Folks might like to get a Chicago perspective on all this, from an actual Chicago journalist.

Mary Mitchell is a good one, and she has written an editorial column in today's Chicago Sun Times titled:

"Wright caught in undeserved political glare
Whites don't get it, blacks do -- and it's time to move on"

I agree 100% with her assessment regarding Wright. He absolutely does NOT deserve the treatment he is receiving--the demonizing treatment, especially. The man has a great record of activism, and a legacy to be very proud of, and for his friends, family, and parishioners too.

But the problem I'm having with the defense of Wright, is it doesn't speak to people's concerns about Obama's judgment. Not all black churches are activist churches--in fact, most aren't.

On the Sunday following 9/11, you would only have heard that black nationalist brand of fire and brimstone coming from a pulpit of a black activist church. And that is it in a nutshell. Obama made a choice to join an activist church, and never left.

Why?

Obama needed Wright and Trinity to further his political career in Chicago, far more than they needed him as a member. As the current controversy shows.

That is deeply unfair to Wright and Trinity, all of whom have now been deeply wounded by the whole mess. Political ambitions always have consequences.

You can read Mary Mitchell's excellent commentary today at:

www.suntimes.com