Question of the Day...

IS JOHN McCAIN A BIGOT? AS I LISTENED TO HIS CONCESSION SPEECH, WHAT I HEARD WAS OFFENSIVE TO ME AS AN AFRICAN-AMERICAN. HOWEVER, HIS SPEECH IS PROOF OF WHAT I’VE BELIEVED ALL ALONG – THAT THE CAUCASIANS WHO REFUSED TO VOTE FOR OBAMA ONLY BECAUSE OF HIS RACE WERE SCARED THAT A BLACK MAN (how they see him) IN THE OVAL OFFICE MEANS GREATER OPPORTUNITIES FOR AFRICAN-AMERICANS. THE FEAR IS THAT PRESIDENT OBAMA WILL RIGHT THE WRONGS DONE TO AFRICAN-AMERICANS. WHY DID OBAMA’S RACE HAVE TO BE MENTIONED AT ALL IN THE OPENING OF HIS SPEECH? IS THIS BECAUSE HE KNOWS HIS FOLLOWERS/BACKERS ARE SUPREMACIST WHO CANNOT FATHOM HAVING AN AFRICAN-AMERICAN IN THE WHITE HOUSE? I MEAN SUPREMACIST IN THE VEIN OF BELIEVING THAT A NON-CAUCASIAN DOES NOT POSSESS THE ABILITY TO LEAD A NATION. THAT NON-CAUCARIANS ARE INFERIOR TO CAUCASIANS.

HIS SPEECH WAS RIFLED WITH ENUENDOS THAT AFRICAN-AMERICANS ARE THE WINNERS AND THE REST OF AMERICA NEED TO GO ALONG WITH HIS ADMINISTRATION QUIETLY AND “THEY� WILL BE ALRIGHT. DOES THAT NOT CONNOTATE DIVISION? THEM AND US? AFRICAN-AMERICANS MUST BE PROUD? WHY NOT ALL OF AMERICA BEING PROUD? UNLESS YOU BELIEVE HE IS INFERIOR AND CANNOT OR WILL NOT BE PRESIDENT OF THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA.

HIS SPEECH IS BEING LABELED AS ‘GRACIOUS’. I SEE VERY LITTLE GRACIOUSNESS IN IT EXCEPT THAT HE DID URGE HIS FELLOW AMERICANS TO SUPPORT SENATOR OBAMA. AT THIS POINT I BELIEVE HE WAS PRESIDENT-ELECT OBAMA.

PLEASE PEOPLE, LET’S PUT ASIDE ALL PREDUJICES AND HATREDS AND GIVE THIS PRESIDENT OUR FULL SUPPORT. JUST AS PRESIDENT BUSH WAS INITIALLY GIVEN SUPPORT ESPECIALLY AFTER 9-11. LET’S STAND BEHIND HIM, GIVE HIM OUR SUPPORT, DIG OUR COUNTRY OUT OF THIS HOLE THAT WE’VE BEEN BURIED IN AND RESTORE OUR TARNISHED REPUTATION IN THE WORLD. WE HAVE A NEW PRESIDENT – WHO HAPPENS TO BE AFRICAN-AMERICAN – NOT AN AFRICAN-AMERICAN PRESIDENT. THERE IS A DIFFERENCE!

VICKY BELL
VINE GROVE, KY

Affirmative action practices should never end. Though the mountain has been climbed, and the people have stood on its peak, the realized dream must be constantly nourished by a society who tries to understand how it feels to walk in another's shoes. If affirmative action practices are annihilated, the compassion that partners up with Affirmative Action practices withers away. Human nature reveals to us that prejudice and bigotry are a part of the human condition, therefore there remains a need for Affirmative Action in the USA.

David, affirmative action practices have ended.
Disparity (discrimination) is alive and kicking with once could have been employers.
(1) When a person of color has the education, experience and ability to contribute to a potential employer(s) and doesn't get hired, repeatly, what does this do to someones self esteem? They eventually give up.
(2) With the unemployment rates at the highest since the great depression, who do you think will be hired first? It will not be that person of color.
Also, with the lose of affirmative action, promotions are rare for people of color. Even with having a proven contribution record, they are/have been skipped over.

Over time they will fade away but only as far as the people of America and the world grow up as time goes by!

Affirmative action must continue because many employers still see color before experience and education. However, I'm not sure how we'll ever know when people stop considering skin color as a "noticeable thing" (nobody admits it, but skin color is an associative trait, which is good and bad).

Affirmative Action should continue, and should always be focused on those who are under-represented. Lately, it has been people of color who have been underrepresented. In the future, white people will be a minority and at that time, affirmative action should be used to ensure that the minority whites are not underrepresented.

Hello everyone;

OF INTERNATIONAL SCENARIO

1. Irael makes a pre-empt attack to Iran for the clear and present threat Iran poses to this nation.
Obama will not do ABSOLUTELY NOTHING for he would say :…
So, that is one for saying that we are friends of the jews,…so, alliance is down to the ground.

2. Russia invades adjacent territories: Estonia, Lavstia, Ukrania,…a continuation of maneuvers like
in Georgia. Obama would leave this to the European Consortium for we are in the west side of the
planet.

3. But Russia too, in combination with Venezuela ( Hugo Chavez) attempt to expand and ‘re-new
old Soviet Empire’ here in our very own backyard,…and should be successful, for Obama will stay
out of it, also.

4. Due to condecending/friendly criteria on border-security, laws and guidelines on ilegal alilens,
the drug-traffic cartel from Mexico and other places from Latin America, increase as result.

5. Because around 25% decrease in national defense, our security, domestic and abroad is to be
with high vulnerability….along with the inability to spot and stop ‘fifth columnist (spies) form
terrorist factions enhance the danger for our beloved country .

6. Finaly, we loose war in Irak, and Afghanistan,…we do not have victory, just empty time,…for unwise/out of correct time retieve of our troops
And also we do loose crediblity in ourselves and to the world, for determination is not achieved.

This is part of the ‘TROJAN HORSE EFFECT’ I spoke not too long ago. So we eventually and very soon, we find ourselves WIDE OPEN TO BE DESTROYED!

You know?,… certainly we do need that TIME MACHINE ,…. only, is not there now.

Does this sound science-fiction to you?,….too especulative?
Well, I do hope, and wish that this is not the case, for if by any chance IS LIKE THIS,….. DOES NOT LOOK GOOD AT ALL!

That is all , for now,…I do hope is not too hard for you,… something more, another time.
Sincerely,
Daniel Cabrera
Merrillville, Indiana

ECONOMY RELATED

Hello everyone;

The ’spread the wealth’ – the Obama’s socialistic/Marxist maneouver, brings some things of interest beside that not even in a million years , makes any sense whatsoever, for the math does not add-up.

Anyway, you know,…everyone, even Obama himself knows, that in order to accomplish what he promised or let so say ,…plans to do,..the money has to come from some place. THAT ‘SOME PLACE’ IS OUR VERY OWN TAXPAYERS SAVINGS! —-EXACTLY, ….FROM WHERE THE , so called ’stimulus’ are coming.

First, we had the first 700 Billion Bail-out (which is already misused and abused ) and a second one coming with another extra near 170 Billion!

So step by step, as I said before not too long ago, we are getting ‘deeper inside the abys.’
But,we are not to hit rock-bottom,…oh! no!,…we are going to go further down, – TRHOUGH THE ROCK-BOTTOM ALL THE WAY TO THE CENTER OF THE PLANET , TO THE MAGMA WHERE IS VERY HOT AND WE GET BURN THERE!

And you know what else?,…before the final financial demise, SOCIAL SECURITY CHECKS ARE TO BE REDUCED, AND EVENTUALLY ELIMINATED! ALONG WITH OTHERS SERVICES FOR ELDERLY, VETERANS, AND SPECIAL NEEDS PEOPLE.
And not to mention the community health services, nation-wide are going down to the ground too.
It is not a bad omen, or pesimistic view, is a REALITY!

THAT!, IS OBAMA FOR YOU.

You see, ALL KIND OF TAXES ARE GOING TO GET HIGHER, – ( in an attempt to compensate for this ’spread the wealth thing’ )..and there goes his promises!
What is needed to be done ( along with NOT TO RAISE TAXES OF ANY KIND ) – is a thing that he NEVER MENTIONED AND NEVER, EVER WILL MENTION ,..and is : – TO CLEAN WASHINGTON AND THE FINANCIAL SECTOR FROM THE CORRUPTION .

Everyone knows the story right?,…Freddie, Fannie corps, and corrupted CEO’s… Raines, Johnson, O’Neal, among others.

But that will never happen ( at least I do not expect it,..do you ? ) – for Obama-Reid-Pelosi,… along with Barney Frank and others are a very strong club.

So you see, all fits well in here as part of the ‘TROJAN HORSE FACTOR EFFECT’

Oh! boy! life is full of surprises, indeed! Out of curiousity, would you like to have that TIME MACHINE NOW AND UNDO WAT IS ALREADY DONE?

A tough one eh?,…well,…think about this one, if you will.

But this is for now,…another thing,… in another time.
Have a not too disturbing day.
Sincerely,
Daniel Cabrera
Merrillville, Indiana

SHORT COMMENTS, FOR STARTERS

Hello, everyone:

Beside high number of voting was done on basis of EMOTIONS rather than INTELLECT and KNOWLEDGE, others factors ; FRAUD, DECEPTION, EVASION, INTIMIDATIONS and PROTESTS WHEN COMMENTS WERE TOUCHING TRUTH ,…. all this from part of the democrats, (Obama camp, surrogates and acolades ) – all of those contributed to this ‘AMERICA EXPERIENCE’

All these factors played coordinated dynamics, which did bring as result, an ILEGITIMATE/UNLEGAL/INCORRECT ( take a pick) collective mishappen.

But then again, HISTORY is loaded with sad, ilegitimate, uncorrect not to mention MASS-PRODUCED STUPID OUTCOMES.

With that said, we can expect that in a very short time we would be more that glad to have a TIME MACHINE, to go back in time to undo was was done.

But as I said not too long ago; – for us humans TIME is variant that goes only one direction in the SPACE_TIME CONTINUUM,…in other words HE HAVE TO FACE THE CONSECUENCES OF OUR ACTIONS.

And my fellows americans, the future ahead seems to looks not so well.

So this only,… ‘FOR STARTERS’,…I will elaborate furhter another time.

Have a relax day.
Sincerely, with all due courtesy.
Daniel Cabrera
Merrillville, Indiana

It should not change. Affirmative Action is not just for African Americans. Many other minorites, such as Women, benefit from Affirmative Action.

daniel Cabrera,
I wish people like you didn't exist in the world. You insult "everyman," with your baseless driffle. You talk about sad history like some prophet of doom, well, you're talking about yourself and people like you. You're the sick pessimist who looks down on others and fosters contempt. You talk like your some kind of genius with your TIME MACHINE, SPACE TIME CONTINUUM nonsense that only proves you are a FOOL.
Then you have the audacity to end your piece with "Sincerely, with all due respect." You insult "everyman" and show only disrespect. You are a sick, twisted human being.
If I had a time machine I would send you back to the stone-age, where even "homo erectius" would have more intelligence than you.

Affirmative Action should continue 'ad infinitum,' until the day that the caucasian people of America need it themselves to get equal opportunity for employment.

All my life I have waited to see what Jesus spoke of. This election is the closest expression of fairness that I’ve seen. For the masses to overwhelm the powerful gives me peace in my heart. God has truly blessed America and in turn the world as a whole. I pray evil does not undo our positive possibility given to us by the vote. True democracy. The diversity of our nation along with the energy of our people can overcome all obstacles facing the human race. May we all come together as Americans and tackle the challenges we must face together to save our species and the beautiful creation of God.

Daniel Cabrera,
Are you feeling well? Hope you are not too upset.

I think this is a amazing day for america. One quesiton for the panel. What is your take on the reaction around the world about the election results.

Affirmative Action should stay in place for all Americans. Until we all are treated equally on all levels it should stay in place.

Thomas von der Dunk is the type of writer who talks awhole lot of nothing. It always some white guy like von der Dunk writing some assinine statement comparing Obama to Superman–in this case, Jesus Christ, the Savior or the Messiah in others.
"By not playing the ethnic card, Obama became 'normal' to many whites...." was another racist code word, on the web site in your link.

In some circles, journalists are not obligated to write responsible journalism. Mr. von der Dunk thinks himself some intellictual seer, giving America a good spanking in the rear with his ink and key-pad.
Mr. von der Dunk seems delighted to imply we as a nation are merely delusional, inferring that "the illusion of the newspaperboy-to-millionaire ideal..." is merely a hopeless dream.
Mr. Thomas von der Dunk, we have enough pessimists in America without you adding your voice to the fury. Limit yourself to writing about the Netherlands that you love so much; I for one wish you would go to the infernal region, but the Netherlands will do just fine for now.

Thomas von der Dunk is the type of writer who talks awhole lot of nothing. It always some white guy like von der Dunk writing some assinine statement comparing Obama to Superman–in this case, Jesus Christ, the Savior or the Messiah in others.
"By not playing the ethnic card, Obama became 'normal' to many whites...." was another racist code word, on the web site in your link.

In some circles, journalists are not obligated to write responsible journalism. Mr. von der Dunk thinks himself some intellictual seer, giving America a good spanking in the rear with his ink and key-pad.
Mr. von der Dunk seems delighted to imply we as a nation are merely delusional, inferring that "the illusion of the newspaperboy-to-millionaire ideal..." is merely a hopeless dream.
Mr. Thomas von der Dunk, we have enough pessimists in America without you adding your voice to the fury. Limit yourself to writing about the Netherlands that you love so much; I for one wish you would go to the infernal region, but the Netherlands will do just fine for now.

I am SO proud!!! He is going to be the best president our country has ever seen...been crying for happiness all day.

Yes. Affirmative Action should end. Barack Obama was raised poor, sought education, achieved success and is about to become the President of the United States of America! His story PROVES success can be achieved with hard work and determination.

It should end. Why should people not get jobs because they are not white it doesn't mean anything. Now that Barack Obama has become president he has jumped over a wall and all of us can too. It doesn't matter what color we are, we have come together as one and no one can break that from us. I don't see color I see the real America! America wouldn't be America with out all these amazing religions, colors, and communities. And now you,CNN workers can get some rest because the ELECTION is OVER!!!!!!!!!!!

Daniel your posts make no sense but if your that upset there is always Canada or Mexico.

I believe we still need affirmative action so that everyone has an equal shot a employment, raises, and promotions. By everyone I mean Black, White, Yellow, Gay, Straight, Religious, Non Religious, Man, Woman, Young or Old. We all need affirmative action.

At thsi point in time it is sad to say that it is still needed in large parts of this country. Unfortunately, it has also become the one thing ti foguth so hard against; Prejudice.

Affirmative action is now a more subtle form of prejudice... tokenism.

What is Larry's infatuation with Bill Maher about?

although we are all excited about the prospects ahead for this country it is a shame that not once did cnn acknowlege the vote of the first americans...native americans...after all we were here before the first step was taken towards this continent by anyone else and this country is not just made up of black, white and latino voters

People need to wake up and not call the president elect Obama "black". His soul is the same colour as everyone else on earth. Colour should not be the distinctive characteristic to describe him.

We wish him well – he has a tough job ahead of him!

I am the first one to give Obama a chance. Did not vote for him but it is over and everyone needs to get over it all. One thing I do not like and never will is THAT IS HE IS ALWAYS RUNNING AS A BLACK MAN, BUT THAT IS NOT TRUE, HIS MOM WAS WHITE AND WHAT COLOR WERE THE PEOPLE THAT RAISED HIM, THEY WERE WHITE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! This is the most point I hate about this, he maybe saw his father 3 times in his life, but otherwise his white family took care and raised him. He needs to give them some thanks and stand up and say he is both. One other thing, I think he will do great but his wife has a long way to go before I will approve of her as first Lady!!!!!!!!!! Right now she does not have it. Again he needs to recognize he is not Black!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

pam t

I have no problem with Obama being black...but there are to many unanswered questions about him. I think his inexperience and his ideas are going to hurt our country. After watching news all evening, I do have to comment on how I thought this election was not about race. We are all going to wake up one morning to a socialist country and then we have to ask ourselves one question...who did we vote for? I voted for McCain.

Sarah Palin was interviewed today. She stated that, (to paraphrase) she didn't think anything she said had cost JOHN MCCAIN the election.
Wait a minute.....wasn't she running, too? Didn't she lose as well? Statements like these demonstrate the total disconnect between these two ex-candidates!

Being a 41 year old, white male from small town SE Iowa, I could not be more excited about the history that I was privileged to be apart of last night.
this was my "JFK" election!

Hi Larry,

I am thrilled at the outcome of the election.

I think, though, that a small fact has fallen through the cracks. "Yes We Can" as a catch phrase goes back to 1965. It entered the American lexicon as the title of Sammy Davis Jr.'s autobiography, "Yes I Can". Perhaps it would be a good idea to credit Sammy as the originator of that thought. Having known Sammy, I'm sure you agree that he was the embodiment of all "Yes I Can" entails – determination, self confidence and the talent to back it up. The same qualities that Barack Obama brings to the table.

Somewhere, Sammy is smiling.

With the SOLID, 2 TO 1, HARD EARNED, WELL FOUGHT VICTORY this election and that going to Barack Hussein Obama [and I say that with all pride and mirth], we have REDISCOVERED the New World.

Thanks Bill! Just remember you are going to benefit from President Obama's policies as well.

Cindy, you can find out who Barack Obama by visiting his website. Just remember you will benefit from his policies as well as those that voted for him. He will stand up for you too!

I wish President elect Obama the best
I just wish the "white Latino chinese black" Americans would stop labeling each other with race colour religon etc Obama is not black he is mixed a american you are all American one and all
It is time for change America Please change

Pam Treadwell November 5th, 2008 9:11 pm ET

I am the first one to give Obama a chance. Did not vote for him but it is over and everyone needs to get over it all. One thing I do not like and never will is THAT IS HE IS ALWAYS RUNNING AS A BLACK MAN, BUT THAT IS NOT TRUE, HIS MOM WAS WHITE AND WHAT COLOR WERE THE PEOPLE THAT RAISED HIM, THEY WERE WHITE!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! This is the most point I hate about this, he maybe saw his father 3 times in his life, but otherwise his white family took care and raised him. He needs to give them some thanks and stand up and say he is both. One other thing, I think he will do great but his wife has a long way to go before I will approve of her as first Lady!!!!!!!!!! Right now she does not have it. Again he needs to recognize he is not Black!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

pam t

here’s a more apt question Pam Treadwell… why is it soooo important for you to bring up his white side? Are you trying to bring yourself to terms with the fact that you, in your heart of hearts, have a preference for white people and people more like you than like black people? If so… there’s a seat next to Isreal’s Dan Gillerman for you.

Larry,

i believe that affirmative practices should not be ended because even though Barack Obama is the 1st black president, it does not mean that we need to stop working on how to make the American people more comfortable about making decisions that affect us all as a unison.

Hi Larry,

Bill Maher needs to be quiet!!!! He's talking about Mrs. Palin having ambtiion!!! What about Obama??? Why do you think he ran for President?? Of course he has ambition!!!! Everyone needs to be quiet at CNN!!! about Mrs. Palin! There's alot of Republicans out there that supported Palin. Obama got lucky!!!! he bought the election!!!
Just think what Palin and McCain would have done if they would of had the amount of money that Obama got from all the rich black and white actors, etc. He definately bought his position in the White House. Larry, Obama already won the election so what is Bill's point on continuing the insults!!!! And not just Bill Maher, but alot of your people that work at CNN!!!

it's so funny (and perhaps poignant,) that blacks are shouting we won and po' ol' white folks are worried about a black man, when a great part of the beauty of Obama's election is he's half-black, half-white and raised by a white grandmother. as an individual, he's the melting pot America is supposed to be. as for his political agenda, time will tell, but after the past 25 yrs of corporate fascism (it's been pretty damned close to that, too much so for what's supposed to be a democratic republic) the USA needs a radical change. Obama's a constitutional scholar; let's see how well he studied the document and learned his lessons.

Oh What a Day!
I am a proud Afro-Guyanese citizen and I watch with awe. what took place last night.
Great jon to you too Larry.
However, I would like to know if you share the same sentiments with the contributor who was just on the NO SPIN ZONE, who thinks that I was bad for teh report to not show his emotions on National Television, because he was working.
Daune

What we have now is a man who has the potential to be as good as JFK or even better. What we need to do is find out how we, as a nation, can do to help him live up to that potential because he needs US–blue/red states, people of all parties, all religious groups...

I had two computers running last night...on one, I was chatting with a friend in Canada who couldn't wait to return to the US. On the other, I was checking out the Americorps website.

Imagine, just for a moment, what we, as a nation, could accomplish if everyone–every man, woman, and child–volunteered...

Thank you American from the world! Thank you for renewing the the Ideal of the American! I can say for my fellow Canadians & the world – we're now proudly all BORN-AGAIN AMERICAN!

Michael,
Do you think that President Obama will have to work"twice as hard to be thought half as good"?

Barack Obama won because he was the best candidate. Not because of his race, not because of his color. The polls showed as much. They thought he could best do the job. In other words meritocracy. The best guy won! As such why the resistance against banning affirmative action?

WOW .. What A Terrible Question ???
With all the things you might have asked .. how in world did you come up with a question about AFFIRMATIVE ACTION ???

Sorry to criticize .. Especially when ..
My Name Is Robert Kennedy
I'm A BIG LARRY KING Fan
He and I were born on the same day !!!
November 19th
The more famous Robert F Kennedy was born November 20th

Michael... should we still impeach Bush to stop him from pardening his gang before leaving office

In certain areas I feel we should keep the affirmative action program. However, in other areas were serious consequences can result from not having the best person for the job, it should be scaled back. That is simply to protect us all.

Obama should of lost

Colorless America's leader Obama will be world Ambassdor to bring peace, economic development and respect for U.S for what it stands for.

The victory of Obama is only the beginning of America's move towards equality in true sense. We are still far from it. It therefore is still our responsibility to aid those who are underprivileged to rise to the level when they themselves can write another obama story....,

I have not heard anyone in the media mention this yet, but one of the most striking things to me about this election are the number of young people, myself included who had written off the political process in this country, and for many of us, this is the first time in our adult lives we can say that

WE ARE PROUD OF OUR COUNTRY FOR THE FIRST TIME IN OUR ADULT LIVES!

I'm not a Democrat. I sure as hell ain't a Republican, either. Based on my views, I'm considered a liberal, but above all that, I'm an American – a human being. I'm a patriot. I love my country. I love my country enough to vote for a person who will inspire an entire nation. As of about 11 PM EST, last night, this country is already a better place.

President-elect Barack Obama said:
This victory alone is not the change we seek – it is only the chance for us to make that change.

Barack Obama will bring this country together. We will be one United States of America. Together we stand, divided we fall.

Yes, I think they should, for race anyways. Maybe affirmative action for people in poverty of any color. What do you think?

I honestly think that this election was a proof that we are NOT racist. Please african-americans stop acting like everything is your fault, and please allow us to make innocent comments about a black person, without prejudice. It's not because we say the words "black", african-american, and such that we are offending you.
thanks, M.

Hello Larry,
First time I have blogged like this. I haven't heard any commentators mention the Republicans that voted for Obama. Many of us long time Republicans have, and it was more for the man and the potential, than just typical Democrat platform. Just thought I would share that. I always said in the past that as much as I voted a platform, that it might be some day the test to vote for a man of the other party. And this election was that time.
We will pray for him.
Thank you.

I saw an email from a viewer on CNN earlier. He said if 95% of whites voted for McCain, blacks would say they were racist.
Well, I am just wondering what % of blacks voted for Clinton, Gore, and Kerry? The majority of black people always vote Democrat. When will people get their minds out of the racism gutter?

Affirmative action should be extended to include those who are discriminated against outside basic ethnic background and origin to sexual gender, orientation and cross gender. I am a hetro-sexual married male, 44 years old who has two beautiful children (like President Obama). I want these children, as well as all people, to have equal opportunity regardless of race, belief or sexual orientation.

Obama's victory is not because of his intellect or glamour ;it is because of what Bush did to the world and USA in particular.
I hope he can find out who the real terrorists are in this world and hang them in public.

President elect -Obama is not a black president, but an American president.

Sometimes we fail to see/understand the math.

All things considered - Obama was inevitable.

Blacks still make up a disproportionate number of incarcerated people. Blacks men with no felony is at the same disadvantage as a white man with a felony. Blacks are disproportionately poor and under-educated. Blacks are still suffering from over 400 years of slavery in this country. Until blacks are doing as well as the rest of society, affirmative action will be needed!

I am a white female who voted for Obama, but I have to say I resent the comments of some pundits and media editorialsts who implied that if Obama lost it would have been because "white Americans, when push comes to shove, wouldn't have been able to bring themselves to elect a black man as president of the United States.' Yes, there is racism in America, but many white people voted against Obama for reasons other than race. In the future, will the African-American population in the US claim "racism" if other black presidential candidates lose (which I am sure there will be)?? Will Americans be afraid to vote against black candidates because they won't want to be accused of racism?? If America is truly "post-racial,' then race should not matter on either side.

Eventually affirmative action will go away – maybe not yet – I think it is a generational thing and still has its place. My college age kids don't even see color. God willing that line of thinking will continue and we will truly be the melting pot we are meant to be. I am proud to report that my children, myself, my husband, my parents and my 90-year-old grandmother proudly voted for Obama yesterday – in the Blue state of Pennyslvania!

Unfortunately we haven't come far enough to just do away with affirmative action YET! Obama getting in office doesn't mean that racism is gone from the minds of all U.S. citizens. When the actual face of the United States changes to brown and whites are the minority, then we will be able to dump affirmative action.

Do you think that Obama will attempt to prevent terrorism through trying to win hearts and minds of young Muslims worldwide, rather than the failed policy of might and force?

Larry I thought Michael Moore was going to be your guest? All I see is Jabba he Hut. So what happened?

As a young african-american man I am very elated and proud of Americas choice last night to vote then senator Barack Obama now president elect Obama. There is no question that this was just a sign that the american people are ready to see change and believe that president elect Obama is the person at this time to lead us through.

How about Colin Powell for Secretary of Defense? I thought that would have been a better fit for him even in W's cabinet. If not Powell, Wesley Clark?

I'm from Canada, Toronto and was watching history in the making yesterday. I'm truly inspired by Barack Obama, and hopeful that everything will turn around for America. It was a great night and will open so many doors of opportunities for minorities not only in America, but in the entire world. YES WE CAN!

With this historic victory, Obama has opened the doors for many of us to reach and strive for things we have only dreamed of. Affirmative Action should remain in place to ensure that we can take the necessary steps to achieve those dreams.

I realy dont think it was right for obama to walk in and say that he is black, his mom is actualy white. but then if he were to say that then he would get the african americans mad. he would then not get the votes for african americans. all becauseit would anger them that he is possibly not wanting to be black, not saying that he doesn't.

I am a 59-year-old white woman who had come to the conclusion that the America I grew up in, the America my dear brother fought and died for in Viet Nam was gone forever. The past 8 years of the Republican regime had left me, and millions of other "real Americans," tattered, bruised, and hopeless. I believed our rights and our American way of life were a thing of the past, and had decided if this election was stolen from us as the recent past elections have been, I was done and ready to happily leave her and give up my citizenship. Barack's election has restored a glimmer of hope within me, and I am hopeful the country will unite behind him and begin healing the gap.

Larry,

It's kind of funny how the Democrats get their win and liberals like Bill Moyers are still hanging the past failures on the neck of George Bush. I guess that's what we can expect from other liberals if something goes wrong when Obama takes office. Just blame it on the past eight years and the Bush administration; everybody else does.

Larry:

This election has symbolically placed a brick on the incomplete pyramid that represents our country that our founding fathers left for us to strive to complete. However, it does not eradicate the injustices, prejudices, and ignorance that exist in mankind or to counter praise Lincoln, our worse angels dominating.

Affirmative Action, although not a catch all remedy to combat these injustices, should still be left in place to ensure that these elements of inequalities never dominate.

In the final analysis, Affirmative Action is in a sense of Thomas Jefferson, the eternal vigilance needed to ensure a freedom.

I'm keeping my fingers tightly crossed that President-elect Barck Obama will invite retired Gen. Colin Powell to be Sec. of State again. I think Powell and Obama would make an outstanding pair and provide the most resounding resolutions any two great minds could ever ascertain. And what a bipartisian statement it would make to have a republican as your Sec. of State. slg

Last night was amazing! I have to share something special about Barack Obama. Even before he went to Grant Park to give his victory speech, he sent an email to me (and I am sure every single contributor with an email address) a special message thanking me personally for my support. I quote a small portion of it " I want to be very clear about one thing...All of this happened because of you."
This is a man who knows how to bring all of us to his side to make this country what it should be.
Nora Borgstrom
Everett, Washington

I am so excited. I think it means alot to all people. Roland Martin got it right last night.. people of color can now answer our children in TRUTH and believe our own answers when they want to be President ...yes they can!

There will be children playing on the grounds of the White House...
Black children and children of many different races are going to be playing...

No, affirmative action should not end. Just take a look at the southern states and you'll see there is a lot of work to be done.

Affirmative action practices should be ended, but not necessarily because Obama has been named president-elect. The practice is dated and biased; while it was designed to present minorities with more opportunities, it has only served to inhibit the majority. As a student at Northeastern University, it's frustrating to see the effects of affirmative action. A first-time voter, I cast my vote for Obama because I feel he is a highly qualified and insightful man – race did not play that much of a role. But his election does represent the face of a new America, a more diverse and energized people. Affirmative action practices should end, but not simply because of these election results.

Why was Martin Luther King crying yesterday? was it tears of joy. If so he shoul know that its an answered prayer. If its because of what happened between then, he should forgive himself, for Obama has forgiven him already.

Yes we can, yes we will

I hope the "CHANGE" means new faces in the cabinet and governmental key posts...and not the John Kerry's of Washington...President-elect Obama needs to seek out new talent in a methodical and deliberate manner!

