Obama tackles race, but GOP see potential weapon

[goldcanyonaz]

BY GLENN THRUSH

Barack Obama's first major speech on race drew praise for its eloquence Tuesday -- but Republicans think he handed them a major weapon by refusing to disown family pastor Jeremiah Wright Jr., who is known for racially inflammatory remarks.

"This is far and away the most damaging issue of the campaign for him, and his wonderful speech did nothing to make it go away," said Whit Ayres, a longtime Republican pollster.

Obama, whose victories in mostly white states like Iowa and Wisconsin were powered by a multiracial coalition, has been on the defensive after release of a video showing Wright shouting "God damn America" during a sermon on racism.


http://www.newsday.com/news/nationworld/ny-usobam0319,0,6935371.story