Column: Obama Moving Too Far Right

This story was written by Sophie Prell, Iowa State Daily

When presidential election time rolls around, the buzz is near-constant. The intensity only grows as time brings us closer and closer to that most pivotal of votes, the decider of the president of the United States.

I personally have never really had much faith in our system. I've called into question the amount of power the average person really has. Sure, the electoral college is supposed to be influenced by the popular vote, but is there any proof that's happening? Why do we even participate?

I've pondered just how effective these television ads are. How much swing is created from these oh-so-wonderful testimonies, always ending with "I am Lying Scumbag A, and I approve this message"? Oh, and don't forget the slight twinkle in the corner of his smile, causing our friends, neighbors and grandmothers to exclaim, "He's so honest!"

So now we have our two candidates for the election: John McCain on the Republican side, and Barack Obama fighting for the Democrats. It's been an intense battle, filled with rallies, racist pastors, senior moments and more. Entertaining is what it is. Perhaps it could even be described as inspiring.

As previously stated, I'm not one to have much belief or trust in the system. I don't typically look at a candidate and say, "Y'know, I think I'll actually support this guy." But this year has been different for me. I've actually found someone I can get excited about. Someone I can stand behind.

Or at least I thought so, for awhile.

Barack Obama, who previously had my unwavering support, has recently done plenty to make me second-guess my vote.

Previously promising a complete withdrawal of our troops from Iraq, the placement of which was part of a "war that never should have been authorized, that should have never been waged." Originally, Obama's plan for withdrawal was to take 16 months. Now, according to Obama himself, that plan may need some "revision."

While running against former rivals Clinton and Edwards, Obama called the contributions other presidential hopefuls had received from unions "special interest money." Now, after being criticized for his inability to secure the white vote, he says he is thrilled to have union support.

When asked if he would rely on public financing for his run, Obama said "yes." Apparently, no one heard that, however, as Obama has since decided to raise his own money. Hm, now what could have possibly brought that decision about? Perhaps it's the fact that now there will be no limit on Obama's fundraising operation.

From pastors who give "provocative" sermons to a non-committal stance on gay marriage, from telecom immunity to working-class Americans, Obama has said a lot without really saying anything. Politician answers to a T, which is the exact opposite of the man I once so ardently admired and supported.

Don't get me wrong; Obama has taken a number of blows that are unwarranted and I absolutely do not support these, like the continued perpetuation of the Obama Muslim Myth. Unlike the Steve Kings of the world, I don't see a common middle name as sufficient reason to believe that terrorists will suddenly destroy our homeland. I don't visualize Obama taking the Oval Office and suddenly throwing his arms up in victory and boasting, "Yes! Now we blacks will show you, white America! You fools! You foolish fools!"

I may not know how I feel about Obama anymore, but at least I've learned that I can't take a candidate at face value. It's a lesson that's probably good for me to take to heart, but I still can't help but feel somewhat disillusioned. Somewhat disheartened.

And to answer the question you bay be thinking: Hell no, I'm not voting for McCai.