Clooney: Obama for POTUS

For the first time I can agree with a celebrity on a political stance. Senator Obama should run for president. I would vote for him!

I think Clooney's a dim bulb next to just about anyone.

Dear Swamp,

Please keep me informed when George Clooney, Alec Baldwin, Barbra Streisand, et al decide who the next Vice President, governor of Illinois, and dog catcher. I'm REALLY interested in their opinions, because they're just SO important.

Wow. Looks like we have ourselves a ticket. Obama/Clooney in 08?

I'm confused. Did Clooney mean president of the United States, or president of the Sudan ???????

Obama in '08!!!!!

I'm a big Clooney fan and have been impressed with Obama as well. But isn't the issue here the slaughter going on in Darfur? Both presidential candidates gave a ton of lip service to the issue two years ago, but neither have done anything about it since. Does the Tribune's blog even care about what the real discussion was?

I agree with George, Obama should run for the Presidency. It is like the gods of politics have sent us a potential savior. We should pay attention. And I nominate Al Franken for vice-president, seriously.

2008 is too early for Senator Obama. And if he tried, he'd just get caught in the death march of the Clinton campaign...of course, assuming he gets reelected in 2010, he should be in the perfect place to take over from President Allen in 2012. Just avoid the poisoned chalice of the vice presidential nomination.

Obama is simply a political prostitute. Only when he starts taking a stand on real issues will we be able determine his worth as a senator, let alone president. The man didn't even bother to back a candidate for the Cook Co. Board President Primary, and he is stumping for Joe Lieberman? C'mon! I thought he was an Illinois senator.

By the way: Bill, I couldn't agree more.

Like Clooney's politics or not, he seems like a cool, regular guy. I dont think you find too much of that in Hollywood these days.

I agree with George but Obama's too intelligent to run in '08 -- he's gotta know he needs a slowly building groundswell as opposed to what may look like a flash in the pan to some people. Unfortunately, I doubt enough voters are savvy enough to see his amazing qualities.

Can someone please explain to me why Obama is the greatest politician ever? Seriously, what has he done? The way people talk about the freshman senator you would think he's cured cancer. Way over-rated.

Lets worry about the problems in the USA, before we worry about the other countries. We have to stop being the "police force" of the world. There are many Americans who need help. If Obama is so worried about Darfur, let him go live there. Lets
keep things here in the USA and let the rest of the world fend for themselves, for a change. I'm
tired of seeing my tax dollars being wasted on helping people in foreign countries. If Obama runs in 08, I'll move to Canada!

Obama is simply a political prostitute. Only when he starts taking a stand on real issues will we be able determine his worth as a senator, let alone president. The man didn't even bother to back a candidate for the Cook Co. Board President Primary, and he is stumping for Joe Lieberman? C'mon! I thought he was an Illinois senator.

By the way: Bill, I couldn't agree more.

Obama is simply a political prostitute. Only when he starts taking a stand on real issues will we be able determine his worth as a senator, let alone president. The man didn't even bother to back a candidate for the Cook Co. Board President Primary, and he is stumping for Joe Lieberman? C'mon! I thought he was an Illinois senator.

By the way: Bill, I couldn't agree more.

Abama for President? Clooney must know, after all, he's on TV and everyone likes him. I agree, make Obama president of AlecBaldwinian where Alec, George, Rosie, and Barbara can go create their perfect world.

Hmmm, very interesting. We have two guys here that are opposed to the war in Iraq, which was necessary to stop the brutality of Saddam. However, they now want to step in and stop the killing of thousands of people - how do they suppose that will be accomplished? Military action! It's obvious that neither of these guys have the right to talk about politics because they cannot think logically. If the conservatives are for it, without thinking, the liberals are against it. Hollywood has no right talking about politics - they are just like every other liberal and can only do one thing... put on an act to please their audience.

Obama has wings on his back and this country cannot afford to look a gifthorse in the mouth; ever, or particularly now. Clooney should be listened to; he's a lot more intelligent and informed than most, in or out of Hollywood. Everyone should ask themselves, if you had the celebrity and the nation's interest, to what would you draw attention; yourself, which is what most do, or human suffering? If you want to throw stones at someone, do so at people who think only of themselves.

Oh. To those who believe it might be too early for Sen. Obama to run for President--it's never too early when you have the right answers. Mickey Mantle entered the majors at 19 I believe. You wouldn't want to keep in the minors too long.

where's my comment and what about it contains foul language, commercial messages, irrelevancies or unfair attacks.
I made a valid supported point in language that was anything but obscene (I see the word prostitute in your paper on a regular basis)
I guess Obama can do no wrong as far as the trib is concerned. I have been a loyal trib reader since I was 13, and you people just keep pushing me away.

