Purely jest. I'm finding myself truly interested in the political landscape. For some of you, the following might be disturbing and feel wrong, but I can't help but be excited about Barack Obama. He's a politician that makes me want to act instead of react. Many people, who in the past were numb to politics, are coming out to vote. His speeches and charisma are causing some to name drop MLK and JFK. He doesn't share all of my beliefs, but he is willing to work with others, despite party affiliation, to make things happen. And, in a time when our country is looked upon with scorn, what do we need more than a charismatic, world-wise president. I'll be the first one to say that I was turned off in 2004 when actors and musicians jumped on Kerry's bandwagon. I felt like it was more anti-Bush than pro-Kerry. But now I see people with Obama buttons (Wilco) or others putting on support shows (Arcade Fire), and I can't help but think that they are just as hopeful and excited about Obama's potential presidency as I am. Oh, and O approves. I have finally voted for the right reason--I'm for a candidate--Barack Obama.
Sunday, March 2, 2008
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
7 comments:
Yikes....I'm staying out of this one. Isn't his middle name Hussein?
I'm glad politics don't interest me.
Nothing against you Trav, but this is a perfect example of why charisma and not competence win elections.
Musicians for political advice?
I too am leaning towards Barack. I can't help but think of some of our country's greatest leaders (JFK, Reagan, Clinton(yes, Clinton(not so good personally, but he did accomplish some very good things--particularly for free trade))) were also arguably the most charismatic.
In Travis' defense, and knowing he never comments on his posts, I don't think he was suggesting anyone should vote a certain way because of what Neil Young might say, but only that the nature of the support is different this time around.
Oh I don't discount charisma as a good quality, especially when it comes to foreign policy where a president's power is most effective. Competence and charisma aren't mutually exclusive at all. My opinion is that too many people put too much emphasis on it when electing officials.
I wonder though, are the things done by charismatic leaders great by nature or because of the regard for the person? I hesitate to use a sports example, but Eli Manning played pretty damn well in the Super Bowl and pulled off arguably the greatest upset in football but the excitement wore off after a couple of days. Would it have been different if maybe Peyton had done it instead or Brett Favre?
Check out Stephen Moore's article in WSJ.
http://online.wsj.com/article/SB120546222207635805.html?mod=todays_us_weekend_journal
go Obama.
Yo, I updated...now it's your turn!
Post a Comment