Straight talking about issues has always been more attractive to me than oratorical inspiration. I prefer the latter in church and the former in government.

Straight-talking is Obama's biggest asset. Senator McCain has flip-flopped and stretched the truth on so many occasions, as has Hillary unfortunately, that we Democrats dispute Obama's sincerity at our peril.

He has campaigned superbly and well under circumstances that would be overwhelming to almost anybody else. He has none-the-less remained unflappable and answers questions intelligently, calmly, clearly and with good
will.

As for the argument that we need experience. I have heard that many times from Hillary's supporters, but fail to see the logic behind it. If it is experience we are looking for, McCain's our man. Not.

To imply experience to Senator Clinton seems odd to me. She has four years of elected experience and has been "for" many good causes, but actually legislated none of them. She allows people to think that she did. She had 8 years of "being there' if you will, but her participation is highly disputed. The dignitaries she met are almost universally dead, retired, or deposed. That is the truth and where's the advantage?

Obama has the advantage of viewing history through the lens of a degree in International Relations. He had an anthropologist mother who who provided 'quality time' experiences in other cultures. He has over a decade of elected experience. I believe the right kind of experience is what counts...especially the kind that does not move too quickly to nuclear "solutions."

I agree with Jean!

I had to continue reading your post because I can't believe someone thinks Barack is comparable to Bush!! Hillary's ads, fearmongering language, gas tax ploy...all remind me of Bush...so much so it frightens me to think she might have a chance at the nomination. People are starting to point it out (finally!!). Barack said it on Meet the Press. Jon Stewart talked about it on last night's Daily Show. I want the democratic party to remain strong but we need to open our eyes and point out the obvious!

Barack is attempting to speak straight...except when he keeps getting sidetracked by flag pin questions, how-connected-are-you-to-your-pastor-and-when-will-you-disown-him questions, suggestions that he is an underground Muslim, and so much more that takes him away from talking about the issues that are truly related to being a president. Let's challenge him...and allow him to talk to us about the economy, immigration, the war, and let's see what he has to say. Can we do that???