CNN

Introduce himself??? Why, we've have 16 months to get to know him, isn't that time enough?

Yes, unfortunately Barack needs to re-itroduce himself to the undereducated electorate that still believes he is a Muslim, and other stupid smears. Either these people can't or don't read or use computers so he might have a tough time penetrating their illiteracy, if he wants their votes.

No Jack I don't think that he need to reintroduce himself to voters. He has been on television for months now and if voters don't know his story by now then they must be living in igloos.

Well, McCain thought he needed to after serving in the Senate and running for President once before, right? In all seriousness, Obama needs to ensure he has a chance to express his message directly to folks who either don't follow politics or only take second-hand information from emails and radio-hosts.

Let's se Jack, he was against NAFTA and now is for it. He was for public financing and is now against it. Rev. Wright was his mentor, and now is under a bus. His church was very important, until it wasn't. Why would Obama need to reintroduce himself?

Well Jack, That is a good question. He is turning against his own primary campaign promises slowly. So he is reintroducing the side we never saw of him. I guess we will see the true colors of the man most of the American didn't know several years back. It will be interesting to watch what he does in the coming months.

- Nuwan from Houston, TX

It is important for him to reintroduce himself in the general so the GOP can not define him on faith, taxes, and other issues. Just listening to GOP Senator Graham on Sunday talking out of the side of his mouth about public campaign financing is more than enough evidence to fight the GOP with everything you can.

No. But he needs to explain himself and his platform better. Once the Swift Boaters start cruising he will need to have a rock solid set of detailed plans to solve all the problems Bush will leave for him. Then he may have a chance.

Jack
Barack Obama should be constantly be introducing himself, he is a young, inexperienced, no name. This is another hurdle he has to overcome.

In a way, yes. He needs to come out of the shadows of that long and ugly campaign, and declare his idendity as the new face of Washington. Then he needs to campaign in ways that are new and imaginative in order to demonstrate that he really is about change, and not just the same old political double-talk. He also has to stop letting McCain call the shots when it comes to debates or townhalls or any of those other old landmines.

Jack, I am sure that after watching all the television pundits saying he needs to get out there and introduce himself, is why he is doing it. Now every one is wanting to make an issue of this as with everything else he does. People need to stop and think they are talking about the next President of the USA. I must also say Jack ,I do not like the way the bloggers go after you and Keith Olberman. Let them talk , you both are loved by many. OBAMA 08

Connie from Indiana

Anyone interested in the election should know by now who Obama is, otherwise, they are not interested. He needs to stay out there in the public eye, though, to keep his message going. Those who think he is a carbon copy of the Reverend Wright might finally see the light and see that he is a complete opposite.
Doris
Ojai, California

Yes, he needs to make sure his whole record of accomplishments and ideas is visible and he must continue to battle the lies and distortions about his life and record. Still those who want to believe those lies in order to excuse a vote against Obama rather than a vote for McCain will.

Jack,
You bet he does. In a conversation about the future of the country last night with my 44 year old, usually well informed son, he asked if I thought Barack Obama had a chance of winning the election. When I answered yes, he said "Do you think this country is ready to elect a Muslim?" I almost passed out! If a usually well informed New Yorker thinks Obama is a Muslim, there's a LOT of work to be done in this, and many other areas, and his people need to get on it A.S.A.P.

Jack,
After sixteen months of campaigning and countless stadiums being packed to capacity I doubt there are too many people who don't know the name Barack Obama. With that much support for Obama it's John McCain who should consider reintroducing himself to his dwindling fan base.

Jack
i don't think he needs to reintroduce himself so much as to introduce himself. Lots of folks out there are operating on bad information and unfoundded assumptions. Before their misconceptions harden into certainty, Barack Obama has to make himself known and to make his case for election very clear.
It won't be easy. It takes only a little information for a person to make up his mind. It takes several tons of information to get him even to consider changing his initial position.

Pablo en Tejas

Common sense tells us there is a certain segment of the population who will not take the initiative or time to look for the facts so they will be the minority that will listen to talk show hosts like Limbaugh and Dobbs. If Obama found a cure for the common cold today people like these commentators would still chastise him for not finding the cure earlier so it is up to the public to sort the wheat from the chaff.

To answer your question all Obama can do is to continue meeting people and delivering his message of change and how it contrasts with McCain's worn out old school policies. If the majority of people don't use their heads for more than a hat rack then the next 4 years might make the last 8 years look like a success.

Jack,
It never hurts for Barack to keep reminding people of his humble
upbringing, the opportunities he had (and has) and why he wants
to be our president. His speaking of his love for his family as
a father and husband, son, grandson is always heartwarming.
There are people out there who still say they do not know who he
is or what he stands for. Well, I don't know where they have been
for the last year but certainly not with it.
Many of those who have negative beliefs are going to keep them no
matter what he says. Although we have come a long way,
unfortunately, there are still biased, radical, prejudiced people
out there. They don't know the true meaning of United States of
America.

Probably so but I do wish he would shut about about how McCain flip flops and just tell the American people what he and his his campaign will do for the American people. I already know that McCain is not the maverick he says he is. Stay on track and don't let them lead you off into petty bickering.

He doesn't need to re-introduce himself....people just need to pay attention and not let their bias' and pre-conceived notions rule them.

There are too many backward thinking, prejudiced people in this country that would rather vote for McCain only because he is a white man instead of a black man that can really make a difference!

If everyone stuck to the "norm" then the puritans would not have made it over here, the pilgriims would have stayed in England and our founding fathers would probably have ended up writing great laws for the English Parliment instead of our Declaration of Independance.

Sometiimes the same old thing is what people need, but not right now and not in the future. If we have the same old thing now in McCain I think I may end up having to roller blade to work in another 8 months..or face $8 a gallon for gas!

