Barak H. Obama: TO BE OUR GREATEST PRESIDENT EVER

Rico:

When I compare Obama to Jefferson and Lincoln I’m talking about idealogical and philosophical similarities rather than a physical comparison that the political right focuses on and the media dumb-down for the lowest common denominator. Those comparisons end up illustrating greater differences, but who cares if Lincoln was born poor and self-taught versus Obama being born to college-educated well-off people and went to private college? The important things are their foundation principles, beliefs, and capacities. You can start by reading Obama’s book to get an idea of where he is coming from. My comments below are how I see Obama. Many will paint a different picture.

Thomas Jefferson set a towering precedent in American history as a scholar in the White House, one whose life and achievements make a strong case for having another one. Obama's scholarly background and approach (elitist for the dumbed-down definition) has provided him with a far greater depth and breadth of vision than any of the other candidates. Obama also has Jefferson's gift of language and eloquence and possesses an intimate understanding of the Constitution and the reasons for its every line. He shares Jefferson’s cool demeanor and laid-back elegance. Obama displays a visionary perspective on global questions such as the environment and the future direction of American foreign policy unlike McCain who represents more of the failed policies of Bush as well as those of administrations over the last 50 years (both sides of the aisle). Most importantly, Obama shares Jefferson’s vision of a republic where everyone is equal and free to pursue life, liberty and happiness. Obama promotes citizen involvement at the individual level which is what sustains a republic (not to mention his campaign) and that's what Jefferson and the rest of the founders wanted for us.

There is no shortage of Obama-Lincoln comparisons to be found on the Internet.
Obama, if elected, would be taking office with the economy in shambles, at war, and politically and socially divided. The president who preceded Lincoln, James Buchanan, was responsible for the disintegration of the United States due to his inaction, and was regarded as the worst president ever up until that time. Now we have George Bush, who in the estimation of many has seized the torch of "worstitude" from Buchanan. The United States as we know it has disintegrated on his watch. This is very similar to the circumstances leading up to Lincoln’s election. Many have said that Obama is inexperienced, but Lincoln was also a political novice. This was an advantage for Lincoln in restoration of the republic and I see this as a huge advantage in these times as well. Obama, like Lincoln, is much more able through his political un-encumbrance to steer this country back on track than others who have a vested interest in maintaining course through “politics-as-usual”.

To borrow a statement by a new Hampshire resident by the name of Ken Burns: "While others find themselves mired in their past actions, he is presenting a vision for the future that is not only possible but essential to our survival as a nation," "We need someone who is authentic, someone who will inevitably make mistakes just like every president going back to George Washington, but someone who is themselves and authentic....Someone who is able to dream, someone who is able to suggest a future that isn't so completely tied to the past."