'There is nothing exciting about me or any other black Republican'
By Alicia W. Stewart, CNN
(CNN) - Don Harwell has not spoken to his twin brother in 10 years.
"As I remember it, the discussion was (that) the Book of Mormon was a lie, " Harwell says.
His brother, a born-again Baptist, was speaking about his faith. Harwell finally got tired of trying to defend his own faith to his brother, and they have not spoken since that call. "It hurts, you know," Harwell shares.
But, he adds: "I have real short patience with people who don't have the knowledge of a book they have never read."
He has become accustomed to being misunderstood at times.
He is black. He is conservative. He is Mormon.
And he plans to vote for presumptive GOP nominee Mitt Romney.
Romney said he "expected boos"
In an election year where one poll currently puts African-American support for Romney at just 5%, and after a NAACP speech that brought boos to the Republican, conservative blacks have again become a focus.
Is Obama taking the Black vote for granted?
In America spoke to Don Harwell, Jennifer Carroll and James White to learn more.
Don Harwell
"I'm a conservative, but not necessarily a Republican"
Don Harwell is president of the Genesis Group, a support group for African-Americans in The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints.
"I know the church is true and I am a firm believer," he said. "There are always problems, you can find the problems, or you can focus on the positive side."
He had a circuitous journey to becoming baptized as Mormon, and conservative.
He grew up in Los Angeles where his dad was a "good businessman," and mother helped manage their publishing company. She was a practicing Catholic who took Harwell and his two brothers to mass.
But when Don was old enough to "get away from it," he went on his own spiritual quest.
Work took him to Colorado, and later Utah. By then he was "diligently searching for a place to get closer" to the Holy Spirit.
Harwell recalls that when he asked God if the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints was the true church, he had a physical burning in his chest. He saw that as his answer. "If the Heavenly Father gives me the feeling that this is the right thing to do, I'm doing it."
He recognizes why some have suspicions of the Mormon faith, and are wary of the church's history. He remember the rumors he heard about the church being "racist" before he joined. That is part of why he has worked so hard with the Genesis Group, the LDS church's support group for African-Americans, to ensure a more supportive culture.
"It is nice to see other people like you who enjoy the same things like you and share the same spirit of our Heavenly Father," Harwell said. "The church itself is perfect, but people aren't."
It is also how became acquainted with Romney.
He plans to vote for the presumptive Republican nominee, and he worked on the former Massachusetts governor's 2008 presidential campaign.
"I'm a conservative, but not necessarily a Republican."
Today, he is a power company executive who lives in Cottonwood Heights, Utah, with his wife.
His wife plans to vote for President Barack Obama.
Florida Lt. Gov. Jennifer Carroll
"People are not concerned with the politics or party, but what is going to bring a prosperous future ..."
"Keep in mind, I am a lifetime member of the NAACP and support their cause in equal opportunity," Florida Lt. Gov. Jennifer Carroll shares in a quick phone call on her way to the airport.
She is the first African-American statewide elected officer in Florida, under Gov. Rick Scott.
Romney draws boos from NAACP, support from conservatives
When Romney addressed the NAACP, she was there. "I applaud his efforts for not shying away from an audience that may not vote for him," she said. "When people get to know Gov. Romney, they will appreciate his candor."
Plus, she adds, people might be surprised how many in the NAACP audience his message resonated with. She noted that several in the audience whispered to her that the presumptive Republican nominee was "right" about some of the points
"I think that people are not concerned with the politics or party, but what is going to bring a prosperous future for their family."
"I've been black all my life"
Texas state Rep. James White is definitely a man concerned with politics and party, but only after his faith to God and country.
Texas State Representative James White
"I'm a Christian first, a Texan second, and a conservative third."
A former educator turned state representative, the 47-year-old widower is a veteran, a rancher and consultant with a doctorate in political science. He bristles a bit at the curiosity of the "exotic" black Republican. "How many black ranchers do you know?" he countered.
He insists that his political maturation is no different from anyone else: a function of upbringing, friends, and religious beliefs.
"There's no doubt I'm black. I've been black all my life," he said. "There is nothing exciting about me or any other black Republican."
But White is the first African-American and Republican to represent his east Texas district: a district that includes Jasper, the city that became infamous for the 1998 dragging death of a black man by three white men.
"Anytime there is a callous taking of a life, I was offended by it," he said.“I’m proud to represent southeast Texas, particularly proud of representing the citizens of Jasper.”
