In place of the country that was envied above all others is a sorry excuse for a nation. Consumed by recession and war, the United States has become a global mockery. The poor state of the union and its stained reputation pose serious problems for the successive president.
I understand the appeal of Obama. He connects the people spreading messages of hope and change. I fear that this will not be enough in the coming years, however. As much as we’d like to think that baking cookies and painting rainbows will fix the nation’s problems, it just is not realistic. When in the Illinois Senate, Obama continually voted “present” rather than taking a stance on controversial issues. As a country we cannot afford to do that. Deciding to stay neutral because we want everyone to like us (or Obama wants everyone to like him) will not help us emerge from this recession. 81% of the population is unhappy with where the country is headed! Obama speaks of change. But what IS change? What IS progress? His political campaign has been fluff.
Don’t get me wrong. It’s incredibly important to have charisma and appeal to the public as well as other leaders. Many criticize Clinton for not having any charm. For being, quite frankly, mean with a flat affect.
IF Clinton gave the same inspirational sunny day speeches that Obama has she would not be taken seriously. Why? Because a woman. Women are seen as “soft” and “vulnerable.” A woman in office? No way—she would be too emotional to handle the job. If Clinton WASN’T a big stern, a bit gruff no one would listen. The fact that she is a bit stern, a bit distant makes people see her as a potential president. Despite her "lack of charisma", Clinton has clear ideas for the country. She has plans. SPECIFIC plans. Obama is hoping that his pretty smile will boost the economy and that heartfelt letters will amend relations in the Middle East. It simply isn’t so.
I do not believe that we have been fortunate to have a candidate that can truly save our country. Under the circumstances, however, I think Clinton is our best hope for a better future.
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