Rep. Artur Davis

The New York Times is doing the "Can There Really Be A Black Governor in Alabama?" story. Media outside the state can't seem to resist the concept of a black candidate (they call him the leading candidate in the Democratic side), and the Times includes the obligatory Davis shrug about the importance of race. “One thing Obama did very well is, he didn’t obsess on race,” he said in an interview. “I don’t spend my time talking about that either.” Mr. Davis may not spend time on it, but there are plenty of other Alabamans who will. It was easier for then Candidate Obama to ride the middle rail enough to attract moderate Republicans and Independents. Mr. Davis' balancing act will be much more precarious. Candidate Obama won just 10% of the white vote in Alabama. And Candidate Davis will likely be facing a more formidable opponent that old forgetful McCain.