Obama Paul 2008

There has been a lot of talk recently about a "Unity Ticket" in the upcoming presidential race, unity meaning a joint Republican/Democrat ticket. I love the idea, as my views are quite across the spectrum between the two parties, lodged firmly in Socialism for some things while aimed at Libertarian non-intervention for others. I have the feeling that most people share this cachophany of mind that is not satisfied by the current political division.

Then I read Barack Obama's latest speech (youTube). Normally I am extremely wary of mainstream candidates, primarily due to the pandering that they tend to display like an ugly sweater on Christmas. Obama's speech, however, has a much different focus; one that addresses the sentiments above. Obama repeatedly refers to the recent American penchant for divisive and partisan politics, and appeals for a more unified approach. At one point he calls Washington's partisanship a "food fight". I like this guy.

I've been simmering on Barack ever since he started campaigning, and after this most recent speech, I am almost certain that I would vote for him next year, perhaps even over Ron Paul. I know for a fact that if he were to gain the Democratic nomination and choose a republican running mate, I would vote for him in a second. If he chose Ron Paul as his running mate, I would be as close to political heaven as I am likely to get.

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