I am going to vote for either Hillary or Obama. But which?
On the one hand, I really like Obama's website better than Hillary's. He gives much more extensive explanations of where he stands on what issues, and what his plans are to address them. And I have to agree his is a more rousing speaker. Hillary got sort of defensive and petty in the New Hampshire debates. Blaaarg.But I also agree with those who argue that there something to be said for Hillary's more extensive experience. I found this article by Gloria Steinem incredibly compelling, which opens by asking readers whether a female with Obama's social and racial profile, and his limited political experience, would ever really stand a chance getting elected as president. Hillary's preparedness in debate and list of accomplishments impress me. When people criticize her for lacking a human touch, it reminds me of how schoolkids hate the smartest, most prepared kid in the class. That kid was certainly annoying, but I also hope the person running my country was that kid. I am sure Hillary would be far more than competent as president.
Also in Hillary's favor, as far as I'm concerned: SHE IS A WOMAN. That's right, I said it. I would be truly moved by seeing a woman in the role of Commander in Chief of the leader of the free world. That would be a huge deal to me. I was surprised by this article, which suggests that feminist pride is a more relevant factor for women my mother's age than mine. Female friends and readers, what do you think? If I am being honest with myself, I have to admit that her gender is a huge push for me to vote her way.
So who will I vote for? I am still undecided. As an Arizona voter, I have until February 5th to hem and haw, watch more debates on YouTube, and come to a decision.
6 comments:
Although I think I might like Obama's message a bit more, but I would vote for Hillary every chance there is. I find it shameful that even Pakistan has had a woman chief executive before the US of A.
And Gloria Steinem is right - no presidential candidate in history has been as qualified as Hillary, because no presidential candidate in history has hat the chance to be in the White House itself for 8 years prior to running for President.
Nick, I agree that the U.S. is overdue for a woman president. But we're also overdue for a president not named Clinton or Bush. I fear that Hillary's election would only exacerbate partisanship in Washington.
I agree with you, Nick, on the white house experience she has making her unbeatable in terms of a certain kind of readiness for the job. But also I'm frightened by the prospect of Bush-Clinton-Bush-Clinton, not even counting when Bush was VP...
But another thing I always think about is the current fiscal and military situation the US is in at the moment. Are the problems that the country faces solveable by someone who is relatively new and inexperienced in the world of Washington and the world of the... um.. world? Or are they problems that someone like Hillary, who knows Washington all too well, might be better equipped to bite right into and get to work on?
I'm not sure... I would lean towards the latter, but neither one of them is a governor with lots of problem-solving experience. Hillary's got a better background in private sector relationships, possibly a plus on our financial circumstance, and Obama is someone who would probably be better at bridging the gap that exists between us and the rest of the world (especially the Muslim world) that may alleviate some of the strains that are buckling our military.
They should run together, Obama as the veep! I have a strange inkling that Ellen Goodman may write on this subject in a column to be published tomorrow....
Of course, that doesn't help me decide who to vote for in the primary. I feel like a square. Everyone else our age seems to be automatically for Obama. :(
I'm actually hands down for Hillary. No question in my mind who I'll vote for, so don't feel all alone, Sarah!
Here is what the Atlanta Journal-Constitution editorial board had to say about the Clinton-Obama debate:
For reasons largely outside her control, Clinton is also one of the more reviled figures in American politics. That sentiment is unfair and irrational, and she has done little to deserve it. But it exists nonetheless, and it would limit the amount of public support she would be able to rally as president.
Obama, on the other hand, has demonstrated an appeal across many of the lines that have divided America. That is a critically important attribute, because the scale of changes that must be made to correct America's course cannot be accomplished with majorities of 50 percent plus one.
Post a Comment