Martin Luther King Jr.'s father was an acquaintance of my father's for years, and was provided many amenities by my father in an otherwise hostile community. Raised in a racially segregated domestic environment during an era when the KKK was still burning crosses to threaten support of continued segregation, leaving the South was primary on my short listed agenda. My father was uncertain where integration would lead, nevertheless neither threatened, sabotaged, nor turned away any African American seeking help.
Living in Los Angeles for 11 years until 2004, where illegal immigration currently overshadows drive-by shootings, and other illegal activities, African Americans, continuing beyond the riots of the early 1990s have rapidly integrated into the upper social, business, economic, political, etc. strata as in other major urban areas, such as Atlanta, New York, Boston, Chicago, Philadelphia, Washington, D.C., etc. Regressive political expediency however, on the part of the current African American Presidential candidate has excited old pangs of racism for apparent personal aggrandizement. Rhetorical sound bytes may entice those who dream dreams of political fortunes that provide wealth for the average man. "This too shall pass," as we are left with the everyday practicality of living in a country that is more racially separated now than at the beginning of the 2008 Presidential Campaign, by a man whose historical lineage within the US is short, and uncertain.
History will look back on this time as a reversibility cycle, perhaps. If we are fortunate as a nation to comprehend and understand the lessons, which are uncertain, other opportunities will likely appear in the future to unite us beyond the limitations of racial and otherwise political threats.
Posted by: David Hightower | May 22, 2008 2:17 AM
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Your premise, as strong as it sounds in regards to Senator Clinton's inept campaign strategies fails the litmus test of accuracy in my opinion. A descriptive term that is clearer, for me at least, is betrayal. Her spiritual strength, which you have graciously elaborated has carried her through, and ennobled her constituency, the American people.
Senator Clinton has spent her entire political career beyond the scope of race, in support of the common man, as a leader of those who are gifted beyond ordinary measures. Inspiration, education, hard work, consensus, tactical skills,
diplomacy, are a few of the signature characteristics that she has consistently demonstrated in her work, to be betrayed in this Presidential campaign by those to whom she has provided the greatest assistance, the African Americans. For those like myself, who survived the political upheavals of the 60s, bridging racial, social, psychological, political, business, academic, religious, medical, etc. infrastructure from a post WWII era to a rapidly advancing global ecology, racism was instantly transformed into universal acceptance of all citizens as endowed with equal rights in the pursuit of life, liberty and happiness. Martin Luther King Jr.'s father was an acquaintance of my father's for years, and was provided many amenities by my father in an otherwise hostile community. Raised in a racially segregated domestic environment during an era when the KKK was still burning crosses to threaten support of continued segregation, leaving the South was primary on my short listed agenda. My father was uncertain where integration would lead, nevertheless neither threatened, sabotaged, nor turned away any African American seeking help.
Living in Los Angeles for 11 years until 2004, where illegal immigration currently overshadows drive-by shootings, and other illegal activities, African Americans, continuing beyond the riots of the early 1990s have rapidly integrated into the upper social, business, economic, political, etc. strata as in other major urban areas, such as Atlanta, New York, Boston, Chicago, Philadelphia, Washington, D.C., etc. Regressive political expediency however, on the part of the current African American Presidential candidate has excited old pangs of racism for apparent personal aggrandizement. Rhetorical sound bytes may entice those who dream dreams of political fortunes that provide wealth for the average man. "This too shall pass," as we are left with the everyday practicality of living in a country that is more racially separated now than at the beginning of the 2008 Presidential Campaign, by a man whose historical lineage within the US is short, and uncertain.
History will look back on this time as a reversibility cycle, perhaps. If we are fortunate as a nation to comprehend and understand the lessons, which are uncertain, other opportunities will likely appear in the future to unite us beyond the limitations of racial and otherwise political threats.
Posted by: Neal Hightower | May 22, 2008 2:12 AM
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Your premise, as strong as it sounds in regards to Senator Clinton's inept campaign strategies fails the litmus test of accuracy in my opinion. A descriptive term that is clearer, for me at least, is betrayal. Her spiritual strength, which you have graciously elaborated has carried her through, and ennobled her constituency, the American people.
Senator Clinton has spent her entire political career beyond the scope of race, in support of the common man, as a leader of those who are gifted beyond ordinary measures. Inspiration, education, hard work, consensus, tactical skills,
diplomacy, are a few of the signature characteristics that she has consistently demonstrated in her work, to be betrayed in this Presidential campaign by those to whom she has provided the greatest assistance, the African Americans. For those like myself, who survived the political upheavals of the 60s, bridging racial, social, psychological, political, business, academic, religious, medical, etc. infrastructure from a post WWII era to a rapidly advancing global ecology, racism was instantly transformed into universal acceptance of all citizens as endowed with equal rights in the pursuit of life, liberty and happiness. Martin Luther King Jr.'s father was an acquaintance of my father's for years, and was provided many amenities by my father in an otherwise hostile community. Raised in a racially segregated domestic environment during an era when the KKK was still burning crosses to threaten support of continued segregation, leaving the South was primary on my short listed agenda. My father was uncertain where integration would lead, nevertheless neither threatened, sabotaged, nor turned away any African American seeking help.
