By Tom Ryan, Kansas City Star Reader Advisory Panel

Former President Carter stated his opinion in an interview with Brian Williams of Atlanta. To say that he states the facts is wrong based upon what he said.

A portion of the interview is here for those who wish to formulate their own opinion.

Said Carter:
“I think an overwhelming portion of the intensely demonstrated animosity toward President Barack Obama is based on the fact that he is a black man, that he’s African-American. I live in the South. And I’ve seen the South come a long way. And I’ve seen the rest of the country, that shared the South’s attitude toward minority groups at that time, particularly African-Americans.

“That racism inclination still exists. And I think it’s bubbled up to the surface because of a belief among many white people, not just in the South but around the country, that African-Americans are not qualified to lead this great country. It’s an abominable circumstance, and grieves me and concerns me very deeply.”