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| Saturday, June 07, 2008 |
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The Democratic Nominee
By Jan Schakowsky @ 8:47 PM |
| Barack Obama is the Democratic nominee for President of the United States of America.
Of course you all know that, but I am still processing the enormity of that simple truth.
First of all, it is OUR Barack Obama that is likely to be President, the fellow we've known for over a decade as
a State Senator, our US Senator, a Hyde Parker who you might see in the neighborhood with his kids or maybe working out at the East Bank Club.
Stepping back now from the intensity of the primary, it's worth letting sink in just how momentous this really is. Our Barack Obama has already written a new chapter in history as the first American of African descent to be chosen by the voters of a major party as their nominee for President.
For months now, my favorite fantasy has been to picture January 20, 2009, when Barack Obama stands on the platform on the West Side of the U.S. Capitol with George W. and Laura Bush and Dick and Lynn Cheney. I see Barack stepping forward, along with beautiful Michelle, Malia and Sasha, raising his hand and taking the oath of office. I can practically hear his voice. Even before he makes his inaugural address, one that I feel sure will be included among the best with those of Lincoln, Roosevelt and Kennedy, the narrative about the United States dramatically shifts. People around the world are rejoicing. On the lawn of the capitol and cities and villages across our country, Americans are standing taller, prouder and yes, they are feeling hopeful about the future.
I sat on that same platform as a relatively new member of Congress on January 20, 2000. It was a rainy day, thank goodness, because I was crying when George Bush rather than Al Gore, who was also there, stepped forward to take the oath of office. I know I will be crying next year too, but this time with joy and anticipation and a strong dose of relief.
Am I getting ahead of myself? Absolutely! My fantasy will be just that if we don't roll up our sleeves and get back to work. As one of the National Co-Chairs of the campaign, I look forward to that. But it is fun to begin to contemplate the consequences of what will be an astonishing victory. It is exciting to envision the nearly unlimited opportunities that will spread out before us for a more peaceful and just country and world in which the best is yet to come.
And I also want to congratulate Hillary Clinton on a historic and hard fought campaign. Her campaign broke incredible new ground, and by waging a vigorous campaign all across the country, she brought out many new Democratic voters. She has made Obama an even stronger candidate, in a better position to take on John McCain in November. I will be part of the outreach to Hillary supporters and would welcome any suggestions and help from those of you who are among them
I look forward to making this journey over the next five months with you. Thanks to all of you who have helped make this happen. Watch this website for more opportunities to be part of this thrilling and historic adventure.
Jan Schakowsky |
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