Yes, so he can clear the air from all the bad publicity he has had and let everyone know who he is and what he stands for – a united America.
Diane From PA

For political junkies like you and everyone else who reads your blog we might think 'who hasn't heard of Barack Obama?' But the fact is that there are many people who haven't cared to get to know him, his story or his message. Or if they have heard of him what they know is from conservative radio talk shows and virulent smear emails. Voters need to know that Barack Obama isn't a bad guy and that the world won't fall apart if he's elected president. You'd have every right not to agree with him on a whole host of political issues, but first you need to know who he is and what he stands for.

Only to rebunk the lies from the GOP. They are spreading lies that he is a Muslim, hates America...did I mention he is black. The smear machines of the GOP are licking the lips wait to attack. The more he tells us about him the harder it would be for the lies to stick

Yes, unfortunately there are still people who believe the smears! He is not well known, and America needs to get use to seeing him!

He only needs to introduce himself to those who haven't watched any of the debates or CNN for the last year or so.

What's to reintroduce? If there is that much difference between the primary and the general it may be time to reconsider voting at all.

First, let's have McCain introduce himself. He's flip flopped so many times until it will make your head spin. Obama has given his life history from childhood. McCain has only given history as a POW and a Senator, where's his life in between the two and why isn't anyone asking.

He already is doing that. He's introducing the voters to his new and improved views on things like campaign finance and NAFTA. I'm anxious to hear his new and improved position on Iraq!

Well, Jack, after his latest stance on the FISA Bill, you bet your sweet rolls he needs to! PRIMARILY with his EXISITING but dwindling support base. We're feeling particularly winded after feeling like he has kicked just us in the gut!

Trusting that since he's a Constitutional Lawyer, he knows of some sure-fired way to "tar & feather" all of those quilty, indulgent bu$h-whackers/enablers! I'll hold my "fight/flight" response until I see where this dust settles!

I'm glad you asked this Jack because this idea of "re-introduction" has really been sticking in my craw lately.

Re-introduction is really just code for "correction" especially where Michelle Obama is concerned but certainly with Barack as well.

Since when have we had to re-introduce candidates anyway?

Doesn't this simply boil down to the fact that–Now that Obama is the presumptive nominee and a formidable candidate in the general election, the country has to be "corrected" on their xenophobic ideas (ideas perpetuated by the Clinton campaign and the far right), like:
1. he's NOT a Muslim (like there would be something wrong if he
was)
2. she's not anti-American...

the list goes on ad nauseam but you get the idea

No, Barack Obama does not need to reintroduce himself. Unless you have been living under a rock, you should know something about him. He is a new revolutionary to the Democratic Party and has and will bring about real chance to the people of the United States. He is a role model to many minorities especially African American's because he shows that there is nothing that you can't accomplish if you set your mind to it.

T- Chicago, IL

Sure he does. Hard as it is to believe, Jack, the majority of voters aren't political junkies like us who stay glued to cable TV and the internet all day, monitoring the gravity of every pragmatic move he makes. He needs to counter all the whispered rumors by showing himself as a regular American guy who believes in regular American stuff.

His new ad does this nicely. Running it in red states may force McCain to spend money there, but it *also* makes him a familiar presence should he win the presidency and want as many Americans listening to him as possible when he takes to the bully pulpit. Obama's always 3 steps ahead of most of pundit-land in strategic thinking.

Hey, wait a minute there, Skippy! Why aren't we demanding that John McCain "re-introduce" HIMSELF, since HE'S the one that's flip-flopped on EVERY SINGLE ISSUE that "the maverick" once stood for & believed so strongly in?

Obama doesn't need to reintroduce–that would be impossible–but he needs to refine his image. Fighting the smears online and his new biography TV ad are helping to do this. Refining his image will cement his solid block of Democratic voters, reassure Clinton supporters, and hopefully sway some independents.

No, someone in the media should introduce the public to the real McCain. What a free ride he has been getting from the media.

No...he needs to stay focused on showing the American voters why he is the better choice for this country right now. His best strategy...talk about things that play to the emotions of the American people instead of the actual issues. This seems to be what will work out best since the vast majority of voters seem to have no clue why they will be going to the voting booths this November anyway!

No, I think everyone knows who the candidates are and where they stand. They couldn't be further away on issues, appeal, or motivation. They are so opposite, it's almost like they are black and white...

Wildwood Crest, NJ

Politics is a continual process of introductions and re-introductions. Obama is going to have to fill the void with voters of uncertainities and continue to reenforce his postion on the major issues and problems facing the nation. Americans have an idea who Obama is; now he is going to have to demonstrate what he is made of. He has talked the talk, now he has to walk the walk.

It's not reintroduction, it's continuous Introduction. There are plenty of people still out there that only take their information from screaming pundits (no, not you Jack) and 20 second bite quote contextomy.

If I'm still getting emails and comments on my youtube that repeat the sad, sad lies already disproved, it's clear that there are those that do not know Barack about Obama.

Not at all Jack–However he needs to try and avoid the pitfalls that come with a campaign that has 4 1/2 months to go i.e. staying on message and avoiding any Rev Wright controversies. I dare to say his lead in the polls will not hold but we will see.

No, thank yoiu. We have met him and he is morphing into someone unrecognizable. Let's see how he deals with FISA and Iraq spending before we decide on whether he needs to reintroduce himself.

Why would he want to do that Jack? They find out who he really is it'll ruin everything for all those who believe in fairy tales!

Larry in Florida

After sixteen months!!! I like him, I know about as much as I could know–I read a lot! AND I like him enough to be sending him $10 every couple weeks!!!! Just sent $25. I'm doing this so our country and great American middle will still be here for my grandchildren!!! AND I'm white, 64 and female!!

