OK, Obama fans, sell me -- I'm serious

[lwcon]

Tell me substantatively how I'm supposed to get over my deep reservations about Obama's vapid talk about bipartisanship, which frankly doesn't reflect the reality of the last 7 years, nor awareness of the evil that is today's Conservative Movement.

Darwin as my witness, I will write an X next to the D in November. That's not negotiable, no matter how gee-golly nice http://www.correntewire.com/tags/mike_huckabee">Mike Huckabee is, what a mythic maverick John McCain is supposed to be, how (relatively) socially moderate Giuliani may be, and how breathtakingly handsome Mitt Romney assuredly is. Or how topsy-turvy cool it is that Ron Paul opposes the war, and how "refreshing" it will be if Michael Bloomberg throws an expensive "I'm-more-bipartisan-than-you-are" hat in the ring.

But if your guy is going to keep pretending away the scorched-earth partisanship of the other side and keep pissing on the wall between church and state, throw me a bone, will ya?

Tell me what's so inspiring about Obama?

And I'm asking about content.

And let's skip the externalities, significant as they may be to his electability and to the historic "meaning" of his candidacy (his color and heritage, his organization, his charm, and his ability to make empty platitudes about "hope" and "healing" sound "visionary").

What should I expect him to accomplish? Why shouldn't I worry about him glossing over the political truth on the ground: that no more than two or three of today's Republicans give a flying fuck about bipartisanship or constructive compromise?

How do I learn to stop worrying and love the Obama?

___

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[FrenchieCat]

1. DId you bother to watch his speech?

because there is actually quite a bit in there about what he wants to accomplish and how, and why.

[bigscott]

3. Ronald Reagan gave inspiring speeches too

I thought he sucked as a president:shrug:

[FrenchieCat]

4. Obama ain't Reagan.......

And why would Obama "suck" as President anymore than the others candidates out there? Hillary might suck too....and Edwards makes mistakes pretty consistently. :shrug:

At least the man understood a dumb war when he saw one.

[bigscott]

7. never said BHO would suck did I??

but it takes more than speeches and "present" votes in the Senate

[JTFrog]

16. If you knew anything about the legislative process in Illinois, you would

understand that there are three options for a Senator when voting. One of those options is Present.

Sometimes the "present" votes were in line with instructions from Democratic leaders or because he objected to provisions in bills that he might otherwise support. At other times, he voted present on questions that had overwhelming bipartisan support. In at least a few cases, the issue was politically sensitive.

So what exactly worries you about a COMMONLY used voting strategy? Now if he had just not bothered to show up, that might be something to worry about.

[FrenchieCat]

17. But did you listen to his speech.

You didn't answer.

[bigscott]

28. yes i listened to his speech

and read the transcript too. Very inspiring and he could run circles around any GOPer. But i am waiting for SPECIFIC plans for this much hyped "change" he keeps promising.

many on this board think I am bashing BHO - I seriously am not. If he is nominated i would vote for him. He is not my first choice but is better than anyone the GOP can throw our way.

But it takes more than pretty, inspiring words. And if a legislator cannot take a stand on "politically sensitive" issues in the Illinois State legislature then what makes you think he is prepared to do that on the national level????

[lwcon]

9. Struck me as mostly fluff, sound and no fury, signifying not much

Yes, just like Hillary did, he mentioned a few issues that need focus, but it was a million miles from Edwards's rousing speech about economic justice.

I know it's so gauche to be angry, but I am angry at what's happened to my country, and I'd prefer a candidate who feels that way, too.

But accepting that Obama may well have a straight shot at the nomination, I want to know what specific aspects of his platform I can count on him driving home as President, so I can focus on those issues and sublimate my frustration at his untimely -- if, apparently, marketable -- happy talk.

I am going to support the Democratic nominee, but I need to hear more substance that will give me something to rally around, if he is the anointed one.

___

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[FrenchieCat]

20. what rousing speech on economic justice?

What solutions did Edwards provide in this "rousing" speech of his that barely got any applause?

[lwcon]

31. None of the caucus-night speeches were exactly position papers

Edwards got plenty of applause. And certainly you saw a lot more fight in him and his supporters than in the Hillary camp.

That said, Edwards' high road on campaign financing is going to be put to the test in the upcoming primaries.