"We all have these challenges in our history that deal with race and ethnicity in many of our locales. We need to work it out locally."
Racial tension again tests Texas town
He was raised in Texas by a Methodist preacher father who worked at an oil refinery, a member of a union. White attended Prairie View A&M University, the historically black college, to study political and military science and pursue his dream of being an officer in the Army. “It was one of the best experiences I had in my entire life.”
He later focused his dissertation studying how Republicans supported black candidates like Michael Steele and Lynn Swann. It proved a training ground for his own political ambitions: he was recently re-elected for a second term.
Still, he prefers not to be boxed in by labels, and seen on his own merits.
That is why he refused to join the Romney campaign at Wednesday's NAACP address.
"I have not officially come out and (endorsed) Romney, but do plan on supporting the Republican nominee," he said.
He explained his reasons for not joining the candidate in this letter, and insists that he is "making sure the party hierarchy respects my constituency."
"I'm going to follow the party," he said.
He just wants to be sure that he, and his district, are not taken for granted.
About In America
What defines you? Maybe it’s the shade of your skin, the place you grew up, the accent in your words, the make up of your family, the gender you were born with, the intimate relationships you chose to have or your generation? As the American identity changes we will be there to report it. In America is a venue for creative and timely sharing of news that explores who we are. Reach us at inamerica@cnn.com.
Black in America
iReport
the biggest problem that we have in this countrys democracy – by far – are these fools that think voting "conservative" is somehow more "christian" then voting otherwise. None of them have a clue that they are being pandered to and lied to to get their "values" based vote. Rick Santorum would renounce christ in a heartbeat in return for the presidency – and mitt romney would renounce whatever space aliens the mormons believe in as well. FOOLS!
And the trouble we have in this country are those who think voting for a liberal makes them more 'intelligent', 'enlightened', 'forward thinking' and 'progressive'. None of them have a clue that they are being pandered to and lied to to get their "values" based vote.
I think the people addressed in this article have a political view and a religious view. Sometimes it may match, other times in might not. Also, it is strange that in a Free country, if you are Black you must be a democrat. You must be for Pres. Obama. You must be a liberal – I guess I am free to be who I am as long it agrees with the NAACP.
BR=Black Republican
Soledad O'Brien can barely keep her demons from raging out when she interviews a conservative. She's really an un-professional.
I noticed that too. I thought it was just me. Why was she so militant? Does she hate the black woman, or is she just generally antagonistic? Hmmm...
all religous books are out right lies, but the book of moron, I mean mormon and the dianetics, the scientology books, are the 2 dumbest faiths in the world.
That's because before time as we know it today, The Republicans used to be Democrate and the Democrates used to be Republican. Somehow that all changed and it reversed. So when you see blacks that voted republican before the 1950s or so that is the reason. Not very good on my History but I did pay some attention. Not to mention you can Google your history if you really want to learn or, pick up a book and read.
You think this article is a hoot, then you'll really enjoy CNN's Black in America series...
I think even blacks realize they can't be monolithic. Obama is half black and really has no experience as a black person.
I strongly disagree with your comment pertaining to Obama's black experience. Do you not see the racism this man has to endure simply because of his race? As a multiracial African-American, I do not think he is nor ever will be seen as a white male. His black experience is very real perhaps even more so than his slightly "more" black counterparts. It baffles me how people use his" non-whiteness:"(ie. birth certificate, middle name, fathers ethnicity, ect...) against him but yet question his "blackness".
Nogimus Prime - I agree with all that you wrote. The only peaceful solution now is segregation. And the sooner the better.
Speaking from these brief bios, I see people of privelege (No doubt earned. I salute them). They tend to separate themselves from the Reagan-made "welfare queen" stereotype. And how do they do that? They become Republican. They espouse the American dream of hard work and reward. It presupposes that being on the Right is a manifestation of that and that because a good number of poor and minority citizens recognize and vote Democrat. Republicans are far less sympathetic to plight and assume that the underprileged are so because they don't play by the rules. In order to have the filthy rich, there exists the filthy poor. NOTE FOR THE STUPID. Poor does not imply non-working and shiftless. It means people don't get paid enough so companies can be so rich. In these little case studies above (especially for the PhD), they and their handlers can ki....Sorry. Can't say it.
YEA! We ALL know how well off economically the South is doing – and is doing so because it has had the benefit of ABSOLUTE Republican control for DECADES AND DECADES.
