The next President of the United States of America
Election night result viewing party at the Old Bar in Leeds Student Union. Tough to get a good shot of the crowd, but it was quite busy.
From the early days of the movement: an Obama rally during the primaries
After 21 months of craziness and a long, suspenseful night, we have our result. Obama's victory means so much to me, to so many Americans, and to the rest of the world. McCain's concession speech was excellent--very gracious and sincere, and I appreciated his call for unity. That's the only way out of our current problems, really. Likewise, I was glad Obama acknowledged those who didn't vote for him, saying "And to those Americans whose support I have yet to earn - I may not have won your vote, but I hear your voices, I need your help, and I will be your President too." That was one of the best things I've ever heard from any politician. It's humble--he knows he has to earn your support. It's comforting--he listens to his opposition. It's encouraging and welcoming--he asks for their help. I've never heard anybody say they'll be President of the segment of the nation who didn't vote for them. Usually, a victory speech is simple--we won, thanks to my supporters & friends & family, and let's get to work. This one had so much depth, so much meaning and a great level of understanding we never see in politicians.
I'm thinking of doing my dissertation on charismatic rhetoric now...
1 comment:
I was so thrilled, and today I was reading over the Dream Speech again and was more moved. You should read over it today. It means even more now.
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