Headed to NYC

Let me get on up out of here. I'm headed to MY HOMETOWN, Nueva York -- the Apple, the Empire State.

We'll be there for three days of broadcasts next week. We are delighted that we will now be part of the WNYC radio family as of Monday.

Boo-ya.

Check us out from New York in the first part of the week, then back in D.C. for the rest of the week.

Now, the week in politics ...

Today, we decided to talk about the SPOUSES of presidential candidates John McCain and Barack Obama. This year they both happen to be wives (who are we kidding? ... they always have been). It's become an axiom that we want to know who these guys are married to.

How much do we need to know?

Let's debate this. On the one hand, we know the spouses are key players. Most married people influence each other, how could they not? So, we should know something about them, shouldn't we? On the other hand, the wife is not on the ballot, so shouldn't there be some zone of privacy?

And, on the one hand, they are significant cultural figures. Why shouldn't we take them as seriously as we do singers and actors, rappers and athletes? But, on the other hand, can't we leave them alone? ... Since life is hard enough?

What do you say? How much so you want to know and has what you knew about the spouse of a previous candidate ever affected your vote?

Second, Faith Matters. We wanted to focus on Dr. James Dobson. What do you think his bone to pick with Obama is about? Is it doctrine or politics? And, who do You think is right?

Read a copy of Obama's speech. Then, hear what Dr. Dobson has to say about it.

And, of course, the Barbershop guys. What do you think about Don Imus's recent comments about suspended NFL cornerback Adam "Pacman" Jones? Was he taken out of context? Do you care?

And, Shaq versus Kobe? Is it part of the game or enough already?
(I think you know where I come out on this, but I am still interested.)

Have a great weekend. When we talk next I'll be in the Apple. My hometown.

Michel Martin

3:02 PM ET | 06-27-2008 | permalink | comments (3) | e-mail post

Can I get some DAP?

Just one of the ways Sen. Barack Obama's campaign is changing the conversation: if you don't know what DAP is, just listen or check out the video below. (See, we are here for you.)

More reflections on the presumed Obama nomination, from a variety of voices. First, though, a conversation with Bob Johnson, the co-founder of BET and the current owner of the NBA Charlotte Bobcats. He is strongly advocating that Hillary Clinton join the Democratic ticket.

Also, we talk to L. Douglas Wilder, who made history as the first African American elected governor post-reconstruction. Wilder took the helm in Virginia in 1990 and served one term (under the state's constitution permits).

And, of course, the Barbershop guys.

Have a great weekend.

Michel Martin

2:33 PM ET | 06- 6-2008 | permalink | comments (5) | e-mail post

In the Face of Hope ... and Fear

Democratic presidential nominee Sen. Barack Obama claims victory with wife, Michelle Obama, in St. Paul Minnesota.

EMMANUEL DUNAND/AFP/Getty Images

Two faces of politics this morning: hope and fear. The fear: an update on elections in Zimbabwe. At least 30-60 people have been killed in what opposition supporters and international observers call retaliatory violence aimed at supporters of opposition leader Morgan Tsvangirai. Tsvangirai recently returned from abroad to stand in a runoff in an election he believes he already won but in which Mugabe will not concede. On two separate occasions we have been set to interview Tsvangirai when he had to cancel to address needs of supporters, as his people told us. Yesterday, he and a convoy of his supporters were detained. They were released about nine hours later. Today, we were able to get to his chief spokesman, Nelson Chamisa. Freelance reporter Brian Hungwe gave us additional perspective.

And, just as we got off the air came a wire story indicating that U.S. and British embassy (diplomatic) staff had been harassed by police in Zimbabwe -- their car stopped, the tires slashed, their telephones seized. They were threatened with being burned alive. This is highly unusual and provocative. We'll let you know more as we learn more.

And, then, the hope.

We have reflections on Barack Obama's historic role as a major party nominee for President. This is not a brief for Obama, but it would be journalistically negligent not to take note of the reactions to this milestone. Remember, equal voting rights for people of African descent was not achieved until 1965 when the Voting Rights Act was passed. Until then, despite the Constitution, blacks were routinely and often violently denied the right to participate in the civic life of this country.

This is not ancient history. This is within the lifetime of most adults of voting age in this country. So perhaps you can understand why Congressman James Clyburn (the House Majority Whip and a member of the leadership and the highest ranking African American in the House) literally felt he had to be alone as he watched the speech, worrying that he would not be able to control his emotions, a remarkable admission for someone who has been in this so long.

But this is not, as Obama undoubtedly would himself have mentioned, about HIM. So we talked to a diverse panel of folks, most of whom you met before on this program, to tell us what they think the moment means. And, we want to know what it means to you.

Don't worry, we kept it real. It was not all, as they say Kumbaya.

And, finally, BEER. Our summer tasting series begins.

One of our producers Jack Zahora, had to help me out because I am not a beer drinker. Sorry, I took one (ok, three or four) for the team.

Cheers ... to YOUR health.

Michel Martin

2:40 PM ET | 06- 5-2008 | permalink | comments (3) | e-mail post

NYT: Clinton to Concede, Endorse Obama

The New York Times is reporting that Sen. Hillary Clinton will likely officially concede the Democratic nomination and endorse Sen. Barack Obama, the likely nominee, on Friday. As its source, the newspaper credits a senior aide to the campaign.

If true, the suspension of the Clinton campaign comes two days after Obama weighed in with 2154 national delegates -- well above the minimum 2118 needed to secure the nomination.

Lee Hill

7:48 PM ET | 06- 4-2008 | permalink | comments (5) | e-mail post

Clyburn Gives Nod to Obama

Big news today: House Majority Whip James Clyburn, the number three Democrat in the House, makes his long-awaited endorsement. Not surprising to many who've been reading the tea leaves. His choice is Barack Obama, but he had insisted he would stay out of the process until the process was decided. He says the time is now.

