2004 DNC: State Senator Barack Obama (7/27/04)

I live in Chicago and a year ago was planning on voting for another Democratic contender for the U.S. Senate nomination. But then I started hearing about this Obama guy, about his interesting story: first black editor of the Harvard Law Review (which is indicative of mega brains), biracial of an African father and white mother, professor at the University of Chicago. Then I saw his photo, with his huge and genuine smile. Finally, I heard him interviewed on public radio and then I heard him in the debates. I switched my vote, like thousands of others, from the person I intended to vote for to Barack Obama.

Nationally, Obama was proclaimed the rising political star of the Democratic party, a politician of transcended the politics of divisiveness to appeal to voters across the political spectrum. His keynote speech as the DNC was his coming out party, and his appearance was anticipated like that of a rock star. Expectations were, to be honest, quite absurdly high. What is even more amazing is that Obama surpassed expectations. Even conservative political commentators were palpably impressed.

Will Barack Obama fulfill his potential? Will he be an effective senator? Will he become, as many are predicting, the first black president? Only time will tell. But many commentators described this speech--the highpoint of the convention--as "historic." We'll see. On a cynical note, the Democratic party clearly means to make Obama the leading black Democrat in America. The Dem leaders clearly would prefer Obama, who would be one of the greatest white politicians if his skin color were different, to be the first black Democrat people thought of rather than Jesse Jackson or Al Sharpton. Barack Obama is going to succeed simply because of his immense intelligence, his personal charisma, his unifying ideas, his obvious high moral character, and his sense of what is truly important to American voters. But he will be more visible so that Jackson will be less so.

Thank you so much, Senator Obama, for your kind hearted eloquence. For all of us seeking leaders with visionary souls and sharp intellect, you have offered up words that heal and inspire.

Barak Obama's speech was not only inspiration, after all, that's why he was at the DNC. His speech was also intelligent, insightful, and showed that he can speak to the American Dream as much or more than anyone that I've ever heard. If you haven't yet heard his speech I strongly urge you to do so.

Now President-Elect Obama addresses the 2004 democratic convention in support of candidate John Kerry. His 16 minute speech echoes his support for the same programs and values espoused during his 2008 campaign. Very inspirational.

Obama passionately reminds us that the potential for greatness in this country by breaking down the barriers of prejudice and inequality. When you feel depressed about the state of this country under the present administration, listen to Obama's speech and feel the hope.

Barak Obama is such an outstanding speaker and I found this speech particularly moving. His passion is very inspirational. Cheers to Audible for providing this quality material!

This speech is the best summation of the Democratic ideal since Carol Mosely Brown's address at the 1972 Convention. Good to carry around with you.

Listen closely to the double speak and how change is going to REALLY affect us and our liberties as Americans.

Want to know what started the Obama Phenomena? This is it. I don't know how any American can rate this below four or five stars, unless they have an agenda.

He gives hope of something better.