Obama Wins

Obama won.

And it was a hard fought battle, but first thing’s first. This represents a moment of great maturity in our nation. Step back, both liberals and conservatives, and consider what has happened: America, a country that has had considerable racial strife in it’s past, has just elected it’s first African-American president.

Most of you who know me know that I had a lot of concerns about this man. He still has so many unknowns, so many odd views, things that worry me. But, I also consider myself an American before I label myself as a conservative, and above all else I respect our constitution and system. The people have spoken, and they chose Obama. I commend him for his victory.

A lot of people are worried now. We face the prospect of higher taxes, increased government, and legislative agendas that will try to mold our lifestyles. Congress has swung into the hands of democrats – but take heart. This election does not represent a swing to the left in the opinions of America, but rather – a rejection of the republican party. The shunning of a party that no longer cares about it’s founding ideals and it’s base. This is something I am almost positive Obama has realized.

If you haven’t already, I encourage all of you to listen to Obama’s acceptance speech. Not once did he mention ambitious social agendas, partisanship, or how evil the other side was. It was a speech asking for our support, and understanding. What I took away from his speech was that he knows that America is a country of moderates, and that there are many conservatives still out there. He will remember us, and respect our views – if you take him at his word.

Obama’s major challenge will be keeping congress under control – just take a look at the current congressional leadership. They represent the factors in the democratic party that have nearly hijacked it, and forced them to the hard left. Bernake, Schumer, Barney Frank, Pelosi – they are nearly foaming at the mouth, eager to nationalize health care, try the bush administration for war crimes, force through union agendas, raise taxes, cut military spending – you name it. They will be pushing Obama to accept their views – and we will truly know where Obama stands with his response.

If Obama pushes hard left, he will alienate all the people who took a chance by voting for him, and he knows this. Keep this in mind, as we go through the following months. Hard times are ahead, but there is reason for hope. But all that aside – even though I am giving Obama a chance, I will be scrutinizing his actions. If he fails to follow through, and takes us to the radical left, I, and many others, will hold him accountable.

It’s not over. Far from it. But pay attention, and keep informed, and give Obama time to prove himself.

For all of you who voted, congratulations. Even if you lost, your voice was heard, and it made a difference.