Al Sharpton yesterday accused one of his rivals for the Democratic nomination, Howard Dean, of having an "
anti-black agenda." Sharpton alleged that Dean was opposed to Affirmative Action, among other issues important to African Americans. The attack came after the second member of the Congressional Black Caucus, Jesse Jackson, Jr., whose father Sharpton regularly attacks, endorsed Dean. Not only have two members of the CBC endorsed Dean, but other CBC members have indicated a group endorsement is coming within days, though the candidate's name has not been mentioned publicly.
Rep. Jackson yesterday defended Dean from Sharpton's attack, along with Rep. Major Owens, the first CBC member to endorse Dean. Today, Donna Brazile, who is officially neutral in the Democratic primaries, has joined Reps. Jackson and Owens in denouncing Sharpton's remarks, saying, "I think Dean's record on civil rights issues, on affirmative action -- his willingness to talk about race in a very inclusive way -- has been refreshing. These long-shot candidates, all they're doing is taking aim at the top tier because they're frustrated. I think Reverend Sharpton should keep his focus on ideas."