Colin Powell just endorsed Obama for President. He said - "I have voted for members of both parties in the course of my adult life. And as I said earlier, I will vote for the candidate I think can do the best job for America, whether that candidate is a Republican, a Democrat or an independent," he added.

Here is a link to his statements regarding Obama. http://www.cnn.com/2008/POLITICS/10/...ell/index.html

To be honest, I was suprised by the endorsement, considering he is generally considered to be a Republican. Given his military background, I would have thought he'd be gung ho for McCain.

I would like to hope it is a sign that blind party affiliation is no longer the rule of thumb, and that people will indeed look at the candidates as individuals and choose based on ideals and philosophies that they feel are best for the country(and of course that will vary greatly).
Just as many "democrats" are leaning towards McCain, it seems that some people are really voting their based on individual policies/presentation.
I personally would love to see at least a viable independent or third party, something to offer an alternative to the rigid party lines often drawn at this point.

Originally Posted by rekop

Colin Powell just endorsed Obama for President. To be honest, I was suprised by the endorsement, considering he is generally considered to be a Republican. Given his military background, I would have thought he'd be gung ho for McCain.

Rekop, I am also surprised and very impressed by Colin Powell's endorsement of Senator Obama. Given Powell's military background, I think this will go a long way to alleviate some of the worries that people have had about Obama's competence as military leader. It speaks volumes about the comfort level we should be able to feel with Obama.

Looks like it's President Obama for sure.

I'm very happy that Colin Powell endorsed Senator Obama. He is a great military leader and a pragmatist. After listening to him on Meet the Press and his reasons for doing so, it's apparent he took his time and that this was a tough decision for him.

He stated all of the reasons that brought me to my choice. McCain's erratic behavior on the Economy, Palin's inadequacy to step in as President, the issue of Ayers being pounded (and still is) when it proved to be completely inconsequential, the negative tone and narrowing of the Republican party. But most importantly, in my opinion, the fact that Senator Obama can inspire and, hopefully, with diplomacy lift our country to a more stable and respected platform in this global community. I liked that Powell said something like "don't underestimate his rhetoric..." This is what brings people together.

And on that note, I'd like to say "don't underestimate Powell's endorsement." This Bush/McCain idea of "not talking to our enemies" is completely out of touch with today's world. I completely agree with Colin Powell in that Senator Obama is a highly intelligent, uniquely equipped, strong transitional leader for our next generation.

Originally Posted by rekop

Colin Powell just endorsed Obama for President. He said - "I have voted for members of both parties in the course of my adult life. And as I said earlier, I will vote for the candidate I think can do the best job for America, whether that candidate is a Republican, a Democrat or an independent," he added.

Here is a link to his statements regarding Obama. http://www.cnn.com/2008/POLITICS/10/...ell/index.html

To be honest, I was suprised by the endorsement, considering he is generally considered to be a Republican. Given his military background, I would have thought he'd be gung ho for McCain.

I used to work at a military base as a civilian back in 2000 and you would be surprised at the amount of military that voted Dem. And as a person who (stupidly) voted for Bush I am another one voting for Obama, I remember all the things McCain said when he was campaigning for President then, now he wants the people to believe he's changed , he's exactly like Bush and that's why Colin Powell is voting for Obama!! And did you hear what he said about McCain choosing Palin!!! It says it all!!

Yes, suprising, but refreshing!

It doesn't surprise me. He has always been a RINO. I lost all respect for him during the Gulf War. He admits he was helped by affirmative action. Also, even though he knew, from the beginning, Libby didn't spill the beans about Valerie Plame he let him take the fall.

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.

after being in the USMC for 12 years and serving under him in Opeation Des. Shield and Storm, that is big if he endorsed Obama. He is one of the best Military commanders you could have. he had all our utmost respect in the liberation of Kuwait. best known for telling you like it is. he is Republican and knows Washington. Bush appointed him as Sec. of State. Very well respected in the Military. Good Deal!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!1

I think this endorsement means a great deal as Colin Powell is respected by so many.

the sun being up around noon every day.
Is this the same Powell that everybody against the war was calling a liar and Bush lap dog about his testimony regarding WMD?

Nah can't be the same guy. How could it be....now using words like respected...independent thinker plus all the other praises being heaped upon him now that y'all know where he stands for the big 'O'.

Another proof positive endorsement....as long as they are on the Dems side they are OK....oh how short the memories....and convenient too.

I'll close with my opening.....surprised at him backing 'O'....your kidding!

BTK

Originally Posted by Guest

the sun being up around noon every day.
Is this the same Powell that everybody against the war was calling a liar and Bush lap dog about his testimony regarding WMD?

Nah can't be the same guy. How could it be....now using words like respected...independent thinker plus all the other praises being heaped upon him now that y'all know where he stands for the big 'O'.

Another proof positive endorsement....as long as they are on the Dems side they are OK....oh how short the memories....and convenient too.

I'll close with my opening.....surprised at him backing 'O'....your kidding!

BTK

Powell discussed all of that on Meet the Press if you bothered to watch. I've always respected him. But the day he won my ultimate respect was the day he resigned from the Bush regime.

Originally Posted by chachacha

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.

Billie, You are so right. He use to be called an Uncle Tom. Now he's the best thing since sliced bread.

Originally Posted by Sally Jo

Billie, You are so right. He use to be called an Uncle Tom. Now he's the best thing since sliced bread.

OMG! How quickly the Repubs can turn on one of their own! Wow!