Here's Clyburn's statement:

Today the primary process draws to a close. From the beginning, I have made it clear that I would put the Democratic Party's best interest first and remain publicly neutral as this process ran its course, but it is now time to make my preference known. Today I am pledging my delegate vote to Senator Barack Obama for President of the United States. I believe the nomination of Senator Obama is our Party's best chance for victory in November, and our nation's best hope for much needed change. Senator Obama brings a new vision for our future and new voters to our cause. He has created levels of energy and excitement that I have not witnessed since the 1960's. Recent surveys indicate that Senator Obama is by far the most preferred presidential candidate among Democrats and independents, and I believe he is the most electable candidate that Democrats can offer. He will be able to dramatically change the electoral map for Democrats which will in turn expand our majorities here in Congress, and help elect more Democrats at the state and local levels. Furthermore, I believe that Senator Obama is the Democrat who can unite our people, help heal our nation's wounds, improve our standing on the world stage, and steer our country in a new direction. What is especially exciting about Senator Obama's candidacy is its attraction to young and independent voters. Our Party cannot hope to continue our recent successes if we don't continue to attract new voters. Senator Obama has demonstrated the ability to draw a new map for Democrats by putting traditionally red states like Colorado, Virginia and North Carolina, and swing states like New Mexico, Missouri and Iowa in play. A recent Zogby poll has Senator Obama leading Senator McCain in every age demographic except for those over 65. That speaks volumes about which candidate represents our nation's future, and which represents our past. I admit I am over 65, but my support of Senator Obama is a vote for our children's and grandchildren's futures. This is a pivotal time for our Party, our nation and the world. This past weekend the DNC Rules and Bylaws Committee made a decision to act in the interest of party unity, and now we must come together. Our Party's success going forward will depend in large measure upon how we treat each other between now and our national convention, how we appear to the nation during our national convention, and how we conduct the campaign after our national convention. Our Vice Presidential nominee will be introduced to the nation on the eve of the 45 Anniversary of the 1963 March on Washington, the historic petition to the nation for gender, ethnic and workplace equality. Our Presidential nominee will accept our Party's nomination on the anniversary of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.'s historic call for a nation where we are all judged by 'the content of our character rather than the color of our skin.' Over the next several weeks, our Party will have an historic opportunity to transcend these issues that have plagued our nation since its founding and our Party for generations. All of us have roles to play in helping to unify this party and unite in support of our nominee. But united does not mean unanimous, united means recognizing and respecting some realities. And it is a reality that delegates determine the winner. No matter the outcome tonight, Senator Obama will lead in the delegate count and should be named the nominee. Any other outcome would require un-pledged delegates, who have the power and authority to do so, to reverse the results of those who played by the established rules and worked hard in the primaries and caucuses. This would be unwarranted and could make the nomination worthless. I believe the time has come for all un-pledged delegates to make their choices known, and I believe our best choice against a George Bush third term is Senator Barack Obama.

Now, there are still a lot of questions: do other superdelegates follow and if so how soon? Do they follow in time for tonight's post election announcement? The math is not that simple: Obama needs 41.5 more delegates to get to the magic 2118; Sen. Clinton is 1917.5 (I'm not getting the half-delegate thing -- is that Michigan/Florida compromise at work? Anyway ...)

The decision to support Sen. Obama was obviously not just about the math, but also Mr. Clyburn's own history and belief and desires.

Continue reading "Clyburn Gives Nod to Obama" »

Michel Martin

11:45 AM ET | 06- 3-2008 | permalink | comments (3) | e-mail post

Politics ... And the City

Some truly momentous and important things to talk about -- and some LESS than momentous and important things to talk about ... but something we want to talk about (Hint: four women, fab clothes).

The issue of the Michigan and Florida delegates to the Democratic convention is more or less resolved. Today, we tell you how. And, we discuss Sen. Barack Obama. He resigned his membership at the church he attended for more than 20 years.

And a story of rape and recovery: Joanna Connors tells an amazing story about her journey of recovery from rape. When something awful happens to us, it's so normal and so human to say, WHY? Why did this happen to me? Many of us turn to therapy or to faith -- to whatever helps us live through the day. Joanna used the tools of the reporting trade to track down the person who raped her and to figure out, if she could, what brought him to the place of trying to cut her throat in a darkened theater where she had gone to interview a playwright.

I confess that, as a journalist, this is not at all strange to me. It makes perfect sense. Writers write. Reporters want to know. But, I can see where others might find it beyond strange. So we'd like to know what you think. After listening to today's conversation with Joanna, is this something you would do, or wish you could do if something awful happened? Do you want to know? WHY? Are you interested in hearing from the standpoint of the other players in the story?

And, next week, we hope to bring you another powerful story about a woman who took an extraordinary stand to break the silence of abuse -- the daughter of a civil rights icon and her courageous decision to reveal his awful secret side.

If you want to read the piece that got our attention it was in last weekend's Washington Post Magazine.

And, because I cannot leave you devastated, Lalah Hathaway was on the program today and has a delicious new album. That voice makes me think of a warm sweater on a chilly day.

TOTAL HEAD SNAP here: Sex and the City.

I'm sorry. It has to happen. MUST DISCUSS. What is the point of having a blog if you can't ask people what they thought about it? Cultural moment? What says box office gold like a $56 million opening, the best ever for a film with female leads.

So, what did you think?

And Jennifer Hudson, good role or tacked on?

Big, ridiculous New York fantasy -- has nothing to do with you?

Or, awesome eye candy? Great time out with the girls? ... Are there some deep truths about the lives of women today embedded in there?

I confess, I was not a huge fan of the original television series. I watched it sometimes, mainly (to be honest) because I am in the media and I felt I had to know what people were talking about. But I did not love the gender, class or racial politics. I mean that I can understand why some people loved it, but to me, I never saw what was so wonderful about women objectifying men as either sex objects or meal tickets. And, I never liked the fact that in a city as diverse as New York, the African-American characters (few) struck me as CARTOONS (like, what was up with that Blair Underwood character? He's Sidney Poitier-PERFECT one minute, and then Snoop Dog the next because he can't get with Miranda? Spare me. SPARE ME.

... And I never figured out how a freelance writer could afford all those $500 pairs of shoes. Ok?

But, having said all that about the movie, I thought there was something there. I really did. What did you think?

The MOCHAS are going to talk about it on tomorrow's show. Weigh in.

Michel Martin

4:07 PM ET | 06- 2-2008 | permalink | comments (11) | e-mail post

AP: Obamas 'Resign' from Chicago Church

An update to yesterday's blog entry ...

The Associated Press is reporting that Democratic presidential candidate Sen. Barack Obama and his family have formally "resigned" membership from Trinity United Church of Christ in Chicago. Of course, this appears to be`a casualty resulting from the massive spotlight that's recently been placed on the congregation (see yesterday's blog).

