Larry-

In principle I agree, and perhaps its a twist on "the scantily clad girl asked to be raped" kind of thing, but someone on the WH staff should've said, "Uh, hey, Common is cool, we all get that, but this will cause a big kerfuffle in the media. Is it really worth it?"

To which the answer is, imo, no.

This isn't universal health care or a big immigration plan. Its not equal pay for women, or more affordable college tuition. Its not keeping any archetype manufacturing companies alive, etc.

Its poetry...what's the upside, politically? Not to wander into offensive generalities but would we agree that most of the people who already liked Common are very likely to vote for Obama in '12? And that those who didn't, are very un-likely to vote for Obama? I think the move was high risk/low reward, which smart politicians avoid.

Chas-I have no control over how people are permitted to comment directly on the blog. Several people have contacted me to say they've set up a google email account and now they can post. Like all emails, I'm sure there's various privacy controls available.

Thanks,guys...