Posted by
Boomer911 on Sunday, July 27, 2008 4:32:47 PM
In what is fast becoming a huge distraction to the real issues of the political campaign, Barack Obama's world tour marches on as he will now undoubtedly claim the foreign policy experience as well as the world's approval to be commander in chief as proof of his rightful place in the WHite House this fall. But what the rest of the world needs to understand is that the decision is not theirs and if the slight upward tick in the polls is any indication as to how the American people feel about Obama's tour, they just may reject him and his message altogether.
Obama's world tour was no doubt an effort to show the young Senator in a new light, one that is commanding and presidential. Giving speeches to huge crowds certainly helps him look presidential and definitely authenticated his appeal to supporters and critics alike. But will this world-wind tour really carry any water at the end of the day? Has Obama done enough to convince the American people his penchant for reading broad sweeping speeches off a teleprompter is worthy of their vote? Not yet at least, as I cannot help but think of Benjamin Franklin's fitting quote of, "Here comes the orator...long on words but short on logic."
Overall I would have to say the world tour was a success as Obama was received like royalty by other nations as well as the press. I cannot recall one reporter asking any tough questions the whole time he was over there as they fell all over each other and went out of their way to kiss his behind. But there is a slight controversy following the Senator home from his trip that I can say will probably hold some water with the American people. It seems the Obama camp is in a war of words with the Pentagon concerning the Senator cancelling a scheduled stop to visit with injured American soldiers in Germany. The Pentagon is reporting that when Obama was told no cameras and reporters could go in to see the troops with him, implying a photo opportunity for Obama, he decided to skip the visit altogether. Now if there is one thing the American people will not tolerate, its disrespect for their fighting men and women who proudly serve and wear our nation's uniforms. This decision could cost the Obama campaign when it is all said and done and at the very least limit any bump in the polls concerning his world tour and rock star status. The following is a Reuters report on the issue and is worth watching.