On TNR today, Michael Crowley
wrote that
"I do worry that this lays bare a very grim truth: That even middle-class black American culture is more angry and alienated than most whites understand, and that our country is simply not yet at the point where even an ostensibly post-racial black candidate can escape that dynamic entirely.
And as a colleague put it to me today, in terms I hope are too pessimistic: "It makes me think it's going to be at least another generation before we see a black man elected president." If Obama can prove him wrong then he really may be a world-historical figure.
Also, he writes that "a pro-Hillary friend" wrote him "saying this is why calls to force Clinton out of the race are premature. In politics, lighting can always strike."
This took me aback. Obviously, the Wright case is bad news for Obama - both in terms of the ongoing primary race and in terms of the general elections if he does win. But is it the kind of thing that could or will sink his candidacy altogether? Does it fall in the category of spontaneous self-combustion, the category of "lightning striking" that voters have kept Hillary in the race for as "reserve"? Or is that the hyperbole of the moment, the hysteria of pundits forever caught in the moment?
I really dont know, myself. I dont think I can plumb the depths of what racial issues are affected or might be triggered by this in America; dont know whether to be optimistic or pessimistic. So I thought I'd ask all of you Americans.
Sorry to be rude, but I am NOT asking for your opinion
about Wright or the things he said. I am asking how big a deal this will be, in your opinion, for Obama's chances now and in the generals.
Thank you very much!