Brady Resource Group :: Glenn's Blog - Can Obama Become President?

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Posted by: A. Glenn Brady	1/8/2008
Well the results are in and the headlines all declare that New York Senator Hillary Clinton is the winner of the Democratic primary in New Hampshire. This is after the surprise victory of Illinois Senator Barak Obama in the Iowa Caucus. There is a wave of excitement as Obama becomes the first African-American touted as a viable candidate that can result with a residence at 1600 Pennsylvania Avenue in January 2009. When he declared his presidency, many doubted whether he could rally the white vote and be taken serious. But we’ve seen that in both Iowa and New Hampshire, states with predominantly white populations, citizens have embraced the Obama message of ‘change.’ Democratic strategist Steve McMahon on “Meet The Press” this past Sunday declared about Obama, “He is a movement and idea more than a candidate.” But even with these two impressive showings, the question is “Can Obama Become President?” Even though Oprah Winfrey has endorsed and supported Obama, many African-American leaders have yet to come out, join the bandwagon and announce their endorsement. Should Obama become president, is he the candidate to embrace the ideals and support of Christians and Apostolic-Pentecostals? To raise support in the African-American community last year in South Carolina, Obama held several gospel concerts.The campaign had vigorously promoted the candidate's faith, launching "40 Days of Faith and Family" in September 2007, which used Bible study groups to tap into the black electorate. But when it was announced that Donnie McClurkin was a participant on the ticket, there was an outcry from the gay community because the Grammy-award winning McClurkin is on record as saying homosexuality is a lifestyle choice. While Obama still had McClurkin to sing to the decry of the those who protested, he issued the following statement, "I strongly disagree with Reverend [Donnie] McClurkin's views and will continue to fight for these rights as president of the United States," and argued that it is important to confront homophobia among religious African Americans.” Certainly, having two impressive showings under his belt is historical, but it still is a long, uphill battle. Join me with my weekly blog as we include “The Obama Watch,” along with topics of other subjects. In upcoming, future blogs on “The Obama Watch,” we will examine the details of upcoming primaries and discuss such topics as Is America Ready To Embrace a Black President, Who Should Be Obama’s Vice Presidential Choice, Will His Popularity Increase An Assassination Attempt On His Life, Does He Have The Experience To Deal With Conflict Around The World, and many more. I hope you will participate and express your views, but back to this week’s blog, *“Can Obama Become President?”* Let me hear from you. Be blessed -- AGBrady

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Re: Can Obama Become President?

By Min.George Harris on 1/8/2008

I really think that Mr.Obama would have a better chance at President in a second attempt in four years.He has just broken the ice for blacks to be put in a office of that high of authority.Jesse Jackson wanted to run for the office but got smart and said no.Gen Collin Powell would have had a good chance at the office of President but got smart and said no also.For a African American to become President I feel that he would be putting his and his families life in danger.

Re: Can Obama Become President?	By Melvin A Brooks on 1/9/2008
With God as you know all things are passable, and in this case will be determine by who called and is sending him. If God commissioned Obama to become the next U.S.A President, then he has already won, and if not , then we will see his actual end in his desire to be President, some have said the next u.s.a President is already chosen. Blessings for the new year. BMAB.

Re: Can Obama Become President?

By Jacquie Hays on 1/9/2008

I am one who believes, if Obama is ordained by God to become President of the United States, it was done before the foundation of the world. I have to reflect and look at the choice of God in the Mayorial Seat of this City, with one of our own in the person of Jay Williams. This City and County in the State of Ohio is undoubtedly one of the roughest politically to participate in. I have seen the hand of God overturn a political foundation to bring his choice to pass. This year has been declared as the Year of the Saints and I believe the Saints will have the authority over the election to determine who will be president, not just as their presence at the polls which is of utmost importance, but the bible says. if my people who are called by my name would humble themselves and pray..... with that said, I believe we can declare God's choice to be and put a fire wall of protection around his family. It is time for the racial barriers to fall, just as the Berlin wall fell. Have a blessed and properous new year, we will sit back and watch the hand of God move.

Re: Can Obama Become President?

By G.Burney on 1/9/2008

One thing that we as saints must be asking ourselves what does Obama stand for will he help move the Gay rights movement forward ? IT is important that we as saints do not hand over our power to someone who will go against the word of the Lord. Also if elected Obama will be facing huge challenge of reducing the debt of America other countries hold the notes on our land which simply means we cannot pay our bills .May the Lord bless the saints in 2008

Re: Can Obama Become President?

