Nation of Islam leader Louis Farrakhan wound up being the surprise issue in the February 26 Democratic candidates’ debate. Responding to questions from moderator Tim Russert, Barack Obama denounced the Nation of Islam leader.

Farrakhan’s response? In a statement, he said:

Those who have been supporting Sen. Barack Obama should not allow what was said during the Feb. 26 presidential debate to lessen their support for his campaign. This is simply mischief making intended to hurt Mr. Obama politically.

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One might have expected something angrier. But, then again, why should he be angry? His fading profile just got a big injection of national media attention.

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