ORANGEBURG, S.C. -- Writers and commentators are always going on about how Barack Obama gets treated more like a celebrity than a politician when he shows up at campaign rallies.

Usher, Kerry Washington and Chris Tucker made a surprise appearance at South Carolina State University by introducing Obama.

The crowd went nuts. As they entered the arena, crowds pressed against the Secret Service barricades to get a closer look at the three.

"I feel like Barack Obama," Tucker said.

Celebrities Usher, Chris Tucker gather for Barack Obama
Kim Wendel 9 months ago
http://www.wkyc.com/news/politics_govt/politics_article.aspx?storyid=81933

Obama got to see an actual rock star reception Tuesday night. Actually, it was for the celebrity trio of R&B star Usher, actress Kerry Washington and comedian Chris Tucker, who surprised an audience at South Carolina State University by introducing the presidential candidate.

Crowd members screamed and strained metal Secret Service barricades in hope of touching the trio as they entered the sports center ahead of Obama.

"I feel like Barack Obama," said Tucker, star of the blockbuster trilogy "Rush Hour," turning the cliche on its head.

The hollering continued as Usher, a five-time Grammy winner, and Washington, whose roles include Ray Charles' wife in the biopic "Ray," reminded the mostly black audience that civil rights pioneers fought for their right to vote.

"Listen up, guys, listen up," Usher said, trying to silence them for a serious message. He said it would be negligent and irresponsible for them not to participate in Saturday's South Carolina primary. "If you don't use your voice, you didn't make a difference," he said.

Celebrity trio apears at Obama rallyWednesday, January 23, 2008 | 11:40 AM
Singer Usher Raymond, left, actress Kerry Washington, second from left, State Rep., Bakari Seller, second from right, and comedian Chris Tucker, right, introduce Democratic presidential hopeful Sen. Barack Obama, D-Ill., center, during a rally on the campus of South Carolina State University in Orangeburg, S.C., Tuesday, Jan. 22, 2008.
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