Read the AP story for more details on the Obamas' decision to part ways with the church.

Surprising? Necessary? ... Unfortunate?

What's your take?

Lee Hill

10:08 PM ET | 05-31-2008 | permalink | comments (7) | e-mail post

Not Obama's 'Pastor Problem'?

So, you should know that today's program was almost entirely LIVE (with the exception of BackTalk). So, you can imagine that adrenaline levels around here were pretty high. Love it.

Also, in case you haven't heard, it seems Democratic presidential candidate Sen. Barack Obama is back in the hot seat with "breaking news" of a fiery sermon -- given by Catholic priest Michael Pfleger -- that contained a pretty strong analysis of Obama's rival, Sen. Hillary Clinton.

See for yourself:

So, here's the question: should Obama necessarily be implicated by Pfleger's words (both have since issues statements shunning the remarks)? Although the comments were made from the pulpit of Trinity United Church of Christ, where Obama once attended and the Rev. Jeremiah Wright serves as Senior Pastor, Father Pfleger is not Obama's spiritual leader, never has been.

And, what more, if anything, do these types of sermons -- and, recently, the subsequent media attention -- say about traditions within the Black church (Pfleger, himself, leads a predominantly-black parish)?

Meet you back here on Monday.

Lee Hill

12:51 PM ET | 05-30-2008 | permalink | comments (11) | e-mail post

Truth is Self Evident?

It occurred to me this morning that when I was growing up that I did not know you could buy melons in stores.

I thought you could only buy them off a truck or be given them from people's gardens. Why did I think that? Because that's the only kind I ever had. My mother's neighbors in Philadelphia where she grew up had a huge garden and since we spent many weeks in the summer there when we were little, that's where, I thought, melons came from. And growing up where I did in the inner city in Brooklyn, where there were really no supermarkets to speak of, fruit, vegetables - those came from stands, or bodegas, or even better, trucks - trucks where you pulled up and a guy whacked one with a machete and gave you a slice which you ate while your mom or dad argued over which was the best one.

So I had to laugh when at some point I must have seen melons stacked up in a supermarket and thought - wha? What's this? When did they start selling melons in stores? How long has this been going on?

Which brings me to the whole running for office thing.

If you never see anybody who looks like you doing a certain job, does it occur to you that YOU could do it? Even if you'd be good at it?

How long does it take or how many people have to do it before you realize you can? Or at least that you should try?

Here's a piece that Marie Cocco wrote for the Washington Post writer's group, arguing that the Clinton campaign has pointed out how far the US lags behind in advancing women in political leadership.

Others, like feminist writer Robin Morgan, have been arguing for months vociferously that but for sexism Clinton's accomplishments would be more visible and more appreciated.

Certainly others like Peggy Noonan argue that Clinton needs to get over herself - that her deficiencies are hers and that complaining about sexism is well ... whinny ... and in fact disqualifying. Let her tell you.

But our conversation today was not so much about sexism as posing the question of WHY the US is where it is in the percentage of women in elected office.

If you want the facts you can find LOTS here at the Center for the American Woman in Politics site. Debbie Walsh, its director, was part of the conversation.

Also Ellen Moran, executive director of EMILY"S LIST, a pioneer in helping women get the money to run for office. Emily's List supports pro-choice women.

And Ambassdor Swanee Hunt, who has her fingers in all kinds of pies related to advancing women in leadership around the world. She argued that in many cases women need to change their attitude about what they can do. Here's a piece by Ruth Marcus on this point.

I know some people will argue with all this, especially Ambassador Hunt's idea that men's and women's brains work differently. That thought makes some people - a lot of people - cringe. Hey, I have no dog in that fight. Could be true, could be false. I am not afraid of the question. In fact, makes me think there might be another show in there.

Finally, a CORRECTION ...

I need to correct something I said on the first "live" feed of the program today. I mistakenly awarded Ambassador Swanee Hunt a doctorate in PSYCHOLOGY. Her doctorate is in THEOLOGY. Big difference. Here's her bio. She holds two master's degrees, a doctorate in theology, and six honorary degrees.

I am sorry about that. I misremembered it from her biography, which I read a while ago.

Michel Martin

10:37 AM ET | 05-28-2008 | permalink | comments (1) | e-mail post

Weighing in on the Obama-Wright Furor

Sen. Barack Obama (left) and the Rev. Jeremiah Wright

AP

Lee, here ...

First, if you haven't already, have a listen to Michel Martin's commentary today. She weighs in on the furor surrounding Democratic presidential candidate Sen. Barack Obama's relationship with the Rev. Jeremiah Wright, his former pastor in Chicago. Many say they would've "walked out" on the pastor and his more confrontational sermons (Sen. Hillary Clinton, Obama's rival, added to the tensions yesterday).

Whether you agree or disagree, we'd like to know your thoughts.

And speaking of the race for the White House, some are disputing the role of race (regarding ethnicity, that is) in this election. We talked about this today.

Now, we put the question to you: has the focus on race (and gender) in this election overstayed its welcome?

In the absence of historic times (when both a woman and a black man have an actual shot at the presidency, for example), when are these matters looked at and studied so closely? ... When else would they have such room to breath?

But, again, I ask ... do you feel smothered by these talks, or freed by them?

Let us know.

Finally, switching gears completely to offer you news you can use (which agitated me), it looks like a growing number of commercial airlines will now charge customers for checking more than one bag. A steady increase in fuel prices is being blamed for the new fees.

I must tell you, I defy the (unfair) stereotypes of most men in that I am not known to pack lightly, so I'm less than thrilled at this decision.

Guess I'll have to change my ways.

Lee Hill

4:50 PM ET | 03-26-2008 | permalink | comments (56) | e-mail post

The Kilpatrick Indictment

A booking photo released by the Wayne County Sheriff's Department (taken March 24, 2008) shows Detroit Mayor Kwame Kilpatrick after being recently charged with multiple felony counts, including perjury.

AP

Singer Ricardo Lemvo (second from right) pauses for a photo with TMM Intern Tyrone Martin (left), Producer Teshima Walker and NPR Newscasts Producer Trina Williams.

