Jim Barraud

I’ve been trying to articulate what the election of Barack Obama means to me. At least beyond the knee jerk reaction of “Thank God!”. Surprisingly it’s been the response from some of the McCain supporters I know that have helped me focus on how I feel about this.

This was a historic election. Yes, he’ll be the first black president of the United States of America. But for me, that’s only half of the “historic” part. I grew up with the story of John F Kennedy. All my life I would here from history lessons, tv shows, baby boomers and pretty much anyone older than me about how great JFK was. How it was such a loss when he was assassinated and all the potential he had. He inspired an entire generation. That generation knew that if this country was to move forward, they would have to do their part and not just rely on the government to do it for them. His election was historic not only because he was the first Roman Catholic president, but also because of his ability to inspire a nation.

I’ve always admired that generation’s fondness of Kennedy. I’ve never really felt that for a president. Ever since I turned eighteen and was able to vote, I usually placed my vote with the feeling of “At least he’s not as bad as the other guy” and went on my way. Sure, I felt stronger for certain candidates than others. But there was never that sense of this is the guy I want to lead this country. It was more “I really don’t want that other guy to lead this country”.

Flash forward to the 2004 Democratic Convention. A little known State Senator from Illinois gave a speech that’s still talked about today. I still remember after watching him give that speech and telling my wife “He’ll be president someday.” But it wasn’t just his speech, it was how he delivered it. The conviction in his voice. You could tell he really meant and believed what he was saying. It was free of the bullshit tone I heard from all politicians up till then. It gave me hope.

There’s a lot a criticism centered around the concept of “It takes more than being able to give a great speech to lead this country”. Of course it does. But it also takes more than coming up with policies and signing some bills into law. It’s the ability to inspire a generation of people to come together for the greater good. These are qualities contained within the inauguration speech of John F Kennedy and the “I Have Dream” speech of Martin Luther King. Iconic speeches that inspired generations to deliver change.

If there’s one thing that the majority of Americans can agree upon, it’s that our current sitting President lacks all of the above. His economic policies have placed us in the worst economic situation since the great depression. His foreign policies have damaged our reputation with the rest of the world. And his inability to speak eloquently or conduct himself properly in the presence of other foreign leaders has been embarrassing for our nation.

We had two choices in this election. To continue on the course we’re currently on, with the same foreign and economic policies that have brought us to where we are today. Or change course. Elect a president that not only talks of the need for change, but that can also inspire a generation of Americans to make it happen. A president who’s election will send a message to the foreign community that we as Americans, have had enough. And for the first time in my life, elect a president not only because he’s not the other guy, but because I want him to lead this nation.

I don’t expect Barack Obama to solve all our problems. And I don’t expect to agree with him on everything he does. But what I do expect from him is to make decisions based on sound judgement. To try and unite an already divided country. To be straight with the American people about the issues we face in this country. To heal our currently bruised relationship with the global community. That’s the change I’m hoping for and voted for.

I voted at 7AM. It probably doesn’t need to be said, but today is a historic election. Make sure you vote.

This photo is my submission for the New York Times Polling Place Project.

I was never one to follow politics. My usual mindset was “my one vote doesn’t mean much” and “everything will be OK no matter what happens”. But all that changed once I was married, became a homeowner, then a father. With each milestone, my awareness of the political landscape and how it affected me and my family grew. With the most recent presidential election I’ve become a bit of a news junkie. Keeping an ear out for who said what and how the candidates are reacting to current affairs.

Everyone is aware that this presidential election is an important one. With issues ranging from the Iraq war to our tanking economy, the next president will be inheriting what could rightly be called a cluster fuck of affairs. And with that in mind, the nation appears to be equally divided on the best person for the job. With all that’s at stake and the closeness of the current election, your vote counts more than ever. That is, as long as you’re registered to vote.

Voter registration deadlines are approaching for all 50 states. In my state of New Jersey, the deadline is October 14th. Now is the time for your voice to be heard, but it will go unheard if you’re not registered to vote. There’s no excuse not to vote. Especially now that finding out how to vote and registering to vote is quick and easy.