It will be interesting to see how the debate develops over the next few years. Obama doesn't appear to be a strong supporter of a primarily race-based affirmative action. He believes that economic inequalities should increasingly be the underlying consideration-- (much to the dismay of many in the African American community). Perhaps this view would be more broadly accepted among white Americans?

I can understand both sides of the affirmative action argument, however,-- the resentment among those who don't benefit (especially when the bar is lowered for some), as well as the case for addressing historical and contemporary discrimination and disparities. Rather than adding points to people's scores, I would like to see opportunities given to disadvantaged minorities early on to help them compete as equally-qualified candidates. And certainly more effort to address the root causes of these disparities. Affirmative action won't help the alarming rate of highschool drop-out among black youth who aren't even reaching college.