University of Maine at Farmington political science professor Jim Melcher said people may buy books based on Oprah’s recommendations, but they aren’t likely to rush right out and vote for a certain candidate.

Melcher said the talk show icon’s weekend appearances for Democratic presidential hopeful Barack Obama put fans in the stands, and that’s not a bad thing.

“It’s going to spur people to pay attention to him that might not otherwise do so,” he said.

That’s especially true of women, who may now be giving Obama a serious look as someone who will listen to their concerns, Melcher said.

The Associated Press, citing the Obama campaign, reported that at least 66,500 people attended the weekend Oprah-Obama rallies across three pivotal states.

Her presence spiced up political rallies, bumped up media attention, and raised Obama’s visibility to a new level.

“She’d be one of the better people to have campaign for you that I can think of,” Melcher said.

And while Oprah gave Obama a weekend of buzz, it’s hard to sway primary and caucus voters with celebrity sparkle.

“Hard core people won’t be swayed,” he said.