Is America really going to do this?

Robbit

Yet another brillaint post, Melanie.

Amidst all the drivel, trivia, starry-eyed nappy-wetting and brouhaha of the campaign you have spelt out the real bottom line... once again.

The good folks of the USA have only a few days to come to their collective senses.

N

Mel,
You make good points as always, and for this election (i'm american) i'm resting for the most part on information about the candidates from you because in the States everything is biased and it's impossible to know the truth. Anyway, you make some good points why one shouldn't vote for Obama, but let me ask you this: Given McCain's age and unspecified medical problems if he were to be president and die in office, do you really think that Palin could take over and be the president and protect the US as McCain would have?

Bill

Thanks for the news about Samantha Power. I hadn't realised how extreme she is. Obama is also a big buddy of Rashid Khalidi, the Edward Said Professor of Middle Eastern Studies at Columbia and a big terrorist propagandist.

Joseph

Melanie, I sincerely commended your inner thoughts on the candidates.
I am a black man with such a great concern about OBAMA presidency. I know America has not done well in many areas in the last few years, however, America is still better than many nations of the world including Europe. Security and sovereignity of a nation is the greatest freedom to economic and other issues. Listening to OBAMA and the way the rest of the world and HolyWood are falling in love with him is telling me that Obama will appease to all group. Once you decide you wanted to be like by everybody, you will sacrifice your moral and traditional principles to achieve that. How I wish people can see deeper into the heart of OBAMA and his agendas of appeasement that may bring America on her knees which will be to the joy of the Liberal and Socialist world.

Jane

To the useful idiots 'everything happens for a reason' and so, it then follows, the jihad is justified. It must have a good reason.

Western reason - defending ourselves from the jihad - has no validity at all, though.

Only the reason justifying the jhad is not the myriad of excuses that change from country to country and from time to time.

For us, it's Iraq. For Delhi, it's Kashmir. For Israel, well, it's just Israel and so on. 'Western decadence', 'Western oppression' - the excuses are neverending, each one more brazen than the last.

The one reason that is consistent to the jihad everywhere is the one reason the useful idiots can't handle: the word of a deity.

And what did the deity say?

"Make war on the unbelievers and the hypocrites and deal rigorously with them. Hell shall be their home: an evil fate."

What earthly reasoning can there be with that?

It certainly wasn't written in response to 'Western oppression' as the Guardianistas would have us all believe.

Perhaps the American electorate thinks the Obamessiah will be able to do a deal with Allah?

john doe

Excellent post Melanie and a timely and necessary summation of the choice America has. This strikes me as the most critical election in US history.

Worried, Windsor

"Joseph"

Brilliant. Best yet. Keep up the good work!

hippiepooter

If Obama becomes President the US will have nothing to fear from Islamist terrorist attack. They will see him as a natural ally.

I think Obama will bring about a 'false peace' that will last a season, then the power that the United States has exercised for good in the world for two centuries will be inverted to engulf the world in darkness beyond our worst nightmares.

Verity

N "Given McCain's age and unspecified medical problems" ... Unspecified? Hello? His complete medical records were submitted. He had two skin cancers removed. The surgeon predicted they would not return. They haven't. What other "medical problems" are you referring to? Obama just submitted a doctor's note, instead of his records, which is a bit of a worry.

You continue, "... if he were to be president and die in office, do you really think that Palin could take over and be the president and protect the US as McCain would have?"

Your question was addressed to Melanie, but I'll go ahead and barge in, as this is a blog and all. A resounding, Yes! Indeed, I believe she will be stronger protecting America's values than McCain. Obviously, no one can predict what another human being will do, but I think that someone who can face a moose and shoot it will not shrink from firepower if it is required.

(Palin and Jindal in 2012.)

hadrian

The threat from Islamic fanaticism cannot be overstressed, though I suspect the time'll come when our freedom to express it will be carelessly and ignorantly bartered away under presseure from Islamic organisations in unholy alliance with the leftist PC brigade. The word's already coined- 'Islamophobia'- just waiting to be fully rolled out. Notice there is not a similar coinage for criticism of Christianity or any other religion. The prejudicial remarks about Palin really do depress one. The woman's values might be 'old American' but that hardly disqualifies her for high office. Her relative inexperience is hardly new in presidential candidates, either, however disdainful the chattering classes may be.
You are right, Melanie, to raise all these cautionary observations about Obama; at best there's terrible muddle-headedness there and I do not think the 'big picture' of his ideological mind-set at all reassures us.

Dave

"That’s why [Obama] believes in ‘soft power’ — diplomacy, aid, rectifying ‘grievances’"
To be honest these don't seem to be bad beliefs to have.
What are the alternives? War, suffering, letting wounds fester?

Sybilll

Excellent article Ms Phillips. Very factual, without a hint of malice. I will gladly share this with other like-minded Americans, and give you much due credit.

Hysteria

N - you pose a reasonable question (reiterated in many other media outlets etc) - and I think there is a very good answer which interestingly the California Governor mentioned in his interview on CNN a couple of days ago - which is...

The US President does not act alone - they have an army (literally and figuratively !) of people to provide advice, information, challenge opinions and help form policy. This group would have been put together by McCain and if the worst should happen , would be there to provide a consistent message and advice base for the VP.

By sharp contrast and as pointed out by Melanie, the group closest to an Obama Oval Office will be of a similar persuasion to him.

So I think the concerns about Palin as POTUS are over-played (and we know why!) whereas the concerns about an Obama presidency are under-estimated.

Alex Bensky

Yes, Melanie, I regret to say that chances are that we indeed will do this. You make all sorts of good points about Obama's background, beliefs, and character. The problem is that virtually none of this is getting into the mainstream media, which after this year really cannot possibly claim to any sense of fairness or objectivity in political coverage.

As just one example among many, the New York Times had a major two page article on Sarah Palin a few weeks back. She has an eighty percent approval rating but they couldn't find anyone at all who was willing to be quoted as supporting her.

Biden made half a dozen major gaffes in the debate, such as reciting a history of Lebanon that had no relationship at all to the facts and mixing up the West Bank and Gaza. The mainstream media the next day had nothing--nothing--about it. However, coverage of the debate pretty much echoed the trope that Palin is a perky ignoramus.

I could go on and on. Despite the economic woes McCain would still have a very good chance if he were getting anything like fair coverage.

Don't tell anyone I told you this. Criticism of Obama comes only from racism; one of our local (Detroit) columnists assured her readers recently that there was no reason to vote against Obama except racism.

However, Obama's election will please your fellow Brits like Harold Pinter, so that's something.

Hayward Maberley

At the core of the problem is the combination of this American, US that is, Exceptionalism with Manifest Destiny. Since the end of WWII and under most Administrations, whether Democrat or Republican, the USA has invaded or had its SOB proxies/surrogates invade or take power in many countries. Actions taken supposedly in the name of "freedom, democracy and the free market” It has also blocked the bringing of freedom and democracy to others.
A nadir has been reached with the Iraq Fiasco and the Afghanistan Imbroglio. This brought about by a Republican President with a chiliastic world view aided by the Neocon Manicheanism.
In order to carry out this Manifest Destiny it has skewed its economy towards the Military Industrial Financial Nexus. The Wall Street Debacle one of the outcomes of this has now spread into the "real economy" and "real people" all around the world are suffering from the machinations of Predator Capitalism USA style.

George Steiner

Yes indeed Obambi will remake the world. And like all remakes, it will not be as good as the original.

Still conservatives can only blame themselves. They are disorganized whiners. While the left has put shoulder to the wheel and may well succeed where the Soviets have failed.

But this time the left will have little time to enjoy themselves. They will be Islamised faster than you can say Allahu akbar.

alcibiades

Barney Frank, who helped bring the credit by crisis by his refusal to do anything to regulate Fannie and Freddy, is already making a stink about cutting defense spending by 25%.

The Truth Hurts

"This is the fear that, if he (Obama) wins.....the enemies of America and the free world will seize their opportunity to destroy the west."
Melanie Phillips
24 October 2008

I believe, Melanie, that these hasty words will come back to haunt you.

Verity

"That’s why [Obama] believes in ‘soft power’ — diplomacy, aid, rectifying ‘grievances’"
To be honest these don't seem to be bad beliefs to have.
What are the alternives? War, suffering, letting wounds fester?"

Awwwwwwwwwww! Are you 15 yet?

Lynda Stack

Brilliant post.

I pray every day and I have praying that this man not be elected. I do have a dread about him

History has turned a corner. The West is disarmed all over the place and the election of Obama is a manifestation of that.

I am not sure how the financial crash will effect their ultimate loyalty to him or whether they will blindly follow him while he 'turns up the heat'.

Reg

Is America really going to do this?

No. For a myriad of reasons, not least the Hilary Dems.

McCain's choosing of Sarah Palin as running-mate may well turn out to be the one act that did more than any other to scupper the Obama machine.

Flora Steele

What is this about McCain being 'erratic'? I think it's a subliminal attack, founded on his awkward physical movements -- which are the result of damage he suffered as a POW. A very dishonorable attempt to turn war wounds into a liabilitly.

It is Obama whose policy statements are in fact erratic. In summer 2007 he was trying to sound hawkish -- talking about invading Pakistan!

Hugh

N: I live in Canada and have been paying particularly keen attention to this Presidt'l campaign...have you? Have you listened to Biden's gasbaggery - worse, his solipsim? Are you judging HIS ability to backstop the young , and clearly shape-shifting "senior" partner who has exhibted lots of charisma on the stump and zero "values" nor "morals" in the classic sense? You must appreciate junk pop culture and shallow YOB mores- how soft and extantBritish- you sir/madam are the reason England is on bended knee. I suppose you disavow Wilberforce and suffer "guilt" and pine for expiation..ah well, you're obviously just one of a crowd-how reassuring.

Hayward Maberley

Joseph,
"...America (in truth the USA ) has not done well in many areas in the last few years..."
That is somewhat of an understatement. And now just look at the Wall Street Debacle!
There are many nations in Europe Joseph,it is not just one nation.
"....sacrifice your moral and traditional principles to achieve that..."
The current Republican Administration have already flushed away a lot of what made the the USA great. Led by someone who will be regarded as the worst President in the history of the USA for a long time.

Dr John of Porpoise Spit

Melanie, I am very concerned about Israel, and now is not a good time to be disolving Parliament to hold an election. If I were them I'd launch an attack on Iran's nucleur facilities right now, or maybe the day after the US election if Obama wins. Maybe this is what is exercising Joe Biden's mind. Obama is going to make Blair's Britain look like walk in the park.

Conservative Cabbie

Verity

I'm not sure about Palin & Jindal in 2012. They'll be going up against each other in the primaries and should Palin win the primary process, what value add does Jindal give the ticket. He's from LA so doesn't really help securing a state, he wouldn't add the "foreign policy experience" that Biden was laughably supposed too and they appeal to exactly the same conservative base. I suppose the only thing he might add would be the intellectual bit (he's Ivy league and a Rhodes scholar).

Don't get me wrong, from what I know of him I like him, just not sure what he would bring to the ticket. There are potentially three strong conservatives getting ready for 2012 in Palin, Jindal and John Thune (Senator from South Dakota). I think Romney and Huckabee don't stand a chance; Romney won't have the evangelical support of Palin, Jindal etc and Huckabee will lose a lot of his evangelical base because of the aforementioned three. Finally, the person I see as a potentially good VP is Fred Thompson, a real rabble-rouser. Palin and Thompson on the campaign trail would be a really interesting sight.

So, if push comes to shove, who is it for you, Palin or Jindal?

Conservative Cabbie

@Hysteria

"whereas the concerns about an Obama presidency are under-estimated."

Never a truer word spoken. We're starting to get a feel for the legilative agenda of an Obama presidency and a Democratic congress.

1. Card Check - in which "union bosses want Congress to pass a law that actually robs workers of their democratic right to a private ballot".

2. Barney Frank has revealed the Dems agenda.
25% reduction in defence spending.
He says they will "have to raise taxes eventually".
He says there is a big spending stimulus package in the offing, probably November, more likely January.

So we have defence cuts, tax increases and government spending. Allied to Obama's desire to not weaponise space and reduce the nuclear arsenal, it's like the Labour Party of the 1980's. (Of course Joe Biden does admire Neil Kinnock so much).

david skinner

There seems to be doubt as to whom said the following:
“A democracy cannot exist as a permanent form of government. It can only exist until the voters discover that they can vote themselves money from the public treasure. From that moment on the majority always votes for the candidates promising the most money from the public treasury, with the result that a democracy always collapses over loose fiscal policy followed by a dictatorship”.

"The average age of the world's great civilizations has been two hundred years. These nations have progressed through the following sequence:
1. from bondage to spiritual faith
2. from spiritual faith to great courage.
3. from courage to liberty.
4. from liberty to abundance.
5. from abundance to selfishness.
6. from selfishness to complacency.
7. from complacency to apathy.
8. from apathy to dependency
9. from dependency back to bondage."

In Britain and America the entire news is dominated by the economy and how it will effect our material peace and prosperity. Whilst at the same time unspeakable evil is being perpetrated on a daily basis and yet it hardly hit’s the news. In Britain, babies are being murdered in their mothers’ wombs at the rate of 200, 000 a year, our youth are being transformed into psychopathic killers, sexually transmitted diseases, mental illness and addictions of every kind abound and the government is literally hell bent on destroying the very atom of society, the family.

Where are we on the scale? Probably at number 8

solemnman

I can't think of another governor who has been given an 80% approval rating by their constituents,who has acheived anything comparable to what she has acheived ,in such a short time, in any other state.She has done what we would all hope for but hardly ever get from an elected official but-this is all academic now.Americans,like bemused lemmings,are headed for the cliff.

Mladen Andrijasevic

McCain for President. A very short endorsement:

Iran WANTS to start a nuclear war with Israel and destroy the Jews in order to trigger the return of the Mahdi, the Hidden Twelfth Imam, the four-year old who went into hiding in a well 1140 years ago.

Barack Obama wants to talk to Iran.

All other arguments are insignificant.

Genesis of Shi'a Islam
http://www.amilimani.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=116&Itemid=2

Emmet

Mr Maberley, America might have made a few mistakes, but don't dare try to compare them with the organised tyranny of most of the members of the UN club. Try living in one of these thus states, not as a privileged westerner, but as a native, or, better still, as a poor domestic worker say from India or the Phillipines. Please spare us from your moral equivalence crap.

Worried, Windsor

Verity,

Excellent comment about moose attacks. Definitely a case of shoot first.

These warnings from the Alaska wildlife people are worth noting, for those with children:

"Are kids safe around moose?

Yes, usually. The problem is, both kids and moose are somewhat unpredictable. Young kids will take their cues from adults; if you take chances, they might also. Keep kids away from moose. If a moose is hanging out at a school bus stop, ask the driver if he or she can pick up the kids one or two blocks away along the route. Establish a parent patrol to wait at the bus stop with the kids (more to control the kids than the moose). If your kids walk to school, show them another route to walk if they see a moose on their normal route. If you know a moose is in your neighborhood, kids should probably avoid walking on long paths through the woods where it is dark and there is no easy escape if a moose runs down the path."

But, for the final word on the matter you should check out this video (by Woody Allen): http://uk.youtube.com/watch?v=xmnLRVWgnXU

Have a nice weekend.

Tam

Says Hayward Maberley: “At the core of the problem is the combination of this American, US that is, Exceptionalism with Manifest Destiny.”

No, Hayward.

At the core of the problem is a religious conflict that has been going on for centuries. At various stages it has been defeated (the Gates of Vienna) or put into the deep freeze (the diluted version of Islam that came with colonialism).

In the 20th century, though, through the stalking horse of Marxism which saw the West tie itself in knots and through the wealth of the petrodollar it seeks to reassert itself again.

You claim, Hayward Maberley, that the US “has also blocked the bringing of freedom and democracy to others”.

Really?

Who else has been trying to spread democracy in the last century? Russia? China? The mullahs?

No. America is the only major power that has tried to spread democracy. Yes, it is often blunt, but I’m afraid that’s the way the world works sometimes.

I keep looking for the perfect world in the Middle East and Russia and I can’t find it. All I see is spiteful, corrupt leaders with ordinary people who have a boot over their windpipe. No thanks. Not for me.

If the American Dream must die with an Obama presidency, then so be it. A new generation might actually then realise what it was their forefathers were protecting themselves against.

Whether the dream will ever live again, I have my doubts. But at least the American public might actually wake up to the values that, for a time at least, gave them the freest, most prosperous nation on earth.

Formerly I’d have said God bless America, I hope that won’t soon be God rest America.

Dee Ranged

Melanie.

This is tremendous.

Stay on this issue for another two weeks in the hope more and more Americans will wake up.

It is clear that NObama's credentials are wholly suspect and that he intends to downsize American influence in the world.

The whole world will be scorched by radical Islamic hate if he becomes the next president.

