I can share my rationale. I was ‘R’ throughout the 90’s but strongly disapprove of current Republican direction/leadership, “Terri Schiavo Syndrome”. As many in my generation (X) are, I’m a fiscal and foreign policy conservative, progressive or libertarian on social issues (eg. I could care less about gay marriage). Three main reasons I support Obama:
1. Pragmatic foreign policy
2. Sensible energy policy
3. Throw the partisan bums out
Check out the “Obama is Conservative” thread for a reasonable discussion of foreign policy issues. Obama is advocating a return to pragmatism and conservatism. Bush/McCain and the new-age Republicans are ideological and interventionist. Easy to see which candidate aligns with my values.
With energy policy, BO is for R&D into USA energy infrastructure, diversification of sources, emphasis on renewables, conservation and greening our economy. JM is out there blathering about a gas-tax holiday (which is unbelievably retarded, BTW). I can’t understate how important energy policy is becoming, BTW. It’s the issue of our time.
Finally, out of the remaining candidates, BO offers what I believe is our best chance at turning the page on Clinton/Bush partisanship. We’ve had almost 2 decades now of boomer leftie war protesters going at it with moral-majority establishment types, reliving the 60’s and Vietnam, dividing the country into Reds and Blues for cynical political gain.
Obama is the best chance to turn the page. I don’t think I’m being naive here. The rap in the ‘MSM’ is BO’s a radical liberal. If you study his positions, many of them are quite centrist and moderate. Google “Susan Eisenhower and Barack Obama”, give it a read and let me know what you think.
These are the issues that factor into my analysis, and the rationale behind my support for Obama. You can make up your own mind. Enjoy the process.