Please respond to my email address if you value my business at all.

Obama should run for president, however, '08 is a bit soon. If you were born in America, or an Immigrant who becomes a citizen and neither have been convicted of treason; it is your right to express your pinions about the people and laws that govern these United States. It is called freedom of speech. Why can't George Clooney express his views without getting a bad rap. If you want someone to hear what 'you' have to say, then get a bullhorn and stand on a street corener and scream or write a book, get a talk show or run for public office if you have the balls. But to knock actors for sharing his/her opinion in public is a bad rap. But on the other hand opinions are like a-- h----everybody has one.

Re: Bill's opinion of celebrities' political opinions, their opinions are just as important as yours. Think about it, take your time.

There are gods of politics? Oh, come now, all ye faithful.

Obama isn't a savior -- he's a brilliant, honorable man. Give him his due credit.

Al Franken wouldn't get to have as much fun as he does if he became an elected official. He deserves to have some fun. After all, he's good enough, he's smart enough and, doggone it, people like him.

Nobody likes a politician. Except for Barack Obama -- everybody loves him except for the right-wingers.

And nobody likes a right-winger. [grin]

While points Clooney made in reference to the Kennedy/Obama comparison are accurate - remember that Kennedy was considered to be the front runner for the VP nomination in '56, but was wisely encouraged to sit that one out. He did, and won in '60. Obama in 2012.

Clooney's pictures are a flop; Obama better run from this guy.

RE: Jim's opinion of Bill's opinion. If their opinions are just as important as ours, than why aren't reporters clamoring to break news on your opinion? I wish my opinion held the same influence as Clooney's. Big stars get big coverage for even the dumbest ideas. What kind of people look to drama students for guidance on national issues? Think about it, take your time.

Obama looks appealing because he is surrounded by
idiots from both political parties in Washington.

He has a little charisma but that don't make a President.

George Clooney should stick to acting.

Clooney should use his acting skill to infiltrate the Janjaweed and provide intelligence.

The future of Sudan depends upon it.

George Clooney got this one right! I'm hoping Senator Obama runs for President someday soon also. It would change America and the World's view of the U.S. within 30 days of his inauguration! Senator Obama's autobiography, mentioned here: http://www.billslater.com/who_is_barack_obama.htm is a great read and reveals much about hia character and his thinking, and how he came to be the person he is. I urge anyone who wants to learn more about Senator Obama, to get his autobiography, and also to pre-order his upcoming book, The Audacity of Hope, at Amazon.com. Keep up the great work, Senator Obama!!!

I think we should be focusing on the problems here in this country prior to getting involved in another bloody protracted conflict. In particular, let’s start by taking care of the homeless people and murder rates here in the U.S. (daily killings, babies in dumpsters, stray bullets etc) and then impeaching the president and the vice president. Once we are squared away here, then maybe we can play world police.

Also, to those who don’t know, the American oligarchy only gets involved in conflicts (WWII, Korea, Vietnam, Iraq etc) when there is something to gain (saving the U.S. economy and Caucasian lives, oil, a win over the commies, proving new weapons etc). We won’t do anything because Africa doesn’t really have anything of value (in our Governments eyes) and the Gov’t generally doesn’t care about Africans. When this happens in Europe or in some place with large oil reserves it is ALWAYS a different story. The bottom line is that we are always looking for good reasons to throw our muscle around for the benefit of the American oligarchy. I am of European descent and don’t have a problem admitting this - so why is it so hard for our leaders and people to get with reality and start making a difference?!?! Its time to start making some changes here right now! I think the bottom line is that nobody in Washington wants to be the next JFK or MLK.

Barack Obama for President and hopefully, sooner rather than later!!!

I agree with George Clooney. Senator Obama would be a breath of fresh air in the Oval Office, an articulate, thoughtful, and honest presence. 2008 is the perfect time for him to run as the perfect counterpoint to the other dozen politicos who will run. My only issue with Mr. Clooney, and many other Hollywood actors who take political stands, is why doesn't he run for office himself? Senator, Congressman, Governor of California would all be options for this man. The democrats would thank their lucky stars. Unfortunately these people don't run, they would rather speak their views from the sidelines when they could really be making a difference. I read recently that Martin Sheen was offered a chance to run for Senator from his home state of Ohio but turned it down stating that he didn't feel he was qualified. He is an intelligent man like Mr. Clooney with strong political views and I'm sure he could easily surround himself with bright political operatives. Why shouldn't he run? I do pay attention to the views of well educated celebrities, but I wish they would use that fame and education to better use.