I think most people already know who Barack Obama is. He need not re-introduce himself, but clerify where his stand is on some issues. While I support Sen Obama, I find some things a little vague or perhaps he has changed significantly his stand. The issue of NAFTA is the most significant change I have seen, I do not think NAFTA is good for the US and he has mellowed, there are others he needs to clarify or enhance the knowledge voters have. Otherwise I feel he is well known enough to just continue to positivlely portray his feeling of hope fo all of us.

I think it is necessary for him to reintroduce himself, as he originally portrayed himself as the candidate for 'change'. Recently he changed his mind on public financing for his campaign. And over the weekend he decided to "support the compromise" FISA bill that passed the House on Friday, even though last February he was against the bill. I think most voters are under the impression that the 'change' Obama has been speaking about was a change from the way politicians normally act; from his actions the only change I think we will get is better speech writing.

Yes and No. In some states, he will have to reintroduce himself. These are states in which he was not really considered, or heavily slammed by other candidates. Now that he is the Democratic candidate, he needs to reach those people.

On the other hand, he is well known and liked in many states. In those states, he just needs to keep reinforceing the message.

Hello Jack;
I think that that the majority of the people that voted for him still know, and believe that he is still the same person they voted for. He should be very careful to make sure that he does not come on any different than that person. Voters should more concerned with the person he may re-introduce himself as, if he is indeed elected President. Some folks do change after they get what they have gone after....... Sad,but true,this is a common trait among politicians.....

Yes, Obama does need to keep introducing himself to the voters. As hard as it is to believe, there are some folks who have not been paying attention to all of these political stories. There are a lot of inaccurate stories planted on the web which attempt to scare voters. Obama needs to continually report the truth and introduce himself. As people meet him, they will support him.

Yes,there are alot of people out there who still aten't paying attention. Obama is running as a candidate of change, and the more he explains his stands the more converts he'll get. He got me in his camp when he went for real public financing, I'm sure others will be moved by his other plans to make government work for us.

Well Jack, I thought that's what Sen. Obama was doing these last few days with the "info-ad's" he's been running. But, I was sold on Sen. Obama when John Edwards endorsed Sen. Obama & Sen. Clinton dropped out.
I'm a white woman & I am not afraid of Sen. Obama & will vote for him. I will not let my white friends use "the terror card", nor will I allow them to intimidate me on my vote. Only Sen. Obama can cause me to change my mind. But, regardless of what happens, there will never be a moment where I will even think about voting for John McCain.
Sen. Obama will not re-institute slavery against whites or in any other way circumvent our constitution. George Bush has done that already.
Patricia
Palmdale, Ca.

Sure, why not? Just do a 30 second T.V. add where he's sitting in a preschool room circle: "Hi, my name's Barack Obama. I'm not a Muslim and never have been. I love America and always have. My wife loves America and always has. I want what is best for my daughters and the future of the country I love, not month-long band aids. I have not voted in 95% congruence with President Bush. I have earned everything I am today. I don't have 100 million dollars and my own private jet so I need to count on the people's faith and generosity to help me defeat smear campaigns. Finally, in light of important CIA info that Michael Jordan and Tiger Woods fist bump they will go to the top of my "Terrorists Most Wanted" list. Thank you."

Yes he does Jack. First off, when running in the primaries alot of people chose a candidate and did not really pay close attention to what the other candidates had to say. So, he does need to retell his life's story. Now that he is facing the GOP he really need to be proactive and ready for whatever they put out there. You know the old boxing saying he needs to stick and move.

Jack,

He requires more reinforcement of himself and his positions than a reintroduction. His message needs to address more specific platforms than the generalization of "Change". He has been a master of delivering his message so far, but now requires to fill it out with a little (or a lot) of meat. He also needs to explain changes in his position to prevent the label of "flip flopper". We all understnd that time and circumstances require a reevaluation of one's position, and this should be emphasized whenever a modification of position is announced.

He doesn't need to reintroduce himeself, he needs an educaion in reality as does most of the media. He insist we can find alternate means of energy, such as ethanol which so far has only driven up the cost of food and takes more energy to produce. When will these people wake up and realize practical alternates sources of energy are years away, and China and India are adding automobiles at an astounding rate as their standard of living rises.

If he dosen't we all know the republican smear (or is that fear) machine will try to do it for him. The more the public gets to know Obama the bigger the landslide will be in November.

yes! but only because he spent much of his time fending off hillary's constant attacks. he has always been rather shaky on the issues.
and as such, most intellegent voters do not know him. politicians like lawers, are spin doctors. and during the democratic primary. we realized that hillary was given to over exagerate, and make false accusations against her oppenents. thats why she lost, regardless of what some of her supporters say.. just more SPIN!.
many republicans have NEVER liked mcain. why, because he tends to NOT VOTE PARTY LINE. at least thats what the neeeeeeeeews networks have been telling us for years

Yes. He need to emphasize that he is not from "elite" roots and that he knows what it is like to work for a living. He needs to concentrate on giving the voters a sense of who he is, because many people don't want to take the time to find out for themselves.

I don't think Obama needs to reintroduce himself. Everyone knows who he is. I think he should just continue to reveal where he stands on the issues. Reintroducing is a waste of time.

Kim, Dodge City. Kansas

I agree with you 100%. Obama needs to set the pace for this general election and not let McCain call the shots.

He has side stepped and flipped and refused to answer some important questions on too many things . A lot of people are rethinking Obama. I believe it is to late since there has been so much that he has flushed town the toilet to hide. Then acts like he is picked on when some of the crap comes to light.

Yes, because now he has to move back towards the center to pick up the Independents, just like any politician for either party. They always start at the extremes for the primaries, and drift back to center.

Jack,

Thanks to the century long Democratic Primary, Obama has been in every state of the nation – and Puerto Rico!. He doesn't need to reintroduce himself but he needs to stay on the trail and continue his dialogue with the voters about the issues. McSame and his yoyo (you're on your own) economics are a continuation of the Bush Administration and will only help the rich and powerful – this needs to be said every second, every hour, every day,every week, every month until the election in November.

