Barack Obama has a problem: According to a new Los Angeles Times/Bloomberg poll, one in six voters thinks he’s just too black — for America, that is. It’s the political equivalent of “I’m not racist, but my friend is” and, sadly, it may have something to do with the competitive nature of the campaign.


Los Angeles Times:

The poll … illustrates some racial undercurrents that confront Obama as he strives to become the first African American president. Nine percent of voters say they would feel uncomfortable voting for a black candidate. Most voters say they know people who feel that way. About one in six say the country is not ready to elect a black president.

… For now, voters favor Obama on the economy, the issue they rank as most important. Also, independents, a crucial swing bloc, are leaning toward Obama. And Obama’s supporters remain more enthusiastic than McCain’s, a sign that the Democratic candidate may be able to turn out more voters.

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