Wednesday, February 13, 2008
Pursuant to minimum forethought and deliberation befitting the obvious, I am breaking with no particular tradition whatsoever to enthusiastically endorse the nomination of
Barack Obama for President of the United States, 2016.
My feeling is that he should actually be ready by then.
In the meantime, we’ll just have to do with the much more qualified, extremely intelligent, and thoroughly tested Hillary Clinton, her lack of comparable oratory skills notwithstanding. I’d compare their records to make my point, but, for all intents and purposes, Senator Obama doesn’t have one. As for his argument that he’s been opposed to the war from the very beginning, while Senator Clinton has not, please refer to my piece entitled “Whoops” (February 9, 2008). If you’re thinking about voting for Senator Obama because some poll shows him a few points ahead of Senator McCain, “were the election held today,” ask yourself if you would bet your life, or your country, on the accuracy of that poll. Polls are often incorrect. More to the point, the election isn’t going to be held today, but over eight grueling campaign months from now. Compare the candidates’ records. Ask yourself what skills and experience a President needs to be effective. Make up your own mind, no matter what the polls may suggest.One last thing… I’d like to assume that black American voters might prefer Senator Obama because they sincerely believe he’d make a comparable, if not better President. I’d like to assume that, but will forgive some of them for just plain wanting some of their same color in The White House – to which, I’ve got to say, it’s about time. Thing is, I’d like to make the same argument for all those women out there who would like, once and for all, to put an end to any lingering sentiment to the effect that there are some things they just can’t do because they’re women. If you believe Senator Obama is more qualified, vote for him, absolutely. But if you think Hillary Clinton is at least as qualified as Barack Obama to be President, well, vote for her and put an end, once and for all, to any doubt about the abilities of your gender. Senator Obama will run again in 2016. Could be a while before another woman, as qualified as Senator Clinton, is this close to being President.
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