Wouldn't you like the rest of the country to be doing as well off as Mississippi? (The POOREST STATE IN THE UNION).
Come on, Republicans, swarm to this post and let us all know how you want to live in the squalor and abject poverty of Mississippi, Arkansas & Alabama! YOU BUILT THAT ECONOMY OF FAILURE – NOW YOU WANT THE REST OF THE COUNTRY TO DO AS POORLY!
YEA! Let's all be like MISSISSIPPI! YEA!
I was watching on the news a conservative talking about succession from the union. I think they thought liberals would be all annoyed or broken up by that threat.. I say they can have the south as long as they promise to take Wisconsin and Nascar with 'em. 😛
OPEN QUESTION FOR EVERYONE HERE: If today's America were to completely and utterly segregate by race, which group would be worse off than it is now in the coming years? Which group would thrive? Clearly articulate evidence for your response. Thank you.
OMG - you brought up the "S" word.
Good - than move to Detroit or Flint (or even Haiti). Do it now. But you won't, will you? You can proclaim your love for all here, but intuitively you will not risk your melatonin-deficient skin in "certain" areas. Even your supposed higher intelligence and moral superiority won't save you in the hood. And you KNOW it.
There have been backstabbing, duplicitous black people screwing over the others foreeeever.
Why not just segregate the races and call it a day? Deep in your hearts, you know this is the only solution.
Two points:
1. I don't see how any African American can belong to the Republican Party. They are just as racist as ever. They only represent the White male. They are anti every thing but white male. They are anti black anti-gay, anti-women anti every minority. Its okay to be Black and conserveative but I just don't see the Republican party welcoming to blacks.
2. These articles just reenforce how racially sensitive we are in this country. Whenever there is an article about race these blogs are miles long.
The GOP/Tea Party love Women, Blacks, Gays and midde to poor whites during presidential election years. Once they get their vote they ignore them for the next 4 yrs. Today's GOPTea Party is NOT your fathers Republicans. This group which started in the 90's with newt Gingrich and his ILK are social and political extremists hell bent on giving not only our land, money and profits to the mega rich but now also our government.
Real History: get a clue-ALL politicians, including the president, ignore the American people, except in an election year! Only your vote counts, not your opinion. Oh wait, one more thing counts-your $$!
Jon - you are correct. So after years of failed integration, segregation is the only solution. Let's begin ASAP.
Since when is wanting jobs and a better economy not something every race wants?
Its statements like these that cause so much division between Blacks and Republicans and Democrats and republicans. Why cant you try to say something that contributes to the conversation instead of the opposite?
I'd like to point out that the civil rights act of 1964, which ended segregation and other forms of discrimination, was a Democratic effort that was opposed by Republicans. Yes, black Republicans are traitors.
You are entirely wrong here...In fact, Dems voted AGAINST the bill at a significantly higher rate than Repubs. In fact, only one (R) Senator voted against it...Strom Thurmond, and he was a (D) less than a year prior. You Dems can have him back!
Thanx, but no thanx, Christian
Apologies...was speaking of the Voting rights act of '65...but see below for the right bill...
Both of you are wrong. There was no statistical difference in the voting rates of Democrats and Republicans regarding that bill. Democrats certainly proposed the bill and the GOP leadership opposed it but a significant number of rank Dems opposed it while a significant number of rank GOP members supported it.
Pretty sure you're trolling...but just to clear things up a bit. The Civil Rights Act of 1964 was opposed by Southerners, Democrat and Republican alike. In the Senate, 31% Democrats and 18% Republicans voted against it. ...similar proportions voted against it in the House 37% of Dems and 20% of Republicans. Most of the strong opposition came from Southern Democrats.
Stop being so disingenuous. You know damn well that Republicans used to not be as evil as they are right now, and Democrats used to be the evil party.
Times change and so does ideology. The only thing that doesn't seem to change is IGNORANCE, and right now, the Republican party has it in spades.
Any Mormon guys here?????????????
Is that common in your church ??????????????
You didn't even ask a proper question with a full sentence. Is WHAT common in our church?
All the cries for equality and all the accusations of racism and here's a whole article specifically setting you apart from everyone else because of your color.
How do you explain that?
Sounds like color is a wild card.
Played whenever it serves best.
,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,It's not a good religion,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,
This story tells me Mormon may be a anti-Christ religion,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,
no love ,,,,,,,,,,,all hate,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,
The Bible specifically warns us against these false religions and false prophets.
