There's a big stink because Fox News ran a segment about Michelle Obama and the caption included the words "Barack Obama's Baby Mama". One could argue that the phrase further dumbs down the American language and is a racial epithet unsuitable for prime time. Or, one could argue that the hip hop culture has come to define at least part of the culture at large and embrace the language. Or, one could do either depending on the circumstances.

Michelle Obama used the term "baby daddy" to introduce her husband, so clearly she does not find the language offensive. I'm guessing that increases her cred on the street, yo. Or, maybe it's just a fun, light hearted thing to say. Wait, I think it might be the latter.

However, is it wrong for others to describe Ms. Obama as Barack's "baby Mama"? Is baby Mama like the "N" word, only appropriate in the black man's mouth? (Which I disagree with, by the way--to me the "N" word is offensive no matter who uses it, but anyone who wants to use it can.) Firedog Lake is characteristically hysterical,"2008: She's well-educated, a lawyer, and a black woman -- unleash the hounds!" Is saying "baby Mama" unleashing the hounds?

Now, I'll grant you, that no one is probably going to describe McCain's wife Cindy as a "baby Mama", but I doubt you'll hear Cindy McCain introduce her husband as her "baby's Daddy". She knows how silly it would sound coming from the potential future president's wife's mouth. Oh wait......

Cross-posted at Dr. Melissa Clouthier