Ok. I Think I Have An Admission To Make. I'm Pretty Sure I'm Starting To Get Excited About Obama.

[OPERATIONMINDCRIME]

I just got done watching both of their rallies. I still think Hillary overall would make the better President. But after watching Obama's speech, I felt excited. I don't know what it is. I just think we've had 7 years of sheer hell. Politics has been so stressful, so exhausting, so disheartening. But he really is a bit fresh; isn't he. He has this amazing ability to get his message across and I'm starting to believe he can totally cross party lines and pull people in. He has the energy and voice that a campaign needs in my opinion. He just has amazing delivery. His message actually reminds me so much of John Kerry's, who I happen to love, but the way Obama puts it forth just blows John out of the water. He actually MAKES you listen to him, and you just CAN'T turn away almost. It's almost impossible to sit there and listen to him and NOT like him. That's my perception of it anyway. Then, after his speech, they cut to McCain. Talk about world's apart! It hit me right then and there: Obama will run RAMPANT over McCain in the General Election. I can't possibly see McCain being able to do a DAMN THING to knock down Obama's likeability or momentum. He just can't possibly match the energy and inspiration, and I think will handily get hammered.

I think Hillary is great too. I find her more experienced, knowledgeable and all around better qualified. But that only counts if you get there. As of tonight, I think I'm starting to think that Obama is unstoppable as it relates to his message and presence. I find myself excited, because it's been so long since there's been a candidate that motivated people like he does; that inspires people like he does; that sounds so fresh; that speaks so well. How can you not be excited for our party?

I dunno. Just typing random thoughts really. But all I know is that after watching the Hillary speech, I was inspired but it seemed somewhat 'politically typical', even if strong. But Obama was different. Nothing typical about him. He just MAKES you want to like him and support him, and I find it hard not to.

So that's all I'm gonna say for now.

No longer knowing who he wants to win,

OMC

[babylonsister]

1. Thanks for your honesty! He does have something special I haven't

seen since I've been of voting age. He also makes me believe he wants important changes as much as I/we do.

[madrchsod]

42. obama has energized a whole new generation of voters

i`ve waited a long long time for someone to remind the people that we are the party who believes that we can change the world around us and do so with out fear.

i`m impressed that obama at least understands we must learn from the past to go into the future...

[Bread and Circus]

2. Nice post, and I'm sorry for any crud I've thrown your way.

:toast:

[David Zephyr]

3. "Cynicism is a sorry kind of wisdom."

That was mighty big of you.

Obama is reaching out to all Americans.

This is the America I had always hoped to see.

I think your post is simply swell, OMC.

Edit for K&R.

[tammywammy]

18. You said exactly what I was thinking

But probably better.


k&r

[Adelante]

19. I put that quote in my sig, forgetting sigs were off

I hadn't heard him say that before.

[Big Blue Marble]

51. I am thinking about using that quote too.

Especially since Webb really disappointed me today.

[mopinko]

34. that is a great quote. welcome aboard, omc

glad to see posts like yours, and others in this thread. let's start binding up the wounds, eh? not to gloat, but it is over. let's move on now.

(i have to say i loved the bit about obamicans.)

[OPERATIONMINDCRIME]

35. Well, I Wouldn't Say That.

I don't by any means believe it to be over. Hillary absolutely still has a shot and I'd still be excited to see her win it.

But all my OP is really saying, is that come tomorrow, when people at work or whatever ask me who I'm for, I'm not quite sure how I'm gonna answer anymore, or at the least I know I won't be answering quite as off the top of my head as previously.

[Raejeanowl]

58. But It's Wisdom Nonetheless

And it kills me to see the American people-who are finally ending an abusive relationship-fall in love so hard when I know the guy is handsome and sexy and shallow and they will probably only have their hearts broken again.

[LittleClarkie]

4. Cool. You can be happy either way then.

That's a good place to be.

[OPERATIONMINDCRIME]

9. Well, I HAVE Kinda Said That From The Start LOL

I've been excited about them both since day one.

It's just tonight, when I re-ran Hillary's speech in my head and matched it up to McCain, I saw her beating him but I saw them as competitors. But in contrast, after seeing Obama's speech go right into McCain's, I didn't see them as competition. I saw Obama as completely running over him. I sat for a minute, put things into perspective, and posted.

[goodhue]

5. Yes, I know the feeling

It hit me about three weeks ago

[BeyondGeography]

6. It's allowed...and plenty of good seats are still available

:toast:

[meow mix]

7. thats because he's our JFK, such a feeling is normal that being the case

a lot of ppl are starting to see what he can help us accomplish, with a little unity.

[TheWraith]

8. Good. Something would be wrong with you if you weren't.

Obama has that effect.

[alteredstate]

10. I live in an "early" state

and I've been able to hear Senator Obama speak at seven rallies, and I've met him twice. I know what you mean. The more I saw of him, the more I liked him.

I'm ready for change and hope.

