Shelby Steele wrote about Obama in “A Bound Man: Why We Are Excited About Obama and Why He Can’t Win,” (NPR interview here).
Is it possible for Obama to have missed out on experiences that many black voters consider crucial to their vote with his overseas upbringing, and Kenyan father? maybe he’s missed (or does not engage) many of the ideas (like Steele’s) that define the experiences?.
George Will suggests that Obama has somehow transcended many racial fissures in American life by exercising his own free will, taking advantage of his opportunities, and focusing on larger, unifying experiences that more Americans can embrace.
The NY Times highlights Obama as a new kind of black politician, more comfortable in places like Harvard Law and “boardrooms,” yet also capable of speaking to a black congregation.
Will black voters back Obama despite their doubts if he looks like he might win?
Addition: It looks like I’m just making the same old “authentically black” argument. It that case, what if Clarence Thomas ran for president?
