Are Black, Democratic Politicians Sell-Outs?
Al Sharpton’s nationally syndicated talk radio show is quickly becoming “must hear” for African-Americans who are political junkies… especially during this primary season. Today, Rev. Al introduced a topic to his audience that I know many African-Americans are discussing amongst their friends and families. The topic was this; are the African-American politicians endorsing Hillary Clinton “sell-outs” for not backing Barack Obama?
Wow!
The first thing I thought as I tuned in was that this must be a first in African-American political history… Black Democrats being labeled “sell-outs.” Typically, that term is saved for our brothers and sisters of the Republican persuasion only (i.e. Michael Steele, Clarence Thomas, Condoleezza Rice, etc.)
However, Sen. Obama has ignited something within the masses of Democratic African-Americans that has never been seen (respect to Jesse Jackson in ‘84, ‘88). To illustrate a simple example of the street passion of Obama’s campaign look no further than what vendors are selling in Atlanta. In large quantities, t-shirts are being sold with the image of both Dr. Martin L. King and Barack Obama… the script reads “The Dreamer… The Dream.”Â
Caller after caller voiced their opinion passionately about their disappointment in their “leadership” for not supporting Obama. One caller stated that the elected officials have the obligation to endorse the choice of their constituents. He also believed that if they didn’t, then the people who voted them in should vote them out. Rev. Al showed some constraint and wouldn’t call anyone a sell-out, but he is very disappointed with many of the things they’ve said against Obama.
You can add Rep. Maxine Waters to the long list of establishment Black Democrats that are endorsing Hillary Clinton. It makes you wonder how much money the Clintons have funneled into the coffers of African-American politicans. It is hard for one to believe that some of the staunchest advocates for African-Americans are totally lock step with the Clintons without there being some sort of payback being involved.
Take a look at the list of African-Americans Politicians (and others) that are endorsing Hillary Clinton. What are your thoughts? Are they sell-outs?
Welcome back Toni Morrison, but you still should apologize for your comments in ‘98.
Also, is Tavis Smiley (see TJMS 1.8.0 
asking African-Americans to examine Hillary Clinton’s record like he is suggesting they do for Barack Obama? Why doesn’t he just publicly come out and endorse Hillary? We all know his long relationship with the Clinton’s and his worship of Bill. The reason he cannot and won’t come out for Hillary is because he will feel the wrath of the community and lose a lot of credibility with African-Americans.
