Gen Powell endorses Obama

This morning on Meet The Press, former Secretary of State and former Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, General Colin Powell announced his endorsement of Barack Obama. Among his reasons he cited the following: He viewed Barack Obama as a transformational figure who was the right person to lead the country at this time. He pointed to Obama's ability to inspire others both here at home and around the world. He also cited Obama's steady temperament and sound approach to problems as evidenced by his conduct during this financial crisis. In contrast, he characterized John McCain as being erratic and not as prepared to deal with the economy as Obama. Although he was quick to praise John McCain personally and cite their long friendship over 25 years, Powell was most critical of the Republican party and the McCain campaign strategy. He characterized the party as being narrow and non-inclusive. As for McCain's campaign,exhibit number one, the negative William Ayers campaign, Robo Calls associating Barack with terrorists, and spreading false claims about Barack being a Muslim. Powell even told a heart wrenching story about a young Muslim who died as a soldier for the American Army to further make the point that Republicans shouldn't be demonizing Muslims generally. Powell also stated very clearly that Sarah Palin was not prepared to be the Vice President. He also referenced the selection of Palin as evidence of less than sound judgement by McCain. I couldn't agree more. The recent Tina Fey skits on Saturday Night Live, while very funny, sadly speak the truth.

While partisan Republicans will discount Powell's endorsement as one black man supporting another, this will simply be another attempt to distort the truth and deflect attention from the real reasons for Powell's endorsement. When asked this question, Powell correctly pointed out that if Barack Obama is elected president it will be an historic event about which all Americans can be proud. We will find out in a few more weeks.