Obama is Hilary's lapdog, nothing more. He went to Washington as Illinois' representative, and came back as the mouthpiece for the DNC powers-that-be (Reid, Clinton, et al..).

Sure, Barack is smart, mostly book-smart. He's polished, and generally "shows" well, like a trial attorney. But if he's not in touch with his constituency, it doesn't matter how eloquent or pretty of a messenger he is. And somewhere in there, I think the guy has forgotten that he serves Illinoisans, and not the Democratic party.

When he was elected, I didn't agree with much of his ideology, but thought he could do a good job for the state, even if he tended to diverge from my way of thinking. Unfortunately, he has added his name to the endless list of senators that have forgotten where they came from on their rise to power.

As for George "Booker" Clooney, for all of his righteous indignation and statement-making, he's just another person with an opinion. The fact that he's using his "celebrity" to shine a light on the atrocities in Darfur is a good thing. That's the real story here - the Sudan. Clooney should save all of his talk about "Barack being 'uniquely' qualified because of his 'ties' to Africa" (I suppose that means he's as qualified as the other 35 million African-Americans...pretty unique indeed!).

My question is when are these celebs ever going to learn that they are not experts on the political landscape, and neither do they hold the moral highground on the country's values? I think, in many cases, they refuse to acknowledge their own irrelevancy on political issues. Face it, Alec Baldwin isn't fighting against Bill O'Reilly on the radio - he's fighting against the fact that America, in general, doesn't take it's moral or political cues from a group of people who party with Paris Hilton, swap wives, float conspiracy theories, and spend more money on a weekend getaway than most people make in a year. Cluephone, Line 1: Joe Lunchbucket doesn't care about the causes that are near and dear to Sharon Stone's heart - they care about feeding their children, caring for their aging parents, keeping their job, and hopefully having enough time and money at the end of the week to take their wife to the movies. So please Alec, George, Sharon, and others, just focus on getting that last part right, and make a few entertaining films that come out at times other than Christmas and Summertime. Leave the moral and political stuff to people who are qualified to do it.

"A" gets an A+ for making the best point I've read in a while in The Swamp.

As for how much Clooney's opinion should matter, I say "zero." ...Except for the fact that Clooney has a lot of money and a lot of friends with money. But so what, votes win elections, not money? (Sorry. Got carried away there.)

As for the substance of Clooney's opinion (and this is what bugs Republicans), it is brilliant.

Hillary (the Republican choice and that of some Democrats) would actually benefit from a strong, respectful challenge by Obama. If she can beat Obama, she'd not only deserve the nomination, she'd likely go on to beat anyone the Republicans could put up.

After 8 years of Bushisms (really, how kind would Republicans be to a guy who speaks as if he barely completed third grade- and that's an insult to many third graders), it's time for a president who can speak the English language and doesn't rely on everyone else to do the heavy-lifting for him.

I'm a staunch Republican and I feel Obama has a chance to be legitimate presidential nominee. Maybe ten to twelve years down the road. But if he is going to do it, he better run very far away from the likes of Clooney..Middle America may love him in the movies but they are very turned off on his politics.

I think George Clooney should drop the "C" in his last name and go by "Looney". It's a much more descriptive moniker of what this guy is all about.

Yeah, Obama is so brilliant. I love how his brilliance panned out while he stumped for that candidate for treasurer's office. You know the guy in which IL investigations into criminal activity might begin soon?
And regarding the Sudan. The U.S. has tried to get the UN to do something. But France has blocked it and the UN isn't really interested in doing anything, par for the course. And these same people who do want the U.S. to send in troops, etc. are the same people criticizing Bush for getting involved in Iraq. Course, they are similar in situation, even though Hussein was more of a worlwide threat. But facts and logic escape the We Hate Bush Liberal faction.

Why, in heaven's name, did we give any political capital to the likes of actors. These are not the creme de la creme of American intelligentsia. Obama?! Someone, please, pray tell, what has this person DONE? Oh, I think I'm going to be sick...

RE: Curt's comment: "He has a little charisma but that don't make a President."

I question what does make a president: Lots of family money, a weakness for booze and idiocy, and corporate handlers that have friends in the right places?

Bush has let down 95% Americans time and again. The other 5% couldn't care less about Sudan or anything else other than their bank balance.

Shouldn't Obama actually accomplish something before running for president?

Is Obama a citizen? If not, what the heck are they talking about? I agree with the others, first, what has he really done for Illinois? We have the Guv raiding the state pension fund, hiring cronies, teachers aren't getting any raises, etc. Plus what about the high state taxes on gasoline?? Help at home first, then you can help Sudan. What has any foreign country done for us, anyway?

