[CamEdwards]

I had a much longer post all ready to go, but I think it's kind of a waste. Honest to Christ, if you can't figure out why some people might be bothered by the fact that Ayers is a respected member of society 40 years after he engaged in a bombing campaign that left at least 4 people dead, then of course you're not going to understand the big deal about Obama having even a professional relationship with the guy.

For the record, DT:

1) Ayers was not exonerated or cleared of any charges by the government. Prosecutorial misconduct led to a plea bargain.

2) They served on the board of directors of the Woods Foundation, and also had a fairly long association with the Chicago Annenberg Challenge. While it may be true that Obama wasn't in a position to remove Ayers, he certainly WAS in a position to speak out about Ayers' involvement.

3) One of Obama's first fundraisers was at the home of Ayers. I'd think Obama would certainly be in a position to say "hmm... can we have it at your neighbor's house instead"?

You don't have to think of Bill Ayers as a criminal terrorist mastermind in order for Ayers to be someone you don't really want to be associated with. Frankly, I think the worst part about this whole story isn't that Obama has any sort of relationship with Ayers. I think it's the fact that several societies (Chicago political society, national community of educators to name two) apparently have no problem with a guy like Ayers being closely involved in their issues. Apparently we have a community statute of limitations on terrorists.

I see Obama as going along to get along. He's certainly displayed no great moral example in his associations with Ayers, but politically speaking he hasn't had to. I expect Chicago politicians to act like Chicago politicians. I just wish there weren't so many Americans who felt the same way.