Obama and Oprah - The Big O's

There are those that believe Oprah is obligated to host other presidential candidates since Barack Obama was on her program. Granted, his appearance was prior to the announcement of his presidential bid, but make no mistake about it, it was a calculated move. You don't wake up one day and say, "Hey, I think I'll run for president of the United States." Years of planning go into it. The Oprah show fulfilled its purpose. It jumpstarted Obama's presidential campaign. As a fan, I viewed Oprah as a smart, wealthy, generous, media savvy woman. Merely sharing a stage with Oprah elevated Obama in many eyes.

Oprah has done many great things but that doesn't mean her endorsement of anything or anyone is without flaw. Let's not forget the Million Pieces fiasco where Oprah endorsed an autobiography that turned out to be pure fabrication. Based upon the book, Oprah heralded the writer as a great American who had triumphed over tremendous odds. When the writer was unveiled as a fraud Oprah initially refused to sway from her endorsement. It was only when the writer confessed that Oprah finally admitted her misjudgment.

How did one of the most powerful, influential people of our time make such a mistake? How could a woman who commands so many people be fooled by one? She had the same resources that were available to those that unmasked the writer's sham. With the truth glaringly evident she severely admonished him and apologized but the damage was done. Millions bought the book because Oprah authenticated it. If she's wrong about Obama, the price for America can be catastrophic.

To say I'm not thrilled with President Bush is like saying September 11 was merely a difficult day. I knew we needed change long before it became the democratic mantra. On the surface Obama appears to be the man. He's wildly popular, speaks eloquently and gives voice to the cry of change that echoes from American hearts.