The Mormons have an "excuse" for this.
But of course they would.
I bet MSNBC doesn't call any of these folks racist. Or do they?
A couple of things I get out of this article. 1. A man experiences heartburn and thinks it is a spiritual message. 2. The LDS is spending huge amounts of money to get articles like this and commercials on TV to take away the " cult" stigmatism. 3. Must be a slow news day for CNN.
Enlightened wrote: "The Democrat indoctrinated Muslim currently in The White House..."
Muslim? One of the reasons I didn't (and won't) vote for him is he's far too Christian in outlook...
Oh, they know he's not a Muslim. They just hate him so much they cannot let a chance to insult him go by.
I find it simply hilarious that the far right is still trying to paint Obama as a Islamic extremist... Lets ignore the fact that almost have his staff is Jewish, not to mention his old friend Emanuel was Israeli counterterrorist. I forgot how close Islamic extremists are to Israeli's and Jews.
DAM ???????
That really surprised me ,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,twin brother fought for a book ??????????
Check your heart ,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,you are not a good brother,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,you are not really learning the bible,,,,,,,,,,
Even he is your enemy ,,,,,,,,,,,you should love him,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,
He is your twin brother,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,
What the hk is Mormon religion ????????? I thought it was good,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,
but it seems NOT
===========Above all else, guard your heart, for it is the wellspring of life.==============
=========But I tell you: Love your enemies and pray for those who persecute you,===========
,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,just don't understand,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,
Brothers hate or even kill brothers,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,is that a good religion ???????????????
The Jews are descendants of Abraham’s son Isaac. The Arabs are descendants of Abraham’s son Ishmael.
With Ishmael being the son of a slave woman (Genesis 16:1-16) and Isaac being the promised son who would inherit the blessings of Abraham (Genesis 21:1-3), obviously there would be some animosity between the two sons. As a result of Ishmael’s mocking Isaac (Genesis 21:9), Sarah talked Abraham into sending Hagar and Ishmael away (Genesis 21:11-21). Likely, this caused even more contempt in Ishmael’s heart towards Isaac. An angel prophesied to Hagar that Ishmael would “live in hostility toward all his brothers” (Genesis 16:11-12).
I could never be a Mormon. I need my coffee every morning, my soda every afternoon, and my beer every evening.
Is a black Republican equate a Jewish NAZI?
he has no LOVE in his heart ,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,,
Martin Luther King was a republican... look it up
During the civil rights era, especially in the south most Blacks were Republicans because they were more progressive than Democrats at the time. The biggest political racists in the south during time were dems like the infamous Bull Connor!
Being a black Republican is a little like being a black Klansman.
It takes a special kind of crazy to be a member of a party that hates who you are.
That's understandable when you close your eyes to the constant hate coming from the right.
"Because" you're part of it.
To be honest I am not convinced either party cares about anybody other than themselves. I am a independent liberal and while I often like what the dems are saying in their campaigns I know they usually have no intention of following through with any of it. All politicians are selfish greedy liars. They just cater to voters during elections and tell you what they think you want to hear. Romney... Obama.... Neither of them are gonna do anything anyway. Call me cynical but time will tell.
The welfare state and LBJ's war on poverty has mentally enslaved more African Americans than the number of slaves that were ever held in bondage by the United States and later the Confederacy !
Who says we are free ?
Consider the words of MLK: "It is a crime for people to live in this rich nation and receive starvation wages" and that "Any nation that spends more money on military defense than on programs of social uplift is approaching spiritual death."
The war on poverty was necessary, as are many social programs, not because African-Americans can't work hard, but because the ACCESS was never there for them in the same way that it was/is for whites. African-Americans are just as capable of climbing the social ladder as anyone, but in order for that to happen, there has to be a ladder and not just two poles standing side by side.
Well said. An intelligent comment.
Soledad is so bias and predictable; it is embarrassing to watch her
For The RECORD: Sister Soledad is the MOST sole Intelligent on CNN and next to Bernard Shaw. She's a fearless SOUL unlike those cowards on CNN.
For The RECORD: your inherent FEARS are FEARLESS Black folks to challenge your stupidity. Like how she grilled your crazy, Repukecan candidate; Mitt Romney months ago. She set his $M suit on fire.
