yes, it is true that colin powell is a respected individual, but he is still only one individual, and he will not change the minds of those like me who are solidly behind the conservative way of thinking. obama will never work for my conservative ideals so he would never receive my vote, no matter how elegant his rhetoric. so while my friends in this thread so far are enjoying a moment of perceived victory, i will put my hope in the silent majority who really have made this country great. i will keep the faith.