Barkley for Governor?

"Sir Charles" Barkley, who now calls himself a Democrat, still has his sights set on the Governor's mansion. Time will tell whether Mr. Barkley is as talented at politics as he is at basketball, but so far, the chances aren't looking good. Consider the issues that Mr. Barkley labels as "stuff that's not important." Minor things like the war in Iraq, illegal immigration, and gay marriage. Now, some politicians may try to avoid talking about those particular issues, but that doesn't diminish their importance. If Mr. Barkley is really interested in a political career, he may need to rethink his priorities.

Politics aside, Charles Barkley is a true Alabama success story - an enormously gifted man and a respected role model who cares deeply about the future of his state. While he may be guilty of "talking trash" from time to time, he often talks a lot of sense. Take this, for example:

"I really believe I was put on Earth to do more than play basketball and stockpile money," he said. "I really want to help people improve their lives, and what's left is for me to decide how best to do that." ...

"People will tell you this is America and there is a level playing field. That's the most BS you're ever going to hear," Barkley said. "If you're poor, if you're dodging bullets and drop out (of school), it's not a level playing field." ...

While scolding white America for largely ignoring the needs of the poor, Barkley admonished black students and parents.

"There are too many black kids and their parents who do not value a good education," he said.

"There are places where a black kid who is a good student and tries to speak correctly, you hear stuff like, `He's trying to be white.' Well I say, if that's true, we need more kids trying to be white."

Barkley attacked rap music as promoting a culture that is not good for black Americans.

"I used to think it was just music. I was wrong," Barkley said. "I think it's having a negative effect on black kids, especially young black men, who grow up believing things that hurt them and hurt people."

Barkley urged school board members not to give up on educating poor kids.

"I will never give up on helping those kinds of kids, because I used to be one of those kinds of kids. Don't you give up, either."

That's inspiring stuff, and coming from a popular figure like Charles Barkley, it's a message that kids of all races will listen to. So, come home Charles. We need you.