Cornel West and Barack Obama

The Black War Over Obama was written by Allison Samuels and published in Newsweek Magazine on August 15, 2011. The column records issues in regards to Cornell West's attacks on President Obama. Samuels also shows how West has gone to the streets with his criticism including the 15-city "poverty bus" tour. The column ends with a quote of Professor Charles Ogletree “This is not about two very brilliant men squashing a beef”, implying that the disaccord of West with Obama will not be allowed to impact the 2012 reelection of Obama. This article is Samuels's personal views in regards to Cornel West turning his back on the man he helped place in office.

Allison Samuels's column on the relationship between Cornel West and Barack Obama gives us an explanation of how the media can play a major role in the election of public officials. She quotes Rev. Otis Moss III as saying that "The negative discussion Dr. West is having can only put more apathy in the hearts of African-Americans and could ultimately cause them to lose more faith in the entire political process, where does which leave us?" It is hard to say how much of an impact might be having on the African-American Community. Samuels states that the President has retained overwhelming support among black voter, but the numbers have drastically decreased from those of 2008. According to Samuels some of the President's allies a truce is near.

1) Obama faces opposition from the Republican Party, but which portion of the public seems the most upset with Obama's performance in office?
The African-Americans
2) What is different about unemployment and foreclosures for African Americans today?
Unemployment is near 17 percent for African-Americans (the national average rate is 9 percent) and 11 percent of black homeowners facing imminent foreclosure
3) What is the "Congressional Black Caucus"?
An organization representing the black members of the United States Congress.
4) What portion of the population does Cornell West think Obama is ignoring?
Those living in poverty
5) What criticisms do members of the African American community have about West's approach?
That he is placing apathy in the hearts African-Americans which is causing them to loose faith in the political system
6) How have perceptions of Barack Obama changed in the African American community?
They don’t believe that Obama's actions have helped the economy
7) Why do some suspect that Cornell West's criticism is not sincere?West and Smiley may have been motivated by a desire for attention and book sales than a genuine concern for the poor.
8) Why is it so important that Barack Obama make amends with Cornel West?
Cornell West is a prominent figure in the African-American community and can sway the votes of the African-American peoples
9) Cornel West is a good example of an "opinion leader". What do you think that means?
I think this means that his opinions often persuade others in to having the same opinions as himself
10) What do you think about West's criticism and approach?
I think that West's criticism and approach is dramatic and uncalled for