My first gut reaction was to say "YES! END AFFIRMATIVE ACTION!" because I want to believe with Obama as president a miracle has happened and we have progressed beyond racism and ignorance to a time when employers don't discriminate. A time when we don't have to wonder if we were hired because we were the "token" African American, the "token" disabled person or question "did they hire me only because I was the only female candidate?" I've seen the negative side of Affirmative Action – being hired or selected not because you are qualified, but because you are fulfilling a number, forcing you to question your own capabilities and as the token being put in a position to constantly prove to yourself and to your peers you were qualified not just a quota. This is just as bad as not being hired (although it pays better than unemployment!). But how can we have Affirmative Action, forcing employers to balance minority quotas when educational opportunities for minorities is still lacking . How can minorities compete without the same advantages in education? It's a much bigger picture than just Affirmative Action. I also know freedom from discrimination isn't here yet. When minorities become the majority can we get rid of Affirmative Action? When minorities become the majority in higher management positions? When women are finally paid as much as men? Or will it continue to hang around our necks reminding us we still have so far to go? I look forward when we are not statistics and labels and quotas and just Americans, equal and free to pursue our dreams and rise above the expectations of our minority group. I have hope with Obama we are going in that direction.

The election of President Obama is only the beginning of change. As history has illustrated, change is gradual therefore eliminating Affirmative Action practices now would be presumptive and premature. After all, it took nearly 45years after Dr. Kings speech to produce last night's historic victory. We have a long way to go Larry.

I cannot believe that Magic Johnson had the nerve to compare Barack Obama's intellegence to that of Bill Clinton's. What an insult from this Johnny come lately. It is clear that the President Elect is Bill's superior in terms of his intellectual capacity. If anything, it is Bill Clinton and Magic Johnson who would need to come up to the level of Mr. Obama in this category.

I fear that Barack will become a target for the lunatics out there that are still filled with racial hate. It only takes one person. I am concerned for his safety.

It is a big step for the nation to elect a black president, but the race problems will not magically go away. I am very proud to be an American, and get to see this history happen.

After 40 years, the promise of the Eugene McCarthy campaign (and the Robert Kennedy campaign) has matured, and we can finally say, "No, Carl Albert, YOU are out of order!".

Wonderful coverage last night, CNN. You are awesome!

–Mike

I Think this is good positive momentum that Obama has built here which is giving hope to most of us but the question which only time would answer is would he cut taxes for the Masses , would he really take a dig at wealth amassing Insurance and health care companies, would he do something in the education sector ??

Nobody is expecting miracles here but we all hoping for CHANGE

I hope and wish good luck to him and he continues to be the hope !!

I Bet this would have made Nelson mandela ,MLK , mahatma Gandhi Proud

The election of Barack Obama as our president will hopefully be the beginning of an era of erasing the "isms" that have fractured our country in the past. However, until equality exists in all areas affirmative action is still necessary to pave the way.

As a 64 year old white woman who voted for Barack, I can tell you that I haven't shed tears of joy as I did last night since Nixon resigned. If Barack can bring hope to me at my age, I can only imagine what the young people are feeling right now. Ah, it's like the sixties - without the drugs.

Hi Larry!!

The UN had condemned the Cuban embargo for 17 years now, and no one do anything about it. I will really like to know if Obama will do something as part of his foreign policies, since all Latin America thinks this is a biggest genocide than Iraq or any other war.

Either way I think that the best thing that has happened to the USA since the Clinton administration just happened yesterday.

I am an 18, african american woman of mixed race and I was fortunate enough to grow up in an environment where I was given equal opportunities and have experienced few injustices. I believe that affirmative action was necessary at the time it was introduced but I think that last night's result proves one thing clearly: african americans have overcome many obstacles and are able to stand on their own without the help of government action or handouts. Affirmative action is no longer needed for us to compete in sense, Obama has shown this clearly.

I see that this is a very glorious and happy day for our whole country. I am a white woman, a mother, a proud american. I have hope for our future as fellow Americans, and as people. My faith in our country is restored, and hope is a very powerful thing. The campaign was brilliant, and full of grace, and I am proud of that too. McCain gave a beautiful concession speech, which is a good way to end such an ugly and desperate campaign. We have come a long way, and have so many more wonderful things to accomplish. I see a brighter future for my family, and especially my children.

Concerning the question of the day "With President-Elect Barack Obama’s historic election to the US presidency, should Affirmative Action practices end? What do you think?"
It was hard for me to put my answer in one of the three choices. While Obama's election is a good sign, we still have to make progress in ensuring everyone have a chance. But I am sure that Obama would agree that the best thing is to evolve our system and way of life so that it isn't a color that gets the job, but the best one for the job.

No Affirmative Action practices shouldn't end. There are still many people out there that feel blacks only has one place in this world and it it's being the president of the united states and until we as a whole come over come that we will always be divided.

Congratulations!! Obama has broken all norms with his absolute resolve and ultimate grace that I hope will become the embodiment of the world character for the days to come. He and the American people have proven the old rule of character i.e. "To be humble in victory and gracious in defeat". We beleive he will make the US the real United States of America by taking people from all walks of life and all denominations of society along with him through this epic journey of change and betterment.

The most amazing thing about this election is that my son who is only 4 years old will always know a world where race was not the determining factor in the election of our president. In his reality, this will be the norm, and not the monumentous victory as it is in my eyes.

I wonder if President Bush would let President-Elect Obama borrow the "Mission Accomplished" banner?

That is a good question. I am not quite sure that affirmative action should end with Barack Obama being president. There are still going to be negative perceptions, views, prejudices and hatred out there, as that was display during this campaign for the presidency. I will say this, to avoid affirmative action being an issue, African American, and I am speaking directly to African American males, we need to raise our expectations and commitment and work ethic even more. The decision makers will be looking closely at us now and draw comparison unintentionally. So if we as African American males step up to the challenge, be professional, make the change we need not only in the work environment but the environment in our community and household, it will all come together. Then, only then will we need not to talk about or even think about affirmative action. Our presence and character alone will be enough.

Tory
Orlando, Florida

Hi Vicky Bell, I was raised in Radcliff, Kentucky and Chicago, Illinois.

seriously, why did the republicans think they had any chance of winning this election? the bush administration has to be the worst administration in terms of knowledge and efficiency. there was not one great moment from the start of his administration and he should never have been re-elected for a second term. i am a white, married, father of two and i was emotional as well watching the events unfold last night. i finally feel that the future is looking up for my family and myself and i can't wait to see how the obama administration proves all of the republicans wrong and i hope they are mature enough to admit that they were wrong about him.

Larry,

The 44th President........wow. Larry all this means is that American has been voting since 1832 and it took 176 years for this HISTORIC moment to arrive. ECSTATIC, ORGASMIC ....FIND THE ADJECTIVES for me Larry.

THE DREAMER (Martin Luther King Jr)
THE DREAM (Barack Obama -President Elect)

WOOOOOOOHHHHHHH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! YESSSS

Hi Larry, I am writing from Toronto Canada. This is an amazing time for the United States and the World. Barak Obama is the first African American President . He also represents change in its highest form. Thank you America for doing the right thing.
I would have loved to have the opportunity to vote for Obama in this election. It was so exciting to hear his speech last night and to be part of the excitement. I look forward to January 20th, 2009.

Best Wishes from your neighbour to the south,

Debra

Bill Mahr is a man of poor taste. I don't know why Larry can give him so much time. Jesus Christ is the only hope we have. Obama means hope?

He is a typical politition who looks and speaks good and got elected.

CNN is so liberally bias, that it goes to the point I will cancel my cable and no longer watch it foe anything.

I would far rather hear Newt Gingrich and his take on the situation, rather than all these liberal left atheistic people you have on too much!

This may be a historic election, but is it because hes black? I am sorry but if Barack Obama's presidency is only marked in the history books as "the first black president" then this country has failed...

No. Affirmative action should not end. This is because human have a tendency to forget the struggle for equalities. Hence, affirmative action should continue to be implemented because having an african American president does not mean that all discriminations will end, or that minorities will cease to exist. It merely means that human have finally evolved, and that the Americans are living up to what they have been preaching or emulating to foreigners all these while – equal opportunities for all.

When president elect Obama spoke during his 30 minutes of primetime, it was the first opportunity that I had, to really listen to what he had to say and how he had said it. Being a Canadian...I could only comment that I wished that I was an American so that I would have the opportunity to vote for him. President elect Obama has the privilege to lead and do great things at this moment or he can forfeit the chance that he has to make a difference.

I'm a Canadian (white if it makes a difference) and Canadians are ecstatic for our neighbors. Senator Obama will bring a sense of community and a sense of social cohesion that will restore America's good name. This has helped redeem the US in the eyes of the world. Lets work towards peace and end war. America has taken its first step in the right direction...Congratulations!

I'm no Joe the Plumber, so far be it from me to make such a call. However, I will state that Pres-Elect Obama, Gen Colin Powell, Sec Condoleezza Rice, Oprah, Tyler Perry and other highly successful African-Americans are proof that nothng is impossible w/hard work, dedication and determination. The only one who can stop you is you. Love your show Larry!

I am also thrilled he was elected! It is not just that he is the first person of color to be elected, or that he represents America multilaterally , because he is as much African American as he is white. If he was none of those things he is still the best prepared by education, the best organized as demonstrated by the very methodical and issue focused campaign. He wore his victory with both humility and confidence. I really feel we have a chance to bring our country back to it's former respectability in the world, give us back our shrinking middle class which has made our country unique and our democracy work. He also goes into office with a congressional majority behind him, so he is primed to accomplish a great deal. I pray he remains safe. And by the way, I am a white, working middle class woman whom he is supposed to have lost!

As a long time Democrat, I'm fed up with people saying things like "I'm moving to Canada". These are the types that break down our system. This government was put in place by some very strong, intelligent, future seeing men. (did we forget John Adams?) Even though those men were from a different time, they did what was best for the country and for the future of our country. People that say they want to move to Canada or Mexico are traitors to thier own country. I say to them, then move. We don't need people here who are not patriots.

The world is rejoicing that America has chosen not only the best candidate, but also a man of colour. Finally, you have moved from a nation that enslaved people, a nation that killed over 600,000 of your citizenry in a Civil War, a nation that segregated and beat civil rights supporters, to a nation of equality, liberty, justice, and opportunity for all. Congrats on peace with your neighbours, health care for all, responsible foreign policy without pre-conditions, and an America that has earned itself an entirely new and respected place in our times, right across the globe.

I am so proud to be an American and so proud of our country and all of us who believed in the basic premise of our constitution. It is a brave new world. The whole world was watching and the whole world is celebrating as a giant sigh of relief is exhaled across the globe. Hold your head high and roll up your sleeves America, because there is a lot of clean-up ahead. All of us must begin thinking about a plan as each of us has a role in creating change and feeding the momentum. Momentum cannot be created nor destroyed. Thank you, Obama and thank you, America!

Today I am proud to be an American. President elect Barack Obama has transcended political, geographical, and racial lines to become someone we all can believe in. God's speed to Mr. Obama as he helps restore peace to the world.

Affirmative action is not just about color. It is to help ALL MINORITIES!!! this includes women. I feel that women are discriminated against more than those of any color.

Last night was not only a victory for Barack Obama and the United States of America but a victory for the whole world. I extend my sincere congratulations Mr. Obama, his family and to the citizens of the USA.

I think affirmative action should end, but not just because of the Obama's win. Affirmative action seems to me merely another form of discrimination. I don't think it's fair to give preferential treatment based on a person's ancestors. As a white male, I don't think that I should be considered less qualified for a college because of the past injustices done upon others by people of my race.

Why do people assume that white people who didn't vote for Obama are racists? God forbid that we disagree with his policies. I voted against Obama because he wants the federal government to solve everyones problems. I would gladly vote for an African American, or any other race for that matter if they represented my beliefs. When people assume that those who voted against Obama are racist though – they should think about who the real Bigots are.

I was born in Africa and I have travelled around the world and know I know how the world sees America. His election alone will RESTORE the moral standing of America around the world.

I also think his victory just shows that we have made some progress as a nation but we still have a long way to go as far as race relations are concerned. It indicates that there are still racists and bigots out there in Sarah Palin's real America but there are not that many of them to stop this country from getting to the mountain top as a unit and most importantly stop minorities from attaining the same things that white America takes for granted.

Affirmative Action, if anything should be expanded to assist anyone in need. There are millions of Americans of all colors and mixes, that can use a hand up to help them achieve their potential... There are so many minority groups in America that are not segregated by race, but by socio-economic, location, education, etc... We have plenty of opportunity to lift people up by providing them access to programs to help them achieve their goals and allow them the the ability to participate and give back to America...

I am a 40 yr old Hispanic woman who has voted in the last 3 elections yesterday was one of the most emotional and personal things that I have lived through, I considered it an honor to be able to vote for Obama, I pray for this country and I pray for him that the right choices are made in the coming months so that we as a country do not continue to feel desperate with what is going on in OUR country.

I don't think the question is relevant just because an African American is President.Affirmative action will still have its place,although i believe cases should be reviewed specifically.
I can only hope as a white American,that someday,we will be able to completely abolish it in hope that its no longer necessary.I believe the election of Barack Obama will put this country on track to end segregation everywhere and promote integration in our communities.

Black, or white Obama was the superior candidate and ran a much better campaign. Obama's campaign stuck to the issues, and was much classier than McCain's.

No, we MUST not do away with Affirmative Action. Not only does it help people of color, it also helps women, children, etc.
I watched the wonderful speech in Chicago last night, I saw tears falling down Jessie Jacksons face and wondered what thoughts must have been going through his mind at that moment. Then I wondered what the thoughts of Martin Luther Kings family must be. It was wonderful to know that we are not a nation divided any longer and that we are one people.

I mean Jesse Jackson, why was he crying yesterday? was it tears of joy. If so he shoul know that its an answered prayer. If its because of what happened between then, he should forgive himself, for Obama has forgiven him already.

Yes we can, yes we will. God bless America

As a 44 year old white canadian female, I am elated that Obama is now President elect......He is Intelligent, A speaker who draws an audience in. He offers Promise and Hope To every Country in the world.....GO Obama!!!!

There will always be a mandate for affirmative-action-type efforts as long as there continue to be groups lacking in opportunities and under-represented, in a society like ours aspiring to build a better world.
It is a time to rejoice for having elected our very first black president. I am proud of that for our country.
By the way, I am an immigrant who came to this country illegally during the years of civil war in my native El Salvador, I am now an engineer working for NASA. Every adult member of my family is a productive member of this society and we are all grateful for the opportunities we've found here. We are also ecstatic about what happened yesterday. Even my 90-year old grandmother prayed a rosary giving thanks to God for Obama's election.
Go America! We still have much, much more to accomplish, especially after the mis-steps of the past few years.

Obama is not the only one who made history Nov 4, 2008. The American people also made history by voting him into the Presidency, did they not??

Affirmative Action is wrong in principle however I feel it to be necessary considering that our society still operates under a fundamentally flawed and racially (and gender) unequal structure. Numbers don't lie. White males are in a better position to make more money attain higher positions in this country. Electing an African American president does not erase a history of oppression.

Affirmative Action should stay, but It needs to move beyond quotas.

"I still believe in affirmative action as a means of overcoming both historic and potentially current discrimination, but I think that it can't be a quota system and it can't be something that is simply applied without looking at the whole person, whether that person is black, or white, or Hispanic, male or female. What we want to do is make sure that people who've been locked out of opportunity are going to be able to walk through those doors of opportunity in the future."
– Barack Obama

Until there is an end to quotas that vision is impossible for half the groups mentioned in his quote.

daniel Cabrera November 5th, 2008 6:28 pm ET

Hello everyone;

OF INTERNATIONAL SCENARIO

1. Irael makes a pre-empt attack to Iran for the clear and present threat Iran poses to this nation.
Obama will not do ABSOLUTELY NOTHING for he would say :…
So, that is one for saying that we are friends of the jews,…so, alliance is down to the ground.

James... IF Isreal were to make a pre-emptive atack, and based on the shoddy intel that Bush used, they would deserve whatever they got, however, I find that highly unlikely since Sharon and those like him are largely out of power. Nor would Barack obama do absolutely nothing, that is just your opinion, and you have NOTHING to back it up with.

2. Russia invades adjacent territories: Estonia, Lavstia, Ukrania,…a continuation of maneuvers like
in Georgia. Obama would leave this to the European Consortium for we are in the west side of the
planet.

James... You keep telling yourself that and you're going to have nightmares. Fortunately your fears of his inaction once again are entirely irrational.

3. But Russia too, in combination with Venezuela ( Hugo Chavez) attempt to expand and ‘re-new
old Soviet Empire’ here in our very own backyard,…and should be successful, for Obama will stay
out of it, also.

James... Agian, not bloody likely.

4. Due to condecending/friendly criteria on border-security, laws and guidelines on ilegal alilens,
the drug-traffic cartel from Mexico and other places from Latin America, increase as result.

James... Get an education. You are CLEARLY being lied to, and greatly misinformed.

5. Because around 25% decrease in national defense, our security, domestic and abroad is to be
with high vulnerability….along with the inability to spot and stop ‘fifth columnist (spies) form
terrorist factions enhance the danger for our beloved country .

James... Again, not going to happen. Your fears are unjustified, illegitimate, irational and baseless. Please, see a psychiatrist before oyu do something stupid... like stick a fork in an electrical outlet.

6. Finaly, we loose war in Irak, and Afghanistan,…we do not have victory, just empty time,…for unwise/out of correct time retieve of our troops
And also we do loose crediblity in ourselves and to the world, for determination is not achieved.

James... Again, you are greatly misinformed. Dont' get hysterical.

This is part of the ‘TROJAN HORSE EFFECT’ I spoke not too long ago. So we eventually and very soon, we find ourselves WIDE OPEN TO BE DESTROYED!

James... no, you just find yourself in a straight jacket. And I say that recognizing for pattern of crazy posts here.

You know?,… certainly we do need that TIME MACHINE ,…. only, is not there now.

James... See? Crazy.

Does this sound science-fiction to you?,….too especulative?
Well, I do hope, and wish that this is not the case, for if by any chance IS LIKE THIS,….. DOES NOT LOOK GOOD AT ALL!

James... Actually it sounds liek republican brainwashing to me.

That is all , for now,…I do hope is not too hard for you,… something more, another time.
Sincerely,
Daniel Cabrera
Merrillville, Indiana

James... Good luck Daniel. And please... call Charter hospitals, and if oyu don't call Charter...please, call someone. Bellvue perhaps.

Although we have come a long way, we still need Affirmative Action.
There are still too many racists in this country who will take out their anger on Obama on other minorities. We are not there yet. Let's ask that question again in 4 years.

Congratulations to Obama and USA.
We hope that Obama and new government of USA will make the American dream come true.
Canada is very happy for the choice that American people did.

Hello Mr.king,
It is a great feeling and once again it reaffirms that anything is possible in this country and this is a land of opportuinity provided you are hungry enough to grab the opportuinity.

We love and support Obama in The Cayman Islands. May God richly bless him and his family. Go Obama go.

Affirmative Action should not end because a barrier was broken in a long standing american tradition as Mr. Barack Obama is the first black president of the USA.

There are still racial divides in this country, at times I believe this nation is segregated in some degrees. Until, we truly learn to get over the psychological practices and beliefs embedded in our minds by our grandparents to our parents and us the children seeing that all people are human, then Affirmative Action must be practiced to level the playing field for all.

Barack Obama has broken a huge barrier and as he said last night this is only the beginning of change.

At last we have elected a true American! A man whose background covers many countries, races and cultures. This is what this country is all about, a melting pot of many races, a place where the "American Dream" still lives on, and where each citizen can make a difference. He is the embodiment of the American spirit and I feel that he will make a huge impact on the face of our nation and the world. I have never been so proud to be an American as today! It has been a GLORIOUS day!!

Just because there is a person of color in the White House doesn't mean that Affirmative Action needs to end. In my mind it has barely started in the fact that I see racism everyday towards people of color, it's just done more subtlely instead of how obvious racism was in the past. I pray that we as a nation can get past this and realize that there are ignorant people of all colors and we can move on and get this country back on track. God bless America, even the racists.

Larry, there are many of us with WHITE skin shedding tears in celebration of this victory. We have fought for decades to assure that every American is offered the same opportunity. We have African American friends and family members. We know that the world cannot survive the divisiveness that has marked our history - and we are SO PROUD OF BARACK OBAMA, have so much faith that he is right to lead our future and so happy that our country has chose this direction. I DO understand the immense and deserved pride that African Americans have in this victory - as white Americans, we are proud and hopeful, too. It is so exciting that we will go forward TOGETHER.

OBAMA bought himself the election, w/ the likes of his radical friends, the MEDIA, celebrities, ACORN. He didn't win it. He will not unite us. Racial tensions are already surfacing. I guess anyone could win if you had the media, acorn, rock stars, celebrities, the TV propoganda behind you. Real americans didn't have a chance. WE look forward to the discovery of illegal funding.

This man's election is the next best thing to having Hillary Clinton win the White House as the first credible woman candidate, if one is a female voter of the '60 and '70s Womens Rights Movement. So, it is very important that our younger voters realize how those of us who were teens and in our 20's back in the civil rights movement of the '60s fought alongside our black and native american citizens for so hard to change. In Vietnam, blacks, whites and the real Americans of this land, here long before the rest of us, stood beside one another, fought and died together, and returned home to a very divided country. The thinking and attitudes of the generations before us were embarrassing, hateful and devisive. We wanted to make a better world for minorities, women and anyone denied their basic rights as citizens of this country which was suppose to be about freedom for all, not just white men. It's been a long road, a hard fight and now we tak joy in sharing the victory over prejudice, hatred and bigotry. All who supported then-Sen. Obama deserve credit for acting as one do whatt is just and right for our beloved America and our image in the world, which sees us as the best of the best once again.

What a night for America. What a night for the world.

Goodbye to the fear, lies, hate and ignorance of the past eight years. Hello to confidence, truth, respect and enlightenment. It truly is a new day in America. Yes it is.

But as Barack said last night, this political victory is not the change we are seeking or that America needs, it is just the opportunity to bring about that change. Only through our continued engagement in the political process and support of Obama's progressive common-sense policies will America truly be able to revitalize itself economically, globally, and morally.

Still, after eight long dark years, we Americans again have a realistic opportunity to secure peace and prosperity in our time, and for future generations. That is a change we need. And that is a change we can celebrate now. Yes we can.

Thanks to everyone who helped bring about this desperately needed change. We did it.

Hugh coldwar vet ~ California November 5th, 2008 6:55 pm ET

Affirmative Action should continue ‘ad infinitum,’ until the day that the caucasian people of America need it themselves to get equal opportunity for employment.

James... That's equally as irrational and obnoxious.

The code word is FEAR. Go back and listen to the opinions of Obama amongst McCain supporters. Every time the word fear is said it is a racial expression. These are the same individuals who decide who gets the job, or places in schools etc. Affirmative action has helped to mitigate that "fear". Obama's victory is a start, but there is still some way to go.

I don't think race in an issue. I am a Democrat and I had a very hard desicison to make between Hillary and Barack. I decided that Barack had the power, hope, leadership and the ability to UNITE this Country. That's why I supported him. I just realized last night that this is a phenomenal moment in history! WOW!
Let's all work together!

Affirmative action has always been a ridiculous concept to me. This nation was built on being the best candidate, working hard, competition. It is obvious that as Baby Boomers, Xers and Yers grow up, we have learned to judge a person by his (or her) abilities, not the color of his or her skin. I wouldn't vote for McCain just because he was white, nor would I have voted for Obama if he was incompetent. Americans can choose who they want working for them, whether it be as President, broker, teacher, or crossing guard, based on ability. Affirmative action takes us a step back from that and makes it all about race, color, gender. It's unfair and keeps us in a holding pattern that needs to be broken from.

To think that this historical election somehow magically erases the definitive lines that divide minorities once and for all is somewhat naïve. As we have all heard, it is a big step, a car two hundred and thirty years in the making, that started running forty years ago, and is now approaching the final destination. Minorities are still minorities, nonetheless. And we must remember, it was not the traditional white American voter who helped this happen, this was a mass combination of demographic groups and numerous factors, but mostly the united minorities; no one can deny the overwhelming power that minorities, especially united, have. It's the epitome of the American Dream, and the greatest example to 'United we Stand'. I am an American living abroad in a small Latin American country, and along with other Americans from different and varied demographics we stood united, cast our absentee ballots, and helped participate in this historical election. By the way, Larry, I've been watching your show since I was ten, and despite I'm only twenty, I want to take this opportunity to congratulate you on your excellent journalistic skills. Thank You.

Hi Larry, I am writing from Toronto Canada. This is an amazing time for the United States and the World. Barak Obama is the first African American President . He also represents change in its highest form. Thank you America for doing the right thing.
I would have loved to have the opportunity to vote for Obama in this election. It was so exciting to hear his speech last night and to be part of the excitement. I look forward to January 20th, 2009.

Best Wishes from your neighbour to the north,

Debra

This moment in history is amazing. I really dont have words for it because I'm still in the moment. Looking forward to the changes we will see in this country.

Affirmative action does not end with the election of Barack Obama!Racism and discrimination still exists, not so much openly, but corporately. Applications are still secretly coded to identify race, gender, etc; salaries are not based on experience yet you are paid according to your gender and race. United States is changing progessively slow and surely. However, this momentous, historical event does not mean that racism disappears or does not exist.

I'm a 70 yr old white male. One of the greatest days of my life was when JFK was elected, this far exceded that. I've watched tv commentary all day and never cried sas much.

What a Wonderful Day to be an American!

There have been a handful of days in my life that I have been so proud of this country. Today was one of those days Larry.

The fact that President-elect Obama's mother and grandmother were white and that they pretty much raised him seems to get lost in the focus on the 1st African American being elected president. Why is someone African American if he/she is half black and half white. That seems to harken back to the 50's and 60's when if you had any African American blood, you were considered black. Why isn't someone who is half white, considered caucasian? As a white woman, I take equal pride in the fact that he will be our next president. A bi-racial president is the perfect transformational figure to lead our country, but lets give equal credit to his caucasian roots. His mother and grandmother did a fantastic job raising him!

President -Elect Obama is one of the most intelligent presidential aspirants to ever step forward in American history. The likes of his intellectual capabilities have not been surpassed in public life since the Founding Fathers put pen to paper. His personal character is also solid gold. Take heart, America: we have the leader for our times.

Larry, and guest(s) will you go to Cuba once Obama makes peace with Raoule Castro? Let me tell you, Cuba is a wonderful neighbor, and you would do well to invest, vacation in, and help those wonderful people 90 miles off of the coast of Florida!!! Canadians love them and they love us!

No, I do not think affirmitive action should end. Please understand, Obama did not win because racisim does not exist in America, just that the people that practise it are a minority. Affirmitive action protects people of color from the racisit in America that my be the minority, but they still call shots in their world, which is now our world! The fight has just begun!

I submitted my message of admiration for America's achievement a few minutes ago and it was not posted. What a dissapointment!

In case it was because of my Latin saying "VOX POPULI VOX DEI" – this means "The voice of the people (is) the voice of God".

I hope this will put the CNN's censors mind to ease.

Bravo America!!!

Cristian

There will always be a mandate for affirmative-action-type efforts as long as there continue to be groups lacking in opportunities and under-represented, in a society like ours aspiring to build a better world.
It is a time to rejoice for having elected our very first black president. I am proud of that for our country.
By the way, I am an immigrant who came to this country illegally during the years of civil war in my native El Salvador, I am now an engineer working for NASA. Every adult member of my family is a productive member of this society and we are all grateful for the opportunities we've found here. We are also ecstatic about what happened yesterday. Even my 90-year old grandmother prayed a rosary giving thanks to God for Obama's election.
Go America! We still have much, much more to accomplish, especially after the mis-steps of the past few years.

Horray, horray, horray!!! Finally, we have become what our constitution is about...WE, THE PEOPLE, FOR THE PEOPLE, AS ONE UNION!!!
My best friend is african-american. She called me today from LA and she was crying...She's 48 and she said to me "I finally feel like I'm part of something, that I'm part of this country." I'm white but I've never looked at anyone as any different from me. So, for me, this is also a great moment in history. YES WE CAN, YES WE DID, AND, YES, MR. PRESIDENT O'BAMA, WE WILL !!!!!!
We will stand beside you, we will fight together, and we will get this great country of THE UNITED STATES OF AMERICA back!!!
GOOD BUY BUSH's

Pennie Pleasant/Camp Verde/Arizona

I'm disapointed in the ignorance in American history by those who step in front of a camera to voice their opinions. First, this morning Matt Lauer (sic?) on the Today Show had to mention the Southern Confederacy when speaking of Virginia. Then tonight on Larry's show, Bill Mahar (sic?) had to also mention the Southern Confederacy when speaking of Virginia, along with adding a paraphrased comment made by Confederate President Jefferson Davis.

There are entire books written on the subjects of the Southern Confederacy, the United States, race relations and the institution of African slavery in the United States. All that I can say is "please stop using the Southern Confederacy as a scape goat for the institution of African slavery – an institution protected by the United States' Constitution up to the period of Reconstruction and the ratification of the 13th Amendment."

It's unfair and ignorant of American history – our history – to put the blame of 200 years of slavery in the United States on one single generation of Southern boys. Let us not forget that Lincoln said that he was not for the abolition of American slaves when he took office in 1861. Let us not forget that entire regiments of Union soldiers laid down their weapons and went home when they were made aware of the Emancipation Proclimation, due to their anger at fighting for slaves when that was not wha they were fighting for. Let us not forget that Indiana stayed in the Union only by the slimist of margins and ended up having the largest organization of Ku Klux Klan during the turn of the 20th century.

Obama's election to the office of the Presidentcy shows that this country has moved past 19th Century idiology. So please, can we not have public figures who are ignorant of American history speaking on camera about facts that they do not know any thing about?

It is not time for the affirmative action to end. Electing Barack Obama doesn't necessarily mean problems are solved right away. Affirmative action will actually help Americal to reach the goals and dreams Barack has mentioned throughout this campaign. What needs to be done to make sure it is exercised in a fair, appropriate and sensible way. Go affirmative action!

i was born in kingston jamaica i just became an american citizen in march 2008 and i am so happy i got to vote.................... my vote counted in florida to help elect President obama

Affirmative Action and all programs like it should absolutely END immediately. I would bet that Obama has never taken advantage of any of them in his rise to the most powerful office in the nation. If he did then I would certainly see him as a lesser man... I am a person that has been passed over because of such a program, and everyone around the situation disrespected the beneficiary – why would anyone not want to earn what is given to them. Obama is living proof that anything is possible for ANY American so long as you believe in yourself and stay focused on a goal. Affirmative action clings to a flawed past – this election is a promise to the future.

