To The Editor:

Obama may win the Democratic nomination but lose the election to a weak and encumbered John McCain. Though the Republicans have Bush as anchor, Obama will be defined by Trinity United Church of Christ, Chicago.

For Obama the problem is not solely Rev. [Jeremiah] Wright or Father Pfleger. It is the reaction by the congregation in response to their inflammatory damning sermons. What has not been harped upon yet is the joyous acceptance by the Trinity congregation to sermons most Americans will label unpatriotic and misogynistic. The failure by the Trinity congregation to object is the highlight that the Republicans will broadcast nightly on TV.

The outrageous revelations shown on the videos are more than two inflammatory supporters of Obama. What will become the undercurrent is the gleeful ovations these men of God received by a mostly black congregation. The Carl Roves of this world will frame the election as a contest by the African American community hoping to gain power in a war of retribution.

Every campaign hopes for an "October surprise". Obama attended Trinity for 20 years. During those years Rev. Wright's sermons contained insults and defamation against the U.S. If a video comes public with Obama present and applauding Wright, McCain will be president.
Edward Horn
Baldwin, New York