Living in Los Angeles for 11 years until 2004, where illegal immigration currently overshadows drive-by shootings, and other illegal activities, African Americans, continuing beyond the riots of the early 1990s have rapidly integrated into the upper social, business, economic, political, etc. strata as in other major urban areas, such as Atlanta, New York, Boston, Chicago, Philadelphia, Washington, D.C., etc. Regressive political expediency however, on the part of the current African American Presidential candidate has excited old pangs of racism for apparent personal aggrandizement. Rhetorical sound bytes may entice those who dream dreams of political fortunes that provide wealth for the average man. "This too shall pass," as we are left with the everyday practicality of living in a country that is more racially separated now than at the beginning of the 2008 Presidential Campaign, by a man whose historical lineage within the US is short, and uncertain.
History will look back on this time as a reversibility cycle, perhaps. If we are fortunate as a nation to comprehend and understand the lessons, which are uncertain, other opportunities will likely appear in the future to unite us beyond the limitations of racial and otherwise political threats.
Posted by: Neal Hightower | May 22, 2008 2:10 AM
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Your premise, as strong as it sounds in regards to Senator Clinton's inept campaign strategies fails the litmus test of accuracy in my opinion. A descriptive term that is clearer, for me at least, is betrayal. Her spiritual strength, which you have graciously elaborated has carried her through, and ennobled her constituency, the American people.
Senator Clinton has spent her entire political career beyond the scope of race, in support of the common man, as a leader of those who are gifted beyond ordinary measures. Inspiration, education, hard work, consensus, tactical skills,
diplomacy, are a few of the signature characteristics that she has consistently demonstrated in her work, to be betrayed in this Presidential campaign by those to whom she has provided the greatest assistance, the African Americans. For those like myself, who survived the political upheavals of the 60s, bridging racial, social, psychological, political, business, academic, religious, medical, etc. infrastructure from a post WWII era to a rapidly advancing global ecology, racism was instantly transformed into universal acceptance of all citizens as endowed with equal rights in the pursuit of life, liberty and happiness. Martin Luther King Jr.'s father was an acquaintance of my father's for years, and was provided many amenities by my father in an otherwise hostile community. Raised in a racially segregated domestic environment during an era when the KKK was still burning crosses to threaten support of continued segregation, leaving the South was primary on my short listed agenda. My father was uncertain where integration would lead, nevertheless neither threatened, sabotaged, nor turned away any African American seeking help.
Living in Los Angeles for 11 years until 2004, where illegal immigration currently overshadows drive-by shootings, and other illegal activities, African Americans, continuing beyond the riots of the early 1990s have rapidly integrated into the upper social, business, economic, political, etc. strata as in other major urban areas, such as Atlanta, New York, Boston, Chicago, Philadelphia, Washington, D.C., etc. Regressive political expediency however, on the part of the current African American Presidential candidate has excited old pangs of racism for apparent personal aggrandizement. Rhetorical sound bytes may entice those who dream dreams of political fortunes that provide wealth for the average man. "This too shall pass," as we are left with the everyday practicality of living in a country that is more racially separated now than at the beginning of the 2008 Presidential Campaign, by a man whose historical lineage within the US is short, and uncertain.
History will look back on this time as a reversibility cycle, perhaps. If we are fortunate as a nation to comprehend and understand the lessons, which are uncertain, other opportunities will likely appear in the future to unite us beyond the limitations of racial and otherwise political threats.
Posted by: Neal Hightower | May 22, 2008 2:09 AM
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Your premise, as strong as it sounds in regards to Senator Clinton's inept campaign strategies fails the litmus test of accuracy in my opinion. A descriptive term that is clearer, for me at least, is betrayal. Her spiritual strength, which you have graciously elaborated has carried her through, and ennobled her constituency, the American people.
Senator Clinton has spent her entire political career beyond the scope of race, in support of the common man, as a leader of those who are gifted beyond ordinary measures. Inspiration, education, hard work, consensus, tactical skills,
diplomacy, are a few of the signature characteristics that she has consistently demonstrated in her work, to be betrayed in this Presidential campaign by those to whom she has provided the greatest assistance, the African Americans. For those like myself, who survived the political upheavals of the 60s, bridging racial, social, psychological, political, business, academic, religious, medical, etc. infrastructure from a post WWII era to a rapidly advancing global ecology, racism was instantly transformed into universal acceptance of all citizens as endowed with equal rights in the pursuit of life, liberty and happiness. Martin Luther King Jr.'s father was an acquaintance of my father's for years, and was provided many amenities by my father in an otherwise hostile community. Raised in a racially segregated domestic environment during an era when the KKK was still burning crosses to threaten support of continued segregation, leaving the South was primary on my short listed agenda. My father was uncertain where integration would lead, nevertheless neither threatened, sabotaged, nor turned away any African American seeking help.