Barackobama

Patriotic Americans and friends of the US should be delighted by developments since the summer. I shall list them:
1 Decisive action by a Republican president with the support of congress to prevent the American economy going into deep economic depression.
2 The fall in inflated share prices that will force American households to consume less and save more for the future.
3 The amazing recovery in the dollar against every other currency (with the exception of the yen). This will make America richer and stronger.
4 The sharp reduction in killings and violence in Iraq which will allow America to scale back its operations in the country with dignity.
5 The fall in oil prices which will make Russia, Iran and Venezuela weaker.
All told, America today is in a far stronger position globally than it was in January.
The least important change is a new personality in the White House. We have known for four years that this was going to happen though we had no idea who the newcomer would be. This uncertainty is about to end, which is in itself an excellent thing for the US and its loyal allies.
And isn't it possible that a president that the world loves might be a good thing for American interests and all those who have stood by America in the past five years?
America recovering economically in a world where its principal rivals have been weakened and under new leadership is something to make every American patriot look to the future with optimism and joy.

john doe

I think the burning issue of our times is the confusion between 'affect' and 'effect'. It's a virulent bug infiltrating all walks of life and is threatening our culture from the inside.
Just for the record folks: 'to affect'(a verb) means 'to have an effect (a noun) on something or someone' One can also say, however, 'to effect(a verb) a change'.
So here's a quick exercise: Identify the following mistake:
'it will effect our way of life'

I'm sure Melanie will appreciate that this is all an outcome of our dumbed-down education system.

Ah, that feels better!

Norm

The comparisons with 1997 and NuLabour are obvious. Obama will win because Americans are fed up with Bush so all he has to do is look Presidential and say as little as possible. Just like Tony Blair in 97. I have Republican American friends who say they will vote Democrat for the first time because of Bush not because they want Obama.

Dave

@Verity. oooh, zzzzzing!
Here's another example of the problem with Palin.
http://scienceblogs.com/pharyngula/2008/10/sarah_palin_ignorant_and_antis.php
Ignorance? Or more "Scientism"?

Verity

David Skinner - Agreed. America isn't as far down the path, but an Obama presidency would catapult them to level pegging with us.

Conservative Cabbie - What Bobby Jindal has done, in two short years, is take an utterly corrupt state - a state with such a depth of corruption, no had any concept of what competent, neutral governance was, and turned it around in two short years.

Louisiana had the worst corruption in the United States, with a long string of corrupt governors - from way before Huey Long, although he was certainly the poster boy for corrupt governance everywhere. All you have to do is hark back to Hurricane Katrina - which, as I always point out, DID NOT TOUCH DOWN IN LOUISIANA, but they got the very heavy rains that accompany the fringes of a hurricane - and watch Governor Blanco, from a corrupt old Louisiana family, refuse to allow the president to send federal troops into the state to help with the burst levies - and subsequent heavy flooding - of Lake Ponchartrain (those levies built by Blanco's corrupt contractor friends with the cheapest of materials - to hold back a lake that is so vast it is basically an inland sea) and watch Mayor Nagins, holed up on the top floor of the Sheraton Hotel while his city was flooded and people's homes were washed away - and this was all considered normal in NO - to get a feeling for the level of corruption endemic there.

In two years, Bobby Jindal has sluiced out the state government. Nagins is still clinging on as do-nothing mayor of NO - a city he considers too dangerous for his own family, who he shipped to Dallas when Katrina was threatening the city and has kept there ever since. But there will be an election soon, and the people of Louisiana are beginning to appreciate that governments can actually be run to serve the citizens.

Companies are moving facilities, and even headquarters to a Louisiana governed by Jindal, who is giving tax breaks for new businesses to move in.

He would bring strong managerial experience with him, a brilliant, trained mind and an understanding that public servants are there to serve the public.

He is also utterly charming and funny and would be a wonderful ambassador for America. I am his biggest fan and I would like to see him President of the United States one day.

I would have mentioned, as you did, that he is a Rhodes scholar, but, uh, so was Bill Clinton.

Verity

David Skinner - Agreed. America isn't as far down the path, but an Obama presidency would catapult them to level pegging with us.

Conservative Cabbie - What Bobby Jindal has done, in two short years, is take an utterly corrupt state - a state with such a depth of corruption, no had any concept of what competent, neutral governance was, and turned it around in two short years.

Louisiana had the worst corruption in the United States, with a long string of corrupt governors - from way before Huey Long, although he was certainly the poster boy for corrupt governance everywhere. All you have to do is hark back to Hurricane Katrina - which, as I always point out, DID NOT TOUCH DOWN IN LOUISIANA, but they got the very heavy rains that accompany the fringes of a hurricane - and watch Governor Blanco, from a corrupt old Louisiana family, refuse to allow the president to send federal troops into the state to help with the burst levies - and subsequent heavy flooding - of Lake Ponchartrain (those levies built by Blanco's corrupt contractor friends with the cheapest of materials - to hold back a lake that is so vast it is basically an inland sea) and watch Mayor Nagins, holed up on the top floor of the Sheraton Hotel while his city was flooded and people's homes were washed away - and this was all considered normal in NO - to get a feeling for the level of corruption endemic there.

In two years, Bobby Jindal has sluiced out the state government. Nagins is still clinging on as do-nothing mayor of NO - a city he considers too dangerous for his own family, who he shipped to Dallas when Katrina was threatening the city and has kept there ever since. But there will be an election soon, and the people of Louisiana are beginning to appreciate that governments can actually be run to serve the citizens.

Companies are moving facilities, and even headquarters to a Louisiana governed by Jindal, who is giving tax breaks for new businesses to move in.

He would bring strong managerial experience with him, a brilliant, trained mind and an understanding that public servants are there to serve the public.

He is also utterly charming and funny and would be a wonderful ambassador for America. I am his biggest fan and I would like to see him President of the United States one day.

I would have mentioned, as you did, that he is a Rhodes scholar, but, uh, so was Bill Clinton.

Familiar Clown

Could Joe Biden's connections with credit card companies explain why Obama's campaign has been getting away with fraudulent credit card donations?

Normally, a purchase with a credit card on the internet requires that the name and address of the customer matches that of the cardholder, otherwise it isn't approved. But on the Obama campaign website, if you enter a false name and address, and after you enter your donation, card number and expirey date (it doesn't ask for the 3-digit code), you are taken straight to the next page with the message: "Your donation has been processed. Thank you for your generous gift."

This could not happen without the collusion of the credit card companies. They simply wouldn't allow any business to process hundreds of millions in credit card transactions where the name on the card doesn't match the purchaser's name. Therefore, with the system set up by the Obama camp, an individual could donate unlimited amounts of money with fake names and addresses. And Obama is a party to this fraud. This is truly scandalous.

L

Some of the views in this article are the most ridiculous I have ever read. I am a Black American woman. Not African American (that would mean my family came here willingly, we didn't, so I am not).

It amazes me how those on the outside looking in can comment on what is best for those inside. You obviously only get what you reported from commentaries written from others. If you actually lived here where 90% of us do, you wouldn't have written half of the garbage that you profess to be wisdom. And to have a cult following as well? These brainless people actually think this is a brilliant post!!

I have read articles from this site before and this is the first time I have been more upset than the previous reads.

Good day, Ma'am.

puppet

Obama is a puppet.
He is inarticulate except when giving a speech. Without a script he appears lost as he was with Joe the plumber. His visit to his grandmother is probably just a way of avoiding similar off-the-cuff questions after the Joe the plumber debacle. He changes his position/policies frequently & abruptly because he is not the one who is determining them. He was lacklustre in the debates because he could only be partly scripted. He appears to be two different people. The presidential articulate speaker with a powerful prescence when scripted and an inarticulate ordinary man of maybe average intelligence who has difficulty explaining or remembering his own policies when answering questions off-the-cuff.
Who writes his scripts? Who coaches his performances? Who is the puppet-master?

Craig Strachan

"I think that someone who can face a moose and shoot it will not shrink from firepower if it is required"

I'd be more impressed by Palin's courage if the moose was armed and shooting back.

Verity

Worried, Windsor - At one point, I used to go to Alaska on business for a couple of weeks at a time and I never saw a moose or a caribou at a bus stop or anywhere else. There is a stuffed 7 foot brown bear in the lobby of the Captain Cook Hotel though. He looks a lot like you.

Mary from Illinois, USA

The ONLY reason an Obama exists in this country is because for many many years the leftists as well as many of the black community "leaders" in this great land have convinced the majority of the blacks that they are victims of the white man. The white man is to be hated. The rich are to be hated. Of course the guilt ridden white liberals have bought into this as well. These victims are entitled to reparations because they have been held down by the "man". Socialists like Obama see the time is ripe for the kill of the greatest country in the history of the world. Make NO mistake the destruction of AMERICA IS HIS AGENDA! He will enslave those he purports to free. Sadly they cannot see through this plot. Obama and those before him have created a divide and set the stage for class warfare. If he is elected President (God help us all) not only will there be an economic depression but a spiritual one as well. Louis Farakhan called him the "messiah". I call him the anti-Christ. WAKE UP CITIZENRY OF AMEREICA!

Verity

Norm, I agree that there is a tremendous disaffection with Bush among Republicans and, although they most assuredly will not vote for Obama, they may stay home.

old white guy

just remember what the second amendment is for. even the supreme court can't take your gun. if they try it is your right to show them that they can't.

Frank P

Tam

Excellent post; I wouldn't be too hard on Hayward; he once had a bit of financial luck; it went to his head and enabled him to wander the world, particularly those parts South of Border which he calls 'the real America'. He's been able to buy lots of books and a pair of red-tinted spectacles; also a PC connected to the Internet enabling him to infitrate the non-leftist blogs and educate us in the aims of Utopian communism. The filter on his spectacles therefore prevents him from seeing the obvious in geopolitical matters. In fact at times he seems unable to see beyond the end his own nose and certainly focuses on all matters anti-Amerikkkan, Bushitler the dreaded and evil neoconmilitaryindustrialcomplex.He is a wag, but if you stick around you'll get used to his nonsense. Luckily while he is spending his time here - trying to convert us pro-Western counter-counter-revolutionaries who have realised that anti-Islamic-jihad enjoined (pro-tem; the enemy of my enemy is my temporary friend) with hard-core and crypto-Marxism is the main threat to world stability -he is not corrupting the credulous minds of the more youthful who spend their time on other blogs.

That's the great thing about Melanie's blog - it draws their fire and provides us with some amusement when the the likes of Howard keep coming back for more. He's from Down Under, too, be we don't hold that agin him, as there are a number of Australasians among the commentariat here who more than make up for Howard's quaint treatises with some good hard-nosed common sense - Oz style. God bless 'em! And God bless America, who, for better or worse we all rely. Unless of course we are look at the world through the same sort of spectacles as Howard. In which case Obama would be our man.

clue

Just as in Noah's day, they took no note until the end was suddenly upon them.

Jim from Pittsburgh

I would like to offer the small bit of reassurance to Melanie and other concerned Brits that those of us opposed to following the blindly idiotic and overtly predictable path of socialism are only a slight minority and we seem to harbor most of the intelligence. Even if Obama is elected with a veto proof majority, I have growing confidence that this election cycle has awakened the (by its nature) sleeping giant of economic conservatism both here and abroad.

Scott in California

I live in California. If Obama is elected, God help us all. Personally, if he wins I plan on giving him the same respect the Left has shown George Bush for the last eight years.

George

I hope and pray that Obama turns out to be the USA's Shimon Peres - always winning in the opinion polls but losing at the ballot box.

Bill M

Don't worry. Under Obama we'll have Minipax

http://www.thepeacealliance.org/content/view/77/118/

Chris Quinn

We will all miss America when it is gone.

Bill

The only time Obama will use "soft power" is on his American hating allies. Anyone who thinks this Marxist and his merry band of Chicago thugs won't unleash the full force of the U.S. Military when it serves his plans to change the world are fools on par with Neville Chamberlin.

realist

Your piece assumes many sweeping generalizations about the two American candidates for the presidency. Have you ever heard this saying? Assume makes an ass out o u and me!

Obama is the consummate strategist. He is intelligent, educated and capable of assembling functional groups of intelligent, competent people to deal with the country's challenges.

FDR dealt with the challenges very effectively. Your assumption that a Democrat is weak is rather ridiculous.

You are skilled at writing a polemic.

I happen to strongly disagree with you and am more frightened by an elderly hawk who seems erratic and confused, has strong financial interests in continuing the pre-emptive invasion of Iraq. I am even more frightened of the poor judgment he has shown by choosing a female Arctic cowboy who is ignorant of the American Constitution, given to believing her own lies and rhetoric and far too comfortable with nepotism and not comfortable at all with accountability as his running mate and possible president should he be incapacitated or die. Surely you jest if you believe McCain/Palin are up to the challenges of this globalized world!

George Bush has paved the way for Obama!

Accept it.

Zebulon Quinn

There is a tendency to every 4 years pronounce the presidential election the "most critical election in US history." The one this year is critical, as are most of them.

I'll be voting for McCain, but I suspect I'm in the minority. The Republicans have had the helm for 8 years and have done with it what they have. Most people look at it and say it's time to give the other side a turn. The conservative movement started by Ronald Reagan 30 years ago is in complete tatters and disarray. In the 20 years since Reagan left office the conservative movement has been mishandled, mismanaged, even undermined, under 12 years of domination by Bush and his father. It reached the point where by 2008 there was a total absence of conservative leadership. That's how and why McCain won the Republican nomination. That's why the choice of Sarah Palin is so wildly popular amongst the conservative cohort. She stepped into a vacuum. She's still the only one there. The Republicans are not ready to lead in a coherent way.

Maybe the Republicans are due for a spell out of power to reorganize themselves and to put forth fresh leadership with focused conservative ideas.

Four years of Jimmy Carter gave the world Ronald Reagan. It can and probably will happen again.

Frank P

Tam

Excellent post; I wouldn't be too hard on Hayward; he once had a bit of financial luck; it went to his head and enabled him to wander the world, particularly those parts South of Border which he calls 'the real America'. He's been able to buy lots of books and a pair of red-tinted spectacles; also a PC connected to the Internet enabling him to infiltrate the non-leftist blogs and educate us in the aims of Utopian communism. The filter on his spectacles therefore prevents him from seeing the obvious in geopolitical matters. In fact at times he seems unable to see beyond the end his own nose and certainly focuses on all matters anti-Amerikkkan, Bushitler, the dreaded and evil neo-conmilitaryindustrialcomplex.
He is a wag, but if you stick around you'll get used to his nonsense. Luckily while he is spending his time here - trying to convert us pro-Western counter-counter-revolutionaries who have realised that anti-Islamic-jihad enjoined (pro-tem; the enemy of my enemy is my temporary friend) with hard-core and crypto-Marxism is the main threat to world stability -he is not corrupting the credulous minds of the more youthful who spend their time on other blogs.

That's the great thing about Melanie's blog - it draws their fire and provides us with some amusement when the the likes of Howard keep coming back for more. He's from Down Under, too, be we don't hold that agin him, as there are a number of Australasians among the commentariat here who more than make up for Howard's quaint treatises with some good hard-nosed common sense - Oz style. God bless 'em! And God bless America, who, for better or worse we all rely on. Unless of course we are looking at the world through the same sort of distorted spectacles as Howard. In which case Obama would be our man.

TomTom

The most powerful individual in the next administration will be the Treasury Secretary persuading other countries to finance the US deficits...the next most important will be the Defence Secretary as Putin decides to invade Ukraine and pose a threat to Poland.

If the President happens to be Obama he had better think about how he will take on the threat of financial ruin if China and Russia do not approve of him, and how far he can follow in Clinton's footsteps of appeasing China.

Bush has been a disaster because his agenda was hi-jacked on 9/11 in a conspiracy planned when Clinton was President...Bush was an isolationist forced to reverse policy on 9/11...Obama wants to be an internationalist with a cratered US domestic economy dependent on foreign economic aid to fund the US Treasury.

Whatever Obama promises he cannot deliver, he belongs to the Bond Markets

Aine

Ms. Phillips,

Thank you for your clear voice from one of the many Americans who fear our election is being stolen out from under us, aided and abetted by most media. Another wonderful article.

derek

I don't get this article. america's becoming old news because of our existing policies. as brazil, china, russia and more countries are becoming more and more powerful, america's status in the world is becoming less and less prominent. is it america's primary goal to stay a world power, or to support a world where every nation is sustainable on its own (and thus preventing wars)? A McCain presidency will aim to ensure America is the most powerful nation in the world. Personally, as a human first, and an American second, I prefer an Obama presidency that will aim to ensure harmony among all people in the world.

Highlander

"Is America Really Going To Do This?"

We had all better hope not. Europeans too, will suffer from a weakened America under Obama. Until now Europe's social experiments have been made possible within a protective American military cocoon; courtesy of the American taxpayer. With an economically weakened U.S. and the abandonment of a global leadership role by Obama, America's reach, and the security provided therein, will shrink. The result: the world will quickly become a much more dangerous place for us all.

I am one American who would see McCain elected and America continue her vital role in a dangerous world. But defeating Obama is an uphill battle. We have been betrayed by our media, who have successfully insulated Obama from a host of issues that would have long since sunk any other candidate. The stakes for us and the world have never been higher. With a far-left president Obama, a super-majority in Congress for the Democrats, and a corrupt press leading interference for them both, the way would be clear for America's descent into tyranny, and the world's increasing descent into chaos.

Dr. Dean

Less is known about Obama the man than about Joe the plumber. All we have are Obama's books (which would only be taken at face value by a fool - they are semi-fictionalized...), his lean voting record in public office, and those relationships Obama chose over his life to date. For me the biggest issue is the latter as his judgment in choosing associates indicates the kind of people he will choose to fill the over 6000 positions in his administration. There is nothing on the record that would lead us to believe that he will build a moderate, uniting administration. On the contrary, the Samantha Powers types he prefers will be driving much of American foreign and domestic policy. And that is something that should scare the heck our of any good American.

