Obama
All my adult life, I've seen politicians talking about addressing problems in our country, but never do they talk about taking on the root cause of those problems. For me, the difference between Obama and every other serious contender for the presidency during my adult life is pretty simple. Everyone else talks about fixing problems through a broken political system; Obama talks about changing the system. It makes sense really; if you're job is to be a politician, then you're employed by the system. This speech moved me to tears. Yes, it's half an hour long, but it's required listening (you don't have to stare at the screen) for anyone voting in this election.
Comments
Although Hill constantly attack his "words", the power of his speech is just unstoppable because it actually shakes and wakes up people's mind to the fundamental issues we can't ignore.
Like you said, having specific numbers and plans are great. But, you can't lead a nation without uniting people's heart and mind.
This sucker had a big impact on a number of my neighbors.
For the benefit of Bill and others: shush now posted the text of the speech here.
@Bill: Everyone else talks about fixing problems through a broken political system; Obama talks about changing the system.
It remains to be seen if he can actually pull it off. I won't multiply words I wrote over at shushie's post, but... I am impressed. For someone so new, he is very well-spoken. I am considering giving him my vote, to swing the political pendulum back and see what he does.
Again, I am largely in agreement with emily: I see the GOP in the grip of neocons, Big Oil, and evangelicals; and I see the Dems fractured by the groups that climbed aboard since the civil rights movement. (Note: I think the civil rights movement was good and necessary, but many interest groups that aligned themselves with the Dems, i.e. during reconstructionist phases, fractured the party, IMHO.) Obama might bridge the gap that Dems have been repeatedly spanked on for years: Heartland voters. Dems have lost their votes time and time again because they haven't produced candidates that will honor morals and values. I think Obama may be an exception, as he seems to be a pious yet gentle man, but... I hope on that point, he doesn't go the way Jimmy Carter did; Carter being the last deeply religious man the Dems served up.
I totally agree! I've mentioned here a couple of times how Hilary seems to have her sites set on the prize and not the job.
Obama has moved me to tears with his speechs as well and to those who say that it's only words and he doesn't have the ability to back it up..I say, We've tried it "thier way" for years now...Let's see what he can do!!
I'm sure you've heard the old expression that "Insanity is doing the same thing over and over again and expecting different results"....Obama is offering us a chance to free ourselves from that insanity. He's got my vote!
Hey Bill! *waves*... long time no see... yeah you about nailed my thoughts on the Clintons too.
woof