Tell Me More

Former President, AND a Muppet in Studio

12:14

April 29, 2008

Michel is in the studio interview interviewing former President Jimmy Carter. And already I can tell we'll be using a big space for this one - they're having a fascinating conversation. We'll have that interview later this week.

Meanwhile, I'm finishing up pre-production for an interview later today - with Rosita, a Sesame Street muppet. She's featured in a new DVD kit for military families. We'll have this one on the show soon.

I'll be back with more about today's show and what's coming up tomorrow ...

12:14 - April 29, 2008

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I heard the last few minutes of David Bonior's interview on Tell Me More on 4/29/08 and I have to say I was dismayed (and disgusted really) at Bonior's characterization of Sen. Obama being out of touch with the populace. I do agree that the senator has to overcome a perceived class barrier, and has to be comfortable doing so to connect with ordinary working American's. But to put the man down because of his education and his wearing a white shirt and tie is tantamount to boxing him in a stereotype: Black men have to appear casually dressed in order to be seen as "authentic." Bologna! And its despicable to suggest that of the candidate, a married adult man, an attorney, a member of the esteemed U.S. Senate that he is somehow not able to connect with people because he is dressed in the professional man's uniform? I could hardly believe my ears! And further to say that he is somehow seen as deficient because, although he looked alright on a basketball court, he looked awkward bowling is ludicrous. Neither the basketball court nor the bowling lanes should define his (or any candidates) qualification for the presidency (or any political office for that matter). That was so outrageous and I would never have believed that a Republican would stoop so low if I hadn't heard it with my own ears. Worst of all, it was spoken in matter-of-fact conversational tones that would lull many into an automatic affirmation of this tripe.

Sent by Dee Jones | 2:39 PM ET | 04-29-2008

Listening to your interview with Rev. Haynes I am distressed. I wonder, at times, if these "Progressive Ministers" want social justice. Given their oratorical skills and command of the English language their message could easily be tailored to be inclusive. Listen to any of MLK's speeches and his choice of words in the delivery of his messages were inclusive. Their was nothing in Wrights many speeches over the weekend that was inclusive. Most of these pastor's quote MLK but they don't use politics in the same way MLK did to move the political discussion to to the point of social change or social justice. For Wright to suggest that the attacks on him were an attack on the black church is ridiculous. Wright was used simply as a political distraction in an important and historic presidential campaign. His response is exactly what the "white pundits" wanted. He joined the very game they started. Rev Haynes said that Rev. Wright is "brilliant", "has a Phd", but yet Wright has taken a myopic position on this situation that only hurts Obama.

Sent by Glenn | 5:12 PM ET | 04-29-2008

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