This culture of "pay to play" is woven into the fabric of Philadelphia political customs and religious ethos - and now that it is defied, the fury of hell is about to be released. In fact, the true colors of political leeches and chameleons in Philadelphia are about to be put on display - they are going to flee the Obama camp for "greener" pastures. Neighborhood political leaders are actually warning that if Obama withholds moneys normally given by those who run for office, there will be defections.
But Obama's refusal to grease the palms of a few to get the vote of the masses will in the long run benefit the community. This strategy will ultimately empower the masses and ostensibly put election pimping on the list of extinct species. I'm convinced that it's not business as usual with Obama - it's business the right way.
Terrence D. Griffith, Pastor,
First African Baptist Church
Editor's note: Rev. Griffith is also a vice president of the Black Clergy of Philadelphia and Vicinity.
Media diversions
The whirlwind cycle of the double-speak news media continues to demand that candidates speak about issues while at the same time continuing to bury the same issues.
As seen in the debate on Wednesday night, when Sen. Obama continually tried to rise above the bitterness and speak about the real issues Americans face, the commentators continued to drag him down with meaningless questions about Hillary Clinton's allegations.
The media, and the media alone, have the ability to focus on the issues, but they continue to be fixated on the sensationalistic he-said/she-said high school politics of old.
Michael Amato, North Wales
Mayor's 'experience' nonsense
I thought the Mayor Nutter's appearance on "The Colbert Report" was great until he defended his support for Hillary by citing her "35 years of experience." That's like believing John Street's 20 years on City Council prepared him to be a great mayor.
Jason Hale, Philadelphia
Hogwash!
Kevin Kenna believes Gov. Rendell is to blame for the death of Sean Conroy because if not for "go anywhere" SEPTA passes, the kids would be limited in their ability to cause havoc. This is one of the most absurd comments I've ever read in the opinion section.
Lenise Johnson, Philadelphia
