Obama's 'resolve is steady'
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The sacrifices McCain made for this country helped me overlook his lapses; his infidelity, his close and nearly corrupting friendship with Charlie Keating, his comradeship with Jerry Falwell, and even his absurd devotion to deregulation regardless of the circumstances (or the consequences). But witnessing his conduct during this presidential campaign, I believe I was wrong to have thought so highly of him. The tone he has promoted in this election has demonstrated that maybe the McCain I admired never really existed.
In “The Contender,” Rod Lurie wrote, “principles only mean something if you stick by them when it’s inconvenient.” As his poll numbers have fallen, McCain has adopted an unprincipled “Damn the issues, full smear ahead” method of campaigning. This is the same disgraceful and malicious tactic that the “Karl Rovies” used against him in 2000. Instead of attacking the critical problems facing this country, instead of offering viable solutions that reflect an understanding of the challenges ahead, McCain has retreated to a feral position. McCain and his zinger-slinging running mate don’t blink as they pump up the volume of hate and fear, promoting gross distortions and deeply offensive fabrications. Their inciting rhetoric elicits shouts from their audiences not just labeling Obama as a terrorist and a traitor, but screaming for blood.
How can McCain allow this with its potential for tragedy? This country has witnessed assassinations. Where is his good judgment? Where is his voice of reason? When will he demonstrate leadership? This isn’t just another poor choice by John McCain, it’s a potential disaster. His emotionally divisive campaign will make it difficult to unite the country in this time of crisis. How can we trust someone who does that? I am sadly convinced: This is the real John McCain.
Barack Obama deserves our vote. He knows where I come from because, like me, he didn’t start at the top. Obama’s character is strong, his resolve is steady and his judgment has been demonstrated. He has provided a convincing, rational and well-developed vision for America’s future. He has demonstrated that he is capable of coming to grips with the crisis we face and leading us into the future with both feet planted firmly on the ground. I believe he is a leader who has the promise of greatness. The times are too serious and the stakes are too high to settle for less.
In Virginia, it is clear that this is an election of a different color. For the first time since 1964, instead of voting red, Virginia is on the verge of turning blue. Virginia can be the deciding state in the race for the White House. This is an historic vote. I caution you not to take it for granted. Put your country ahead of politics. Go to the polls and respect the opportunity you have to be the difference.
Kathleen Murphy served as associate staff on the House Appropriations Committee for Texas Congressman Charlie Wilson, specializing in defense and foreign affairs. She also held positions in the Clinton administration. A Northern Virginia resident for 15 years, she is a strategic consultant, writer and self-proclaimed political junkie.
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