I haven't really learned anything from Obama in the time that we've had already, I am not sure how any re-introduction will help. From what I have gathered the only real change Obama brings is a change of race. Other than that, he has the same positions as Hillary, with the exception that he opposed Iraq from the get-go.

To get an answer to this question all you have to do is watch the Republican strategists on CNN trying to make excuses or use lame arguments to support McCain over Obama.

When these people can't come up with any common sense reasons for supporting McCain it is a stretch to think Obama needs to do much at all to win in November.

Obama's best bet is to give McCain some money so he can make more personal appearances because people shouldn't need any more reason to vote for Obama than looking at the alternative!

Jack, it;s not necessary because he's in a political game with John McCain and what he stands for at this moment may subtly change as the combatants near the finish line. They are both trying to read the tea leaves to see which view is the most favorable with voters and then bend their rhetoric to suit the situation. I would have thought the Republicans more likely to have taken a position and stuck to it no matter what as part of their trademark strategy but McCain's recent position changes makes him seem more like a person questioning his beliefs.

Jack,
Definitely in order to reintroduce himself to the voters before the Republican Party labels him the way they want, like a tax and spend liberal. Especially in key swing states and in red states leaning towards McBush across the country...

C.I., New York

No, a reintroduction is not necessary, he won’t change. His rhetoric will continue to ebb and flow with the political demands of a campaign and only mask his radical activist views that the condition of many in our urban populations is beyond their own responsibility and the fault of others.

Yes, but in a different context that what has happened during the primaries. The differences between himself and Hillary pale in comparison to those between himself and McCain. This is a different election and he needs to re-cast himself in that light.

Yes, especially in states like Kentucky. He needs to visit the small towns, forget the suit and tie, and talk about his childhood and what he wants to do for the "little guy." These people dont have cable news and probably don't read newspapers much.

I don't know ... maybe Obama would be smart to just skip Kentucky, much like he did during the primaries. A very good friend of mine is afraid to put an Obama sign in her yard – she and her husband have Master's degrees but say their neighbors might not take too kindly to that sign!

To some voters, yes he does, Jack... And he's doing a solid job of it, thus far.

No he doesn't need to re-introduce himself. What he needs to do is take some advanced speech classes and drop that staccato-pause speech impediment he seems to have. He also needs to learn how to speak concisely and make it clear to everyone how we are going to fix this country, with cold hard solutions. Really it's just a matter of fine-tuning how great he already is, but important nonetheless.

I have a pretty good idea of who Barack Obama is, but then I've been watching this dog and pony show for more than a year. Since most Americans won't really get into the process until September he may want to wait before he peaks too soon.

Wouldn't do any good. The first impression is the most important. Obama has done an excellent job in letting voters know what he stands for. Anyone who doesn't know him by now doesn't really care. If he "reintroduces" himself now, he would in essence have to "reinvent" his image (sort of like Michelle Obama), which would undoubtedly be lacking compared to the "dream candidate" his supporters fell in love with in the beginning.

As long as there are these false statements being made via the internet then sadly, yes. After 16 months there are still people out there who believe Barack Obama is a Muslim. People believe this even after his very public break from his Christian pastor. They want to say he sat in that church for 20 years even though he was really a muslim, thats ridiculous. This says to me that some people just want to believe these things because they are simply ignorant. Unfortunatley the only way to get people to see who Sen. Obama really is is to just tell them over and over. I suspect though if people still don't know who he is by November it is because they don't want to know him.

If you can't see who he is after 16 months, that's a pretty big problem....he is excellent at describing problems, not so good at detailing solutions...that's all I need to know.

A lot of voters know nothing about Obama personally. He neds to introduce himself to these people. The Republicans are already pushing their vrsion.

What Obama needs to do is vote against the FISA bill. That will show people that he is for the Rule of Law,the Constitution and the American citizen! Lets see the Republicans top that.

Hell No! Unless you've had your head buried in the sand for the past 16 months, not only does everyone know who Barak Obama is but his campaign slogan, "Yes We Can" is seared permanently into our brains! He now needs to introduce the rest of his campaign slogan to voters "How We Can" and he only has four short months to do it!

No, he shouldn’t. What's wrong with the way he has introduced himself the first time? If the initial introduction got him this far, why fix it, if it aint broke? But the fact that questions like this have to be asked, with respect to Obama and not McCain, shows that Obama will undoubtedly have to work hard to appease the fears of those who are still not comfortable with his race.

I don't think so. The bottom line where the next election is concerned is thus: a voter can vote for more war, more bad economics, more debt, more deficit, no energy policy, no ideas, tax breaks for the rich, no address of the issues of our time. Basically more Bush. OR voters can vote for change if but only by the fact that Democrats are of a completely different ideology than the Bush/McCain/Limbaugh/Fox/Hannity/OReilly right wing nut case party of the war-crazed war-bucks rich.

Yes Thats what america wants its like chivalry ,we love to be wooed and told we are important ,its a test of malamility can he stand the test of being molded by the American people .Does he have the patience, to understand the request of different ideas, can he guide us to the top without sacrificeing the poor and working class, the single mothers and such can he give us the hope Of the American dream.

Yes he does...with Hillary on one side and Michelle on the other. If he can keep the peace between those two, then I have no doubt that he'll be able to extend peace around the world.

Definitely, before the Republicans jump ahead to do it for him. And on the way, He should also try to redefine McCain for who he is: A 3rd Bush term, a political status quo...and a flip-flopper

A wise man once said, "you never get a second chance to make a first impression." Obviously, this dude didn't know much about Presidential politics. Take Hillary Clinton for example. We've known her for over a decade, but until the OH and PA primaries, when she needed critical blue collar votes, did she become the populist championion of the common man - exactly the image that kept her in the race until the very end. If $109 million Hillary can "reinvent" herself to the tune of 18 million votes, anyone can. It's never too late for a political makeover.

