The media have named the phenomenal impact Oprah Winfrey seems to have on shaping popular culture "The Oprah Effect." And now that Barack Obama has won the Iowa caucus, I'm smiling and questioning the situation all in one.

Smiling because it's a wonderful thing to watch the battle that is sure to be, the 2008 Democratic race. Besides being a historical event, it is also turning into a message race. A message being heard loud and clear from voters; voters who have been ignored by the present administration.

I was surprised though at John Edwards slugging it out for second place with Hilary Clinton. She ended up in 3rd place. I'm sure they'll be some restructuring of resources in that camp. Hillary is probably blowin' a gasket right about now.

It leads me to question is America ready to try a Black President in lieu of a woman? Is it the fact that she's a woman? Or is it the fact that Hilary is perceived by some as being deceptive and indecisive. I guess changing her mind on the vote to go to war after the carnage had begun was too late for the folks in Iowa. (That's another blog.)

I'm sure John Edwards' camp is happy about their victory.

But Oprah and Barack...hmmm.

This thing called the Oprah Effect may not be an urban legend after all. Her ability to assist in molding popular culture in this country has gone beyond Dr. Phil and Broadway Stage plays. Surely Oprah's appearance at Barack's side while he was campaigning in Iowa didn't hurt.

I don't think Oprah Winfrey is involved in this political race just for the acceptance of others. I believe she feels empowered to make a change. Her involvement in the 2008 presidential race has naturally grabbed the attention of >international media.

There may be a little narcissistic gratification in it for her, but it's minimal at best.

Yeah, if only I could be a fly on the wall in the Clinton camp.