Having volunteered for President Obama's campaign in Forsyth County Georgia (of all places), I can personally attest to the efficiency, fire and enthusiasm in the ground operations. We were inspired, and feel so incredibly honored to have been a part of history.

I have been following the election for quite some time in Canada. I was so deeply moved by his speech last night and I knew, at that moment, the direction of the your country has, and will change for the better. It was a profound moment in my life just to witness this moment in American history.

The dream is still alive.

"One Nation under God, indivisible, With Liberty and Justice for all."

Thank you CNN for covering the politics of the presidency so well.

Steve

As I told my friends, people have the right to have their feelings and to maybe, be upset by the outcome. But, now is the time to put your game faces on, and step up and help this country move forward. We all need to come together. I voted for Obama, I believe in our country and I know if we work together we will be able to succeed. If someone wants to wallow in what could have been, then that is their right. But I say, suck it up, come to the party and be part of the great change that is taking place. It is a brand new day!

I am a white 19 year old first time voter in Atlanta, Ga and voted for Obama. I drove down to the resting place of Dr. King today and saw a great outpour of White’s, Blacks, Hispanics, Asians. I think many Americans, Democrats or Republicans are all witnessing people from all around the world embrace the United States as a land of hope. Obama has many challenges ahead of him, and we have the right leader in the white house for those challenges. Long Live The Dream!

Larry, I'm writing from Grenada (Caribbean). We, in the Grenada, as I've seen around the world are overjoyed. This transcends in my mind race and umbrellas everyone irrespective of race, sex, nationality! I need to state that this should now allow us as blacks, to no longer blame the system but know that we are held accountable for our actions. We should embrace this but in our celebrations embrace the leaders of old, both black and white who would have paved the way for such a quintessential moment in our rich history.

This monumental ocassion has proven that the Late John F. Kennedy was not just a great President but a prophet. In 1968, he said that 40 years from that time, America would have their first black President. This is 40 years Larry!

I am inspired, I am moved at the grace, class and respect that President -Elect Obama carried himself and as a young man with personal political aspirations, I have found my mentor.

As I close, let me remind everyone, especially blacks/african-american that this is not the end of the journey. This just brings to fruition what our forefathers fought for, but it doesn't close the book and merely the chapter. When someone of a different ethnic background can hold the seat of power in the U.S. and it is no longer viewed as a historic event but as a norm, then we would have come full-circle.

I'll leave you with this Larry. Rosa Parks sat, so that Martin Luther King Jr. could walk. Martin Luther King Jr. walked, so that the President-Elect Barack Obama could run. President-Elect Barack Obama ran so that our children can fly.

Yesterday, America demonstrated to the rest of the world, its greatness, by electing Obama to its highest office, and only in the United state of america can this happen .This historic event has confirmed to me that my children's future is very bright and there is no limitation because of the color of their skin or the language of their parents because I'm originally from Africa like Obama's father.

This is such a beautiful moment but yet it saddens me that so many
Americans are still so one-sided. We need to come together and be one nation under God. If we operate as one nation instead of so many little nations we will be fine. Lets come together and be a force to be reckoned with!

I mean Jesse Jackson, why was he crying yesterday? was it tears of joy. If so, he should know that its an answered prayer and therefore he should cheer up. If its because of what happened between them, he should forgive himself, for Obama has forgiven him already.

Yes we can, yes we will. God bless America

i'm glad Obama won and is now President elect. But it bothers me that we seem not to give enough respect to President Bush. No matter what he has done wrong, he is still the sitting President of The United States Of America and we must respect him. Atleast for the position he hols

I've heard people say they want to move to Canada or Mexico. These people are traitors and should move. We don't need anyone here that isn't a patriot to the United States of America, no matter who is in office.

It's a little premature to assume that because Barak Obama won racism has ended. His victorious ascent to the White House has certainly instilled hope in the hearts of many. However an improvement in race relations that this campaign has brought does not necessarily mean a sudden end to racism in
America.

Affirmative action should cease to exist in America in the coming years. Its creation was necessary to give African-Americans opportunities that were not allowed to them in the past. However, with the American population becoming increasingly diverse, its existence is no longer relevant. I know that racism will persist as long as there are differences between people, but this election shows people are capable of seeing beyond race. I believe Affirmative action should be fully phased out within the next 10 years.

Today is historic for all people, everywhere!! For the first time I can tell my son who is bi-racial and only 4yrs old, "Son you can be anything you want"!! Hope is finally here and the chance to witness "possibilities" as never before. I truly felt moved by last evenings events, I felt uplifted and unburdened. I wish President elect Obama the courage and grace to forge ahead in unchartered waters.

Sherry, Ottawa Canada

jf;lkdsj;klfajds;kl November 5th, 2008 9:26 pm ET

Obama should of lost

James... There's no reason for that remark

I am an 18 year old collage art student. Yesterday was my first time voting, and I take extreme pride in announcing that I voted for Barack Obama. I believe that affirmative action should be modified by to a family's income instead of one's race. As the nation progresses we must modify our nations policies.

My eyes are swollen by tears of joy today. My only concern is to keep this amazing man and his lovely family him safe from harm.

Congratulations USA! What a wonderful time in your history. I am a white Canadian women who has never judged any person by anything except their inner person. I think most people in Canada are the same and we are glad you have finally seen the light. You have energized the world and in one night turned back the clock to a time when you were respected and loved throughout the world. Hopefully President Elect Obama's campaign will prove to you that negative campaigning is not only bad for the candidates but for your country, and that his campaign of issues prevailed. My son went to a school in Indiana, and I am once again not embarrassed to admit it.

Michele

as a Canadian and advocate of equality glod bless america. Please spend your $$$ on heath care and your citisens. We are so proud of you Barak. History has been made.

I'm a 69 yr old white S. Carolinian who picketed with the Congress on Racial Equality (CORE) in 1961. Although I'm the eternal optimist, I never thought I'd see such a day. I am now so proud of our Country.

We need affirmation action for many students to get into colleges

Larry,
I woke up this morning in a new country. It is OUR country again.
Last night, I wondered if Dr. King was smiling down on us. Part of his dream has come true. FINALLY.
I am, again, proud to be an American. My vote finally counted. This is an incredible piece of history and we all played a part.
WOW!
I STILL CAN'T BELIEVE THAT THIS IS HAPPENING.
Jeff

So relieved that PresidentObama won.
To truly heal and unite this great nation is to permenantly erase the term"African-American"to distinguish a group of American citizens/Americans.It is beneath us today as history was just made to have this in our speech,and culture.
Why do we ever have to distinguish any culture by creating discriminating pseudo names when simply 'Americans' SAYS IT ALL?
We are far more intelligent than this.

Thank you.

Are you kidding? righting a wrong. how backwards are you? when are you going to live in the present and stop blaming the past. 6row up, work hard and stop blaming the other guy. I see the market resonded rather nicely to Obama. happen to have your retirement invested?

I am a Hispanic American student, who recently went through the college application experience, and I believe it is time for affirmative action to end. While I would have benefited greatly had I accepted a school in this country, affirmative action is simply a positive form of racism that implies inferiority.
It develops subconscious investment in the very condition that minorities are trying to overcome, when we really need to be investing in long term development of formerly oppressed people.
In the words of Shelby Steele, writer of 'Affirmative Action: The Price of Preference': "Suffering can be endured and overcome; it cannot be repaid."
It is time for minorities to take responsibility for their own development.

I don't think the younger generation realize just how historic this presidency will be. My generation (those of us in our thirties) didnt think this could possibly happen in our lifetime& the babyboomer generation probably didnt want this to happen at all because they grew up with distorted views of other races and cultures. The younger generation just saw Barak Obama as a man running for president. I have regained faith in our nation and I am very hopeful that this presidency will change our nation's views on so many levels. I'm proud of the younger generation, THEY GET IT!!!

Minorities should have equal rights!

Affirmative action may still be required, as demographic shows that some groups are/have been historically disadvantaged. Education should be given highest priority and but only a restricted percentage in jobs(federal & state). It does not mean that they are not accountable.
What this election shows us is that a person with controlled temper and command of language will win the heart of common public and to some extent the people at your workplace.

On the side, why do we have to use the term african-american, while we don't use terms like British-American, German-American, Polish-American or Chinese-American?

It is very difficult to believe, there are so many who still think that Palin would have been better. America would have gone 100 years behind.
We are so fortunate to have some one like President elect Obama who has such diverse cultural experience at a time when the whole world is acting in unison.
Thanks for giving us an opportunity to comment and keeping us informed.

geetha

This is the beginning of the end of racial prejudices against people of color; not the absolute end. His victory is like no other because from now on when blacks are discriminated upon, shortlisted for jobs to which they will not be called back when they show up for interview, are called the n-word, this will neither be so biting nor sting so hard because he's now the larger than life source of solace and the citadel of hope. Yes, this is the moment when we can truly believe that with time, racial discrimination will be achived in historical documents, and read by future generations like myths of distant years just like we read about era of slave trade. Now black children can go to school with a new resolve that anything is indeed possible. My heart is aglow and when I open my mouth to scream, no sound comes out.

I think Affirmative Action should continue. I believe that with the election of Barack Obama, it is just the beginning for the change that this country desperately needs, but we are not there completely. I have worked in human resources and have worked with supervisors who infer judgment just upon the applicant's name. I think there is still a huge amount of people who are bigots and racists and until we create that "perfect world" where there is peace, understanding, and tolerance for those different from us, affirmative action should remain.

In electing Barack Obama, America has risen above the fear, lies, hate and ignorance of the past eight years, and ushered in a new era of confidence, truth, respect and enlightenment. It truly is a new day in America. Yes it is.

Read my 2 prior comments on the air PLEEEAASSSE!

I think that President – Elect Obama has been able to reach out to individuals on a level that most politicians miss. He reached out to people and he put himself in their shoes. The clarity of the voice of the people is unmistakeable, that being said, there is still a long road ahead of both President – Elect Barack Obama and our country . How about we swear him in on Thanksgiving...or X-mas?
The sooner the better!!!

Carlos Garcia
Orlando, FL

I am so proud of our country with the election of President Obama. I cannot stop crying with emotional joy when reviewing his journey from the beginning to this point. It is truly an honor to have the WORLD celebrating his election which says a lot about our country and how we've arrived. Thank you President Obama for a wonderful and classy campain which should be a testament to all future candidates that you can win without the nastiness and distaste, but with facts and confidence and above all a great support team working together on a desired MISSION that proved in this election to not be IMPOSSIBLE..

This is amazing. Our ancestors gather. I feel their spirits and every time I think of Barack Obama I am brought to tears. This is an opportunity to further heal race relations, regain favor in the global community and work together to make America all she can be. “Love sees color and embraces difference.�
I found an anonymous essay that I have had for over 15 year. It’s from a teenager participating in a World Peace Essay Contest. I believe Senator Obama would listen to this teenage. It is as follows:
“ If I had an opportunity to speak to the world leaders, I think at first I would not speak at all. Instead I would take with me a newborn baby deep in sleep. I would walk before each of them so they could see the baby breathe a breath or two. Then I would say, “You have just looked into the face of peace. Leaders of today’s world, when you plan your budget for world hunger, please be sure this baby has enough to eat. When you make your bombs which blow up and maim, and kill, please rearrange them so none of them hurt this baby. When you discuss problems, please do it softly so you will not wake this baby. When you sell your wares, buy your weapons, think of this child’s perfect face and remember to keep it unscratched. When you imprison your enemies and cage them, remember this child’s easy motions. Then ask yourself why any mother’s child should be less free than this child.
Then when one of the leaders would ask me, as I am sure one of them would, “who is this child who deserves such consideration?� I’d turn to them and say, “This child is Irish, sir, a little child from Belfast. No, this child comes from Lebanon, his family was massacred. No, this is a Black child from a burned-out tenement in the Bronx. No, a Third World baby whose country I do not know. No sir, this is your baby and your baby’s baby and forever on. This child is the past and this child is the present. You will decide if this child is the future.�
We can substitute many countries and situations into the above essay. We deserve a government that works for the collective good. Barack knows our children deserve a sound future.
He has the best interest of this nation in mind. Not a select constituency.
People who work hard are suffering the loss of home, jobs, affordable education and healthcare. There is nothing wrong with tough diplomacy, but that can be coupled with understanding, honesty, truth and compassion. He is a man for the people elected by the will of the people. We can rebuild America with his leadership because he will continue to surround himself with competent people. He most importantly has called each and everyone of us to action to be a part of the change we want. YES WE CAN!

this is the best, most outstanding larry king live show i've seen since i came to this country 32 years ago.... my compliments !!!! a few days ago i posted a comment about obama: the one who can dance knows how to lead...... i finally like this country !!!

amy November 5th, 2008 9:33 pm ET

OBAMA bought himself the election, w/ the likes of his radical friends, the MEDIA, celebrities, ACORN. He didn’t win it. He will not unite us. Racial tensions are already surfacing. I guess anyone could win if you had the media, acorn, rock stars, celebrities, the TV propoganda behind you. Real americans didn’t have a chance. WE look forward to the discovery of illegal funding.

James... Wow kiddo... are you ever gonna be in for a long look and a wild goose chase.

It seems to me that we have become a people that decide by emotion rather than thought. I am please that the President Elect has won his race. For the record, I am an old white man. But Obama cannot make up the difference between our lack of considered thought and our sound-bite knee jerk reactions.

Like our President Elect, I have new hope. But, my apprehension remains. I have lived well over a half a century. During this time I have seen us build this country into the greatness it is, and I have seen us tear it down by our own hands.

The future is not up to this new President, it is up to us.

The enthusiasm for our Senator, President Elect Obama has spread from coast to coast and through out the world...we have made the right choice America!! I am so proud of him for taking on this challenge and for us in recognizing his vision and sincerity. I can't stop shedding tears of joy and relief. He will need all of our support and prayers. God Bless you, President Obama and God Bless America.

Hi Larry-

I was one of the fortunate Chicagoans to be at the Grant Park rally last night. It was amazing, inspiring and something I will never forget.

In the crowd, I was surrounded by Americans of all race. Emotionally, the playing field was totally level. It was a great feeling, especially in a city like Chicago that is still too segregated.

Obama's win is another huge step in the right direction for Civil Rights. If now is the time for Affirmative Action to end, the people will speak. Just like they did last night.

– Andy Holton

We have chosen a brillant man with a concience!!!!!!

Hi, Larry, this is a question of Micheal Moore, what does he think about how people who didn't give Obama support, will there be a chance if thoses voters can quickly accept his term of being a president for this country?

canada is so proud. We have been humbled

Congratulations to President-Elect Barack Obama, Vice President-Elect Joe Biden, their respective families and everyone (Democrat, Republican, and Independent) who helped show the world why this country is the best country in the world.

This is the beginning, not the end. The people have spoken and Barack Obama will be our 44th President of the United States of America. We must not rest on our laurels because there is too much work to be done and President-Elect Obama can not do it alone.

Though you may not see Obama on the TV today, believe me he is hard at work selecting his cabinet and initiating the transition over to the White House. Barack Obama has a vision. He also has a plan to achieve that vision. He is prepared. Now the question is, Are You?

Change. There is a tremendous amount of opportunity in this word. What happens if Washington changes and we, the people, don't? That's right. NOTHING!

We have a unique opportunity right now to keep the momentum of change going. Obama mentioned service to your community and your country and this so very important.

Who will go out and mentor the young and help provide the encouragement and hope that they can be whatever they want to be?

Who will help blend the Whites, Blacks, Native Americans, Hispanics, Asians, and Africans in to ONE AMERICA?

Who will teach others in the community the basics of starting, funding, and running their own small business?

Who is willing to start a dialogue with, and have the patience to ask for help from those fellow Americans that may feel a little put off or afraid because of last nights outcome?

In our fundraising efforts, we showed this country and the world how much more powerful we are collectively and with a common cause. Now is now a time to rest. We must continue this collective effort above and beyond this election and do our part to bring this country back to GREATNESS!!

Affirmative Action has to end. Ameicans should start looking into the person's qualification such as physical and intellectual abilities and NOT into racial, socio-economic, socio-political, and even gender background. I believe that affirmative action disregards one's accomplishments by admitting or accepting that person basically due to his/her social group. I firmly believe that majority of Obama supporters voted for him not only because he is an African-American, but most importantly he has very strong credentials to become the POTUS.

GOD BLESSED AMERICA yesterday, halaluya!!! We have the best of both worlds now, I look forward to the "NEW" world, there is more joy right now, more hope than I have ever seen in my 75 yrs. Honesty, briliance, integrity has won out, There is hope for all of us now. Roll up your sleeves America and get out and help this great President elect bring America back to where it belongs, to its greatness we deserve. The "Black veil" has been lfted, lets burn it!! We can put pride back in our nation. I am so Happy, its unreal how great I feel and that has been missing for years!!

I think President Bush did more to get Obama elected than any other one man in america.

Larry,

As far as Universities go, Affirmative Action should continue but be based not on skin color or gender, but on the economic situation of the individual. Children with affluent, educated parents have all the advantages, regardless of race.

In the workplace, a quota system breeds hate. If 2 candidates are equally qualified, choosing a minority simply for his or her skin color seems like the kind of unfair treatment we are trying to eliminate.

You've finally got it right U.S.A.. I am Canadian and haven't always been a proud neighbor. Today I am proud and humbled. It already feels like the world is a better place. Great job U.S.A.

Affirmative Action should not end. People need to always remember that color does not matter, and know that this nation needs to stick together. They need to stick together and help the nation grow economically, and show the rest of the world that America really is the land of justice, liberty, and freedom!

No, affirmative action should not be done away with because America has its first African American President.. in 2008. This is one more barrier that has been crossed, but that does not take away from all of the others that still have to be crossed. I was extremely disappointed when I came to work at my school today and was so excited to talk about the history that was made last night. The children were like shaken soda cans waiting for someone to pop the top. They wanted to talk about what they had just witnessed, but instead they were told by their classroom teachers not to talk about it. Yes, we have come a long way, but we still have a long way to go. Too many people are still stuck in the past and this is exactly why affirmative action does not need to be done away with.

It was a great night for the ones that want to connect those stars on our flag and want to see the the United States of America move forward, but as Ronald Reagan said: "Trust, but verify.

Art

i wonder are C.E.O.'s of mayjor company like cnn and others are going to consider being more diverst i work at a company with 120 people only 3 blacks please dont hide this question

YES, affirmative action should be abolished!!!! Obama is an example on how hard work and education can be achieved in the US. Heck he is the future president elect. NO excuse for anyone not to accomplish goals. Especially now Obama is to be president. More programs coming and better school systems for Americans, there is reason no to attend school and college other than laziness. Not because of lack of affirmative action.

I think in some cases Affirmative Action will still be needed. But I also see Obama's win as a motivator for kids and also Adults of all ages to feel more confident in achieving anything they set their minds to. Now young black kids can truly believe and have tconfidence in their dreams. Hopefully one day everyone will be judged by their own merits just as Barack was, but unfortunately that won't happen in all cases, so for that reasons Affirmative Action is still needed.

thanks to you Heather in Canada.

When we have Americans that refuse to vote for a person based on the color of their skin, when we have Americans plotting to kill the President elect because of the color of his skin, and when we have Americans making the sort of negative, racists, hate filled comments I witnessed on the blogs today – NO we are not ready to eliminate affirmative action, we still have a long way to go.

On a separate note, I have to say that I am so tired of the people who continuously bring up the fact that Obama comes from a white parent and a black parent. I am 3/4 Irish and 1/4 German, but whenever I am asked I say I am Irish and I have yet to be persecuted for it. If you have read any of the books the man has written you will understand the kind of multicultural home he was raised in. Yes, he was raised by white relatives, but they ensured that his African roots were infused in all that he did. Besides, the man is allowed to identify with whatever race he chooses, that is his right – let it go, please.

From the beginning of his campaign I supported Barack Obama because I saw in him something very special – an ability to unite the country and the world. We are in times where our collective consciousness desperately needs to be raised – and we need a leader such as him to help lead the way. I always believed he could win the Presidency and I wholeheartedly believe he has the ability to go down in history as one of the great Presidents. Remember you heard it here first!

Affirmative Action, and whether it should be discontinued, is much too complex a subject than to allow for the two answers of yes or no. The results of this election display that many Americans support equality to the fullest, yet you must look at the country as a whole. I believe that, as of last night, we have our lab rat in Nebraska Initiative 424 that did pass. We should monitor that situation before making a national decision.

I hope that the media won't continue racial devisiveness by branding Barack Obama only an "African-American" President. Please remember that his mother, like me, was a white woman, and he's MY President, too! I'm SO proud to be a part of this time, just as I was in the 60's when we shut down our university in solidarity with our brothers and sisters whose rights, like those of gay and lesbian people in California today, were being withheld. May we go forward in peace, put aside our differences, and pull together to get this country moving forward again!

There can be no doubt that we are in the mist of a watershed moment in the history of America; people of all ages, races and creeds have raised there voices to the heavens and proclaimed "Yes We Can". I belive that in the coming months the euphoria of a "Black President" will be replaced with "The President" and at that point those who oppose this historic moment will be able to move forward and embrace the moment in its truest context. In the immortal words of our great freind Bernie Mac "lets move on!" and get to the job at hand of directing America in the right direction.

Barack won, but that was just an election, the world still have a lot of soul searching to do. Each individual has to first accept there is a problem and work on fixing it. It is ok to give credits to the persons involve but what is more important is when you see things happening around you, in which you know is not fair and wrong. You speak out and let the world know you won't tolerate it and nor will you turn the other cheek. You will never change all people to believe the way you believe, but don't give them any room to conceal those ill feelings or act on them.

I'm a political science major at the University of Southern Miss in hattiesburg Mississippi. I 'm very proud of Obama for not being what every conservative person in the world wanted him to be, which is a angry black man. He showed that all of us is not the way that we are projected to be and for that alone i'm very proud. What I don't like is fox news. They tried harder than Senator Mccain to make him look like a terrorist and a wealth contributor. Obama, I mean President Obama won because the people elected him. Fox news need to blame the American People if they want to blaim any body. Both canidates made their case and the best man won, so fox news needs to get over it.

Affirmative Action–the term itself implies positive action and that should never be repealed. I believe what we saw last night, in this nation, is an extension of affirmative action and like a wave spreading across our land it bathes us all in equal rights and opportunities.

Today I went out and bought an American flag to hang off my porch–for eight years I have felt oppressed and disenfranchised by that flag. Today it once again represented freedom and hope. Hanging my country's flag IS an action of affirmation that this change in government is for all of us, change for the better, and that is truly what Affirmative Action is designed to create.

Affirmative action is needed as much now as ever. Not using any fuzzy math to get there, the fact is that Affirmative Action programs as well as racism itself, are practices rooted in the discrimination that has historically haunted our nation.

Like the ACLU lawyers in place at the voting precincts I visited yesterday – as well as during early voting here in Florida – Affirmative Action cannot serve to knock one American (or others in our society) down at the expense of another. Instead, it serves as a safeguard, helping to ensure that all have a fighting chance against favoritism – acknowledged or not.

Until we can learn to exercise enough discipline of our own accord, Affirmative action must serve as our 'cheat sheet'. We should not have needed the Civil/Voting Rights Act either, but here we are nearly 50 years later; only now seeing dividends paid on the investment we made once upon a time in our nation's collective future.

Only then, when we assimilate the significance of the golden rule, rather than memorize its supposed meaning, will we be able to move forward by leaving race/racism where they belong: in a museum or psycho ward.

It is sad to say, but in america it will always be about race. Race has been an issue since the endentured servants arrived in America looking for a better life, and ended up in slavery. America has spoken and the majority vote wins. I believe every person that voted won.

I was totally gung-ho for Hilary, and when it was clear that Obama would be the nominee, I thought, ok, so long as he is Democratic. It took me a while to get it. To get him! When I finally did, I realized that he will lift this country up with purpose, self respect, self determination, the drive to help each other, and the understanding that united we are strong, and he will help us learn or re-learn this by example. It is in this vein that I say I can see a day in President Elect Obama's time where this country will no longer need affirmative action. God Bless You Barack Obama. This country has needed you for a very long time, and I pray that you do not buckle under the pressure of all that is needed and expected of you.

No, it shouldn't end.
As the past 14 years have shown, the 2 or 3% doesn't care about the 97 or 98%. Affirmative action includes not only minorities as well as women but the handicap and the less fortunate. Today, it might include part of the middle class. Affirmative action is not just about color. And the very best of luck for the new President, Barak Obama, he is going to need it.

I am 2 years younger than the president elect. I am of mixed ethnic background, but consider myself more Black than other. I have voted Conservative Republican for over 10 years.I supported GW Bush and still admire him to this day. I listened to Rush, read the WSJ, and followed the news for years. I have watched the RNC be taken over by some of the same type of harsh ,cold, and arrogant types of men who think they know better (like some Democrats)how we(Minorities) should live and vote and yet screwed things up just as bad as the Democrats. It s the economy and the people stupid. I would have voted for Senator Obama if he were a Asian or Latino or Native American because his message resonated to my needs as an American. It is just a major plus that he is a Black man. I am so proud of America. PS If the John McCain who spoke last night, spoke up months with plan and real ideas (much like GW Bush did) he might have gotten my vote. WAKE UP RNC- NEGATIVE PERSONAL ATTACKS WILL NEVER EVER GET MY VOTES AGAIN. By the way most of my family and many African Americans are switching to the Independance party later this year. They will all have to earn our votes in the future. Thanks

If Barack Obama can pull off one quarter of what he proposes....he will accomplish more than George W. accomplished during his term's.As your geusts are saying Larry, the United States of America has taken a major turn in the eyes of the world.

Good night Mr. King,

I am a 21 year old male from the bahamas and as I watched the election last night and saw that America has become so open minded and non judgemental that the country has elected a african american president it made me feel hope that life it worth living and my children will have a fair chance in this world today WITHOUT BAIS. Congradulations to the President elect Barack Obama, we look forward to your leadership.

amy November 5th, 2008 9:33 pm ET

OBAMA bought himself the election, w/ the likes of his radical friends, the MEDIA, celebrities, ACORN. He didn’t win it. He will not unite us. Racial tensions are already surfacing. I guess anyone could win if you had the media, acorn, rock stars, celebrities, the TV propoganda behind you. Real americans didn’t have a chance. WE look forward to the discovery of illegal funding.
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Your a Fear monger Amy,let go of your hate.Nobody is begging you to stay in America,you are free to leave.

As far as I understand it, Affirmative Action has helped more white women than any other demographic. So no, it shouldn't end. Women are still not earning equal pay for work of equal value. Affirmative Action may be their only way for the time being. If this program is not fulfilling it's mandate, can it not be changed. We can't continue to be an all-or-nothing, band-aid solution, short-sighted, quick fix that ends up costing us more kind of country. Look where it's gotten us.

Affirmative action is still needed in less diverse areas. I never thought of Barrack Obama as a black, as white person, or even a biracial person until the press made it an issue. I felt disgraced as Sara Palin made alligations of calling him a "terrorist". I felt we took a step back as a nation with the racial mud slinging that took place. I admit when McCain ran against Bush for the nomination I would have voted for McCaini at that time. However, I think in this election Senator McCain underestimated our intelligence.

I remember seeing President Obama two years ago in a room of not more than thirty people in Effingham, IL. It was even then before he thought about running we the people of Illinois knew he was going to be something great.

Because of affirmative action the election of the world's first black major leader has happened. I think this truly affirms what happens over time when a people are given a fair chance to advance. Like all plans of action over time they tend to be abused and misused yet the good still prevails and something wonderful always happens. Today I saw young black kids from an Atlanta School singing and saying yes I can become president and truly mean it. And yes maybe this young man does have the ability and talent to lead a nation of all people one day and not rejected because of the color of his skin. For 50 plus years I have been an American but last night I felt the mental bonds of slavery lifted and a man being judged by his ability and not his race. This is truly a new day in the liberation of America by Americans of all races, creeds and faiths .

I am so happy for Barack Obama and Joe Biden. This is truely a joyous occasion just as much as it is historic. I was saddened by the fact that I saw individuals really upset because he is African American. It also shocked me when a caucasian female came up to me and said congratulations. This is "our" country (all races), and we must embrace our new president and his administration, love one another, and have faith that we will be better as a country and as a people. I have served this country for seven years in the U.S. Army under President Bush, and will serve under Barack Obama because I know it's bigger than me, it's about our country!!!!!! Love you all!

As a Canadian, 54 year old Black woman, I am so glad to see a President who is well educated, very intelligent, even tempered, Christ like qualitites and Black. I never thought this day would come in my lifetime. President Elect Obama, continue to hold your head high. This is God's time for God's man of our time.

Misguided Republicans can still not accept the fact that a black man is intelligent and can actually have the ability to outsmart their posterboys Bush and Cheney

Why did he have to spend more than twice more than republicans to beat Bush's party? If he was so popular then why did he have to spend so much?

Racism has not ended, the gap has been bridged we are taking one giant leap forward! To those who walked into a very somber workplace as I did keep your smile pasted on not only can we but YES WE DID!

I think affirmative action is necessary to some degree because it seems employers large and small, corporate and government, cannot be left to their own devices to "do the right thing" without being regulated. Just like so many other areas that require government intervention. At the same time, I think AA decreases the confidence and trust that someone is qualified and is actually the best person for the job. My husband is a minority and has worked his way up where he works. He has earned a very good reputation for job performance. I do think as our workplace gets more diverse, AA becomes less of an issues, because people of all races prove themselves everyday by doing a good job. There are deadbeats of every shade. No one should be placed in a job based solely on their race.

I personally applaud the accomplishments of President elect Obama, and the American people. I know we’ve made great accomplishments in race relations.

However, one election does not eliminate the need for affirmative action. During the reconstruction period at the turn of the 20th century many African Americans were elected to high office.

Affirmative action needs to address the intuitional and systemic practices that are intentionally designed to disenfranchise targeted grouped of Americans.

Affirmative Action should not be ended with the election of President Elect Barak Obama. African-American citizens are not the only people who benefit from Affirmative Action therefore we cannot rule out protection rights for other minority groups.

