The National Action Network convention was dubbed the "Sharpton Primary," because every presidential candidate and their mama showed up and gave speeches pandering to Sharpton and crew (read: "black leaders"). I'm sure you can guess that the most popular speaker was the black guy. Unfortunately for Sen. Barack Obama, the black guy in this equation was Bill Clinton. His wife, Sen. Hillary Clinton, also racked up more standing ovations than Obama during her speech. That's gotta hurt.

Mr. Obama and Mrs. Clinton are competing for the endorsement of Mr. Sharpton, who said he would make his choice among the Democratic field in a few weeks. ( John Edwards of North Carolina and other candidates have spoken at the annual convention.)

Mrs. Clinton and former President Bill Clinton have been courting Mr. Sharpton, Mr. Sharpton's associates said. She has been determined to lock up political and fund-raising support on her home turf, and a Sharpton endorsement would help with her task of vying for black votes.

Mr. Obama and Mr. Sharpton have good ties, but associates of Mr. Sharpton say he feels a natural rivalry with Mr. Obama; Mr. Sharpton ran for president in 2004 and has worked to become an influential and visible leader.

Does this answer the stupid, pointless question journalists have had a ball asking since Obama announced his candidacy? Is he black enough? In the coming weeks, the coveted Sharpton endorsement may give the media, if not us voters, the answer they've been desperately seeking.

[NYT]