History was made on November 4th 2008. We were both there to witness it - one in Washington, the other in Chicago. Realizing the significance of what had happened, we decided then and there to follow up on it over the internet. Over the course of the campaign, the two of us corresponded in lengthy email exchanges - sometimes discussing, sometimes debating. We had perviously spoken about continuing our political assessments in an open forum for others to see. That's exactly why we're here.
What do we expect?
That depends on who you ask. We both think there are considerable limits on a president's ability to bring about change, and do not share the absurdly high expectations of some Obama supporters. Much of the change we expect to see immediately will be somewhat symbolic - the closing of Guantanamo, the end of institutionally sanctioned torture, and improvement in America's image abroad. Though Kalash has lower hopes for some of the most pressing issues, including productive American involvement in a Middle East peace initiative, Junius expects that earnest efforts in this area and others will lead to considerable improvements in several areas over the next four years, chief among them health care.
What can our readers expect?
They can expect to read two different perspectives on issues pertaining to the change Obama's election brings - or the lack thereof. As often as we can, we will report on major developments and provide thorough analysis when warranted. Although we agree on many of the fundamental issues, we often find ourselves on different sides of the fence.
Are we Republicans or Democrats?
Kalash, whose dissatisfaction with the two-party system has made him reluctant to "pick a side" in American politics, is an Independent. Junius, on the other hand, is a lifelong Democrat.
Did we vote for Obama?
Yes and no... Although he was born in the USA, Kalash has never voted. For starters, he is opposed to the two-party system. He was contemplating voting for Obama early on, but quickly became disillusioned. He is still waiting for someone to earn his vote... hopefully from another party.
Are we Republicans or Democrats?
Kalash, whose dissatisfaction with the two-party system has made him reluctant to "pick a side" in American politics, is an Independent. Junius, on the other hand, is a lifelong Democrat.
Did we vote for Obama?
Yes and no... Although he was born in the USA, Kalash has never voted. For starters, he is opposed to the two-party system. He was contemplating voting for Obama early on, but quickly became disillusioned. He is still waiting for someone to earn his vote... hopefully from another party.
Junius has voted ever since he's been eligible to do so - it's a right he doesn't take lightly, and one he feels is his duty to take advantage of. Not only did he vote for Obama, he followed his campaign intently and was one of many who helped it succeed.