Living in Los Angeles for 11 years until 2004, where illegal immigration currently overshadows drive-by shootings, and other illegal activities, African Americans, continuing beyond the riots of the early 1990s have rapidly integrated into the upper social, business, economic, political, etc. strata as in other major urban areas, such as Atlanta, New York, Boston, Chicago, Philadelphia, Washington, D.C., etc. Regressive political expediency however, on the part of the current African American Presidential candidate has excited old pangs of racism for apparent personal aggrandizement. Rhetorical sound bytes may entice those who dream dreams of political fortunes that provide wealth for the average man. "This too shall pass," as we are left with the everyday practicality of living in a country that is more racially separated now than at the beginning of the 2008 Presidential Campaign, by a man whose historical lineage within the US is short, and uncertain.
History will look back on this time as a reversibility cycle, perhaps. If we are fortunate as a nation to comprehend and understand the lessons, which are uncertain, other opportunities will likely appear in the future to unite us beyond the limitations of racial and otherwise political threats.
Posted by: Neal Hightower | May 22, 2008 2:08 AM
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Your premise, as strong as it sounds in regards to Senator Clinton's inept campaign strategies fails the litmus test of accuracy in my opinion. A descriptive term that is clearer, for me at least, is betrayal. Her spiritual strength, which you have graciously elaborated has carried her through, and ennobled her constituency, the American people.
Senator Clinton has spent her entire political career beyond the scope of race, in support of the common man, as a leader of those who are gifted beyond ordinary measures. Inspiration, education, hard work, consensus, tactical skills,
diplomacy, are a few of the signature characteristics that she has consistently demonstrated in her work, to be betrayed in this Presidential campaign by those to whom she has provided the greatest assistance, the African Americans. For those like myself, who survived the political upheavals of the 60s, bridging racial, social, psychological, political, business, academic, religious, medical, etc. infrastructure from a post WWII era to a rapidly advancing global ecology, racism was instantly transformed into universal acceptance of all citizens as endowed with equal rights in the pursuit of life, liberty and happiness. Martin Luther King Jr.'s father was an acquaintance of my father's for years, and was provided many amenities by my father in an otherwise hostile community. Raised in a racially segregated domestic environment during an era when the KKK was still burning crosses to threaten support of continued segregation, leaving the South was primary on my short listed agenda. My father was uncertain where integration would lead, nevertheless neither threatened, sabotaged, nor turned away any African American seeking help.
Living in Los Angeles for 11 years until 2004, where illegal immigration currently overshadows drive-by shootings, and other illegal activities, African Americans, continuing beyond the riots of the early 1990s have rapidly integrated into the upper social, business, economic, political, etc. strata as in other major urban areas, such as Atlanta, New York, Boston, Chicago, Philadelphia, Washington, D.C., etc. Regressive political expediency however, on the part of the current African American Presidential candidate has excited old pangs of racism for apparent personal aggrandizement. Rhetorical sound bytes may entice those who dream dreams of political fortunes that provide wealth for the average man. "This too shall pass," as we are left with the everyday practicality of living in a country that is more racially separated now than at the beginning of the 2008 Presidential Campaign, by a man whose historical lineage within the US is short, and uncertain.
History will look back on this time as a reversibility cycle, perhaps. If we are fortunate as a nation to comprehend and understand the lessons, which are uncertain, other opportunities will likely appear in the future to unite us beyond the limitations of racial and otherwise political threats.
Posted by: Neal Hightower | May 22, 2008 2:07 AM
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I distrust any politician who makes a public show of faith. Unfortunately, ever since Carter and Clinton, this seems to have become obligatory.
The public sphere should be neutral. Hillary's a Methodist; that's a particular version of Christianity that not even all Protestants share.
I'm afraid that all this talk of "faith" (remember when it was called "religion"?) promotes what Freud, a "godless Jew," called "magical thinking." Natural disasters are being attributed to God's wrath about homosexuality or abortion. Poor New Orleans, which was bound to be hit by a bad storm for climactic and geographical reasons, is blamed for its own destruction.
I get chain emails from my cousins which say, "pass this on and you'll be blessed." Utter superstition! A huge step backward for humanity!
To read about what Jefferson, Franklin and Madison had to say about different denominations and about the proper role of religion, read this:
Posted by: CVXH | May 22, 2008 2:06 AM
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Your premise, as strong as it sounds in regards to Senator Clinton's inept campaign strategies fails the litmus test of accuracy in my opinion. A descriptive term that is clearer, for me at least, is betrayal. Her spiritual strength, which you have graciously elaborated has carried her through, and ennobled her constituency, the American people.