But I'm not trying to argue whether or why Edwards (or Hillary) is going to or should win. I'm sincerely trying to find the mojo to get on the Obama bandwagon if the time comes.

Admit it or not, there is a cult-of-personality buzz that obscures the substance of Obama, whatever that may be, which makes artfully worded and rousingly delivered speeches sound like meaning.

So, please Obama-ites, sell me on the substance! Give me the talking points, because as of February 5th, I may need them.

I'm not, despite all the responses that are missing the mark, asking whether he's electable. I'm asking why he should be elected, and not to be a black president or even a Democratic president, but to be a president, period.

___

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[jgraz]

69. Once again, Edwards at least can demonstrate awareness of the problems

As far as I can tell, Obama thinks our only problem is that our HOPE isn't AUDACIOUS enough.

[Uben]

2. I'm not an Obama supporter, but

.....you first have to get past your preconceived notions.

And then, you can go ahead and vote for Hillary, who we all know is inevitable!

[lwcon]

36. Speaking of preconceived notions...

... I'm not voting for Hillary in the primary.

___

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[cali]

5. I'm not even vaguely interested in selling Obama to you

And from your OP, it's clear you're not interested or open minded about him. Your OP is simply a rant in sheep's clothing.

Support who you wish. I certainly don't give a shit.

[lwcon]

14. A big believer in Obama's spirit of unity, eh?

I'm dead serious about wanting, needing to support the Democratic nominee, and the writing may be on the wall that Obama is going to get the nod.

I refuse to indulge in vanity voting when we're up against today's ruthless, corrupt, incompetent, and valueless GOP. If Obama is the nominee, I will have to find a way to support him.

But I'm not going to pretend away my serious reservations.

I'm looking for the best ammunition his supporters have that shows what he will accomplish, something that I can proudly rally around, despite him not running a campaign I admire thus far.

So much of Obama's support reeks of "cult of personality," and that's not going to git 'er done for me -- and a fair number of other folks. So, I'd like to hear some earnest, substantive talk from people who have high expectations for him, something that will get us on the bandwagon if and when the time comes.

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[Ishoutandscream2]

23. You're not going to get anywhere with her

There's vitriol in many of her posts. There are very positive Obama posters on this board. I'd ignore this one.

[David Zephyr]

66. Edwards supporters are almost all class acts. I hope I can be the same for Obama.

Ishoutandscream2, you do John and Elizabeth proud.

[Ishoutandscream2]

67. Thanks, David

I have to say that I was about as happy as I had been in the last seven years last night. I'm for Edwards, but I was so proud of Obama and the state of Iowa. I saw real progress last night, and I was proud for my country. Obama is my second choice, and a ticket with Edwards and Obama at either post would be fantastic!!

[TheWatcher]

71. Such useless drivel.

And about what is expected from you. Abrasive, confrontational, vitriolic, and just plain unnecessary.

The original poster is genuinely interested in the substance of what Obama has to offer, and all he's asking for is demonstration with that. A lot of people feel the same way he does. It was a great speech, but at a period like this in history, we need more than great words that make us feel good.

Hope does not mean shit without actions that make it reality.

You don't offer substance or information. You usually offer insults.

Get over yourself.

Perhaps more people would care what you think if you actually did give a shit.

[TheWebHead]

6. it's the turnout factor... that's what's being missed

if what happened in iowa can be translated nationwide, this 48-52, 49-51 balance we've seen in presidential elections is out the window. If Obama can pull in the level of new voters, young voters, that in the past have been a pipe dream, the divided country equation would be squashed. And for everyone bellyaching that Obama is too moderate, remember that all these added voters are going to be voting mostly D down the line. That will mean greater majorities in the house, senate and within the states. That means more progressive policies are going to get passed, more so than if you would have gotten a more liberal president without the new voter advantage Obama provides.

If Hillary were to be the nominee, the exact opposite equation comes in, there's a risk that our gains in red states would be vanquished, we'd have a moderate president who will be pressured to be tough because of gender politics, and that young voter turnout advantage would be lost.

[FrenchieCat]

10. I agree.....

and it is amazing that some are missing this. 40% of eligible voters don't vote, many of them minorities and the youth. Those are voters that Obama can activate.....and as a Democrats, it is something I've been waiting for to happen.

