>>>>>I will leave the race issue aside, other than to observe that it is critical. Are we ready to elect a black President? Are we ready to elect a female President? We'll see.
>>>>
>>>>Why is it critical?
>>>>
>>>>>
>>>>>What I like about Obama is that he talks sense. He is a pragmatist to the point that his fellow black legislators in Springfield practically spitballed him. They now speak of him with respect. He is a guy who wants to get things done.
>>>>
>>>>Well, every Joe, Dick and Harry say they'll get things done. I just haven't heard him say anything that sets him apart. I think his supporter are just banking on his race and charisma.
>>>
>>>
>>>Let's just say we disagree. He has a lot more going for him than you have noticed so far.
>>
>>
>>Ok.
>>But I'm not trying to pick on you or Obama. I've seen or listened to a lot of the debates. I just want to know what his supporters hear/see that I'm not. Maybe I'll vote from him too if I knew his "whats" and "hows".
>
>
>Obviously I can only speak for myself. Here's why I find Obama an appealing candidate. I like it that he's easygoing. Things don't seem to ruffle him, which I think is a great trait in such polarized political times. Along the same lines, I like it that he is a pragmatist. He would rather get half a loaf, if that's all he can get, than come away with nothing. We need a bipartisan leader. I think everyone has had enough gridlock in DC.

Come on Mike. You don't think he's partisan? Of course he is, he just don't want you to know it... yet. I don't even know if there is such as a bipartisan politician.

"Bipartisan" is just a campaign rhetoric.

>
>On a more personal level I just like his style. He's charismatic, he's energetic, and he's positive. Nothing seems to faze him. Put all this together and I think we might actually get something done.

I don't know... being charismatic, handsom and energetic may make you popular person, but it doesn't make you a problem solver or a good leader.

>
>Better yet, he doesn't need a team of handlers to keep him from shooting himself in the foot. That would be refreshing after the past 16 years.