Sen. Clinton Asked About Sanjaya Malakar

(AP)  Under-talented "American Idol" contestant Sanjaya Malakar is even getting the attention of presidential candidates these days.

During a radio call-in on WOKQ-FM, Sen. Hillary Clinton was asked what the United States can do about Malakar, the Fox television show's underdog candidate who critics say lacks any shred of talent.

"That's the best question I've been asked in a long time," Clinton said. "Well, you know, people can vote for whomever they want. That's true in my election, and it's true on 'American Idol.' "

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Photos: "American Idol"

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Known for his madcap hairstyles, Sanjaya, 17, has prompted controversy by surviving deep into the voting on this season's "Idol."

[drbehavior-2009]

Sanjaya's still there because he's a cute kid that reminds people of themselves rather than being some prodigy like the rest of the contestants despite their current lack of name recognition.

[sal567]

Why do people vote for Sanjaya? Same reason they vote for George W. Bush . . . wrong guy!

[sal567]

Why do people vote for Sanjaya? Same reason they vote for George W. Bush . . . wrong guy!

[agnim]

The show is about a combination of 'talent' and CELEBRITY!

Go, Sanjaya!

Victory to Sanjay!
(that's what his name means) LOL

[dgshiner]

if the show is based on talent then why is he still in if he has none? Just like with the Miss USA if it is based on acomplishments and talent then why was a drug addict chose to wear the crown? I don't understand USA anymore?

[intheknow2]

The show is not about talent. A "popular vote" is just that, a vote based on popularity. Idol, once passed audition is not about "talent", it is about popularity. Simon even knows this, which he acknowledged with his "I'll try something different this week", he was not givening a compliment, but as commenting that he is aware that who he picks on people feel sorry for. This show is about WHO and WHO alone gets the most votes, WHY a person gets voted for is a not important in the voting process.

[Brother John B-High]

Keep him in! It is part of the show to vote for whomever you like!
In England the show Pop Idol, the show American Idol was based on, was shevled for the same reason. Now there is a show there where ONLY the judges count!
AI was never, ever about "talent", it was a popularity contest at best!
So, I vote for Sanjaya at least 50 times every week, and I watch Dateline a much better show on Tuesdays!
AI encourages you to vote! This is America! Vote for Sanjaya!
And while your at it, take a look at Bill Richardson as a Hillary alternative!
And Dats The Truth, Blecchhh

[reena6]

GET RID OF HIM...WHY HAVE A SHOW FOCUSED ON TALENT IF THAT IS NOT WHAT YOU ARE FOCUSING ON?