Election 08

So, the election is over :)  Congratulations Mr. Obama.

While I don't particularly care what color our president's skin is, I think having our first minority president is a nice milestone.

Things I look forward to in the Obama administration:

1) A chief executive and head of state that I, and the world, can take really seriously.  It makes me feel better about my country.  Sorry George, it hasn't really happened for a while now.  You never really did grow into the job. 

2) Every problem that has been the Republicans' is now the Democrats' problem.  They can bear the burden of being the majority and the Republican party can reform and reshape so as to be effective in  two or four years.  Strong leaders and innovative thinkers won't have to toe the line with the president and can actually do their jobs and think for themselves a little bit.  The few years are crucial for the development of the new conservative brand.  It will interesting to see who emerges as the new leader.

Negatives I foresee with the Obama administration:

1)  Quick withdrawal from Iraq and the destabilization of the Middle East.  If the US leaves Iraq before the country is stabilized and unified it seems likely that the Kurds with push for independence agitating Turkey, Iran, and Syria.  Plus, central and southern Iraq could completely fall apart.  But, for all of Barack's talk, I doubt he will be able to put together his withdrawal.  As soon as all the consequences become more clear he won't want the destabilization of the Middle East as part of his legacy.  The weight of the Iraq war will feel different to Obama when he's in the Oval office.  If you voted for Obama because you think he will bring a quick end to the Iraq war I think you will be disappointed.  

2) A massive leftward swing in policy as the one-party rule gives the Democrats free-reign.  How non-partisan will an Obama presidency be if he doesn't need the Republicans for anything?  It could be like the 1930s and 1960s.  If you voted for Obama because you think he will govern from the center, I think you will be disappointed. 

3)  While I don't buy the fear mongering about Obama by some on the right, I think he represents a radical swing in worldview.  He could be our first post-modern president.  He could bring some freshness to the presidency, but watch out for everything that comes with it.

My hope is not in a politician or a party.  I'm not losing any sleep over this, I hope you're not either.