Controlling Spin Students Endorse the Democratic Candidates for President

As a group of young, educated voters, we want to encourage the American people to vote for a change from the status quo, to vote Democratic in the 2008 election. The Democratic candidates in this year’s Presidential election are perhaps two of the best we have seen in a long time.

Senator Hillary Clinton is a strong woman who believes in the American people. She is reestablishing trust in the federal government for both Americans and international societies as well. Her plans for accessible and affordable healthcare are sure to be a vast improvement from the way things currently are. She seeks to increase the number of those who matriculate as well as decrease the number of high school students who drop out, by administering programs that will increase tuition aid while promoting community service. Her expretise extends not only to domestic affairs, but also to foreign affairs. Clinton has continued to raise questions about the War in Iraq, and is determined to bring our troops home sooner rather later. For all these reasons, one should undoubtedly see the differences between her and Senator John McCain, the GOP candidate. However, there are not many differences to be found between Senator Barack Obama and Senator Clinton.

Senator Obama is just as committed to change as Clinton is. He has continued to fight for our educational system, not only at the college level but beginning with our children. He will also fight for a better healthcare system. Senator Obama is an articulate and charismatic individual who sees what America can be and where the American people can go. He also is determined to bring our troops home and end this war, a war that has put a huge strain on our failing economy.

By now it is evident that our government needs reformation, and only a Democratic President will be able to bring the salvation that America needs. The Democratic candidates represent the change that we need. They are dealing with issues that are most pertinent and important to us. We are not asking you to vote Democratic for the sake of the Democratic Party, but because either Senator Obama or Senator Clinton will bring the change that this country needs in 2008. For these reasons and many more, we endorse the Democratic Party and their candidates.

Contolling Spin Students
Wilkes University

Why Does Style Matter?

Why does style matter when you are electing a president? In the 2008 presidential election, Democratic hopefuls Hillary Clinton and Barack Obama are racing for the hot seat to lead this country through a time of “change.” But which one actually has what it takes to be the next president?

Both Obama and Clinton stand on similar platforms. Both support pulling out of the war in Iraq, both want better health care, both agree that change is needed for the U.S. But even if both said the same words, one may come off as a better candidate than the other. Why?
The answer is style. I am not referring to who looks better in blue, or who wore a better collared shirt to a debate, but rather the personal rhetorical style of a candidate based on their charisma, personality, and likeability.

Senator Barack Obama has been endorsed by members of former President John F. Kennedy’s family, including his daughter and his brother. J.F.K. was well-known and well-liked for his personality. Kennedy’s daughter Caroline even said that there was not another president that embodied that same charisma as her late father until Barack Obama. He has a general likeability, a down to earth personality, and a charismatic tone. Obama is seen as a change agent for the U.S., and it is probably safe to assume that everyone agrees that a change for this country is definitely what is needed.

Hillary Clinton has not been endorsed by such individuals because of her “style,” but rather her ability to be a good leader. The Kennedy family is not united on the endorsement front. Bobby Kennedy Jr., Kathleen Kennedy Townsend, and their sister Kerry all support Hillary Clinton. Kathleen Kennedy Townsend released a statement saying, “While I admire Senator Obama greatly, I have known Hillary for over 25 years and have seen first hand how she gets results.” Clinton has sometimes been seen as a closed person, a figurative stone wall. While Obama is earning his Kennedy endorsement for his charisma, Clinton is earning hers for her hard work and ability to get things done the right way.

Let’s all remember that it is only February, and I don’t want to be presumptuous and announce a winner just yet. Barack Obama has charisma and a great personality. He relates to people and is an inspiration to many. Hillary Clinton embodies leadership and the hard work and dedication that is needed to turn the United States of America right side up. Does their style really matter when it comes down to who will be elected? I guess we will just have to wait and see.

Amanda Cawley '09
Wilkes University
Communication Studies