Reassesing Obama

For a long time I have supported Barack Obama. Shortly after he announced his candidacy I became an Obama supporter making occasional $50 to $100 donations whenever I thought the campaign needed or deserved extra support.

Lately the Obama campaign has hit some rough spots. Starting in the run up to Texas and Ohio he began taking criticism for the NAFTA statements to Canada. Shortly thereafter, another adviser made called Hillary Clinton a monster and undermined Obama's Iraq policy to forein reporters. These gaffes were followed up by Obama losses in Ohio and Texas.

March into April didn't fare better for Obama. Reverend Wright, bittergate, Bill Ayers, the worst debate performance of the campaign season has left the once unblemished Obama with the bruises of a club fighter.

So where does that leave my support for Barack?

For a long time I have supported Barack Obama. Shortly after he announced his candidacy I became an Obama supporter making occasional $50 to $100 donations whenever I thought the campaign needed or deserved extra support. Lately the Obama campaign has hit some rough spots. Starting in the run up to Texas and Ohio he began taking criticism for the NAFTA statements to Canada. Shortly thereafter, another adviser made called Hillary Clinton a monster and undermined Obama's Iraq policy to forein reporters. These gaffes were followed up by Obama losses in Ohio and Texas. March into April didn't fare better for Obama. Reverend Wright, bittergate, Bill Ayers, the worst debate performance of the campaign season has left the once unblemished Obama with the bruises of a club fighter. So where does that leave my support for Barack?

It is a fair question. As much as I liked what Obama stands for, I do not think that I knew everything about him that my opinion could not change.

So here I am still unwavering in my support for Barack. I was never one that was caught up in the hype of the inspiration or the dreams for transformation. What I have seen in Barack that I like are all of the good aspects of Bill Clinton (without the baggage).

Barack will surround himself by smart people and will listen to them and make informed decisions. His Presidency will be like his candidacy, clear lines of responsibility, ownership, and the buck will stop with him. He will undoubtedly bring in an administration that will be full of highly qualified people without respect to past favors. Barack will work with a Congress to pass legislation and not demean or demonize them for a short term win. (think of Hillary trying to pass health care reform)

This country is heading into some of the most serious and perilous times in our country's history. We need a president with an even temperament, a reasoned judgment, who will surround himself with the best people available.

We need Barack Obama for President.