[bigscott]

11. i agree it is the turnout

BUT does anyone think that is going to carry over nationally?? I hope and pray it does because it would mean we win a shitload of down-ticket races - and since the Speaker and majority Leader claim to be powerless now, that is exactly what we need to really take the country back

[lwcon]

Again, I'm not asking about "electability"

If he continues to kick ass through the primaries, his electability will be on display.

The question is, for Dems whose pants aren't charmed off by him, what are the key things we should hang onto in order to get avidly on the bandwagon, if he's "the guy."

___

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[0007]

32. Your hatred for Obama is so deep iwcon that you'll never have a

keen interest or enthusiasm for anything but your choice.

[lwcon]

35. I don't hate Obama, not even close

I'm just concerned and disappointed by his pleasing but misguided rhetoric.

If he gets the nod, I will be actively supporting him, and I'll be donating to his campaign. I'm looking for help in how do to that sincerely and enthusiastically.

But that's the way it is with personality cults. Anything short of blind obeisance is strictly unthinkable.

___

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[avaistheone1]

60. Can't anyone make an objection about Obama without the hatred card being tossed.

:puke:

[ellisonz]

62. He had the judgment to oppose the Iraq War.

He has a strong legislative record from getting the Illinois police to videotape interrogations, passing the strongest ethics reform in Illinois state history, passing children's health care in Illinois to working to get the Senate to pass ethics reform, expanding Nunn-Lugar to include antipersonnel mines and shoulder fired anti-aircraft weapons, and securing relief for war ravaged Democratic Republic of Congo.

He has shown he can work in a bipartisan, yet principled manner, and get real results.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Barack_obama

[elizm]

8. Obama talks about uniting the country...

....And when you look at the number of Independents that came out to vote for him just last night, I think you can begin to think that just maybe this man can do it. If you unite the people of this country, instead of divide them, then Washington will have to follow. The Democrats swept the '06 elections based on Independent and cross-over votes. We can do it again in 2008. And when you have the majority of the country united, things will get done. Obama is proving that he is the candidate that can do this. Here is a video of him talking about this just the other day in Iowa. I'm hoping you can get on board here...because we need everyone! :)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7vUEPNyKfGg&eurl=http://...

[bigscott]

13. but what makes you think it would happen again

very very few of the promises made by the Dems in 2006 have been kept. What makes you think the voters who came out last time to get a the sought after majority in the house and senate are not just going to stay home??

Young voters coming into the process in 08 MAY not be enough to match the 06 voters who can't be bothered this time

People get motivated when they see the fruits of their labor - not unfulfilled promises

[elizm]

18. 06 was a start, but still not enough to get the majority we need...

And what about those Dems who have disappointed you/us...Well, we vote them out of office too. Just throwing our hands up and giving up or saying "But what about...." gets us nowhere. In Obama we have a leader who can help us make that majority a reality....but he needs our help.

[lwcon]

25. But do you expect the *elected GOP* to join in that "unity"?

The voters are clearly leaning left going into this election. It's ours to lose.

By leaning right, which is what a Democratic centrist is/does these days, I'm not sure he's doing anyone (but Republicans) any favors.

Again, my question isn't about electability. It's about how he will govern, and pretending away the truth of the Conservative Movement, though perhaps a good way to get votes, suggests a troubling naiveté about the shark that is today's GOP.

___

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[elizm]

27. Then you should go ahead and vote for a candidate who will contine to divide us....

I'm not going to attempt to change your mind.

[lwcon]

29. Please do elaborate

You're worried that John Edwards would harsh the national mellow if he went all icky and marginalized the Republicans who have fucked up our country?

Please put down the hymnal and explain how the sins of the Bush years are because we awful progressives wouldn't sing Kumbaya with our admirable brethren across the aisle.

___

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[readmoreoften]

46. So it's the Democrats who are responsible for the division?

And what are we going to do to appease them? We already give them everything they want within reason: FISA, Military Commissions Act, etc. What more is Obama going to give them to make them happy? Do you think his 'niceness' is going to make them change? Are you delusional?

