Garth Rattray
Barack Obama's nomination (by acclaim) as the Democratic presidential candidate made history. He was the first African American nominated to that position. No other primary election generated so much support from registered (Democratic) voters and worldwide interest.
Less than a generation ago, any 'black' man entering the White House would have to do so through the back door as a servant for the people there. Now, there's a real chance that a 'black' man will enter through the front door as a servant of all the people of America.
Unfortunately, the Democratic Party was bruised and divided by the battle between Hillary Clinton and Obama. As usual, many of the criticisms that she levelled at him have been used by the Republican camp. Clinton's defeat left almost half the Democrats feeling disenfranchised. These included the Latino population, the conservative 'white' contingent and many blue-collar workers (particularly - minimally educated 'white' working class people) - especially those from Ohio and Pennsylvania.
Although, as a running mate, Hillary Clinton would have garnered the female support and been the natural choice as a partner in the fight for the 'white' vote and blue-collar vote, her personality and her ex-president husband (Bill Clinton) would have minimised, swamped and emasculated Obama. Obviously, his choice of running mate and potential vice-president, Senator Joe Biden (an older, 'white', well-known, grass-roots male), was safe but reek of conservatism.
Image of youthfulness and change
It's a far cry from his campaign image of youthfulness and change. However, it aligns him with traditional, mainstream America and appeases some disgruntled Democrats.
On the other hand, I must admit that Republican presidential hopeful John McCain's choice for running mate, Governor Sarah Palin, was a masterful stroke aimed at revealing his maverick side, revitalising his campaign and adding a youthful, spunky, 'white', successful yet down-to-earth female with which disillusioned and disappointed Hillary Clinton supporters, 'white' and female voters, can easily relate.
The Democrats have been using George W. Bush to scare voters away from McCain. They beat him over the head with Bush every chance they get. George W. has, therefore, kept a safe distance from the presidential campaign, but managed to surreptitiously steal Obama's thunder and take some of the wind out of his sails with a political pre-emptive strike. People have, perhaps, not been noticing and, therefore, not commenting on the Bush administration's stroke of genius. It announced a withdrawal plan from Iraq and its intention to refocus its efforts on fighting the real threat to American security where it exists, in Afghanistan and Pakistan - some of the critical issues on which Obama based his campaign.
Fascinating
The dynamism of this presidential campaign is fascinating. Now, Obama has a real fight on his hands. All of a sudden, his troubles not only include attempting to sway 'white', blue-collar (working class) voters in Pennsylvania, Ohio and Michigan, they also include taking the spotlight back from Palin and convincing the American voters that his policies on health, security and the economy are superior to what the Republicans have to offer.
Some of Bush's policies have earned the United States the reputation of policing the world through bullyism, bias and intimidation. I believe that Barack Obama represents their best hope for changing that perception, acquiring allies and promoting peace.
If Obama becomes president, he will face serious challenges to his proposed health care and economic reform policies. However, his unique attributes (agent for change, bi-racial status, Muslim names with Christian upbringing) will endear him (and, therefore, America) to the entire world.
Dr Garth A. Rattray is a medical doctor with a family practice who may be reached at garthrattray@gmail.com. Feedback may also be sent to columns@gleanerjm.com.