With how red the South is from TX to GA, Affirmative action should not go away. Although, Obama won last night, the south spoke volumes with their vote. They showed we as a Nation still have a long way to go. It would be a mistake to think that racism is behind us simply because we have a 1/2 black President.

OBAMA's mannerism emulates one of a dictator. The way he turns his head and holds a poise to ellicit a reaction. He purposely denounciates his words as to hold your attenion, trying to command your attenion so he can rake you in to his propaganda. Larry, Jackson is soooooooo boring. What is he saying? He's talking in riddles or what?

I was refreshingly thrilled w/Obama's acceptance speech. He was so confident and strong. Despite the amazing accomplishment of winning the election, he didn't park at that spot and savor the accolades. It was as if it was an accomplishment in his past. I could sense he was already miles down the road ahead, planning for the future and how he will lead this country. Quite remarkable!!!! YES WE CAN!

Yesterday was a great day in the history of our nation with the election of Barack Obama as our next President. However, his election does not erase decades of discrimination in education and business against women and people of color. According to my latest research, white men still hold 95%+ of high level corporate jobs with affirmative action practices in place. So, this is no time to forego affirmative action. Hopefully, with President Obama's administration we will begin to see affirmative action work better.

I believe unequivocally that affirmative action continues to have a legitimate role in our society. The crippling combination of poverty and barriers to quality education means that affirmative action policies are tools that promote equity and progress in our poorer communities. As a white woman who grew up in good middleclass public schools, I am continually astonished at friends and family who believe this is the norm for America. Until poverty is eradicated - concentrated disproportionately in our minority communities - affirmative action must continue in order to provide opportunity and hope to individuals with the ambition and potential, but not the means or perfect educational background.

Do you think some of the new Tax Laws that would be put in place would affect Caribbean Countries that depend on Tourism to survive. And American Investors who want to invest in places like The Bahamas would they be able to freely invest in other Countries?
We support President-Elect Barack Obama, it was an extended state with flag, shirts, hats, bumper sticks, etc but we depend on tourism alot. how would new tax laws affect us?

Just thought you should know that Canadians are ecstatic at Obama's win. Bush did everything he could to show his disdain for us, your neighbor and biggest trading partner. To give you an idea, the crowd gave a standing ovation when Obama's win was announced last night at the NHL game in Vancouver, and there were many celebration parties. The only thing we would like to see is a shorter campaign time. We in Canada had an election announced, campaigned and decided all within 6 weeks this fall. But Congratulations to all of you at CNN for an excellent job of covering all angles of what must have been a long journey for you as well.

"Gentleman" – that is the word no one has yet used to describe President-elect Barack Obama during this long, arduous campaign. He conducted himself as a true gentleman throughout, without fail, and he will continue to be a calm and thoughtful gentleman for the next eight years – that, simply, is what this man is.

I am 47 years old and came to this country 27 years ago and I had dreamt that someday we will break through this barrier of skin color. I am a father of 2 beautiful inter-racial children. For goodness, I love my 2 daugthers. Age 5 and 7 because last night my youngest daughter said to me "daddy, I am sure that your guy Obama will wins and he could pave way for me and my sister and all Americans who's denied of real love for one another ".

I am a 78 yr. old white grandmother and great grandmother to white and black grandchildren; who at the age of 15 was taken off a bus by Dallas police because I refused to give up the only seat left on the bus, because it was in the black section. (I think this was before Rosa Parks). Today I cry because I have lived to finally see my beloved country show its greatness. So its not just our black friends who are overcome with joy...white old grandmothers are even moreso....Larry my only problem is...how to stop crying these tears of joy, fulfilled hope and happiness!!! Rose T.

We have suffered through 8 years of the Cheney administration. It has sucked the middle-class dry financially. We have lost face to the world. We are still still in 2 wars with third world countries even though we have the greatest army in the world. The wealthy have all the tax breaks, wall street got all the aid. And still, still some of you can not see that you have been taken? Look around you, you are far worse off now than you were 8 years ago.

The right man won. America knows it, the world knows it. We will agin be what we should have been. If you are still too blind to see through your fear I pity you, but stay the hell out of our way.

Hi Larry,

Congratulations to the President-elect. Now that the first, and most difficult step, has been taken. I have great hope that we can take another great step to eliminate under the cover racism. Hyphenated american description. If you want to think of a person as a complete and total American we must get rid of African, Mexican, Chinese,
Asian or any other second hand slur-American. I didn't think this would ever happen, but now-- Who knows

Hope has come back. I am a white 45 year old divorced single parent, and I had never voted in any election in my life until yesterday. I have become an avid fan of CNN. Anderson Coopers outstanding coverage of the devestation of my state during Katrina brought CNN into my living room and the channel is rarely changed. This is how I became very interested in this election. Purely out of curiosity at first. I was not interested enough in the primaries to vote. When Obama won the nomination something changed in me. I rushed and registered to vote and counted the days with excitement to become a part of history and change. I have never felt so much pride in being an American. I feel in my heart and soul that this man who has changed me WILL change this country and in doing so change the world. I feel that we are witnessing, and living history because he will without a doubt become the most famous, popular and loved President ever. The nation has changed in less than 24 hours! It is awesome!

WAS IT IN THE CARDS FOR THIS DAY FOR OBAMA ? COULD HE BEAT ANYBODY OTHER THAN McCAIN. IT'S BEEN FORTY-FIVE YEARS SINCE THE MARCH ON WASHINGTON IT'S BEEN FORTY YEARS SINCE DR. KING WAS KILLED.HE WILL TAKE OVER AS PRESIDENT THE DAY AFTER DR. KING HOLIDAY IS IT THE GOD PLAIN IT?

If the Republicans took anything from this election, I hope that they get now that the minorities and the youth of America aren't to be ignored and won't be divided. The real part of America is diverse. I noted that the former slave states pretty much went all went red, but still somehow I am encouraged by what I saw in VA and NC. I poured over the Gettysburg Address and I teared up, I finally get to see this "New Birth" that Lincoln was hoping for and it wasn't all in vain. The divisive, fear-mongering campaigning they did regarding the robo-calls (Holocaust, Fidel Castro, and the whole "Muslim=terrorist thing") is not what America stands for. We are one nation, indivisible ...

As an African American I am proud. As an American, I am beyond humbled at the whole democratic process and the progress that my peers have made.

I do not think Affirmative action practices should be done away. I am a black female going to graduate school for a PhD in Biochemistry, but while I was an undergraduate I met other black students who were sure that affirmative action got them to the place they were. It is not because they were not smart, but more so that they were coming from communities and educational systems that were not properly funded and focused on high achievement. In addition, affirmative action guarantees that minorities will be considered just as much as as a Caucasian and I think corporate America and many Americans have not yet shifted from past prejudices.

I am hopefully! America doesn't get to see this often, but they are many black/African Americans that are making head ways in so may arenas, and are getting hired because they are qualified not because of any other reason.

With Obama being elected president I believe a new image is being spun of Black Americans and changing the dynamics of race relations. I believe that in years to come there will be no need for affirmative action.

Just asking....why do they classify Obama as the first black President? After all, he is half black and half white. Do you really believe that Hispanic people and/or white people would have voted for a man who is 100% black? Besides don't you think that you are degrading his mother and his grandparents who raised him. The media and everyone else is giving his black father who had nothing to do with him so much honor. It is his white ancestors who raised him and who made him the man he is today. Come on speak the truth, he should be classified as "other" as other bi-racial children in school are classified

I am proud to be an american. I hope that the time is now for change and we will have that with President- elect Obama. We are one country, one people and this is one election that I can say I am could not have been more pleased with the outcome. I am now an older person with hopefully more years to go by the grace of God and my health, but I feel that Mr. Obama will bring the change to this country that will set the path for our next generation. I have two young granddaughters. I want them to be able to work and play and when the time comes to raise their families in this great country without the worry of joblessness or homelessness or hunger and poverty.
I think we would be going backwards, would we not, to stop the processes by which all americans have opportunities. It's time to admit that we are women, we are men and we are all equal. Larry, I am proud to have cast my vote for the next President of the United States. God Bless America!

Deb B. Utica NY

I believe that affirmative action continues to divide our country. Those people who are not a minority are tired of "special considerations" for those who are....how long do we have "pay" for the sins of those many years before our generation? ALL people need to become responsible for their behavior and suffer the consequences if they make wrong choices.....Let's get on with the business of getting our country back on track...

I never thought I would ever see a man elected with no regard to color. I'm thrilled. However, I don't think the country has changed SO much (see the block of red states) that just because we have elected an African American President of the United States that we can expect it is a given that color, sex, sexual orientation, religion will be disregarded in job interviews, college interviews etc.. This election is a GIANT step forward for our country. For the past 6 years I have felt shame for a country I love. It feels good to once again be proud of a country I so love.

Hi Larry,

First of all I will like to congradulate President Barack Obama. It is high time for all Americans to wake up, forget about the past, and come together to help Obama achieve his goals. I wish him all the best. What has happen has happen there is no turning back.

The south is sooo divided. Just look at the red bleeding all over us. What can the new President do to try and bring us together here. The deep south has not been won over. WE NEED HELP DOWN HERE!!!!!

To God be the Glory,
Barack Obama is the 44th President of the United !!! States of America. ( This is the change we need) It really touched my heart to see the reaction of the world, people of all races coming together to celebrate his victory. i would like to say to President -Elect Obama
Thank you for running. This is big, I believe anything can happen. All things are possible. I am elated, excited, and my heart is full, there are not enough words to express.

I am so proud to be an American. You and your family have touched my heart and the hearts of my children. My 18yr old daughter is so proud that she was apart of making history her first time voting and so was I. We will never forget Nov 4 2008. Barack Obama..... Our PresidentI believe you were sent from heaven, the best of all of us.
I am a 36 years old black female and thought I would never see this in my life time but hoped that my kids would. I feel that we have actually seen Dr. Martin Luther King Jr's Dream. I have never been so happy to wait in line and my husband was so patient when he waited 4 1/2 hrs to vote along side people of all races who were also supporting our candidate. ( I must say that the Obama Camp in my area worked well up until the polls closed, they were still knocking on doors. then making calls to the pan handle.)
I am so glad to see this in my lifetime maybe we will really become united people who are not judged by the color of their skin but by the content of their character.

" Rosa Parks sat , So Martin could walk, Martin walked so Obama could run and Obama ran so our kids can fly!"

You and your family are in my Prayers
God BlessYou and God Bless America

Orlando,Fl

I just want to comment as a Canadian that has been following the Election in the US.
I believe that Mr. Barak Obama, president elect of the United States is going to do a lot for the US. He is the Man that will help turn the US from the country, that a lot of people believe has had its image tarnished by the past and present.
Alot of people think of the US government as bullies, as ignorant, and having little regard for cultures other than their own.
I think that Mr. Obama will change that view. I hope that his word "Change" will hold the hope and belief of the people there and around the world. And He will help change the US, That once again make people believe that America is a great nation. One that I am again proud to have as a neighbor.

I don't I have never been more upset, and excited at the same time, as I was last night when I watched Obama's count go over the top. I supported John McCain, because I believed that he was the right man for the job. However, my heart is filled with pride today, to see this history made. But I don't believe we've made it yet. Today watching the news, I don't think I have ever heard the words African American more in my life. I believe people are less bothered by race than they are given credit for. Lets stop talking about. It's not an issue. The more we talk about it, the more we make it an issue. Affirmative action makes it an issue.

Hi Larry, I was up all night long to see the results of the election. I am a Canadian citizen and I cried, I was proud for the United States and even if it is not my election, I am extremely proud to be a part of this world, a world where hope and all people are finally equal. I feel that this was not only a win for the US but a win for all humanity. What a proud day this is. Common sense prevailed and the BETTER MAN WON! He will be the one to reunite the world!

If affirmative action were to end, would that not be racist?

As an African-American I never thought our country would ever be ready for this. What made me cry with joy was this morning when my 6 year old grandson said to my daughter that the President looks like him. Can you amagine a little boy would must have felt like an outsider in his own land finally feel that he does belong.
My 11 year old granddaughter said that she is going to call the Presidents daughter "America's Little Princesses.

Why is nobody talking about the youth vote last night? Does it not say something that they contributed 20% of the total vote nation wide and pretty much guaranteed this landslide victory? I think the question should be posed to them.

To dC – in response to your rants – get a grip! Just because the money laundering, brain washing, generational inheriting, far right conservatism has warped your little brain doesn't mean those of us who recognize opportunity and a leader to initiate that momentum make us stupid, but rather shows you and those like you a close minded fool who's lacking in some common sense. Isn't it time now to stop the bickering, shut your mouth and pay attention to what's happening and has happened over the last 5-8 years! OPEN YOUR EYES!

Two notes:

1) The subtext of this question of Affirmative Action is whether racism can be declared defeated. The answer is no. President Obama's victory is a landmark for our nation, but so was Rev. MLK Jr's speech. So was LBJ's Civil Rights Act. These are milestones, not finish lines. Consider: Obama demonstrated a superior intellect, superior judgment, superior behavior and composure and strategy and execution and management – surrounded by circumstances that were so clearly favorable to the Democratic party in so many ways – and yet there was still a question of whether or not he could actually win. That we needed the black man to be so much better a candidate than the white man in order for us to finally close our eyes and open our minds and vote for him still says a lot about our nation and the question of race. Make no mistake: this was progress, but the job is not done. "This victory alone is not the change we seek – it is only the chance for us to make that change."

2) In that same vein, I know we are still buzzing about this victory that, for so many of us, IS transformative and IS transcendent. For many of us "young people," this is the first time we – a generation that grew up in the global community engendered by the internet while under the shadow of the Bush Administration's foreign policy – have been asked by our international neighbors, "aren't you proud to be American?" Imagine! For you "old people," you have experienced so many episodes of the nation's great history firsthand. But for us this is new.

But in order for this to mean anything, we – the young people – need to remain engaged. We can NOT be allowed to feel that the fight is over, that our work for this country is completed, that our responsibilities are met, and that we can go back to video games and disinterest and complacency.

So, by all means, let us celebrate this moment, and let us revel in an election that, for so many of us, was about reviving the greatness of this country and her ideals in our hearts. But we can not forget that this is the BEGINNING of our work, that we are not celebrating a final victory; we are, in fact, celebrating the reclamation of the opportunity – and the responsibility – that we the people have to further the greatness of our country.

As a twenty-year-old Black college junior, I have never been so happy to be wrong. I wanted to enter public service, and as a child, I was told that I had no place in it because no one would vote for me, due to the color of my skin.

I did not expect Senator Obama to win. President-Elect Obama has won.

This event confirms to the world yet again that our nation can give a strong right hook to the face of its historical demons.

This event also confirms once and for all that we have done just that – we have struck a decisive blow against the greatest of those demons, the demon of unfounded, illogical, ignorant prejudice.

This event has gone beyond bringing us hope; it has become hope itself, for all who seek a free, peaceful, and truly worthwhile world.

This country has changed; there is now much less reason to be pessimistic. Let us forge a new optimism, and take up the hope granted us. Let us all, as Americans, be free and enjoy a happier life together.

I absolutely think that affirmative actions should end. Employers should not be required to hire a certain number of employees based on race and schools should not be required to "reserve spots" for a required number of "minorities"!
Everything should be based strictly on qualifications and how an individual will do a job – or perform in a position.
I am a white republican and I have been placed into a stereotype as racist because I voted for McCain because I truly fear that Obama is not qualified and do not trust his plans.
Although I have no respect for President-Elect Obama as an individual, I will always respect the position of President of the USA and I hope that he will stand in and fill that position in a way that would show America is proud and thankful for all that everyone has done for us to be the great country we are.

I do not think that this post-election coverage should be all about race. I think that all the media coverage of the racial aspects tells me that black people voted for Mr. Obama because of his color and if white people were to (heaven forbid they would) vote for the white man because he is white, they would be considered racists, but yet black voters are not thought of that way.

Affirmative Action should remain, because although over 60 million of us (American's) voted for "Change", over 50 million voted for "More of the Same". Which means that things have not changed completely. Besides we live in a city where "whites" constantly respond to newspaper stories regarding murders, robberies, and etc, with suggestions of black people are all criminals and should all be destroyed.

I also just took a few minutes to read the ignorant racist blogs that were posted previous to mine....I am greatly saddened that there is still such racial divide in our country. My son is bi-racial and it was a proud day in our home to see Obama open the doors of opportunity for people of all races. I actually cried tears of joy when it was announced that he is the president elect (and so did my 65-year-old Caucasian father). There are so many other important issues to focus on, why waste your time being so full of hate?

A question that many of us Americans should be asking: Where do we go from here, post election, that is?

C'mon, folks, let's put aside our petty biases and prejudices and get prepared to roll up our collect sleeves to tackle the scores of important issues affecting our country. I know that's an easier-said-than-done thought, but what else are we gonna do, sulk?

I believe in karma. And I just get a real kick outtah the fact that the founding forefathers-in their racist way-wrote and established a constitution for the people, the white people; heck, the white male, to be exact! ;-D

Finally, after all of the foul remarks, false statements and straight out lies about President-elect Barack Obama, now our people can, for however long it may take, pay slightly-higher taxes to pay off our national debt. Yep, I said the T-word!

How else do you pay off your own credit card debt, just ignoring it? So, again, my fellow forward-thinking North Americans-even y'all so-called patriotic, bigoted rednecks-let's stop behaving like idiots and get on the stick. ;\D

amy November 5th, 2008 9:43 pm ET

OBAMA’s mannerism emulates one of a dictator.

James... Thank you for that obvious non existant observation Amy. How is Goerge Bush and when will you be changing his diapers next?

The way he turns his head and holds a pose to ellicit a reaction.

James... You mean the way he pauses and waits for what he's jsut said to sink in?

He purposely denounciates his words as to hold your attenion, trying to command your attenion so he can rake you in to his propaganda.

James... Spoken like a true SS member Amy. So tell us... just how early of an age WERE you initiated into the Hitlerjungan? And what black person's house did you have to toilet paper to get in?

In my state individuals who supported Senator McCain appear very angry and bitter one day after the election. I pray these people will open their hearts and minds to the will of the majority. Yes, the affirmative action programs need to be continued, there is still work to be done.

Did Obama take his slogan "Yes, we can" from Bob the Builder? Is this a triumph for Obama or a defeat for Bush?

Typical bashing from DEMs, fear mongering, what is that.? Buddy you need to can handle the truth. OBAMA is not my president. He will be scrutinized just like Bush was the last 8yrs. There is a LOT of skeletons in his closet, also Micheles closets, we look forward to.

This is the most historic day in my 37 years of life!

We should have affirmative talent search.. If we would look to place the best person into the best position regardless of race or sex maybe we can begin to advance as a country. I don't know what we can do about ignorance and racism. Like the comic Ron White says, "You can't fix STUPID."

I was born and raised in San Francisco and 6yrs ago I moved to
Las Cruces, New Mexico
I voted for Barack Obama last Thursday,and was sooo proud to have the opportunity..... I am a 69 yr old woman who voted for the first
time for JFK...that was the only time I was so jazzed to vote and proud to vote, Until last night.... Being a part of the community to get Barack elected President..... Affirmative Action is necessary for many in our
US who need help to achieve the dreams

As a minority, I know that I can benefit from affirmative action. However I believe that affirmative action only furthers divisions between race and causes a tangible distinction between them in the workplace.

When viewing Affirmative Action from the perspective of a non minority student, all I can see is the pain and scorn of reverse racisim. I do believe that all people deserve an equal chance, but to regulate opportunity using laws only hurts someone else. The change an African American president has brought to us will hopefully change the people from within, so the only Affirmative Action that exists is to "judge people on the content of their character, and not the colour of their skin."

Can CNN and the other networks stop concentrating on Obama's race??!! I understand that it is a historic victory for Americans, particularly Afircan-Americans, but I think that by making all issues race-related, you are missing the point that Obama is a great leader for ALL Amercians.

The real question should be – Is racism still prevalent in America Today?
The fact is that a vast majority of American minorities are getting a fairer shake at the opportunity tree, but there still are underlying prejudices in this great country. Mr. Obama will be our 44th president is a great sign of our progress, but let it not be lost that he is an extraordinary man and he won regardless of race, sec or sexual orientation. Any man or woman of his caliber would be hired in a second. Level the playing field with equal candidates vying for a job in the open marketplace, and those tired generalizations prove more resilient.

Larry,

Is it just me or was the country a friendlier place today?
I am a bi-racial American and I encountered many people from many different races and backgrounds whom were helpful, engaging and considerate. Is it my attitude about our nation or has President Obama's victory already started to soothe some of the pain, prejudice and separation that has existed in our country for so long. I bet that the crime rate has dropped; it would make sense when you consider some of the statistics of crime in our country.

No affirmative action should end due to the fact it has and will continue to help not just African-American, but all minorities and women who work hard and want to take advantage of the opportunities it affords them. And there are several people in the country in positions of influence who have not yet put aside their prejudices.

While Barack Obama is one example of success; his story does not speak the individual experiences of the many people of color, women, and disabled throughout the United States. Affirmative Action will help to create more stories like his.

Check the popular vote. You are not the 'Real America'. Grow up and get a job. Oh yeah, you can't because your Republican President bankrupted this country!

I'm a Canadian and we don't have "affirmative action." As a 43 year old black woman, and founder/president of a public relations agency, I believe in merit. Success is created by hard work and perseverance. It means pushing forward even if the hill is steep. If you train long enough and hard enough eventually you will reach the top of the mountain.
There are obstacles for many of us regardless of race, religion or gender.
It is also true,however, that minorities have a harder climb and given the race history that America was built on, blacks don't appear to be advancing at the same pace of other minorities in the U.S.A. That said, I believe that affirmative action only helps to diminish the credibility that a visible minority might bring to a career position because he/her was appointed through a mandated hiring program.

There is still a need for affirmative action. Yes, America has elected an African American president, but racism is still a major issue in this country. The red states that President-Elect Obama did not win last night is evidence of that. I am an African American male originally from South-Western Virginia. Racism is still an issue there and in other southern states and cities (ex. New Orleans). I moved to New Orleans after Katrina to assist with hurricane relief efforts and saw it first-hand. Thankfully Americans my age (28) and younger seem to realize the errors of "old America" and are helping to establish a new and better nation.

A BETTER PLACE WITH BHO

Dear Mrs. O,

Congratulations, your son is on his way to Chocolate City. McCain and he had a tough battle but BHO has won his seat in the Oval office.

I want to thank you for bringing this man into the world. With him around I am sure my life will get a lot easier and I've even been able to find forgiveness in some of our old politicians skeleton closets. Why you ask- well, first off with your son paving the streets with gold, and lollipops and chocolates and taking charge of fixing all the woes of our poor folks in the U.S. I don't have to spend so much time trying to figure out where my charitable contributions go, BHO will do that for me so I can stop giving away my 14% of income a year and use some of it to pay the 4% of added taxes and the the rest I can start spending on my myself finally. The poor and I will win that way, Thank you Mrs. O.

With the election numbers so high I apologize to our past elected officials who I thought were disenfranchising our minority voters in this country, now it turns out that they weren't disenfranchised in the past at all, it was just that the minority folks didn't want to register or vote for a caucasian, and turns out it was probably some lawyer group who was spreading all those vicious lies to make us hate our politicians.

And his spread the wealth around campaign promise, well that is pure genius. I figured out that he is using code words to alert us republican voters to go out there and find the deductions and be more thorough about it so he doesn't really cause any impact to us, but his press lackies can make it look like it is hurting us. He can look like he's meeting his promise and we keep the same amount of monies as last year and we all win. He is sure a clever person. I'll probably just go out and buy a house from a foreclosed person who never could afford it anyway at a reduced price and deduct the higher interest rates (that are 100% deductible) and get greatly reduced property taxes and voila- no tax hike for me. There will probably be a tax credit from him to people like me for being such good guys in buying up all the empty housing his Democratic party, ACORN,CRA,and the banks caused. He's already adding value- finance counseling from the Oval, who would have thought.

And he admits he's weak in foreign policy, so when he needs to understand the mind of a terror monging piece of slime he's got Reverend Wright, Ayres, and those guys to jump in and give him the on-the-job training so he can overcome whatever is going to hit us. It turns out knowing all these American terrorists is a good thing for him and us. I guess???

He didn't get my vote, but as America's president he's got my support!

THANK YOU MRS. O

Ginny, Just saw your post and while I am a big fan of Obama, It is a well known fact that Obama did in fact need affirmative action to get ahead. He was a mediocre student at best in High School and it was only through affirmative action that he got into Columbia. Furthermore he did not excel at Columbia. It was only once he ended up at Harvard, again by affirmative action, that he got everything together and really became something special.

Yes.

Only when the media and people at large stop making a big deal about being black, white, latino, asian or purple, will the US grow up and enter the world of nations where race isn't commented on or an issue.

This election is not the end all to the issues of race in America.
Afirmative Active is likened to a "social verb" in our society, in other words, until people learn as a nation to hire-select-elect people of diverse background based on qualification only, it should remain.

I am 2 years younger than the president elect. I am of mixed ethnic background, but consider myself more Black than other. I have voted Conservative Republican for over 10 years.I supported GW Bush and still admire him to this day. I have watched the RNC be taken over by some of the same type of harsh ,cold, and arrogant types of men who think they know better (like some Democrats)how we(Minorities) should live and vote and yet screwed things up just as bad as the Democrats. It s the economy and the people stupid.

I would have voted for Senator Obama if he were a Asian or Latino or Native American because his message resonated to my needs as an American. It is just a major plus that he is a Black man. I am so proud of America.BTW-- If the John McCain who spoke last night, spoke up months ago- with a real plan and real ideas (much like GW Bush did) he might have gotten my vote. WAKE UP RNC- NEGATIVE PERSONAL ATTACKS WILL NEVER EVER GET MY VOTES AGAIN. By the way most of my family and many African Americans are switching to the Independance party later this year. They will all have to earn our votes in the future. Thanks

Obama's election is s symbol of our overall progress towards racial equality, and unquestionably an important milestone. However, it doesn't really tell us much of anything new about affirmative action. The answer to that question shouldn't be all that different today than it was yesterday.

yes affirmative action should end. It has never worked in the manner it was intend. It has done nothing but divide people.

no, it can't be discontinued, because as long as Clarence Thomas and other successful black people hate black people, affirmative action can not be discontinued.

I think that this is very historic day in this country and the world that in country were you are a minority you can become the president of country where you stil might get pulled over because of the color of your skin. And were most cases in this country were we don't get a fair shake because of the color of or skin but this one man on this day in time is being judge by the content of his character, Which is the huge stepping stone for this country which I thought that I would not see in my life.
I am happy that I did and this doesn't not change the way that things are in htis country he was blessed to have many opportunities that many never see but all minorities should be blessed with even those that don't have white parents. There wiil be a need for affrimative action till the day that everybody can judge a person by there character and ability not the color of there skin.
Take care and be blessed
God Bless America
Montre'll A Hawkins

Affirmative action does not help only those who don't have the drive to push harder. It also helps those that are just not on a level playing field. This election is a step in the right direction..but is not a cure all. There is still racism and sexism out there, and sometimes when those in charge have those things inside of them...we do need help or someone to get behind them and give the minority a chnace.

Affirmative Action is only a surrogate for "reservations". Equity can only be achieved by "pure" competition.
It has to end. If you employ powerful penalties on discrimination then that is the solution.

Love Obama!!! Go rule the hearts!!!

I know he will the best for us!
I am so glad someone stepped out to save us!

I am not 100% sold that this country is where it needs to be in regards to all races and ethnicities receiving the same opportunities in the job market. As a matter of fact, CNN demonstrated this during a segment of the Black in America special that aired this summer. However, as someone who has worked for two major corporations during this decade, I can say that it seems as if companies are focusing more on diversity. I believe in due time more and more corporations/companies will do more to recognize the value of having a diverse workplace. A person'e views and knowledge are shaped not just on formal education, but also on their life experiences. Continuing to recruit and hire based on the notion that this person looks like me and has the same background as me, must think like me and act like me, will not aid in the development of a company nor this country.

Affirmative action should end as everyone has an opportunity to go to school, study, work hard and succeed in America.

My apologies for the duplication.

While Barack Obama is one example of success; his story does not speak the individual experiences of the many people of color, women, and disabled throughout the United States. Affirmative Action will help to create more stories like his.

Curtis from Harrisburg, PA

I belief affirmation action should continue to help promote access to education, employment, healthcareto and redress negative effects of actual or perceived, past or current discrimination that is regarded as unjust.

I believe people voted for Mr. Obama because of the man he is, not the color of his skin. Its 2008, not 1910. But what people are not looking at is if George Bush hadn't of done something about 9/11 then they would of had reasons to say stuff about the war, but its better the war isn't in our back yard. I believe if Mr. Bush hadn't done something the war would of ended up in the USA. I hope Mr. Obama has the same back bone Mr. Bush has. I feel Mr. Obama will do a great job. Mrs. Obama will be a great Frist Lady.

The whole world was awake and watching the USA last night and the country set an impressive example for the world, infact shaming a lot of nations that have insulted humanity in many ways..
Obama's victory has disarmed the bitter, the skeptic, the lazy and the bigots. God bless America!

I'm a 25 year-old educated white DC resident and I acknowledge that racism is still prevalent among a vast swath of "ignorant America," and because of that one theme I keep hearing from older people is that they never dreamed they'd live to see a black president. Considering what those generations have witnessed, I understand the sentiment, but I think it's important to recognize that my generation did believe we'd see a black president in our lifetimes.

As children, we grew up with Jordan and Magic posters on our walls and Michael Jackson music videos; as adolescents, we listened to Tupac and read Shel Silverstein; as young adults, we watched black actors win Oscars and saw Powell and Rice in positions of power. Thankfully, we are disassociated with the racial stigmas of the past. Can the success we saw be attributed to Affirmative Action? I don't know, but there are still the children of "ignorant America" who need to grow up in a country where black people continue to maintain positions of power and influence–especially in proportion to the size of the black population.

The question here is about affirmative action. As I watched the election results, I noticed that many of the states that McCain won were EXTREMELY lopsided. Too many of those states clearly voted based on race. This shows that prejudice is still alive and kicking in America. It is not something that will go away overnight. There is still a generation living who cannot bear to see equality for minorities, for women, etc. This is changing. But it will take several generations for meaningful change to take place in this regard, and so affirmative action practices are still a necessity.

