Obama's Moment-Presidential Hopeful Steps Sure-Footedly Onto the World Stage

[babylonsister]

http://washingtonindependent.com/view/obamas-moment

Obama's Moment
Presidential Hopeful Steps Sure-Footedly Onto the World Stage
Sen. Barack Obama in Berlin, Germany (campaign photo)

By Sridhar Pappu 07/25/2008


snip//


Indeed one couldn't help but chuckle when McCain's campaign spokesman Tucker Bounds, following Obama's speech, issued a statement: "While Barack Obama took a premature victory lap today in the heart of Berlin, proclaiming himself a 'citizen of the world,' John McCain continued to make his case to the American citizens who will decide this election. Barack Obama offered eloquent praise for this country, but the contrast is clear. John McCain has dedicated his life to serving, improving and protecting America. Barack Obama spent an afternoon talking about it."

However, Obama needed to make this speech in this place. He needed to tell the world not only his plans for a new American foreign policy but speak to how he would address problems across the globe, in places where international action is still required, like Afghanistan. He needed to show his understanding of the complexities of the fight against terrorism and that he grasped the regional threat of Iran.

He needed to do so not only for the sake of his campaign, but for the creation of a fundamental understanding of the policy differences between the two candidates in perhaps the most important election in living memory.

"People of Berlin – and people of the world – the scale of our challenge is great," Obama concluded. "The road ahead will be long. But I come before you to say that we are heirs to a struggle for freedom. We are a people of improbable hope. With an eye toward the future, with resolve in our hearts, let us remember this history, and answer our destiny, and remake the world once again."

Soon Obama will be back campaigning in the United States. He will again engage in verbal jabs with McCain over education and energy and taxes and the war in Iraq. But should he win on Nov. 4, this much will be clear: July 24 was a pivotal moment in the course of his campaign. It was more than just a speech. It was his moment.

[bunnies]

1. Why is everyone wigging out over "citizen of the world" ?

Doesnt McCrazyass realize that Reagan used that phrase as well?

[babylonsister]

2. It's even more comical when you read this:

http://www.democraticunderground.com/discuss/duboard.php?az=view_all&address=389x3672935

[bunnies]

4. lol. Reagan AND Kennedy. Priceless. nt

[RaleighNCDUer]

3. Of course, Reagan's speechwriters stole it from Kennedy's speechwriters.

Maybe that's what he's objecting to - you get to a certain age and the distant past is much more easily recalled than the more recent past.

I should know - it's starting with me.

[bunnies]

5. So maybe he remembers Kennedy but not Reagan?

There's some sweet irony in that.

Oh and don't feel bad. At only 35 I forget just about everything I try to make a point to remember. Stuff I dont care about... that stays in the brain no problem. Important stuff... often gone immediately. Names? Forget it. :hi: