I didn’t vote for Barack Obama in 2008, because I detest our 2-party system. So for nearly as long as I’ve been voting, I’ve voted for the Libertarian or an independent candidate as a vote against the big two. My stance on social issues – especially women’s issues and gay rights – are reasons why I could never vote Republican on a federal or state level. I was glad that Obama won, and happy for the progress made by having someone other than a white male running the country.
I felt sorry for President Obama in 2008, because I saw that there was too much unrealistic hype placed on him, and knew that no one could change the country that much in such a short time – especially since the economic crisis is global, not just in the USA. I didn’t foresee then how difficult the Republicans in Congress would make it for him to do anything at all.
In the past four years, he has grown on me. He shows emotions unlike any president I can remember – which some may say is a sign of weakness, but I see it as a sign of sincerity. Having a balance between emotion and reason is something each person should strive for, and he demonstrates it well. He’s also demonstrated personal accountability, which is sorely lacking in our culture. I also am fond of the way his relationship with his wife and children seems genuinely loving. At this point in time, he seems like the politician who has come closest to actually representing what I believe.
I am curious to see what will happen now that he is no longer seeking re-election and has greater support in Congress. I hope that he will take the opportunity to present some real reform – especially in the Election system, finances, and in the Tax codes – that will make the system more fair for individual people, and be less in favor of corporate interests and wealthy shareholders.