Jack it is a wonder why his about face on campaign finance has not been positively received. It means that the government will have 84 million dollars to send to Iraq. Is that not a positive contribution for McCain's 100 year war?

Obama reintroducing himself? Since he's been turned inside out by the media, what more is there possibly to know about him? His choice of shampoo? Shoe size? Nope, got that.
But how about an introduction of Mr. McCain? What do we really know about him? How much attention has the media given to his Keating-five-membership? How about his military records? Who exactly is Grumman? Why was he called "McNasty" in his highschool days? And speaking of highschool, why not mention his poor performance there while you're at it? Exactly how many planes did he crash? What was the name of that stripper he briefly dated? And how about his elitist upbringing and elitist outlook on life? So many fun facts to explore. When's the media going to start reporting on them? Maybe they're afraid, after all, the man's been a POW, have to respect that. And we do, it's just that, having been a POW doesn't necessarily make you a good person or fit to be president.

Jack, Obama needs to lay out his record of legislative accomplishment in the US and IL Senate. Since that will take about 2 minutes, I'm not sure what else he has to talk about until November. Can we get Rev. Wright back?

Reintroducing himself will not help as long as he keeps flip-flopping on the things he said in order to become the presumptive nominee of the Democrat Party. There are a lot of people who were not comfortable when he won the nomination, and many of those will stay away from the polls, as will I. Flip flopping is lying to me, and I 'm not voting for a liar.

I think it's a good idea, especially if he keeps it short and stays on message. It would be a good way to bring in new voters who hadn't considered him before.

Strong Obama supporters like myself don't want to come across as being in some special club – everyone is welcome and it's never too late to say "Yes we can!"

Boise, ID

No...he is already a "brand" like any other politician. But here's an idea...how about if he starts talking about how he'll actually help Americans economically, how he'll decrease our gas prices, and how he'll still keep us safe after the iraq war ends? Maybe if we spent more time questioning all politicians about these things (and spent less time worrying about Michelle Obama's dress) we'd come up with some solutions to the problems that really concern Americans.
Jenn Cape Cod

Hey Jack,
Obama does not need to re-introduce himself to me. I learned enough about him the first time around that he scares me to death. I think he and his wife are trying to re-invent themselves as Ozzie and Harriet. I don't think so!
Linda in So. Indiana

Mike from Syracuse--

You took the words right out of my mouth!!!! As far as I know Obama does not need to reintroduce himself I see him as the politician he is, same ol', same ol' polictics just tried to disguise it with a different "Change" wrapping.

I wonder when are people going to wake up and smell the coffee..

With the short termed memory of the american voter, I think he needs to reintroduce himself three or four more times.

Yes, good idea. He's only been the presumptive nominee Democratic Candidate for a few weeks. Former Clinton voters may be pleasantly surprised, Republican and other Party voters may sway his way. Some people could start by reading his two books (which he wrote himself). He is an amazing candidate and he should probably put some modesty aside and show the masses more of what he is about in a way that they can understand. The U. S. A. and Washington, D. C. needs positive long term change now, Senator Obama is the man to get it going. He's been the best CEO campaign manager in years, he'd be the best CEO White House manager in many years to come.

Jack, in the primaries we were not voting for President, but now this is for real. Too many people look forward to the changes he promises, but in reality do not know him well. Moreover, this is coupled with a special event in history when we could elect the first African-American as our leader. The more he introduces or reintroduces himself to the voter, the more support he may receive and the better his chances of being elected our President in November.

2 years and I still don't know who this guy is, I do know he is a politcan just like the rest change give me a break...took the money and ran.... Atleast I could understand Hiliary even if I did not agree give me a break..... theses stories are boring....

If they have been paying attention, they should know him by now. On the other hand "theres none so blind as those that don't want to see'
JS North Carolina

Yes, now that Obama is the Democratic nominee...he does need to introduce himself to the public again. Hillary supporters were busy following her news and Republicans were busy watching their own nomination process. So there are probably many voters who really do need to "get to know" Barack Obama.

Well Jack maybe he does to all the people that slept through the primaries. After all look who got the GOP candidate it must of been Abien reaction of sleep voting.
Paul
Texas

Why bother? He'll just morph into something else. Sadly, for someone who claims to be a new breed of candidate, he's exhibiting typical, old breed-style political gamesmanship just like he did in Chicago. He gives a good speech, promises hope, then does the same old thing - anything to win. In that sense, he's no better than McCain.

McCain had a three month head start on Obama. If your living as a hermit somewhere, His record is has been out there. This is a geniune man who loves his country. Maybe a little intro ad for Obama for those living under a rock. But back to the ad issues and speeches. Hell take McCain on for a couple eary townhalls. Just don't let him dictate the rules.

Go Obama!

Michael
Oil City. PA

Yes, he needs to reintroduce himself to the people and for one very good reason: He was campaigning against Hillary Clinton, and I could not fail to notice that he often simply agreed with whatever she herself said in answer to a specific question. Now that he is on his own, without the advantage of having someone to answer the questions for him, I'd like to know what his responses are on his own. Now that he has no lead to follow, we need to know his own thoughts on specific issues, and that - and only that - will tell us who he truly is.

Teresa
Atlanta, GA

I've been married to the same woman for 38 years. There are many days when I feel I don't know her.

Yes he does. On his decision to opt out of public financing. Why not? The Republican party has all the cooperate money, therefore McCain get the benefit of it. The DNC is broke so it fall to Obama to raise money for his general election campaign. Should work out about even.

I don't think so. He'll have several months, after the Democratic Convention, to re-introduce himself to the American public. Then you and those in your profession will bore me well past tears while you earnestly attempt to split hairs and nuances to sub-atomic particles in an effort to keep the American voting public, who just don't care, informed. After going through this election cycle a theocracy, dictatorship, or monarchy don't look so bad.