By M. Stevenson on 1/9/2008

In our vote for a president, I think we need to look beyond the color of a candidate's skin and at the real issues at hand. We see a lot of candidates trying to maintain a middle of the road approach on issues. However, as saints of God, we have a responsibilty to propogate God's agenda and not our own. Although homosexuality is not the only prime topic in political arenas, (for healthcare, war, national debt, globalization are also included), homosexuality is one of the issues that disturbs me the most. We know what the Word of God states, so we can't be people of faith in God and allow the institution of family to become desolate. On some issues, we can't be in the middle of the road, and we have to make known our stance. I would love to have an African-American president, but my political perspective is not so narrow that I ignore other issues.

Re: Can Obama Become President?

By Jonathan Smith on 1/9/2008

I believe that Senator Barak Obama can become the next President of the United Stastes of America. I have listened to him address the nation throughout his campaign, and I have been inspired every time that I hear him speak. His message is not primarily about the other candidates, but his message is about hope and change in America. I believe that is the heartbeat, and the spirit that is driving his campaign. Last night he concluded with a theme of " Yes we can" and we know the bible says that we can do all things through christ that strengthens us. I believe that Sen. Barak Obama can bring about the change that is needed in this country. He may not have won in New Hampshire, but he is already victorious by proving the critics and the cynics wrong. They said he would'nt make it this far but look where is now. Finally I believe that his campaign has engaged one of the best audiences, and that is the young people who are the future of this great country. Thank you Bishop Brady for all that your doing. This resource group is exactly what we need. Jonathan Smith

Re: Can Obama Become President?	By Ray Washington on 1/9/2008
I think it's still much to early to tell. As you can see, many of our black leaders have not jumped on the Obama bandwagon as of yet. We saw this excitement when Jessie Jackson ran. I'm hopeful but it's just to early yet.

Re: Can Obama Become President?

By Daniel Clifton Colvin on 1/9/2008

The question was "Can Obama Become President?" The answer is, "...can do all things through Christ that strengthens..." Will Obama become president? Only God knows. But I certainly hope so. I have watched several of the political debates, and I've come to the conclusion that politically, almost any one of the candidates could do a decent job as president. They all have the same information, and access to the same strategies. The difference is their personalities, and their hearts for the people. I sat and listened to Barak Obama speak at the Apostolic Church of God in Chicago, Illinois in 2005. I was there when he openly showed his faith and praised our God, and spoke from his heart to the people of God. Ever since, whenever I see him speak in interviews or debates, he speaks with the same sincerity. His heart is in the right place. If we focus on single political issues, and overlook the integrity in this man, who has the potential to do so much good, then we will put ourselves in jeopardy. Barak Obama is my President, in Jesus' name.

Re: Can Obama Become President?

By Angela Brady on 1/10/2008 on 1/10/2008

I am certain that the next coming weeks will be challenging as we move further into the Primaries. There will be numerous attacks on all of the candidates. As for Senator Barack Obama, he states “Yes We Can” and with that thought in mind, we as spirit filled believers must entertain the scripture that “I can do all things through Christ which strengthens me.” No one could have imagined that we as African Americans could have accomplished what happened in Iowa. I know that to some it would be said what Senator Obama accomplished, but I feel this as a whole nation of people, and Senator Obama represents all those who pray, not for an African American to become president, but that God will allow a man or woman to lead our country with the voice of CHANGE and to mobilize the foundation in which this country was built on. We need to pray that the spirit of God will lead in this election and pray for the covering on God’s Chosen Man or Woman of this Season. There is something definitely in the air, it is moving as strong winds move across our nation. We cannot change the past but we can pray for the future of our country. My scripture for 2008 is from Psalm 65: 11 and 12…”Thou crownest the year with thy goodness; and thy paths drop fatness (abundance). They drop upon the pastures of the wilderness: and the little hills rejoice on every side.” I pray that Senator Obama will be covered with the goodness of God and that as he travels around the country that the residue of God’s favor will drip in abundance. I also want to applaud the financial support and means given to his campaign. Another reason why someone would say…”it couldn’t be done”.

Re: Can Obama Become President?

By Angela Brady on 1/10/2008

Re: Can Obama Become President?

