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Originally Posted by Vlad_Dracul
Indeed though the two are rather closely intertwined in this particular scenario. They are basically saying,well hes black so will certain sections of the USA electorate vote for him? Perhaps this says more about certain sections of the electorate?
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Both the Black vote which will properly go for him, and some sections of the White vote that will not you mean?
I would not say that Black people voting for him because he is black is racist, whereas I would say that White people who do not vote for him because he is black are. I know that sounds like double-standards but allow me to explain.
First of all, Black people in the States have always voted (well, since they have been
allowed to vote) for white people. Although some Black people are racist just as some white people are, I do not think that racism is a big factor in their decision making.
This time, for the first time ever, there is a black nominee. I think that in this one case, a lot of black voters will vote purely to see him become president as it would be a massive moment for them, especially those old enough to remember the pre-civil rights movement. It would be a sign that race relations have dramatically improved in the States and it would be useful to further that cause. If we continue to see black nominees then we will begin to see that effect dwindle and it really will not matter the colour of the candidates skin.
In this election, although Obama has kept his race out of the process as much as possible, race will be important.