I'm a 48 year-old White male Texan and lifelong liberal,living one block from President Bush's childhood home in Midland Texas....I am proud of an American mandate which selects an African-American man as President and I hope that President Obama will govern from the middle , but leave Affirmative-action alone for now...the playing-field is still slanted a little right!

Affirmative action should be continued. We can see from the map that the country is not uniformly purple. There is still a large part of the population that still would neither vote for nor hire a person of color given the choice.

Any employer still applying racism will never change and basically is not successful anyway. An employer should understand the benefits of employing different cultures and genders. The desire to regulate this in the 21st century is backward looking. It should be a non-issue.

Affirmative action should not end,apart from helping blacks,it helps other minorities and these include women.Without affirmative action,we wouldnt have seen this History being made today.President Barack Obama wouldnt have got into the Ivy league school,and his father who was a kenyan national wouldnt have been allowed to study hear in the USA.So without affirmative action,there would have been no America as it is today,with diversity and everything it has to offer.

Affirmative Action should not end as this is a medium in which equality is guranteed for minority groups. President Elect Obama has proven himself to be a very determined individual who defied all odds and is now at the top. However, there are still those who may need help in not getting exploited as a result of being a minority.

I also want to say that I am a 26 year old Caucasian that wept like a baby not simply because of Obama's African American decent but simply due to the nature of his victory. A landslide that basically stated: We believe in our democracy and we will stick within the bounds of the law to make change. The constitution is strong today my friends, at a time when it felt like the inverse as the case. This is much bigger than the first African American, this is proof that the document written 200+ years ago (having been amended to eliminate it's original flaws of course) WORKS!!!! The world has noticed.

Affirmative action MUST continue because now we have new black in this century (Arab American and Muslim American)

The magic Obama already made a huge miracle around world by send a clear mensage that we must have a dream, just because with this magnitude of dream wherever we are, we alway can... and for sure that mensage is not just for American people , and again, not for just black people...thats if for everyone thats dare to dream....for good reason, i can not stop to cry,for good reason i do bring in my heart kind of speechless smile deep inside ....for good reason

It truly is a historic day. My hearfelt congradulations to President Elect Obama. With that being said,,can you please stop e-mailing me for donations..lol. Godspeed President Barack Obama

First of all,
President-elect Obama is half white and half black. Why does everyone in the media only classify him as black.
Also affirmative action is racism. People should get in to college and get jobs based on their qualifications and good behavior not based on if they are minorities.

Sure Barack Obama was able to achieve great success, but some others need Affirmative Action. Why shouldn't everyone have a chance?

Larry,
May GOD BLESS AMERICA. No, I do not think that affirmative action practices should not end. I think that since Mr. Obama is not the newly elected Pres many people will still encounter situations where they will be discriminated against. I think that certain people in our country will hold a grudge and or simple not like minorities. I make no apologies for how I see this, but I pray that minds will open and that we can push away from racial differences.

Oh, I clicked "Submit Comment" too soon. I'll add the following last bit:

It is uncertain as to whether Affirmative Action should end, should remain the same, or should be fine-tuned.

To be honest, Affirmative Action, like all government policies, must always be re-examined; all government policies are prone to serving the people well, not serving the people at all, or something in between.

We don't have enough information to be sure right now.

Thank GOD Texans didn't buy the propaganda from obama. Who cares what the rest of the world thinks. So is BO going to spread the wealth to the rest of the world, too. GOD Bless US all.

We need affirmative action to continue for all those smart, and hardworking students who come from disadvantaged areas of the country and do not have the great teachers, new technology, all books and so many other advantages that the schools in wealthy communities have. No matter how hard they work, they don't have all the necessary tools to be accepted into top notch universities without some help from affirmative action.

mr Cabrera , it is people like you that gives a bad rep about americans to other countries.No i am am not black,hispanic.I am not even american. I am very white and soproud for the USA to finally have elected an intelligent man. His success is due to his education, hard work and determination. And not letting red necks like yourself stop his dream. He is not white,not black, he is an american, Which is not what I can say about you. Most of america turned a page yesterday and put color aside but as long as there are some like you out there the word racism will never be trike out the dictionnary. Way to go America, way to go Obama!

Since When?.....

As this election has raged full throttle in the homes of millions of Americans, I have come to many realizations.... I am an independent so my thoughts are simply a reflection of my own beliefs apart from influence of either party.

Has anyone noticed how Republican has become synonymous with Christian? How is it that one's political affiliation determines your Christian status? I'm looked down upon by my former small town southern baptist church because of my radical ideas, and shunned for not choosing to be a proud conservative. Well, 3000 years ago, Christ was seen by the conservative pharisees as an extreme radical who had the audacity to challenge an archaic, judgmental system that was benefiting and empowering only themselves.

How have Christians allowed the scales to be so seductively placed over their eyes to the point that the hot political buttons Republicans choose to battle over has created an almost Pharisee-like, and completely un-Christ like attitude towards those directly affected by those issues?

How can Republicans self-righteously profess to be loving and giving Christians, yet, asking American's to pull a little more weight if they have more to give, suddenly has the party crying" SOCIALISM, DON'T YOU DARE TOUCH MY MONEY!!"
A tad hypocritical, eh? One look at the apostles in Acts, finds them sharing everything, selling possessions and dividing the money amongst themselves. No one had more than what they needed. This was what Christ wanted. This encompassed the basis of the Acts church which supposedly Christians are trying to get back to. But how funny when it comes to "our" money, the Christian veil of good stewardship goes out the window.

So when did capitalism become a characteristic of Christian values? Who decided that? The biggest consequence that I see of it, is the financial wreck our country has placed itself in. Capitalism has led to greed and a complete disregard for any stewardship. Aren't Christians supposed to be examples of how to maintain your finances and how to make Godly and wise decisions? I would like to know how many conservative Republican Christians are among those who are now in threat of foreclosure. How is it that "keeping up the with Jones" outweighs our responsibility to be good stewards....
Don't get all up in arms, I'm not suggestion socialism, or communism. I just want people to sit back and think about the possibility that capitalism goes completely against biblical truth. But how funny that arguments such as these are overlooked or purposefully avoided.

Matthew 6:24 No one can serve two masters, because either he will hate one and love the other, or be loyal to one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and riches!"

How can people justify that a lie that is costing America 10 million dollars a month is ok to overlook, yet, its horrendous for a politician to not push to overturn Roe V. Wade. I thought every sin was equal in the eyes of God?

As Christians we are to consider ourselves aliens in a foreign place, meaning we shouldn't expect things to go our way, and perhaps fighting to make our earthly home right in the sight of God is not what He intended. The states and the government follows its own earthly and imperfect authority, and as a Christian shouldn't the focus be on heavenly authority? America is not the Kingdom, so why the fight to attempt to make it so?

You may chide me and say its my duty to vote and support a candidate who best fits... fits what? A Christ like model? Show me where it says in Christ's Great Commission or anywhere else in scripture that I am responsible and that it is my duty to make America more Christlike; i.e Republican.

As Christians, we talk about how hard it is being persecuted for being a growing minority in America. We are indeed aliens in a foreign place and many days we are ridiculed for our beliefs. So how in the world are we able to do an about face and push for harsh laws against the illegal immigrants residing in America, and showing the same persecution and intolerance that we cry and whine about experiencing?
I read an article in the paper today about a murder in Mexico City, where a 5 year old boy was grabbed by rebels, and in the middle of broad daylight he was stabbed in the heart with a needle containing acid. They injected that acid into his little heart and he died in front of his parents and bystanders. Tell me, if you were stuck in those kinds of conditions, what lengths would you go to to get your family out and to safety?

So, vote for whomever you feel is best qualified to run a country that is not the Kingdom
(and therefore should not be battled for as though it were) but don't justify your decision under the guise of Christian standards and morals, because there are too many issues where biblical stance is completely opposite, and it only serves to make one look like a hypocrite.

I BELIEVE THAT THIS HISTORIC MOMENT IS AN WORLD EVENT! BEYOND EPICT PROPORTIONS. MORE ALONG THE LINES OF A MODERN DAY MOSES‚ GIVEN TO US(INCLUSIVE) OF ALL RACES. TO LEAD THE NATION OF THE BONDAGE OF ALL THE PAST WE HAVE ALLOWED TO GO ON. MY PRAYERS IS FOR WORLD‚ TO SEE HOW FAR WE'VE COME. AND HOW FAR WE WILL GO AS A NATION OF PEOPLE‚ WORKING TO A GREATER GOAL!

Barack Obama does not get an extra 10 votes per district because he is black why should anyone get an extra advantage in any other pursuit based on race. affirmative action is racist anyway. look at it this way, affirmative action is saying since black people are inferior we are going to tip the scale in their favor to make them competitive. that is wrong, I think that the race and gender bubbles on forms, job applications, tests and anything else should be taken off because gender and race should not matter.

affirmative action should stay until we have a vote by the people should it stay or go. Racism is not completely dead. Therefor it is very much a necessity and If it were up to me i would let it stay Let the voices be heard and the choice we will live by. i am black and im proud i love every race. Martin Luther King died for this and many others.

Yes! It is needed. America is a work in progress as you can see by the comments on this page, affirmative action is still imperative. We still have a ways to go. But I can feel an end to the colonial rule.
Wow!! Pat Robertson just said Obama can be the best president ever in the united States.

I have to differ from Jenny. Don't get it twisted. Without affirmative action. Obama would NOT have such opportunities. I've experienced first hand the opportunities that allows and the obstacles should it not be available.

I am currently a junior in high school and an Obama supporter. I think affirmative action should end. In the middle of the college application process, i have encountered many situations where students got into schools because of color and not merit. If this is suppose to be a country of equality, then everyone should have the same requirements, and race should not be on of them.

Barack Obama's first experience with affirmative action was when his white grandfather called a friend to get Obama into a exclusive high school. Most poor black people don't have those affiliations. That's why we still need affirmative action.

Perry,
I agree with you. To most of us a new spirit of goodwill has emerged. The country will be a better place on the whole. America is after all the great melting pot.

Throughout this presidential race I have never heard President elect Barack Obama refer to himself as an African American. I am 53 years old and my immediate family includes an extremely diverse ethnic mix including Greek, German, Irish, Native American, French, African, Polish etc. When anyone asks any of my three grown sons what nationality they are they always answer American. Perhaps the time has come that we, as a people need to all identify ourselves as Americans and leave the old divisions behind. After all, Mr. Obama is equally white and black so he is as much the 44th white president as he is the 44th black president. More importantly he is a true statesman with a pure message of hope and unity. I believe he speaks from the heart with a sincerety rarely heard in the halls of power. My President is awesome- an orator and statesman, a gentleman and leader, truely a President we can all be proud of!
As far as the republican camp goes, I feel they lost the election the minute they chose Sarah Palin as Vice Presedential running mate. I think the republicans felt that they could capture the women's vote by putting a woman on their parties ticket. The mistake they made was in thinking that any woman would do. With all of the qualified, intelligent republican women available to them it is a mystery to me what could have led them to settle for Palin. Apparantly my fellow American women were equally mystified and rejected her out of hand as the unacceptable candidate she clearly was. Shame on the republicans for their shallow attempts to manipulate the "girls".

I just saw your interview with Jessie Jackson where he spoke in support of Obama elected as our 44th President. I thought earlier in the campaign that Sr. was not in support of Obama? Wasn't there a situation with Jessie Sr. not supporting Obama and his son criticizing Sr. for his lack of support?

Americans have a history of believing in the quick fix, and the band aid solutions. By electing a person of color, Americans have taken a huge step forward, and we have shown that we are open to the kinds of change this nation will require in order to keep moving forward. But we must avoid falling back into the "easy answer" trap–I am seriously concerned that many Americans will feel able to say, "Racism no longer exists in America; look, we voted for a black man!"

Yes, great progress has been made. But racism remains a major problem in this country, and will remain so for a while to come. We now have proof that we are not the backward nation so many have believed us to be, but our national flaws have not been erased. Racism–and all intolerances–cannot be glossed over and forgotten, but must be faced head on.

And this should not be relevant, but if anyone is wondering, I am a white woman who came of age with the election of 2000. It is wonderful to have finally felt as though my vote actually counted, and that it is possible to make a difference while working within our national system.

Try to remember that affirmative action is for minorities, which includes women as well as different races. We still need to help some minorities achieve the heights we caucasions take for granted. Perhaps it should be called something else so it wouldn't connotate negativity to us caucasions. I am a 57 year old white man and I am very pleased to say I was part of making the dream of equality come true yesterday. Give some of us white folks the credit we deserve for shedding the bad things we were taught as children and realizing that people are people despite race, creed, color, religion, or sex. I look forward to seeing President Obama bring pride back to his and my fellow citizens.

Please not my typo. I meant to say that SINCE MR. OBAMA IS NOW OUR PRESIDENT ELECT....

thank you and sorry for the typo..

Larry, you are a Legend, greatest program.....This event was historic
my wife and I cried too....I am a white 67 years old......it is all about unity and fairness.......you are interviewing great people ...thanks again..
to me it was a non-violent revolution.....you should have seen the people who were driving to Manassas....they would offer right of way...they would give a ride if someone was on foot...the unity....the joy
God Bless America

Affirmative action must end because it requires racism and adversely affects fair competition. Law should not benefit any race or sex and if we cannot end it now, then it cannot be ended.

I love that Mr. Obama is the president. I think that your show is awesome. I think that Mr. Obama is a great man. I am a big fan of Mr. Obama. I supported Mr. Obama when he was getting nonimated for the presidency. I remember going to Iowa. Asking People to vote Mr. Obama. A lot of the people for Mr. Obama was very nice to me when I was helping Mr. Obama. I am so prod of Mr. Obama.

I believe that affirmative action needs to come to an end. Instead of handing one side equalization at the job/position level, why not set up programs to get people the knowledge and tools to get themselves qualified at the root. I think it's important for the American people to find a sense of meaning and earn whatever their dreams may desire..

I'll tell you one thing... I don't think America would have been ready for a president if it was based on affirmative action..

Although I do not support ending affirmative action, I think it needs to be tweaked. I am a 23 year-old Black man from a well-to-do family. I have not experienced anything that could hold me back from fulfilling my potential. I mentored kids – Black, White and other – in Atlanta who have not shared my opportunities. They all need added help to achieve the goals that should be there for them. Affirmative doesn't need to be taken away, just made available for all who are in need.

Affirmative Action has just begun to yield results. It will take several more generations before it can be declared unnecessary.

I am a 56 year old white male Born Again christian from WV voted for Obama and am very proud that he has won this election.My hope and prayer is that people in this country will give him a chance,I have heard so many ridiculous things today about him.I ask my wife today to pinch me,I am so happy that he won.

We should just sell Texas back to Mexico. That state is more trouble than its worth.

It should not be because it affects everyone not only people of color. at the same time people of color should see president elect obama's victory as a reason for all of us to be united as one nation under God. with God everything is possible.

No. Affirmative Action should be continued and expanded. Chances are that Barack is a beneficiary of Affirmative Action. He went to Occidental College, transfered to Columbia and then went to Harvard Law school. This was all done during a time when Affirmative Action was strong. One could say that Affirmative Action gave Barack a chance to be the first African American President of the United States. Therefore, Affirmative Action should be expanded.

Shawnte I agree that more and more corporations are focusing on diversity, but the glass ceiling still exists for groups such as minorities and women.

what a historic event..... Obama is brilliant, smart and determined. He will definitely be a beacon of light and hope for generations to come....

Agreed determination and hardwork gets you up the ladder, however in a society riddled with passive prejudice to the color of the skin, I think it helps people who really need the helping hand. That is not to suggest all of us need help.

I am good at what I do and have a masters degree; worked as a manager of a risk group in a bank and my boss respected me. However that did not stop him from commenting quote For an Indian lady, my english was good and that I am ambitious & intelligent unquote

yes, affirmative actions should come to an end, but we that no matter what we say and what we pretend this thing would never come to an end unfortunately. i think the reason why Obama won was due to the fact that people didnt want bush anymore and this factor was big enough to beat the race factor. thats how he won

Affirmative Action should ABSOLUTELY NOT end. Even with an African-American president, I don't think Alabama will ever become even 50% blue. With that said, even with post-graduate education, 20 years of experience, and multiple awards to highlight my hardworking efforts, without affirmative action I just can't get a fair opportunity to "demonstrate" it.

-Sharon

I dont think it should end due to the fact that the status quo and norm for the average white americans is still not relevantly equal to African American's opporntunity to be as successful as Barack Obama for example Barack Obama could be a product of Affirmative action in itself ...therefore it should continue especially when you now since the birth of this nation have the first african American president....... we have to continue untill opportunity meets the demand

yuken

Affirmative action can still be benificial, however, the target group needs to change. It should not be based on race, but economic status. Why should a rich black man recieve aid over a poor white man. Why should a rich woman recieve assistance over a poor man.

Hey Larry,
Affirmative action is NOT a program for blacks. More white women than blacks are the majority beneficiaryy of affirmative action. Endin git now would harm white women the most. The interetsing thing about this topic is that white women NEVER come up defend it; it becomes a racial issue when they don't defend it.

Yes, as was shown during this election it is irrelevant.

This question is emblematic of Americans' desire for quick solutions to complex problems. Obama has made it clear that our national problems, including racism and discrimination, won't disappear overnight, and anyone with good sense knows that's true. To suggest that tools for equalizing employment or education opportunities for minorities should be scrapped because the executive slot has been filled is naive.

I can only hope, that now that we have elected Barack Obama President, it is an indication that this country is finally coming to terms with the fact that we are no longer a nation of White Americans, Black Americans, Asian Americans, Gay Americans and so on.....we are ALL Americans and as such all deserve the right to every freedom American has to offer. That we can extend our hand to the rest of the world, not as "America...the greatest, strongest nation on earth" but American the most open, compassionate and inclusive nation on earth. My great hope is that President Obama serves whatever terms he serves without some Neo-Nazi or crazy religious fanatic trying to assassinate him "in the name of God" or "racial purity"! God save us all from these kinds of people!

Not everyone has the natural apptitudes or gifts that Obama has and even Obama needed help from others to win the presidency. Affirmitive Action needs to remain in place to help those who need a hand up.

-Karen-

Affirmative action is no longer needed as long as their's an equal playing field. I don't quite think that there's an equal playing field however. Often we make the mistake of overgeneralizing single events. In almost every major category (health, life expectancy, wages, education) African Americans still score lower than their Caucasian counterparts. One example of success inspires hope, but hardly solves our racial divide in the U.S. If anything, affirmative action is only a start to creating a more perfect union, it shouldn't be the end.

No, I do not believe that affirmative action should end. During this election campaign numerous non-black Americans honestly admitted their prejudice in not being able to vote for a black man for president. McCain got 48% of the vote. Some of that 48% couldn't bring themselves to vote for a black man. These people are our bosses, small business owners, supervisors, etc. I know that many of them (conscious or unconsciously) execute these prejudices/stereotypes in how they hire or give opportunities to minorities. It will be a while before most Americans get these prejudices out of their system.

Women business owners get less tham 4% of all federal contracts. The Bush Administration tried to limit them to only 4 out of 140 industries but the SBA has now changed it to 31 sectors.

Women make 78 cents compared to $1.00 that men make for the same position.

Women business owners are glad that Barack Obama has been elected President. Maybe, a rising tide will raise all ships, even if it is a women behind the rudder !!

I have several things to say about affirmative action.

1/ we need affirmative action until the time when a black or female schmuck has the same opportunities and PAY as a white male schmuck. Currently, we have, certainly deservingly, superstars who have achieved parity....but out in the hinterlands, where the ordinary schmucks live, genderism and racism still exist.

2/ some call affirmative action the "quota system." Well, we have existed with the quota system ever since the 1500's. The quota was 100% white male. Now that we have been trying to level the playing field and change the quota ratio, the good ole boys have been crying "foul."

I agree with the lady who says that Obama worked hard and got to the presidency but in the real world, we still have prejudice against minorities and/or ethnicity. If Obama can achieve what he is planning, and if this question is asked in the next Four to eight years, perhaps my answer would change to YES.

Times they are a changin' . Happy Days are here again and I am going to enjoy it. And Yes to Afiji...it is a triumph for Obama and The United States but not a defeat for Bush. Bush has served his two terms and it is time for him to move on.

Affirmative Action should end. I am a moderate democrat and I am elated at Obama's election however affirmative action is an insult to African Americans and other minorities. The very idea that a race or a gender needs a boost to attain the same jobs and possibilities is ridiculous. Advancement should be given to those most qualified, no matter their race, gender, sexual orientation, religion, etc.

Affirmative Action practices should never end for all not just black but for minorites an if whites should become the minority then it should be for them also

The Affirmative Action question is hard to answer. It is really up to the people to say we do not need affirmative action because we have changed the system to be fair. My partner is Native American. When we first met, he told me that years ago, his family changed their name to an hispanic name so they could get jobs. We now have an African-American President Elect and so many people thought they would not see that in their life times. Hopefully we can transition out of the need for Affirmative Action.

The entire point of affirmative action is to ensure a future where the very idea is no longer necessary. We are not yet there because we are still a country DIVIDED... Our differences are just becoming more common... It's no longer just White against Black, there are MANY other important issues for our time on the table and the answers will not be easy. So we make affirmative action BETTER and we continue to teach diversity to our children and look how far we've come in the last 4 decades... And IMAGINE how far we can go in the next four. We need to stop these petty arguments and start brainstorming and taking an active role in being positive influences in the future and the challenges that we face together as Americans.

Affirmative Action should be ended. It is a program that promotes mediocrity, and instantly makes the more qualified individual less qualified. I believe that affirmative action causes resentment towards minorities, and only inflames the problems that it tries to solve.

Many employers see color and sex before experience and education, but Affirmative Action makes them do it even more. Affirmative action can force and employer to hire a less experienced and less educated woman or person of color when there is a white man better suited for the job. Affirmative action may do some good when it comes to racist companies, but it makes companies who aren't racist in a different way. Obama being elected president shows that America is weaning away from the awful racism that Dr. King fought so hard against decades ago.

but Texas has oil....

We still need to wait for the day when election of an African American president will be more of a norm and will not be considered something extraordinarily special or out of the world if you may!

When that day arrives, we will be ready to end affirmative action.

No Affirmative Action should not end. Just because a wise and compassionate black President was elected does not mean discrimination has completely vanished. Discrimination toward minorities and women is still a real issue in our country.

It is much too soon to end affirmative action. Where there is inequality and exclusion, affirmative action remains essential in promoting equal opportunity in the workplace, higher education and contracting. President-elect Barack Obama is an excellent example of someone who was qualified for the job and who was given an opportunity to serve. The essence of affirmative action is opportunity, not preferences.

Affirmative action programs, which aim to remove barriers to opportunity, were instituted in the 1960s because minorities and women who were qualified were not given the chanace for employment, higher education and contracting. Progress has been made, but there still remain barriers at the entry level leading to the executive suite.

No, affirmative action programs were put in place to ensure and guard equal opportunity. We have come too far as a nation, how far we have come has been proven by the history made last night , yet we still have a long way to go.

Let's not confuse affirmative action with equal employment opportunity. With one, the employer goes out of his/her way, searches and reserves positions for members of minorities in order to ensure that they are represented in the work force; sometimes with disadvantage to the non minority who is more highly skilled or more qualified for the job. This practice is no longer necessary to give people a leg up. However, discrimination still occurs, especially toward women and this needs to be stopped. Probably that will only take place with continuing legal action. But diversity training and awareness needs to be part of workplace orientation and schooling.

I understand the rationale behind Affirmative Action, but it doesn't explain the multitude of individuals who achieve without need for such policies. Is it acceptable to favor specific races, ages, colors, or sexes? No, it certainly isn't, and it would appear as though that's what Affirmative Action is in practice today. Universities shouldn't be so exclusive. Then there wouldn't be a need for practice of Affirmative Action in education. In all cases "good" education leads to "good" opportunity. Race was never a factor in deciding success.

Alot of people in my state around me today were concerned with his presedency. Such as his relations with ex domestic terrorist or socialism. Lets give all give him a fiar opportunity to live up to what he is stating and share an open door to his visions. And lets hope he does help turn around some or most of the issues in this country which in return can affect the whole world. To vote is a right and a gift...... We made our choice..... Now lets see what that decesion brings.... The old saying is... We learn from our history..... So this hasnt happened yet in 200 years... So lets see what we learn.... Right??? We all deserve a chance to prove ourselves everyday and only to show what we can do day in and day out.... Lets give him that chance...

I agree that President Obama is a prime example of reaching higher learning; however, how does one know that affirmative action didn't have a hand in helping President Obama receive that higher learning?

To make race an issue at all, is to make race an issue. We as human beings would do ourselves well to make no affirmation of race, political, social, economic, anything. Affirmitave action is only destructive to America.

NO, Affirmative Action should not end. Equality isn't achieved when one exceptional person breaks through to the top. Equality is when average people, regardless of race and gender, can work side by side based on merit and not bias.

Indeed, America is a land of opportunity. Originally from Africa and the youngest of 25 children, l came to America many years ago in search of a better life; freedom, a voice and ultimately pursue an academic career. Singlehandely, l worked tirelessly, persevered and mustered courage to achieve all that l had set forth for myself; I had the opportunity to attend NYU for both undergrad and graduate school. Now, l can proudly say, l did it inspite of all obstacles. Obama is the epitome of courage, perseverance and hardwork. Nothing was handed to him on a silver platter – with determination, one can achieve one's dreams. I have no doubt that Obama's victory will lay credence on his journey and will serve as example for all to emulate.

How sweet it is to see a fellow African achieve the highest office on this universe.
Cheers
NK

No more oil, we need alternative fuels. We have been slaves to the oil companies for too long.

Yippee !!! I am a white 50 yr old 20 yr navy vet fliving in Virginia. I think this question is aperfect example of how we (don't) think. To me the smartest guy and practically prophet of the modern age is Alvin Toffler. He predicted so many things as far back as 1970, that were, at the time, inconceivable like that everyone would have a computer in thier home that would be tied to other computers in "networks" or that water would be the new oil and there would be polital disputes and even wars over it, or that only "renewables" would be a viable energy solution . Only a few yrs ago if I mentioned a "wave powered generator " I got a real blank stare of disbelief and another of Toffler's key concepts is that politics will no longer be about left or right but about bringing the real solutions we will desperately need to find in the post colonial third wave world of future shock. The question of affirmative action is really a question of how we are all connected and how when you are not optimized in the system, we are all effected, so it behooves us all to do what needs to be done and assist all to their optimized positions to empower their function for the common good. Now if some are starting from a disadvantaged position it is in our best interest to level the field and to realize that "holding some back" victimizes us all. This is not liberal thinking, it is intelligent thinking. The down todden will cost you, one way or another. I will resist the temptation to go on and on any more and just clarify by stating that the culture of fairness will eclipse Affirm Action, just as Obama's brilliance eclipses the fact of his ancestry, as great of a milestone his election is, and thank God we have elected an African American in this nation, but actually, the "third wave" understanding he posesses is even more historical, but remains to be revealed and comprehended. if your still awake, accept my apologies.

No. Though president elect Barack Obama is truly an amazing person and he proves that it certainly can be done... Unfortunately, however, there are still millions of Americans who are still not viewed through color blind eyes. THAT must change first before affirmative action should.

No, Affirmative Action should NOT be abolished; yet it SHOULD be "redesigned"; as color of skin is no longer the main deciding factor of who needs assistance and who doesn't.

America should never lose its nature to make accessible the entire spectrum of what is available regarding advancement; yet, what she DOES need to do is progress with the signs of the times. Obama's election to the Presidency tells us that "race" is no longer the standard in which Affirmative Action should be disciplined, but rather other factors such as gender, physical ability, mental ability and other factors that ARE still "disadvantages".

Just my 2¢
tecHead

I do not believe affirmative action should end. I believe a lot of people, many, many people misinterpret affirmative action with just color. Affirmative action applies to all individuals who can be discriminated against for any reason, not just people of color. Affirmative action was created so that a host of individuals have equal and fair practices. For an example, I you live in a 50% Caucasion populated area, 40% African American, and 10% Hispanic community, then businesses around you should reflect that same margin, proving that the individuals are qualified.. Or if you live in a community in which 55% are women and 45% are men, your place of employment should reflect that same margin. These are the type of things that affirmative action seeks to fix. This should not be taken for granted. At some point in time, affirmative action can and will benefit all.

All we know about our great hero John McCain is that he bombarded villages, couldn't fly a plane and sucks at escaping ...!!
(this is a Joke for Bill Maher

Jimmy Ledezma
Marina del Rey, California

No. I might have said otherwise if I have seen the color blue on the map last night on some other southern states other than Florida. After many centuries one African American ( who is part white) has achieved something that I never thought would be possible in my lifetime. But that does not mean all the people of color are accepted for their talents alone.

President elect Barack Obama has proven that anyone can become anything they desire, even the President of the United States. To continue pursuing biased affirmative action practices makes no sense. Having said that, violations of bias laws should be vigorously enforced.

Hope he does spread the wealth to the world.This is gonna reduce inequality and reduce the rich/poor divide.Some countries like Norway don't have disparities as we do here..Spreading the wealth should be done.

I am an Italian citizen who has been living in New York for the last 33 years, as representative of an Italian bank, and still holding a green card even if I married an American women 27 years ago.
I always had serious reservations about becoming an American citizen but after yesstarday election of Barak Obama as President of this country I thing I am ready to change my mind and become an American citizen.
I also feel very proud for having received the e mail that President Obama sent tpo all his campaign volonteers before addressing the croud in Chicago for the victory speach.

OK, after reading some of these ignorant responses alone, A.A. needs to stay in effect. You people may actually hold managerial positions. But then, who really wants to work at Chuck E. Cheese anyway?

It truly is a historic day. My hearfelt congratulations to President Elect Obama. With that being said,,can you please stop e-mailing me for donations..lol. Godspeed President Barack Obama

I agreewith you Sai!

I asked myself the same question already. I must be psychic! Hek no. Electing Obama as the first Black President is a beautiful event and a milestone. Eliminating Affirmative Action is yet another milestone on the horizon. He and the government definitely has enough to deal with before Affirmative Action should be a real concern.

