Run Barack Run

So, it looks like Barack Obama is going to run for the presidency in 2008. According to news sources, Obama filed papers establishing an exploratory committee to raise funds for the 08 election. Is America ready for a black president?

Personally, I don't think the first question ought to be, "are we enlightened enough to vote for a black man." The fact remain that Obama is not very experienced in actual governing (though quite adept at campaigning), having won his senate seat in 2004, and before that serving just 8 years in the Illinois state legislative branch. Given that govenorship is a better prerequisite for presidency, the lack of legislative experience may not necessarily hurt him, but there has to be something said about such a young, inexperienced candidate.

Additionally, there are other serious political matters to address. First, he admitted in his first book that he has used marijuana and cocaine. Given the puritanical hipocrasy that runs rampant in America, there is sure to be some static to his past illicit activities. Next, his name is Barack Hussein Obama. Imagine the rednecks and knee-jerk reactionists having a field day with his nomenclature. Also, Obama himself regarded himself as "lucky" in his latest book for such an easy race for his 2004 senate seat. He has yet to be tested in a tough, negative campaign, which the 08 presidential race will definitely devolve into...

Yet, after reading "Audacity of Hope," I'm seriously considering volunteering for his campaign. He's young, idealist, and remarkably humble in his assessment of governing. His positions on many issues coincide with mine, including the idea of government fiscal responsibility, need to improve and/or update social New Deal programs, and the return to an intelligent debate in America (replacing the cantankerous hyperbole that has become the fractured landscape of current American politics). His work during his short stints in law-making have included working to strengthen the Pell Grant, border security, reduction of conventional weapons, and governmental transparency. Looking at his submitted bills in the 110th Congress include many bills aiding education.

I like this guy. I'd vote for him. I just don't know if he'll win. Audacity to Hope.

Barack Obama website
110th Congress Record