I feel like I know enough about Senator Obama already...

1. flip-flopped on accepting Public Funds
2. His association with the FAR left
3. His flip-flopping on the INFORMAL debates between him and Senator McCain
4. His views on Taxes
5. His views on Abortion
6. His views on Gun-Control
7. His lack of a SENSIBLE resolution to our nations energy crises

I feel he is so liberal it will not matter, to me anyways, how many times he reintroduces himself. I personally feel that he just enjoys making that hope speech over and over.....

Considering the number of people that think he is a Muslim or under the control of a preacher, he needs to do *something* to set the record straight. The McCain campaign isn't likely to do it for him.

Why? What about Johnny who really knows him? That right he's has been in DC for 200 hundred years and we all know him NOT!

Jack,
The man needs no introduction, Americans and the whole world love him. i fell in love with him since oprah uttered the words Barack Obama on the Larry King show. when i heard her say the name, i said, who is this man, and when i saw him and his views on how to change Washington, it was love at first sight! however the small percentage of his haters, will just have to adjust, you hear that Leslie Sanchez?

Obama needs to keep introducing himslef simply because some people just never got a chance to get to know him during the primaries. He needs to continue to reach out to different goups including the Arab American community which is a three and a half million strong. He needs to be more even handed and campaign in support of them as much as he did the jewish voters. He also needs to do more to reach out to the latin voters. There are many groups who are not feeling personal satisfaction or getting a personal message from Obama that need to hear from him. He is a great candidate and will be a great president, one small group can make a difference in a tight race, especially when people don't really know you and you are a fairly new politician.

Please Jack. People get married and know less about their mate than we know about Obama. The only thing that we still don't know if is it boxers or briefs, even though some journalists have asked.

Dear Mr. Cafferty,

If you will allow me, I would like to save the good senator the time and effort. The following Public Service Announcement should once and for all wake up all those individuals that have been somnambulating on Mars for the last year and a half. "Ahem. Ladies and Gentlemen, Let me introduce to you, Barack Obama, the next President of the United States." There, that should settle that. Can I go now?

Love,
Pippie

Senator Obama is left-handed and write upside down. If he tries to reintroduce himself it will be an upside down interduction and who would understand the story. By the way I am left-handed and write upside down so I know what I am talking about (75 Years). Of course you understand Senator Obama very well that amazing. Nobody ever understood the story I told.

Jack, here is a message for the folks that need to be reintroduced to Obama. Their is an electronic device called a television that you can purchase at a reasonable price at many stores. Plug it in, call your cable company for hook up. You can try the "rabbit ears" as an antenna but they will be obselete in February 2009. Tin Foil will improve your signal on the antenna for a quick fix. If you really want good information on Obama or McCain you need cable so you can watch CNN for 24-7 news. If that is too complicated you can stiil get your news reading the newspaper by candlelight.

Kevin
Warren, MI

Jack,
The man needs no introduction, Americans and the whole world love him. i fell in love with him since oprah uttered the words Barack Obama on the Larry King show. when i heard her say the name, i said, who is this man, and when i saw him and his views on how to change Washington, it was love at first sight! however the small percentage of his haters will just have to adjust. You heard that leslie sanchez?

To find out who he is after he is president will be tooooo late.
I know who he is..I've heard about 18 mths of it.
I want to know WHAT THE CHANGES WILL BE...
I haven't heard anything yet. What are the changes I can believe in?

Ofcourse, he does. Unless a politician can re-invent himself there can be no real change!

Jack right now it doesn't matter where he came from,the important thing is where he is going. As a Roman Catholic I couldn't/t give a hoot what his religion is we are voting for his Leadership as the next President of the United States Of America.

There have been so many smears of his good name that I think it is the right thing to do. Literacy is not as prevalent as it should be, and there are still many voters who don't follow the details in a campaign.

For example, the "public funds" he is turning down should be explained to the people as American " taxpayer's money" which fortunately he no longer needs to get his message across. It will take a lot of explaining to get that fact and others across to them. You don't have to be literate to vote.

Yes, Jack! Many prople weren't paying attention during the primary...Obama's got to start all over again and actually run in the Red States. That will cause McSame to have to spend more of that $85 million in those safe states (he'll be broke by October). Gotta send my "guy" (Obama) some more money...$50 a month should help him out until the General Election.

Jack right now it doesn't matter where he came from,the important thing is where he is going. As a Roman Catholic I couldn't give a hoot what his religion is we are voting for his Leadership as the next President of the United States Of America.

there are so many misconceptions about both Obama the man and the candidate that he definately needs to correct them. just the fact that some 15% of the electorate is so stupid that they think he's a muslim proves that. he also needs to be more specific on his plans for turning the economy around if elected.

Considering 10% of the voting electorate still thinks he is a Muslim, I don't think it can hurt to make his history and positions clear to the idiots who don't bother to find out for themselves.

I believe that Barack believes he needs to reintroduce himself to attempt to hide the truth that he is the most liberal senator in the game. Also the wolf needs to work hard to hide himself with his sheeps clothing. Perhaps buying the presidency is the American dream. If that is the case and experience means nothing, then I vote for Bill Gates.

Yes. This is very smart politics. The best defense is a good offense and that is exactly what Barack Obama is doing ahead of the negative neo con rumor machine.

So if Barak Obama is for "Kansas values" of accoutnability and self reliance, then why are the "Changes" he is promoting more socialistic that geard toward the individual pulling themselves up by their boot straps?

Oh Jack what he was doing early on, I think, was better than what he is doing now. He needs too lose the I'm better than McCain blah blah blah and run the old in your face this is what we can do and have to do.

A as a independent I was really impressed early on with him.