Senator Clinton has spent her entire political career beyond the scope of race, in support of the common man, as a leader of those who are gifted beyond ordinary measures. Inspiration, education, hard work, consensus, tactical skills,
diplomacy, are a few of the signature characteristics that she has consistently demonstrated in her work, to be betrayed in this Presidential campaign by those to whom she has provided the greatest assistance, the African Americans. For those like myself, who survived the political upheavals of the 60s, bridging racial, social, psychological, political, business, academic, religious, medical, etc. infrastructure from a post WWII era to a rapidly advancing global ecology, racism was instantly transformed into universal acceptance of all citizens as endowed with equal rights in the pursuit of life, liberty and happiness. Martin Luther King Jr.'s father was an acquaintance of my father's for years, and was provided many amenities by my father in an otherwise hostile community. Raised in a racially segregated domestic environment during an era when the KKK was still burning crosses to threaten support of continued segregation, leaving the South was primary on my short listed agenda. My father was uncertain where integration would lead, nevertheless neither threatened, sabotaged, nor turned away any African American seeking help.
Living in Los Angeles for 11 years until 2004, where illegal immigration currently overshadows drive-by shootings, and other illegal activities, African Americans, continuing beyond the riots of the early 1990s have rapidly integrated into the upper social, business, economic, political, etc. strata as in other major urban areas, such as Atlanta, New York, Boston, Chicago, Philadelphia, Washington, D.C., etc. Regressive political expediency however, on the part of the current African American Presidential candidate has excited old pangs of racism for apparent personal aggrandizement. Rhetorical sound bytes may entice those who dream dreams of political fortunes that provide wealth for the average man. "This too shall pass," as we are left with the everyday practicality of living in a country that is more racially separated now than at the beginning of the 2008 Presidential Campaign, by a man whose historical lineage within the US is short, and uncertain.
History will look back on this time as a reversibility cycle, perhaps. If we are fortunate as a nation to comprehend and understand the lessons, which are uncertain, other opportunities will likely appear in the future to unite us beyond the limitations of racial and otherwise political threats.
Posted by: Neal Hightower | May 22, 2008 2:05 AM
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I distrust any politician who makes a public show of faith. Unfortunately, ever since Carter and Clinton, this seems to have become obligatory.
The public sphere should be neutral. Hillary's a Methodist; that's a particular version of Christianity that not even all Protestants share.
I'm afraid that all this talk of "faith" (remember when it was called "religion"?) promotes what Freud, a "godless Jew," called "magical thinking." Natural disasters are being attributed to God's wrath about homosexuality or abortion. Poor New Orleans, which was bound to be hit by a bad storm for climactic and geographical reasons, is blamed for its own destruction.
I get chain emails from my cousins which say, "pass this on and you'll be blessed." Utter superstition! A huge step backward for humanity!
To read about what Jefferson, Franklin and Madison had to say about different denominations and about the proper role of religion, read this:
Posted by: CVXH | May 22, 2008 2:04 AM
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Your premise, as strong as it sounds in regards to Senator Clinton's inept campaign strategies fails the litmus test of accuracy in my opinion. A descriptive term that is clearer, for me at least, is betrayal. Her spiritual strength, which you have graciously elaborated has carried her through, and ennobled her constituency, the American people.
Senator Clinton has spent her entire political career beyond the scope of race, in support of the common man, as a leader of those who are gifted beyond ordinary measures. Inspiration, education, hard work, consensus, tactical skills,
diplomacy, are a few of the signature characteristics that she has consistently demonstrated in her work, to be betrayed in this Presidential campaign by those to whom she has provided the greatest assistance, the African Americans. For those like myself, who survived the political upheavals of the 60s, bridging racial, social, psychological, political, business, academic, religious, medical, etc. infrastructure from a post WWII era to a rapidly advancing global ecology, racism was instantly transformed into universal acceptance of all citizens as endowed with equal rights in the pursuit of life, liberty and happiness. Martin Luther King Jr.'s father was an acquaintance of my father's for years, and was provided many amenities by my father in an otherwise hostile community. Raised in a racially segregated domestic environment during an era when the KKK was still burning crosses to threaten support of continued segregation, leaving the South was primary on my short listed agenda. My father was uncertain where integration would lead, nevertheless neither threatened, sabotaged, nor turned away any African American seeking help.
Living in Los Angeles for 11 years until 2004, where illegal immigration currently overshadows drive-by shootings, and other illegal activities, African Americans, continuing beyond the riots of the early 1990s have rapidly integrated into the upper social, business, economic, political, etc. strata as in other major urban areas, such as Atlanta, New York, Boston, Chicago, Philadelphia, Washington, D.C., etc. Regressive political expediency however, on the part of the current African American Presidential candidate has excited old pangs of racism for apparent personal aggrandizement. Rhetorical sound bytes may entice those who dream dreams of political fortunes that provide wealth for the average man. "This too shall pass," as we are left with the everyday practicality of living in a country that is more racially separated now than at the beginning of the 2008 Presidential Campaign, by a man whose historical lineage within the US is short, and uncertain.
History will look back on this time as a reversibility cycle, perhaps. If we are fortunate as a nation to comprehend and understand the lessons, which are uncertain, other opportunities will likely appear in the future to unite us beyond the limitations of racial and otherwise political threats.