Let me preface this by saying I am African American... however, I feel Affirmative Action needs to end, because it undermines our capability. I am a successful professional who has worked hard in school/my career thus far, and would not want to be labeled as being given a hand-out at any point during this course. FAR FROM IT!!!

but I need to drive to work today! I agree the alternatives are needed, not too many can make an argument the other way, but we should keep Texas during our weening period for their oil (still the life blood of the nation)....

Congratulatons President Elect Obama!!! I believe Affirmative Action should end. The believe that it's prejudicial as it always makes me (a white male) wonder whether the minority person hired/admitted is there because they are most qualified or to meet some mandated quota.

Why or how can anyone simplify such a complicated subject? If I had to guess, I think discrimination will become even more prevalent in light of the election.

why would you have jesse jackson on you show, knowing how much some black don't care for him after what he said about obama. I think it was tacky and incensative, because he speaks for no one and should be banned from speaking on the subject.

There should be affirmative action, Yes as a nation we have learned and broke barriers that were thought never possible over time, and yes Barack Obama as a black president has achieved things through hard work and determination but dont forget how HARD he had to work to get there. This election should have been given to the next democrat running as president due to how bad the countries' condition is in now, but because he was a different race than the regular joe that runs for president he had to deal with criticism and had to fight immensely hard to gain respect. If another figure with his personality, discipline, and charisma ran for president it would have been much easier. Its a shame that people cant see past a persons skin color. Every other race before this one never caused so much chaos, and its all because of President Obama's color.

@ Delia

I am from Southwest Georgia and the fact of the matter is, he's black. Half black is black in the south, most especially. Any person with any origins of black racial groups out of Africa is considered black or African American. If he were to be pulled over by the police, they would radio in his description without asking if he were biracial. If you were to describe him to a person in a setting where you were looking to meet him, you would describe him, under normals circumstances as a tall, slender black man– if you weren't privy to his background. Historically, there is no way that he would "pass" for anything else in the Old South, therefore he is black even though he is technicall biracial. I hope I explained things. At the end of the day, the world identifies him that way and it speaks to the world volumes where progress is concerned. We can now get over his degree of whiteness hopefully and start focusing on the nation coming together and moving forward.

When all public schools in America offer equal quality of education adn educational opportunity, then affirmative action can end.

We must remember that it was affirmative action which provided food stamps, student loans, and right to attend tje best schools and universities which propelled the Obamas to the White House. We must also be cognisant of the fact that this law includes women, the handicapped, and many races of people that lack access to equal opportunity which is guaranteed for all Americans.

Affirmative action should not end. Maybe it should end when African Americans presidential candidates are the norm and not the exception. Hard work and dedication obviously yield success, but I think it is still difficult for many to see their way through the obstacles that still exist for many many Americans!

If Barack PROVES that with hard work and determination, you can achieve success, then why did it take so long? For those who believe he's the first to have gone to Harvard, etc., etc., you have much to discover. The truth is, while BARACK has become president, we still have difficulty appointing African-Americans to CEO's of Fortune companies, so while we've come a long way, we have much further to go. And what about other ethnic groups. For a land that calls itself the melting pot, we're ice cold. So you tell me...do we still need Afrimative Action?

Of course Affirmative Action should end. It was a horrible idea from the beginning. If we can all agree that the use of skin color as a measure of how well a person will do a job, then why do we continue a program that uses skin color to promote the hiring of one race over another? Past discrimination, no matter how malevolent it was, should not be an excuse to discriminate in the opposite directlon today.

LARRY,
AFFIRMATIVE ACTION MUST CONTINUE AND FOR ONE POWERFUL REASON......... IF YOU CAN DENY ACCESS TO PEOPLE BASED ON RACE, GENDER, ETC. FOR 2 HUNDRED YEARS THEN YOU HAVE TO ALLOW ACCESS BASED ON RACE , GENDER, ETC. FOR ANOTHER TWO HUNDRED YEARS TO MAKE IT RIGHT......WE CANNOT PRETEND THAT THIRTY YEARS MAKES UP FOR TWO HUNDRED YEARS OF OPPRESSION TO MINORITIES AND WOMEN (WHO HAVE BENEFIT THE MOST BY THE WAY, WHITE WOMEN PARTICULARLY)

Affirmative action should stop regardless of whether Senator Obama won the presidential race. While its intent is to force a majority to recognize the qualifications of a minority, affirmative action validates the idea that qualification is based upon identity and not potential performance. Quality should be more important than diversity; as people from both the majority and all minorities step up to the plate and focus on holding themselves to high standards (as Senator Obama clearly has), diversity will make its way into work place and university while ensuring the high quality of the individual.

Yesterday at the Polls, I was urging voters to vote no on Prop 8 here in California. I told a man, who happened to be black, that if he voted yes, he would be denying me a fundamental right to marry under the law even thought I pay taxes and contribute to society just like everyone else does… His response was that I didn’t deserve any rights because I was gay... My question... What would MLK say to this given the discrimination we’re facing is exactly the same as African-Americans and woman faced just 50 years ago?

I am very inspired by Barak Obama. I voted for him not because he is African American, but because of the hope that he brings to us all.
He brings a message of unity, not division; which will go along way toward us not needing Affirmatie Action, but for now I think that A.A. is still needed; maybe at least in moderation. And I hope that one day, possibly in my life time there will be a end to racial division and separatism and that people will judge others by what they personally know about them and not just by the color of their skin.

Congratulations Pres-Elec Obama!!!! Congratulations America!!!

How can we end affirmative action? Obama had to be darn near perfect to get this election. This question could only come from the north and midwest where so many are far removed from the blatant racism of the south. And yet, I perfer the south then to be in an area where racism is so covert. At least you see it coming and know what your dealing with! In the South they dont care how close you get, but how big you get. In the north, it's not about how big, but dont get to close.

Chicago by way of Louisana

I believe affirmative action should end when Obama's election. I think our country has move very far in the past couple of decades. I do not agree with affirmitave action because i think it's racist and sexists. America is about the best man for the job not having a certain number races at your job. I also believe stuff like college funds for black americans, asians, latinos, or if there is even a college fund just for white people is racist. Why can't it be just for poor kids who can't afford it, and don't even get me started on BET, i mean would it be raciest to have a White Entertainment Television? why can't you call it urban entertainment television?

Affirmative Action is definitely still needed. With education, hard-work, and determination anyone can accomplish anything in America However, if you are a minority, it takes 3 times as much education, 3 times as much hard work, and 3 times as much determination. Affirmative Action does not give anything that is not deserved. It only levels the playing field a little more.

Am I the only one to notice that Barack is half white? Why can we not say a white man became the president elect last night. Yes, last night was a milestone because Barack is half african american, but lets save the tears for when a real full african american wins. Celebrate when Jesse Jackson or Reverend Al Sharpton wins; neither of whom would ever win. A milestone would be a full african american winning. However, the voters did not seem to mind voting for Barack because he is half white. The african american race is riding this all the way to the bank, but come on I say that last night a white man became the president elect. Because someone is half african american do they claim that they are full african american? Is that the rule? At least we will never hear that the white man is keeping us down again!!

Today we still have huge educational diparities between black and white students; meaning that we still have more whites with access and achievement in college educations than black. Now that you have seen Obama, ask yourself if you can now believe that the reason for blacks with lower achievement in education is due to their stupidity and laziness. If you can still look yourself in the mirror and believe that is true, then and only then can you say that past discrimination has nothing to do with the current disparities in education. The mandate for affirmative action is to make up for PAST discrimination: it is not just to prove that America is no longer racist.

yes, Affirmative action is reverse discrimination. Any law that makes it legal to give preferred treatment to anyone based on race or sex is wrong. We've had woman V.P candidates, black CEO's, Black Secretary of State, a black National Security Advisor, and a black joint chief of staff among others. Not only politics, but sports too, the ratio of blacks in the NBA and NFL. There isn't a need to discriminate anymore

First, I am thrilled with the outcome of the election. Affirmative action should continue. Afirmative action has benefitted women and other disenfranchised groups of all ethnic backgrounds. It has helped to equalized pay for women and established access to high level jobs beyond the secretarial group.

Of course not, just because america has elected the first african american president does not mean rascism is dead. America is growing, this is a new generation, and the old way of doing things is over, however we still have much work to do in regard to race relations, but we have come a long way evidenced by Obama's win.

Larry,
No, affirmation action should not end. I wish President Obama’s election to presidency could immediately confirm equality for all, but that is not realistically the case. The hope is still that people will be judge on their character, credentials and other factors that relate to them gaining the employment they are seeking. Race relations in America are works in progress, but I am ecstatic about the UNLIMITED POSSIBILITIES of America living up to its name "THE UNITED STATES."

I believe that affirmative action is still necessary because of the narrow minded people that hold positions of power in this country. There are many that will always exclude people from opportunity due to what they see on the exterior. It takes affirmative action to give all minorities an opportunity to prove that they are equal in those instances where they may be overlooked. Many white people overlook the fact that affirmative action can benefit them too in instances when they are concidered a minority.

Responding to Amy,
Don't worry BHO (Obama) will spread nothing. The conservatives and the power money know exactly how to get in the way of hostess cupcakes like Obama. It's all in the game of networking with other people intent on choosing who gets or takes thier money and collaborating on the massive amounts of deductions and credits available legally to all of us, but only money folks share the ideas with other money filks. The slackers and wannabees will continue to listen to BHO's koum bi ya (not sure of the spelling) and we'll eat his lunch financially which will be what weakens him for 2012

Yes Bill Maher and Michael Moore were great!

I strongly believe that affirmative actions should still continue. I think that last night was a memorable night that American's will always remember. This election was very personal to me in regards to my future as a mother of a bi-racial child. I soon as I heard the results on television, I knew it was a moment...it gave me the peace that one day me and my husband can honestly be able to tell our child that he/she can accomplish anything and reach for the sky. I think that our next step here in America and our responsibilities as citizens, we should now come together and unite. This is our moment...our moment to change, to change for the better so our children will have a future where there are no limits. It's not just race, gender, cultural diversity, but it's simply getting past that and moving for as the UNITED States of America.

Affirmative action should absolutely continue. While the results of this election show that we have made great strides towards achieving true equality, the ripple effects of bigotry and outright racism run too far and too deep in our society to so quickly abandon the struggle. One need only glance briefly at the upper echelons of corporate America to see we have a looong way to go: And that’s just when one examines a single aspect of those negative ripple effects that still impact African Americans. Just glance at the disparities in education, and the story of our continuing battles clearly emerges.

Hey VickyBell, do you need your ears checked out? McCain was CONGRATULATING Obama as being the first black president. Please tell me how that could be offensive to anyone? What? Now white people can't congratulate the FIRST BLACK PRESIDENT without mentioning how great it is that his race has made advances? Where does the entitlement and the right to always have everything your way end?

Affirmative Action should continue. The dragon has not been slayed completely although we continue to see evidence of its impending demise. As long as barriers remain to exclude individuals based on color and sex Affirmative Action is the only tool in place to legitimately combat those actions.

Affirmative action should remain in place. it acts as a mediator to the prejudices in the back of the minds of those ignorant to the culture, race, and religion of others amongst our economically, and racially stratified nation. once we are truly unified and equal as americans, affirmative action will no longer be of use. an african american as president is monumental and extroardinary but by no means is an indicator for the removal of affirmative action. yes he made it due to hard work, and grew up poor, but there are thousands of minority individuals who are of the same upbringing that would not have an opportunity if not for affirmative action.

I sat and I watched, my 16 yr old, my 21 yr old and I...with bated breath. I couldn't believe the non chalance of the crowd in the place.....I mean here we are sitting on the precipice of greatness...our country was proving to the world what we always said we were about...here's this man, who looks like my son...smiles like my son...who looks right out of the camera into my (our)heart(s)....he was truly taking on this loneliest of roles, for all of us;each and everyone...and no one was looking. My son was afraid...he felt a certain tension in the air I suppose...I tried to calm his fears because I truly wanted to explain it away, for it all to be a certain air of expectation really. But I knew he'd seen all the ugliness on the news and in their eyes as they sat like us waiting on their dinner...my daughter, whose voice usually carries over any strident television show; was unusually subdued and kept shushing me. Me, who they usually don't hear because my voice is so soft...was I shouting? I felt like I was holding my breath. What the heck is wrong with these people? Thisis time for celebration...they are scaring my kids...this is not what I planned.
And then the ticker goes across the bottom of the screen....OMYGOD...he won...and no one responds. It was a dreadful thing. I kept saying itover and over because no one heard me...I said; He won! He has been projected the winner! Ithink my babies werein shock...maybe I thoughtI was speaking, maybe I was whispering in awe...but there wasno joy in the entire place...I am so ashamed of my neighbors. I am ashamed too that my joy and my jubilee with my children was stubbed out by fear and dread. I stilll cried...I still lifted my hands in praise to God...I still let my waiter (who didn't want to wait on me) know that the night was full of the promise called President Elect OBAMA...he had to agree albeit begrudgingly...but me and the secret few of us who caught each others eye...we screamed for joy (inside)...hope is alive! I skipped out the door and yes, I stilled tipped.

I believe we will never all be equal until we are all equal and I believe affirmative action prevents equality. We must stop dwelling on the past, too many people have had injustices served upon them. Now is the time to look to the future and work together to make a better world.

Without question, Affirmative Action policies should continue until there is parity in education and employment. Most people associate Affirmative Action with African Americans. However, women, veterans, and other minorities benefit from these programs, in some cases more so than African Americans. As a matter of fact, the primary beneficiaries of Affirmative Action across the nation are white women and not African American males or females. In some states, white male veterans receive more preferences than African Americans. At the end of the day, we all benefit in making this a better America!

Obama in one day, has changed the view White Americans have for African Americans forever.

It is hasty to declare that the structures that triggered a need for affirmative actions have ended simply because we now have a President of a Minority group origin.
We should instead see this as prove positive that affirmative action programs help level the playing field.

If you look at one of the major factors behind Sen. Obama's win – its the young generation voting for him. In my opinion, that's is the biggest indicator that "Affirmative Action" has done the job it was created for... now we do have a homogeneous social structure and if we don't stop it for personal or political reasons, it's long term affects could be very devastating. "Affirmative Action" if continued more than it's really required, will fire back and divide the society.

It appears to me that Republicans are so bitter about their loss last night that they continue spewing the same hate that they had been during the entire election. The people have spoken and their choice is CRYSTAL clear. It is time for republicans to get on board with the plan, as their plan has failed miserably; they are how we got in this mess and it is time for new leadership to begin cleaning it up. I beg republicans to cease their practice of making up lies about PRESIDENT ELECT Obama; it is doing no one any good.

I believe that it has been premature for the court to address this question and for moves to be made to eliminate and weaken Affirmative Action. I know too many African Americans, not even considering women, still have to go to work and train White co-workers while been blatantly being denied raises and fair treatment without saying anything for fear of being label "not a team player" – a career limiting move. On main street, people of color are still walking as "The Invisible Man." Check with those on 20/20 and 60 Minutes who have resently done those documentaries about how applications of people of color and their white counterparts don't get the same objective view.

I do not think affirmitive action should end. I'm an educated black female that lives in Alabama who encounters microaggressions on a daily basis. There is now hope but racism is still alive. The state of al is all red. I am so full and proud to be able to look at my two daughters and especially my son and say, you can be what ever you set your mind to, it does not matter what color you are, you can even be the president. I pray for those that are having a hard time with crossing racial boundries. I hope they can learn to appreciate that we are all different but this is what makes us unique. If there were not different spectrums of light we would have no rainbows.

Affirmative-Action should absolutely not end. This program is meant to address the disparity faced by minorities. Barack Obama's winning of the presidential election is historic and a major step, however who's to say he didn’t have to work twice as hard to meet this milestone? He ran a nearly perfect campaign and the Mccain campaign was heavily flawed with an unpopular sitting republican president with whom John Mccain voted with 90% of the time. What I find disturbing is the fact that some people fail to acknowledge that minorities have not received equal treatment in this country and even more disturbing some that DO acknowledge the disparity oppose Affirmative-Action while offering no alternative plan. Sure it’s not a perfect policy because reverse discrimination does exist. However by opposing Affirmative-Action, you are saying either that it’s ok to discriminate against minorities but not white men, or you are in denial of the fact that blacks, women and other minorities face discrimination.

How could someone ask this question?

Just because one American, who happens to be black, becomes President of the United State does not erase all of the racial history, tension, and unresolved consequences that this country still is reluctant or sometime outright deny exist.

Plus, affirmative action is for the minority of any population – that includes women, blacks, hispanics, asians, etc. Affirmative action is a tool to diversify a population, not a handout.

I AM TWELVE BUT IM HAPPY FOR OBAMA AND MCCAIN. OBAMA!! THES ELECTION MEANS ALOT TO ME. I AM GLAD IM ALIVE TO SEE THIS. I NOO KNOW THAT ANYNENO MATTER WHAT CAN DO ANYTHING. IF SOMETHING HAPPENS TO OBAMA, WE CAN SAY THAT AN AFRICCAN AMERICAN GOT PICKED!!! WOO OBAMA

I support affirmative action. Women busines owners get less that 4% of all federal contracts. The Bush Administration tried to limit them to 4 out of 140 industry sectors but now SBA has increased it to 31 !!!

Women earn only 78 cents compared to a male's $1.00.
We are happy that Barack Obama has been elected. Hopefully a rising tide raises all ships regardless if it happens to be a woman at the rudder !

Affirmative Action is a form of discrimination. We should end all discrimination. There is still a divide in this country as far as opportunity, but fixing the problem with more discriminating policies is not an acceptable solution. We should work to bridge the gap, but affirmative action is not the best way.

Alright, but just until we do not need oil anymore, then we sell it to Mexico.
We do have the technology now to use electric, natural gas, or hydrogen though.

last night was one of the greatest days in american history,but as a nation we still have a long,long way to go. you can not look at just one man and judge all men by his accomplishments.that is why we need to keep affermative action.

Change has come and the problem with old America is that they don't want to see it change for better. His presidency has captured American people hearts with trust, intellect, passion, and belief that there can be change. We are all different but want to live in a world where all of us are equal and are granted opportunities to live and survive freely and to make our own choices. There will be those who will try and use tactics and antics to try and destroy him, but it wont work. This presidency is for the people by the people and now the people must stand up and deliver the fight we started. We now have a voice and a feel of hope in our hearts and our minds and we must capitalize on this new day and walk the talk. Its not his fault that all the chaos and problems that have evolved in this country he will now inherit. You can try to blame him but we all k now who and what put our country in this black hole. But we believe that Obama can help change and better things with our help. If God brings you to it he will bring you through it.

Barack Obama is simply the best candidate for the position of President of the United States of America.

Black or not.

I disagree with Ginny. Affirmative action should remain. Students that come from low income families that are raised in rough conditions and economic despair have to fight so much harder than a middle or upper class student. Yes, hard work and determination will get you far but let's be real .... hispanic or black students coming from poor neighborhoods and single family homes are going to have it much tougher than a student with affluent parents that have clout and money. It is important to give everyone an equal opportunity to access higher education.

In responses to Ginny"s comment on Affirmative Action, I agree that hard work and determination can prove that success is attainable. What happens when you do both and you see the very thing you worked so hard for is given to someone who didn't have to work hard, but just happened to be a friend of a friend? Do you know what that feels like? Margaret

amy November 5th, 2008 9:46 pm ET

Typical bashing from DEMs, fear mongering, what is that.? Buddy you need to can handle the truth. OBAMA is not my president. He will be scrutinized just like Bush was the last 8yrs. There is a LOT of skeletons in his closet, also Micheles closets, we look forward to.

James... 1. I'm an independant and you owe me your supplication 😉
[I just love throwing rocks at albino monkeys... see how they flap aimlessly about?]

2. Obama *IS* YOUR president. Throw your temper tantrums all you like, but never forget you OWE HIM your allegiance, and your patriotism, and your childs lives in the military, just as you and Bush swore to god we owed you ours, and you recommitt that promise every single time you pledge allegiance to the flag. YOU created this, adn now YOU will live with YOUR creation.

3. It's true he WILL be scrutinized, and in all honesty, it will be WE who voted for him who will hold his feet closest to the fire, all your pety smallisms aside, adn your shaking of your teeny tiny insignificant little fists. Scream out loud to the stars that Barack Obama is not your president, because in the end... you KNOW IN YOUR HEART OF HEARTS THAT HE IS 😆

4. The only skeletons you'll find in Baracks closet are those of racism and entrenched racist power... decaying and collecting dust as his presidency holds them aside to be buried by the VAST MAJORITY of American people.

President Elect Obama is African-American because his father is African and his mother is American.

President Elect Obama has succeeded in spite of the existence of racism in this country, not because racism has ended. Racism is not as obvious today as it once was, but the inequalities that still occur should not be dismissed because of Obama's historical accomplishment. Minority children who are plagued with failing schools and crime ridden neighborhoods still deserve extra opportunities to help them achieve their full potential.

As an African-American, mother of 2 and grandmother of 1, I have always known the ability level and potential of my race. It is, however, ufortunate that so many took so long to realize it as well!

If we had been allowed to learn to read, write, etc. like all the other children, maybe this would have happened sooner? I am thankful though that America sees now and understands why we have always spoken of Black pride!

I applaud all who voted for Sen. Obama and pray for those who did not that they will now join the nation in its quest to be the best!

Thank you ...

Yes we do believe that Affirmative Action should end due to the fact that it has become almost reverse discrimination now. We have a son who was Magna Cum Laude of his College, graduating with 3 degrees in Chemistry, Biology and Math and was turned down by 12 different Medical Schools in the United States. He was accepted by St. George's in Grenada but we are in total disbelief. We are middle class caucasians, tax paying, small business owners and we feel like we're outcasts. It must end. All people, white, black, Oriental, etc. etc. should be all judged on the same levels. Especially for Medical School we need to have our brightest minds in this country be able to rise to the top and not be reversely discriminated against. Please Barack Obama make this one United country under God. Help us all become one cohesive unit!!!

Affirmative Action has not done precisely what it was set forth to do; therefore, it also is a work in progress. I'm a prime example. Determination is a must, I agree. However, as a black female with a Master's Degree, I can tell you I'm constantly fighting to achieve my personal goals professionally. Unfortunately, the decision-makers always have a different set of rules for me as a woman and as a minority to provide proof of my ability. I'm faced everyday with the understanding and constant reminder that the rules of engagement, standards and expectations are steeper for me even with that education. I' currently work in government and have worked in the private sector and there is no difference–the requirement is still the same.

Teresa in Dumfries, VA

America has at long last, elected a man who possesses the potential to be great. He may be one of America's greatest presidents. He will need his intelligence to undo the mess left by an unintelligent president who is unable to understand the mess he has, and still is, creating.

This is more the people who are against affirmative action, you must realize that there are various forms of affirmative action. Did you know that most employment psychologist have proven in research that you are more likely to get the job if you are taller and or good looking. So maybe we could propose plans to have affirmative action for the short and unattractive. (ha ha)

On a serious note:
Also, there is tons of affirmative action for veterans, we (I am a disabled desert storm vet) get extra 10 points on our government applications if we served in combat and even more if we are a disabled veteran.

So those who are against affirmative action need to ask themselves if they would be against that?

Why would we still need affirmative action when Obama has won a bigger percentage of white votes than other democrats have recently. Look at Iowa, a mostly white state overwhelmingly voted for him to become president.

Francois,
Cheney is gone, and so to all his legislations, networks, and govenrment contracts. The curtain on your power group will fall, and you will be eating that for lunch.

oh sorry i forgot 2 things....besides asking to be excused for my spelling (spontaneous ?) but wanted to give a shout out to my main man Bill Maher, of course to OBAMA !!!!!!!! and, oh yeah,.........baba boey, baba boey !

Hi Larry,
I am a 23 year old college student that attends the University of Southern Mississippi majoring in psychology and very proud of the outcome of last nights presidential election. I never thought that this soon in my life time I would get to witness the election of a African American President. Although, President Barack Obama didn't win our six electoral votes here in Mississippi, which I was not suprised, I am again very happy with the results of the overall election. I am so proud that I was in the mist of history unfolding and will have this spactacular event to hopefully share with my children and grandchildren. John Macain and Sarah Palin ran a totally negative campaign and never once tried to reach out to anyone, besides the wealthy. The ticket did nothing but tried to bash Obama. They never once announced a clear cut plan that all americans could beleive in. Mccain chose a poor choice for his V.P. pick. He chose a lady who was very unintelligent and he hardly even knew her. Why did he choose her? He thought by choosing a woman that he would win over all of the Hillary Clinton supporters, but he was dead wrong. Hillary Clinton is an extremely intelligent woman and American clearly seen the difference between her and Palin.

Last night the world witnessed a transformational moment in the evolution of human social behavior. Each one of us in our homes, along with our brothers and sisters in Kenya, were transported to the hopeful side of humanity's capacity to simply become better than we have ever been in the past. We are transformed. All of us, White, Black, Hispanic, Christian, Muslim, Jewish, ..... American, British, Japanese..... we have grown beyond nationalism and labels. For one shining moment, we are a global community celebrating our capacity for nobility. We are transformed. The road ahead promises even more growth, as surely as it promises problem and challenges.

all the states that were in red racism is still there

It is very unforunate but it would be very bad if affirmitive action ends just today I was in a dept store and the cashier was on the phone very loudly talking, saying how the nation is going to hell because of the President we just elected in, also quoting Bible verses supposely to prove her point before I new it I said thats all lies you shouldnt be saying that (which she did go on and on) but point being that we better be prayfull because everyone just does not play fair employees and employers just no good people in general that have not forgotten how things were and how they would like it to still to be as it was. JUst to make this piont the lady was over 40 and in South Carolina and maybe u can guess what color>>>>>>>>>>>>>>

Hopefully America will embrace the new president for his leadership ability, rather than oppose him because of the color of his skin. A diverse America voted him into office, but a select group oppose him because he is black. To me, he is more than the color of his skin. President Elect Borack Obama represents charisma, transformation, and the hope that exist in so many people's heart. He proved that any man has the ability to be whatever he desires despite naysayers. He is our president, and the leader of our future. It is in God we trust....not the man! We trust God to lead him in all of his decisions.

it means so much, to so many that Barack Obama is our next President.

but i have been personally transformed.

i found myself thinking about Obama vs. McCain not in terms of a black man vs. a white man.

but as something completely different.

among friends, i likened my decision to a choice between "the young don shula and the old mike ditka." two professional men of strong character, in a highly competetive field, playing in the big leagues.

funny thing is: both shula and ditka are white.

the color of mr. obama's skin never even mattered.

and THAT is the transformation.

in my lifetime i have been guilty of racism. and there was not one ounce of guilt in my choice.

Canadians were electrified when Barack Obama won the U.S. presidency. Water cooler discussions today were revolving around the fact that "A New Hope" has been given to the world and many of the people in our office were saying that it feels like a veil has been lifted. May we may finally have peace and be released from underneath the darkness that the Bush administration has imposed upon the world? This consensus was generated from your best friends to the North...........imagine what the rest of the world thinks! Congratulations on choosing a president that will truly change the world!
Greg

Affirmative Action is for MANY more than just the [13% of the population] blacks of the United States: Native Americans and all of the other ethnic minorities; religious minorities; the handicapped or physically/mentally challenged; women! - yes!; hearing imparied; blind or visually impaired; and gender and sexual preferences/orientations; and - those who are obese or overweight, scarred, disfigured, whatever. Take away the influence of Affirmative Action and just see what would happen in the way of non-protection.

No. His win was big, but there is still more work on the road ahead. The South is still the South. McCain won in most of the southern states. This indicates that not much has changed in the South. If you take away affirmative action, so many talented and educated minorities will more openly be overlooked for positions. In the South, you must know someone or be of a certain race in order to land a career in your field of study. Otherwise you may have to push for 200 years and go through 43 presidents before you are accepted and enabled to show your competence and capabilities.

Nicole, GA

Affirmative Action should not be ended simply because of one instance of victory with Barack Obama as President . Obama's Presidency changes nothing for minorities across America unless employers and those in the majority are willing to change as well. For example, there will still be instances where skin color or gender comes before credentials in a job interview. Barack Obama is change, but we still have to think rationally. Should Afirmative Action be ended, NO.

As an African American, I don't want to given anything that I have not earned, but on the other hand, I don't want to be at a disadvantage because of the color of my skin or some other subjective criteria.

As long as there is not a level playing field, I feel that there should be some sort of affirmative action program. Unfortunately, regardless of the best efforts of those who say the playing field is level, we still have a long way to go. The "watch dog" for equal opportunity for all Americans is affirmative action.

just because obama is our next president doesn't mean that the odds should not be made even for the minority population in this country. affirmative action just makes the playing field even for EVERYONE.

The affirmative action plan is a policy which provides oppurtunities for all of the different types of people in the United States of America. It provides resources such as: jobs and education to our economy. I think that it is necessary that we keep this plan in order to provide these types of oppurtunities for the American people.

It is time to evaluate affirmative action. To truely "overcome" society needs to be able to look beyond color on their own without the implications of breaking the law. It needs to become a natrual part of our culture.

We have an economy where business that want to succeed need to hire the most qualified candidate and we have elected an african american president. Both of these facts indicate we are on the road to move beyond equal rights mandated by law and toward equal rights as part of our culture.

I truly congratulate President Elect Mr. Obama and I can see how this election is not only historic for USA but for the entire world. My father-in-law called me from Pakistan while Mr. Obama was giving his victory speech, and mentioned that people on the streets were chanting by watching it on TV and celebrating Obama's victory in a manner that it was their own President.

This can tell that how foreigners feel about Bush Administration, Republican politics that divides not only Americans but the rest of the world. And now they look at America on a new direction.

96 percent of African-Americans voted for Barack Obama, is that not racism. If 96 percent of white people voted for McCain everyone knows that would be classified as racism. Why is there a double standard?

I am estatic that Obama is now President-Elect. We now dare to hope that we can have a better America and know that our dreams are not in vain. God bless him and his family too.

Three cheers for Barack Obama and to the American people for electing him! With racism and sexism on their way out, it must mean that poverty can't be far behind. The U.S. has shameful rates of poverty, including the highest child poverty rates in the industrialized world. President-elect Obama has a good shot at making the U.S. a civilized society for the rest of the world to model.

Affirmative Action should not end. It is not only for African Americans, It is also for women and other minorities. Although, many people believe that hard work and perseverance is all you need...but it is also up to the person who is doing the hiring, accepting etc. I don't believe any person who may benefited from Affirmative Action works any less hard at his or her job. In fact I wonder how many people actually know that they have benefitted from Affirmative Action. They just do the job or pass the class hire for or accepted into.