I DON"T AGREE with any of this NO OFF SHORE DRILLING. The north slope could be drilled with minimal impact.

Yet I agree that we need to talk, rather than invade.

He needs a short break and then to come out swinging to get my vote.

Reintroductions are not necessary...continuing to let the American voters know MORE about you and your plans...well...nuff said.

No, Jack, after a 16-month primary campaign, it is not time for Obama to re-introduce himself to the voters. What it is time for is for the voters to go back and thoroughly study Obama's past political history including his voting record for his time in the Senate. Now is the time to take a hard look at what he has done and not just accept what he says he will do if elected. Actions really do speak louder than words and promises.
Brownwood, Texas

Hi Jack,

First let me thank you as for being the best there is on CNN. You, like Obama, tell it like it is.

Obama inspired me (not easy as a 64 year old white woman who is voting for the first time) as he represents our future and future generations. That our young are supporting him should be an indication of what's been missing in Washington. I am funding him through small donations every time I get paid! Am I not the "public"? Instead of tax money paying for his campaign, we "the people" are paying and we can use the tax money to build bridges and levee's.

A quote from JFK seems fitting for answering if he needs to re-introduce himself.
"Let the word go forth, from this time and this place, to friend and foe alike, that the torch has been passed to a new generation of Americans..."
Please let's pass it as we've messed it up badly!

He has the money to do a targeted reintrduction, even going to non-tradtional audiences. Its brilliant. Expect much more along that vein, and with the money Obama has, he can run a campaign based on politics rather than nickel and dimes.

NO!!!!!!!
Now Obama should stick to the issues. What is his plan for health care? What is he going to do about the Recession? What is his plan for The Energy crisis? I dont care what the GOP is saying,they pretty much have shot their load in the last eight years.

I also think the oil crisis is a hoax dreamed up by a has been oilman.

GO BARACK

I believe both Obama and McCain need to extract themselves from their polarized constituancies and face the real problems created during the past 8 years by the "George and Dick" comedy-of-errors show. Can we be more screwed up than we are today? If so, let's become Bahamians and just party to the end.

The truth is the Bush Era is one of the worst in our history. It will take a true visionary to set our course on a positive track. We need a "Kennedy-esk" move to reestablish the US as the dominant world economic power. We are no better than 3rd today and heading to 25th (per capita).

I'm looking for a leader and neither has shown any leadership qualities.

Yes...only because of all the foolish talk that was put out by the media in an attempt to crash him and his campaign. He fought back with the truth, hard work and determination. And won! and Bill Clinton still hasn't endorsed him, wonder if Hillary will run as a 3rd party. She didn't concede has keep her delegates maybe that is why Bill hasn't endorsed.

According to your Republican Contributor Leslie Sanchez, Obama's 600 million will buy a whole lot of introductions. But will it buy him love? It better not, for her sake and for the sakes of the rest of her cronies.

How many times will this guy re-invent himself? He's been running for President almost since the day he came to the Senate. We don't need to know more about his manufactured image, we need to know more about his past activities and associates. We need to know more about his voting record. We need to know more about his potential policies and the effects on the American public. We don't need to see anymore gauzy looking ads where he portrays himself as some sort of middle American.

Though it's not absolutely necessary, it's helpful considering he's just recovered from a hard fought primary battle with Clinton. Strangely enough, he has more time now to clarify his agenda since he's not dodging as much mud anymore.

Yes he does, and he should explain his slow drift to the right

.
Hi Jack,

The only people Barack Obama needs to introduce himself to are the ones that have been out of the country for the last 6 months or living in a cave.

This guy has been on the cover of every major paper, magazine, TV show... I would love to know how anyone could have missed him.

Ps my choice for VP is Kathleen Sebelius

Barack Obama / Kathleen Sebelius 08

Barack Obama / Kathleen Sebelius 08

Well, it will give him the opportunity to change his position on another issue.

The key here is that he needs to introduce himself, not be introduced by others. The misconceptions about Obama, from his heritage to his friends, are much better known than the man himself.

Yes Jack he should, only the people that keeps blogging over and over really know about know the canidates.... he should re-iterate himself for all the new political junkies that pull in on a daily basis and by the way if McCain can stand up and remind people who he was a POW on every boring speech... why Obama can' not become a parrot as well!

The only people who don't know Barack by now either can't read newspapers or do not have radio or TV.

Oh for God sake – give it a rest – who cares about Obama reintroducing himself. He needs to get real and be honest. He is just another politician. he must be worried about his image – oh I wonder why.

Why reintroduce himself? He's run an excellent campaign for the last 16 months and he will continue to do so. He has given countless speeches and done a great job of familiarizing his views and interests with the American people.

Jack I love you and if you were running for any office I would vote for you, since you seem to to be the only unbiased person on CNN Situation Room. The answer to your question is noooooooooooooooooooo.

Chicago Bob,
What exactly are Barack Obama's acocmplishments? I don't think being a "community organizer" is exactly a plus for being President.
I have seen no indiction that Obama can work across the aisle and cooperate with Republicans on important issues. He toes the Democrat party line at every turn. Like I said, where are his big accomplishments? Voting "present" one hundred some times in the Illinois legislature is certainly not something brag about.

I don't think he necessarily has to reintroduce himself, but it is a good idea, considering all of the folks out there that are spreading blatant lies about him and his past. The voters need to realize that he's not only more like them than McCain could ever be, but also that everything circulating around the internet are lies. But, since relatively large number of Americans can't even find our country on a globe, I'm a little, say, skeptical that they'll be able to look past the lies and venture into the land of reality. It's nice here; maybe more folks ought to come visit more often.

Absolutely. Obama scares me. All I know is he is going to raise my taxes and get the government involved in my health care. I agree with his social rhetoric. But, knowing what a mess the Federal Government is, I don't want them taking more of my hard earned money to redistribute it inefficiently, ineffectively, and tell me it is for my own good. NO THANKS.