Frank P

As usual Mark Steyn writes it the way it is:

The Point of No Return
Will we vote for the same soothing siren song as our enervated allies?

By Mark Steyn

Across the electric wires, the hum is ceaseless: Give it up, loser. Don’t go down with the ship when it’s swept away by the Obama tsunami. According to newspaper reports, polls show that most people believe newspaper reports claiming that most people believe polls showing that most people have read newspaper reports agreeing that polls show he’s going to win.

In the words of Publishers’ Clearing House, he may already have won! The battleground states have all turned blue, the reddest of red states are rapidly purpling. Don’t you know, little fool? You never can win. Use your mentality, wake up to reality. Why be the last right-wing pundit to sign up with Small-Government Conservatives For The Liberal Supermajority? We still need pages for the coronation, and there’s a pair of velvet knickerbockers with your name on it.

Yes, technically, this is still a two-party state, but one of the parties is like Elton John’s post-Oscar bash and the other is a church social in Wasilla. As David Sedaris put it in The New Yorker:

“I think of being on an airplane. The flight attendant comes down the aisle with her food cart and, eventually, parks it beside my seat. ‘Can I interest you in the chicken?’ she asks. ‘Or would you prefer the platter of shit with bits of broken glass in it?’

“To be undecided in this election is to pause for a moment and then ask how the chicken is cooked.”

Well, to be honest, I’ve never much cared for chicken.

McCain vs Obama is not the choice many of us would have liked in an ideal world. But then it’s not an “ideal world”, and the belief that it can be made so is one of the things that separates those who think Obama will “heal the planet” and those of us who support McCain faute de mieux. I agree with Thomas Sowell that an Obama-Pelosi supermajority will mark what he calls “a point of no return”. It would not be, as some naysayers scoff, “Jimmy Carter’s second term”, but something far more transformative. The new president would front the fourth great wave of liberal annexation — the first being FDR’s New Deal, the second LBJ’s Great Society, and the third the incremental but remorseless cultural advance when Reagan conservatives began winning victories at the ballot box and liberals turned their attention to the other levers of the society, from grade school up. The terrorist educator William Ayers, Obama’s patron in Chicago, is an exemplar of the last model: forty years ago, he was in favor of blowing up public buildings; then he figured out it was easier to get inside and undermine them from within.

All three liberal waves have transformed American expectations of the state. The spirit of the age is: Ask not what your country can do for you, demand it. Why can’t the government sort out my health care? Why can’t they pick up my mortgage?

In his first inaugural address, Calvin Coolidge said: “I favor the policy of economy, not because I wish to save money, but because I wish to save people.” That’s true in a more profound sense than he could have foreseen. In Europe, lavish social-democratic government has transformed citizens into eternal wards of the nanny state: the bureaucracy’s assumption of every adult responsibility has severed Continentals from the most basic survival impulse, to the point where unaffordable entitlements on shriveled birth rates have put a question mark over some of the oldest nation states on earth. A vote for an Obama-Pelosi-Barney Frank-ACORN supermajority is a vote for a Europeanized domestic policy that is, as the eco-types like to say, “unsustainable”.

More to the point, the only reason why Belgium has gotten away with being Belgium and Sweden Sweden and Germany Germany this long is because America’s America. The soft comfortable cocoon in which western Europe has dozed this last half-century is girded by cold hard American power. What happens when the last serious western nation votes for the same soothing beguiling siren song as its enervated allies?

“People of the world,” declared Senator Obama sonorously at his self-worship service in Germany, “look at Berlin, where a wall came down, a continent came together, and history proved that there is no challenge too great for a world that stands as one.”

No, sorry. History proved no such thing. In the Cold War, the world did not stand as one. One half of Europe was a prison, and in the other half far too many people — the Barack Obamas of the day — were happy to go along with that division in perpetuity. And the wall came down not because “the world stood as one” but because a few courageous people stood against the conventional wisdom of the day. Had Margaret Thatcher and Ronald Reagan been like Helmut Schmidt and Francois Mitterand and Pierre Trudeau and Jimmy Carter, the Soviet empire (notwithstanding its own incompetence) would have survived and the wall would still be standing. Senator Obama’s feeble passivity will get you a big round of applause precisely because it’s the easy option: Do nothing but hold hands and sing the easy listening anthems of one-worldism, and the planet will heal.

To govern is to choose. And sometimes the choices are tough ones. When has Barack Obama chosen to take a stand? When he got along to get along with the Chicago machine? When he sat for 20 years in the pews of an ugly neo-segregationist race-baiting grievance-monger? When he voted to deny the surviving “fetuses” of botched abortions medical treatment? When in his short time in national politics he racked up the most liberal – ie, the most doctrinaire, the most orthodox, the most reflex — voting record in the Senate? Or when, on those many occasions the questions got complex and required a choice, he dodged it and voted merely “present”?

The world rarely stands as one. You can, as Reagan and Thatcher did, stand up. Or, like Obama voting “present”, you can stand down.

Nobody denies that, in promoting himself from “community organizer” to the world’s President-designate in nothing flat, he has shown an amazing and impressively ruthless single-mindedness. But the path of personal glory has been, in terms of policy and philosophy, the path of least resistance.

Peggy Noonan thinks a President Obama will be like the dog who chases the car and finally catches it: Now what? I think Obama will be content to be King Barack the Benign, Spreader of Wealth and Healer of Planets. His rise is, in many ways, testament to the persistence of the monarchical urge even in a two-century old republic. So the “Now what?” questions will be answered by others, beginning with the liberal supermajority in Congress. And as he has done all his life he will take the path of least resistance. An Obama Administration will pitch America toward EU domestic policy and UN foreign policy. Thomas Sowell is right: It would be a “point of no return”, the most explicit repudiation of the animating principles of America. For a vigilant republic of limited government and self-reliant citizens, it would be a Declaration of Dependence.

If a majority of Americans want that, we holdouts must respect their choice. But, if you don’t want it, vote accordingly.

© Mark Steyn 2008

Another sage who gets it - and explains it with lucidity and scintillating wit.

Verity

Puppet - Well, I read that William Ayers wrote his book about his father for him. This wouldn't surprise me because other than this book - which he may not have written - he seems never to have been engaged in a long-term project. What has he ever accomplished. He never even voted in the Illinois Senate, except to say "Present". I think we've all noticed that he can say his lines with drama, but without a script he appears lost and jumpy.

L - You failed to tell us what you disapprove of about Melanie's post. All we know from your comment is, you disapprove of it. Strongly. But why?

Also, why on earth mention that you are black? So what? You're an American and you are choosing who to vote for in your national election. I can't see what your skin pigment has to do with anything, unless you are expecting special privileges for having been born black.

This sentence has a weird charm of its own: I have read articles from this site before and this is the first time I have been more upset than the previous reads.

Do come back and tell us what you specifically object to in Melanie's post.

Continuum

Thank God, the majority of the American people neither agree with your analysis of Obama nor of McCain.

Grant

I enjoy your insight on many issues, and I write this only to make a very minor correction to your piece. You state in point "c)" of greivances common to Hamas and Hezbollah the absence of Salafist Islam in the world. Salafism is a branch of Sunni Islam, to which Hamas does indeed subscribe and promote through violence. Hezbollah, however, is a faction within Shia Islam. Salafists consider Shiites apostates, and thus worthy of the death penalty. Hezbollah's greivance would more correctly be described as the absence of the Ayatollah Khomeini's revolutionary Shia Islam in the world.

Paul from Chicago

Soft power is *not* defined as "rectifying ‘grievances’ ... and resolving conflict by talking" nor does it imply the conflict is solely the fault of the west. It *is* about promoting enlightenment values and the values of freedom, both of conscience, speech, poltical and religious association and in the economic sphere. It's arguably more important than military power (which is not to say that there's no role for military power, but tanks and airpower aren't particularly efficient against asymmetric guerrilla/terror-based antagonists). This doesn't mean that there aren't things that are in dire need of correction in the US, what I also believe is still the greatest force for good on the planet. The soft power - AKA the "power of the idea" - of our nation is severely eroded by unnecessary torture and unsustainable economic practice, including an economy based all too largely on debt and fossil-fuel-based expansion of consumerism and planned obsolescense. Is Obama perfect? Far from it. I worry about what he will do to the deficit, and how deep his ties might be to the Illinois political sewer. But does he understand the need to reestablish our credibility as the leading light of post-enlightenment values and redirect our economy into something far more sustainable and able to compete in a changing world? If looked at relative to McCain there is simply no comparison.

Conservative Cabbie

Thanks Verity

He's certainly interesting, I wonder how effective he'll be on the stump, Palin's strength.

I suspect the 2012 GOP Primary will be about the money. Will it be Jindal or Palin who taps into the NRA, evangelical and Pro-Life monies. Whichever of those raises the most will probably be the nominee.

As I said a while ago, it looks like Jindal is going for it. He's scheduled a trip to Iowa after the election obstensibly to make a speech, but as we all know, Iowa is the first to go in the primary but is also a caucus state which means getting on the ground and meeting the party members face to face.

If McCain does lose in November, at least I'll be able to follow the manouverings for the primary.

John

Too bad if Obama becomes president the media will continue to cover for him and most people will never hear any downside to his policies. Obama will break his so called "tax cut" pledge and increase taxes on the middle class. How will people find out about it? The media? no they will see their paychecks just like Clintons disappearing middle class tax cut that turned into an increase . Israel sold out..how will people find out about it? They wont. Any Obama policy that leads to a real downside will simply go unreported. Its not news if those ideologically allied to Obama dont say its news and their quest for Socialism and the enslavement to the state for your bennies will keep the morons pressing the button for democrats. Maybe democrats will even pass a new "Fairness Doctrine" so they can shut down the limited opposition and questioning they get from conservative dominated talk radio. It certainly would be rightous payback to the mainstream media who have accepted everything Obama has said without question. How can people be so stupid to simply accept reporting that seems too good to be true. If I was from outside the USA and accepted the socialist principle of the "pie O' wealth" that the greedy USA simply takes too much of to the detriment of other countries I would want Obama for president too. He means a weaker US where the individual is further demoralized to excel. Make 74K a year you currently pay 28% federal tax 5-7% state, 7% social security and medicare (15% if self-employed) and a 5-8% sales tax on what you buy...along with property taxes. For Obama it just is not enough! Out Military will also weaken and those good souls in Russia, Iran and Venezuela will surly have the "world communities" best interest at heart unlike the evil USA. One things for sure it will hurt those outside the US far more than it will hurt us so I hope you enjoy your new world order.

joe

The US is not part of the free world anymore, you are keeping people locked up without a fair trail. Not to mention all the torturing etc. That's something countries belonging to the axis of evil do, not free countries, with a decent democracy.

Tiberius

There are, alas, many in the BRITAIN for whom all this is music to their ears. Whether through wickedness, ideology, stupidity or derangement, they firmly believe that the ultimate source of conflict in BRITAIN derives at root from THE TORIES, whose societies, culture and values they want to see emasculated or destroyed altogether. They are drooling at the prospect that an BLAIR PREMIERSHIP will bring that about. The rest of us can’t sleep at night.

Bill M

L-

"If you actually lived here where 90% of us do..." 90% of whom?

paul hill

The better of the two candidates is going to win;no big deal ....relax......it's Democracy

Sumi

Underinformed hit piece. Yawn.

Morgenholz

Yes, Melanie, I fear we are about to do this.

Give it 6 months. I think American exceptionalism will surprise you, and the world, and scare the living hell out of our enemies. The word on the street here is not peaceful, but it is uniquely American.

Have faith not in the American government, but in her people. But wait until after the election for that last part. It'll be OK.

James

Excellent as always, Melanie.

I am however, pessimistic. The mainstream media here in America has become nothing less than an arm of the Obama campaign whose agenda is to attack McCain while simultaneously suppress any information which could harm the prospects of their Messiah.

It's not just Obama's foreign policy which will spell disaster for America - it's absolutely everything about him. His economic plan of raising taxes on big business during a recession is suicidal, for instance. But the media just doesn't care and will not, with the exception of the Wall St. Journal and Investors Business Daily, print any opposing view whatsoever.

Many have remarked that this election is the one during which journalism finally died. Not just in America either - the disgraceful BBC has officially thrown its own Charter under the bus and has allowed hacks like Justin Webb to use their BBC blogs to claim that anyone thinking of voting for McCain must "hate America."

This could in fact be the end of the mainstream media as more and more of us discard it in favor of online sources we can trust.

It does not seem like five minutes since the phrase "I read it on the internet" inspired mockery and derision. Now the roles are changing and the internet is gradually being seen as the only place you can actually find objective information and reasonable viewpoints.

Carolynn

I do not will my country (usa)ill, or that of any nation. However, I look forward to being able to look the liberals in the eye and say " We told you so."

Feyi

Melanie,

What are you going to do with yourself if Obama wins?
The man hasnt been President yet and you are already gazing into your crystal to predict not only what he would do but the consequences of the actions he would take.
You need to chill out...seriously.

Obama is nothing if not thoughtful you have no evidence to prove that he's a terrorist sympathizer as you appear to be implying here.

After 8 years of an American President who shoots first and asks questions later and who has shown a complete disdain of any point of view that he disagrees with...what can be wrong with a president who thinks?

If you criticize Obama because we dont know how he would govern, fair enough.
But to frame him effectively as a narrow minded idiot as you have done there is unbecoming even for you.

Jacky

This is WOW! I am greatfull for this information. I am reading some books and this give me light!

Taylor

As an American, I would have to agree. As a country we have troubles in seeing past the glitz and glamour of popular icons, like the one Obama has become. He has modeled himself into the young, attractive presidential candidate. McCain has trouble getting to the Americans in the short run, but in thhe long run, he really does know whats best for the direction of the country.

I'm so relieved to hear that the Europeans aren't "starry-eyed" for Obama. USA Today showed a poll in which Europeans wanted Obama in the White House 67%-31%
I'm glad to know that Europeans are smarter than most Americans preceive you all to be.
Once again, Thank You!

Lisa S

Re:Hayward Maberley

When corrupt Democrats stand in the way of reforming the loan agencies and even encourage bad loans, thats why we have this problem.

America is Not the problem, America IS the solution.

NOBAMA!

TioNed

I see the asylum inmates are patting each other on the back for how perceptive they are..

You really want Mr Angry Erratic Triggerhappy and Mrs. Theocrat Diva with their fingers near the big red button? I would be happy to let the British have them if I didn't have so many friends there..

Mrs. Palin is already sharpening her knife for Mr. McCain. If McCain had bothered to vet her properly, he would have known that backstabbing was one of the hallmarks of her political career...

John from Chicago

Hopefully my fellow Americans DON'T do this, but it's looking ugly. Also, though I really want McCain to win, even if he does his presidency will be sabotaged at every turn by the poisonous democratic party hacks that now control Congress (i.e. Reid and Pelosi). I'm not saying he's not tough enough to take it, but it will make getting things done--especially the right things--very difficult. The only redeeming positive I can see in Obama getting elected is he and the democrats will screw stuff up so bad that they won't be back in power for decades. Even the news media can't cover up everything.

Augustus

Whereas orthodox American Jews appear to have their heads on straight, it puzzles me why so many other Jews over there support Barack Obama. There is no way that Obama is Commander-in-Chief material.

Would any business owner, who had worked all his life to build up a business suddenly take a massive leap of faith and hire a CEO who refuses to disclose fully who he is? Someone who cannot certify his experience and counters his apparent weaknesses with fanciful rhetoric of where he's likely to take your business? You would know instinctively that he makes little sense, and that what he proposes will irreparably harm the livlihoods of all you employ. And you would recognize that although ambitious and confident as this individual is who brazenly withholds his record, and who embellishes at will, you would also know with every bone in your body that he is the wrong person to hire for such a responsible position. So why risk it? Why risk everthing on this one individual with a CV that fits on the back of a driver's license you're unsure even belongs to the applicant? Why be so reckless? Especially when there's an applicant who you know has a proven work ethic, shows immense loyalty, does not obfuscate who he is and what his intentions are, is consistent on many matters, and takes his responsibilities seriously. Someone who realizes the position isn't some theatre to satisfy his ballooning ego, and wanting to be adored by all and sundry, and who know what real challenges are. Why reward the novice? It doesn't make sense.

Tugboat Phil

Melanie, this is the first time I have ever read your work. Like you, I don't trust McCain on some things. All of those items are domestic affairs. I do trust him on the big, bad world he must face. I have no evidence that Obama has ever stood toe to toe and fought for anything.

N, I am also American. My answer to your concerns about Palin is yes I trust her. She said early on that she wouldn't blink. Having watched the press throw everything at her, including the kitchen sink, I have not seen her "go wobbly." She can put crosshairs on an elk and pull the trigger. She can launch an attack if required.

Blue Tiger

Absolutely excelent post. Your erudite comprehensive analysis is a breath of fresh air. Here (in the US) people don't seem to get it. I will happily forward this article widely.

To N's comment below, yes McCain is old but I don't think that should be an issue. If you read reports on longevity of life, two main criteria prevail... family history and history of overcoming disease and trauma to the body. Many of John McCain's relatives have lived long beyond their life expectancy. His mother is 96 and still going strong. He has overcome medical issues with ease in the past and everyone is familiar with the torture that he endured as a POW.