Posted by: Neal Hightower | May 22, 2008 2:02 AM
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Obama was raised to view religions as interesting, possibly useful, tribal customs. He now claims to have converted to Christianity under the guidance of Rev. Wright. He claims that he and Rev. Wright did not discuss politics. It follows that Obama and Rev. Wright did not discuss his sermons which are filled with politics.
Obama claims to be disgusted with rap lyrics but has no trouble ignoring Rev. Wright's riding dirty comments.
Rev. Wright's promotion of the idea that the American government could -- or did-- devise AIDS as a plot against blacks is despicable. And it was a complete failure of Obama's moral compass that he allowed this to pass without taking any steps to combat this idea. Black Americans have enough real grievances with America and its history without eventing paranoid imaginary nightmares.
My guess is that Hillary knew about Rev. Wright early on and in the interest of party unity chose not to use it.
Posted by: Jane | May 21, 2008 10:10 PM
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It's one thing to be able to speak as you put it religious rhetoric but it's another to live up to what you say. I feel as man have said: when the curtains are pulled and the door closed the senator from Illinois has the "heart" of Rev. Wright. The news media is so biased they couldn't hear the cyclone above the tornado when Mr. Wright said, Obama is speaking as a politician. I am a minister. Those who listened "heard" him saying, nothing has changed, Obama just realized he had to be the politician and tell the porspective voters what they want to hear, not what he thinks deep down.
Posted by: jean | May 21, 2008 10:04 PM
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It's one thing to be able to speak as you put it religious rhetoric but it's another to live up to what you say. I feel as man have said: when the curtains are pulled and the door closed the senator from Illinois has the "heart" of Rev. Wright. The news media is so biased they couldn't hear the cyclone above the tornado when Mr. Wright said, Obama is speaking as a politician. I am a minister. Those who listened "heard" him saying, nothing has changed, Obama just realized he had to be the politician and tell the porspective voters what they want to hear, not what he thinks deep down.
Posted by: jean | May 21, 2008 10:03 PM
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It's one thing to be able to speak as you put it religious rhetoric but it's another to live up to what you say. I feel as man have said: when the curtains are pulled and the door closed the senator from Illinois has the "heart" of Rev. Wright. The news media is so biased they couldn't hear the cyclone above the tornado when Mr. Wright said, Obama is speaking as a politician. I am a minister. Those who listened "heard" him saying, nothing has changed, Obama just realized he had to be the politician and tell the porspective voters what they want to hear, not what he thinks deep down.
Posted by: jean | May 21, 2008 10:03 PM
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It's one thing to be able to speak as you put it religious rhetoric but it's another to live up to what you say. I feel as man have said: when the curtains are pulled and the door closed the senator from Illinois has the "heart" of Rev. Wright. The news media is so biased they couldn't hear the cyclone above the tornado when Mr. Wright said, Obama is speaking as a politician. I am a minister. Those who listened "heard" him saying, nothing has changed, Obama just realized he had to be the politician and tell the porspective voters what they want to hear, not what he thinks deep down.
Posted by: jean | May 21, 2008 10:02 PM
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It's one thing to be able to speak as you put it religious rhetoric but it's another to live up to what you say. I feel as man have said: when the curtains are pulled and the door closed the senator from Illinois has the "heart" of Rev. Wright. The news media is so biased they couldn't hear the cyclone above the tornado when Mr. Wright said, Obama is speaking as a politician. I am a minister. Those who listened "heard" him saying, nothing has changed, Obama just realized he had to be the politician and tell the porspective voters what they want to hear, not what he thinks deep down.
Posted by: jean | May 21, 2008 10:02 PM
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What politician is truly religious? There is a difference in being religious, and pretending to be. If they really were religions you would hardly know it. Whoever uses religion to get themselves into office is the worst sort of hypocrite -- not the the fundamentalists would ever figure this out. Half of them would not be able to recognise a hypocritie if he/she were staring out at them from the mirror each day. The other half can, and sometimes feel a bit guilty about it, but only at some moments.
Posted by: frank burns | May 21, 2008 6:23 PM
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Hillary is very religious. You do not know her so why do you speak of her religious believes as if you knew her so well. God is with Hillary and this is the reason things now about Obama have come out.
Obama says he is a Christian yet I have not heard of Christian Muslim. Have you?
He wrote in his book Audacity of Hope
"I will stand with the Muslims should the political winds shift in an ugly direction."
Posted by: Gloria Rodriguez | May 21, 2008 3:41 PM
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Thank you so much for your thoughtful words. Those of us who know Hilary and her history of quiet faith know that she has been studying with a few Rabbis for years to better understand the roots of her strong Christian faith. She treasures her faith, and ALL religions as important, and as deeply held personal beliefs, never pushing her faith on others, and relying on her faith to walk through each day with hope, faith and grace.
She did not or would not make an issue over Wright. It's not her style, nor is he, as she simply stated when asked. She prefers a positive expression of faith.