I am still trying to figure out what it is that Barrack Obama has ever done? Can anyone tell me what this guy has ever done?

I don't think the buzz about Obama is because of what he has done(except the DNC speech), but because of who he is: an articulate, thoughtful politician with an interesting background and a certain charisma. As for attacking his lack of accomplishment...well he has only been in office for a little over a year. I'll reserve judgement. I would also remind you that it isn't unusual for the country to elect a president with a short list of accomplishments. The current resident of the White House, a one term governor of Texas, is a good example....Before that he was the general manager of the Texas Rangers.

"We have the Guv raiding the state pension fund, hiring cronies, teachers aren't getting any raises, etc. Plus what about the high state taxes on gasoline??"

U.S. Senators have basically nothing to do with that, regardless of what state they represent. Write your Illinois Representative, Illinois Senator, and vote in the governor election in the fall if you want change. Don't expect someone we elected to be one of our voices in national and international matters to be focusing on purely state matters. Get the people you elected for that job to do their jobs. Voice your opinion and start writing those letters.

And to those asking what Obama has ever done, it's more what he's not done that makes him attractive. What the heck have most Senators and Representatives ever done, besides take money from special interests, vote with their party, and try to win their next election? The very fact that Obama hasn't been in Washington long enough (hopefully) to be tainted with the stink of national politics, and that he is articulate and someone who can 'talk the talk' to bring the swing voters to his side is what makes him so attractive as a candidate.

There's a reason that there hasn't been an elected President that came straight out of Congress for quite some time now. Carter, Reagan, Clinton and W were all governors, and Bush 1 had long since been gone from Congress for many years when he won in '88. And it isn't like they all accomplished great things as governors. The more you do, the more ammo the mudslingers have against you.

Obama in 08? That sounds great, but since dems seem lost most times, I think 2012 would be better for him. Obama, 2012 starts right now

I would like to see Barack Obama on the Democratic ticket in 2008 as the vice presidential candidate with John Edwards at the top.

Fair enough, Obama hasn't been in office long enough to have really accomplished much. (Though he was also a state senator--maybe look up some of the legislation he sponsored?). But if we're questioning his qualifications he has the current dim bulb beat. GWB has never accomplished anything, anywhere, anyhow. Obama can also complete a sentence.

It is anybody's guess who will win if Obama was in the race for Presidency. for those of you ho want to move to Canada (or Texas), or anywhere else, please dont waste your time- just do it.
Given Obama doesnt become a Ryan or Daley, today he is at least brighter than the 0 watt bulb president we have now.

With all the questioning of Obama, namely "what has he ever done?" I'm tempted to ask the same question of the White House's current occupant. Except if I did that, I'm sure the response would be depressing. Obama is well respected because he doesn't seem to be the pandering moron most other national politicians are. That isn't to say he never panders, it's just that he doesn't rush to the camera to talk on any and every hot issue going on that week. Plus, he has the respect of his colleagues. In such a poisonous political climate (caused by "republicans" -- I'll admit that the real conservatives have been silenced pretty effectively) the fact that Obama is able to move so fluidly through both parties while still keeping his integrity is refreshing. Rest assured the guy and his lovely wife will occupy the White House one day. That is, if he wants it.

You should all know that the staunchest Obama-hater on this blog is likely the same person, unable to leave his mom's basement because he doesn't have money for gas. But one day he'll be rich and welcomed into the Bush (read: rich) inner-circle with balloons and buckets of foie-gras.

What has Obama done? What did Bush DO before he ran for president?

He failed as an oilman, only to be bailed out by rich friends of his father who used his name to buy a baseball team. Then he held up the local treasury to build a baseball stadium, only to sell the team at an enormous profit. He became the governor of the state with the weakest governorship in the country.

We were told that he improved the TX schools, only to learn later that the "improvement" was a fraud based on manipulated information (sound familiar?).

What has Obama done? Not anything less than what Bush, Reagan or Nixon did before they ran for the presidency?

What has Obama done? He didn't fall for the lies about WMD. He rejected going to war against a two-bit dictator of a third world country if we were not also willing to risk American lives in Africa to prevent the death and distruction there.

Trying to hold Obama to a higher standard than they held Nixon, Reagan or the Bushes is typical of the Republican party. And just wait until Obama mispronounces a word. He'll be called ignorant and uneducated.

It's double-standard time, Ameria. Fasten your seat belts.

To the writers who ask what has Obama done , ask your conservative butts what had GWB done, before he bacame President. I'm sorry, his dad was president! Oh, Governor of Texas, that really qualified him to be President, didn't it.

