Fulani Is Calling For Hillary Vs. Obama

By JILL GARDINER, Staff Reporter of the Sun
September 13, 2007

In an attempt to ensure that Senator Clinton does not make off with New York's black vote without a fight, Independence Party activist Lenora Fulani is calling for a presidential debate at the Apollo Theater in Harlem.

Ms. Fulani, who has been a political lightning rod after making comments that many viewed as anti-Semitic, is seeking a solo debate between Mrs. Clinton and the only black candidate in the race, Senator Obama of Illinois. A news release sent out yesterday by a group Ms. Fulani is affiliated with, the Committee for a Harlem Debate Between Clinton and Obama, said Mrs. Clinton's endorsement rally this spring was "a show of force to intimidate any wayward politicians, church leaders, and ordinary black citizens and to prevent them from even considering an Obama option."

In a telephone interview, Ms. Fulani said that while many black leaders in city have already endorsed Mrs. Clinton, they owe their constituents the opportunity to hear more from the candidates.

Yesterday, a number of black leaders and Clinton supporters dismissed Ms. Fulani, who recently repudiated the remarks taken as anti-Semitic and announced her candidacy for mayor.

Ms. Fulani has waged numerous campaigns for high office over the years, including several for president under the New Alliance Party banner.