Obama Deals In Humor At Las Vegas Convention

Speaking yesterday to the National Association of Black Journalists, Sen. Barack Obama (D-Illinois) bet a stack of chips on an opening quip derived from an old stereotype. Appearing before 2,000 people, the liberal Democratic presidential hopeful apologized for being late. "But you guys have been asking if I'm black enough," he added, flashing a sly smile. The remark brought laughs from the audience. Sen. Obama met with humor a question that NABJ members have asked during their convention.

His rival, Sen. Hillary Clinton (D-New York) was also the object of Sen. Obama's wit. Asked if he would consider her as a running mate, he said that she would be on the short list. "Clinton is on the short list for president too," he added. Sen. Obama used this visit to confront a campaign anomaly: He has enjoyed rock-star popularity among the public, which has allowed him to raise large contributions. Yet some blacks have reservations. He attributed his dilemma to the mixed feelings of a group long on the outside that senses its political fortunes might turn. "It's fear," he said. "We don't want to be too excited by the prospect and then be let down." Sen. Obama asked, "Why not give it a chance?"