While Senator Obama's vote on FISA represents a small portion of his policy stance...its an important part. A part he reminded us of as a unique trait as something he collaborated with Senator Feingold with when he was still battling it out, and one that defined him as he spoke intelligently about FISA and net neutrality.
While I do understand the Senator is in a race for the "Purple States", I think caution should be had on any "moves to the center". Moving to the center, doesn't intrinsically mean curtailing rights central to the beliefs of Americans in the degree that has been made popular during the last Republican administration. In more ways than one this FISA legislation could have a very chilling effect on the freedom of expression of Americans...if not a chilling effect on the enthusiasm and chances of this campaign. As much as I can imagine this is all a balancing act, I would hope Senator Obama will find stability in his most endearing asset - the sense of character, integrity, and conscience that has made so many gravitate to his campaign.
Though I have supported and been enthusiastic about the brand of politics Obama represented since one of my college classmates beamed with pride about him, long before his famed 04' convention speech, I'm feeling a sense of reservation never felt before about this campaign. With this latest nuance on FISA and latest position on Iran, I'm feeling I might need to hold onto my enthusiasm about "spreading the change" both figuratively and literally. As much as I still have high hopes for this campaign, I think these latest developments have tempered my enthusiasm over the last few weeks. I'm going to have to ignore that pretty red "Donate Now" button for a minute, even though I've been itching to toss more into the pot. I already have to put out to FICA...not trying to pay for FISA too.
does that make him an "out of touch cultural elitist"?