Ask your CORRUPT, Repukecan candidate; Mitt Romney if he needs a 2nd. round bout to clarify his evil statements as a Bishop of CULT Mormon Church? I bet that coward, Mitt Romney won’t dare!
BRAVO to Ms. Soledad on behalf of the Soledad Brothers and the poor!
"natasha" you wanna head back to your communist country you came from where folks are oppressed?
Wowsers, Che, you talk like you're marching with Lenin. Soledad O'Brien is an unprofessional, left-wing hack who is an embarrassment to journalism.
These informed, educated African-Americans have escaped from the Democrat plantation and the overseer is looking for them !
The rank-in-file field hands will do everything they can to catch those escapees in order to make Massa happy.
lol nice one!
Lots of Blacks fought for the Confederacy and thousands of women were against their right to vote. Just proves that ignorance is not limited to any pne group. Stupid is as stupid does.
No blacks ever fought for the Confederacy. That's a myth that is perpetuated by the internet and Confederate apologists. No accredited historian has ever found any evidence of any blacks fighting in Confederate ranks.
You failed to mention that the blacks who fought for the confederacy (aka the traitors) were forced to do so. Do your homework and tell the whole truth.
You'd have to have down syndrome to either A.) not know the Book of Mormon is a lie, B.) be a black Mormon, C.) be a black Republican. I feel bad for this guy, and I live in SLC!
Another ad for LDS. They spend a lot of money on getting us to believe that they aren't racist and backward. They were founded on bad, bigoted principles. They used Native Americans to kill whites that came through their lands, then beat the Natives to death for not converting. They took over Utah and had to be put in their place by the military. Enough already.
Seriously WHO CARES!
You going to call Jackie Robinson an "Uncle Tom"? He campaigned for Nixon and other Republicans after his baseball career.
They paid im to.
Big difference.
he was a token to try to pander to the blacks.
A truth is obvious even through the most well conducted lie.
Norm: I would be very interested to see an article from a reputable source proving your point. I would be shocked to find out that Jackie Robinson would take money to sell out his race. He was one of the biggest race-men of his day. Not only was he willing turn the other cheek to all thei nsults he faced in his first three years with the Dodgers, but he was also out there calling for more black managers and front office personnel. He believed in the idea of people helping themselves to improve their condition and not relying on government handouts. Based on the government's record of ill treatment of African Americans, he had little trust in the government doing the right thing.
IIs that all you liberals can do, name calling. Because people strive for success and independence from the government handout, they are uncle Tom's, really?
If you to have to have a "support group" for black mormans, then you have a problem. The book of mormans, is a book of fiction, but believe in what makes you happy.
If your a true beliver, you will know that the "temple of God" is within YOU.
Willard cornered the 'dull' vote a long time ago.
People sell their soul for money..
Yeb;
That's JUDAS as stated in the Scriptures with Slave mentality mindset?
It got old fast, why don't you find a new insult?
I'm black and am a Republican! Whats wrong with that? i never even knew people thought that was strange until reading the commits here. Why should i be considered wierd just because im not going with the mainstream or go along with other black views. I love my Country and my Religion and i'm proud to be able to support my wife and two children through my own labors and hard work and no im not on any government aid and never will be. And yes my boss is white and he is rich that doesn't bother me i'm working my way up the ladder i don't need hand outs. I just need my freedom thats why im republican
Liberals need to stop with the black republicans have stockholm syndrome crap. If 95% of a population blindly vote for one party, perhaps it's the 95% that are the captives beholden to their captors.
"perhaps it's the 95% that are the captives beholden to their captors" Cool story, dude, now try to recall who indoctrinated you to say those words and you might realize who your masters are.
Ok, I've long attempted to convince GOPers to stop with the Southern Strategy BS and reach out in a more constructive fashion to the many millions of black American conservative voters out there. The problem is, your GOP spokespeople won't STFU and still push the racist meme that black Americans can't think for themselves when it comes to voting and that they want "free stuff".
So: Ok. You're black and you're a Republican. Are you into the denial game with Southern Strategy or are you going to go out there and tell people like Rush Limbaugh and FOX that all they're accomplishing is reinforcing the negative GOP image with black voters? Do you realize that the division in this country on the race issue isn't conservatism? Do you realize that conservatism has nothing to do with these racial "theories" and they need to dump this garbage?
Pointing at ccrews for mouthing the same SS racist mime.
There's a reason why they don't – and you're a perfect example...
