Obama Church Controversy - March 2007 - (The back off request)

[Alamom]

I remember this and there's more to it than just distancing. I'll look further, but I believe Rev. Wright stood with Sen Obama at many events prior to this official announcement and then was ask to back off.......if I'm wrong, let me know.


http://www.pbs.org/wnet/religionandethics/week1028/newsfeature.html

Obama Church Controversy
March 9, 2007
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LAWTON: With 9,000 members, Trinity is the largest and one of the most prominent congregations in the United Church of Christ. In the past few weeks, conservative bloggers and pundits have begun raising concerns about Wright's Africentric theology and his liberal -- some say radical -- politics. Wright has been an outspoken opponent of the war in Iraq and a strong supporter of the Palestinians.

Sen. OBAMA (speaking at rally): I stand before you today to announce my candidacy for president of the United States of America.

LAWTON: Some campaign advisors are reportedly urging Obama to distance himself from Wright. At the last minute, Obama asked Wright not to offer a public prayer at the rally when he announced his run for the presidency. Wright told us he has long understood that Obama may be forced to distance himself.

Rev. WRIGHT: He can't afford the Jewish support to wane or start questioning his allegiance to the state of Israel because I'm saying I think the position we've taken in terms of Palestinians is wrong.

LAWTON: Obama credits Trinity -- and Wright -- with bringing him to a personal faith. He says more than 20 years ago he walked forward in response to an altar call given by Wright.


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