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Wednesday, January 30, 2008 12:00 AM

There's nothing the matter with Kansas

Barack Obama goes "home" to one of the reddest states in the nation and promises to bridge the divide between parties.

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  • Thursday, January 31, 2008 02:11 AM

    Why are Americans so shallow?

    Maybe I'm the ultimate cynist, but does anyone truly believe Barack Obama--let alone any politician--can unify the US across ideological lines? Let's get real. The reason why the United States is a functioning (yes, there is debate as to how well it's functioning), pluralistic, multi-party democracy and not the converse is a consequence of the diverse ideological spectrum across our nation. Do Obama-worshippers (and that includes the MSM) really believe its feasible for a man with a 95% score from the ADC to unite the US electorate? Obama's presidential platform and voting record is conventionally liberal.

    He's adamantly pro-choice, pro-affirmative action, extremely liberal on illegal immigration, and not looked well upon by the business community. Personally, I haven't the slightest problem with this--although, I admit I fall into that tenth percentile of Democrats who approve of free trade. Regardless, once the American electorate really starts paying attention in the general election, be it through using their brains or via Republican attack ads; voters who don't identify with Obama's political ideology (and that's a very large chunk of the American electorate) with leave him in droves.

    Adoration towards Obama is only manifesting itself among non-liberal voters due to Obama's mesmerizing, albeit superficial campaign rhetoric which is saturated with uplifting oratories, yet meager amounts of substance, i.e., policy proposals and discussions of issues. If Obama wins the Democratic nomination, he will be forced by his Republican rival (presumably McCain) to elucidate upon his positions. Call me crazy, but many conservatives and moderates won't cast their hats into Obama's ring once they catch wind of his unabashed support of abortion rights or his willingness to grant drivers licenses to illegal immigrants. Sure, Obama could win a slight majority, but that hinders any HOPE for REAL CHANGE in Washington, or at least the kinds Obama desires. Obama and the Democrats will need to politick and water-down a lot of proposals for they will have to win some approval from Republicans in Congress. This doesn't sound like change in Washington to me. You cannot kill a 232-year old political institution with kindness; and unfortunately, that's Obama's campaign strategy.

    We're in for a rude awakening this November if Barack wins the nomination.

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