Republicans would repeal the Civil Rights Act if they could – you know it too. They were violently against it then. They openly hate poor people (they call them moochers) and the list goes on. Not saying Democrats have halos, but if you look at the policies which have made people free and our country clean, it has been the Democrats all along. (And Abe Lincoln was a republican only because that was the name of the liberal party back then – after the war the parties switched names, not ideologies – long story).
I'm white, but when I hear of a black or minority going Republican I only shake my head and wonder.
NATE: I'm with you-I didn't know it was wrong to be Hispanic and a Republican until I got out of college (a Republican that went to college-oh my!) and had people asking me why I wasn't a Democrat. I also used to think this was a free country where even if you disagreed with another's opinion, it was ok. Thank you for your post, nice to know I'm not alone in my 'wrongness'.
I am Black and although normally lean Democrat, I have voted for and supported Republicans in the past if I felt they offered the better alternative. Yet the current GOP not only doesn't have much support form the AA community, they don't even bother to seek it or campaign in such areas. I hear folkssay that the Democrats take the Black vote for granted, well the Republicans figure they are not going to get it so why even bother. Mitt Romney went to the NAACP to talk which was very noble of him...but that will more than likely be about IT. Go to these communities and talk and see what needs to be done..asyou might be surprised at what you find.
Blake and Robert I said its my opinion, and there you go bringing up slavery and history which seems to be from another country. Do not get me wrong I was once proud to be a black Republican, but I was younger and a member of the military, I would still be today but alas they do not represent me , I don't like their rhetoric, their us against them mentality and the out right lies that they perpetuate against President Obama, and lets not forget the friggin tea baggers that have ursurp the GOP
I read the Book of Mormon [25 years ago] and I was not impressed because it made no sense and supports racist ideals. I decided to keep an open mind so I visited Salt Lake City with my brother. [he has cdl license and bus driver experience/ ] If you are not with the Church, in medicine, with the military or relocated via company you can forget finding a easy path to housiing and employment. When you research Utah history you will have a better understanding. Utah! might as well pick a racist town in Texas and move there. Texans are more honest.
What a bigoted thing to say....
The white conservatives aren’t friends of the Blacks either, but they at least don’t try to hide it. They are like wolves; they show their teeth in a snarl that keeps Blacks always aware of where he stands with them. But the white liberals are foxes, who also show their teeth to the Blacks but pretend that they are smiling. The white liberals are more dangerous than the conservatives; they lure the Blacks, and as the Blacks runs from the growling wolf, he flees into the open jaws of the “smiling” fox.
Hint: Humans don't have a magical power that lets them "know" the motivation of others, particularly millions of people they never met, like "liberals".
Another hint: Crazy people often make claims as if they had such a power. It's a form of manipulation- claiming to know what that person is doing and why takes away that person's ability to speak for themself.
My question was that if your case was so convincing, why the need to speak for others? It seems like it's pointless to win arguments when you get to speak for both sides...
Mr. Truthhurts:
Your observation here demonstrates how hidebound so many on your side of the aisle are...indulging in absurd statements and assumptions that have neither substance nor support. Pitiful. And this reply to your "comment," by the way, is coming from a white, deeply conservative, Ozarks Republican. Your attempt to inject "race motives" into the discussion is repugnant. But, sadly, hardly atypical of those with whom you are aligned.
Matthew:
34 Do not suppose that I have come to bring peace to the earth.
I did not come to bring peace, but a sword.
35 For I have come to turn `a man against his father, a daughter
against her mother, a daughter-in-law against her mother-in-law –
36 a man's enemies will be the members of his own household.'
37 Anyone who loves his father or mother more than me
is not worthy of me;
anyone who loves his son or daughter more than me
is not worthy of me;
38 and anyone who does not take his cross and follow me
is not worthy of me.
39 Whoever finds his life will lose it,
and whoever loses his life for my sake will find it."
So out of context.
Why not bother reading the message in its context. If you can copy/ paste, one also hopes and believes you can read well.
Next time keep your extracts in its proper context.
Thanks.
OK got it a Mormon voting for a republican Mormon candidate because he perceives they share the same core values. Can someone explain to me why Romney can accept huge sums of money from a gambling and alcohol pusher? Wouldn't that go against a Mormon's core values? I also think this article illustrates how much Caucasians constantly try to illustrate and analyze (to death) politics of race and race in politics because we have a man of color in the White House. Also to the Caucasian commentators, what makes you experts in what people of color think, act, do, and value and who are you to propose what they should do, think, act and value.
