Austinist: Presidential Election Recap: McCain, Obama Both Shine

Random

Wed, 05 Nov 2008 13:50:00 -0600

While the historical significance of this ought to be enjoyed and appreciated by all in the short term, we ought not get ahead of ourselves. There are two definitions of change that must be reconciled in the next 4 years. Most of the country voted for Barack Obama based on a more modest notion of change - a change of tone in Washington from the divisive politics of the last 16 years. A change towards bipartisanship and togetherness. The other is a liberal notion of change - progressive policies and a fundamentally different look at the American system. I don't think this is the change most people voted for. We'll see which change Barack Obama brings us.

Grape Ape

Wed, 05 Nov 2008 13:02:36 -0600

McCain's total undoing was letting others lead him in a wrong direction. Don't get me wrong, I'm glad they did, but a real John McCain gave that speech last night, not the one who had been campaigning all along. The thing that bothered me the most about his speech was his crowd. Nothing like an all white, bitter crowd to boo every time Obama's name was mentioned even though the person they were supporting was asking them not to. Conversely, I thought it was awesome when everyone in Grant Park cheered for McCain after listening and letting him finish his speech. I'm not sure quite what it was about last night (a combination of a lot of things I suppose), but it was as if the entire world let out a collective sigh of relief and a shout of cheer in hopes that this country may be in the hands of someone who actually gets it for once. Well done Allen.

JohnM

Wed, 05 Nov 2008 12:27:14 -0600

I think if McCain spoke like he did last night more often, he might have had a chance...it was very graceful and eloquent, and made it easier for me to respect him. Way to go McCain for not turning out to be an asshole.

scruffylooking

Wed, 05 Nov 2008 12:03:40 -0600

Great post Allen. Too bad Prop 8 passed (anti gay marriage for the TX folks) here in CA. This progressive journey is just starting...

batlady

Wed, 05 Nov 2008 11:12:42 -0600

Well said, Allen. Well done, America.