Obama campaigned for a candidate for treasurer, who is being investegated. Am I wrong, but didn't some Republican President endorse an honest person running for governor a few years ago named Ryan.

I beleive most people are missing the point. Whether or not you like Clooney or Obama theyare trying do a good thing by brining attention to a genocide to which most Americans are apathetic. Instead of wasting time arguing over politics, spend a minute and find out what you could be doing to help the problem in Darfur.

The REAL story here is about the genocide in Darfur, not about ONE comment George Clooney made. What's your priority here... the hundreds of thousands of people who have died and the continuous violence in Darfur, or a mere seven words Clooney said about Obama?

I think Senator Obama and Senator Clinton would create a fresh beginnning compared to the somewhat disturbing last few years this country has encountered. I dont have a clue how the minimum wage employees, and for that matter the average american, have survived the last 4 years.. Serious changes must happen soon for the hard working American people.

I had dinner with Barack Obama early this month. He is the real deal.

Giving Actors a medium to get involved in politics is similar to Kareoke night at the local bar.

I think we should have the UN write a letter to the Sudan telling them how angry we are with them.

Though it really doesn't matter what views celebreties have, I think Obama should run...just not in 2008. 2012 maybe. He can't do any worse than the current administration. (Neither could a drunken mule).

To Jim,

Hey, I never questioned George Clooney's right to express his opinion. Re-read my post. My question and my exasperation is with why the Chicago Tribune, an otherwise reputable news organization, feels the need to report this non-event in a news story. I guess it must've been a slow day.

Hi! Long time reader first time writer.

I know it’s difficult to put bias opinions aside, but if anyone who has posted to this can: Read the thread.

It seems it’s always right wingers vs. left wingers. So I’ll give you an independent’s point of view.

Darfur is sad. If we went into Iraq to free the people I don’t understand why we can’t go to Darfur. If both are wrong then why can’t we admit it and leave Iraq and not go into Darfur.

What has Sen. Obama done for ME! Not so easy to say. It’s difficult for any member of senate to have a significant effect when the opposite party is in charge. But I will give him this, he is always open to the press and willing to talk about everything. Dick Cheney will not do it, Ted Kennedy will not do it. If you have an issue with him, his appearances are published ahead of time, GO ASK HIM!

I wonder if anyone who has posted here has taken the time to research Obama and meet him. I know after I did, I saw a future Presidential hopeful. Are we as Americans so apathetic to the indiscretions of Clinton and deception of the Bush administration that we can’t even consider an honest family man as President?

Maybe George Clooney is smarter than any of you are giving him credit for being. He's said he isn't qualified to run for office. D'uh! Most politicians aren't qualified, but run anyway because their egos talk them into it. I would love to see Obama as president. He is an intelligent, respectful, and observant human being. If the process and the press don't rip him to shreds, he could be an outstanding president and leader. His youth shouldn't be his undoing. There are plenty of old guys in the political ring who aren't any smarter or better now than they were 25 years ago. The only thing that could hold Obama back is his lack of political base and cronies. Or, that could be the best reason to vote for him!

I had always thought that Obama is about as effectual, but not quite as thoughtful and inspiring as a bowl of tepid Cream of Wheat. But gosh and golly, if GEORGE CLOONEY endorses him for prez I'll vote for him twice!

I'm not too sure about Obama for Pres - maybe he should concentrate on his current job representing the citizens of Illinois first. He hasn't done one thing for Illinois at all since he sold the Bold Changes campaign to the poor minorities in Chicago to vote him in - and then headed east to begin his journey to the White House without so much as a "thank you".

Our gov keeps pushing his name all over here hoping that he could ride Obama's coat tails in '08 or '12.

Obama's nothing but a poster boy.

George Clooney says we need to save Darfur. Drop everything and get to work on that. Who knew things were bad enough over there for Mr. Clooney to intervene?

Let's remember that we're not even sure if Obama's even good at campaigning. Polls at the time showed that if it had not been for the Tribune (and others repeated their reporting) plastering Blair Hull and Jack Ryan's divorce proceedings over the front page he probably would't've even won the democrat primary for U.S. Senator, let alone the general election.

He may someday make a great presidential candidate, but let's be realistic. So far, all he's done is win an election that was virtually handed to him by the ramblings of Alan Keyes. He hasn't authored much legislation of note in the few years since his election, but it really hasn't been that long so that's not a criticism. I just want to see some substance to his tenure in office, perhaps some important Obama-authored legislation.

