In today's issue of the New York Times was an article, "Obama Goes One on One, Battling 'Just a Speechmaker' Label" (http://www.nytimes.com/2008/06/15/us/politics/15campaign.htm...). The article goes on to discuss Obama's goal of interacting with voters on a more intimate level. As I reflected on the content, I thought about the reasons behind the shift. Why do we, as active voters, exercise our right the way we do?

A couple of hours ago, I was at a party, talking with one of my friends who said she was ready to have a black president, but didn't think this country felt the same sentiments. I was disturbed, but not surprised, since I had heard the same argument in previous conversations. It is not so much that "blackness" itself disqualifies Obama from the highest elected office in the nation, but rather, the fact that he is not one of "us" that may push citizens to vote one way. But, it is not solely Obama's race that has been called to question, but also his upbringing abroad and the rumor of Obama being Muslim (lest we forget the emphasis made by the Conservative Right on his last name). Okay, it's clear that Obama is not Muslim, but Christian. Nevertheless, from my perspective, as a Catholic who is actively involved in the life of my parish, I must question the obsession over Obama's religious beliefs. Congressman Keith Ellison from Minnesota is Muslim-- I don't see how his faith background necessary interferes or hinders his political leadership and effectiveness. Once again, I answer my own question as I recognize the politics of fear come into play. Some will opt not to vote for Obama because of beliefs, however inaccurate, about his race and creed. Likewise, other voters have decided not to vote for Senators Hillary Clinton and John McCain because "she's a woman" and "he's too old," respectively. Unfortunately, even in this age and in this country, racism, sexism, and ageism, are forces to be reckoned with in politics.

Going back to the NYT article: why, Senator Obama, the shift from awe-inspiring speeches to small group settings? The reality is speeches don't win you the presidency. While Obama may have drawn young audiences and voters with backgrounds in formal higher education settings, his public speaking abilities may have also detached him from the average Joe. Simply stated, many voters just want to be able to see themselves in the next president and know that he (perhaps she in the future) can relate to them.

My political preferences are guided by how aligned are the views of a given candidate with my own. Moreover, the candidates of my choosing don't necessarily represent the same party. Unfortunately, our education has many flaws, including its failure to promote political engagement and informed voting practices (recall, suffrage was not always a right). Perhaps by transforming our education system as a start, we, as "United States," can shift from a politics of ignorance and fear, to a politics of hindsight and insight.