Posted by Nadezda on September 6, 2008, at 11:40:53
In reply to Re: abortion + politics, posted by caraher on September 5, 2008, at 21:56:21
Yes, but Caraher--, they're on the verge of having someone retire, though. Then a host of issues with be up for grabs.
On Obama: I've always felt that he was a rather cool, somewhat ruthless guy with a soft appearance. I'm not sure he's one to feel loyalty or allegiances to anything but his own judgments and beliefs. And while I believe he listens to advisors, I think he surrounds himself with a lot of people who have a certain unconscious sense of difference and superiority to people-- I mean, the charge of elitism is pretty true actually. It's always bothered me a lot-- I prefer more salt of the earth types than those who feel they're a bit too good to stoop to the fray--and who think it's self-evident that they're better.
For example, this "Palin's delivery was good" line, or the constant praise of McCain during the convention. I just think it was unnecessary and seemed phony. Plus to be honest, it wasn't really deserved. To me, it was more a result of the Dems arrogance-- we're so much better that we can afford to acknowledge the strengths of our opponents, and still win. A fine policy in private-- but not at a convention when the outcome is far from decided in your favor. A piquant choice-- but not a practical one. And if you do think there's too much at stake-- maybe not worth indulging in. Also I disliked the choice of venue for the acceptance speech-- much too grand and emperor-like-- detaching raising himself up too far above everyone.
What I've come to respect about him, though, is that he has a commitment to his beliefs--even under pressure== and I think he's actually quite honest. That's a rare thing in politics in the US these days.
I also like his thoughtfulness and slowness to act-- he doesn't get rushed to judgment, or overborne by the emotion of the moment-- but rather waits and lets things settle out. Also a rare trait-- he has a cool head, and his arrogance is a type that may, in fact, be necessary to a good leader. Not the macho, I have to prove myself type, but the "we're better than this" type-- which leads you to take the wiser, more considered path, to keep your own counsel, and not to be flustered easily by seemingly rushing events. Events rush much less than we imagine, actually. It's hard to know this, though, in the moment. I think he does.
I'm worried that he may not push back enough, and that he may be too worried about his self-respect to do what it takes.
What do you make of him, from your part of the world?
Nadezda
poster:Nadezda
thread:850202
URL: http://www.dr-bob.org/babble/poli/20080728/msgs/850636.html