Right now the most promising candidate for national office from Illinois isn't Barack Obama, Rod Blagojevich, Dick Durbin or Judy Baar Topinka. It's Patrick Fitzgerald. When people ask, "well, what's he done that's so special?" Fitzgerald can without qualification say he's netted more than 100 convictions in the Operation Safe Road probe and hung the pelts of George Ryan and Scooter Libby, too. His position as special prosecutor of the CIA leak makes him a national figure of prominence. He's weeded more corruption out of Illinois than any of his predecessors over the last 20 years.

Dick Durbin better just hope Fitzgerald chooses not to run against him for U.S. Senate.

"But facts and logic escape the We Hate Bush Liberal faction."

The fact is the Illinois repugnantkins don't have anyone as charasmatic and smart as Obama and it drives you crazy. Hastert is going be caught up in the Abramoff dragnet. Ryan is going to jail. You have nothing good to talk about in your party so you try and trash Senator Obama. Nice try, but it's inadequate. BTW Bush now at 9 STRAIGHT months of sub-40 approval ratings. The we hate Bush faction is now the majority.

http://backyardconservative.blogspot.com/2006/04/obamas-political-calculation.html

To Jim about Bill's email. Your right, Clooney's opinion should be worth as much as Bill's or mine, and it will be as soon as we can appear on the podium with him and get national coverage. He's a celebrity, his job is to entertain those of us that actually do something for a living. I wouldn't go see another Clooney film if you held a gun to my head. He actually believes his opinions should count for more than the millions of people who voted for the Bush. But reality has never been a strong point for most actors.

OBAMA, OBAMA 4 PRESIDENT 2008 HERE IS A CHANT AND CHEER!

2!, 4!, 6!, 8! WHO DO WE APPRECIATE!
OBAMA!,OBAMA! IN 2008!!!!

I suspect humanitarian aid would be quickly forthcoming to Darfur, if it sat on vast oil reserves. Clooney is an intelligent man who has chosen to use his celebrity to speak out on issues that he cares about, which is his right as long as he is also willing to accept the flack and/or business consequences that result from the promotion of his beliefs. And he, at least, seems to accept those consequences, unlike some other celebrities (Dixie Chicks for example).

Jorge from Bloomington-

I read your posts about what Obama has done for Illinois, and you immediately into a tirade about President Bush. As a citizen of Illinois, I have yet to see what Obama has done for Illinois, so please fill me in on his accomplishments since he was elected to the senate. I'd like to know without the attacks on Bush. If that route is taken, it shows that not much is known about his accomplishments and we have to resort to knocking someone else down without addressing the original question. Thanks for your help.

Seventy percent of the Illinois electorate voted for Barack Obama in 2004. Who voted for him? I do not believe that all of the Republicans stayed home and did not vote on that day. Senator Obama obviously has broad support and appeal.

RE: "What has Obama done for me? What has he actually accomplished?"

He was the chief sponsor of a new law to require police to record all interrogations and confessions in homicide cases, to address the history of wrongful convictions in Illinois. He led efforts to pass a substantial ethics reform package, which was signed into law 2003. He played a key role in welfare reform legislation and the state's Earned Income Tax Credit.

In 97 Obama inserted a provision into Illinois's welfare statute, instructing the Dept of Human Services to seek researchers to conduct a study of the effects of welfare reform. He was derided for stipulating that absolutely no taxpayer money would be paid to the researchers. The Chicago Urban League successfully lobbied several universities to pursue the study at their own expense.

In 14 months in the Senate, he's authored the HOPE Act, to expand Pell grants, and as member of Foreign Relations committee has traveled to Iraq and the Palestinian Territories, where he took a hard line with Hamas.

Lastly, his DNC speech abandoned the bile-spewing tactics of politicians of both sides, and spoke to a united America, a gesture that clearly hasn't resonated among many of the contributors to this thread.

This was a distinct break from the effete, angry Democratic party, but not a swing to the failed, angry Republican side. His idealistic conception of American hope for a better day is the ideal and hope that underpins American society, and he appears to be the only person in Congress who has yet to lose sight of that.

Clooney may be a decent actor, but a political expert he is not. Same for that blowhard Obama. I think both of them should go back to Sudan if they love it there so much and set up their own socialist government there instead of doing it here.

George Clooney shouldn't call himself a "dim bulb"...dim-wit is much more accurate!

Obama is wonderful senator and would make a great candidate for president but we also need some our best and brightest to reamain in the senate and move into leadership positions where they can influence policy both domestically and globally.

If anyone really paid attention to Obama's literature and beliefs, i'm sure they would see the same strain of socialism that I do. However, we lived in a democracy, not the USSR.

I'm not saying that Obama is a bad person or politician. I tend to lean to the right and have been throughly impressed by his demeanor and intelligence.