By Brandon Thomas on 1/11/2008

Personally I think that it's a wonderful thing to see Sen. Obama, through the help of the Lord, accomplish the things he has! It is such an inspiration to my generation. I know that he is also a blessing to this entire generation but I chose to highlight my generation. I can recall Bishop talking about how he and Sis. Wagner followed Former President John F. Kennedy. I am so excited now because we have a leader. We have a hero who showed us, especially African-Americans, that it can be done. It's very clear that the winds of change are blowing. One thing that I know that myself and many others have to do is stay attentive to the Voice of the Lord to know what to do. I do agree that we as the saints of God must do is pray a prayer of covering around him. God Bless

Re: Can Obama Become President?	By Denise on 1/13/2008
Anything is possible.<br><br>Many blacks have stated that they will not vote for Obama because they do not want his blood on their hands.

Re: Can Obama Become President?

By B.E.T on 1/14/2008

Obama can be President of the United States. There are number a reasons why he won’t be. I listen to a lot of talk radio. The majority of the talk radio hosts are white men, a few are women. Most of these radio hosts’ “say they like Obama.” They say things like, “I have no problem voting for a black person,” “he’s articulate,” he’s energizing, etc, etc…” But they say they wouldn’t vote for him for various reasons, which include: “He’s too liberal,” “his tax plan is flawed,” the list goes on. What I observe through their mantra, is that they have concocted sophisticated and systematic ways to disqualify him. They would be banned if they said, “they would not vote for a “black person” period.” But his policies are flawed is the reason they give for not voting for him. Through manipulation and antics, pure prejudices, and racist attitudes, these radio hosts disqualify him because they don’t want a “black man” to President. Do I believe that Obama can be President, Yes! Sure! If GOD can take George W. Bush, and make him President; GOD can use a black man. Will Obama be President, No! The rhetoric does not just lie with white radio hosts; but we have some members of our black academia to disqualify him; such as Dr. Cornell West. A brother can’t win. If we don’t support our own, we live up to what the Honorable Malcolm X said, was our proverbial “hood-winkness, bamboozledness, run-a-muckness, crabs-in-a-barrelness.” If not for reasons so shadow as being African-American, Obama deserves our vote. Now, many can make the case that we have the Honorable Justice Clarence Thomas. But I contend despite his rulings and decisions, he’s still one of us, whether we like it or not. I say, vote for Obama, and just maybe you will be voting for yourself.

Re: Can Obama Become President?

By A. Glenn Brady on 1/14/2008

B.E.T., You present a sound and logical position. As the campaign moves to South Carolina, we can see how the "race card" is beginning to present itself as both Clinton and Obama vie for the African-American vote. This is the first time in history that an African-American has a viable candidacy to become president of the USA. At this point, we don't have the ability to know whether Obama will become President or bow out before the Democratic convention, but if he is still in contention by the time of the Ohio primaries, I'll be able to tell my grandchildren one day that I voted for Obama.

Re: Can Obama Become President?

By B.E.T on 1/14/2008

I concur. What a day of rejoicing it will be. Win or not, he has elevated the playing field. His being there means progress has been made. It is proof-positive that when "African-Americans" are given the opportunity to be participate in process, we can make tremedous impact. We as Christians have a duty to ensure that we participate in the political process. It is quite unfair to disqualify Obama because of his stand on homosexuality. But whether he is for or against homosexuality, is a mute point. It is the responsibility of the Church to draw all men unto Christ, not the politician. How many of us will turn away the homosexual, prayerfully none of us will. Jesus died for all, that includes even the homosexuals. Obama should not be disqualified for his stand on homosexuals. How many of our pastors who once said "women wearing red, were of the devil," have now change, and their church pews, and church robes are crimsom." Change is good. Growth is good. Now, I am not advocating that a practicing homosexual be allowed to flunt their ways, as much as I am not advocating that we use a fornicator, or adulterer be able to be parade and celebrated. My question is if the homosexuals are going to be drawn to Christ, we must love them him. I am afraid that oftentimes in the African-American Church we are HOMOPHOBIC. Let's love everyone. When we vote for politicians we are not voting for a religious leaders, we are voting for civic leaders. Let continue to pray that our spiritual leaders keep following GOD.

Re: Can Obama Become President?

