Tuesday, February 5, 2008

I did

I have returned from my neighborhood polling place, delighted to have seen it bustling. In today's Democratic primary, I voted for Barack Obama.

Over the past several weeks, my friends and I have discussed and debated the merits of the various Democratic presidential hopefuls. Among us, I am one of the few who decided finally to vote for Obama. Here's why: On most matters of substance, both Senators Clinton and Obama have similar or, in many cases, identical policy positions. They may differ in their tactics or "plans", but I would feel comfortable supporting either in a general election.

I admire Senator Clinton a great deal and respect her experience. She is incredibly poised, well spoken, clearly intelligent and passionate. But after having heard her speak on several occasions, I did not feel that passion. She did not completely make her vision for America into mine.

Senator Obama did, from the very first time I heard him give a major speech, at the Democratic Convention four years ago. His intellect and experience are one thing, but his words, his power of oratory are quite another. As a writer and as an individual involved in the theatre, I know the power of words to change worlds. Deeds are necessary, but words are catalysts. This is no small thing, not a superficial distinction. It is the reason I was far more inspired by and hopeful for a Bartlet presidency than a Bush one. But is one thing to have benefit of both poise and good writers. It is another to be able to take words and transform them into hope.

This country needs a sound economic policy. This country needs a path away from war. This country needs well-compensated teachers, well-fed children, and well-employed workers. This country needs the equality of its promise in practice. But what America needs, more than any of these things, is hope.

If you're in a state holding a primary today and you have not already, go out and vote. Vote for the candidate who gives you hope, whomever that may be. For me, it is Senator Barack Obama.