Obama-can

I have been raised to be a staunch Republican all my life. My parents have voted for a Republican presidential candidate in every election that I have been around to witness. I too, have always voted for a Republican for President. I have always felt good about voting Republican. I have to say that this election will be different for me. I know my view isn't a very popular one, but I love Barack Obama. I have been a supporter of his since he started out of the presidential gate. Some may be wondering why? Here are ten reasons why I want Barack Obama for President.

1. He is unflustered when he is under pressure. No matter the question or comment that is thrown at him, he takes a moment to think his response through and then he delivers it in a calm and assuring manner. It is important to me that the President of the United States can think on his feet and seem cool, calm, and collected when the pressure is on.
2. If you look at his website and start clicking on the issues facing our nation, you will see that he has something that John McCain seems to severely lack...plans. He has a plan for everything. Lest you think that I am naive to think that all these things will come to pass, I am aware that he is shooting for the moon with his policy changes and outlay of money. Shoot for the moon and you'll likely land among the stars!
3. Obama does not make personal attacks on John McCain's character.
4. Obama has risen among difficult circumstances in his childhood and made something of himself; all while giving back to those in need as a community organizer rather than a high paid lawyer out of college.
5. Barack has focused on the needs of the low and middle class from the beginning. All of his policies are meant to directly impact the people, not to trickle down from the rich.
6. Barack realizes that early childhood education, after school programs and delivering on No Child Left Behind funding are key to reaching the children in low income families. The more educated our population is the better off we all are.
7. Barack has a great plan for healthcare. I know that most people are scared to talk about government run healthcare. Obama's plan is a happy medium between what we have now and total government run healthcare. Check out his plan: http://www.barackobama.com/issues/healthcare/
8. Tax policies. Barack wants to lower taxes for families that make less than $250,000 a year. I definitely fall into that category. I also like that Obama wants to eliminate taxes on Seniors that make less than $50,000 a year. I can't even imagine the fear that must strike seniors that are unable to work, and have very little money to live on when they retire.
9. If you want to be blown away, check out Obama's plan to ramp up service opportunities for the young and old alike. Check out his ideas: http://www.barackobama.com/issues/service/
10. I truly believe that America needs a change. I do believe that John McCain will be slightly different from George Bush, but I am looking for a more drastic change.

Again, I know I am a "Mormon Maverick" for wanting to vote for Barack Obama. I'm sure people do a double take when they see my BYU license plate and my "Obama for President" sticker. Let the best man win!