I'm glad that you at least cited specific examples of what he does that bothers you.  I read a lot of how he's a DLC Democrat or hostile to progressives and never really understand where it's coming from.  At least this is documenting him saying things you find offensive as a progressive.

I also don't like his quote on being opposed to the war.  I don't understand why he would feel the need to justify being opposed to the war by essentially saying he's not a crazy liberal.  

With that said, for everything Obama says that i don't like he says 10 that are really inspiring.  I really think he has far more potential than any of the other Democratic contenders.  After seeing him in person and watching a crowd of 3,000 people react to him it's hard not be absolutely amazed.  Lets just say that Edwards and Kerry never had and never will have what Obama does.

The main reason I support Obama is the same reason I supported Dean in 2004, I think he's real.  I know the two quotes you cited as pretty much the opposite of that, much for the most part he really speaks how he feels and unlike Dean he can convey himself brillantly.  

I guess I see the potential for what happened to Gore in 2000 to happen to Obama, which would be to completely monitor everything he says and pander to the center as much as possible.  His disclaimer for his opposition to the war would be a great example of him doing this.  However, I really have faith that he'll be more of a Bobby Kennedy than an Al Gore if he decides to run.  Of course only time will tell.