Jon Palmer Claridge

We were preparing for our editorial meeting yesterday when the televisions in our work area (usually muted) began flashing with news that felony charges were being filed against Detroit Mayor Kwame Kilpatrick in connection with his testimony in a lawsuit filed by two former city employees.

For whatever reason, this does not surprise me; it just seemed the writing was on the wall. Nevertheless, I have to admit it was shocking. I can't say exactly why, but it was shocking to hear Wayne County Prosecutor Kym Worthy reciting a list of eight charges against Kilpatrick, and seven against his former Chief of Staff Christine Beatty.

Later, just as we were preparing to hear from Mayor Kilpatrick and Dan Webb, his attorney, the cable goes out! (YIKES, YIKES, YIKES!) So, I shoot off an "news all-staff" e-mail asking, what do I do? ... Whose TV is working?

(Of course, some smarty pants had to ask me why I'm not satisfied with audio. Excuse me; I came from television, okay?)

Thankfully, one of our engineers directed me to streaming video online offered by one of Detroit's local news stations, which turned out to be the best possible doption (thanks, Dennis!). Not only did they carry the press conference live, but they stayed with the story long enough to hear reaction from Detroit voters, something the national outlets were not going to do.

Sadly, it was deja vu.

I remember being in Washington when former Mayor Marion Barry was captured on videotape in a sting operation with a onetime girlfriend. I don't remember the exact details, but I do remember crack was involved. I also remember the complicated feelings ...

As a citizen: shock, anger, embarrassment, outrage (not always sure at whom; the partisans emerge to defend the prosecution, and the defendant). As a journalist: you're thinking, what an incredible story? ... What happens now?

Anyway, been there, done that ... which is maybe why there was no question about whether we would pursue this story for today's program. We were happy to get Kilpatrick's attorney to talk to us about defending the mayor (he made it clear he will not be doing many interviews). And, for a fuller picture, we heard from Washington, D.C., attorney Stanley Brand.

And, the Mochas on kids and lying. It just so happened that we planned the conversation for today. Total coincidence, really.

Finally, we were glad to bring you the story -- and music -- of singer Ricardo Lemvo. Check out the photo (above) of Lemvo, pictured with TMM Senior Supervising Producer Teshima Walker and Intern Tyrone Martin.

I guess I'm lucky Teshima and Tyrone came back to work, huh? As much fun as they were having ...

Michel Martin

3:05 PM ET | 03-25-2008 | permalink | comments (0) | e-mail post

Eliot Spitzer.

Gov. Eliot Spitzer (D-NY)

Getty Images

Lt. Gov. David Paterson

AP

Two words: Eliot Spitzer

One word: STUPID

I'm sorry, I find I need to say that again: STOO-OO-PID.

Actually, it's more of a question: just how stupid could he be?

I am sure we'll cover some aspect of this scandal in the coming days, but if you've been on a spiritual retreat, or disengaged from the news for some reason and have no idea what I am talking about, NY Governor Eliot Spitzer, former Attorney General with a crime fighting Elliot Ness-like reputation -- elected in a landslide just over a year ago -- has been connected to a prostitution ring just busted up by the feds. It does appear that, as "Client 9," Spitzer had at least one paid encounter with at least one woman. The story broke yesterday afternoon, but I don't think this compromises anything (to be real about it), does it? Might as well put it out there.

I don't know what our angle on this story might be ...

New York might get its first African American Governor, David Paterson, who is currently the Lieutenant Governor of New York. Paterson, former Minority Leader of the State Senate, also has an amazing back story -- he is legally blind from infancy and a grad of top college and law schools. Also, he's made some really interesting career moves. Paterson gave up his seat in the state senate to become lieutenant governor.

There also might be more to say about risk-taking behavior. Remember, Detroit Mayor Kwame Kilpatrick is in hot water because of his sexual affair with his chief of staff, which they both appear to have lied about under oath. The affair was revealed in thousands of text messages exchanged between the two on city pagers.

Or, maybe we'll decide we have nothing to add to what you might already be hearing on NPR's All Things Considered or Morning Edition, in which case, we'll pass.

We'll see.

Now that we've gotten that out of the way, I am going to immerse myself in loftier matters and finish Madeleine Albright's book Memo to the President Elect. We plan to bring you a conversation with the former Secretary of State tomorrow.

Hey! Maybe Albright should add an epilogue. Memo to the Current Governors/Future Presidents: Stay Away from Prostitutes, No Matter how Expensive They Are ... You Can't Afford it No Way.

Michel Martin

5:41 PM ET | 03-11-2008 | permalink | comments (1) | e-mail post

After the Two-Step ...

Lee, here ...

This is going to be quick. A few of us are running off to a fancy dinner this evening, honoring the contributions of famous African Americans to the media arts landscape.

But, we wanted to get your feedback on last night's primary presidential elections contests in Ohio, Rhode Island, Texas and Vermont. NPR offered extensive coverage of what was being unoficially branded as the Junior Super Tuesday, so if you haven't yet been caught up to speed on the results, you can find them here.

After last night's sweeping wins, it's now safe to presume that Arizona GOP Sen. John McCain is in position to receive his party's nomination. Not much of a surprise there.

But, on the Democratic side, Sen. Hillary Clinton, once again, became the mighty comeback kid (her first comeback moment during primary season was her New Hampshire win, after losing sorely to Sen. Barack Obama at the Iowa caucuses), winning Ohio, Rhode Isand and Texas. However, according to most recent reports, Obama seemed to be winning the Texas Democratic caucuses. (The state has this system, perplexing to many outside the state, called the "Texas Two-Step." I won't even try to explain it, but you can read more about how it works -- and the frustration it seems to be causing since last night -- here.)

Are you in Texas, or Ohio? The campaigns there were pretty rigourous. What's your take on the Democratic results? Any surprises?

And, as always, if your state has yet to participate in a primary elections process, we also want to hear how/if the proceeding contests are shaping your vote ...

Lee Hill

4:27 PM ET | 03- 5-2008 | permalink | comments (2) | e-mail post

Free Your Mind

I traveled to Houston this weekend for a conversation about politics and the presidential campaign, held at Windsor Village United Methodist Church's Power Center.

Why did I go (since I am always complaining about not getting enough sleep, or having enough time)?

