To counter some of the rumors circulating on the Internet (Obama is a Muslim; Michelle Obama ranted about “whitey” at the Trinity United Church of Christ, etc.), the Obama campaign has launched a Web site — fightthesmears.com — listing the various “smears” and providing evidence or sources to refute the claims.

They’re handling the “Barack Obama won’t say the Pledge of Allegiance” charge by posting a YouTube video of Obama leading the Pledge to open a Senate session. Supporters can also “spread the truth” to friends by emailing a suggested message:

Hey,

You may have heard some baseless rumors that Barack Obama won’t recite the Pledge of Allegiance or put his hand over his heart during he Pledge of Allegiance.

The truth is, Barack’s grandfather, a WWII veteran, taught him The Pledge of Allegiance and inspired his strong love of this country.

These attacks on Barack’s patriotism are completely false and designed to play into the worst kind of stereotypes.

Learn more about this and other anti-Obama smears and help push back with the truth: http://my.barackobama.com/fightthesmears

Together we can make sure these negative and divisive attacks don’t affect this campaign.

Thanks for your help.”