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Barack Obama answered many questions in Denver. Others still linger about his pursuit of the presidency|
Published on Sunday, Aug 31, 2008
The sight of the Illinois senator, a black man, before almost 80,000 people at Invesco Field in Denver, taking the reins of a major party, certainly qualifies as part of the progress King envisioned. The historic advance shouldn't be lost, as John McCain graciously noted in a television ad. The Constitution calls for a pursuing a ''more perfect union.'' This is such a moment.
That doesn't guarantee an Obama presidency. Racism persists. The candidate must persuade voters that he deserves election. That challenge was foremost in mind on Thursday, doubts continuing about Obama's lack of experience, his soaring rhetoric missing the necessary concreteness. Many Democrats have wondered: Is he tough enough?
Obama pitches change. He was most effective in arguing why Republicans do not deserve four more years in the White House. He pointed to the economic mismanagement, the tax code favoring the wealthy, the puny level of job creation, a budget surplus converted into a growing deficit. Most striking was the withering assessment of the way Republicans have diminished American influence abroad.
For those uncertain about an untested senator, Obama deployed strong words and a strong presence. More, he stressed: Continuing along the current path involves greater risk.
Yet it isn't enough to say: Enough. Obama and the Democrats must sell the concept that they not only understand the changing world, especially in the economic realm, but that they have the policies suited for the moment. In that way, Obama channeled Bill Clinton. He described an ''American promise'' of opportunity and responsibility. He highlighted a familiar list of Democratic remedies, altering the tax burden, advancing toward universal health care, developing alternative sources of energy, improving the quality of education.
What was missing?
For all the impressive rhetoric, Obama has yet to summon key words that matter. He echoed tired pledges. More talk about dealing with the deficit through closing loopholes and eliminating waste? Independence from foreign oil in a decade? Change you can believe in?
In one sense, Americans want change, a large majority viewing the country on the wrong track. And yet, change also frightens, especially in places like Ohio, where globalization rattles nerves. So yes, Barack Obama articulates a more appealing vision of American leadership in foreign affairs. He recognizes the plight of many in the middle class. Missing is a firm grasp of this particular moment. What is required to compete globally, when China and others are surging forward? How will the American promise, or dream, be sustained?
Address those concerns in a smart and compelling way, and Barack Obama will become a more complete candidate of change.
Get the full article here.
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