Following that, he explained why Obama was a better choice:
“She’s a very distinguished woman, and she’s to be admired, but at the same time, now that we have had a chance to watch her for some seven weeks, I don’t believe she’s ready to be president of the United States, which is the job of the vice president."
And I come to the conclusion that because of his ability to inspire, because of the inclusive nature of his campaign, because he is reaching out all across America, because of who he is and his rhetorical abilities – and we have to take that into account – as well as his substance. He has both style and substance. He has met the standard of being a successful president, being an exceptional president. I think he is a transformational figure. He is a new generation coming in to the world, on to the world stage, on to the American stage. And for that reason, I’ll be voting for Senator Barack Obama.
With appoximately 2 weeks until Election Day, Powell's endorsement is the highest Republican endorsement since the beginning of the General Election campaigning season for Obama. McCain later on this afternoon dismissed the endorsement: "Well, I’ve always admired and respected General Powell,” he said. “We’re longtime friends. This doesn’t come as a surprise. But I’m also very pleased to have the endorsement of four former secretaries of state” - Henry A. Kissenger, James A. Baker III, Lawrence Eagleburger and Alexander M. Haig — “and I’m proud to have the endorsement of well over 200 retired army generals and admirals. I respect and continue to respect and admire Secretary Powell.”
As many would think, this is just another nail in McCain's campaign and just further's the Democrats chances of winning the election. Obama called Powell ten minutes after his interview on Meet the Press and thanked him for his endorsement. He confirmed that he would not be campaigning with Mr. Obama in the last weeks of the campaign but he did not rule out the possibility of a cabinet appointment.
Below is the video footage of his interview on Meet the Press:
1 comment:
I agree with Powell's analysis of Obama. I think a transformation figure is especially key in this day and age, and America needs to change its strictly unilateral approach to foreign policy. I also think Powell spoke the truth about Palin. To the Republican Party, Palin is no more than a strategic object. She is not prepared to take on the Vice Presidential responsibilities, and truly doesn't even understand her place. In the debate, Palin said as VP she would be quite active within the senate and the white house. I'm sorry, but the public needs to check such authoritative abuse. The job of the VP is to preside over Senate and break ties, not to become actively engaged in policy decisions. And I think especially because of McCain's age, Palin is a threat to the campaign. Props to Powell for making this statement so close to election day.
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