OT: US Pres election

[Agema]

Originally Posted by Atrocities

True. However it is only fair to point out that Palin is being forced to show ALL of her qualifications while Senator Obama isn't. It is lop sided. But by now we all know who we are going to support so all of this is really just cheap entertainment for us now. I am going to sit back and laugh at all the crap both sides is going to start flinging. Should be fun.

This is sort of true and also sort of not true. His general experience is of a similar level to Palin's, and their capabilities as a statesmen and leaders, that may occur in decisions behind closed doors, is not clear.

However. Obama is a force. I don't live in the US, and I've known about him for several years as a major up-and-coming politician. In 3-4 years he's made a big impression. He campaigned so well he beat Clinton, who was a massively strong candidate, not just with pretty speeches but with solid organisation. Consequently, Obama has already proved he has leadership qualities, charisma, and can work in politics on a national and international level.

In contrast, Palin was completely obscure outside her home state, and it's a very low-population state. She had made little or no impact in the US never mind anywhere else, and was plucked out of nowhere for VP candidate.

That's really the difference. Obama has already been through the wringer and performed decently throughout, which means he has been tested. Palin has only just started to face tests, and she's already stumbled (such as her pretty incompetent Couric interview).