Well, let's go back to August 2005 and one of the five deadliest storms in U.S. history. I went to Houston, where the city was housing evacuees at the Houston Astrodome/Reliant Park complex. One of the greatest stories we covered was not about what government agencies did (or did not do), but what individuals did -- people who got into their cars, drove over to the Houston Astrodome, rolled up their sleeves and pitched in. These are people who sat up throughout the night -- sorting clothes, preparing food -- and called relatives in distant states to help those whose contact information had been washed away in dirty water ...

And, most remarkable, many of these are people who gathered up whole families and brought them into their own homes to get them out of crowded (clean, safe and well run, but still crowded and not very private) conditions at the Astrodome.

Many of the people I met came from Windsor Village United Methodist Church.

Certainly, thousands of people did this. Someday, someone will tell that story the way it deserves to be told. But, working at Nightline at the time, I could only tell one. ... I got to tell about Miss Grace and her family, who gathered no less than five people (whom she had never met) and brought them to her home. She was a member of Windsor Village's congregation.

We were able to stop by the church for services, where I met I don't know how many other people who were doing the same thing, not to mention family members who were sheltering 25-30 relatives in their homes.

So, when Roland Martin called to say Pastor Kirbyjon Caldwell's folks were having this forum and asked could I come help out, what do you think I would say?

I do have more to share about what we talked about at the forum, and I will admit I was brain frozen on a question about the economic stimulus plans offered by the candidates.

(Why should I lie? I generally master subjects by doing stories about them (this is one we plan to get to this week. Now you know why I am never running for anything political, and why I don't play poker. ... I am great at Trivial Pursuit, though. And Scrabble. Don't try to play me. Not bragging, just a fact.)

Another issue I want to talk about from the event was a question that pained me all weekend. It's from someone who worried that if Sen. Barack Obama becomes President and does not succeed in the role, it will make life worse for African Americans by stimulating racism.

I still stand by my answer because this is something we have to stop. We have to stop permitting ourselves to be trapped by this notion that as minorities, we all have to be accountable for everything that one of us does -- good or bad.

But, what I wish I had said -- and what I did not have time to say -- is that there is a reason people feel that way:

Years ago, when I was a young journalist starting out at The Washington Post,

Continue reading "Free Your Mind" »

Michel Martin

6:19 PM ET | 03- 3-2008 | permalink | comments (1) | e-mail post

Protecting Barack: Is Obama a Target for Harm?

Sen. Barack Obama greets supporters in Springfield, Illinois following his February 2007 announcement that he would seek the Democratic nomination for President.

Getty Images

Lee, here ...

Our top conversation today was a difficult one to have.

Since Senator Barack Obama even looked like he might run for president, there's been this chatter about whether he'd be harmed. For instance, I have an aunt (we'll just call her Aunt G.), who thinks well of Obama -- she finds him competent to lead, she appreciates his politics, what appears to be a solid family life (she adores Michelle Obama) and the historical significance of his campaign. ... But, she also lived through the 1960s and through, in just a ten year period, the assassination of four massively influential leaders -- John F. Kennedy ('63), Malcolm X ('65), the Rev. Martin Luther King, Jr. ('68) and Robert Kennedy ('68). All of the men mobilized people to thought and action, and offered messages of inspiration in different sociological contexts. The weight of Obama, at some point or another, has been mentioned in relation to all four of those men.

Aunt G. refused to vote for Barack Obama, the candidate she clearly favors. She seems to believe she's doing him, his wife Michelle and young daughters a favor.

I shared that story with a few others, and found that Aunt G.'s reasoning is not at all unique. The truth is, there are many strong feelings out there about a black man's prospects of 1) winning the Democratic nomination, 2) winning the presidency and 3) doing all of the above and walking away with his life.

Today, we talked to U.S. Rep. Bennie Thompson, a Democrat from Mississippi and the chairman of the House Committee on Homeland Security. We also checked in with Mark Potok whose job it is to monitor the activity of hate groups and extremists (just when I thought my days were stressful) as Director of the Southern Poverty Law Center's Intelligence Project. Thompson and Potok offered insight that you might find enlightening. ... But, like I said, it was also a difficult conversation to have, so I can't guarantee that the listening experience will leave you smiling. I can, however, hope that you will walk away knowing a little bit more about the gritty realities of the world we live in. Racism is far from expunged from American culture.

Curious to hear from you ...

Are these sentiments of "concern" only held within African American communities? Do other groups think this way about Obama? ... About Senator Hillary Clinton, who'd also be a "first" if her campaign is successful through November? ... About other's who dare to break through traditionally marble ceilings?

Please, tell us more on where you come out on this.

Lee Hill

5:25 PM ET | 02-27-2008 | permalink | comments (7) | e-mail post

Boos and Politics

Sen. Barack Obama, left, and Sen. Hillary Clinton sit for a recent Democratic presidential debate on CNN.

Getty Images

Lee, here ...

Wondering if you caught any of last night's Democratic presidential debate on CNN last night. Many expected it to be quite the smack-down between Sen. Barack Obama and Sen. Hillary Clinton. But the discourse was civil, for the most part.

Of course, then there was that "... change you can Xerox" line that didn't go over so well with the audience.

But, I have to ask, is it no longer reasonable to expect some civility from an audience at a presidential debate? Since when is it OK to express disapproval, or disagreement, with a unified resounding booooo from the audience? There's something just a little fabulous ... and maybe medieval ... about that.

Agree, disagree?

And ...

In today's Barbershop, we discussed a scuffle between Tavis Smiley (former NPR host) and Barack Obama. It's all over a perceived Obama snub at participating in Smiley's State of the Black Union symposium, happening this weekend. Our popular shop guy, Jimi Izrael, blogged on the ordeal the other day. Check out the post. It offers Jimi's thoughts, and more on how this became a "situation" that so many folks now feel compelled to chime in on.

Also, famed writer, director, producer, Alan McElroy made his TMM Barbershop debut this week. Welcome to the fold, Alan!

Enjoy your weekend ... We hope to meet you back here on Monday.

Lee Hill

5:19 PM ET | 02-22-2008 | permalink | comments (3) | e-mail post

John and Cindy, Barack and Michelle, Hillary and Bill ...

Lee, here...

Wins in Hawaii and Wisconsin strengthened Sen. Barack Obama's winning streak since Super Tuesday, while Sen. John McCain trailblazes ahead in lead position to win the GOP nomination for president. Sen. Hillary Clinton, with 10 straight defeats, isn't holding back any punches at Obama, brewing recent allegations of plagiarism -- a missive aimed directly at Obama's noted oratory.