[bcoylepa]

12. it's simple

we can't win with Democrats alone - and Obama is smart enough to know that
you may not like it - but there is nothing more true about politics - its a numbers game
Obama knows the difference between the conservative zealots who run this country and the average person who voted Bush because they thought he was a nice guy and didn't notice how dangerously stupid he is -
Obama's face as the President of the US sends such a strong message of change to the country and the world- its as good as starting place as any
check out Samantha Powers - one of his foreign policy advisors - this guy has good people around him and a good head on his shoulders -perfect - not but so much possibility

[madrchsod]

19. wow i did`t know she was on board....

anyone who reads her work on rwanada will wonder why anyone would praise bill clinton as a great president.

[bcoylepa]

24. she really is extraordinary

she is one of the reasons I don't buy the "he's not experienced enough " argument

[madrchsod]

34. i have a good feeling that we will never see another rwanda

under obama`s presidency...

[lwcon]

37. Power (no "s") is an interesting personality

But she's reinforced some of Obama's worst tendencies, including acting like he's the only "good" Democrat and waxing unnecessarily hawkish.

Why can't we win with Democrats alone? Did you happen to notice that the last two presidential elections, before the country en masse had flipped the bozo bit on Bush were virtually tied? Did you happen to notice the 2006 Midterms, which the Democrats -- running on an anti-war platform -- handily won?

___

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[anniebelle]

15. Obama's stand on universal health care doesn't get it. n/t

[elizm]

22. And if the Republicans win in 08 you think your healthcare will get better??

It is about the Democrats winning at this point....period.

[lwcon]

26. Nope, not at this point

After Super-Duper Tuesday, it may all be over, but in the meantime Hillary and Edwards are still in the hunt.

But there is ample reason to believe Obama could run the table, and if so, I want to be ready to -- somehow -- avidly support him, as opposed to merely avidly opposing whatever gravy-sucking pig the Repubs put up.

___

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[lwcon]

38. BTW, the "nope" isn't re: healthcare

It's re: your supposition that rallying around Barack = the only thing we're allowed to do at this point = winning.

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[anniebelle]

43. I think Edwards' health care plan is the answer.

I'm not talking about anything the fascist repugs might do. . .period.

[anniebelle]

44. BTW, last I checked, Edwards is a Democrat!

[LynneSin]

21. FYI - the primary season doesn't end after Iowa

How the people in a Midwestern state vote will be completely different from how people vote in a New England state.

Huckabee fits Iowa, perhaps Obama's push with the religious voters helped him in Iowa too. But New Hampshire doesn't vote in line with God. This is New England baby, a whole new ballpark.

My guess is it's anyone's game still but I think 2008 convention will be a ratings winner

[0007]

30. When you get thirsty enough lwcon, you'll come off your high horse

and your two-bit words and find out for yourself what Obama has to offer YOU.

Only then and time will YOU will not be seeking us out to fill your insipid void.

All I can say now to you lwcon, is for you to get over it!!

[lwcon]

33. You, know I'm telling you that I'm going to be thirsty if he gets the nod

And asking y'all why Obama is the tasty beverage we need.

Perhaps the one who is too good to put forth even a single substantive quality of his/her preferred candidate is the one on the high horse.

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[Hippo_Tron]

39. Whether we like it or not, people are tired of percieved partisanship

The mainstream media has created a narrative that the country is too partisan because of both parties when really the Republicans are a lot more at fault. They say that partisanship is the reason that nothing gets done. This narrative has resonated with a lot of Americans and Obama realizes this and has capitalized on it by presenting himself as the alternative to partisanship.

Once you're in Washington people don't care about partisanship they care about whether you deliver or not. And if Obama's message does indeed resonate in November like it did last night then people will send him to the White House and give us another 6 seats in the Senate or so. This will give us the ability to deliver.

[lwcon]

41. I agree

But I do worry that someone who so gleefully embraces the Village's bogus memes isn't going to duck into a phonebooth and save the day, rather he'll muddle through, accommodating away as the Democrat-led Congress has this past year.

We shall see....

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[Hippo_Tron]

42. That is a risk I'm willing to take

Especially given that Obama's policy positions are pretty liberal.

[readmoreoften]

47. Deliver what, though? That's what I don't get. Is Fox News going to suddenly be nice?

If Obama appoints a liberal supreme court justice is Fox News going to stop calling him a treasonous liberal?

It has not worked for the Congress. They have an abysmal approval rating. It will not work for Obama.