Courtney

This is a concerned American who is SCARED to death of this man, Obama! There are soooo many of us who don't understand why he has ANY support, when he clearly has the worst intentions for America, thus effecting the rest of the world either directly or indirectly.

Please everyone that reads this needs to know that there are Americans who can see strait through this man. We are doing everything we can to inform his supporters of what he really is, but they FLAT OUT DON'T CARE!!!!!! Please help in spreading the word about this man's true intentions for not only America, but the rest of the world.

Thank You.

Jill

It appears that commenter Hayward Maberley is the only one on the right track here. Melanie ignores history and no less the history of Republican presidents and how they have dealt with dictators in the Middle East, South America and Africa.

Obama is not "ashamed" of America, but we must look at our part. There is no worry that Israel would be harmed, but there are also plenty of Israelis who do NOT like the hard-liners' policies.

Reagan's Star Wars Defense Initiative was a boondoggle. Scientists point that out.

Bush Sr. wanted to reduce nuclear weapons, nothing new to the Nuclear Proliferation Treaty. (Don't worry, Obama won't get rid of our trump cards.)

Even the Bush administration has moved more "soft." Read Fareed Zakaria's "What Bush Got Right." Finally!

Samantha Power wrote books on genocide - that's her main concern.

The millions of peaceful Muslims who have been grouped with fanatics and jihadists, is unfair. Some bridging is necessary.

But don't worry folks, us secular liberals who support Obama will NEVER let our culture (at least the freedom of speech and separation of church business) happen. Come to blows, we support defending our country and we will not let our ally Israel come to harm. But a first strike on Iran would have serious effects. McCain is too military for the 21st century.

Melanie sounds too alarmist.

Obama will never be my president

What better way to pull off the "ultimate terrorist attack" than from the inside?
That's what Osama and his terrorists buddies have planned for our country. The terror groups are contributing big bucks to his campaign online.
I also think Osama will tear up the Constitution and declare himself king. You just wait and see what Hussein and those idiots in congress have planned for us. The Great Depression is going to look like the "good ole days" compared to what we're in for if Hussein wins.

Seth Halpern

Melanie, you didn't even mention the most frightening part of Obama's agenda: His close allies who believe they are entitled to suppress the free speech of opponents via harassment by the federal tax authorities, organized mob-style intimidation, criminal libel prosecutions, a return to the "fairness doctrine" intended to squash conservative talk-radio, and, of course , endless gag-inducing allegations of racism or religious intolerance. And did I forget voter fraud? All par for the course for a latter-day messianic cult that even enlists children to sing ditties to its savior -- courtesy of the ostensibly objective high executives at a leading television network. Madness it certainly is , gone respectable thanks to a distracting financial shock, an ironically controversy-shy Republican war hero candidate and accumulated cultural rot. I don't know if Americans will awake from their delirium before November 4. All I can promise is that the later they do, the more stringent will be the ultimate reckoning.

Red White & Blue

Trust me...I am an American and I will not vote for him. Anyone that feels killing a baby is someone I wouldn't want as a boss. He has no compassion for life and just spent less than 24 hours with his "GRAVELY ILL" grandmother. He couldn't find it in his heart to spend Sunday with her, for her birthday. He needed to come back to the lower 48 and continue his frightening path to victory.

The Bible tells us all about people like him, but...with our economy in the shape it's in, people are desparate. Desparate people do desparate things, and it sure looks like he's gonna win the white house, through deaparate voter's.

God gave us free choice, but with caution.

Thank you for writing such a first class article.

God bless!

Howard

Are you honestly going to try to define "American exceptionalism" for us? George Bush and John McCain's version of "American exceptionalism" says that whatever we do is inherently right simply because we are America.

Some of us can think a little deeper than that and recognize that while we will do anything and everything necessary to defend ourselves from others, that we can do this without our middle finger raised to the rest of the world. The US didn't become dominant simply because we had a strong military, but because other nations looked at us and saw a culture and values that they could respect. When we stray from those values -- by torturing prisoners, refusing to work with the rest of the world on climate change, etc. -- or assume that others will follow us simply because we are America, we are not "exceptional."

America is not great because of its name, but because of its people and values. You, Bush, and McCain have replaced "American exceptionalism" with merely "American hubris."

Terry M. Sater

My God. I'm stunned. I didn't think anybody outside of the U.S. thought this way. As an American, my fear is that the country I grew up in, fought for and love, will be transformed into a faded, emasculated, Marxist shadow of the great country it was.

lizzy

I feel the despair in your question, Melanie. Polls say lots of things including that the rest of the world - as if the poll was that extensive - wants Obama as POTUS. Not all of us! The lack of scrutiny by the media, and the treatment of Sarah Palin in particular, has been mind-boggling, absolutely appalling. Those of us who use their own judgement, based on what we can see and research away from MSM, know Palin and McCain are the real deal and Obama and Biden are clear and present danger to the world.

Spencer de Vere

Melamie, you a pistol !

Thanks for putting so directly, what all decent, rational individuals sense about this Obama creature..

John Aidiniantz

Picture for a moment Palin with her well-manicured finger on the nuclear trigger. Having a person as Vice President or possibly as President with less sense than a Moose munching a Mars bar has got to be an American Nightmare and more dangerous for the World than anything else one can imagine.

McCain lacks judgement. He would have appeared more credible if he had chosen Jerry Springer as his running mate.

Joe Camel

Within a couple of months of the next U.S. president moving into the White House, it now seems there will quite probably be a new government in Israel as well. Haaretz quotes Livni as saying in an interview, “I promised to exhaust efforts to form a government, and that’s what I did.” Her decision means that elections will probably be held in February or March, Haaretz says.

http://www.haaretz.com/hasen/spages/1031253.html

Is it the end of the road for Kadima? Everybody seems to be assuming that early elections = Bibi Netanyahu back in the driving seat. Looks like we're in for interesting times.

Verity

lizzy - There are lots of us here, some of us having lived in the United States and having great respect for your Constitution, who are on your side. To millions of us in Britain, this is a squalid reflection ... we have seen it before in Tony Blair, who took an axe to our ancient Constitution and our ancient Bill of Rights - and got away with it because the media were frightened of him and his carefully chosen cohorts.

Obama is Blair II.

Fatal to national identity and cohesion, and liberty.

Fight!

Ing

Awesome.

I remind my fellow Americans that there is nothing negative about preventing a disaster from being elected President. Even more disturbing is Obama's public appearances in Kenya in 2006 with his cousin Raila Odinga, whose supporters burned numerous churches to the ground after Odinga lost the presidential election by more than 200,000 votes. Odinga is said to have signed a memorandum of understanding that would institute Islamic law in Kenya: regardless, he has directly caused the death of at least 1,000 Kenyans and has made homeless several thousand Kikuyu, as ITN & CNN have documented.

I don't worship McCain, but I know he will stand up to Islam.

Maranna

Don't underestimate the great silent majority of the US. Power will be gently removed from Obama's grasp, and I think Congress will see some changes, also.

Only Howard and others of his ilk would think Americans flip the bird at the rest of the world. As the rest of the world has it's own agenda (e.g., the agendas of the other nations), so too does the US. Come on! The Americans are there when anyone really needs them, and you know it.

TioNed

Would any business owner, who had worked all his life to build up a business suddenly take a massive leap of faith and hire a CEO who refuses to disclose fully who he is?

Would a presidential candidate enlist a running mate that won't reveal who she is? Or bother checking out if she is what she claims she is?

John McCain did. That's why he should never be POTUS, like you say. The half-baked, unvetted, selection of an unqualified, disloyal running mate, the first major decision he did as candidate, is a complete failure. The idea that this woman would be qualified to be President is ludicrous in the extreme. Anyone who would make such a selection is NOT ready to be president.

First big decision.. blew it.
Second big decision ( how to react to the banking crisis)... blew that too.

How many mulligans do you want to give John? These decisions are ones that have no do-over if they're decided incorrectly. Like pushing the big red button. McCain seemingly can't make a decision that doesn't require the opportunity for a do-over, and as President he won't have many decisions that allow for do-overs.

Sue

Ms. Phillips, thank you for posting this article. As an American, I'm very concerned about the future of the US and how we defend ourselves and our allies.

Susan

While I agree that John McCain will be better than Obama in the area of foreign affairs, I also know that no US president, no matter how foolishly Marxist he actually is, will ever really let us go under. It is sad that we will probably have to undergo some more attacks, but even he will be then forced to move, & move decisively. I's been 8 years since 9/11 - some decried our bombing Afghanistan, but it sure worked!! Ms. Phillips, you are right to be worried, but I counsel you not to lose all hope - I live here, & I'm not despairing *utterly*.

Verity

Conservative Cabbie - Like you, I have spotted this Palin/Jindal situation. They are both immensely likeable and powerful figures. Jindal, at the time of the next election, will be a famously succesful and powerful governor of a revivified state - after 100 years of corruption. Palin will have been the Vice President of the United States.

Jindal for Secretary of State? (I don't think, and believe you might agree, that VP - under a Palin presidency, which would probably be a two-termer, would be suitable for such a blazing intelligence. I think Secretary of State.)

The next election is going to be the really thrilling one! I feel as though we're marking time just now, until Obama gets thrown on the landfill of history. Where he belongs.

Verity

Feyi writes: "October 25th, 2008 10:03pm
Melanie,
What are you going to do with yourself if Obama wins?"

I didn't bother to read your boilerplate, but I believe Melanie Phillips has had, throughout her professional life as a national and international journalist, and as an international best selling author, plenty to occupy her.

I expect your concern for her future doesn't occasion the blink of an eye.

De Toqueville

James (above 9.59pm) writes:

"Many have remarked that this election is the one during which journalism finally died. Not just in America either - the disgraceful BBC has officially thrown its own Charter under the bus and has allowed hacks like Justin Webb to use their BBC blogs to claim that anyone thinking of voting for McCain must "hate America."

This could in fact be the end of the mainstream media as more and more of us discard it in favor of online sources we can trust.

It does not seem like five minutes since the phrase "I read it on the internet" inspired mockery and derision. Now the roles are changing and the internet is gradually being seen as the only place you can actually find objective information and reasonable viewpoints.

**

No, James, the BBC's Justin Webb has not said anything of the kind and would be instantly dismissed if he did.

Is your post some kind of postmodern satire? If not, I suggest you go and have a good lie down in a quiet room and only get up when your computer has been safely locked away in a cupboard by your carers.

Melanie P is a fairly skilled polemicist, always has been -- even when she was a leftwing journo mostly writing about social policy for the Guardian. Good for her. These days, sadly, she is more of a demagogue. Her piece is interesting enough, but it is relies on any number of bald assertions and rash generalisations. Perhaps she should go and have a nice chat with Stella Rimington, the ex-MI5 boss who has a very different view of the threat posed by Islamists.

But more to the point, as an interested bystander and British friend of America who believes in democracy, I am frightened by the vicious tone of the debate, even here on the Spectator website. Is any one else?

Assuming Obama wins, are we going to have to put up with four or more years of internet nutters talking about anti-Americanism, palling around with terrorists, and the rest, or is all that dreck just a campaign tactic? God let's hope so.

I'm pretty sure Mr McCain himself will do everything he can to rally round if Obama wins. He is after all, a patriot and a democrat.

As we know, democracy is the worst system of government yet devised, except for all the others. But the tricky bit is your own team doesn't always win. Failing to respect the verdict of the people and labelling your opponents as unpatriotic is a slippery slope -- one that ends in McCarthyism and/or on Elm Street, Dallas TX -- and it's one that too many people, even here on a Spectator blog, appear to be in danger of sliding down.

Frank P

Considering the comments from the US on this thread, I wonder what odds the bookies would give on a Second American Civil War commencing during the next four years, regardless of which candidate wins?

Verity

Lizzie writes, thanking us for our support, "Obama and Biden are clear and present danger to the world."

Well, Lizzie, Obama, I'll give you. He's a piece of work, as are the worker ants in the media surrounding him and propping him up and posing him around.

But Joe Biden? A danger? - except as a threat to the boredom threshhold? This man is so low-aspirational, he copied, verbatim, the speech of British political loser Neil Kinnock. Word for word. As in, presented the entire speech as his own.

I don't think we have to worry that he is too quick on his feet for the average American voter.

derek

Can we stop saying the MSM has a liberal bias? As a liberal, I think it certainly doesn't not represent me. In this particular election, has the news favored Obama in a more positive light and McCain in more negative light? Yes, it has. Why? Because a majority of the negative stories on Obama are baseless/inconsequential/rumors while McCain's campaign has been a mess from day 1. That is the news. Its not the media's job to distort news in order to maintain what seems to be a non-bias. As a liberal, I have been frustrated with the MSM plenty of times because I think it has a conservative bias (2000/2004). As one person commented, they look forward to being able to say "I told you so" to Obama supporters. You know, I thought the same thing about when Bush was elected, and unfortunately I didn't feel too much redemption it, so you might want to look forward to a better place. Peace.

exhelodrvr

Derek,
"I prefer an Obama presidency that will aim to ensure harmony among all people in the world."

Sorry, but that's incredibly naive. Do you think that will make Putin stop? Or convince the Arabs not to want the destruction of Israel?

Fred Davis

To answer the question, "Is America really going to do this,"
I'm beginning to believe that they really are. Months ago, I would have answered differently, but after having watched this Presidential campaign develop, I have come to the realization that we have a majority of people in this country who don't understand our role in the world and have no understanding of how the President is expected to discharge his duties in assuring that this role be carried out correctly. Even more stunning is the realization that those who do not understand do not understand that they do not understand.

Bill M

Here's how dangerous he really is:

“I will cut investments in unproven missile defense systems. I will not weaponize space. I will slow our development of future combat systems. [snip] I will set a goal of a world without nuclear weapons. To seek that goal, I will not develop new nuclear weapons. I will seek a global ban on the production of fissile material. And I will negotiate with Russia to take our ICBM’s off hair-trigger alert.”

Tipper

Yes, I bought a big bottle of it as well, one can drink it straight if one wants to do something impressive. Good enough. I read one review saying it has a citrus tinge to it. I wasn't so sure about that.

jumjim

Thank you Melanie for this great post. The MSM has become propaganda machine for Obama so it's almost impossible to expose the real Obama to Amerian people. It's sad as they make the bigger news out of Palin's wardrobe than Obama's associations. The media will try to make us believe that Obama's tendency to radicalism is just a smear. But it's not. It shows what he believes and his judgement. Obama doesn't have a good record in chosing his friends, advisors, donors, etc. He has no problem with hanging out with terrorist symphatizers, communists, socialists, convicted felons. He has track records for that but the media refuse to do the job.

Liberals believe when criminals or terrorists commit crimes, they can solve the problem by being nice to them, talking to them and by making friend with them, they can somehow change thier behavior. They are wrong then (Jimmy Carter) and they will be wrong again if Obama's elected.

Michaelq

Some moronic twit trolls post a blog by a militant atheist whacko who thinks aliens created life and they make fun of Sarah Palin?

Come on guys, wake up. Its the 21st century. Darwin died and so did gradulism, and the Modern Synthesis. Only uninformed idiots don't know this by now. Leading researchers are finally onto Self-organization - oooops!

Can't say that magic can we? Or the Fascist watchdog atheist will tell the scientist to shut up and be quiet.

A growing number of scientist are now questioning the very root of Darwin's tree and the veracity of LUCA, moving more towards polyphyly as a better theory to describe history and DNA results.

The recent and famously watched Attenburg 16 evolutionist still believe in evolution, yet they all say there are major problems with Darwinism. It cannot explain Macro-Evolution.

But this was known a long, long time ago. Atheist thought they could overcome it with genetics and Modern Synthesis, but alas, this failed too. So they are trying any number of hypothesis now, including symbiotic evolution, but the everyone knows that life - came from life. And they know, they must admit that the "self-organization" is programmatic, designed and filled with feedback loops and key language attributed, including meta layers between coded and "non-coded DNA.

Frankly, if your not up to speed on the latest research, you end up looking very stupid.

Sarah Palin may not know all the information about the latest theory on "evolution" as it stands today. But then, neither do you idiots as if obvious by your comments and your links to a fanatic hater of Judeo-Christian believers.

The truth is, once you get past all the hate your failed professor spews, the real scientist at the top of the food chain all know they don't have an answer yet. That Darwin's theory failed, that Modern Synthesis failed, and the large majority of assumptions about Darwinian Tree schematics are complete failures.

Now you may wish to go on bashing Governor Palin all you like, but the truth is, if the top scientist in the world are saying all theories to date have failed to explain life on this planet, you really don't have anything to stand on.

I suggest you google the report on Attenburg 16 for a very good read on the state of evolution science. Many are leading towards Self-Organization. But they all know this playes into the hands of Intelligent Design Theorist. Thus, the atheist fanatic attack dogs tell them not to go there.

Poor, poor fanatical atheist. Whatever will Weasel Dawkins do, when he's not flubbing up his on failed computer program that proves he was wrong?

LOL....

Ginny in CO

Wow. This is encouragment I could probably only get at this site. As much as I have read by various scholars (some conservative), and concluded that many of those actions you think Obama would do to be correct, I have no delusions that he will go anywhere near as far as you suggest. Really, aren't the Dems a bunch of wishy washy wimps? The blue dogs ain't getting retired just yet. The GOP will retain enough seats in Congress to put up the resistance to derail any Democratic juggernaut.