And now, there's this rumbling bewteen the spouses. Here's a recent comment by Michelle Obama about being proud to be an American:

... Which appeared to trigger this response by Cindy McCain:

Michelle Obama has since attempted to clarify her comments, and there was clearly some immediate damage control by McCain's troop in the video above.

But it looks like John McCain and Barack Obama are now exchanging direct jabs. Does this at all reflect a presumption that Obama will become the Democratic nominee? ... Is this safe to presume?

Clearly, there are two significant primaries just ahead in Ohio and Texas, although a recent Texas poll shows Clinton ahead of Obama by just two points there, a statistical tie. A recent Ohio poll shows Clinton with a nine point lead in the state.

Bill Clinton is saying that a loss in Texas could mean the end for his wife.

There are a few events and developments, however, that could change (or strengthen) some things for the Democratic candidates. Performance in an upcoming CNN debate (pundits say Clinton typically outperforms Obama in debate formats) could influence undecided voters, as well as new endorsements (Obama just received support from the Teamsters union; Cleveland Mayor Frank Jackson is expected to endorse Obama soon).

If you're in Texas or Ohio, and are an undecided voter, what does all of this mean to you? And, if you're in another state that has yet to participate in the primary elections process (PA, NC, MS, KY, etc.), we're wondering how your support is being influenced, if at all...

Coming up, TMM's international news day. Hear unique perspectives on Kosovo's newfound independence from Serbia ... from a younger generation.

Lee Hill

6:30 PM ET | 02-20-2008 | permalink | comments (2) | e-mail post

Perfect Political Weather

Lee, here...

So, we made it through the so-called Potomac Primary, our region's own Super Tuesday, when voters in the District of Columbia, Maryland and Virginia participate in the nation's primary elections process.

Of course, Tuesday brought the perfect weather for voting (insert sarcasm here) -- icy, rainy and cold. In fact, I know of at least two of our producers who didn't even make to the polls (yeah, they were pretty upset, too). Why? They were trapped for hours in what became an extended evening rush hour, due to the weather.

Nevertheless, much of the region did have their say at the polls and Democratic Sen. Barack Obama and Republican Sen. John McCain emerged as winners here.

What did the wins suggest for the candidates? And what does it mean for upcoming contests in Hawaii, Wisconsin, Ohio and Texas? We had a conversation with Shailagh Murray, a political reporter for the Washington Post. If you haven't already, take a listen to her observations.

Looking ahead, Thursday is our international news day. You can plan to hear a conversation on love that transcends geographical borders, just in time for Valentine's Day ...

Lee Hill

6:14 PM ET | 02-13-2008 | permalink | comments (0) | e-mail post

Plenty of Lessons this Tuesday

Today is another election day, so we are limited in what we can talk about during the program. The rule of thumb here is that we try not to produce anything that can be construed as advocacy while the polls are open and folks are still voting. So, your NPR station will, no doubt, be keeping you up to date tonight, especially here in the D.C. area.

But, were you as puzzled as I was/am by the whole superdelegates thing? It's an issue on the Democratic side (the Republicans don't have that system). Our two guests, high-powered D.C. lawyer Stanley Brand and author and strategist David Sirota, tell us what superdelegates are all about, and why this is turning into such a mud wrestle.

Also, a new feature, we hope you'll like it as much as we do. It's the ethics column from O, the Oprah Magazine. As you know, we do a monthly feature with who we call the Magazine Mavens, editors of some of the top women's magazines, but we don't get to dig into any one feature as much as we might like. When we started reading the ethics column in O, we just couldn???t get enough. You can read the column for yourself. I hope you get as much out of visiting with the guests as much as I did.

Finally, the Mocha Moms are mad at me! They had lots more to say about the lessons they've learned as the chief administrators of big families. So, we invited them to blog it out.

Here's Mocha Moms co-founder and TMM regular Jolene Ivey:

... I think it's important for children to contribute to the household. Parents can't do it all, and kids need to learn these life skills! ... For several months I had my older boys each cook dinner one night per week. They each cooked the same meal each week until they mastered it. (We did get tired of quiche, while one of them struggled with the crust, so we switched him to chicken pot pie.) Now, I can call home and give basic instructions, and I know dinner will be cooking before I get home! ... Laundry is my least favorite, and never-ending, household chore. I hate folding, I despise putting away, and I never feel like I'm completely on top of it. I've done a few things to take some of the pain away, though. For instance, one great way I've found to avoid Stray Socks Syndrome is to buy a bunch of those mesh laundry bags meant for delicate clothing. I have my boys put several pair in each bag, as they take them off, and when they're washed and dried, they're already mostly matched. I also have two dirty clothes hampers in each bedroom -- one white, for things that will be washed in hot water, and one is another color, for things that will be washed in cold water. No sorting! Whenever possible, I call the boys up to help fold. The youngest is 8, so they can actually get most of it done with minimal yelling on my part. ... It's also important to lower your standards, in the interest of sanity. I look back on the days when I had one baby, and I used cloth diapers and actually hung them on the line to dry, then FOLDED THEM! How stupid was that? The hanging to dry was actually therapeutic, and they smelled so good coming off the line. But folding diapers? What was I thinking?! Rookie mistake. I even went through a phase, when we had two boys, that I made the cats' food. I was obsessed with it being organic. I mean, most of us have made baby food, but cat food? I clearly needed more children. ...

From Mocha Mom Cheli English-Figaro:

Continue reading "Plenty of Lessons this Tuesday" »

Michel Martin

3:42 PM ET | 02-12-2008 | permalink | comments (0) | e-mail post

Could Latino Voters Hold Key to Dem Nominee?

There's a lot going on today, so this is going to be quick. We have a very special guest coming, so I have to clear out of the studio so they can set up.

All of our guests are special, of course, but most don't travel with TRUNKS of equipment. Check this out: there are six music stands in here, five mic stands -- each outfitted with headphones and a console -- a drum kit, a bunch of locked trunks containing I know not what, and reams of chords and plugs.

There will be MUSIC in the house later on. You'll get to hear it on our program next week.

Want to know who it is?

Not. Telling.

But, we are sure you'll like it.

Want a hint?

