Jackson criticizes Obama

[cali]

Presidential candidate’s response to Jena, La., case called too weak
By RODDIE A. BURRIS - [e-mail]

The Rev. Jesse Jackson called Tuesday on Democrats seeking the 2008 nomination for president to give S.C. voters “something to vote for” when they go to the polls in January.

On a statewide tour to register new voters, Jackson said South Carolina will determine “who has momentum” in the primary when it votes Jan. 29.

Jackson sharply criticized presidential hopeful and Illinois Sen. Barack Obama for “acting like he’s white” in what Jackson said has been a tepid response to six black juveniles’ arrest on attempted-murder charges in Jena, La. Jackson, who also lives in Illinois, endorsed Obama in March, according to The Associated Press.

“If I were a candidate, I’d be all over Jena,” Jackson said after an hour-long speech at Columbia’s historically black Benedict College.

“<snip>

Later, Jackson said he did not recall making the “acting like he’s white” comment about Obama, stressing he only wanted to point out the candidates had not seized on an opportunity to highlight the disproportionate criminal punishments black youths too often face.

<snip>

Interesting. Did he or did he not say it? I'm a wee bit wary of the "I don't recall saying x" defense.
http://www.thestate.com/local/story/177514.html

[ellacott]

1. Jackson has endorsed Obama

I would have doubts that he would make the "acting white" comment.

Of course I could be wrong but I have doubts he would say that.