Bandwagon?
So I've done it. I've switched my support from Hillary to Obama. There are a few reasons for it, and here they are, in order:
1. I don't really like all the race-baiting that's been coming from the Clinton camp recently. I realize that the Clintons are old hands in the political game and that winning an election requires a certain amount of nastiness, but it leaves a bad taste in my mouth, particularly when the Obama campaign has decided to use the "We're above all that" strategy and is refusing to hit back, for the most part. I think the racial crap is horribly divisive at a time when the entire party should be coming together.
2. I don't think Hillary Clinton is a good general election candidate. Where Obama has the potential to get some crossover and independent voters, I don't think Hillary can do that. She is just too disliked (read: loathed) on the right to have any sort of crossover appeal, particularly against John McCain, that straight-shooting maverick who appeals so much to independents and wavering Democrats. Also, I think that the US is still far too sexist to elect a woman right now. The thing about Obama is that even though he's a black guy, he's still a guy and that's enough for a lot of people. It makes me sad to write that sentence, but at least for the moment it appears that possession of a set of testicles (and not big brass ones, or Hillary would be a shoo-in) is a requirement to be POTUS.*
3. Obama is by far the most inspiring speaker I have ever heard -- better than Clinton in his heyday. His speeches make me want to believe in him, and I do, with some reservations. I believe that he means what he says, and I believe that he'll do a good job as president.
So, two reasons to vote against Hillary and one to vote for Obama. I guess that's what changes a race. Hillary had my support, but she lost it.
That said, I'll still happily and excitedly vote for Hillary if she gets the nomination. I just hope that I'll be voting for Obama instead.
I'm still so excited about this election. With any luck, we'll soon be electing into office our first black President, or our first female president, and I'm confiden that either one will be great. All of the above aside, I'm still excited about this election. I'm so happy to just have candidates to be excited about.
* Please, no jokes about how Bill's are hanging from her rearview mirror/over her mantle/whatever.