For most of us, polarization and partisan division have characterized our entire political lives. We came of age right as America went into a war it never should have started. The political realities for our generation rest in division, fear and negativity, in the choice of politicians to purposely sidestep the Constitution and violate civil liberties. After seven long years, we must take our country back. Barack Obama is ready to provide this needed leadership.
For years, our generation has been waiting for someone to come along who inspires us. We've been waiting for a candidate who can reunite our politically fractured country and bring America back to the principles it was founded upon. We've been waiting for change, because as Obama said, That is our unyielding faith that in the face of impossible odds, people who love their country can change it.""
Obama is ready to change America, not just by inspiring young people, but by bringing much needed change to the tired ways of Washington. As the only leading candidate who opposed the Iraq War from the start, Obama recognizes that we must refocus the war against terrorism on those who attacked us on 9/11, which means ""getting out of Iraq and onto the right battlefield in Afghanistan and Pakistan,"" as he said in August.
Obama recognizes the need for change on other fronts as well. With scandals rocking the D.C. establishment, Obama led the fight for open and honest government by helping pass a lobbying and ethics reform bill in January. With one in three young adults without health insurance, compared to one in six Americans overall, Obama's national health care plan guarantees eligibility for all and allows recent college graduates to remain on their parents insurance until the age of 25 if they cannot find a job.
Obama leads when it comes to making college affordable. His very first bill introduced in the Senate increased the maximum Pell Grant from $4,050 to $5,100, and he is the cosponsor of the Student Debt Relief Act, which is designed to reform the private lending system.
It is time for change. It is time to turn the page on the American story - to write a new chapter. This year, Students for Obama will work hard to fight for that change. We hope to see you tonight at our kickoff meeting at 6 p.m. in 1100 Grainger, where we will be joined by Gus Doyle, the son of Gov. Jim Doyle, who will speak to us about why he supports Obama. We will tell you all about the exciting ways you can get involved on campus and in Iowa so you can begin to write that chapter - your chapter.
In 2008, hope has a new face. Obama for
President.
Andy Gordon is a senior majoring in political science. He is the Chair of Students for Obama. Please send responses to agordon@uw4obama.com.
