Republicans at war over 'racist' Obama song
Argument breaks out among Republicans as would-be chairman sends 'racist' song about Barack Obama as Christmas present
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Monday, 29, Dec 2008 10:02
Deep divisions in the Republican party have once again been exposed after its would-be chairman sent a CD including a song entitled Barack the Magic Negro to party members as a Christmas present.
The song in question, sung to the tune of Puff the Magic Dragon, was included on a compilation CD criticising the liberal media entitled We Hate the US.
Chip Saltsman, who hopes to be the GOP's next chairman, has described Barack the Magic Negro – based on a Los Angeles Times article that suggested white voters supported Mr Obama over intrinsic guilty – as a "light-hearted political parody".
But the incumbent chairman Mike Duncan has condemned his rival, who was formerly the campaign manager of 2008 Republican presidential contender Mike Huckabee.
Mr Duncan said Mr Obama's resounding defeat of John McCain in the race to the White House should have made the Republican party realise it could not continue on its present course.
"The 2008 election was a wake-up call for Republicans to reach out and bring more people into our party," he said.
"I am shocked and appalled that anyone would think this is appropriate, as it clearly does not move us in the right direction."
Mr Duncan's words were backed up by Saul Anuzis, Republican chairman in Michigan, who said: "In my opinion, this isn't funny and it's in bad taste."
Barack the Magic Negro, sung by comedian Paul Shanklin in 2007, received widespread attention when it was played by right-wing radio host Rush Limbaugh.