It will only work if he caves in whenever they want him to.

[Scriptor Ignotus]

40. why did you post links to what you don't like about Obama

and then claim to want to be persuaded to like him?

you're a fraud and you're being disingenuous. we don't want your vote. we don't need your vote.

Obama is selling a message of bipartisanship, but that doesn't mean you roll over when someone is treating you like a fool.

I say good day to you sir/ma'am.

I SAID GOOD DAY!!!

[lwcon]

45. I'm being completely transparent

He has deeply disappointed me with his rhetoric, yet there is a very real chance he's the candidate I'll be supporting this year.

I'm looking for honest specifics about why I should feel good about that, and what, for want of a better word, talking points I could comfortably repeat.

Thank you for your message of party unity.

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[Scriptor Ignotus]

51. party unity?

if you're so concerned with party unity then why are you posting links disparaging the new Democratic front runner?

don't piss on my leg and tell me it's raining.

but if you are sincere in your query I'll give you an answer: substance doesn't sell. Kerry and Gore both went wonk-heavy and were duds, stolen elections or not. The public at large doesn't want steak, they want sizzle. Obama is giving them what they want and lo and behold, it works. This means Obama (or his campaign at least) is smart and playing to win. I like that a lot. That may disappoint policy wonks like us, but if you see it in the context of a broader strategy to win then maybe you will appreciate it as much I do.

there are other posts on this thread that can give you some good reading material, if you are truly interested in learning more about Obama.

apologies if I pegged you wrong.

[gorbal]

48. I personally want to like him

Actually I DO like him; I just want to know more of where he stands on certain issues. The washington post has some of his answers-

http://projects.washingtonpost.com/2008-presidential-candidates/issues/candidates/barack-obama/#health-care

but I am worried about small business and and the effect of making employers pay toward the workers health care plan. We really have to stick up to the health insurance companies and say enough is enuogh; either cow-tow to knew regulations and make yourself affordable and actually PAY what you owe your customers, or we will develope a universal plan to replace you.

I dont like that he is fifth in taking money from health insurance comapnies. Obama has enough funds and won in Iowa- Perhaps he could, in front of the press and the world, make a show of sending that money BACK! THAT would buy more love and more coverage from the american public than all the money the insurance companies sent him.

http://opensecrets.org/pres08/select.asp?Ind=F09


Good god with all the money he has why does he need that 300,000 some odd dollars when it earns him a ribbing from Michael Moore?

[killbotfactory]

49. Read these articles

Obama: The Only thing you need to know

his week I've been doing / will be doing a series of diaries entitled Obama: The Only Thing You Need to Know (Yes, the irony is apparent).

Part 1 - Constitutional Law Senior Lecturer
Part 2 - Civil Rights Lawyer
Part 3 - Running Project Vote! in Chicago
Part 4 - Community Organizer
Part 5 - Michelle Obama, First Lady

What makes Obama different from other progressive politicians is that he doesn't just want to create and support progressive programs; he wants to mobilize the people to create their own. He wants to stand politics on its head, empowering citizens by bringing together the churches and businesses and banks, scornful grandmothers and angry young.

http://www.dailykos.com/story/2007/12/20/101819/09/539/424577

[lwcon]

52. Thanks, I'll check it out n/t

[frogcycle]

50. I second your emotion

I really want to believe there is a "there" there.

Unfortunatly, Obama's biggest handicap on this board is one of his most fervent supporters who just can't stop sniping and focus on the questions you raised. I get so pissed off when I read that cat's posts that I as often as not just say "oh fuck it" and don't try to find the positive.

[Steely_Dan]

53. I read every post in this thread...

I don't know Iwcon or the Obama supporters that well. However, I must tell you that I thought what Iwcon was asking was completely legitimate. I supported Biden because he was very specific on what he would do on whole range of issues.

Iwcon asked several times in several different ways, the same question. Not a single person in the Obama camp came forward and answered his question. There were even some that tried to make him out to be an Obama hater just for asking the question(s).

I must say, I did not have a lot of concerns about Obama before, but this thread is causing me to think.

I heard his speech and I was VERY impressed. True, it wasn't meant to go into specifics...but I've heard Obama before. I have yet to hear any real specifics on the unique and important issues we face. Does this mean he hasn't been specific...NO, I'm sure that he has. I just haven't heard any specifics.

