Obama’s election to the most powerful political office in the world marks a sea change in both global and personal politics. It has realized and renewed the potential of the American project.
Obama’s visionary and intelligent campaign refused to devolve into scurrilous arguments and mud-slinging. His victory has transformed the American political climate—the speeches of McCain and Bush are early evidence. John McCain capped his campaign with a classy and rousing speech that underlined his excitement for his country’s potential and his respect for the obstacles faced by his opponent. This last high-profile act of his political life provided a lofty example for the often disobliging Republican audience. Bush’s post-election speech was respectful and enthusiastic for the uniquely American dynamism and vitality evident yesterday. Obama’s high-minded campaign has set a new standard for non-partisanship and hope for the US.
Kudos to America for once again setting the bar high for the rest of the world. It has been a long time coming.