I agree that he might have the qualifications for a good president, but 2008 is too early for him. And running as VP would probably kill his career - look at Al Gore for instance - a very intelligent, well meaning man who just happened to play second fiddle a bit too long.

It makes me sad to read comments about how America should stop taking care of other countries and that it is a waste of your tax dollars. As the world's most powerful and wealthiest nation, it is our responsibility to aid others in need (although I know that it is mostly politically and financially driven). I agree that we definitely have problems within our own country, but we will always have problems.

Could you honestly tell a starving child in Africa that you think it is a waste of your tax dollars to give them food and education?

People should educate themselves more on world issues instead of complaining about wasted tax dollars.

I think Senator Obama may make a great President at some time but I think George Clooney's support may hurt him rather than help.

We have no business in IRAQ
and we sure as hell have no
business in AFRICA.

I love Clooney, but c'mon taking political advice from him is like taking driving advice from Ted Kennedy. While we're on the subject of Kennedy, don't compare Obama to JFK, Obama got elected by voters who are actually alive. He has no leg to stand on when running for President. He has not done anything as Senator yet. I'm sure he is a brilliant man, but so was Jimmy Carter and how did that turn out? You might as well put Hillary on the ticket too, and we can all live in a far left wing, liberal hell. Vote Condi Rice '08!

You know what Obama's got going for him?

He's black but talks like a white man. That's it.

Obama in 2008! So what if he doesn't have a lot of political experience. Look at our president! He went to Yale as his dad's legacy, then served on various boards of directors, then decided to run for governor of Texas. He didn't know squat about politics. I can't even imagine him in a room talking policy, because he really doesn't understand anything, except to be Karl Rove's and Dick Cheney's puppet. He can't speak a coherent sentence!

As a political science major, I understand the political process and dirty tricks much better than our current president - and my IQ is higher!!

I find it interesting how many people argue that "celebrities" like George Clooney, Al Franken, or the Dixie Chicks shoudl keep their mouths shut, but then turn around and have no problem listening to Rush Limbaugh, Toby Keith, or voting for Arnold Schwarzenegger.

Clooney's opinion counts for the same amount as yours, mine, Rush's or any other private citizen's, but like Rush, he has a bigger megaphone than most people.

Someone who loves their country, on either side of the aisle, who can get the coverage should use that coverage to help promote their opinion for a better country.

Excuse me, Tribune, I thought the subject was Darfur, not Sen. Obama nor George Clooney. How silly of me--Americans can't be bothered to pay attention to suffering--especially the suffering of people in other countries--when there's celebrity-worshipping to be done.

And, why was the message from "Tim" posted three times? It wasn't THAT insightful.

Obama and Durbin in 2008!
Then we can get both of them out of Illinois and elect senators who will work for us and not for the DNC, Hollywood or their own incredibly inflated egos.
Obama and Durbin in 2008!

He's a chain-smoking fool with an unimpressive track record of bandwagoning on the non-controversial issues. Why does that make him the next JFK?

For the life of me, I have a difficult time figuring out how fleeting celebrity status confers any level of special perception that is not shared by the more humble folk that clear our garbage, direct traffic, and keep our telephone systems running. Maybe it is an additive in the special "star" bottled water they drink which confers this perception that "they" know better than the rest of us folks as to who should be elected to what office.
However, given the results of the 2004 election, one should be careful to put an awful lot of credence in these preferences and prognostications of the "stars" - remember the results on the national level then? Hmm. Not exactly consistent with the "star vote".
Fame is a fleeting responsibility. And with a public that is insufficiently sophisticated to understand that a "star" opinion is generally equivalent to that of the local motorcycle cop, its owners might be advised to choose the recipients of their "blessings" with better care - care that can be measured in terms of credibility. Of course, that view assumes anyone really gives a rat's toches what any of the people from the coasts say. The last two national elections seem to show that they're playing to a less than half-full audience, anyway.

Obama for POTUS? Now I'm laughing. I've been an Illinois House Staffer and served on the Executive Staff of one of Illinois' governors and I've lobbied the Illinois legislature while Obama served. I know Obama and I've seem him in action. POTUS? Nope. A good rule of thumb is that there are no virtuous souls in the Illinois General Assembly. A couple downstate Republicans are the closest thing you'll find to honest legislators. An old staff joke is that Illinois legislators can't leave the state because any other state would bust them at the border just to save time. Obama is a typical Dem from Chicago with all that that implies. As for Clooney and all the other "names" out there, stick to acting or singing or whatever got you your money and keep your politics to yourself.

I agree with George. Not because he is incredibly charming, good-looking and witty, but because OBAMA IS the BEST and ONLY CHANCE the DEMOCRATS have TO WIN the next election. If Obama doesn't run, the Democrats will lose. The American voters will not vote Hillary into office...the masses just aren't ready for a woman, which is unfortunate.