The title of the artist's first album is something most of us use everyday. That's all I'm going to say right now.

Moving on ...

Today, we wanted to dig into one of the nagging questions in this election: how will Latinos vote, and how will that vote be influenced? There has been a lot of debate about this percolating in various forums ...

There's a column by one of our regulars Ruben Navarrette.

There's another piece by Gregory Rodriguez, whom we've also had on the program.

And there's The New Yorker piece that's gotten a lot of attention.

... One in the Chicago Tribune.

... And, Gebe Martinez's recent piece for Politico.

The gist of it seems to be, will Latinos vote for a black candidate?

Do Latinos identify more with white than black? Or, is this all nonsense and a matter of which candidate is running a stronger campaign?

Is the strength of name recognition at work?

And just how big is this sleeping giant of Latino voters, and when will it wake up? Or, has it already?

Those are some of the issues we talked about today.

Enjoy your weekend.

Michel Martin

2:40 PM ET | 02- 8-2008 | permalink | comments (3) | e-mail post

Romney Steps Aside

Lee, here...

As you might know by now, there are new developments in the race for '08. Mitt Romney has announced that he is bowing out, or "suspending" his GOP presidential campaign. In pretty strong words (and maybe the most energetic that we've heard from him, until now), says that remaining in the race would hinder the Republican party's bid for the White House and, in turn, increase the chances of Hillary Clinton or Barack Obama winning the presidency ... which would translate into "aiding a surrender to terror."

Talk about famous last words.

And, check in with us as we wrap up the week in our Political Chat, we'll talk about the Latino vote. According to CNN exit polls on Super Tuesday, Clinton overwhelmingly won the Hispanic vote in California (69 percent, compared to Obama's 29 percent) and New York (73 percent, compared to Obama's 26 percent). But some dispute any assumptions that Latinos feel closer to Clinton as a candidate. We plan to bring you two Latino voices who'll offer a unique perspective on this...

Michel Martin

4:24 PM ET | 02- 7-2008 | permalink | comments (1) | e-mail post

Itching to Vote

iStock

Lee, here...

Folks everywhere are still mulling over Super Tuesday results and looking ahead to what's next in the increasingly nail-biting race for the White House. Two political experts came on to help us sort through Tuesday's results. Stephanie Cutter directed communication efforts for Sen. John Kerry's 2004 presidential campaign and Sarah Taylor was a White House political director under President George W. Bush.

Arizona Sen. John McCain seems to have reinforced his standing as GOP frontrunner, but not with as much comfort as he might have expected. Former Massachusetts Governor Mitt Romney and former Arkansas Governor Mike Huckabee proved to the naysayers (especially Huckabee, whom many pundits all but discounted completely) that they are still to be taken seriously about their presidential pursuits, although both trail McCain by about 400 delegates.

I heard Huckabee compare his ambitions to the those of the New York Giants going into Super Bowl XLII to face the undefeated (until they lost, of course) New England Patriots.

There's nothing wrong with hope, right?

Things aren't as clear for the Democrats. New York Sen. Hillary Clinton and Illinois Sen. Barack Obama both had significant victories -- and losses -- on Tuesday. Clinton's wins in California, New York and Massachusetts (despite the Kennedy and Kerry endorsements of Obama) were helped with her favoring among women and Latino voters. Obama's win in 13 states, compared to Clinton's win in eight, flexed his pull among both voters under 40 and black voters.

From where we stand, Clinton and Obama are working hard to make certain that any advances between the two of them are razor-thin (the contest in New Mexico remains too close to call), likening the Democratic race to an edge-of-your-seat suspense thriller ... Who will "survive" to represent the party in November?

Grab the popcorn. Looks like it's going to be a long one.

Have you already participated in the presidential primaries? If not, aren't you just itching to vote? I am. And, it looks like for the first time in a while, our region ... the Potomac region (Washington, D.C., Maryland and Virginia) might actually have a significant say in who becomes the next president.

We're usually up after Super Tuesday, so we vote willingly, but knowing that the picture is sometimes pretty much painted by the time we pull out our brushes. Not so, this time. Neither the GOP race, nor the Democratic race (especially) is a done deal ... candidates are counting delegates like beans.

And, aside from the political fare, we also thought it would good to bring you stories in commemoration of Black History Month. Harvard professor and renowned author Henry Louis is at the center of a film airing tonight on PBS, African-American Lives 2. Gates journeys with an impressive list of celebrities -- Tina Turner, Tom Joyner, Chris Rock and Don Cheadle, to name a few -- as they uncover mysteries of their African lineage. Gates tells us Chris Rock's discovery even takes an emotional turn...

Chris Rock? Emotional? No...

We'll check in with you again later. Until then, drop us a line and tell us your thoughts on thee '08 elections, and how you're commemorating Black History Month.

Lee Hill

3:32 PM ET | 02- 6-2008 | permalink | comments (3) | e-mail post

AP: Edwards, Giuliani Exiting Race

Still waiting to hear more. The Associated Press is reporting that former senator John Edwards is set to drop out of the Democratic presidential race this afternoon. Former New York Mayor Rudolph Giuliani is also expected to exit the Republican race today.

More to come as we know it...

Lee Hill

9:59 AM ET | 01-30-2008 | permalink | comments (4) | e-mail post

TMM's Rat Race

Sorry I couldn't catch up with you yesterday. We were running around. I'm not going to lie to you -- certain frontrunning presidential candidates were in town with certain people, who decided to endorse them and we were trying to, you know, work some magic. The sparkle dust hasn't worked yet. (I am sure I am one of a select group of 20,000 people who would like those interviews.)

Then, we ran up to Capitol Hill to catch up with a Democratic leader to discuss the State of the Union speech. You'll remember we had White House Counselor Ed Gillespie on yesterday to preview the speech; we had on House Majority Whip James Clyburn (D-SC) today.

We talked to Gillespie yesterday because it's custom for the White House to start offering briefings throughout the day to key groups -- congressional leaders get a briefing, the big cheese news anchors get a briefing at the White House (never been invited to that, harrumph! ... I wonder if they get lunch). When I was a White House correspondent (for the Wall Street Journal), it was actually pretty stressful. We would have to go and physically pick-up an embargoed (translation: I'll tell you, but don't tell anybody else until I say so) copy of the speech at about 4 p.m., RUN back to the office and make copies for everybody on "beats" (subject areas assigned to reporters) so they could check it out. Some of our more anxious colleagues would literally wait by the copier. ... Do they still do that? Why not just hit a button and e-mail it? Come to think of it, we had e-mail then, too, so I wonder why they did it that way.

