Electoral Map

This CNN article now puts a full 277 electoral votes in the Obama column based on the latest polling. Basically that means if every single one of the close races went for McCain, according to recent polls, Obama would still win. Virginia was the most recent state that pushed Obama past the critical 270 mark according to CNN analysts.

As I write this, the debates are exactly 1 hour and 13 minutes away. This is McCain's last chance to have a major impact on the election outcome. Could he still win? Of course, but it would almost certainly have to be done by some outside, yet unforeseen event unless he can land a hail-Mary pass tonight. Things are not looking good for him, but fortunately, very good for the country.

As for race relations in an Obama presidency.... I'm an optimist. I realize that this will bring out the craziest kooks and the most bold-faced racists. I realize that people will parse every action and declare how bad he is. But fortunately, Obama is nothing if not competent. And because of this I am confident that this will be limited to just a fringe and the country at large will greatly benefit both from his thoughtful and insightful leadership as well as the racial progress that he represents.

And the best part of all.... I'd happily vote for him if he was white... or Asian-American... or Latino-American or any other nationality. I'd vote for him anyway because his insight, judgement, tone, hope and vision are exactly what this country needs. And that makes him the best choice to be the President of these United States.