Reflecting the usual twinge of resentment that Europeans can’t vote in U.S. elections, and exasperation with the intricacies of the Democratic Convention and the selection of Joe Biden over Hillary Clinton as Obama’s running mate, Jean-Claude Kiefer of France’s Les Dernieres Nouvelles d’Alscace, writes of what Europe hopes – but does not expect – for from the next U.S. President:
“The future president of the United States, just like his predecessors, will exclusively defend the interests of his country, economically and diplomatically. So much the better, if those interests happen to coincide with those of Europe. Too bad, if this isn’t the case: Paris, London or Berlin will never stop Washington from doing what it pleases. … There remains, however, some hope … or at least, wishes. For example, that the America of a John McCain or a Barack Obama changes its tone; that she stops constantly pushing for vain confrontations in the name of defending democracy, which is always trotted out whenever its economic interests – mainly oil – need preservation; and that it treats its European allies as partners. … One can always dream.”
By Jean-Claude Kiefer
Sandrine Ageorges
August 24, 2008
France – Les Dernières Nouvelles d’Alscace – Home Page (French)
If Europeans could vote on November 4th, Barack Obama would certainly be the next president of the United States. It’s a question of charisma, no doubt, and the attraction of novelty, too, as the Senator from Illinois stands out from the “standard” America political class. But it’s his whole being, not just because of his Afro-American origins.
The choice, however, lies with the Americans, who are apparently less and less receptive to the “Obama effect.” Because the Democratic candidate, long ahead in the polls, is now neck and neck with Republican John McCain. Is this precisely because Obama isn’t “standard” issue? The choice of Joseph Biden on the ticket as Vice President answers that question. Here we have an old veteran, famous for his gaffes, but able to pull all the political strings without causing a stir. In some ways, the opposite of Barack Obama. In short, the man is needed to show that America will remain true to itself.
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