There's nothing wrong with being black, a mormon and a conservative! But there'is something wrong with being black, a mormon and a conservative who supports a republican party that governs for the wealthy only and trample on the poor and the middle class!
Blacks spend all their lives fighting against oppressive white people ... but yet, they have no problems worshiping white people's man-made Gods.
Where's the "love" button for this video?
how can someone with half a brain believe in the book of mormon??? it refers to people with dark skin as dirty and looked down upon by jesus. it caims a man stuck his head in a top hat and received the word from god to write the book of mormon. all true. just look it up
finally, how can a self-respecting african-american be a republican?...especially when he himself says they constantly play into racist ideals just to get votes?
this guy has serious problems.
"he had a physical burning in his chest" normally, I call this acid reflux but I don't hate on other peoples religions, especially if this makes him happy. But still confused how any minority (I'm not) could be Republican. You can be a fiscally conservative Democrat (they are called Blue Dogs). Anymore the GOP has made it nearly impossible to not be socially conservative, which I hate to break it to people, but it is a way of saying: I want to have rights that I don't want others not to have. Congrats that's called tyranny.
The nationwide, exhaustive search is over. I'm not referring to the Vice-President candidate for the Republicans.
Your wish will be fulfilled by your CORRUPT AmerCIA candidate, Mitt Romney.
FYI: Condi Rice Pebbles is on the TOP list for VP recommended by the dysfunctional Bush family.
Does the Black Slogan; "Keep HOPE Alive!" ring a bell?
"I'm a Christian first, a Texan second, and a conservative third." ...
What a strangely typical Southern way of thinking, I'm afraid.
Does not being an American play any role? Are you an American fourth?
So being a christian automatically makes you stupid?
Wow, you atheists sure set a good example for our young with your bigotry.
"being a christian automatically makes you stupid" I didn't actually see anyone saying that except you, sonny boy, and the way you lump all "atheists" together is both bigoted AND stupid. Get a grownup to explain that.
I think that's hate speech PTL. By saying he is a Texan before an American just points out that he is proponent of a small federal government.
You make a point, thank you for sharing your view. My understanding is that Native American tribes immigrated to North America also. My family came to New England in 1650, perhaps yours before mine if you are a Native American.
Sound correct to you?
"I'm a conservative, but not necessarily a Republican"
There's a lot of Black people out there like this. Republicans make is hard, especially in the South where they cater to the racist set, to be on their side. It's just not in a Black person's best interest to vote Republican even if you relate with them, because you know they won't have your community's back when you need it.
As somone who grew up in Colorado, in prominent Black family and raised by Black Conservatives, I do not see the party being the same conservative party with common-sense they used to be. However, we need Black Conservatives so we can know what is going on both sides of the isle, It would not be good for African American's if we did not have some Black Conservatives because then we would not know at all,what is happening on the right. Not all White Conservatives are racists, just with the invasion of the Tea Party into the Republican party and the lack of back bone the real Republican's are showing it's hard to draw the lines, on whose who, and none of them seem to be willing to step up and go against the evil forces within the Party. That's why Obama will get my vote in 2012, he is much more the conservative, even though I don't agree with all of his policies, he benefits my family more than Romney would, and we are the Black Middle-Class who go to work and have degree's, never had food-stamps in my life.
an african american republican must be a traitor. But he can be conservative in terms of values, culture. But to support war, Bain Capital and 1% fatcats that enslave the world, one must be crazy.......
Haha
I thought democrats were open minded... A traitor against who, America or blacks? I find your comment small minded and potentially racist.
Well said Blake.
I dont think CNN is capable of running a story without bringing race into it.
Or Fox, Or CBS, Or America....
Is Fox News capable of not bringing "culture" or "class warfare" into a news story? Heck good old Bill O'Reilly calls himself a "Culture Warrior" yet it's always somebody else bringing on class warefare. Bill is a coward, who likens himself to a cultural warrior because he never had the balls to serve his country and that's as close as he can get to being a warrior.
We have an American Culture and Class Warfare is a cold war that should stay that way. When class warfare goes hot say good-bye to the 1%. They will leave America in droves instead of helping to repair what they "love."
And when the 1% vacate, you can flush our entire economy down the drain with them. Like it or not, that 1% drives a huge chunk of the US economic system. Not to mention the fact that if we drive out a bunch of our fellow Americans over what boils down to envy, you can chuck the ideals that made America successful in the first place out the window right along with them.
