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Recent newspaper endorsements of Obama, selected for the quality of their writing and the depths of their insights
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Chattanooga (Tenn.) Times endorsed Barack Obama on Oct. 5:
We now face a future fraught with difficulty. It is no time to fear, but rather to change directions and unite behind a dynamic, thoughtful and progressive leader, Democrat Barack Obama.
He has stirred hope among millions of Americans, many of whom were alienated from politics or marginalized in society. He has restored a sense of idealism and promise that American values will again be our respected guide in the world, that the American dream is still very much alive in our nation, and that what is wrong can be fixed.
Sen. Obama's opponent, Republican John McCain, has long served his country, and as a young man, at great personal sacrifice. But he is not ready to lead America in the 21st century. His view of the world is outdated and unduly restricted by a military lens.
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The Durango (Colo.) Herald endorsed Obama on Oct. 12:
The United States faces a pivotal choice in this presidential election, and
the alternatives are clear. What is needed in that decision, as in our markets and our dealings with the world, is to act like Americans and approach the future with optimism. Voters should reject the politics of fear and elect Barack Obama.
Obama offers what America now needs: Confidence without swagger,
intelligence without condescension, a mind unencumbered with the baggage of the '60s, and an optimistic outlook eloquently expressed.
After the feckless leadership of the last eight years, the offer of hope is
beyond appealing. It is essential. We need to restore this country's
position as a bastion of human rights and re-establish respect for the
United States government at home and abroad. We must reinvigorate and restructure our economy, revive the idea that children will be better off than their parents, and face the 21st century with confidence.
John McCain cannot do that. He is intellectually and emotionally trapped in a bygone era. And since his 2000 run, the maverick McCain has been replaced by one with a wet finger in the wind.
Obama, however, offers a clear and certain break with the past. And that is absolutely necessary. It is taking a chance, of course, but that risk is less than that of continuing Bush's work.
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The Commercial Appeal in Memphis, Tenn., endorsed Obama on Oct. 16:
American adults are asking a terrible question as Nov. 4 approaches: Will my children have the opportunities that I was afforded in my youth?