I recommend that anyone who questions Obama's integrity or intentions should read his book first. Whether you agree with his politics or not, you can't help but come away impressed with his principles. He is one of the LAST people in Washington who should be accused of getting active in politics because he needs to feel important or likes to hear himself talk. Until you know a little bit about the man, you should keep your obviously ill-informed opinions about him to yourself.

I never realized that there were that many fools reading this newspaper. You probably think that the gas prices are so high because of all of the taxes put on them by the state, yet the gasoline companies reap unheard of profits - at your expense. What's happening in Darfour is the issue, not Clooney or Obama. I suppose Iraq is OK but Darfour - no way!
Get real people!!

I think we need to worry about our homeless and hungry here in the US and take care of the less fortunate here. The numbers of homeless, hungry, abused, etc. here on our own soil are staggering. What have Clooney and Obama done about that issue? I'm so sick of these movie star type people going and pretending to save the world so to speak. How about lets save our own country.

It was my pleasure to have a wide-ranging conversation with Mr. Clooney, and I found him to be an extremely intelligent and perceptive person who is genuinely interested in making the world a better place. He has a right to his opinion about Obama, one with which I agree; however, even if I didn't, I would support Mr. Clooney in his desire to elect a man as president who can command the respect of the American public. I took note of Obama years ago and thought then that he was a great prospect for high office. Since then my regard for him has grown, and I hope that he will indeed seek the presidency at the appropriate time. 2012 should give him enough time to create that groundswell one writer mentioned.

While George may be a dim bulb next to some, I think he probably shines the hell out of that there feller in the Whaite House. Both of 'em.

Everytime George opens his mouth he is petitioning to change his last name to Clueless. Obama is close to being the last person on earth one should have as President. That last spot would be a heavily contested race for George and the other Hollyweird moonbats.

I have just read a series of comments from 4/27, many of which have disparaging and sometimes ugly references to our President. I notice most would like to see a slick talker in the White House rather than a man of principle. What is also interesting is the number of Liberal sounding people who must be subscribing to what a Native Chicagoan has always thought was a somewhat Conservative directed newspaper. How things change. W. Gries, Cullowhee, NC

"I'm tired of seeing my tax dollars being wasted on helping people in foreign countries. If Obama runs in 08, I'll move to Canada!
Posted by: Frank | Apr 27, 2006 2:46:25 PM"

Hi Frank, bad news here: Canada spends more per capita on foreign aid than the US does. Your compassion is underwhelming by the way...

I, too, agree that Obama grew up to be a good, honorable man. But a case can be made that there are two kinds of politicians -- those whe are corrupt and those who will be corrupt. I wonder how long it will take for him. We have already seen him prostitute himself for the party -- I have seldom if ever heard him say anything good about a Republican or bad about a Democrat. We have already seen this bite him with his unbridled endorsement of the bozo who held a key position with the family owned bank that funds the Mafia.

I think all celebrities should come out and speak their mind. It's more entertaining then their acting...

How can anyone take all these high school dropouts seriously when it comes to any view that they have.

Stay in hollywood and shut up.

Isn't Obama the one who said he does not let his moral convictions get in the way of his politics (or something like that)?

...man of principle. What is also interesting is the number of Liberal sounding people who must be subscribing to what a Native Chicagoan has always thought was a somewhat Conservative directed newspaper. How things change. W. Gries, Cullowhee,NC
Posted by: William Gries | Apr 28, 2006 12:21:48 PM

Bush a "man of principle"...thanks, I needed a laugh!

William also seems to be unaware that you can go to the website and post liberal ravings w/o sending money to Trib/Bush Inc.

"Everytime George opens his mouth he is petitioning to change his last name to Clueless."

Mike, you were talking about George Bush, right?

Sorry, William Gries, but sometimes we liberals have to call a spade a spade. I'd rather have someone in office who can slick talk for himself rather than someone who's in the back pocket of a slick talker who destroys everyone in his path while pretending to run a positive campaign/administration.

Where does Oprah Winfrey weigh in on the issue of Obama running for President?

Just what makes obama legit as a senator?? who did he defeat in Illinois?? a radical who didn't even reside in the state, and at a time when the republican party in the state was in shambles, broke, and led by a dumb woman, who forced the best candidate to pull out!!! Since then he has done nothing of sustance, except talk the same as other liberals, and change like the proverbial wind.

How about a ticket with Obama and the recently persecuted Barry Bonds?
How about Ray Nagin?
Kwame Kilpatrick?