By A. Glenn Brady on 1/15/2008

B.E.T., while it is true that we must love everyone -- we do as "The Church" must both make and take a stand on what is right & wrong. Perhaps this subject can be looked at in more detail for a future blog discussion. And while I am casting my full support and vote for Obama, if he would announce a stand or positions or want to enact policy that I feel would be so contrary to my spiritual belief & conviction --- then I would have to reconsider my support. However, at this point I do not see him as a liability to the Christian cause and my prayer is that he will surround himself with advisors that can help him make decisions from Christian & Biblical principles. Next week I'll introduce in the "Obama Watch," whether the Black religious leaders of America are supporting Obama or Clinton.

Re: Can Obama Become President?

By Michelle on 1/15/2008

I know this much. I knew God's hands is on him from the moment he was introduced into public life, a few years ago, between 2003-04. I can't explaine why or how ,but he's unique, different; a new type of attraction he's carrying. He has an unconventional way of attracting people throughout his campaign. He's speaks differently from other black candidates of the past. Try to remember how the other black candidates spoke, and sounded, then ask yourself did they sounded more like preachers, catering only towards black Americans, applausible, were they able to draw huge crowds, and connect with people from other parties like Obama did? Then my final question is whether or not Obama is the first black candidate to "WIN A PRIMARY IN A NON BLACK PRIMARY STATE?"........That in itself is history made. All I know from reading his books and learning how he restored Chicago her glory by working as a city organizer, and his broken background having to live without his father, then having to live over sea in a third world country, born into bi-racial union, with high aptitude, excelled as president of Harvard University, then graduated from law school,with so many high prestigious job offers just to give them all up, and turn around, to go back to help the meek and the lowly in his community, when he could had easily ran away with his success and not look back. All of this tells me he cares about people and he represents America. PLEASE NOTE: Like Abraham and Moses in the bible, Obama is not afraid to take the unconventional way to success. God is leading me to pray for him.

Re: Can Obama Become President?	By Michelle on 1/15/2008
Please excuse my grammar. I meant to say God's hands are on him. Writing is not my strong area.....BUT HEY...you got the point.

Re: Can Obama Become President?	By Michelle on 1/15/2008
Please excuse my grammar. I meant to say God's hands are on him. Writing is not my strong area.....BUT HEY...you got the point.

Re: Can Obama Become President?	By Michelle on 1/15/2008
Let me get out of here before I make 3 in a row. hahaha

Re: Can Obama Become President?

By LESNWOT08 on 1/16/2008

I think a better question would be. . .Should Obama Become President? At this point, I am not convinced that he is ready. I have not heard his take on all of the issues. I think where we could really err is to follow someone simply because they are black. We should be looking to elect someone who can do the most for us collectively. One strike I have against Obama is that he has Oprah touting up front for him. As a God fearing woman. . . I am not impressed with Oprah l. . .yes she has a following. . .and money. . . but there are things that could jump up and bite us. . .down the road. I could go on. . .but I'd better quit before I get in trouble.

Re: Can Obama Become President?	By Michelle on 1/16/2008
To LESNWOT08 here's his website on all the issues you appearantly missed. http://my.barackobama.com/

Re: Can Obama Become President?	By B.E.T on 1/17/2008
Bishop Brady I concede. I forgot a fundamental aspect of being a saint of GOD; that is "PRAYER CHANGES THING." I agree whole-heartly that Mr. Obama can be influenced by Christian leaders such as yourself on the issue of homosexuality.

Re: Can Obama Become President?	By B.E.T on 1/17/2008
Bishop Brady I concede. I forgot a fundamental aspect of being a saint of GOD; that is "PRAYER CHANGES THING." I agree whole-heartly that Mr. Obama can be influenced by Christian leaders such as yourself on the issue of homosexuality.

Re: Can Obama Become President?	By B.E.T on 1/17/2008
Bishop Brady I concede. I forgot a fundamental aspect of being a saint of GOD; that is "PRAYER CHANGES THING." I agree whole-heartly that Mr. Obama can be influenced by Christian leaders such as yourself on the issue of homosexuality.

Re: Can Obama Become President?