No , but if I was him, I'd keep telling people that I do pledge the flag, and the photo was of the anthem not pledging the flag. Also some hicks still thinks he is a Muslim. On second thought, let McSame be the so called "maverick". John can tell people the truth about Barack. Let's see him be a real MAVERICK. He knows all these rumors to be false. If he is man enough, he will do it.

Yes, Obama must reintroduce himself. It's something John McCain should consider as well. Many voters don't pay attention to the primaries because there are too many choices, and it takes too much energy to get to know them all. Many people are starting to pay attention to politics for the first time since the last election, and Obama's reintroduction should really help among these new listeners.

hi jack, yeah, i think so. the way people have been struggling and distracted with the high prices of everything, it's very possible many folks forgot or never had the chance to sit down and find out who the heck he is.

Yes, he does, Jack. He's not only re-introducing himself, he's showing how he can move towards the center showing very the conservative America that he's really not different than they are when it comes to daily life: to him family, good health and faith are above all. And when it comes to kitchen table issues, he's right there, and the best thing, he's the candidate who can help most with these issues that are causing ulcers for lots of people.

Joel

Obama needs to reintroduce himself to the American people because Clinton had 18 million people watching her intently, and weren't paying much attention to what Obama had to say. As an aside, if Obama doesn't select Hillaery Clinton as his VP, he may find the race to be much closer than he really wants it. If he does, they will win in a landslide.
Frank
Sunrise, FL

Dear Sir,

living in Germany, I have been following this extraordinarily interesting election campaign for the US presidency for more than a year.

I – and probably – most of the rest of the world – already know Obama's story and political ideas.

It is astonishing that he still needs (re-)introduction 'within' the United States at all...

Tariq, Germany

Reintroduce himself? After all this time I still haven't a clue who he is. I'm still waiting for a definition of Change! Until he can answer a question thats not prewritten or without a thousand Umm's I don't think the American people will ever know who he is.

He's already reintroducing himself. He's reintroduced his position on NAFTA and campaign financing. I look forward to the day after winning the election when President Elect Obama announces he's reintroduced his position on our troops in Iraq and announces there's no change in policy.

I'm not sure that re-introducing himself is going to help him...the media has been providing quite the introduction and cheering section for many months now. I think people already know what a fraud he really is, and on election day he will be "shown up".

Coming from Chicago. I know more about Obama than I ever cared to. Hope? Give me a break!

He has constantly re-introduced himself throughout his campaign, every time he panders to different groups. So this is nothing new. Obama can not be trusted with his constant lies and hypocrisy.

I keep getting emails telling me he is a muslim, he is inexperienced, he is too young, he has a crazy Reverand, the list goes on. Some people will never focus and make an effort to try and find out what the truth is. They prefer to listen to all this crap and ignore the truth. For some people a re-introduction won't work, nothing will.

The only way a reintroduction would be necessary is if he padded it with experience and actual methods of carrying out his change mantra.

GO MCCAIN!

I like the direction of his ads. Many of us are fully familiar with Obama, supporting him throughout the campaign... but how can it hurt to show that he's a regular person with a regular family, caring about the same things we do?
I think many forget he is half-white and has grown up in places other than Chicago. Sad to say that there are some who associate black and Chicago with negative images.

With respect to the negativity around his recent decision, it's funny how the GOPs resent losing at their OWN game, isn't it? With Bob Barr draining the more conservative Republicans from McCain's camp, it sort of reminds us Dems of many an election year in the past – limited funds, third-party candidates, etc, etc.

Go Obama!

Yes he must redefine himself in this general election because
it's a whole new playing field.He must implement a revised stratagy
to confront the Repubkicans in this election.

Succinctly,
Susan
Ocala,Fla.

yes, Obama does need to re-introduce himself to the American people because he has been about not flip-flopping your mind on issues and other Washington dealings, but he himself has flip-flopped just recently and he needs to work on what he wants to talk about because this is one thing that is done in Washington and I thought he was about change?!

Of course he does. There are still people that think Obama is a Muslim. Furthermore, despite the primary season being a historic roller coaster drama, most of America was tuned into another election called American Ideal.

As for the people that tuned into the primaries, totally mesmerized by John King's crafty ability of manipulating the magic wall, Obama and his wife will get an opportunity to relaunch their image and clean off the dirt that was flung at them by Camp Hillary.

Coming from Chicago. I know more about Obama than I ever cared to. Hope? Give me a break!

Barrack Obama needs to come clean with why he only calls himself Barrack after answering to the first name of Barry for the first 44 years of his life. Only in the last three or so years of his political life has he become known as "Barrack". Folks usually change their name when aspirations that require other clandestine actions on their behal are in play...why is he not still "Barry"? Of course this only touches the tip of this unknown iceberg. There is so much unknown about this man, that the only reality going on here is that most of his supporters are seeing this purported change that he brings as president, as a color change in a long known for its electees place of residence, as the "Whitehouse".

Only those living under a rock would need to learn who he is at this point! It might be best for the media to start concentrating on who Jobn McCain ISN'T!! I cannot under stand how you in the media just give Mr. McCain a constant "pass" on his platforms and B.S. Get with it media. YOU need to be asking the questions FOR the American people!

John
Missoula, MT

From Jessica in WV

Of course he should reintroduce himself. With all the false rumors flying around the internet it certainly couldn't hurt to educate the public on fact versus fiction. Then again,the people I know who actually beleive he's a radical muslim will not change their minds know matter how many people show proof he's not.

Yes, lots of us already know what he is about, but there as many if not more on the edge with mistrust, old values playing out in their voting dynamics,, and really never seriously considered him until now.
It's sort of like a potential inlaw being consider as a member to the family, you gotta' know more before you can bring him into the fold.