Cheer up folks. Seriously, can Obama be anywhere near as bad for you, or the US, as GWB has been for us all? I really don't see him wanting his daughters to grow up and live as adults in a socialist, let alone communist, country. I sure as hell wouldn't vote for him if there was any serious evidence that he would try to change the country (and the Constitution) to that degree. He grew up with a lot more influence from a WWII vet and his wife, than any one but his mother. I think she was focused as much on developing his learning skills as teaching him what to believe.

FWIW, I am a former Republican and Libertarian. Read everything Ayn Rand wrote and agreed with 95% of it for about a decade.

I still believe in her business ethics. If more businessmen and corporations would follow them, capitalism could work. Unfortunately, experience with large companies ultimately led me to one uncontested conclusion. Any human organization, whether for profit, religion, government or even fun, will end up with some of the group doing stupid, greedy, dangerous, mean or ignorant things that drag the organizatin and some of the people it serves down. The answer, as our founding fathers agreed, is checks and balances. Plus a citizenry who pay attention and stay involved with governing.

Don't forget, the Dems have been in the abyss that is threatening the GOP on Nov 5th. We are capable of empathy. Start thinking about how you can rebuild your party into something the Republicans my parents voted for, and I grew up with, would respect. Ike, Dirksen and Percy, Goldwater and others.

The Dems have grown a lot. Those of us who have watched this country swing back and forth on this crazy pendulum for decades would like to emerge from this debacle with a serious commitment to using constructive checks and balances of liberal - conservative perspectives to form a more perfect union. A country we could be happy and safe to live in. That would regain respect and cooperation from the other 94% of the human population we share the planet with.

The pride thing. I'm not a trinitarian but I do think the Bible has some very good ideas. I believe in self respect and responsibility. Setting oneself or a nation as better than others can go too far. One is elitism, the other is nationalism.

As an RN I have watched humans engaged in our constant balancing act. Being independent and self reliant while being connected and bonded to groups that we care about and that care about us. Being able to help others and needing human help to make it through the difficult times that cross every life.

Yes, we can. It will be a better outcome for all of us if we start having conversations instead of more head banging, hand wringing, anxiety laden shouting matches. If we reinstate courteous, repectful listening, with more effort to understand than to knee jerkingly disagree.

Why not try it?

Peace

kat in your hat PUMA--NYC

America! Don't you dare let this happen! Obama is not the average democrat! He is a hard core marxist with non-mainstream views of America and the world! Socialism for America could destabilize nations and harm people. Don't you dare be so reckless!

Reaction to Closed Minds

To the rest of the world: you ain't seen nothing yet! 2 points: if any political party should be severely punished for the subprime derived credit crisis, it should be the US Democratic Party - this is not gray but rather quite clear to anyone with any sense of objectivty (go back & scan the last 10 years of Wall Street Journal & Barron's). Why do I mention this here? Because the irony that the party that should be severely punished for this but instead will be rewarded with a super majority in Congress instead is directly & unequivocally tied to the bulk of the main stream media having decided that Obama must be the next Pres (not Clinton or McCain). Therefore, they cannot & will not report much or clearly about the actual origins of the FNMA & FreddieMc sub-prime securities & push to issue mortgages that should never have been granted. Most Americans have no idea of the history because of the inept or blatantly dishonest reporting of papers & broadcasters right now during this election cycle. [Note: Sen Clinton is actually lucky I think not to be the nominee because so many Clintonites are tied into this - Cisneros, Cuomo, Raines, Johnson - then there is Dodd & Frank (these two, if Republicans, would have been forced to resign their seats but no outrage for these Dems - it is horrible]. Which leads to the irony of the second point. The good old USA will get its first true Euro-left government in its history for bizarre ironic reasons. I travel overseas for business and know of what I write here & assert. To those of you in Europe of the left or socialist persuasion, you will say it is about time that America has come to its senses like much of enlightened Europe. I respond that America is a dream & idea which the beauty of its government is to let the country, by way of the freedom of its people to live with minimal Gov't interference, to continue to unfold & grow. With Pres Obama, while many will initially welcome what he does in the current poisonous environment - but either he will have to change or the country will. And I doubt Sen Obama as Pres, no matter what crisis, will be able to change the fundamental mindset of America, even his strongest understandable constituency- African Americans. Last, I am voting for Gov Palin. Again for Europe, many Americans (and you already have) are now falling for the beyond bias to outright dishonest reporting & attacks on her. She has gotten 10 times the negative attention as Obama & Biden combined - all designed to be negative. You need to understand that between 80-90% of the media is not just Democrat but liberal Democrat. And Palin represents a mortal threat to the left & many urban elites (and some elites who call themselves Republican in media which is for politics - NYC & WashDC). She is getting her 'sealegs' starting to get the hang of what she is doing now & the total hostility of the press & elements of her party. She is starting to ignore campaign staff advice - that is good as they have let her get slaughtered with no or little defense or even ineptly setting her up (e.g., the ridiculous $150,000 clothes story planted by Obama Campaign with media - smart of Obama camp to do this but stupid of McCain camp to have allowed this to become a story). There would be race riots in America if the same standard of reporting was applied to Obama. I voted for Carter over Ford and have never seen the outright dishonesty of the press reach these lengths. You will not notice this in Europe and many Democrats, especially liberals do not see this either as ii favors their candidate. But what is going on right now in this country with the media is almost scary in my lifetime and easily translates to the difference in polling margins between McCain & Obama if not more. That said Obama's campaign is better than McCain's. Unlike the Clintons, McCain is a semi-patsy initially believing he could dialogue with them the way he used to, now getting creamed by them - and it is beyond bias.
Last, Palin is learning 'the game'. She will be a formidable figure in the future (I almost do not want her to become VP so she can continue to grow & evolve versus getting stuck in a no-win role as VP under McCain who will continue to be bipartisan and get his head handed to him by a Dem supermajority). But I will always thank McCain for the brilliance in selecting her. Keep mocking her world, media, Republican elites and liberal Democrats. As Lorne Michaels, the executive produces of the tv humor show here in the US, Saturday Night Live said, she will continue to be underestimated but she has a grace and power that is highly telegenic. She will only start to get better now that she has seen how blatantly tilted the game is toward Democrats & especially this election cycle to Obama. But hold your breath world these next fews years - especially allies like Japan, Israel, Korea, Pakistan, India, NATO, Columbia (FARC will enjoy a resurgence if not maybe eventually take over Columbia). Do not blame the American electorate - this is the last gasp of a no longer needed (with new media) function - the press & broadcasters no longer have a credible role in information dissemination. They just are not honest brokers anymore, if they ever were.

Conservative Cabbie

From Mark Levin at NRO (Try substituting Obama's name with any self-obsessed totalitarian dictator and it will probably read the same):

"There is a cult-like atmosphere around Barack Obama, which his campaign has carefully and successfully fabricated, which concerns me. The messiah complex. Fainting audience members at rallies. Special Obama flags and an Obama presidential seal. A graphic with the portrayal of the globe and Obama's name on it, which adorns everything from Obama's plane to his street literature. Young school children singing songs praising Obama. Teenagers wearing camouflage outfits and marching in military order chanting Obama's name and the professions he is going to open to them. An Obama world tour, culminating in a speech in Berlin where Obama proclaims we are all citizens of the world. I dare say, this is ominous stuff. "

Conservative Cabbie

A difference in class.

Despite Obama stating in the last debate that John McCain's ads were 100% attack ads, John McCain on the day of Obama's acceptance of his nomination, launched a classy ad congratulating him and declaring it an historic day.

http://uk.youtube.com/watch?v=8v_ioN5SyBM

On the day McCain accepts his nomination, Obama goes on Bill O'Reilly (after having said he'd never go on Fox) to try and take attention from McCain. No class!

McCain has regularly credited Obama even going so far as saying "he's not someone to be afraid of".

Obama, not so much. He's never rebutted any of the filthy attacks on Sarah Palin, never criticised or denounced those from his side that are so quick to scream "racism", never sought to cool the hatred emanating from the left.

There are two candidates in this campaign, one has bucket loads of class, the other, who seeks to delude us with the mantra of change, has none.

Conservative Cabbie

This campaign, as in the title of Obama's book, is all about audacity - the audacity to ask Obama and Biden difficult questions.

1. Joe The Plumber has the cheek to ask Obama a question and Obama and his supporters turn on him. Now it transpires that the Dems in Ohio's state government had illegally accessed some of his files.

2. A local news channel (WFTV) had the audacity to ask Joe Biden some penetrating questions. For that temerity, Obama's campaign are refusing to go on the channel anymore.

The shape of things to come?

As for MSM bias, the LA Times have a video of Obama praising former PLO member Rashid Khalidi. Naturally in the interests of public interest, they're sitting on it, not releasing it. So it seems that in the US, news is no longer newsworthy if it has the audacity to hurt Obama.

The Audacity Of Hope? More like the audacity of anyone who opposes The One.

lizzy

Hello Verity, lizzy (with a y) here. Biden is not so harmless. All we need is a gaffe from him to get Iran (for one) riled - and I don't think they will be as forgiving as the MSM. (Sarah Palin on the other hand, would tell it like it is to their face.)

William

More insincere baloney from the jolly bullies club.

You will be proved wrong again.

Why do you believe that HATE YOUR NEIGHBOUR - and anybody who does not agree with you - can be a suitable platform for human existence?

News Flash

News just in off the wire.

Barack Obama's campaign chiefs are becoming concerned at his self-imposed two-day break from campaigning.

No-one else in the team wants to help carry the chip on Michelle's shoulder.

Tom

Apparently lots of Obama supporters are young folk.

Do they realise they’re all mortgaging their own futures away to this tax-raising toerag?

Still, I suppose Obama had to get a loan off someone now that Tony Rezko’s in jail.

Steve

America. You can only surrender once.

Leonie

I love this from Jill (October 25th, 2008 11:02pm):

“Reagan's Star Wars Defense Initiative was a boondoggle. Scientists point that out.”

How shaming that an American doesn’t even understand their own history. It was Reagan’s star wars programme that won the Cold War.

The point wasn’t to actually achieve an operative star wars programme but to lure your opponent into trying to take you on and compete.

The USSR did. And that was what broke its back.

Luckily for the USA, Ronald Reagan refused to listen to some of the weaker voices around him who thought the way to tame a bear was to talk sweetly to it.

Instead he got the USSR to see if they could flex their financial muscles with a defence programme to rival star wars. And it broke them.

Reagan wasn’t a scientist, Jill, so he knew he wouldn’t break Russia with science. He broke them with political manoeuvring so that people like you could have the freedom you enjoy today to beat up on him at your leisure. The irony being that if the USSR had won you’d even know what such freedom was like.

The purpose of star wars wasn’t to fly about like Luke Skywalker but to show your opponent you meant business and that you were in it to the end. That’s the way it was with the USSR and the way it will be with the jihadists. That’s the only language these people understand.

Is this what the mainstream US media has reduced people to? People like Jill slagging off people like Ronald Reagan for securing her safety and her future?

America, what is going on?

When the Rev Jeremiah Wright says: “God damn America”, it’s only meant to be a cuss word.

You’re not actually supposed to follow it as an instruction.

Bill Thompson

America is an experimental nation, begun in 1776, refined in 1789 with the implementation of the present constitution. This documents stipulates that the individual is supreme, and not the state. In fact, the state exists in order to protect the rights of the citizens. The US is a nation of laws, not of men. It is based on individual freedom and responsibility and not on collectivism. Few nations in the world have systems like this, thus there is much misunderstanding in the world concerning America, its leaders and how the Americans choose their leaders.

Americans reluctantly entered World War I and World War II. What would the world be like had the Americans had not had the will or the power to affect the outcomes of those conflicts. Who had the power to stand up to the expansion of Communism in the post World War II era. Was it right that the USSR, China and the doctrine of communism was oppossed. America could no longer sustain its isolationsim: the communists specifically targeted the US as its prime enemy and fully believed that America would become a communist nation. (Historical determinism, etc). Now there is a religion that fully expects all the world to accede to its commands. They are not just talking. They put bombs on commuter trains in Madrid, in subways in London, in clubs in Indonesia and they fly airliners (after cutting the throats of the crew) into large office buildings. This, too, is because America is the prime enemy, the most important country to destroy. Will any other country stand with America in resisting this latest incursion? If so, do they have any means to do so?

Here are the people that we can count on to fervently wish for an Obama victory: Hamas, Hezbollah, Al Qaeda, the Taliban, the Chinese Communist Party, Putin, Snoop Dog, Louis Farrakhan and Larry Flynt, the pornmaster (who is not making a porn movie starring a Sara Palin lookalike).

But that's our system. (I'm an American). It has its faults. The nation's fate is in the hands of its voters. I pray that our Sovereign God lead the voters in selecting the right leader. (By the way, amongst regular church attenders/people who pray, the voting pattern is about 67% for the Republicans. Amongst those who have no religion, the support is about 70% for the Democrats...)

Bill Thompson
Norfolk, VA

Agrippa

What is often overlooked is the revitalized state of the US military. While Bush took the hard road to achieve the most difficult goals, he struggled to do so because of a diminished US military. He had to go through an untold number of commanders, and has now sharpened the sword.

Those who question Palin's ability to fill McCain's position should he step aside - consider that she will have advisers and generals of the highest order to ensure her effectiveness. She will also have superior instincts.

Obama on the other hand would likely dismantle these assets, and elevate unacceptable advisers - instituting policies that would resemble nothing short of chaos.

Change? when we are finally figuring things out. I can't believe it.

Conservative Cabbie

Verity

The only doubt I would have about Jindal and secretary of state is foreign policy experience. Is he a lawyer? Perhaps Attorney General.

Whatever his role, I agree with your basic point, he is certainly worthy of a serious role within government.

Conservative Cabbie

De Toqueville said:

"Assuming Obama wins, are we going to have to put up with four or more years of internet nutters talking about anti-Americanism, palling around with terrorists, and the rest, or is all that dreck just a campaign tactic? God let's hope so."

rather than the last eight years of Bush Derangement syndrome. we've had liberals crying about how he stole the election, how he's a war criminal or that he's thick.

God liberals can be so blinkered. Hopefully it will mean at least we won't have eight more years of Michael Moore!

Conservative Cabbie

Verity

How about General Petreaus as VP or even SoS. Just a thought.

Texan

Ms. Phillips, there are millions of Americans who also can't sleep at night. We are astounded that such a one... untried in executive decision making, socialist unapoligetically, unvetted in the murkiest of past alliances, and wearing a messianic mantle as though he believes it, stands within days of leading this great nation. I think should it happen, the rest of the world will soon share our insomnia.

Brian from Alaska

America has never had to fight a war on its own doorstep in over a hundred years, and the last one fought here was amongst ouselves. We have had the opportunity to fight on a lot of foriegn soil and have only asked for our dead to be returned so they could be buried at home. We have shed a lot of blood for the protection of the world and our allies and ask nothing in return. If you have a disaster we will help, and again we ask nothing in return. And I will be voting for John McCain as we need a commander in chief.

A most excellent post I might add.

derek

Please, everyone that's freaking out over the prospect of Obama becoming president, just know that I have freaked out twice over the fact that the American public was dumb/ignorant enough to elect Bush for two terms. You had your chance of a more moderate candidate in Gore and Kerry, but no, you voted for Bush. The country was run into the ground under Bush's tenure, so naturally you are going to see a more reactionary approach. So, again, for the worry warts, many of you brought this on yourself by electing the most incompetent president in recent American history TWICE. The only way to balance out incompetence is with greatness.

Dave Morgan

Think the music of John Lennon's Imagine but instead its Imagine Barack Obama

Imagine little Freedom
It's not easy - but just try
No hell below us
Barack in every eye
Imagine all the people
Just living for his grace

Imagine there's no failure
It isn't hard to do
Nothing to kill or die for
Including freedom too
Imagine all the people
Living life this way

You may say that I'm a dreamer
But as dreamers often do
Come stand with Sarah Palin
And fight for freedom too.

Imagine no possessions
Told to share and what to say
No need to work long hours
Only fools would toil that way
Imagine all the people
Just waiting for his hand.

You may say that I'm a dreamer
But as dreamers often do
Come stand with Sarah Palin
And fight for freedom too.

derek

And please cut it with the socialist/Marxist remarks...it holds not water. If it's in reference to Obama's tax plan, McCain was pushing "socialist" ideals in 2000.

Verity

CC - General Petreus for VP. Brilliant! Although he might be better deployed as head of the joints chiefs of staff.

But he obviously has strong administrative experience, and the VP should be someone who can take over from the President. Oh, gosh, I just can't make my mind up on this.

deAne

Melanie, as an American i never thought it possible that we could elect a Marxist, for that is what Obama is. But let's not discount the unprecedented fraud. There is massive fraud by ACORN across the country, that the FBI is investigating, and it seems dishonest people in high places (Sec. of State Jennifer Brunner in Ohio, of all places). I am still praying that we will be able to pull this out. Only a massive response from our side will get us through this!