[jab105]

24. I saw him too...

he is absolutely magic in person...the best...

[NightWatcher]

11. welcome to the movement. there is a power with him

[K Gardner]

12. I just fell over dead. Thanks :-) But seriously.. I keep saying, if

people would just LISTEN to him... :hi:

[NC_Nurse]

13. Great post!

Thanks! :hi:

[XemaSab]

14. Consider yourself... at home.

Consider yourself... part of the family. :D

[yeswecan08]

15. Soon everyone here will be for Obama - there is no other option

[hibiscus]

53. I like your username :)

[calteacherguy]

16. Change happens from the bottom up; it's all about inspiring the masses

to bring about real change.

Obama has the gift.

[blogslut]

17. I knew you knew

:hi:

[mdmc]

20. He has AMAZED me

you know me, a rotten leftist... no pukey DLC'er could ever get my vote.

But there is something about him...

Its...like...a...cult or something:)

I starting to fall myself...

[mmonk]

21. I understand what you're saying. I think this part you said sums it up:

"I felt excited. I don't know what it is. I just think we've had 7 years of sheer hell."

It's this he is speaking to.

[Danger Mouse]

22. Glad that you're keeping an open mind!

:hi:

[frazzled]

23. You've expressed it perfectly.

I feel the same way, which is why it breaks my heart to hear people attacking one candidate or the other. Hillary Clinton would make an excellent president, and I know she would work her butt off night and day for what we believe in (at least on domestic issues; I still have some problems with her on foreign policy). But sometime late this fall I had the same revelation you just did: we need something else right now. It is, oddly, not her time. The nation has been traumatized, and we really do need someone to usher us into a new era, to pull us together, to give us back the hope that the country can work again. It may just be rhetoric, but it's effective rhetoric, and we need it. And I'm not sure we can get anything done without this fresh start, this new energy.

But you said it so much better ... and it's a big thing to wrap your head around, especially when you find Senator Clinton to be so strong and prepared.

[Coexist]

25. Oh my, is this your 'coversion' speech!

I had one, too. I know it sounds odd, but he inspires you, encourages you to not be afraid to want something better.

I feel you.

And he inspires my kids - that is breathtaking as a parent.

[onenote]

26. Sounds like the process I went through.

[apocalypsehow]

27. Excellent post. I supported Edwards until he dropped out, and now I support

the Senator from Illinois, wholeheartedly. I think Hillary Clinton would be a good president, too, and if she wins the nomination I'll support her. But I'm hoping Senator Obama is our nominee.

[psychopomp]

28. I remain skeptical but I, too, have been won over

Sen. Obama has got "it," and if he is true to his political roots (when he was organizing on the streets of Chicago)he will make a great President.

[KittyWampus]

29. Obama will look like JFK and McCain will look like Nixon.

[StrongBad]

30. Got that same feeling after his Iowa victory speech

Like you I had no problems with a prospective Hillary candidacy, but something about Obama just seemed so refreshing.

If you haven't seen it yet check out his Iowa speech on YouTube. It's a great capsule synopsis of what I mean.

[tandot]

31. Its kinda funny because I had the same thought tonight

I still like Hillary but I liked how he went after McCain. I liked his speech and also can understand why so many people are excited about him.

I will not be disappointed whoever will be our nominee.

[Tatiana]

32. Welcome to the way we've been feeling.

:grouphug:

I want to win. And I want a filibuster-proof Democratic majority. Obama can not only deliver the presidency, but he has the coattails to really, truly, finally send a collective F-you to Lieberman while assuring a comfortable Democratic majority.

He can really unite a group of diverse people and build a coalition. His past work as an organizer has served him well. He can pull the people together needed to get the job done.

[BlueStateGirl]

33. I am having the opposite reaction. I am less and less enthused

by him. But, I think that has to do with spending too much time on this board.

Every time I see a gloating post, or a post about Hillary yelling in El Paso, I sour on Obama a little bit more. I don't understand how his some of his supporters seemingly can't wait to reach across the aisle and hug Republicans, but seem to relish attacking Hillary and Bill Clinton.

I think , if I am going to enthusiastically support Obama if he gets the nomination, I am going to have to check out of this place for awhile.

[RoadRage]

36. Great Post.. and LOVE YOUR User Name.. OMC - best album evah!

Geoff Tate = One of the best singers around.. love old 'Ryche stuff. ;)

[OPERATIONMINDCRIME]

38. Hear Hear To That!

7 Octave range. Amazing.

[Bonobo]

37. Very few people are strong enough to change their minds, OMC. You're a good man.

[sandnsea]

39. Most Kerry people support him for a reason

But you got it baby. You're Fired Up!!

Check out his record in Illinois, you'll find he actually has the record of making real change in health care, wages, the justice system, ethics, etc. He's got a pretty good record in DC too.

[hibiscus]

54. As a Kerrycrat, I agree

Obama has gained the strong support of many loyal Kerry supporters.

