Washington - Some have called Bill Clinton the first black US president, but 2008 White House contender Barack Obama would like to see him dance first. Obama's quip lightened up a debate in the Democratic Party about the role of race in the US presidential campaign, a prominent issue this year because the senator from Illinois is seeking to become the first African-American president.
During a candidates' debate Monday in the Southern state of South Carolina, CNN co-host Joe Johns brought up Clinton's popularity among African-Americans and author Toni Morrison's label of "our first black president."
Obama did acknowledge that Clinton, who is white, had an "enormous affinity" with US blacks.
"I would have to, you know, investigate more of Bill's dancing abilities ... before I accurately judge whether he was in fact a brother," he deadpanned, drawing a laugh from the largely black audience.
"Well, I'm sure that can be arranged," replied US Senator Hillary Clinton, the former first lady who is battling Obama to become the Democratic nominee in the November 4 presidential election.
Bill Clinton is back on the campaign trail this year supporting his wife, a role that has included sharp attacks on Obama. So far, he hasn't questioned Obama's moves on the dance floor.
Obama showed a bit of rhythm last fall with TV talk host Ellen DeGeneres, swaying lightly to a dance beat when she welcomed him to her show.
