The American dream – but what can he deliver?
Well yes the election of a black working class american to president epitomises the American dream of “everyone can make it” and I am glad that he did! The Bush era has been a disaster for the US in International terms and another hard right ( and oh yes he is) ageing republican with a gun toting evangelical VP within reach of the nuclear button when he crocks it was frightening. So we have an eloquent, charismatic, forward looking US president – but once in power what changes can he realistically make?
The economy – well his hands are tied and most of the pre-emptive action has been taken and so he inherits a mess and has to ride it out in line with the rest of the globe.
Foreign policy – another mess – the practicalities of the so called “war on terror” are such that no overnight u-turns are possible and my money is on other powers (including terrorists) looking to test his mettle at the first opportunity they have.
Flashpoints – such as the middle east – being black and charismatic does not change the dynamics and prejudices on the ground so more challenges there!
And I fear that somewhere amongst the neo-conservatives is a nutcase with a rifle – or worse – a well funded organised group with one! Lets hope not – but let the media clamour die down and reset expectations for business as usual!