Being from the virgin islands, and lived in the usa for some time, i thing it should continue. There are still places out there that Affirmative Action is needed. This election shows that we are still divided, but we are together more than ever. We are british, but use the US$, so whatever happens in the US will affect us greatly.

America is only two generations removed from the fight for Civil Rights. To suggest that the election of Barack Obama should mean an end to affirmative action is to deny almost 200 years of history.While this indeed historic I look forward to the day when both the President and Vice-President can be black or hispanic or Asian. Another test will be how obstructionist the Senate Republicans will be in allowing the Democrats to enact thier platform.

The Affirmative Actions Plan must not end. Just because President elect Obama is an African American man who is going to be our president does not mean that racial discrimination will stop. We are still a Nation of people where it's not only about what you know, but it's who you know moreso. This is not just a plan to help African Americans, but all minorities, and working women as well.

Larry I think the real question we should be asking is, " Is Racism Still Evident in the World Today ?"

We must remember there is a difference between Racial Discrimination, and Discrimination. Either way, we must keep the Affirmative Actions plan available.

Joshua Stewart (18) of New Castle, Pa

I don't think Affirmative Action should end, because the employers still look at the color of someones skin, which causes very capable and educated people to not receive jobs in America.

Hi Larry

I was very happy to see Obama as President of USA as I come from land of Democracy – India where I read about our leader Mahatam Gandhi who did had same of ideologies and so we call him Father of Nation that was a history subject to be but never imagined someone will back again the same way. I would love to call him another Mahatma Gandhi is his views and power of promise I think most Indians will agree on this. Please show this blog I want reach as much as I can

thanks

meena

As a white American man married to a black west indian woman, we were particularly interested in Barrack Obama's quest for the White House and what it means not just for America but for people all over the world. This election, and the hope and promise that it represents, crosses all borders and all people. In a world of hate and turmoil and war and the threat of economic disaster, we honestly feel that a "President Obama" is a beacon of hope. We wish him and his family the best. "Yes we can".... and yes we did

The important point about Obama's success that separates him from the average employee needing a job or the average student seeking college admission is his 130-140 IQ. Those numbers alone gained him entry into a world that many White students have difficulty gaining entry into. He no doubt did well on testing, academics and grades as a result of his high intellect. Moreover, he probably used "Barry" instead of Barack (as I use Charlie instead of Charlesette) to avoid being outed early as a person of color. Once there he was able to create a place for himself that led him to his present place of power. Your average "Bob"(who is in a wheelchair), "Sue" or "Shaquita" might need affirmative action to help them get into their job/school of choice because there are many, who would still be stuck on their differences instead of impressed by their resumes. Many who might feel it necessary to "protect" their place of employment or school from someone who is qualified but "just not right" for the position.

Affirmative Action should not end. The election of Borack Obama has exposed the hidden rascism that still exist in the hearts of many. If half of America believes the man should not be president because he is black they are probably also capable of witholding possibilities for other people of color because of fears that they may excel. The refusal of allowing people of color to vote many years ago was because of fear...fear that something like this could happen. No longer are people able to openly reign with their prejudices so instead they find creative ways to limit the possibilities of those they fear. Affirmitive Action protects people of color from these offenses.

Larry,

Thanks for having Pat Robertson on. I was not a fan of Mr. Robertson, but I got to see another side of him tonight. It is amazing what can happen if you educate your mind about people who are different from you.

I'm from Nebraska and yesterday Initiative 424, baning affirmative action, was passed by the right wing and confused voters of this state. Confused? The language on the ballot read rather confusing and I think those against the ban (myself included) dropped the ball on promoting the need to vote against it. I never believed it would actually pass!

I do not believe we can end affirmative action. We'll always have people that discriminate because they're scared of something different than they are. We need it now more than ever.

Affirmative action should continue if administered in the manner it was intended. If the purpose however is mis-used and misinterpreted, then it should be discontinued.

Why is everyone ignoring the fact that Obama is WHITE!!!!!!!

I witnessed the joy and relief on the face of a young woman that was cheering that we now have a "Bi-Racial" President. I was excited for her, especially to realize that she was becoming a "real" person and not a second class citizen because she wasn't a "purebred".

OBAMA ... please recognize your whiteness! Now that you have won the race to the Presidency and won the African American vote, please correct the facts to reflect that you are the first "bi-racial, mixed racial" American, to become President. Stand up and be proud of ALL of you, not just half of you. Give power to the people that are ashamed of being mixed because a majority of society looks down on mixed races . By taking that step, it would be a very big step in uniting the Blacks and the Whites. Unity for mankind no matter what color we are. We are all Easter Eggs that have been dyed; remove the different colored shell and we are all the same on the inside ... all God's Kids!

Obama's win is without a doubt historic, but it does not necessitate or justify ending affirmative action!

I am an educated, hard-working African American female. I have been passed over for promotions I deserved, and denied employment opportunities that I was well qualified for. If we have the experience and not the education we are told that we need a degree. If we have a degree we are told that we don't have the "right experience", and if we dare to have both, we are often told that we are overqualified. I currently hold a decent job that I love, but my pay is low.

Some will continue to make hiring decisions based on factors other than merit, and/or pay us less than we are worth. Obama's win will not change this.

I believe America is a little less divided than we were, but we still have more work to do. Racism is not going anywhere anytime soon.

We think that the world need to stop obsessing over this thing called "race". Race is a man-made concept. There is absolutely no biological basis behind the idea of race. All humans share over 99.9% of the same DNA. Maybe if we stop focusing on this man-made idea, we can get to the real issues. Affirmative Action is unneccesary because it is completely based on something that is not real. If we stop Affirmative Action, perhaps we can finally stop talking about "race".

Last night America has set itself as a role model to the rest of the world as the most popular democratic country leading the world in war and peace. It is our turn to support Barack Obama to fulfill his promises and not put him to test to watch fun.

I may be ignorant to the full spectrum of this, but I don't feel Affirmative Action is neccessary and should end. Yes, I believe it has helped many minorities(, who are now a growing majority )reach key points of success. But I believe by far it is fair to believe and reach for the reality of Dr. King's dream of us being judged by the content of our character. As we can see with President-Elect Obama, such a dream can be a plausible reality for America. I feel the potential of America is much greater when leadership and comradery is weighed by individual character.

What I saw on television last night was people of all races supporting President-elect Obama. America is a melting pot of people of all races, ethnicity, and religion. The promise of America is yet to be realized. Hopefully in my children's or grandchildren's generation, we will have moved closer to that promise.

I am a christian, and I respect people whose faith may differ from mine. How can we live in a country that calls a man a Muslim with such negative connotations and say that we are ready to do away with affirmative action? Here's a newsflash – not all Muslims are terrorists and not all terrorists are Muslims!

Pam Treadwell, unfortunately, we live in a country where if a man is 99% white and 1% black .... he's considered black. It is disappointing that in these times we still refer to people by the color of their skin or in terms of their race. But this again is proof that we are not where we should be as a country, and until we get there, we must have mechanisms in place to protect those who would face the injustices of discrimination otherwise.

Hopeful Canadian!

The day that women, visible minorities and the disabled are regarded in society as equals and compensated in business as equals will be the day that affirmative action can be discussed as an obsolete process.

Hello Mr. Larry King, My name is Jorge Quinones and I am a Loss Mitigation Foreclosure Field Counselor for The Helping Hands Foundation doing our part to help with the foreclosure issue, "one hand at a time". I am a Latin man that comes from a military family, father of 2 beautiful children that I Love with all My Heart. I must say that being part of this movement in history ranks up there with watching my children being born. I mean knowing all that has transpired throughout our time getting to this day that Americans can come together and move towards change of a nation and cast a simple vote for a man that we all believe will be our leader into a new direction of Peace, Love and Tranquility and aid in all our Prosperity into a truley unified nation under god and moving forwarded into a new world order for all nations to follow. And to cast that simple vote for me was truely motivating as I rode a mountain bike 3 miles to cast my vote for change participating in Obama's cruisade. I want to add this finally message. I am and feel proud to be an American today. Watching all the stations of not only our country celebrating like it was new years eve was life transpiring. The world was one and this is what we all in celebration are feeling.

As we watched our noble, courageous new President-elect, Barack Obama giving his inspiring speech, he ended with "God bless the United States of America." America, we need to pray "Please God, bless him. And guide him as he leads us forward."

Having grown up in the south and having seen the discrimination against African-Americans first hand I want to stress to everyone that the reason President-elect Obama and our first lady Michelle Obama were able to accomplish what they have accomplished is because of the affirmative action laws that forced people to do that which they did not necessarily want to do. Removing the laws would set the movement that made him who he is back into a time that I remember to well and do not want to repeat. I am a 47 year old white woman who does not want to take even one baby step backward. Take a good look at that Big CNN map. See all that red in the south. I can tell you that a huge percentage of the people that voted for McCain in Alabama and Mississippi did so because he was white not because he was a republican. Many of my own relatives decided not to vote at all because they did not like McCain but would not vote for Obama because of his race. I don't agree with them but I want everyone to know that racism is still alive and well in the south. Removing the affirmative action laws would unleash the beast that we have caged.

Affirmative action-

Yes it's necessary. Women don't earn equal pay and neither do the other minorities.

Austin,
Because 96% of the white people's ancestors were not forced to live here under slavery, treated subsequently as second class citizens, not allowed to vote, tortured and killed by hate groups, denied protection under the law, you know the story.
Would you vote for me if I broke both your legs and then challenged you to a race? or would you vote for your brother who suffered the same fate?
There could be no double standard if one of the two parties did not meet the criteria of being 'standard' to begin with.

Dear Larry: It is truly a great day for America to have a man like Barack Obama selected as the next president of the United States. I wish that my parents were here to witness this outstanding event. I remember as a child that my mother used to take me along with my siblings south to her home in Alabama. We would spend the entire summer there. We would ride on the train and at other times my father would drive. During the times when we went by car, at night he would pull along side of the road to sleep and he would tell my mother to lock the doors and keep an eye on the surroundings. We could not go to a hotel because they were segregated. I remember the "whites only" signs at the restaurants. As soon as we crossed the line to the south my father would say to every white man he met "yes sir, no sir and never look up at them. I was about 10 years old. However, I have never forgotten these experiences. I wish that my parents were here to see this great achievement of Barack Obama. They would certainly be very proud of this time in our history. I truly believe that President-Elect Barack Obama is the right man at the right time to help America through these challenging times. Eva M. Doyle

Vickybell,

Didn't you hear that Obama is caucasin????

No I do not think Affirmative Action can or should be abolished. The first myth that some on this blog have listened to and absorbed is that AA is designed for the Black. That is only one of the many folks that are assisted or hindered (depending on your personal perspectives of results of AA) . Affirmative Action in America is designed for monorities of all kinds, not just Blacks, it is designed to help Women of all races, it is designed to help and protect people with Special Needs , and whether people like it or not it even is designed to help White males over 50. So Blacks have no stranglehold or prejorative deciding factor on it at all. And messing with it will cost re-elections for any level.

On his last Meet The Press hosting, Tim Russert played a taped interview by the late Sen. Robert F. Kennedy allegedly taped during 1968 where Kennedy made the comment that he thought that in 40 years this nation would be ready for an African American President.
How this has come true exactly to Kennedys prediction is incredible.
It would be poignant if this segment could be replayed for all to hear.
I think he will do his best for our country and be true to his cause

I heard what Bill Murray said on your show tonight about how can mccain call President Barrak all these names and then say such wonderful things about him in his closing as he clearly lost ..Which made me think about Jesse jackson and all the hateful things he said about President Barrack and then on your show tonight the fake comments of gradtitude to The new president Barrack, maybe the reason he was crying was because he was jelous that he was not the First Black President....Barrack this is your Season God Bless You- You did it ,what God has For You is for you . I wish you well.......

It's like gaining clean air and ending regulation of pollution–that's how it got clean. Electing Barack Obama as the next president is a result of mandatory equal rights since 1965; now we need to see women with equal rights. Americans can be stubborn and return to old ways.

Let us define Affrmative Action:
Affirmative action in the United States is intended to promote access to education, employment, or housing among certain designated groups (typically, minorities or women). The stated motivation for affirmative action policies is to redress the effects of past discrimination and to encourage public institutions such as universities, hospitals and police forces to be more representative of the population.

This is my belief the intentions to promote access to education, employment, or housing among certain designated groups.. has not been put into place currently. These attributes of the definitions may have worked for some people. I am an black woman who has weathered the storm and have not been giving NOTHING that I dd not earn on my own. I am not a believer in affirmative action however, I will not rule it out for those who feel that it will assist them in their efforts.

Opportunities are afforded to those who have the energy to not let a nation dictate was should be given to them because they are a minority. Aren't we all HUMAN BEINGS, so why should any one person have a border on what is DUE TO THEM?

I am a woman of mixed race, I grew up as a minority in my school, in my town, and I've never asked for special treatment. I have never made my skin color a factor, and in return it has never been a factor. My father grew up with segregation. There was a need for affirmative action for a time, but he never asked for special treatment either. He's a successful man. I am successful, educated. I work in a job, that is mostly men. I'm respected in my job, because I do my job as well as anyone else there. People don't treat me differently. the women in my job who aren't respected are those that don't perform. My point is merit should stand for something. And also the more a person sets themself apart the more they will be set apart.

Pam Treadwell: President Elect Obama has never ran his campaign as a "BLACK MAN". He has always recoginized his mother and his grandparents. His fight for Healthcare is all about his love for his mother. He stopped his campaign to go visit his dying grandmother. His father not being in his life made him a stronger MAN and a loving husband and father. First Lady Elect Michelle Obama is a STRONG BLACK WOMAN that is backing her husband. What do you mean by saying "she has to do better than that"?

I am unfortunately not surprised that Obama's victory is already being used against African Americans. Honestly. Does the success of a few African Americans mean racism does not exist? How easily we forget the recent white supremacist plot to assasinate President Elect Obama. I was appalled at the number of Democrats who told me they were voting for McCain only because they would never vote for a black man. There are plenty of people–from the bluest of blue collar workers to the highest-paid corporate executives who actively avoid hiring minority individuals based exclusively on skin color.

Perhaps we can view Obama's success as evidence that Affirmative Action WORKS. Perhaps, on the other hand, we can look at the ridiculous amount of time it has taken for this country to elect a minority president and conclude that Affirmative Action does not work well enough.

But come on people. Until the proportion of African Americans in elected offices actually matches the proportion of African Americans in the general population Affirmative Action has not done its job.

The other important mandate of affirmative action is that you do not give an under-qualified woman or minority preference over a qualified white male. That would only breed unfairness and discontent. The mandate is this: all else being equal, then and only then do you give preference to the women or the minorities. This is very important, but it has not always been followed. When you put someone underqualified in such a position to fail,then affirmative action will also fail. Let's keep it going, but make sure that we are doing right.

It took us centuries to shape our racist views and prejudice, and it is nothing short of ridiculous to believe that the election of an African American president can change this overnight. People will not change overnight on either side. Affirmative Action is and will continue to be necessary for years to come.

“You do not take a man who for years has been hobbled by chains, liberate him, bring him to the starting line of a race, saying, 'you are free to compete with all the others,' and still justly believe you have been completely fair . . . .�

President Lyndon B. Johnson

Affirmative Action should definitely be kept in place. I totally agree that racial discrimination still rears its ugly head when it comes to hiring practices in our country. Affirmative Action is a definite safeguard against unethical hiring practices for people of ALL races, creeds and colors. I wish it were not so, but having an African American president is not going to erase racial discrimination by any stretch of the imagination, not until and unless the hearts and minds of some of the citizens of this country take a dramatic turn in the direction of truth – the truth that we are in fact all created equal and as such, ALL citizens, not just SOME, are endowed with certain unalienable rights.

If there ever was a time more appropriate to continue the practice of affirmative action, it is now. Who knows what great minds are being spawned in the African American communities just waiting to be nurtured and to develop into the geniuses of tomorrow? Many young Blacks will never have the opportunity to enter the competitive, organized, and principled settings that are conducive to training and intellectual growth unless they are accepted below standard. This is an investment in our future that all individuals are given a chance to learn well. By committing more tutors, mentors, and remedial classes to assist young minorities, we will certainly help close their gap in knowledge and performance. In my view, only excellence can make affirmative action unnecessary, not a new president.

"It's like we can do anything"Really? Did it take this election for you to realize that? That saddens me. Because I have always believed that. I am a woman of mixed race, I grew up as a very very small minority in my school, in my town, and I've never asked for special treatment. I have never made my skin color a factor, and in return it has never been a factor. My father grew up with segregation. There was a need for affirmative action for a time, but he never asked for special treatment either. He's a successful man. I am successful, educated. I work in a job, that is mostly men. I'm respected in my job, because I do my job as well as anyone else there. People don't treat me differently. the women in my job who aren't respected are those that don't perform. My point is merit should stand for something. And also the more a person sets themself apart the more they will be set apart.

Pietro Sirianni,
Very good point, but nobody alive today enslaved African Americans. The only reason race is a issue now is because the media makes it an issue.

As a Canadian looking on,my heart melted the tears flowed down my face like a river without an end,knowing next time I cross the US boader I feel free, free to know that a new president not only new but a black man,something I tought will never happen in my lifetime or my childrens,children life time. I work for the city of Toronto driving the city bus.This morning I never felt so proud to see people comming onto my bus smileing and happy saying to me we did it, we live to see a black president. I got a txt saying They didn't want to give us 40 acers and a mule,but we took 50 states and a white house.

Certainly not Larry, if it were not for Affirmative Action I do not think Obama would be where he is right now. Most of White America does not understand what it fells like to be deprived for generations or just plain naive to see that it really works! Hell, it may even get worse now! Affirmative Action should end when proverty in america ends, and Urban schools are brought to the same standards as suburban american schools.

The majority of whites fear afirmative action in fear that they would be
at a disadvantage when it comes to jobs. When the Republican took
over the Presidency Affirmative Action was abolished.In its' place was the Good Ole Boy system which only employed friends and family , all whites.

There are those who are very pensive that this wonderful man, President Elect Barack Obama, is the one who will be sworn into office as the 44th President of the United States to take us into a very positive future, thus making liars out of
Rush Limbaugh, Shaun Hannity, That weirdo Ann Coulter, and all of the others who questioned things that I never , ever heard of someone questioning about any prospective president-elect, candidate, or one who as so much as even aspired to be president for that matter;
Then it dawned on me,....these aforementioned people, with their unorthodox and just plain weird views and opinions,.....actually have helped, to a degree to get Barack Obama elected.
Rush Limbaugh actually must be getting the information he spews over the airwaves out of his ass; Thank God that no one wants anything out of Rush Limbaugh's ass.
Shaun Hannity is a coward, because he is not man enough to admit being a racist and a bigot, using variances and loopholes and half truths and rhettoric about anything he can get his hands on to "spin"
to the American People; We finally sent the message!
(With) the last count of 338 Total electoral votes going to Barack Obama, then, Yes! We can,..... All of us, without the partisan crap, can actually help to keep this country the best place in the world to live,.......you know, where everyone wants to come and live,.....including the square head, Governor Arnold......
I feel very strongly in that they are all Government compensated / paid propagandists, taking advantage of free speech to spit all the crap they do. Again, The American People were unfazed, except for a minute number of Rednecks in the dark pockets of this country and a few uneducated crackers who have not a clue to ever get along with anyone!

There! You Got it, cause I said it......all we have to do now is Protect Barack Obama, and let him Lead this country back,... as a counter measure to President Bush and Vice President Cheney and their cronies stealing and robbing the Fed Blind, While claiming and siting national security. I refuse to be fooled, and at this point I am wondering as to whether they felt it was worth it....going down in history as possibly the worst president in history in lieu of the billions of Dollars they took.....LEGALLY, because of the positions of their offices they held.
Dick Cheney is Cold and personality challenged, and George W Bush is just an Ignorant frat boy, being led by the the nose by Haliburton and Big Corporations (yeah, Capitalize both).

I am an African America who started campaigning 2 years ago for Obama. I supported Obama because of his intellect and because I feel that he is genuine.

CNN, why are you making Obama's victory a BLACK THING? .
It goes without saying that African Americans are proud

To have Jessie Jackson and John Lewis on Larry King is a mockery of African Americans.

Black-on-Black criticism? NO! This is about accountability. Somebody help me if my perception is wrong-but did Jessie Jackson do anything to help Obama or did he show how envious he is that he didn't stand a ghost of a chance of being President. Was he envious that in his life time he was not the only African American to run and even become President?

John Lewis had to be persuaded by his constituents to support Obama over Hiliary Clinton. You would think that a man who experienced the civil rights movement and who was beaten the way he was would not let politics stand in the way of good judgement. Obama is deserving of being President of the US because of his brilliance not because he is African American. If any African American, especially Sheila Jackson Lee, could not see how qualified Obama is, they should have voted for him for the wrong reason and that is because he is African American so they could have a reason to be proud. This is a NO BRAINER.

CNN, get real. Talk about OBAMA because of his accomplishments and get Jessie and John Lewis and any other short-sighted African American off the air.

Does no one else but me notice any thing worrying about all this?

Can no one see the similarities between obamas' election and the writings in revelations about the anti christ?

No, affirmative action should not end ... I liken race relations in America to that of a deep gash that is mended with stitches. Although the stitches are there, the gash has not healed. Black Americans have endured well over 300 years of racism – direct and institutional. There is no way that approximately 40 years of affirmative action can level the playing field for a group that has suffered centuries of institutional racism.

Should affirmative action be reexamined? Of course. Just as with all policies we should examine what has worked, what has not worked, and how the policy can be improved. Its continued existence should not be on the table for discussion.

When should we visit the issue of continuing affirmative action policies? Once every public school is equally funded so that ALL children have the opportunity to receive a quality education and this change has been implemented for a period of time, then maybe the issue of continuing affirmative action can be discussed. So long as our education system is skewed, the need for affirmative action and policies similar to it will be necessary to attempt to "level" the playing field.

From where I stand now to the very moment Barack got through with his speech,I still have tears in my eyes.Its real! Larry I am 26years old.You wouldn't believe that I spent 15years of my life figuring out the Kings'dream and the possibility thereafter.Today if I should die,I hold this truth to my generation that I live to see the dream come true.I am so greatful to God almighty to see today.
Larry read this"my four little children will not be judge by the colour of their skin rather by the content of their character" Dr.Kings four little children I am happy to see today! Barack,his wife and kids.
There are more to this revelation and thank God that I am here today.

If anything this election better examples WHITE PRIVILEGE than affirmative action. That Obama was able to reach the Whit House is no doubt a manifestation of America's will to level the playing field.

However, the fact that a black man had to achieve such a tremendous degree of personal excellence (Barack) to compete with average (McCain) or mediocre (Bush) to take the same station in life is strong evidence that affirmative action is need still to combat white privilege.

Still, no policy can offer what the character an face of the our new president will to the ziet giest of America.

I am over come with joy.

Has America forgotten about Palin almost making history? What about all the women who could not vote? Women could not work in the corporate world; they had to stay home and care for their family. Some were abused by their husbands and had to stay in their situation because they could not work! It's a shame to watch the media not mention this fact; especially all the women reporters who are reporting on Obama making history. Have the women reporters forgot about empowering other women?

Affirmative Action was drafted for those who we know would not get that fair opportunity to be more than just average or living pay check to check. It is not just about your color but gender,relg,sexual orientation,age,disable and much more. Our Nation has not been cured of it's past association of discrimination because of the fact a New President has been elected who happens to be black. By the way in 30 years the majority will be the Minority!!!!! Will it be needed then, so yes it should stay so HISTORY want be REVERSED for the now Majority.

Affirmitive Action is still necessary because not only does it add up to a small percentage that must be set aside, but regardless of how far we have come, we still was given an extremly late start.
There are still people that fear us as well as hate us. On your show a white lady called in and said she was afraid to vote for Obama because he would futher our agenda ,Agenda? What agenda? Equality,respect,fairness?
Most companies are white owned,Most human resource dept of co. are white controlled. Yes we have a black president,yes we have come far, but when I look back I can still see fire hoses being turned on us and dogs set loose on us, look what just happened in New Orleans, with Katrina, look what just happened with those 6 boys, so yes we have come far but is it equal yet no,is the justice system fair yet? No, so until its fair across the board we still need all the help we can get. Colleges aren't fair, hiring practices still aren't fair.

And yes affirmative action needs to be continued.

Until we can illuminate racial prejudice from employment opportunities etc, Affirmative Action is still necessary. I'm sure there are quite a number of educated and qualified African Americans – Just like PE Obama – that are being discriminate because of the color of their skin.

One thing this election reminds us, is that racism is not dead. Until that happens, I' afraid Affirmative Action might be still necessary. We are not there yet !

Hey Larry i just wanted to know who Anderson Cooper voted for...I don't know if i was the only one who noticed that, but he seemed very angry last night when Senator Obama was elected.....

November 4, 2008, is truly a remarkable day in the history of the United States. America demonstrated yesterday that we as a Nation have grown. The election of President-elect Barack Obama does not, however, erase the vestiges of 221 years of suppression and racism, which has resulted in an imbalance African Americans holding policymaking positions in the boardroom. I am employed by the federal government, which should be the leader in equality. However, in my organization, of over 6,500 employees, there are no African American women in senior executive service where policy decisions and hiring decisions for the highest level positions are made. Until we have equality in the boardroom, affirmative action is necessary to continue the quest for equal opportunity. The actors who make the high level decisions must also change, if we are to move closer to becoming a more perfect union. Affirmative Action must stand until equality has been reached.

What were you thinking to have the most far left members of the democratic party on right after the elections. Bill, Michael, and Jessie are to the Republicans what Bill O'Riley, Ann Coulter, and Rush are to Democrats. Obama is trying for a centerist position and as a president for everyone. Pulling this should give the Republicans reason to assume we are no better than they were. None of these people have anything to do with Obama as president ; they simply make for ratings. Why didn't you get the Rev. Wright on as well? CNN will have people against Obama before he takes office. Get some nomal Democrats on the show when you have these guys and show us as the well rounded party we really are.

Last evening was a great moment in American's history. We reached another plateau in realizing the creed and principles of democracy. It was a victory for all Americans, Blacks, Whites, Browns, Yellows, and Reds. Perhaps one day the barriers between us will be removed and race will not be an issue. I believe President Elect Obama will promote and exemplify that goal.
However, there is still much work to be done. I note that he did not get the vote of the majority White male and White female votes; small town middle class Whites. It is obvious, race is a factor to that group. There have to be some changes in racial attitude before this group will embrace Obama. I believe that by the end of his term he will have won over many of those in that camp. They will realize that they don't have to carry a false attitude of "I'm – better-than-any non Whites" to be secure.
We saw a change starting in the 50's and by the 90's we were glad that such a change took place. I don't think we want to go back to the days of "Jim Crow" and terrorism by the KKK. Now we need to take this struggle (Justice and equal opportunity) to a higher level so that we can attain a quality of life for all of our people so that we can reach out to the world and give hope. It all starts here at home. Racism needs to be eradicated in the USA, and yes we can.
E. Rogers

Affirmative action is very much needed in the work place. It is a conscience booster, a reality checker, a score marker of what the true reality is. Yes we have come a long way but we have a long way to go. Prejudice remains in the work place, and often the struggle is in your face. Unless you are the little man moving thru the day to day struggles of work place politics you really couldn't understand. We must keep the reminder of the struggle in the forefront to prevent the country from falling backwards. Please remember that the baby boomers with prejudices and personal biases are still in place and until that generation moves out of the the work place, discrimination will remain prevelant.

I think affermative action was put in place because of the hundreds of years of slavery that blacks had to indure. So a law was written to give special catch up rights as a sort of compansation to blacks. With the sudden election of Borack things aren't going to change over night. Years of mental slavery will take years to undo. Change comes about gradually and so should affermative action.

Jeez, kill it with the racists stuff. How many people voted for Obama just cause he's black? I'm from Kentucky, and honestly I have met just as many racist black people as white. And come on Americans, Obama is half-white, so why do you keep calling him black? And your not an African-American unless your an native African that moved to America. So if you we're born in the United States, that makes you a black American.

Its sad when you hear people say that they didn't vote for Obama because he is black, when the truth of the matter is that it was the case for the majority of the African American votes.

You know, this is not going to change race relations at all, in fact it has already made it worse. The election was proof of it. If anyone has the TV station “TVOne� just the way they gloated over the fact that he was African American and how he was going to change the United States, that was enough to show that it was all about race. I understand that it is a milestone in History for African Americans, and it is long deserved; However, all other issues moral and economical were not considered and just thrown out the window. Who is acting racist now?

I am Hispanic, and a Christian with strong moral views and I didn’t think either presidential nominee was the right choice; however when you weigh the differences between the two, for me, McCain was the better choice.

If you claim you are a Christian then you do not support Obama’s beliefs in Abortion, same sex marriage etc. But because he is black those no longer became an issue.

All those who are minority, including me, be careful what you ask for. You might not like what you get.

So to answer the question Affirmative Action should stay, since we have damaged the race line with our actions in this election. And like the previous commenter we will need it later when the majority becomes the minority.

Austin,
Yes the media loves a good story. And my ancestors were not here until the 20th century. But still you can not deny the impact of those events on a people. People join together when they suffer together and it becomes a part of the groups collective memory. Would you ever blame a Jewish American for not voting for a Neo-Nazi party? The analogy is extreme I admit but it drives home the point. Time and this election will help heal those wounds and someday race will not even be a thought much less an issue.

Pam Treadwell, Obviously you have not been paying attention to how much credit Obama gave to his grandmother. He repeatedly acknowledged her and everything she did for him. He is African-American even if he was raised by his white family. You don't stop being an African-American just because you are raised by a white person. Forensics can take a skeleton and tell you the race of the person based on DNA testing. Being an African- American means that he is of African descent and is currently living in America. The fact that he is biracial does not negate his African heritage. I am a descendant of French Huguenots and Dutch Reformers but that does not negate my Cherokee and Iroquois Heritage. All of this is divisive and unnecessary. He chooses to identify with his African- American heritage. One of my sons chooses to identify as a Native American whereas the majority of my family chooses to identify as Caucasian. His choice does not negate his Dutch and French ancestry. How he identifies himself is his choice and not something that any other person has the right to decide for him.