Can anyone answer Iwcon's questions. Because, they are beginning to be my questions too.

-P

[NastyRiffraff]

54. Agreed, Steely_Dan

I was just about to post something very similar when I read yours.

The OP's questions struck me as legitimate. If you don't think they are, just don't post...the OP wanted answers and you're not giving them.

I have nothing against Obama himself, but some of his supporters are real turn-offs and are not doing him a service.

[Steely_Dan]

55. Thanks...

I'm still waiting to hear from anyone on Iwcon's question....

(Big Apple user here too, RiffRaff)

-P

[lwcon]

56. Thank you, SD

BTW, my handle is "LWCON," as in "Vast Leftwing Conspiracy," but there's no way for you to know that(and as far as I know, no way for me to change it).

I am definitely starting to feel like Diogenes in this quest....

And if you haven't read Lambert's landmark post (linked in the OP), I strongly recommend it:
http://www.correntewire.com/obama_stump_speech_strategy_of_conciliation_considered_harmful

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[oasis]

57. Obama's emoticon.

:puffpiece:

[IronLionZion]

58. Barack Obama on the issues

http://www.ontheissues.org/Barack_Obama.htm

http://www.vote-smart.org/bio.php?can_id=9490

And his campaign website: http://www.barackobama.com/issues/

And it's important to understand that I'm not an Obama fan. Those resources are available for every candidate. Have at it.

[Yuugal]

59. Thanks for the pointer

I've been to alot of campaign sites and after struggling through the sea of fluff I usually don't end up with many answers. Corporatism is my major issue and Edwards is my guy. However, fate may have other plans than an Edwards win and if I'm going to be left with a choice between Hillary and Obama, I'd like some specifics. I don't like Hillary's stands on many many issues but its mostly the nastiness of her supporters than turned me so rabidly against her.

Obama supporters are making the same mistake. Most of the replies on this thread are the same nasty crap the Hillbots are famous for. Mostly its "Vote for him because we say so" or "You are obviously too stupid to pull the handle anyway so just die."

LWCON: here is your answer, at least on the issue that most concerns me:

"Barack Obama on Corporations

End tax breaks for companies that send jobs overseas. (Aug 2007)
Hold corporations responsible for pensions & work conditions. (Aug 2007)
Tax incentives for corporate responsibility. (Jun 2004)
Close tax loopholes for US companies relocating abroad. (Jun 2004)
REAL USA Plan: Reward companies that create domestic jobs. (Jun 2004)
Voted YES on repealing tax subsidy for companies which move US jobs offshore. (Mar 2005)
Voted NO on reforming bankruptcy to include means-testing & restrictions. (Mar 2005)"

What a great record! Too bad you'd never know that with all the hating Obamabots do.

[lwcon]

61. Wow, substance!

Thanks!

[Steely_Dan]

64. Thank You

I appreciate you coming forward with this information.

-P

[Laelth]

63. I can't sell you on Obama.

As I've said elsewhere, I prefer John Edwards, but I must admit that Obama's upbeat message (vacuous and pandering as it is) is more appealing to the average American than Edwards' painfully honest assessment of the problems we face and the clear plans he has to address those problems. Ronald Reagan came to power with the same kind of vacuous platitudes. Obama, obviously, is much smarter than Reagan ever dreamed of being, but Obama's campaign, so far, is coming straight out of the Republican playbook for the past thirty years.

I can only hope that if Obama becomes the next President, he will show, by his actions, that he is a true liberal ... just as Reagan proved, through his policies, that he was a die-hard conservative, despite his campaign rhetoric.

In other words, I hope Obama is lying to us about the kind of President he will be. I don't want bipartisanship. I don't want middle-of-the-road compromise policies. I want real change. I want a liberal. From his rhetoric, Obama sounds like a 1950s Republican. Again, I hope he's lying.

apologies for the substantial re-post.

:dem:

-Laelth

[David Zephyr]

65. lwcon. The thing that kept coming back to me was this: Obama opposed the War in Iraq.

I give John Edwards a pass on it now because he says it was his biggest mistake (he co-sponsored the IWR). And I believe that Edwards was sincere about this. John Edwards is a very good man and would make a good president. But he did support the war in Iraq.