KITCHENER

All eyes on Pennsylvania...the "keystone State" and the key to victory
Pennsylvania will be the KEYSTONE inMCCAIN'S VICTORY ARCH
Palin will win the Women and "redneck" vote and just as in the summer of "63" at a place called GETTYSBURG...Pennsylvania will help save the Union...Flight 93 went down HEROICALY in Pennsylvania and the road to the Whitehouse leads to 1600 Pennsylvania avenue

American Voter

derek: John Kerry a "moderate" candidate? This is the man who said he "longed for the days when terrorism was just a nuisance."

whatwhatwhat

Obama has never said that he is ashamed of the U.S. He has been clear that his story of success is only possible in America. He has made it clear he will defend America and the democratic values of the Free World. This is more of the same uninformed demagoguery that the majority of Americans have dismissed. We are poised to elect Mr. Obama as President overwhemingly in a landslide and we are going to do it because it is the CORRECT decision.

Jill

I voted for McCain already.

Lou Ellen Brown

Excellent article,Melanie. You have done us a great service with this. I distrust Obama (the Halfrican) on many levels which I suppose covers his actual brazen siezing of the nomination from Hillary and the few remaining normal Democrats.

Verity

whatwhatwhat referring to the annointed one - "He has been clear that his story of success is only possible in America."

Bull corn.

Second generation immigrants to Britain have been succeeding for hundreds of years, as have the sons and daughters of immigrants to Australia and Canada and other countries that AREN'T EVEN ANGLOPHONE!

Lee Kwan Yew, the first prime minister of Singapore, btw, was from an immigrant Chinese family. Prime Minister Disraeli of Britain was from an immigrant Jewish family. So, I believe, is Sarkozy. For sure, it's not a French name, and he is President of France.

You are creepily provincial, whatwhatwhat. Like your creepy hero.

Pol O'Dugan

Israel is not the victim. To say that it is is simply to ignore all evidence.

And to base so much of the case on that flimsy foundation makes it worthless.

Audrey

Amen. To those of us who see Obama and his policies for what they are, this election is like watching a horror movie, where the audience is shouting, "Don't open that door!" but you know the idiot on the screen is going to do just that. "Obama" is a branded myth sustained by enormous amounts of cash and free PR from our MSM. The left that so loves to "deconstruct" everything about Western culture and faith can't seem to recognize their own new religion or their zealous resistance to any deconstruction of their new god object.

Jilly

If Obama wins I blame the media - CBS, NBC, ABC, MSNBC, CNN, NYT, etc. etc. If they had done their job BO wouldn't be ahead in the polls.

BTW, L, I am sort of peach colored. Who should I vote for?

Thomas

The article presents a clear and fresh perspective that's woefully lacking in the slanted American media.

I like NEITHER candidate: each is flawed beyond hope. But politics being what it is, I am forced to pick from a sadly deficient list the lesser of two evils: McCain fits that bill. If you are one of the rare birds who actually thinks cogently these days, you'll agree that's it's necessary to keep expectations low in this election: many Americans do not have the perspicacity to discern style from substance. The culture here thrives on hype, hyperbole, and cliches; we're living in an era of American Idol and reality TV. The campaign, as a result, is more about rooting for our "team" like drunken sports fans than it is about addressing the root causes of the problems we face, illegal immigration being the most insidious. The mortgage mess and resultant financial meltdown may well have grown from a racket of providing mortgages to those who aren't even authorized to live here. The economy, the war on terror, health care, education, the environment, etc. are all impacted adversely by this enormous problem. The borders remain open. We're in deep trouble.

Alley

This is a frist artical that I have read of hers. I can only say keep it up, those tree hugging, hippie, librals need to see that we are hated because of who we are. you can't hug a terrorist and get him to like the USA!

Pamela Young

W-O-W! What a brilliant article written about the election in the United States of America. It is really amazing and quite eye-opening how someone from another country actually sees what is at stake for the USA.

Sonya

Thank you Melanie for writing the frightening article that our cowardly so-called American journalists refuse to write. An Obama Presidency would be disasterous for the entire world, not just America.

Despite what you don't read in the American press, there are many of us Americans working hard to wake Americans up by exposing Obama for what he is.

My thanks to you again for a much needed article

claudia

This is such a succinct understanding of reality...Lord help the United States!!!

joe

i'm ashamed that so much of the most lucid commentary on this election cycle comes from Canada and Great Britain. Wish us luck.

John Birch

whatwhatwhat is exactly right. Obama has overtly promoted American exceptionalism with the notion (that I disagree with) that his story is only possible in America. For Melanie Phillips to say he denies American exceptionalism is further evidence of how full of vitriol she is toward Obama.

steve

Conservative Cabbie: What you say about Obama never rebutting any attacks on Palin is flat out wrong. When it was announced that her teenage daughter was pregnant, he quickly pointed out that this was off limits when it came to politics and that he himself was the product of a single mother. If you want to attack Obama do it on his actual record not a fictional one.

Mike

Excellent article. Well, I'm just one vote for McCain. I hope to God there are many,many more. I just hope that alot of the people who claim to be so adamantly pro-Obama have a second thought before they pull that voting lever.

Deb R

Excellent article! As an American that has already voted, I hope and pray that the people of the US will come to their senses and see Obama for what he is. Be afraid, be very afraid!

Mike

If Obama wins, another Reagan will rise.

joeyb

Melanie,

Rest easy. We, America that is, most certainly will NOT elect this man. This country's next president will be John McCain. Do not believe the hype and polls from the media (it's interesting how conservatives know enough about media bias to dismiss their liberal drivel, but fall head first for the polls which come from the very same people. Something about actual numbers that cause normally clear-thinking people to suspend their normally warranted suspicions of the press).

The press, and the Obama campaign, are pushing the "this election is over, Obama will be elected in a landslide" propaganda because they are trying to influence Republicans, and Independents considering voting for McCain, into staying home on election day. Obama's behavior is often mistakenly described as arrogance (his presidential seal, his behaving as if he's already won the election), but it is nothing of the sort. It is calculated, an attempt to demoralize Republicans and conservatives, because he KNOWS he must cut into McCain's turnout to win. And everything I'm seeing tells me it hasn't, and won't, work. McCain will be elected, mark my words.

amcque

This is the first time I've read the spectator, Melanie, it looks like you have done your homework. I agree completely with everything you've said. It's a pity so many don't do their homework.

JohnW

Obama - the Affirmative Action President.

Sue

Jill, I am also an American and Melanie is NOT an alarmist - she is right on. Obama would be a dangerous POTUS because of his poor judgement in choosing associates, his naivete with regard to defending America, and his belief that we are the ones to blame for the problems, among many other reasons. Do you really believe that our rights will not begin to erode with Obama as president? You can't be serious! Lots of us know this would happen.

I read lots of blogs, get lots of pros and cons, and I still believe he is a puppet.

And Palin? I would feel very comfortable with her at the head of our country in the unlikely event that something happened to McCain. And her experience in any official office is certainly greater than Obama's. The media has been losing a great deal of creditable influence during the last year.

Ken Rufo

I like how American exceptionalism means that American values are superior to tyrannies. It's such an absurd, facile binary, as if the one can only give way to the other, that I almost forget that there's a massive amount of literature about the idea of exceptionalism in the fields of international studies and political science that defines it very differently. Good thing this article is here to help clarify things.

Indeed, for a small while, I was worried that exceptionalism might be a way of describing the "my way or the high way" approach of folks like W in their approach to issues like the enforcement of the CWC, the abrogation of Kyoto, the conduct of the second Iraq War, and the interest in and approval of unilateralism in general. And I might once have thought to myself - wow, this sort of exceptionalist thinking could be counterproductive, even dangerous. But now that I know the only other alternative is that of tyranny, I realize how wrong I was.

Christine Helrigel

Thank you, Melanie. We are being told all the world wants Obama, and we are fighting like crazy to keep him out of the White House. I believe America is going to reject this man by a wide margin, then he is going to be sued for cheating to get the nomination, taking fraudulent campaign donations, and not actually being an American citizen. Thank you for being the Margaret Thatcher of journalism and fighting for those of us over across the ocean who still love liberty and our constitution.

Fisho

My letter is directed to reader response "N".

Take your question and substitute Obama for Palin.

We might be dealing with a VP who requires more experience but overall we should be examining a Presidential candidate who has even less experience than Palin!

Which do you prefer in the White House - little experience or none at all??

TJ

I never heard it told so well. Please keep it up. Of course there are some who want Obama elected just to show his supporters how really screwed up he can make america, and then we'll have a push for conservatism lik no other.

upstateNY'er

Thank you for such an honest look at both individuals, but especially Senator Obama. I am not a fan of John McCain, but will vote for him in defense of the country I love.

A President Obama is the metastasizing of the cancer of hatred in this country by supposedly disenfranchised people - people who ironically could have only gotten to where Obama is now in the great nation of the United States. I seriously pray that people are smart enough to see through the rhetoric to the man who would be "king" and vote accordingly.

Rabbi M

What most people in the West do not understand, is that the call, by the Islamists, to do away with America and Israel is not the result of the great hardships brought upon them by the two countries. It is the result of a fundamental, religious belief that Islam should be supreme over all peoples across the earth. And, America and Israel are an effective deterrent to that goal. Thus, if we emasculate America, and in turn Israel, we are guaranteed that sooner than later the world will, indeed, be ruled by sharia law.

Roger in Florida

Great column as usual. Mel you did not mention Obama's support for Odinga in Kenya, where there is a clear case of Islamist aggression against a democvratic process. Aggression that has included mass murder and ethnic cleansing. It is an aim of the Wahabs to re-establish their caliphate in Africa, Obama seems to enthusiastically support this. This will have no effect however on the US election as there will be no coverage or questions of this and the issues you raise.

Mark from Tennessee

As an American citizen, I can only say that this article is brilliant. If only the 51% of American voters that appear inclined to vote for Obama would exercise the same judgment.

Marianne

Great article! Exactly why I am voting for McCain.
Note to Steve: What "actual record" does Obama have except talking and spending the last two years campaigning? Talk about a Messiah complex!

LNYC

Thank you so much for this. I wish everyone in the US could read this. An an American, I'm suffering from delayed "shock and awe" that we would even CONTEMPLATE electing this man. I'm very afraid for all of us as well.

John K

Barney Frank has already threatened to cut military expenditures by 25%.

Meredith - Tennessee

No. We're not going to do this. The support for Barack Hussein Obama is grossly exaggerated. Hillary supporters are furious. Conservatives are resigned to McCain. Those of us who love our country are working hard to keep the Communist out of the White House. Pray for us. We shall have victory.

Charles

Most of you people don't pay much attention to the way the U.S. government works do you?
The U.S. is not the way it is because of Bush or any of the republicans. The presisent does not make the laws. He cannot by himself do anything. This country was doing fine until the congress changed from republican controlled to democratic controlled. They are the ones that "changed America". And you think that by adding a democrat president that that will help and make things better? Before you judge the country it's best to actually know a little about how it functions first. Adding a democrat president to a democrat congress that wants to change America is not going ti help. We have had quite enough of there kind of change thank you very much!

Hyder Ali

Melanie, You have expressed exactly what I have, nightmares of Obama as President. Unlike me, you are very articulate and able to express yourself verbally. I believe, you have the God's gift. Therefore, please continue to express what I can't and convey our fears to government.

I am a coloured person and a second generation British citizen. Therefore, given very little difference between candidates, I would naturally back a black person as President. And, I admit I am slightly racist in saying that. But, I see Obama as evil and McCain by comparison good.

I am not a supporter of Israel, or Jews. But, Israel is one of the first targets for Islamists. As the old saying goes, 'First they knock on the doors of Jews, then the gypsies, then the disabled, then the socialists, then the dissenters, then anyone who is different or don't fit in with their ideal'. Why do the Muslims/Arabs want to wipe out Israel when the Muslims have already occupied 1000 times the area Israel has? It demonstrates extreme intolerance from Muslims. The West abandons Israel at its peril. The Western countries hope if you feed Israel to the Islamic crocodile, then, the West won’t end up as the next item on the crocodile’s menu.

BW

To N:
Your concerns about Palin are rubbish. You are willing to dismiss the stated national security concerns regarding Obama because of McCain's age and the prospect of a Palin Presidency?

Think before you go to the polls, people! Look beyond the pretty words and rhetoric and look at what is below the surface. I fear that America is being duped and the masses are lining up for the spiked Kool-Aid.

Dave K 1

Good post Melanie. As a young American of 62 who has not lived in America and is voting for the first time, I too see the danger of this Obama the Messiah complex that has gripped the the USA. I have posted a training guide titled "American Voter 101" on the Daily Kos to try an teach the KosKids the facts of voting (see http://www.dailykos.com/user/Dave%20K%201) the American Dream. Some of your readers might want to look at it

Mary

Very well-written article, the sad thing is that the press in America are for the most part ignoring these very vital issues. I fear for the future of our country.

Oklahoma

Bill Hopkins, Juneau, AK USA

I wonder how it is that some Brits see and articulate these evident facts, and so many in the US are evidently clueless!Thanks.

amfortas

Vote #1 Amfortas.

To restore the American Character and Integrity. Restore Values. Restore Morality. Restore Truth and Justice and Equality before the Law. To eradicate Corruption. Eradicate Cultural and Ecomonic Marxism. Eradicate Feminism. At every level.

Aaron

Actually, your rhetoric is ludicrously divisive in exactly the way you purport to condemn.

You make claim after claim as though you have a direct view of Obama's psyche, but what follows each time is speculation and assumption.

"For Obama, however, the real source of evil in the world is America."

I don't claim to know his mind. But I would bet my life savings that Obama, reading that, would be just as offended as I was.

I also don't claim to know the totality of evil in the world. But I know that some of its agents are deception and divisiveness. You twist words to your advantage on his stance on Iran. You quote disreputable sources in order to further opinion over fact.

The "astounding observation" you present from Daniel Pipes, that Obama would "fail the standard security clearance process for Federal employees," is among the most ludicrous of statements I've read in years.

Common sense tragically belies the audacity of the attack. Obama IS a federal employee. He has already had to undergo the security clearance process, and was apparently successful. He is a U.S. Senator.

He also meets all the constitutional requirements to become the President of the United States of America. When I count my blessings tonight, I will add to them the fact that you are unable to vote against him.

Verity

Aaron, defending the indefensible, Obamarama, writes: "don't claim to know his mind. But I would bet my life savings that Obama, reading that, would be just as offended as I was." If you would bet your life savings, old thing, you are absolutely positive you know his mind. Petard. Own. Hoist.

Tim

Why is it that someone half way across the world "gets it" but the American media and press along with many of my fellow citizens will vote blindly on Nov. 4 just to get back at Pres. Bush?

Michele

Melanie,

Will you come to our country? Our "Journalists" are too busy getting thrills up their legs over Obama to report anything of importance about his background. Oh, sure, we've learned everything about Joe the Plumber, but about Obama? Not so much.

Katie Couric needs to go back to cooking segments and Keith Olbermann should stick to football.

We need discriminating, curious and intelligent journalists like you. Please.

Today, we have the most uniformed citizenry I've ever seen, all thanks to the so-called "media."

pat

Facts, truth, history, are just
so yesterday.....we need CHANGE,
we have HOPE, get in line, go
oh-um-um-um...........

Really, you use things like information, and data, and reality to make your point. Duh, that doesn't fit into a
60 second You Tube bit, or Jon
Stewart bite, how do you text message your column quickly?

No bother, I'll check Daily KOs,
and they'll set me straight on you! They are never wrong!

McCain has run one lousy campaign, & matching funds was
a stupid decision. Without Palin, he'd be w/o any hope.
His 1% chance still exists. I pray it can happen....praying,
will that be allowed after Jan. 09'?

If it were all Bush hatred,
McCain would be 75 points down. He is not. It's the economy, and the 24/7 media driven 'we're
in the new depression/recession'
hysteria we've been fed for 3 years. Long before the mortgage
meltdown, it was all bad, all the time.

No worry, after he wins, the
media will do what it did w/Clinton...all good news, all
the time. Amazingly, our consumer confidence will inch up
w/the lack of 24/7 gloom & doom.
Though, our tough times will continue. We're such wimps aren't we?

I may not like the Democrats
winning, but it happens in our system. However, I am disgusted
with the fact our news media has
failed to report and investigate
Barack Hussein Obama, and Joe Biden, with equal fervor and intensity delivered to Sarah Palin and John McCain. To have
entire periods of Obama's life
washed over, unreported, ignored, is pathetic.

We're voting for a man we know
only what Oprah and his publisher and MSNBC has allowed
us to know. Shame on us for
letting that happen.

Redistribute my money to a slacker, appease and apologize for being America to the world,
dole out cash to be liked by the
world, and let Nancy & Harry run
the govt. while Obama does his
Victory Tour-Palooza being cheered.

I need a drink.

Bill Code

'what follows each time is speculation and assumption.'

couldn't have put it better. utter tripe. Like Obama's politics or not, don't start making things up.

Ines Flax

not one speaks more clearly and disects the jungle mumble in the press than YOU!

Thank You for your clear vision & Mind.

God Bless us

pat

Do you really think Joe Biden
could step in and be President?

He of the hair plugs, teeth whitening, a medical record which left out his brain test
results (from his past brain
surgeries), thinks FDR was president in 1929, tv was around
in 1929, made racial slurs about
Indians & donut shops, called
Obama a 'clean' black man,
got caught cheating in college,
plariarized in his past campaign, and was for the Iraq
War before he was against it.

