When Dresses Count

A recent photograph of Barack Obama dressed in traditional African dress, while on a visit to Kenya in 2006, has added fuel to the fire in the rivalry against both democratic candidates. The picture, submitted to the Drudge Report website, shows Obama garbed in a white turban and white traditional African robe.

Obama’s camp claimed that the distribution of the image was a smear campaign tactic initiated by rival Hillary Clinton's camp. The Clinton camp denied this, stating that they had nothing to do with the photograph becoming public. Obama’s father was originally from Kenya and this is probably the reason why he made the visit.

Tempers are fraying in both camps with the crucial debate in Ohio at stake. Obama’s campaign manager, David Plouffe, stated that the distribution of the photo was "…the most shameful, offensive fear-mongering we've seen from either party in this election". In response Clinton's campaign manager, Maggie Williams, said, "If Barack Obama's campaign wants to suggest that a photo of him wearing traditional Somali clothing is divisive, they should be ashamed. Hillary Clinton has worn the traditional clothing of countries she has visited and had those photos published widely."

Clinton continued to try to gain an upper hand by trying to project Obama as a rash and inconsistent politician who lacks foreign policy experience. She likened him to George Bush Jr. who had the same kind of inexperience when he was elected to the presidency.

Obama has, for some time now, enjoyed a winning streak, securing 11 primaries consecutively. Clinton requires a win in both Ohio and Texas to ensure that she continues in the race for the presidential nomination. For the first time, Obama is leading in a poll, having secured 50% in Texas as compared to a 46% secured by Clinton. Obama is edging forward as the Democratic front-runner and unless Clinton manages a remarkable turnaround, Obama is expected to be the likely Democratic front-runner.