This past election I supported a candidate more than I ever have in the past. I donated time, money, my voice and ultimately my vote for Barack Obama. I truly felt that Obama would bring about the changes the country needed, even if I didn’t agree with every policy. But I have to admit to being a little gun shy in believing in a politician.
Back in the 2000 election, I supported a candidate that sat in the debate and spoke of better foreign policy by being humble. He also spoke of tightening spending in Washington, and accountability and transparency. I supported that candidate, even tough I didn’t agree with every policy, and got 8 years of a George Bush that was nothing like the man from the campaign trail.
So of course I was a bit concerned over what might change about Obama once he had the office. And my concerns deepened immediately after the election. I wasn’t completely sold on his choices for cabinet positions, especially Hillary Clinton as Secretary of State. This was a women who so lacked true foreign policy experience that she had to make stuff up about being under gun fire in Bosnia.
So I decided to take a look at President Obama’s first week in office and see how things are going. And I have to say, so far, pretty, pretty, pretty good. In his first week he has moved towards closing down Guantanamo Bay, lifted the gag rule on banning federal funds for international groups that promote or perform abortion, very publicly opened a dialogue with muslims, and even stepped in to stop Citibank from using bailout money to purchase a $50 million private jet. That’s change I can believe in.
This is of course just the first week. And these are the types of things we should expect to see. The real test is still ahead with turning around the ever declining economy and successfully pulling us out of Iraq. And of course all it takes is one issue, like 9/11, to potentially throw the administration off track. But so far, I’m feeling optimistic. How do you feel?
I feel hopeful towards America's future, motivated to be of service to my community, and challenged to improve the lives of the children in our failing education system. It sounds corny to say, but I am behind President Obama because I feel like he is behind me.
Obama has done a tremendous job so far, and I have full confidence in him, and his administration.
Americans all over should feel proud to have a phenomenal man like Barack Obama as President, I know I do.
I completely agree Tala, he is exactly what America needs.
Its good to know his work is appreciated.