Anyway, this is a big-time ritual here in the Washington press corp. And I know that by the time you read this, you will have heard hours of coverage by everybody.

So why don't we skip it?

Continue reading "TMM's Rat Race" »

Michel Martin

3:30 PM ET | 01-29-2008 | permalink | comments (13) | e-mail post

Full News Weekend Includes Detroit's Crisis

Detroit Mayor Kwame Kilpatrick

AP

Lee, here...

We hit the ground running today, beginning the last week of January at turbo speeds. Michel Martin headed to Capitol Hill shortly after today's program to record a conversation with a leading congressman that we hope to bring you tomorrow.

Mondays are funny. Technically, we have the weekends "off." But, in this business, we're never really not working. We were BlackBerry'd to several developments this weekend -- the Democratic presidential primary in South Carolina, Caroline Kennedy's endorsement of Sen. Barack Obama (her uncle, Sen. Ted Kennedy, followed her lead this morning), the death of former Indonesian dictator Suharto and the latest developments in Kenya's post-election violence.

And, President Bush will address the nation tonight in his final State of the Union briefing. There's much anticipation, as usual, on what matters will make the final cut in the hour-long (give or take, considering applause breaks) speech. It's probably safe to expect that a few issues -- economic stimulus, the Iraq war, and the usual recognition of select "ordinary" citizens with notable stories to tell -- will set the frame work for the speech. We plan to offer a recap of the President's address tomorrow.

We're also keeping an eye on a situation happening about 500 miles to the west of us in Detroit. The city has been rocked by a scandal involving its mayor, Kwame Kilpatrick, who is serving his second-term. There are allegations that Kilpatrick and his chief of staff, Christine Beatty, perjured themselves on the stand last year during proceedings of a civil suit when asked about the dismissal of a high profile police official and ... allegations of a sexual relationship between Kilpatrick and Beatty. Just today, Beatty officially resigned from her post, so there's already one professional casualty. Opinions seem mixed on whether the mayor will survive the scandal. Folks are still waiting to hear from Kilpatrick, who's kept a low profile since the Detroit Free Press broke the story last week.

In addition to our Barbershop talk, we've been thinking about how to further cover this story, if at all, in a valuable way that brings it out of Detroit -- it's a HUGE local story there. Certainly, there's been a long list of city hall scandals in this country. A quick web search on Antonio Villaraigosa (L.A.), Rudy Giuliani (New York), Marion Barry (D.C.), Bill Campbell (Atlanta) or John Norquist (Milwaukee) will take you behind closed doors of many of this nation's well known (and still, in some cases, well regarded) city leaders.

But with a city in distress, a popular leader left fighting for his political career, and, perhaps most importantly, two families (Kilpatrick and Beatty both have young children) involuntarily thrust into tabloid headlines, it can be difficult for any of the parties involved to emerge as a winner if the allegations are true.

We'll bring you more as we know it...

Lee Hill

4:39 PM ET | 01-28-2008 | permalink | comments (10) | e-mail post

Hillary Clinton, Michelle Obama Visit TMM

What a way to end the week! We visited with Sen. Hillary Clinton and Michelle Obama, wife of Democratic presidential candidate Sen. Barack Obama.

If I told you how and when those interviews came together, you would laugh so hard. Suffice it to say, there's a reason your humble host stays up LATE to read the papers, websites and RSS feeds, NO MATTER WHAT. It's because you do not know -- between the time you go to bed and the time you wake up -- what might be happening. Ya know what I'm saying?

So, like that.

It is obvious to me that South Carolina is still in play. An Ebony/JET magazine poll, done by one of our frequent TMM guests, veteran pollster Ron Lester, shows Obama with a 10-point lead. But the media push by both campaigns suggests to me that neither is taking anything for granted.

And, the other question is: does native son John Edwards still have a chance to break through? We heard so many supportive remarks about him when we were in South Carolina earlier this week, but does that translate into votes. And, does the increasingly bitter tone between Obama and Clinton chance the dynamic?

We'll know on Monday. Until then, have a great weekend.

Let us know where you think this conversation should go from here. I have some ideas, but I want to hear yours.

Michel Martin

4:55 PM ET | 01-25-2008 | permalink | comments (6) | e-mail post

Dirty Politics or Smart Tactics?

In Columbia, S.C. ...

Loyalty. Integrity. Honesty. Character. Racial Solidarity. Toughness.

Those were all the issues being debated here as the presidential campaign swept through S.C. We arrived just in time for the voting on the GOP side. We got a chance to talk with a few voters and operatives about how their campaigns progressed. And we read the coverage, which was fascinating, especially the question of how past campaign tactics may have played into this year's campaign (for those who don't remember, Republican presidential hopeful John McCain was the target of what many now consider a dirty tricks campaign in 2000. Similar tactics surfaced this time, but it didn't work). But the turnout was down among Republican voters here -- off by some 200,000. What did that mean? Was it the nasty weather -- because it was wet and COLD -- or the nasty tone?

That was a question that will probably be asked this weekend as the Democrats head to the polls Saturday.

Last night's CNN debate (co-sponsored by the Congressional Black Caucus) was really notable for the sharpness of the attacks between Obama and Clinton. Now, as everybody knows, politics ain't bean bag. And at every point, in just about every hard-fought, close campaign there is a time when people start to get down with it. But you could hear the gasps in the audience when those two went at it. How does that play? Is it the veteran going after the young'un to see what he's made of? ... The "white woman" going after the "black guy?" ... All the while with John Edwards not seeming very happy at being "the white guy" but clearly reaching for role of statesman above the fray?

My Blackberry started burning up -- What are they doing? This is terrible! Nobody wants to hear this!

Well now, that depends. Clearly, negative campaigning continues because it "works." The point is to get the most votes, not to win Miss or Mr. Congeniality. But the tactic carries risks. Do you turn off more people than you attract? Do you turn on the right people, turn off the right ones?

I cannot wait to hear what the voters are saying about all this. I think we all have to be honest -- how we react to all this depends so much on who we are, what we care about, how our loyalties and sensitivities shake out. And politics at