I don't think the racism situation is as bad as you say. I think Obama could be Robertson for instance, if Robertson where given a chance to rave in public about how everybody who doesn't agree with his specific type of Christianity is an evil devil follower.
But I would agree that people who think it wouldn't be an issue or would help him overall are simply wrong. Obama's best shot right now is serving 8 years as VP first. Getting people used to seeing and hearing him will overcome the majority of the disadvantage being black brings him.
Jay