The Observer, February 23, 2007
Volume XXXIX, Issue 18
Political Connection: Keep an open mind when learning about presidential candidates
There seems to be a change coming to American politics, or at least a bit of fresh air. As the National Democratic Party begins its primaries for the 2008 elections, the two candidates making the biggest stir would be historical firsts. If elected, Hillary Rodham Clinton would be the first female president and Barack Obama would be the first African-American president.
Although either candidate would break the tradition of the President being a white male, what we should really focus on is who has the better policy and background. Clinton has been in the public eye for a long time, from being the wife of the governor in Arkansas to First Lady and now as a Senator of New York. She is comfortable and well-positioned politically to make an attempt for the Presidential nomination.
Obama, on the other hand, has had a much shorter political career. A 1991 Harvard Law School graduate, he taught constitutional law at the University of Chicago before serving eight years in the Illinois Senate and then being elected to the United States Senate in 2004.
However, Obama's limited time in politics does not make him any less of a candidate. He may be relatively new, but that could work in his favor. As an intelligent, well-educated man, he might be able to bring new ideas to the Executive branch.
Although both senators have impressive resumes and strong followings, a lot can change between now and November 2008. The sudden surge of support might not carry Obama all the way through and Clinton might not be able to find a larger base over the next year through the primaries. As the primaries continue, the race, religion, or sex of the candidate should not play a role in the candidate you support.
Every candidate that is running for the presidential nomination in either party has respectable qualities that have led him or her to pursue one of the most powerful positions in the world. As citizens and voters, it is our duty to hear what each candidate supports and become familiar with their platform.
There are many ways to get information on candidates; many have websites, blogs, and even podcasts. To take it a step further, you can even attend a rally and hear them speak in person.
This Monday, Feb. 26, Obama is scheduled to speak at Cuyahoga Community College East. He is one of the undoubtedly many candidates who will begin campaigning in Northeastern Ohio for the 2008 presidential election. Tickets to the rally are free, and you can contact the Case Democrats to get signed up or to volunteer to help at the rally.
Davis is a first-year student and has yet to decide on a major. She is a member of the Spartan Tappers and the Case Camerata Orchestra and enjoys writing, reading, watching movies, and good debates.
