Saturday, November 8, 2008

What Will The Obama Victory Mean?

1. The fact that we have elected an African-American President is an amazing thing. No matter what happens over the next 4 (8?) years, this is a positive development that can't be undone. Young A-A children will grow up knowing that it is possible for them to reach any height in this contry. Young white children will grow up thinking it is perfectly normal for an A-A to be President. Racism was dealt a serious blow on Tuesday.

2. It's a positive message to the world. America is a place where anyone can start from humble beginnings, work hard, and rise to the top. We've always said that. We've given the rest of the world a reason to believe that it's true.

3. It is very likely that there will be at least 2 Supreme Court vacancies in the next 4 years. Roe v Wade is safe for now and dangerous expansion of the executive branch will be avoided.

4. We are much less likely to end up in a foolish war in Iran under President Obama than we would've been under President McCain. Obama seems very well equipped to guide the U.S. through the new global landscape.

5. We won't suddenly achieve Utopia. Obama will not be able to quickly fix the economy. I think his plans to invest in the infrastructure, create green jobs, and invest in education will improve the economy in the long-run, but the effects will be minimal over the next four years. Tax breaks will help the poor and middle-class get through the tough times, but the times will still be tough. I think it's very likely that Obama will do a good job, but still face a lot of voter discontent in 2012 due to a weak economy.