[ClayZ]

40. Bravo! K and R

[gravity]

41. Join the cult

:toast:

[graywarrior]

43. Yeehaa!

[Colobo]

44. He's getting to you, brother! Welcome aboard! Let's rescue America!

[Laura PourMeADrink]

45. Thank you darlin !

[saracat]

46. Odd.I can listen to him and I don't like him.In fact I really dislike him .

I am repulsed enmough by his lack of substance that nothing in the world will make me vote for him in the GE and I know many who feel the same. But we are the wrong gender and demographic as I have been informed tonight by his supporters, so he doesn't need our votes anyway.I am glad you can be excited because I feel that I can no longer be part of this.Each to his own I suppose.

[woolldog]

69. lack of substance?

What did you think of his economic policy proposals today? Those weren't substantive enough for you?

[FrenchieCat]

47. Thank you for that!

Just imagine 2009 Camelot in Technicolor!

[cooolandrew]

48. All warmly welcomed to Team Obama. He will make America hppy again at the very least.

Yes we can, yes we can :bounce:

[angie_love]

49. That is very big of you to move forward like this, surprising and refreshing

:toast:

[TheDonkey]

50. Anecdotally I've heard a lot of people wanting to switch sides. He inspires Hope and Solidarity

and people are thriving off that in 2008. So many years of fear, death, corruption. It was telling when 9/11Guliani went down in flames. People do not want to go there they do not want to be afraid they want to DREAM.

[OPERATIONMINDCRIME]

52. Well, One Thing Different That I Have Noticed This Election More Than Any Other,

is that around the office whenever I'm in or overhearing a conversation about candidates, with the question of "so who do you like", it's always pertaining to Obama vs Hillary, not a Dem vs repub type discussion. That's really uplifted my spirits this time around, since usually at least SOMEBODY from the other side would be being discussed. But lately, I barely hear a THING about their candidates, and it's all just a Obama vs Hillary type thing. I'm quite encouraged!

[Yael]

55. Thanks for sharing that

He is an impressive candidate. After John dropped out, I took a fresh look at both -- and decided that Obama has the greater chance of motivating people to go to the polls in November. After the primary excitement is over, I don't think Hillary has that same level of enthusiasm behind her.

We have a career (R) in the house who is to the right of Bush. We are running a relatively unknown Dem against him -- and I think the Obama coattails can make it happen.

If policy is a concern, think about this -- with a COMPLETE SWEEP of the house and senate, our reps will have the green light to enact legislation even more progressive than what the candidates are promoting now.

Thanks for your thoughtful post.

[Rowdyboy]

56. I tried to stay neutral between Obama and Clinton but lately I've caught myself

rooting for him and being very excited when he wins. I agree that she would probably make a better president(because of experience) but, as you say, "that only counts if you get there"

Thanks for this thread. It reminds me of the old DU, before the inmates took over the asylum.

[Raejeanowl]

57. OMC-Not You!

Walk into your bathroom and splash some cold water on your face. Pinch yourself. Wake up. Break the spell.

[Avalux]

59. I won't welcome you just yet.....

but I'm glad you're considering Obama. :hi:

[Whisp]

60. now why can't I believe you?

I think you're pulling our legs. You have an unusual mean streak, so I have my doubts. but whatever, I don't care what you think or who you support, actually.

[OPERATIONMINDCRIME]

64. Yes Whisp. Everything's A Conspiracy.

God you're silly.

:rofl:

[onenote]

68. a mean streak? Not from what I've seen

From what I've observed, OMC doesn't have a mean streak. He has a lack of patience with posts (and posters) that don't live in the real world, but from where I sit, DU could use more of that!

If OMC tilts to Obama (something I did a few weeks ago), great. But if he sticks with Hillary, it won't change the fact that I respect his opinions and his post here a great deal.

[blm]

61. I admit, I heard ALOT of Kerry's speeches in last night's speech but Obama's TWIST

of his own style certainly works for him in ways that even us policy wonks can appreciate.

And I say that as one who could listen to Gore or Kerry talk policy for hours.

[Indenturedebtor]

62. Takes guts to say you're on the line sometimes

I felt much the same when I was supporting Edwards. The more I see Obama go on the more excited I get though. This could really be leading to a new way of looking at politics and patriotism for ALOT of people in this country. I hope so anyways.

The only reason that the corporate oligarchy has been able to take over is that people haven't been looking at things in the right way. If we can get the public involved and AWAKE again we have a chance at pulling ourselves back from the brink. That is my HOPE!!!!

Gobama :bounce:

[terrya]

63. This is a good post.

I can understand your thinking.

[butterfly77]

65. I know I have begun to look at it that way also but...

I have seen his speeches and they don't really thrill me but, I have opened up a little to him being the candidate. I just want to see him tested..

[FogerRox]

66. I recently searched You tube for RFK videos

If you know what I mean...... RFK was accused of lack of substance too.

[Miss Chybil]

67. I have to agree with you, 100%. nt