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>>And so he has. I think he did a fine job of explaining his reasoning...
>
>You mean "I think he'll win." ;-)

That may be so. But from what I have read it does seem like a genuine endorsement. Part of it seems to be admiration for Obama, who he called "transformational," and part of it a show of his displeasure with the direction the Republican party has taken in the past few years. He was badly used by the neocons in the Bush administration and I'm sure he's not happy about that. He also had some words about the narrowness of the McCain campaign as time goes on.

One thing I like -- this according to the Times -- is that Obama has assiduously courted Powell over the past several months. The article said Obama has met with Powell or talked to him on the phone a number of times and seemed to genuinely want to hear his advice. (During the same time McCain, who was considered friends with Powell, spoke to him on the phone once in June and hasn't spoken to him since). That tells me two things. One, he seeks out and will listen to the wise men. Two, he will take the time to develop relationships. Both are a refreshing change of pace from what we have had. Powell said as much, saying Obama can heal our damaged relationships with allies.

Powell's endorsement won't make a bit of difference to some people. For others, though -- independents, moderate Republicans, and the undecided -- this could be a very influential seal of approval. Powell is seasoned, known for being cool headed, and respected by all (other than some of the trigger happy crazies). Some are going to think if Obama's good enough for Colin Powell, he's good enough for me. Newt Gingrich (!) may have hit the nail on the head: this eliminates the inexperience argument.