Hillary still can't even come around to admit it was wrong.

The war was wrong. Obama spoke out against it knowing he would be running for the U.S. Senate. His speech today seems nearly prophetic.

The War in Iraq has hurt this nation and will continue to hurt us for a generation in blood, in national treasure and in world respect. It was the single greatest military catastrophe in our nation's history.

I certainly can not 'sell' you even though I appreciate your open mind. I kept mine open until yesterday and then I knew what my heart, mind and belly told me: Obama is the one. He's the fresh start for our nation, he has the mind and the wisdom to act on behalf of all Americans.

I can tell you this: since I made my decision, I feel so good in my heart that I made the bold choice for real change in America. President Obama. That makes me proud to be an American in so many, many ways.

Whatever you decide, I admire you for being open minded.

[Clanfear]

68. You will never stop worrying.

So vote for whomever makes you worry the least.

[jgraz]

70. "How do I learn to stop worrying and love the Obama"

Best line of the night.

[obamian]

72. This Chicago Reader Article From 1995

What Makes Obama Run? http://www.chicagoreader.com/features/stories/archive/barackobama/

[Milo_Bloom]

73. Because he's the only real option.

I am far from in love with Obama and may still vote for Bloomberg over Obama if Bloomberg enters (which I don't think he will against Obama because they would be selling the same thing), but look who else is in the room.


Hillary "Same as it ever was" Clinton. She offers nothing but the same old problems reheated and served with a fake apple pie smile. Put her in office and you will have someone who has proven an unwillingness to stand up for principles over politics... someone who will talk around issues, but never really attempt to get anything done if it might put her in a bad light.


John "Listen to what I say not what I do" Edwards cannot be trusted to follow through on ANYTHING he is promising. He is nothing more than politics as usual, trying to win the nomination by running as far left as he can. Worse, his actual plans don't even match his rhetoric, so you know what he says means very little.


Then you have Obama, who on the outside certainly looks like more flash than substance. He TALKS a great game, but I don't have enough evidence one way or the other to know what he will do when he has to risk his political career. However, at least with Obama there is a CHANCE he won't play the part of the political coward. Edwards and Clinton have been tested multiple times and both have failed miserably. One thing we can count on is Edwards and Clinton abandoning all principles for political points. Remember, this "anti-corporate warrior" voted for the bankrupcy bill and free trade with China and this one time Health warrior has put together a plan that is little more than a gift to insurance companies, oh yeah and she labeled Iran's national guard terrorists.

At least with Obama there is still some hope that he won't sell everything out the moment he has to make a difficult decision and that is much more than you are going to get with the other possible choices.

[Egnever]

74. I agree with your reasoning but

There is so much more...

Obama has a great record in illinois standing up for what he believes in including standing up against the war when it wasn't popular to do so in the middle of a horse race, sponsoring ethics reform that was the most sweeping in decades in illinois politics, passing mandatory recording of confessions so that people aren't beaten/tortured into confessing crimes, and strengthening legislation on discrimination.


His record in the senate so far is a continuation of his theme of cleaning up our house. He has already passed legislation that exposes pork barrel spending for all to see and it is up and running now at http://usaspending.gov/ . He has two bills currently pending on campaign finance reform written with fingold and others. And theres more.

His technology position is nothing short of amazing and if he gets it implemented it will change american government as we know it. There is so much good stuff in it I am not even going to try to touch on it all. But it is basically a plan to throw the government into the light squarely for all to see and dissect and even to give input on. its well worth looking at and in my opinion is in and of itself worth voting for him for. Read about it here http://www.barackobama.com/issues/technology/

There is much much more. Time and again the man has chosen public service over financial gain despite having a resume that would easily ensure him great wealth.

Its not so much what he says he will do, although he says it as well as anyone I have ever heard. Its the fact that he has a long record of actually walking the walk.

I like your instincts I think they are right on the money, I also think if you take the time to really look at obama and what he actually seems to be committed to you will find yourself quite pleased with the choice you are left with.

[alteredstate]

75. How about this:

http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=show_mesg&forum=132&topic_id=3957420&mesg_id=3957420

[Perry Logan]

76. Yea, that's a good link. It's the first positive post I've EVER SEEN by an Obama supporter!

Much more effective than badmouthing Hillary.