January 14, 2008

After a lot of thought, I have concluded that Senator Barack Obama is the best choice for President in next month’s California primary election.  So, I am here today to endorse Senator Obama, and to urge his nomination and election.

After too many years of misguided policies from the Republican party, America needs a leader who can galvanize us for change.   Former President Bill Clinton is simply wrong to say that inspiration and hope are unimportant or a “fairy tale”.    It is vital that America’s next leader succeed in calling forth America’s better self.  This is the critical and essential component to correct the disastrous course upon which our country has been set by the Republican Party.  Far more than the others, Barack Obama has that essential ability.

I have respect for each of the three remaining viable candidates.  But this year, above all, we need inspiration.  We need a candidate and President who will summon us to unity, who will allow us to believe that America is a country whose ideals and principles matter and a country whose exceptional history can once again serve as a beacon of hope for the world.  We want to be proud of America.

Many of you remember my daughter, Sheila, and my son, John, because I gave birth to both of them while serving on the Board of Supervisors.  I was the first California Supervisor to give birth while serving in office.  Those children are now young adults and they have urged me passionately to make known my support of Barack Obama.

Their reaction to Barack Obama reminds me so very much of the reaction young people of the same age had to Bobby Kennedy during his run for President.  Bobby Kennedy’s opponents weren’t bad or incompetent people.  But they lacked the inspiration that the times required.  So it is today.

Today’s first time 18 year old voters were 2 years old when Bill Clinton was first elected President.  In fact, since the election of the first President Bush in 1988, America has had either a Clinton or Bush as President for the last 20 years.  It’s time for a change.

Senator Obama is 4 years older than Jack Kennedy was when he was elected President.  He’s ready to lead.  He is smart and he actually has more years as an elected official than Senator Clinton.  I believe he can inspire a new generation to participate in elections and government and to have hope for their country once again.  He can do more to repair the damage to America’s international reputation than any other candidate.

Just as John F. Kennedy brought a new generation of leadership to America with his election, and just as Bobby Kennedy inspired a generation into public service, Barack Obama has excited the imagination of disillusioned Americans.  Hope is the essential first ingredient to action today.  Senator Obama’s vision for us – as individuals and for America - can lead our way from this troubled time to another bright day in America.

Senator Clinton and I are both baby boomers.  We’ve both got plenty left to contribute to our country in the United States Congress.   But I’m happy now to share the limelight with the next generation.  I’m glad that someone with Barack Obama’s intelligence, leadership and character can be our next President. It’s time for a change. 

..........................................................................................................

Thanks for coming by, and enjoy our site. And if you have something you’d like to talk about, please email me at zoe@lofgrenforcongress.com.