Her love of God and her love of faith and her simple, non theatrical discussion of it is only one of many things few can match.
It is a terrible comment on THIS country that it has become expected and accepted to slander, denigrate, dismiss and discount this wonderful American, who has given so much to all of us, who loves her country, the Constitution, and it’s Laws.
It is our shame that WE as Americans who have benefited so much from her work on our behalf have allowed her life to be hijacked for political ambition, and it is heartbreaking that no one but her supporters have spoken up against this until now.
It is never too late to say nice things about anyone, or too late to speak the truth, so I thank you so much for your thoughts on the person I admire so much, who even now continues to stand up for all of us, when it would be so easy just to sit down.
Her brave and forceful campaign is her gift to all of us, who will have health care, no longer fight in Iraq, send our kids to better schools, have a secure future in a peaceful world, a fair tax system, green jobs, and so much more because she stood up, and REMAINS STANDING for all of us and our right to have our legally cast, recorded and reported and Constitutionally protected Election votes, Officially reported to the Federal Election Commission as POPULAR VOTES, COUNTED in the tally of POPULAR VOTES.
The shame this Democratic Party will NEVER live down is that THEY disregarded our votes; they suppressed votes, and counted Caucus delegate selection for the Convention as POPULAR VOTES, when in fact they are not votes at all, while supressing the VOTES of TWO states. They rigged this election.
This election will be one for the History Books, not only for the strength of Hillary Clinton, but for the terrible gender bias against her, for the terrible excuses for this behavior, and for the FAILURE of the Media and Press to come to the defense of AMERICA BY REFUSING TO GO ALONG WITH A RIGGED NOMINATION PROCESS, refusing to engage in racial politics, and refusing to slander.
We have lost so much in this Process, but I will not give up, I will support Hillary Clinton well beyond this year, come what may, and take my cue from her, walking with faith and love for my Country. And I continue to support her vigorous campaign for the nomination for president by the Democratic Party, which she has EARNED, and can WIN.
Posted by: suzie from atlanta | May 21, 2008 2:44 PM
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The religion in Hillary's base is feminism. Nothing else.
Posted by: candide | May 21, 2008 12:56 PM
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One thing in your article is sooooo true and yet no one wants to talk about it. You state:
Put simply, had Reverend Wright been introduced to voters a few days before the Iowa caucuses, odds are Barack Obama would not be a hair's breadth away from clinching the Democratic nomination for President of the United States. And even if we assume Obama could have managed to hang on and win Iowa after the appearance of his good reverend, which is debatable, it's a near certainty he would not have won as many primaries and caucuses by as many votes around the country as he did in January and February.
I and many others are sure that if this had been known sooner, Obama would have lost this thing early on and if we could have do-overs in the States he won up front-the outcome would be different. And that my friend, (to use a McKain term) is why Obama cannot count on any of the States that he won before Reverend Wright surfaced, in the general election, not to mention the States that Clinton has won, and this will crush the Democratic party. What a shame!
Posted by: Ohiomag | May 21, 2008 12:07 PM
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One thing in your article is sooooo true and yet no one wants to talk about it. You state:
Put simply, had Reverend Wright been introduced to voters a few days before the Iowa caucuses, odds are Barack Obama would not be a hair's breadth away from clinching the Democratic nomination for President of the United States. And even if we assume Obama could have managed to hang on and win Iowa after the appearance of his good reverend, which is debatable, it's a near certainty he would not have won as many primaries and caucuses by as many votes around the country as he did in January and February.
I and many others are sure that if this had been known sooner, Obama would have lost this thing early on and if we could have do-overs in the States he won up front-the outcome would be different. And that my friend, (to use a McKain term) is why Obama cannot count on any of the States that he won before Reverend Wright surfaced, in the general election, not to mention the States that Clinton has won, and this will crush the Democratic party. What a shame!
Posted by: Ohiomag | May 21, 2008 12:06 PM
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Thank you for recognizing a simple fact: Religious Values are held by Democrats as well as Republicans!
"In the absence of polls that distinguish between Mainliners and Evangelicals in all the contested states, it seems safe to say that she outperformed her opponent among White Protestants."
If this is true, then it explains why so much of the media is consistently wrong in reflecting the religious values of the people. For too long, the Media has rushed to the "Falwells, Dobsons, et.al. of the Religious Right" as it that reflects all of Religious people. Hillary's Methodism is much more attune to the average American, quietly reflecting grace and actively involved in love and justice.
I am grateful Hillary's campaign did not try to gin up the political heat by going to the "Wright stuff." The way the Cable News Networks "falsely witnessed" against an outstanding Church (TCC) and preacher will eventually be seen for what it is, a shameful episode in American campaigning.
Dan
Posted by: Daniel A Turner | May 21, 2008 10:17 AM
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Geri, that's just hilarious. Hillary's closest advisor is the lord?!! You can't really believe that. So it was the angel Gabriel whispering in her ear when she came up with the Bosnia sniper fairytale? I would have to hear it from her own mouth that she is a deeply spiritual individual. She uses black preachers to get in with the Black voting bloc. Jesus told her to do that as well?
