The Real Straight Talker: Obama

John McCain Why do so many not trust him that he will certainly lose the 2008 race unless terrorists strike again?
McCain has been part of the problem with government for too long. He stepped into the Keating Five scandal (oddly, as the sole 'Republican'). He sees things in ways that promote John McCain (McCain Feingold) rather than uphold the U.S. Constitution. He is clearly unclear, and admittedly short-tempered, but we cannot tell if these attributes are due to unfortunate disabilities, or intended arrogance.

McCain asserted that US military preparedness is dangerously inadequate, and names specific weapons systems he considered unnecessary, elimination of which
would provide some of the funds needed to modernize the military and increase
preparedness. He said that the C-130 military transport aircraft, the B-2 stealth bomber, and the Seawolf submarine should all be taken out of production. He noted that for years Congress has forced the Air Force to buy more C-130s than its leaders wanted. - Source: Boston Globe, p. A19 Dec 8, 1999

Hillary Clinton Why do so many distrust her that she will lose her own party's nomination?
She lacks the ring of sincerity, she scorns the military and has little use for men. She is the most partisan dilletante we have ever seen aspire to the nation's highest office.

Barack Obama Why do so many connect with Obama, obviouly the least experienced?
He believes what he says, we can tell. He carefully explains his rationale and criticisms in plain speech that resonates with a public he seems eager to unite. Even if he must later adjust to reality, he is principled, intelligent and, like Reagan, able to communicate well. This is the least required of a leader. Clinton and McCain do not have it.

Aug. 1, 2007 - Obama Delivers Bold Speech About War on Terror
In a strikingly bold speech about terrorism Wednesday, Democratic presidential candidate Illinois Sen. Barack Obama called not only for a withdrawal of U.S. troops from Iraq, but a redeployment of troops into Afghanistan and even Pakistan — with or without the permission of Pakistan President Pervez Musharraf.

March 10, 2008 - SOUTH ASIA: CAULDRON OF CHAOS
In the region, the most dangerous threat to US national security emanates from the al Qaeda holed up in Pakistan's Federally Administered Tribal Areas - including Osama bin Laden and his deputy, Ayman al Zawahiri. The US director of national intelligence, Mike McConnell, told Congress in February that al Qaeda still poses a serious threat to our interests at home and abroad, and that its 'central leadership' in Pakistan is its 'most dangerous component.'

Obama may not be that far off the mark. I could like this guy.