Mr Kushner I'am offended that you suggest that I do not think for myself on the contrary, I just don't like people who do not represent me in any way shape or form. I personally think being black and republican is an oxymoron
I think that you asserting that all blacks should vote alike is not too dissimilar to slavery, with the democratic party being the masters. God forbid any black person exercise free will and thought, because obviously when they do they are whipped back into the party line by being called an 'Uncle Tom'. I thought we were past this kind of bs.
Right, being black and a republican is an oxymoron...oh wait a second, wasn't President Lincoln, the man who freed the slaves, a republican? And MLK? And wasn't the civil rights act passed by republicans, even though dems voted against it? Explain to me how being a black republican is an oxymoron....
wow, robert. you know a little bit of history, but not enough! up until the 1950s-1960s, the republican party was much more liberal than the democrats (which is why lincoln and the civil rights act were both republican in nature). since then, democrats have become much more liberal and republicans more conservative. its sad that people like you continue to propogate such ignorance of american history and politics. do a better job next time and make sure your comments actually have some truth behind them.
And Chris, if you knew more history you would know it has the definition of the term "liberal" that has shifted–not so much the ideals of Republicans. Classical liberalism, as found in Enlightenment thinking, and modern conservatism are very close, and it is those ideals of limited government and strong support for individual liberty (see the word, "liberty") that both founded and remain integral to the Republican party. (At least, when they're not overrun by big government spenders and certain others.)
why is cnn seemingly doing the foot work forromney????
Heaven forbid they try to lean towards the center as ALL networks should be doing anyway.
Anne, Come on! Noone can argue against the fact the CNN is left leaning. 70-80% of their articles are pro-O or anti-R and that's a fact! Unfortunately a 'middle' news organization does not exist.......
CNN is 100% behind Rmoney. That's why they keep mentioning him at all. I think FOX has gone back to talking about Rick Perry and Michelle Bachmann by now.
Green is the only color that really matters in politics. If you're flush and brimming with mountains of green, you're all good.
Good one. haha. 🙂
is it true that micheal steele is still in the republican party?unbeliveable after the way they dumped him from that made up job they gave him .
Of Course he is.....he is a smart hard-working american! He just bumbled a bit leading the party, he just wasn't ready yet! It's true that 95% of us will vote for Obama but all we can do is keep educating on the 'modern day slavery' which is our welfare system!
One of the 5%!!!!
Stainless was supposed to be the Magic You Know What who would ring a bell and lead everyone his color into the GOP corral, since they'll just vote dumbly for any black face. Still can't figure out how a foolproof plan like that went wrong?
I admire his modesty, but there is something exciting about him, and all other non-Democrat blacks – namely, that they are able to think for themselves and do not yield to the intense pressure to "fall in line".
Does your admiration extend to Harry Reid, since he is LDS and a Democrat? The independence you applaud here would have you screaming
" traitor!" if there was a comparable situation in reverse.
Agreed.
Did you ever think that its just not in the best interests of Blacks to vote Republican and that is why they don't vote that way? Your assumption is that those that choose to be Republican are right and are somehow smarter than all the other Blacks. That's not true. It may be in their particular best interest, but, by and large, Republicans will be on the wrong side of any race issues and would take away aid from those in our community who need it.
So People of Color who vote democrate that realizes Mitt Romney lies everytime he opens his mouth don't think for themselves. Or people that realizes that trickle down economics destroys the middle class and makes life worse for the poor don't think for themselves (8 years of Bush).
I'm from a small town in Mississippi and the international Paper Company was the main job creator of that town. My dad worked their for over 20 years. When Bush and his deregulation policies and his trickle down economics took affect. The top 1% that Mitt Romney wants to support shut the plant down and moved it to Russia, now everyone in the town is struggling and barely getting by. If you want the US to go down to third world status, where the only jobs available is fast food, then Vote for Mitt Romney.
This is what I witnessed first hand not politics, republicans aren't for the working class, middle class, and I know they can't stand the poor. They have this Hustle mentality that I got minds so forget you, and yor problems.
Do you feel the same way about Non-Republican whites?
He's a credit to his race, eh Marc? So clean and humble; you can just tell he wouldn't talk back to his betters. It's so reassuring to see a respectful black man doing what he's supposed to do.