Posted by: dcp | May 21, 2008 9:51 AM
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Hillary is still running and she is still running at full force.
I cannot believe that pundits and journalists can still marked her dead after her impressive wins. Obama has not been able to do so and yet he is still the darling of the news. His novelty had run and it really has...but unfortunately there are many people voting for him out of a 'guilty feeling'.
We are doing us no good by trying to 'feel good' about orselves and give the White House to Republicans again.
Come November all of Obama's shortcomings (quite a few), his lack of experience and all of his ghosts will gallop and grow bigger than ever.
He needs to sit this one out and let Hillary lead us, fix our problems and give him America in a nice little bundle after her Administration.
Posted by: Malena Mounce | May 21, 2008 7:24 AM
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Thank you for your article. As a WA state voter for 14yrs, 2/9/08 was only my 2nd caucus,(due to my work.) Caucus meetings don't allow those who are disabled, in the military, working, etc, to vote! Obama's caucus people used bullying tactics still in place. Our Congressional Convention May 17th, added more insults to the list. Democracy doesn't mistreat voters. Denial of entire states is ridiculous! This political theft was planned with the help of our WA Dem. leaders who decided not to count our primary. We understand how FL and MI feel. Considering the endless amount of money Obama has spent per vote, it's actually amazing Hillary has so many votes and supporters. The delegates are most important to Obama now. He took the caucuses and has the Media. Next it's the DNC. David McDonald, on DNC rules committee, is a Seattle lawyer who helped set up the WA caucus "strategy" and denied FL their votes! He's in the c-span video of the DNC meeting 8/25/07. I think Hillary's campaign has done an amazing job considering the opposition. I don't think Obama can beat McCain. Media and money aren't enough. Hillary has the real democratic vote. Obama plays the game. Hillary connects with voters and gives solutions to our problems. Your article is about values, faith and religious voters. Hillary is practicing a basic religious belief. Respect! She doesn't ignore states or voters. We have seen the media continue to mistreat her. Ted Kennedy said she wasn't the right "caliber" to be Obama's VP! Tonight, Hillary called Ted a populist hero whose work has helped us all. That is forgiveness. I'm sorry he's sick but, I'm still offended. Florida, Kentucky, W.Virginia, and Michigan feel ignored not respect! Democracy means count all the votes! Respect all states! We believe Hillary Will Win!
Posted by: Kathryn Ellis | May 21, 2008 4:01 AM
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Mr. Berlinerblau, you reversed your facts.The folks that gravitate to Obama are folks who claim no particular faith or religion or even attend very often.
Its your 9th paragraph "OBAMA FOR HIS PART" Its the non-religious non-church going folks Obama draws.
Especially in Oregon.Your statement is wrong. Saying the MORE committed are drawn to Obama its just the opposite!
Obama did not & does not draw the person COMMITTED to their faith or religion. He draws the folks with LESS faith & less commitment. Maybe that explains Obama-ites NOT caring about his Radical hate spewing Rev.Wright. Of them EXCUSING him for his radical relationships with Rezko(Slumlord), W.Ayers, Obamas FRIEND, Known terrorist of the 1970's, who in 2005 declared "Wish I had bombed more" and Obama made excuses for that fact,& of course Rev. Wright.Obama has said in 20 yrs he NEVER heard a negative word. If you believe that I have a bridge to sell you!
I wish the media would vet Obama as throughly as you all slam Hillary. Then maybe we will not end up with a President we will regret.Obama lies as much as Bush does, in case you have not noticed.
But alas, chauvinism is alive & well & living in the media!
Thank you,
Sharon
Tualatin Oregon
Posted by: Sharon DePasquale | May 21, 2008 3:28 AM
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Thank you for your article. I'm not sure if Hillary's camp didn't know about Wright...I think it's possible that they did not want to go there...two dems are different from a dem and a rep. Besides, the media protected and promoted Obama too much and helped build those few months of Obama-mania. It was horrible. I'll never forget the media bias and favoritism for Obama. Very unfair.
Hillary 08!
Posted by: Kat | May 21, 2008 2:39 AM
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Hillary Clinton has my vote. I believe that she should be our next Presient. Obama is a flawed man. I will not vote for him no matter what! Even if Hillary is his VP. Not because he is black but what the man has done or not done. His comments about small town America, his wife's comments, his ties with Ferracon, Ayers, and Rezno, his cousin who supports Muslems, his campagin bundling, his preacher, and his general lies have turned me against this man. I will not vote for him. Never!! This man is not for America but for Africa. He uses religion for political reasons.