When you go to work tomorrow – assuming you still have a job – look to your left and right (that's your physical left and right, not your political one). What do you see? Probably not a Black Man in charge of you. If you can count to 7, you now know the number of Black CEOs of Fortune 500 Companies in the 53 year history of that listing.

So to think that Affirmative Action needs to end is ridiculous. One of the only places you can witness the actual numbers of minorities to include their pay grades is the government. That is mandated, along with contract awards and such.

When companies talk about how they "value diversity" or "we welcome employment candidates of color", one must wonder what the actual numbers are. If a company displays numbers of minorities in their statistics, why not include; length of employment, salary in comparison to non-minorities, number of direct reports per minority employee, and length of time in management roles compared to non-minority counterparts.

The fact remains that the Barack Obama win is indeed symbolic,however, much work must be done to bridge the racial gap. Some qualified person on your job has the skills and ability to get promoted, yet is often overlooked. People do not run for office at work. The ambitious minority does not have millions of dollars to campaign for a position. Many are invited, but few are truly welcomed. Companies continue to recruit deeply and selectively from non-minority schools. Some degree of leveling the playing field must be kept in the program.

Interesting that Nebraska passed a ban on Affirmative Action last night that mirror bans from the states of California, Michigan, and Washington. Colorado may follow suit. Makes one wonder what opportunities will be available to the vast number of minority athletes in those states once their sports careers end.

Affirmative Action holds companies and other entities accountable. It gets you in the door, but your performance keeps you there. The level of performance can be marked by numerous obstacles to success for minorities.

We're just now seeing unprecedented appearances by Blacks on television. Where were these faces prior to Obama's win? Now is the time to continue the dialogue on race. You can't solve or move closer to understanding without walking in someone else's shoes.

We need to learn how to understand each other and eliminating Affirmative Action is a step backwards.

Thanks for continuing the discussion Larry! Thank you for providing a forum for faces that typically show up in negative news stories or not at all. Your guest selections prior to the Obama victory did not go unnoticed!

This is something that cannot come to a end there will always be people that just want get it but I would like to say that the world some how needs to relize and pay respects to what this election has really done and that was free alot of forgotten souls.

I find something almost prophetic about President elect Barack Obama. There seems to be a strong message here about a young African-American man with such charmisma, brilliance and compassion coming along at a time when our beautiful country is so troubled. He has been embraced by the majority of the people in a way that almost seems magical. Barack "the rock" a man for all people everywhere in the world. God Bless him, Michelle, Sasha and Malia.

I keep hearing that this is the first black man elected President. Has everyone forgotten that he's as much white as he is black?

J very good point about BET. Everyone knows if there was a White entertainment television channel that everyone would throw a fit.

With regard to Affirmative Action to education, it is well founded that spending per pupil is lower for areas where there is a higher concentration of minorities. I encourage all to look that up and study it closely. Equal access to education helps level the playing field and makes the removal of Affirmative Action more likely.

I have not cried because I have not had time to reflect on the enormity of the moment. I am humble, grateful and relieved. I began this journey in January with a call from the OBAMA Campaign in Green Bay Wisconsin and ended it last night in Tampa Florida. There have been many "aha moments" along the way. The reception I received a University of Wisconsin La Crosse when the workers and students thought I was a campaign insider. The enthusiasm of those young people who had never voted and signed up to work on the campaign, Governor Doyle's personal endorsement of Barrack Obama as the most transformational candidate since JFK. Traveling with a young white school teacher and middle aged white Sunday school teacher to Eau Claire Wisconsin in the dead of winter to stand outside for two hour to hear a politician speak. The inspiration of seeing old white men camped out in twenty degree weather for six hour wearing their Ice Fishing Gear to get a glimpse of HOPE. They young workers providing a new ground force like no other. Then I moved to Florida and had an opportunity to help recruit an Army of legal workers and poll worker to counteract the last two election debacles. Governor Doyle summed it up best: "Everywhere that Barrack Obama has been able to get his people on the ground...has resulted in a landslide victory. Congratulations President Elect Obama...Congratulations to all who worked so long, hard, and diligently. Your faith has been vindicated.

Too Tired to Cry

obama will not be a good president. he is making promises that will not be fulfilled. he cannot tax the rich to the extreme he is saying. he is proposing that there will be around a fifty percent tax on all income over $250,000 this will not work. our country needs wealthy people who also give others an oprotunity to be wealthy. if you "spread the wealth" the rich will not have the money to be spending just think about it. many buisnesses will crash. none of the upper class will have the extra money to spend airlines, hotels, resturants, sporting events all buisnesses there extra money is poured into will go bankrupt if there is no one to put money into them. this will also raise unemployment think of how many jobs will be lost. and why should poor people and bums be able to get a hand out from the people that work hard in this country to make their money and get where they are. why should the guy that has done nothing to better himself get money that was hard earned by someone else. and i understand that the middle class may struggle a bit and some people do work hard and still do not get the money they need but you are allowed to make as much money as you want in this country just like you can have as much kids as you want or you can eat as much food as you want or whatever. you get what you earn in this country. and if unemployment and economy is such a big deal look toward our colleges. college is extremely expensive and these professors are getting huge amounts of money. if you lower the cost of college allow those kids who are smart but cannot afford the education it takes to get the job they need to do well and succede then the middle class will not struggle so much and you will not need unevenly tax the wealthy people in this country. the rich will natrually be "not so rich" if everyone can get the education and have the same opprotunities they have.

Also the media is unfair they attack mccain everything he says they twist it and make it sound evil. this is a great man most people know that he served our country for many years and had his plane shot down and ended up bieng a POW for something like five and a half years, whre he was torchered. he was kept in a hot box with no windows or vents, he was beaten reguraly, and they broke many of his bones and this great man would not allow these people to free him untill all the other POW's there were released. he knows war and knows the terror of it he wishes it on no one however he has a brain he notices a problem in iraq. he does not want to immediately pull the troops out of iraq like obama he wants to establish a firm gov. and rid them of al queda. and where was the media when obama said "i am going to bankrupt the oil industry" no one attacked that. the media is bias and unfair.

Finally obama scares me and so doesnt anyone who voted for him. this is a man who followed a priest that hated america he was a major influence in obamas life for twenty years. this man wed obama and hated this country what are you people thinking. all i hear is this "change" all i say is elaborate on this and think deeper like WHAT is going to change. obama cannot just snap his fingers and rid this country of all its problems, just think of what happens after he changes the economy and the taxes and the war think if the consequences.

@ John

76 percent of people on tv are white while 1/3 Americans are minorities. There is an abundance of white people represented in television. The shows that I enjoy most on tv tend to be the shows that offer the most diversity in their acting staff. My husband is Hispanic and hates "women tv" primetime type stuff, but he is crazy about Ugly Betty. I don't think that is a coincidence. Why are people so against diversity in America when the country was founded on it? This is a big part of why the Republicans lost.

I wish the media would get one thing right. Obama is NOT the first African American to become President. He is the first BI-RACIAL american to become President. He is exactly what America represents today; the melting pot! Race means nothing but being an American means everything! GET IT RIGHT AMERICA, PLEASE!!!!!

Girls Think Wisely. A Condom Is ONLY A Dollar, So If He Doesn't Think You're Worth It He Definitely Won't Be A Dad To Your Kids.

When I was in the first grade I sat in front of a black boy. He was the only black boy in the school. The teacher was very much older. I would turn around and talk to the boy all the time. The teacher would tell me to turn around and not talk to him. My mother came to visit the class room one day and picked up on the situation and reported it to the principle. I was not aware that the teacher was telling me that I was not to talk to him because he was black. The young boy was moved to another class room. I was never taught to think of a black person any different then a white person. My father worked for the Department of Labor and worked for equal rights. I now work for a fortune 500 company on Affirmative Action and EEO. I am proud of this as the AAP and EEO helps many individuals. I am very surprised when I hear people express prejudice comments. I don't really understand that concept of this superiority. I believe completely in equal rights.

You get it right. Yes. Barack Obama Is The FIRST African American President.

I am amazed out how passionate people are about bashing Obama!! TRY SHOWING SOME RESPECT...the man is putting the safety of himself and his family on the line for ALL OF US...because of NUT JOBS out there!!
Yesterday...it was like the whole world stood still just to hear him speak...that was an inspiration to us all!!!! It was the boost of the moral that we sooo needed to give us a knee-lift out of a slump...I AM realistic, with tons of common sense...I DON'T have high expectations of him because I know how difficult this situation is..I acknowledge that...BUT HE IS A DAMN GOOD CHEERLEADER WHEN WE ALL HAVE BEEN SOOO DOWN!!!!! HE MAY HAVE DIVIDED SOME...BUT HE UNITED MANY LAST NIGHT!!!!
YOU have a responsabilty and a right as an adult to ask questions, seek answers and research fact and fiction!

Everyone who has something negative to say, thinks they have it all figured out....It's amazing..YOU would think..."WHY DON'T you just run for President then!!!"

Obama didn't create this mess, and good common sense knows it won't be fix at night and it will never be perfect....but he is a darn good cheerleader that is giving us all hope, inspiration and restoring moral in our Country. Show some respect for your country, IF YOu care so much you will all take the time to post these blogs, WHY NOT put your energy towards something positive or in you community!!!!

QUIT WHINING! JUST JOIN THE OBAMA FEVER CELEBRATION!!! IF YOU JUST ARE TOO GOOD FOR THAT WHY DON'T YOU PUT YOUR ENERGY TOWARDS SOMETHING POSITIVE IN YOUR COMMUNITY-IF YOU DON'T ....AND ALL YOU KNOW IS HATE AND NEGATIVITY...I DON'T THINK YOU ARE ANY BETTER THAN THE "TERRORISTS!!"

The people of this country that reach out and do good...with what little they have and what's left running out...DESERVE a President that cares about them!!!!!!!!!

AND THANK GOD WE CAN PUT JOE THE PLUMBER TO REST!!!!!!! JOE THE PLUMBER DIDN'T EVEN HAVE A WIFE BY HIS SIDE, DID HE HAVE ONE AT ALL? DOES HE HAVE CHILDREN?? HOW THE HELL THEN DOES JOE RELATE TO ME??? OOHHH LORDY AND THAT ELIZABETH HASSLEBACK.....SHE JUST SCARES ME!!!!!

I AM A FIRST TIME VOTER.....AND PROUD AND HAVE A RESTORED SENSE OF PRIDE THANKS TO BARACK OBAMA.....THE OLDER I GOT, THE MORE I LEARNED, THE MORE I DRIFTED AWAY FROM THAT PRIDE FOR THIS COUNTRY.....

BARACK AND MICHELLE OBAMA HAVE INSPIRED ME TO BE THE BEST MOM THAT I CAN BE, TO GO BACK TO SCHOOL AND INSPIRED ME TO BE THE BEST CITIZEN I CAN BE!!! I VOW TO DO MY PART TO CONTRIBUTE IN A POSITIVE WAY TO SOCIETY...

THAT IS PRETTY REMARKABLE!!!!
JESSICA

I'm The First Generation Cuban American To Vote By Birth Right In My Family and I Have Struggled For My Civil Rights Because Of Profiling. WHY?

I am 53 and as a child, my father was involved in a Federal voting rights case. The federal courts ruled that to require that a white person identify a black person before they could register to vote was equal to a black person having to seek the permission of the white community for a legal right as a citizen. An affirmative action referendum on the ballot is similar. It is equivalent to having the people who are creating the hiring inequities decide whether a black person can have equal access to employment. Racism is alive and well in the South. The Obama campaign and even more so his election has really brought to the public view the level of contempt held for blacks in the south and the extent of racial hatred that still exists. There is a reason that all the southern states were red. Many southerners, particularly my age and older, really have problems with race. Change the laws, particularly in hard economic times, and there will be little or no equity in hiring and without a legal recourse, there will be nothing a black person will be able to do about it.

First off, many of the responses that are being given are viewed in a selfish light, sure there has been great opportunity and progress for MINORITIES and it has rapidly been growing. But we can be so selfish to believe this election proves that affirmative action is no longer needed.
Its like riding a bike for the first few times on your own, sure you do well and learn quick but you don't realize that person holding on to your bike seat helping you keep your balance. If you were learning to ride the bike with absolutely no help, im sure it could be done but im confident that the process would be much more difficult and take much longer.
I use that analogy to say that we are looking at things from the view of having that person hold the bicycle seat even though we aren't aware of it. (affirmative action) Many people are not aware of the privileges they receive (black AND white). for the most part African Americans cant be JUST qualified, they have to be OVERQUALIFIED to receive the position, and with affirmative action this changes the entire playing board. Im sure many people have probably never experiences racial discrimination but on the other had the character of the entire US cant be determined based upon a few people or region.
And finally based on the point of us now having an African American president, yes that is a tremendous accomplishment but one accomplishment does not completely clear everyones memory (as they did in the Men in Black movie) though people ultimately looked past race as a hindrance which is commendable, many voters couldn't. Also there was a bit of selfishness that went into voting, people didn't vote for Obama solely because they liked him, they voted for him because he can offer them something and they feel he can help them (not trying to undermine voter's decisions) but how will people react when they dont really benefit or gain anything from the situation.
Affirmative Action is in place basically to make sure the bad people do the right thing. Employers should want a diverse workforce and if you are already doing this i dont see why having affirmative action would even be a problem.
I hope that gives you something to think about.

I tend to be a worrier, so once my joy settled down alittle my mind turned to other amazing people. I m concerned that powerful people /groups feel really threatened by change they are not controlling. King,Kennedy,Obama and others present change to the status quo.There are so many who had died before their time, some by accident or violence,allowing power and change to return to "normal". May our new path stay positive,safe and lasting.

"minorities" have done so much with so little for so long that we are now qualified to do almost anything with nothing

AFFIRIMATIVE ACTION SHOULD "NOT" BE DONE AWAY WITH BY PRESIDENT ELECT OBAMA BECAUSE HE IS BLACK! IF SENATOR MCCAIN HAD WON THE PRESIDENTCY, HE WOULD HAVE BEEN PRESSURED, FROM WHITE PEOPLE, TO DO AWAY WITH AFFIRIMATIVE ACTION, JUST LIKE THE STATE OF COLORADO HAS DONE. IF ANYTHING, OBAMA SHOULD RE-EVALUATE WHY THE FEDERAL GOVERNMENT DOESN'T DO A BETTER JOB OF ENFORCEING THESE LAWS! THESE LAWS GIVE HOPE AND OPPORTUNITY TO MINORITIES WHO BELIEVES THAT AMERICA IS TRYING TO BE JUST AND FAIR! AFFIRMATIVE ACTION WAS CREATED, IN THIS COUNTRY, BECAUSE MINORITIES WERE DISCRIMINATED AGAINST IN EMPLOYMENT AND HOUSING. THESE KIND OF DISCRIMINATION WERE BASE ON RACE, AGE, COLOR, SEX, RELIGION, NATIONAL ORGIN AND DISABILITIES. I BELIEVE THE REAL PROBLEM IS NOT AFFIRIMATIVE ACTION BUT THE STATE OF THIS POOR ECONOMY! THIS ECONOMY HAS EFFECTED USA WORKERS BECAUSE IT LACK'S GOOD PAYING JOBS AND AFFORDABLE HOUSING. OUR COUNTRY NEED MORE GOOD PAYING JOBS THAT CAN NOT BE OUTSOURCE. WE ALSO NEED TO RE-EVALUATE THESE TRADE AGREEMENT SO USA WORKERS JOBS ARE PROTECTED! HOMEOWNERS NEED HELP FROM THE GOVERNMENT AND BANKS FROM LOSING THEIR HOMES TO FOECLOSURES. IF PRESENT ELECT OBAMA FOCUS ON SOLVING THESE PROBLEMS THAN AFFIRIMATIVE ACTION WOULD NOT BE AN ISSUE WHICH IS STARTING TO BE TALK ABOUT!
RAY (WHITE PERSON)

Affirmative action should not end. Though we have made progress in this country, racism is not dead, and still very much alive. I am a professional African-American male in his fifties with a post graduate degree, and while I’m thrilled and proud that an individual with direct African (Kenyan) blood in his ancestry has risen to the highest position of the land, the reality is there are “acceptable� Black people to Whites, and there are “unacceptable� but perhaps tolerable Black people. Many of us African-Americans are reveling that a “Black man� has achieved the White House, due to the historical and dogmatic belief that if you have over 1% Black blood, then you are labeled as a Black person (Negro). However Barack Obama is bi-racial, and while African-Americans readily accept him as “Black�, the reality is that with a Black African father and a Caucasian mother, he is 50-50 and could just as easily be considered “White�. While Blacks desire to see him as a Black man, I believe many White attitudes have evolved to just as easily accept him as a White man with a tan and a few “odd� features (hair lips, nose). Couple this with the fact he has no direct genealogical connection to slavery in this country, was raised (largely by White people) outside the continental U.S. (stunted connection with the civil rights movement), and has the finest educational credentials, makes him a very acceptable “Black� man. Barack Obama is intelligent, articulate, charismatic, handsome, and deserving of the presidency, however let’s be clear and not be duped, he is not representative of Black America. I’m happy that he appears to be in touch with his Black heritage, and elated that he took an “authentic� Black woman as his mate, who also by the way has impeccable credentials, but I can only hope that he at least minimally advances the respectability of Black people in this country. This is another progress step toward civil rights equality, but not the end. Barack Obama has sagaciously capitalized on an unpopular Republican administration coupled with an ever evolving tolerant society; the timing was never more right for a qualified Black democratic candidate to aspire the White House. Had it not happened now, it may have not happened for another generation. Progress has been made, but as long as Black people are a minority, until Black educational achievement is on par with White America, and until a qualified Black person has a true equal chance for ANY and ALL opportunities in this country, some type of compensating mechanism, such as Affirmative Action will be necessary to offset the inequities that still exist.

Brenda Gonzalez,

Were it not for Affirmative Action, previous generations would not have had their capacity for accepting what was once different and uncomfortable. What's more, the forced diversity that is Affirmative Action taught America that we have it in us not only to survive amongst, but actually to thrive upon diversity.

Underperforming schools produce neither majority OR minority candidates that can prove their 'magic mettle' or 'illusive intellect', because they are simply not prepared well enough to do so on a competitive level. To win by your own merits, presumes that the playing field is level, which it very well may be. On the other hand, if it is not ... what is the alternative to Affirmative Action? If it is viable, logical, and can be implemented relatively easily, I am all for it.

Dolores ... great comments! After the election last night, I think we should refer to each other as "RED PEOPLE" and "BLUE PEOPLE" and those in the middle as "PURPLE PEOPLE".

I have never seen a "WHITE PERSON" they look "PINKISH/PEACHY". And I don't think I have ever seen a "BLACK PERSON". They always look various shades of "BROWN".

Obama looks like "COFFEE with lots of CREAM – MOCHA"! That is one of the results that you get when you mix black and white.

theres an overwhelming supply of real estate that has been built recently, it just hasn't been selling for the past 3 years since people have been on foot. Perhaps the government will consider funding hybrid automotive plant research rather than leaving it to companies like AHM(ulev) that suffer lawsuits due to the nature of high voltage alternative fuel system operation and that fact that electrons are invisible until it's to late people get hurt by it so hybrid technology is going to require big bucks to back it's development safely.
something parallel to the ccc and the park service, but with cars...maybe?

Everyone has to really sit down and be honest with themselves. If Barack had the history that McCain had, divorce and Keenan 5 included and McCain the Harvard education with no military experience - what would the results have been? It's a victory for diversity, but we have so far to go. I believe in America though.

Affirmative action only helps the ones who can't help themselves. FACT

i agree with the honesty idea. but stand up. EVERYONE STAND UP AND BE HONEST! GOOD NIGHT EVERYONE!

T BOONE for president

Bill Maher will get taxed more

I have heard more than I can count that we have a black president. Focus on what is important. We have an inspirational leader as president. He's all of America's president. I am white, grew up in poverty and in a mixed black / white poor area and I can care less about race and I think Obama even said this during his speech last night... listen to his leadership media!!!

There he gods with the God jokes

Maher has never seen poor living

Larry--ASK Bill what we should do about IRAN

This guy is not even funny

WOW, there are lots of mean people on here both ways... Everyone needs to get over it. This is the USA, bad things happen and good things happen to all of us. I fear losing my job every day and I am white its nobody else's fault though I will lose it to another race (middle eastern decent) its business. I get up daily and fight to do my best as everyone should. I really like seeing Obama get elected so it will say what he said anyone can do anything... stop excuses from all and maybe things will be better for you... I can say because I could not afford college it hurts me because a friend of mine got a grant because they were black and I did not, oh well he is still my friend and sorry no excuses I just have to work harder. Great job Obama for working hard and earning my respect, trust and vote! We should all not care about race focus on what we can control. Obviously we can do whatever we want no matter what ask whether its win a superbowl (Tony Dungy) or be the most powerful man in the world.... Maybe had I worked harder I could have earned more its not anyone else's fault!

Yes definately, this is a Human Society, God has made humans differently and we have the power to think intelligently. When we have reached the Moon, such unworthy practice of Discrimination based on any criteria should be eliminated , this is one country , one United States and one world . It is time for a change and time to grow.

Larry,
I would like to thank Michael Moore for speaking his truth and helping to remind us as a nation that we are not traitors for disagreeing with the current administration; rather, we are far more patriotic for doing so. I have never felt so hopeful, proud or it has to be said: relieved as I do today. I believe President Obama will help heal this nation and will help restore our place in the International Community. I woke my children last night to watch his acceptance speech so that they could be a part of it all and could someday say that they heard The Speech. We'll all remember where we were when we heard Barack Obama became President.
Thank you,
Rev. Shonna Rhein-Gariepy
Missoula, Montana

Vicky.....not about race as much as background, core belief system and AMERICAN ideals, and past relationships!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Just because we have changed our view of the future does not mean we have changed our views of history.

Barack Obama should be happy with repulicans for giving african americans a chance in this country.

Last night did not belong to America only, to African Americans only, but to the whole world. America is the greatest source of hope and prosperity for the entire world, and if one person that can help America help the world, it is Obama. So congratulations America. Yours is one Nation in the world that can make this tremendous turn around from despair to hope.

Siraj

Calgary, Canada

...change this was and is the crux of this most recent display of demoracy in action. my heartfelt congradulations to this citizen of your nation , a great nation. 4 years will not be enough to inact to instill the change needed. the true test then will be in 2012. will the evangelicals allow this president to govern. to lead. i don't know but i hope for america's sake that in the grand scheme of things they will. imagine....imagine...that word was used by a great performer in our times to open our hearts and eyes to the possibilities that come when barriers all barriers, like the berlin wall fall to the ground and become the dust in the wind. PRESIDENT OBAMA god go with you in this moment of our history the history that belong 's to all people of the world who see now the dawning the true dawning of this brave new world. GOD BLESS AMERICA GOD BLESS CANADA

I think it was a great history making moment, but let's not put the cart before the horse. There is still a lot of racism in our country, and not as many black americans has rose to the top like President Elect Obama. I believe he has se it into play, but game is not over yet. We still need affirmative action. My husband is the only black at a Sheriff Office. If not for affirmative action, there would be no blacks there. It is sad that we need to affirmative action to have made that possible, but we did! Not everyone is happy about Obama being our president. I know , I live in TX and as you seen this state was very red, and my husband and I face racism almost daily. I pray, that the dirty south would clean up its wicked ways and take lessons from the north. God bless!

Why do every news anchors describe President Obama as a black President when we all know that he is half white and half black? I am curious to know if this is not called propaganda that still put Race before all. Although his biography had been broadcasted nearly on all the TV stations covering this election! I feel like the American society is been told and still see race as a determinant of the potentials of person of color. Are we forgetting about resume clearly illuminating his genius and generosity? I believe that Obama politics encompass the entire whole nation as One nation and One people. Maybe it is time that we tune to the future of America starting with everybody should follow his lead in becoming great as his campaign and work course reveal wisdom, hope and incredible inspiration to all generations mostly us college students. As he started his speech with “only in America anything is possible� Obama is will make millions of people’s dreams become reality just because of the care he has for the nation and its people.

The victory of Obama is the result of Affirmative action plan. We can produce many obama's if we AFFIRM action against injustice and racism.

as a white male born and raised in the racist south, for the 1st time in my 48 years of living have i experienced such a joyful feeling of America. in past years i have gotten so frustrated in the political ring, i quit voting unti this year. even though i can not remember John Kennedy, i think America can relate to Obama the same way they related to John Kennedy. Finally we have a president that is calm, intelligent, courteous, and understanding of what people really need. as senator obama spoke his victory speech, i too, for the first time in my life had tears in my eyes, because i knew he too was talking to everyone, including me!

Hi America,

This is great historical evidence to the world who belives in Racism as their root behaviour that Racisim is not the base for politics and to lead life. 4th Nov 2008 has shown that there is nothing beyond ethics and honest dedication to the people and persons honest words to his followers. President has emotional and attachment words to his American people that he makes again America as Land of Great Country in the world.

Man of Honour for Great People

While a lot of Native Americans voted for Obama there is still a wide spread feeling of wiat and see. In the 20th Century we have lost both rights and lands regardless of whether the president was a republican or democrat, in fact we've lost more land in the 20th century due to the actions of democratice presidents and congresses.

During the campaign Obama spoke about Native sovereignty, the principles of nation-to-nation and government-to-government but we've heard that every election cycle, so we'll wait and see.

He came to a couple reservations and said he understood us and what we've gone, so we'll wait and see.

Is this someone, who's personal history is closer to ours than any white man or woman who has run for that office, so we'll wait and see.

I never felt African Americans were wanted in America, i felt we were tolerated, i never thought of America as my Country, until this election.
there are still things that need to be addressed, it wont happen over nite.

Of course! Programs like these are the programs Obama I'm sure will find out how the program is running and how to better improve it. Affirmative action plays a huge role in providing jobs to minorities.

We need affirmative action until we stop asking the question "is race an issue?".

I have never seen such hysteria over one man black or white on becoming our next president! I have been to a few sites and the awful things that they are saying about Mr. Obama is really uncalled for! America wanted change and now that they have it..........it's a problem.......why?? Because our Soon to be President is black...And to top it all off, people are talking about OUR NEW PRESIDENT being assasinated already!! I was reading some post from another site and Mr.Obama is everything from becoming president "because he is black" to being an Atheist! I never voted before in my life and that is true, but I did come close when Bill Clintin was running for office. But I didn't vote then because of personal problems that ahd nothing to do with voting. I voted for Mr.Obama..not because he is black.....but because he is, in my opinion the right man for the job...no offence to Mr. McCain. People wanted change and I am one of those people and now that we may have the chance to get it now, it's a problem because our President-elect is a black man...Let's be real here......Do people think it would have really made a difference if the man was white?? No...it would not have....I might not agree with a few things that Mr.Obama has put out there in his speeches but with God's guidence, I believe he will help our Beautiful Country try to get back what we have lost! Our American Soldiers, overseas, fighting the good fight and some of them lost their lives because of it...I have the utmost respect for them and I hope and pray that this conflict can come to an end and bring home the husbands, fathers, mothers brothers, sisters ,aunts ,uncles and cousins safely...These American Soldiers are the real heros here and let's try and get them home and not worry about what color the person is running the country as long as our troops come home safe and sound to their families who I know miss and worry about them every single blessed day!

I think this election and Obama's huge win moves us closer to not needing Affirmative Action. It is a step forward. Once people see Obama demonstrate his competency in office, I think we will see a larger shift in a positive direction for racial relations. Some people unfortunately still don't get it, but we'll get closer with each day. I'm so happy for Obama and for our country.

Larry,
We live in Ontario Canada but have family in North Carolina......my 10 year old son and have been following the presendential race for months now. We watched with bated breath (Obama for president caps donned) and witnessed two heartfelt and moving speeches yesterday. He has been following CNN and he was absolutely glued to the television set. As we sat watching President Obama's speech- happiness overflowing for your country, I shed tears of joy with so many others, at the historic importance of that night. I explained to my young son that this would be one of those moments in life where he would remember where he was and how he felt and what he witnessed. The next day I awoke to him replaying the speech on our television. When I asked him why he was watching it again, he claimed that he wanted to take in every moment if he was to remember it forever. I just wanted you to realize what interest, enthusiasm and heart such a little boy has for the future of a country he does not even call his own.

Sincerely and most kindly,

Tory Jones

Larry , I watch you everynight and I think you are very good about holding back your own views , your such a great interviewer
but now since the election is over can would you inform your viewers on who it was you voted for ..i always had the feeling you was and Obama support ? which i felt we had something in common ...is that true ? please let us know !!!!

thank you Chanel

i never thought in my life time i would ever see a black president...it is special....though racial lines still keep us divided..i think this is a monumental achivement ...dont get me wrong...but i still think there is ground to go ....my comment though is for one of your guest. rev jesse jackson is on your show and i watched the news last night and seen him crying and carrying on .....now i might be out of touch, but when was a pass given to him for those nasty comments on live tv. for someone to talk very highly and such...i dont understand why is crediablitly is not tarnished to the point were his appearance on your show should be validated ..or anywhere else for that matter....if this is read i please would like to hear what kind of defence he has for that or is his crying and carrying on a stunt or act ...i dont have to repeat those nasty thing he has said about our president-elect

This is election has shown me that American minds have opened up drastically. However, we as a country still have a lot of growing to do and are not ready to drop affirmative action nationally. There are cities throughout the country that are more forward thinking than others and affirmative action is probably not necessary in these cities. We are definitely making strides toward ending affirmative action.

Side notes:
1. This is not a terrible question. Issues can't be resolved if they are not discussed. Let's start talking and LISTENING (with open minds)!

2. As a black person I am proud of President-elect Obama but we need to stop harping on that and pay attention to how he does his job. We will need to grade him on this later. And KNOW I will not give him a pass because he is black!

3. Even if you don't approve of President-elect Obama, put your passion to good use. Do something to help improve your community! I will.

Ask yourself this: Can any male or female of any ethnic pursuasion apply for any job that they qualify for based on experience and/or education comfortably say they have an equal chance at being hired for the job? Do we all have equal access to the same institutions of education? Are we all treated fairly and equally in every institution of education? If anyone can guarantee a yes to these questions then by all means end Affirmative Action!