Comments on: Obama or Nobama?

By: Vicky

Vicky — Fri, 25 Apr 2008 18:32:31 +0000

I think it’s great that people are interested in politics full stop – whether it’s in their own country or any other country in the world – although it’s definitely more of a contest of personalities in the US and I suppose therein lies the rub.

The emphasis has shifted from the difference in the policies of Republicans vs Democrats to the fund-raising/singing abilities of Obama vs Clinton; and whilst it’s highly entertaining to watch and great fun to take sides as per Scotland for Obama, it does take away from the fact that what the Democrats really need is someone who has the ability to beat McCain in November.

Having said all of that, and knowing that there’s not a huge difference between their policies, I prefer Obama over Clinton; he’s optimistic (arguably naively so, but that’s not a bad thing), he’s young and he doesn’t have an ex-president for a spouse. However, Hillary might have the edge over him in some of the swing states and if that means a Democratic win in November then I would vote for her.

I don’t consider saying that as ‘telling Americans how to vote’ – as if my opinions are going to sway anyone anyway (!!); but I think it’s perfectly reasonable for me to express clearly that I don’t feel comfortable with the possibility that those who represent me are influenced by someone like George Bush.

Oh, and Obama has the best ‘fan site’ in lolbama.com

By: jameshigham

jameshigham — Tue, 15 Apr 2008 07:54:15 +0000

I am pretty sceptical of most political campaigning. Of course, I have my views. But I have never joined a club, I’ve never gone on a demonstration and I’ve never worn any political t-shirts. This is because I know it will make next to no difference.

I agree with this – esp on party political things.

By: Scott

Scott — Mon, 14 Apr 2008 14:53:31 +0000

PS Should have said that I’m not convinced by Obama personally – but then I’m a keen reader of Andrew Stephen in the New Statesman (I think all of the stories are archived on-line at their website – including the tale of the Life Magazine issue, and the “business associate” in Chicago (who will no doubt feature in any McCain campaign) both of which left me with plenty of questions).

By: doctorvee

doctorvee — Mon, 14 Apr 2008 11:41:24 +0000

Ah yes, how could I forget that Guardian campaign! That is a great example of what I am talking about. It would be, I think, the height of arrogance to assume that anyone in America (or even here) cares what I think about the US Presidential election.

By: Scott

Scott — Mon, 14 Apr 2008 08:28:35 +0000

I didn’t post on this topic but also found myself in the unusual position of agreeing with Calum Cashley (whose sarcasm and brusque nature is not merely characteristic of his posts, but also his replies to comments, however well intended or informative). I remember the Guardian write-in campaign in the last election where various Islingtonistas wrote well-meaning letters to voters in a borderline county in a borderline state.

What happened? Bush won big there, and the Republican majority was far greater than ever before. The local newspaper started a campaign, and people objected to the interference – in the same way I do when passing acquaintances from overseas tell me to vote for X or Y, who has really impressed them.

I’m really interested in the US campaign, watch the Daily Show, download Colbert – and admire Kezia for getting so involved, but…

CHeers

Scott