Posted by: Janice | May 21, 2008 12:00 AM
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Contrary to J. Berlinerblau's statement, Clinton has never been "troubled by a lack of caucus know-how." Rather, she's been troubled by the fact that many of her supporters are unable, because they need to be at their jobs or have health problems, to attend caucuses to cast their votes for her, whereas most Obama supporters can attend caucuses. Thus the votes of many Clinton supporters can't be cast or counted in caucus-style primaries, putting Clinton at a disadvantage in those primaries and giving a distorted picture of actual voter preference. In the popular vote, Clinton leads Obama by a comfortable margin.
Posted by: Patrick Knif | May 20, 2008 11:42 PM
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Contrary to J. Berlinerblau's statement, Clinton has never been "troubled by a lack of caucus know-how." Rather, she's been troubled by the fact that many of her supporters are unable, because they need to be at their jobs or have health problems, to attend caucuses to cast their votes for her, whereas most Obama supporters can attend caucuses. Thus the votes of many Clinton supporters can't be cast or counted in caucus-style primaries, putting Clinton at a disadvantage in those primaries and giving a distorted picture of actual voter preference. In the popular vote, Clinton leads Obama by a comfortable margin.
Posted by: Patrick Knif | May 20, 2008 11:41 PM
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I have always believed that Hillary's faith has kept her going through all of the trying times in her life. She speaks of her faith openly and when she speaks about it she has a look of peace and contentment all over her face. As a christian myself, I can recognize that look of inner contentment. She is truly a good person, one that I would trust to make good decisons about important issues concerning the future of our great country. She has moderate views and is willing to work with others and listen to all points of views before reaching a final decison on important matters. I truly believe that her closest advisor is the lord, and that she will consult him before making any important decisons in her life, person or political.
Geri
Tennessee
Posted by: Geri Wiltshire | May 20, 2008 11:33 PM
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This is all sad commentary about Democrats not caring about faith. That is simply not true.
Obama has even tried to reach out to voters as a Christian.
Anyway, there was a media blackout on Obama and his church... read this:
http://www.thecuttingedgenews.comindex.php?article=413
Posted by: observer | May 20, 2008 10:33 PM
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Senator Clinton has all the right reason to be elected;
she's proving it EVERY DAY
each time Obama out$pends Clinton, SHE STILL WINS
Just proves that you can't buy a vote.
I'm supporting & voting for Hillary in S. Dakota
Posted by: George | May 20, 2008 9:32 PM
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Please excuse the following correction to my previous post:
BJWL posted: "This was for the news media to bring out. Too bad they can't be depended on to do their jobs."
I realize that this is off-topic, but *what* exactly is the media's "job"? Last time I checked, media outlets were private businesses, not publicly elected entities...
Posted by: Robert B. | May 20, 2008 8:55 PM
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BJWL posted: "This was for the news media to bring out. Too bad they can't be depended on to do their jobs."
I realize that this is off-topic, but exactly is the media's "job"? Last time I checked, media outlets were private businesses, not publicly elected entities...
Posted by: Robert B. | May 20, 2008 8:45 PM
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Hillary Clinton speaks with confidence of the Faith she has known throughout her life. Rhetoric is an honorable area of study and knowledge of proper form prevents both speaker and listener from being betrayed or exploited. Hillary represents serious and devout Christian women and serious women of all faiths who find strength and courage in their love of God.
Posted by: Calla Bobo | May 20, 2008 8:37 PM
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There's absolutely no way Clinton could have brought up Wright without getting destroyed for it. She was slammed for far worse. Remember the picture of Obama in regional garb? And she didn't even do this. This was for the news media to bring out. Too bad they can't be depended on to do their jobs.
Posted by: BJWL | May 20, 2008 8:22 PM
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Hillary is saved? "Her religious outreach unit" you say? Told ya the GOP was dumping the evangelicals. McCain is a little slow so he may not have gotten the message. Doesn't he have one of them, "religious outreach units" too?
Rush still stumping hard to get another "abortion" elected is he? Old Lucifer never gives up.
Posted by: BGone | May 20, 2008 5:11 PM
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The real reason few have commented is that we are all tired of Hillary Rodham Clinton, the girl who would be pope! At least she is a Methodist, people who believe in doing good as a religious obligation and not just saying they believe and will be saved. We could use more Methodists and fewer Baptists and other Calvinists.
Posted by: candide | May 20, 2008 3:20 PM
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Exactly. Democrats look at substance since we know people of faith have proven to be both good and bad people. Wasn't a serial killer found last year in Kansas as a god fearing, church going, married man? Democrats know one's faith does nothing to say what is in the heart or mind. Democrats listen to promises, look at track records, and try to determine how that person will be in the job.
But hey, if faith is all one should care about, then you will get people like Bush now and then.
Posted by: Fate | May 20, 2008 12:45 PM
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No wonder no one has commented. Talking about the religious appeal of a Democrat candidate is the same as talking about the nutritious value of a McD's menu. No one cares. No one goes to McD's for health food, and no one looks at a Democrat for his faith.
Posted by: dcp | May 20, 2008 10:44 AM
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Hillary presents herself with grace and compassion; she is indeed, a world apart from some others...
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rzL8Sn3Zl5A