I'll take Palin, on the job
training - quick study , that
she is.....over Joe any day.

phil

Hyder Ali-well said sir -although I am ambivalent about Obama,I like MCcain but fear his age and his VP ,

-Your words are not racist in the least it is a perfectly natural feeling to lean towards the people you are closest to,but real people exercise control and common sense and that you have done -you are a true Brit.I raise my hat to you .

Ray Newman

As an retired American military man your evaluation of the damage an Obama presidency will do is chillingly accurate. But I fear the general public is too enamored of the first black man to run for president to see beyond the viel to the rel man. Worse luck for America, and the rest of the Western world.

Gene A. Russell

As a retired Air Force officer, I do appreciate Ms. Phillips' ability to articulate American strategic objectives--taking the long look at things. I wish she was published in every American newspaer. We need her prspective.

Hayward

Charles,
Where have you been since 1994, the year that the Republicans led by Newt GIngrich and Tom DeLay and the "Contract with America". Then the GOP gained control of the House and Senate only losing it in 2006.
There has been a 2 term GOP,from 2000 until the end of this term President, G W Bush and Administration. In fact the GOP only lost control of the Senate and the House in in January 2007.
For it is under successive Republican Administrations that both the deficits and the national debt have risen.
President Bush has managed to accomplish yet another unenviable record. That is to beat “The Gipper” in “growing” the deficit and the National Debt. For until now, Reagan in terms 1&2;followed by Bush with 1 term, comfortably held the record for the largest deficits.
In 1981, shortly after taking office, Reagan complained of “runaway deficits” frpm the Carter term in office, that were then approaching $80 billion, or about 2.5 percent of gross domestic product. Within only two years, however, his policies had succeeded in enlarging the deficit to more than $200 billion, or 6 percent of GDP. Under the “fiscally responsible” Republicans, from when Reagan took office, the National Debt standing at $995 billion from the Carter era, by the end of Bush1’s presidency, had exploded to $4 trillion. Clinton managed hold/wind them both back returning the budget to a surplus of some US$280 billion. Now thanks to the Bush and Friends the deficit will be $482 billion in the 2009 budget moving from black to red ink in the order of US$750 billion. Now they intend to add another US$700 billion!
Not forget the US$3 trillion and climbing cost of the Iraq Fiasco and the Afghan Imbroglio. The first conflict since The War of Independence to be fought on credit, as mentioned in the Stiglitz and Blimes book.
National debt, US debt is the amount of money owed by the United States federal government to creditors (bankers) who hold U.S. debt instruments. Debt held by the public is all federal debt held by states, corporations, individuals, and foreign governments, but does not include intra governmental debt obligations or debt held for Social Security.
As of September 2008, the total U.S. federal debt was approximately $9.7 trillion, about roughly $5.3 trillion is non government debt . But when unfunded Medicaid, Social Security, Medicare are added, this figure rises to a total of $59.1 trillion. In 2007, the public debt was 36.9 percent of GDP with a total debt of 65.5 percent of GDP. From 1980-1990 under Reagan and Bush Republican Administrations it climbed as a % of GDP from 26% to 42%. Under Clinton it fell to 35% but is now at c.38%. In 2005 it had gone out by a factor of 9 over the debt in 1980.
Then you can now add to the deficit possibly another US$1.5 trillion thanks to the Wall Street Debacle.
And this has all been caused and come about because since January 2007?

Aaron

Verity: "If you would bet your life savings, old thing, you are absolutely positive you know his mind. Petard. Own. Hoist."

No. Way to presume that you know what is going on in MY mind, though. I'm not positive because I'm not psychic. I simply believe the odds to be overwhelming.

Also, unless you were using a quaint British slur with which I am not familiar, I feel compelled to note that I'm 21.

Finally, excellent choice of the stilted single-word sentence signoff. Scary. And. Effective.

Barbara, Missouri-USA

What a wonderfully written article. There are so many of us in America who cannot understand why anyone in their right mind would even sit down to a meal with this tyrant.

We ask everyone around the world to join with us in prayer that this "change" will not come to pass. Please pray that John McCain and Sarah Palin win our election on November 4.

Eddy

So the folks I assumed to be pitchfork-wielding morons at Mccain's rallies shouting out 'terrorist' every time Obama's name was mentioned actually turn out to be America's most astute political observers? Who'd have seen that one coming?
And there's nothing dubious about Palin 'palling around' (err... marrying) a member of the somewhat anti-American Alaskan Independence Party?

Jonathan

I hugely admire Obama, and very much hope that he wins. Far from being an unknown, we have had a chance to observe and listen to him for over two years, while others have researched his background. To my mind, he represents all that is best about America, including diversity, warmth, thoughtfulness, and inspiration. Reading some of the half-baked, unsubstantiated comments above was a deeply disturbing process.

Alf

Well said Melanie but I fear you underestimate the extent of the conspiracy - surely the communists and the IRA are part of this nefarious plot.

Verity

Aaron - My post stands.

Kramo in USA

Finally, someone in Europe who get's it.

Hayward Maberley

Mr Pulley,
I have taken my time in replying to your rather ad hominem post
If you had paid any attention to my previous posts you would have been aware that most of my travelling was done in my late teens to mid twenties. That was long before my financial luck, as you put it, in my late thirties. Since then I have visited Europe, UK and USA a couple of times and also parts of Asia.
Yes I have bought many books, I also work in an academic library so I read a lot more than I buy. But no red tinted spectacles, just some awareness of the world.
I use, from choice, Apple and is not WWW a wonderful artefact, enabling communication almost instantly around the world.
I am unaware that I am pushing the benefits of “Utopian communism” I enjoy the benefits of what might be called a mixed econo/political system in the Commonwealth of Australia. We also have a much more representative democracy, due to a preferential voting system.
That you regard criticism of US policy under various Administrations, Democrat or Republican as unjustified is an opinion that you are entitled to, as am I to mine. You used the pejoratives concerning the USA and Bush not I . However I am not alone in the world, let alone in the USA, in regarding the current President as probably the worst in history of the USA.
As for the nexus of Neocons and others it is again a difference of opinion. But Halliburton, KBR and Blackwater amongst others have turned the Iraq Fiasco and The Afghan Imbroglio into a very nice little earner what with no bid, cost plus contracts.
I am as opposed to Islamist terr’ists as you are.
You just need to acknowledge who created them and put them on the terr’ist road. They are the bastard offspring of the CIA and the Saudi General Intelligence Directorate midwifed by the Pakistani ISI.
Further more they and their parents were not militant atheists, or of a Marxian/Gramscian/Foucauldtian, to use some of you favourite adjectives, persuasion. It was in fact “God fearing” folk like Reagan, who spawned their existence and was happy to have them roll up to the White House lauding them as “brave freedom fighters”. The Sunni Wahhabi Salafi origins of these “ brave freedom fighters” gives no regard to any other form of political/social organisation as they are all regarded as atheist and secular. Their strange fundamentalist take on Islam excludes all other forms of thought or organisation.
You proceed to call me Howard twice in the last paragraph, but I can understand. I am often called Howard, Hayden, sometimes Haydn. Once even Hubert.
There is a small chapter of Neocons Downunder, they keep me as amused as well.
For they took the result of the last Federal Election very hard. Was then that the late unlamented Prime Mendacious aka The Lying Rodent© Senator George Brandis Lib. Qld(who was from the same party) aka The Man of Steal, aka Deputy Dawg did a Bruce. A Stanley Melbourne Bruce that is. He managed to lose the Federal Election as a Prime Minister and his own seat in Federal Parliament.
Well though not entirely happy with some of the foreign policy statements of Barrack Obama on balance I think I would prefer him to McNasty and the Diva. The GOP needs to go out to pasture for a while and ruminate on where it took and what it did to such a great and wonderful country. There is a lot of work to do back home in the USA, so maybe there will not be quite so many military adventures in the next 4 years or so.
I too wish the USA well, that is best I can say as a non militant atheist!

flo

Obama has carefully tacked to the ‘hard power’ agenda while McCain has in turn nodded towards ‘soft power’.

Obama thinks world conflicts are basically the west’s fault, and so it must right the injustices it has inflicted. That’s why he believes in ‘soft power’

Looks like hysteria has overcome not only sense but proofreading and editing. Let us pause for two minutes silence to honour the death of this writers ability to reason.

Young Ed

Did a Brit really write this?

Your own article contradicts itself - "Obama has carefully tacked to the ‘hard power’ agenda" and "Obama thinks world conflicts are basically the west’s fault, and so it must right the injustices it has inflicted. That’s why he believes in ‘soft power’ "

If you can't get your own thoughts straight in your own article, how can you hope to be able to think straight about whether the invasion of a sovereign state (Iraq) is an inflammatory action.

And need I remind you of the dangerous Islamic connections of the current presidency to the influential Bin Laden family? The same family that spawned current Villain #1?

These would be amongst the self-same people that were amongst the only people allowed to fly in US airspace in the aftermath of 9/11?

You are suggesting that we keep our troops in areas that they are often not wanted?

And you have the audacity to call someone as progressive as Mr. Obama, who is willing to try and sort out the situation without using the last resort of armed force 'anti-american' and a surrender monkey?

I am at once both astonished and ashamed of you Melanie.

mark

this article is utter nonsense and blatant obfuscation - but what do you expect. you've had exactly the policies you're clammoring for. 8 years of Bush, remember? i know you don't want to be reminded, but where did that get us? what do we have to show for it? NOTHING, in fact so much less than nothing. our grandchildren will pay for republican incompetence and hysteria. and btw, how come Bin Laden is still at large?

alexlondon

Melanie's analysis that "McCain stands for American exceptionalism... Obama stands for the expiation of America’s original sin" may or may not be true. (I don't share her view.)

But even taken at face value it doesn't support her defence of McCain. Exceptionalism is no better premise for policy.

Exceptionalism (in this context) is justification not to listen. Lack of listening is a significant factor in many of America's woes (discredited economy, discredited military, discredited moral authority).

Whether you like the Democratic ticket or not, it is myopic to claim the republicans 'get it'.

But I suspect those who disagree aren't listening.

Chris

Are you people serious??? Regardless of your beliefs or political persuasion, this is a HORRIBLY written article that shows clear bias...she makes blanket statements about Obama's positions with no quotes or evidence to back up her claims and oversimplifies every world issue she discusses so that it seems that our leaders may only deal in absolutes...it's pure garbage, an op-ed piece from a conservative, nothing more...may as well have been from Limbaugh or Hannity...

phil

Aaron for a 21 years old you show a remarkable lucidity in your comments and a brain far to big for your fragrant opponent .you will never stop the nonsense she writes and she will never accept that the Americans prefer Obama ,she thinks she knows better than the majority-well think is rather flattering I know -she produces so much info on all that is bad about him but never shares with us how she gets it -she just states it .MY personal choice is a little right of centre,but the candidate that might reflect my own views is not up to scratch(in my opinion )so as I have said here numerous times, we only have a choice of two.At your age you have many more years left than me so I trust you will keep up the good work and stand for common sense .

TCRaymond

America needs to go back to basics. We need strength, as British Professor of Knowledge and BBC Analyst Bill Oddie says: America needs a man who knows not the future but what's coming just around the corner.

Christopher

They say you get the politicians you deserve, God help the rest of us. History is bunk (Henry Ford) which is why Americans have to have another mortgage crisis, the sixth since the Civil War. Why the Republicans get the blame escapes me do Americans really think that erosion of credit checks to assist underclass is part of Republican agenda, lets get real.

Janice Young

What evidence do you have of what Obama thinks or feels about this country? Based on the McCain campaign and the right-wing's propaganda? The fact that Obama cares enough about America to carefully choose a capable experienced VP candidate as opposed to McCain pandering to disappointed Clinton supporters and presenting a candidate a day after he met her says tons. But please point out one speech, one statement on Senator Obama's website, on statement from any interview that supports anything you are saying. Just one!

marcus

im an american, and a former democrat, and now an independant, and I just voted in early voting, and WROTE IN HILLARY CLINTON,, i tried and tried to vote for either obama or mccain, but just couldnt do it.,
Even though i know hillary wont be out next president, i had no choice but to vote my conscious, and after i wrote her name in and voted FOR her, i can now sleep well at night..

At least that is until one of the two on the ballot wins, then god help us..
You need another american in england for citizenship? Ill come on over and watch the US get destroyed from across the pond,, sad to say it, but you can stick a fork in us,, we are done.

Suzanne

Hello

Great article! Does America really want to do this? Well, apparently there are enough out there to be fooled by Obama. Personally I am not. I am afraid for my country. I am voting McCain yet I fear it's useless.

America has changed. I can only summize that the majority of folks who are voting for Obama are simply wanting any President different from George Bush. The danger is.. they are so desparate that they'll blindly accept any change.

Didn't some country go through this before? Didn't some unknown political figure promise change and took over when everyone wanted a change?
It did happen in the 1940s Germany.
This is scary. I'm not claiming my country is the best, but what I'd like is to continue upholding the principles on which my country was founded.

I am afraid that is about to change.

God help us.

Those who forget the past are condemned to repeat it!

DM

"we're better than the nations in Europe." I'm sick of the elitist American mindset. we have issues, there are problems, we're NOT perfect. There are other GREAT NATIONS out there. Our minds are just so filled with the American lie that we can't and will not allow our eyes to see it. Sweden, Norway, and Iceland all rank higher than us in every way except military, which is something that im ashamed that we rank highest in. oh and we also rank highest in military spending.. lets grow up. Waving big guns all the time is childish. vote obama. and I'm NOT black.

Concerned American

Great article Melanie. We need your journalism in the American press!

As an American, I am appalled at the thought of an Obama presidency and what it would mean for America and the rest of the world. Obama's core belief's are polar opposite of that of "Main Street" Americans, yet so many Americans fawn over every word he speaks. Obama's words are a beautiful, but they are a shell; they are empty, hollow. In an attempt to win the election, he appeases everyone and refuses to take a stance on anything controversial. He promotes an America that values entitlement instead of hard work. He appeals to Americans that blame the government for their circumstances instead of seizing the freedoms and opportunities in front of them.

susan

Melanie, though you are allowed your thoughts-Bush hasn't managed to take away freedom of the press yet....I think your 100% wrong and and your thinking very flawed. Personally I agree with Realist, those thoughts are more correct. Like those comments about Obama, I will be moving to New Zealand should Mccain get elected. And by the way, our real country ended 8 years ago people!

fellow traveller

Suzanne: "Didn't some country go through this before? Didn't some unknown political figure promise change and took over when everyone wanted a change?
It did happen in the 1940s Germany."

Rubbish.

If you give one serious, sensible parallel, with evidence, I'll shut up. It's insulting to the political opponents murdered by the Nazis when you compare your disappointment with their sacrifice.

You might not like Obama, but that doesn't make him Hitler. Or, indeed, the antichrist.

PS Nazis: that's the 1930s. The third reich didn't begin when the US joined the war.

Hayward Maberley

Christopher,
"Why the Republicans get the blame escapes me do Americans really think that erosion of credit checks to assist underclass is part of Republican agenda, lets get real."
Reality has something to with Republicans being in control of both the House and the Senate from 1994-2006. Having a Republican Administration from 2000 onwards. Having outdone the Gipper concerning both budget deficits and National Debt. Having The Fed under Greenspan allowed to make credit ever cheaper, which even Greenspan finally has had to admit was a big mistake. Having the SEC under a Bush appointee, Cox, let the now Infamous Five off the leash of responsible fiscal and fiduciary behaviour. Having now to by US$250 billion worth of shares in a range of banks, in effect having a controlling interest in the banks. Having to put up US$700 billion or more as a rescue package for the institutions that got where they are now from sheer greed.
So it was not Republicans who are responsible?
Oh but of course this is a "faith based" administration, so obviously all that is needed is some more "faith" and all will come good in the end.
No need for reality.

Augustus

By comparison to the radical Obamas, Hillary and Bill now seem fairly normal. If the Obamas run America God forbid! You will come to wish that McCain, or even Hillary, were President. At least they are somewhere in the middle of the road with the rest of you folks. To the right or left of centre, certainly, but in the middle nonetheless.

Fay Dicker

A comprehensive and ultimately ominous forecast of the "nightmare" scenario that an Obama presidency would augur for the U.S. Obama's seemingly inevitable win is indicative of the state of self-hypnosis and self-delusion rampant among voters, which will unalterably change the country as we have known it since its independence from British colonialism. His agendas, as so perspicaciously and copiously enumerated will exhibit weakness and encourage our enemies that the U.S. is vulnerable to attack on our shores and overseas. Even erratic, McCain would be eminently more qualified to lead the nation and the free world.

