Reply #13: By temperament, I've been a "third party" contrarian all my adult life. [View All]

[pnorman]

My Political Compass Test results were as follows:
"Economic Left/Right: -7.50, Authoritarian/Libertarian: -4.92

That makes me a "Left-Libertarian"; essentially an anarchist. Were I obsessed with intellectual consistency/conformity, I'd be totally indifferent to which candidate should get elected. But I'm NOT. Although I "felt good" in the elector victories of FDR, Truman, Kennedy, Johnson, Carter, and Clinton, until now the CLOSEST to being a heart-felt supporter of a "mainstream" Democratic candidate was for Dennis Kucinich. But color me naive or addled with age, but I have NEVER been as inspired by anyone else as I've been by Barack Obama! And that was a late attachment, beginning (by degrees) about last April or May.

I believe that he knows what is wrong with this Nation, and is determined to mend it. I also believe that he has a very clear idea of all the third Rails in our political system, and will avoid them at all costs. If he's rendered politically impotent, all the best intentions in the world would mean absolutely NOTHING! And as we all know, some of the most powerful forces in this country are prepared to do just that --- just as soon as it becomes politically practical. When his approval rating drops below about 70%, the knives will be unsheathed. GUARANTEED!

Accordingly, I'm prepared to cut him as much slack as possible in all his actions, statements and appointment until clearly shown otherwise. Risky? Do I stand a good chance of becoming what I've despised call my life -- a blind follower of a phony messiah? I'll take that chance, and I urge all others here to consider doing the same.

pnorman