By T. A. C on 1/22/2008

I read with particular interest in the exchanges between Bishop Brady and B.E.T. Is it that there is particular interest in voting for Obama because he is black,or on the contrary, that he will not get voted for because he has a liberal view on homosexuality? Do these issues carry enough weight when placed against others? How different are the policies of Obama in comparison to those of Clinton? As Christians have we been "trained" to consider these isssues to the neglect of other more seemingly important ones? What of the inarguably unjust imperialist occupation of Iraq? What of the imminent war with Iran? What about the inequitable foreign policies of our beloved US that perpetuate poverty in developing nations while fattening the calf that is already the fattest in the world? What about the growing divide between the super rich and the poor? Aren't these issues far more important than the two being argued on between Bishop Brady and B.E.T.? Please, do not misunderstand me. It is a great achivement for a black man to finally be a viable candidate in the presidential race of our racist country (i beg you to disagree!!), but I am not convince that having a black man in the White House is going to change the systemic problems that face us, especially when his policies are not significantly differnet than the other front runners. Come on Bishop, let me see our response.

Re: Can Obama Become President?

By ATP on 1/22/2008

As i scanned all that has been said, i reflected on something that happened over the past few days. Obama has not lowered his standards and attacked Clinton personally, as she and her husband both have. Although it was said by a Clinton representative that they can not control the former President Clinton, one person (a forner Clinton advisor, now working with Obama) said it best "how will they control him if she is elected to office". Has everyone forgotton all of the things that occurred while he was in office, all of the scandal, all of the cabinet memebers that either committed suicide, went to jail or died. Although none of the frontrunners have any experience, what President really does. Ultimately, we as the people of God need to be on one accord and pray for the person that God has chosen, the person that has been called to lead us at this time. The primaries are only a formality, once we unit, if we can speak healing to a diseased body and it obeys......need i say more? What are you speaking about Obama?

Re: Can Obama Become President?

By A. Glenn Brady on 1/23/2008

T.A.C., I certainly agree with the issues that you have listed that are important and crucial to consider. Whether Obama, as a black man, can change the "systemic problems that face us" as you've pointed out, I would certainly welcome the opportunity. Consider if Sen. Clinton is elected as President -- that would mean the most powerful country in the world would have had just two families (the Bushes & Clintons) serve potentially as its leader for about 3 decaades. I just think that someone could bring a different perspective and just possibly attempt to make some changes based on a new outlook.

Re: Can Obama Become President?

By T.A. C on 1/25/2008

Bishop, I read and to an extent I agree. However, I still find it very difficult to see the vast difference between Obama's position on issues and that of the other leaing candidates. Forgive if I am wrong and I do stand to be corrected. Perhaps you may point out the major differences that are there.In assessing all the candidates, the only one that really stands out with anything even worthy of being considered radical is ROn Paul. He is not black, obviously, but I do not think that his colour (or lack thereof for that matter) should be the determining factor in my choice of president. In regard to the bloodlines that are evident in the Presidency for the past three decades, I will have to say that it is a point accepted and agreed with. Tell me though, which is worse? Blood relatives governing the country for three decades or cronies from the same universities (think tanks if you so prefer) or secret societies that govern the country for centuries? They think alike and rarely differ in view on any matter worth differing on. I draw no conclusions but I am yet to find Obama that different. What is your view?

Re: Can Obama Become President?

By A. Glenn Brady on 1/26/2008

Ron Paul!! T.A.C., come on -- you might as well vote for Kucinich. While you might not think Obama's position is no different than the other leading candidates, are you saying then we have to go with Ron Paul because his views are so different? What will be interesting that we will have to see develop is if Mayor Bloomberg enters the race with as an independent. Something we can discuss in the future if it should develop.

Re: Can Obama Become President?

By Landon Bigelow on 2/8/2008

Yes Senator Obama can become President! I believe if Senator Barack Obama gets the Democratic nomination he will be the next President of the United States. Our country is crying out for a change, many young people support Senator Obama because the can see history in the making about to unfold. Obama is the next man, and I heard God say pray for Obama. Barack Obama will be they next President of the United States I believe. He will have many issues and problems ahead but if it is his calling and Gods will he will do some good things for this country and not only this country but the World. Consider the message to America and the world if a man that comes from a people that survived the ship ride across the Atlantic and slavery to become sworn into the highest governmental office in this nation. You can become what ever you dream! You heard it from me Barack is the next President.

Re: Can Obama Become President?	By Matthew on 2/22/2008
Yes Obama can become President. All things are possible to them that believe. <br><br>Huckabee says I believe in Miracles. I major in Miracles not Math. he uderstands that even tho it is mathmatically inpossible for him to win God Can turn it around in his favor. tho I don' think it will happen

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