Iwekani M

Please, understand that the world has changed and it is time for this country we all love to reinvent itself, economically, socially and politically. It will take someone with a broaden view of issues and the world to formulate the right VISION. Look at what happen to the auto industry. For a long time we slept on our laurels and did not see the storm coming from all over. Our GM is now near bankruptcy... Our glory around the world is fading; those who travel know this. I can go on and on but the bottom line here is that we need a new "wine skin". We need fresh air, fresh ideas for a fresh start.

tse123123

Fear of Obama fodder for desperate and hungry right wingers still in denial. Awful and inaccurate portrayals of both Obama and McCain. Reading through the comments is even worse. Shame on all of you for talking yourselves into such tripe.

jdeware

Yep, another case for war...like so many in the last 8 years, you people should try to be a little more creatiive, as we've been hearing this Bullshits either since 2 building collapsed in downtown NY.
I tell you what..
What teh rep have been doing for the last 8 years is to put defense, or rather pre-emtive defense, as a priority other economics.
more their foreign policies isn't helping as it is fueling more hatred than either for the West, and fill up the rank of the terrorists.
i'll vote for obama, because I believe that recreation is over folks, and it's time to get back to business, as obviously the actual strategy isn't working.
I think french president's plan to build a mediteranean union is a pretty smart move, as no country in the middle east with a descent economy can afford to have terrorist on his won ground.
and that's exactly what obama is planning.Build up positive diplomacy with the middle east and help kick start teh economies of those.
That's not an irrealistic approach it has proven to work by the past...McAthur in Japan after WW2 for example...
Anyway for teh English and American who still like the Chuck Norris foreign policy style..I'm sorry to tell you that the pissing contest is over, and that it's time to get back to work..Get real people..
In atime of global melt down...it's no time to play the cowboys..and to put things i their real context...Iran isn't on teh verge to blow up israel..and if they did I don't think israel will ask permission to anybody to blow up their missile infrastructure, as for the supposed omnipresent terrorist roamming undr our beds...we do have a agency called the CIA, that is doing a pretty good job to stop them.
It's time to stop this patriotic non-sens and to be real face to the danger we face.
Just because somalian coast are infested with pirates doesn't mean we need to lunch a pre-emptive attack on somalia...just do like the french who already takled down to pirates ship and freed teh hostages held up with their special forces...and that's teh right approach to guerilla and terrorism, and that's exactly what the usa will be doing starting on january.

fix2008

You made a mistake. First you said Obama went for 'hard power' and McCain showed 'soft power' then you said Obama pushed 'soft power.' Which one is it?

"Obama has carefully tacked to the ‘hard power’ agenda"

"Obama thinks world conflicts are basically the west’s fault, and so it must right the injustices it has inflicted. That’s why he believes in ‘soft power’"

"McCain has in turn nodded towards ‘soft power’."

you lost credibility in my book.

I'm surprised nobody pointed this out to you.

lex

i sure wish you knew what uw as talking about.. because it's been always a fact that democrats and republican have the same patern behavier that defines them... republicans are to step into everyones buisness to profit..a me me me attitude and they only care for the rich.. dem's.. they focus onthe country and so it's easly assumed economy will where republicans will just borrow and screw over the next president.. and if democrats focus on the US.. it means defense as well will be more focused.. maybe even more than when bush was running since i hear it's still very poor...thank god someone stop bush for selling our sea shores to arabic nations.. it could have been much worst..(bushs arabic friend change his mind) people want change.. and mccain is all about the same where he lacks material to talk about.. so he goes down to making fun of obama and attack instead..obama been taking the high road.. i so wanted him to make fun of mccain cause he doesn't listen to what his plan is about.. he shows his lack of learning threw all 3 debates... making obama repeat for him ..poor old mccain

Ajotx

Exceptionalism, proxy/surrogates, nadirs, imbroglios.nexi,Neocon Manachianism,debacles and machinations, "real economy', and "real people". WOW!!! Lotsa fluff, no substance. Hayward, your suit is as empty as Obama's.

BKS

Thank you Melanie for posting such a well-stated article. You definitely get it. I also agree with many of the comments that have been posted in response. The unfortunate reality is that America is getting exactly what they deserve. We've all been hurt by the economic crisis, and so many are thinking (without truly understanding how we got to where we are today) the Republicans are entirely at fault. Since their at fault the obvious fix is to vote for the Democrats. They're swinging the political pendulum because they want the government (Obama) to be the "knight in shinning armor" who comes to their rescue to save them economic hardship. It's shame we're all going to pay a very steep price for that "salvation". It's going to cost us very deeply indeed. Radical Islam will NOT stop until we have either been destroyed or have converted to the "true faith". There is no middle ground with them, and the only countries (to this point) who have really never waivered in their opposition against them is the US and Israel. If Obama is elected, we are all in a lot of trouble folks. That's what's going to come back and haunt us.

Kathryn

Ms. Phillips you are spot on! I hope that the voters in the USA wake up and see as clearly as you do before November 4. Otherwise we will long to be a colony again.

Holdingmybreath&afraidtolook

Good God...I think we Americans have lost our collective mind if we elect Obama.

Robin

Don't blame me....I certainly did not vote for Obama but did cast my vote....Guess it won't be long if Obama's elected before we in America will be censored in comments such as these..... May YHWH bring peace to Jerusalem and show mercy to the innocent worldwide in the midst of judgment....By the way N, I believe Palin would definitely drive a hard line of defense and stand in support of Israel. She's a straightforward, no nonsense, blunt type of gal fueled on good, solid conservative values borne out of truth and righteousness.....

TallahasseeJacky

I take exception to the following comment: 'As I have said before, I do not trust McCain; I think his judgment is erratic and impetuous, and sometimes wrong.' John Mc Cain was the darling of the media in the Primaries, but now that he is the Conservative Candidate against the media's Liberal, Liberal, Socialist candiate Obama. They call him erratic unsure of himself. And you seemed to have bought it. The one thing you need to know is the first thing he and Palin said when they accepted the Republican Party Nomination was, 'they believe in an Un-divided Jerusalem!!' No other candidate has said those words.
Shalom

Fernao de Magalhaes

Melanie:
Why is it that you can see this when a bunch of Yanks can not. They are mesmerized by B. Hussein Obama.

Obama is the New Hitler

Yes, they are going to do it. This fascist is going to be President. He is going to deliver on his pledge to destroy Israel and turn America Communist. His followers have bullied and kidnapped and cheated like Nazis, which is what they are.

As we should've learned by now, there's only one way to defeat Nazis, and only one thing they understand. I will say this: to all those who collaborated in this evil, especially Hollywood and the leftist media, there will be a price.

Charles K.

As a black conservative (one of a very few), I am absolutely scared of an Obama presidency and all of the socialism it will bring. Great piece though. And every word is correct, and frightening. Let's pray for the best.

Judith in NJ, USA

Thank God for a voice of reason in what used to be known as England ("going, going, gone"). Thanks. Melanie Phillips.

Obie in Chicago

News just broke today, on the eve of the US election, that the Syrians have massed 3,000 additional troops on the border with Lebanon, plus heavy equipment.

If Mr Obama does indeed win, he will be stunned, entering the US presidency with a level of familiarity with international and national issues far behind those of Gordon Brown and Nicholas Sarkozy in the UK and France.

Obama appears to speak of world affairs as though the world has remained static since 2003. His refusal to admit the success of the US troop surge in dealing with Al Qaeda in Iraq as a menace to Iraqi safety is telling.

It is hard to tell both how much he stands for deep principles, such as the freedoms underlying modern democracies, and how profound his views of the world outside US borders really are.

The Los Angeles Times has refused to release video footage of Barack Obama applauding at a 2003 event for Rachid Khalidi when a speaker compares bin Laden to Israel in morally equivalent fashion. This on grounds of journalistic principle, mind you.

Ironically, Obama and his supporters have been so belligerent with adverse viewpoints that they have been nicknamed "the digital brownshirts" by some. Ironic, because the US has had such a strong tradition of freedom of the press and freedom of expression, and particularly from the political left in recent decades, yet the Obama campaign and his supporters appear to have frequently resorted to bullying those who would criticise them (e.g. abortion survivor Gianna Jessen).

JoAnn

If any of you believe in prayer, please pray for our country. I believe that this election is as crucial to our future as the Lincoln-Douglas election. Who knows how much longer slavery would have been around if not for Lincoln's (a Republican) win?

British Texan

Melanie: Thank you!
Thank you for your deep understanding of Obama's foreign policy blunders. I am an American that also has British citizenship because of my English father. You bring hope to me that there are more in England that believe Obama is a disaster waiting to happen. Please continue to write; for your country and ours.

CK

Kudos to Melanie Phillips for seeing the big picture. As we enter tomorrow's most critical election in our nation's history, I look back 29 years ago to the date when Americans were taken captive in the US embassy in Tehran by their Iranian militant captors. As a 13 year old, I recall the images of a country held hostage and a pathetic president emasculated before the world. While the analogy is never perfect, I see too many parallels which reflect the second coming of Jimmy Carter (undoubtedly the worst US president in the lifetime) in the psuedo-deity, Barak Hussein Obama. His foreign and domestic policies, selection of judicial nominees,
will create irreparable damage to this great land for all time. While McCain may think he's the second coming of Ronald Reagan (not by a long shot) and certainly isn't my first choice for a conservative candidate, I'm reminded that I'd rather vote for an Imperfect Republican than a Perfect Socialist. On the eve of the most consequential election in modern world history, my fellow Americans, I urge you to get on your knees and pray like you've never prayed that the true silent majority will go out and outvote the Kool Aid drinking Obama loving zombie electorate. Lest we not repeat history 30 years ago this month in a place called Jonestown.

Heather

Melanie, from America, thank you for speaking up against this. It is incredulous to me that someone with these views has made it this far, but our media is so biased, if not for the internet, and talk radio, there would be no voice in this country against Obama right now. Appreciate your article.

Regards,

Heather

David

A very unbalanced, nay, almost hysterical rant, dressed up as erudite commentary. Virtually no evidence is presented for these allegations. Is is possible to believe that the GOP election team missed these matters when they were formulating their attack ads?

Even McCain has described his opposite as a decent and patriotic man.

And fancy having this article cited approvingly at Rush Limbaugh's website. Really that does take the cake!

50's Kid

Sorry, but there ARE similarities between Obama and Hitler in 1930’s Germany.
I won’t bore you with the obvious parallels of another hypnotizing, empty rhetoric spouting, charismatic Messianic leader, who took over at a time of great economic and social crisis. One German recalled, after the war, that during one of Hitler’s speeches, people looked around at each other and said that everything that this man was saying was complete nonsense. By then, of course, it would not be prudent to make such sentiments too public. Hitler and his henchmen had ways of silencing his critics.
America has not reached that point, but we have started on the long spiral downward…
Joe the plumber dared to ask a simple question of the Messiah, a.k.a. the leader, or der Fuehrer, and he was immediately and illegally investigated by the Gestapo, a.k.a. main-stream media and Ohio bureaucrats, for every little problem in his life, with the illegally obtained results being spread all over the news by the Gestapo’s propaganda arm, the MSM.
It is a classic case of attacking the messenger, which is a sure logical sign that the messenger has found some truth that the attacker would rather keep concealed.
A television journalist in Florida dared to ask the Messiah’s second-in-command a difficult and legitimate question, and she and her station were no longer granted access to the Messiah or any of his campaign. What is going to happen to journalistic freedom if this charlatan gets into the White House? There will no longer be any reason to hold press conferences. All that is needed will be decrees from on high. The Messiah will speak, and we will all tremble in fear at his words.
Three journalists, whose respective newspapers had just endorsed McCain, were kicked off of the Messiah’s campaign jet, supposedly because of a lack of space, even though three sympathetic journalists took over their lack-of-space space.
What is going to happen to free speech if the Messiah gets into power? It can’t happen here? Uh-Huh.
By the way, Hitler also told his domestic car companies what kind of car they had to make. Sound familiar?
As one of the posters remembered, “…and when they finally came for me, there was no one left to protest.”

Heidi Phillips

Bless you, Melanie!

r mayo

While you believe in American unitary power the distortions that you have stated in Obama's Policy have meaning. It may mitigate the effect of causing untold misery where it is practised.

For example Have you gone to Iraq to ask the Iraqi population whether their life has improved in the last 5 years? Have you heard from the ordinary Iraqi civilian the details of his day to day life or will it change for the better over the next 5. No one knows what may happen but in not speaking to your enemies you may cause more problems than you can solve.

What if John F Kennedy had bombed Cuba and the Soviet Union retaliated because it was pusillanimous to speak with them. Before you pontificate a unitary viewpoint it would be encouraging for you to look at it holistically

Frank

As near a perfect analysis of our situation as I have seen. If our U.S. journalists - and I use the term liberally - possessed your mental clarity and objectivity, it is unlikely that we would be in this mess.

In the interest of looking at the positive side of things: knowing the bias and fanaticism that drives our mainstream news media, and my proclivity to look beneath the surface noise for the facts leads me to believe that the Obamabots are severely overestimating the strength of their hand.

But just in case...please say a prayer for us if you are inclined that way!

Chris

tick tock tick tock tick tock...

Sometimes I feel as though this is just some stupid movie with a proposterous plot about an evil robot or alien running for President so he can 'crush kill destroy' or just eat everyone. Then I turn away from CNN and, with a shudder, go to my new bunker to pray and clean my guns.

Isn't this collective brainwashing unbelievable? It would be super funny if it didn't mean the end of the world.

Kevin

If Obama wins today, and it seems that he will, it will be the first time in my life that I haven't been proud of my country. That so many people would vote for such an unqualified man, with so many questionable associations based on nothing more than the empty rhetoric of "change" is truly sad. You wanted change, you're going to get it. I hope you choke on it.

Terry Damm

Before reading a single comment to this article - lest I be tempted to alter my reaction to it in the slightest - I have to say it is the most aware, the most astute, the most complete and probably the most necessary analysis of the most significant policy consequences of an Obama win that I have seen in print - and I have been reading a lot of U. S. print and commentary this election cycle.

How has all of this perceptivity on the most relevant questions possible been so effectively muted on this continent?

This being 'D-Day', one can only hope that this has had some serious distribution and impact where it will count.

Roy Keane

Holy moly, I hear the raucous sounds of banjos on this blog. I just hope like hell you lot all get sent back to school to learn proper english.

Fredrick A Salzwedel

This was a great informative article. Thank you for the insight. Please read on.

Genesis 12:3

And I will bless them that bless thee, and curse him that curseth thee: and in thee shall all families of the earth be blessed.

My translation: Thank God always for his chosen people the Jewish and protect them. It is just God's will.

Fredrick A Salzwedel

This was a great informative article. Thank you for the insight. Please read on.

Genesis 12:3

And I will bless them that bless thee, and curse him that curseth thee: and in thee shall all families of the earth be blessed.

My translation:

Thank God always for his chosen people the Jewish and protect them. It is just God's will.

rachelle

scary article you have there.
i'm here in indiana, casting my vote today for mccain/palin.

Leslie

Brilliant and thorough analysis. This American has been spending many sleepless nights worrying about this election and exhorting everyone she knows to wake up and see what Obama is about to do to this country, and the world. I voted this morning, and pray that the polls that tell us its done deal are wrong, and McCain will prevail.

Jeff

What a powerful commentary. Can we only pray that Americans do the right thing today and vote with their brains and not their emotions. I am afraid though that the supply of brains in America is on the downward spiral.

JLB

I live in the states....this is a FANTASTIC article on Obama. As one previous poster put it, a lot of things are biased here. When you compare mainstream media coverage of the 2 campaigns, CLEARLY CBS, ABC, NBC, CNN, MSNBC are all supporters of Obama.

These are scary times for the United States because a big part of our society has been taken in by someone who has good oratory skills. Its awful to think what could potentially become of this country.

As far as the poster who makes the comment about Palin being ready to lead the country...can you please name ONE thing Obama has lead other than an ACORN training session? Obama has less executive experience than Palin hands down.

JLB

I live in the states....this is a FANTASTIC article on Obama. As one previous poster put it, a lot of things are biased here. When you compare mainstream media coverage of the 2 campaigns, CLEARLY CBS, ABC, NBC, CNN, MSNBC are all supporters of Obama.

These are scary times for the United States because a big part of our society has been taken in by someone who has good oratory skills. Its awful to think what could potentially become of this country.

As far as the poster who makes the comment about Palin being ready to lead the country...can you please name ONE thing Obama has lead other than an ACORN training session? Obama has less executive experience than Palin hands down.

Julie Grossman

What a joy to read your articles! We here in the US are led to believe that all of Europe hates us and everything we stand for. I, for one, almost had tears in my eyes reading some of your articles for the first time.Thank you for speaking out in behalf of those who LOVE this country, and saying what I would like to SHOUT OUT to those who wish to see America crumble.God bless you and yours, from a worried American on election day.

Elizabeth Verdon

Great article. I am so pleased to see someone with the guts to tell the truth.

I have been afraid of Obama since he won the candidacy and his Svengali like appeal, especially with people who should know better, is frightening. I have to admit I was not going to vote this election because I was tired of people telling me that since I'm black, I should vote for a black candidate.

It's the lesser of two evils for me, and McCain is it. Obama will get us killed, and will not feel any remorse or take any responsibility; I believe that with my whole heart.

This is not the world we lived in on September 10, 2001, it has changed forever. We need to feel safe again and we need someone who understands that talking to dictators is not the way to go. As my grandmother used to say, you cannot make sense out of craziness.

Philip Quinlan

It is my belief that it is impossible to simultaneously be intelligent enough to come up with this insane line of argument and to believe it.

Have you, perhaps been drawn so far into a sophomoric debate that you fail to analyse your position?

I believe both individuals applying for the position of POTUS are patriots.

However there is only one of them who I see being a possible uniter of the global community.

Only one who can persuade nations other than the British poodle (Stop kidding yourselves, the bulldog is long gone) that America is on the side of right.

And only one who presents a vision that could see us through the times ahead.

I am glad that candidate won.