A New Day For America?

Just a little over 24 hour ago, Barack Obama became President -elect of the United States of America in a landslide victory. In doing so, he became to the first African -American to win this office. This much is well known, to just about anyone in the world now

It was nice and refreshing to have a fair and legally sound election. You always have some problems on election day, but nothing on the scale of disasters of 2000, and 2004. Still, even after both speeches, and some sleep, I had to check the papers to make sure it was not just a dream. I even double checked CNN, and AOL News to make sure. I wanted to make sure the Republicans had not pulled one of their famous nasty tricks again. I was again filled with joy as it was confirmed that, Yes, Obama / Biden where in fact the winners, and heading to the White House on January 20, 2009.

I like the fact that the outcome of the election was so very clear. Obama with 349 Electoral Votes, won an iron clad mandate to lead, and forward his vision for America. It was quick verdict as well, with Obama being declared the winner at 11:02pm EST or 8:02pm PST.

So is this a new day for America? I think the answer has to be a overwhelming yes!!!! I do believe that Change is coming to America. That, Obama can restore America back to honor, glory, and respect that has been missing over the last 8 years of the Bush administration.

Now to be fair, Obama wasn't my first choice, In fact he wasn't in my top 3. Back before Iowa Caucus, I was part of the draft Gore movement. Then when that failed to take hold, I did some hard looking , and found Joe Biden. I loved Senator Biden, and the way he handled himself on HBO's Real Time with Bill Maher. At my request, Biden's Senate Staff members sent me packets of major speeches, and press releases. I even worked at Biden's Las Vegas office leading up to Iowa. Moments after the Iowa Caucus was over, Biden drop out after a poor showing.

Then it was on to the campaign of Gov. Bill Richardson of New Mexico, But he dropped out after the New Hampshire primary.

So then I joined forces with John Edwards. I was always excited about his work on behalf of the poorest among us. I did have some issues with the tone of his speech to end the 2004 campaign, to me it was disrespectful of the opportunity that Sen. John Kerry had given him, but i got over it. I attended a rally with him before the Nevada debate, and made calls from my home, and his Las Vegas office.

I caucused for John Edwards and was elected as a delegate for him at the Clark County Democratic Convention

By the time of the convention, Edwards had dropped out of the race. The Convention itself was a disaster, the party had rented to small of a room for all the delegates. A month later at the re-vote, I picked Obama, mostly as a protest vote against Hillary Clinton.

I didn't seem to have a person in this fight at point, so I just watched from the sidelines, and helped on Congressional and local races.

This started to change for me when Barack Obama picked Joe Biden to be his running mate. I started to pay more attention, I couldn't help myself. Then the Democratic National Convention was exciting drama as it played out. To top it off, Obama gave an acceptance speech for the ages! Sadly, I still has some questions in my mind

Up next was the 3 Presidential and 1 Vice Presidential debates. it was during this time, although can't say the exact moment I know I was going to cast my vote for this ticket. I was on board

Thanks to Moveon.org, I was able to get a free Obama/Biden Bumper sticker. I proudly added it to the collection on my 2006 Saturn Vue AWD V6.

The hard work was on to get Obama/ Biden to the White House, Dina Titus to Congress, and to turn Nevada Blue . My Children helped as well. I love that they are young activists. We talked and debated with friends and strangers. We spread the word in chatrooms.

On Election Day, I took my children with me, as I have since they were born, and had them witness me voting. I hope this showing them by my actions, just how important it is to let your voice be heard and vote. They got a little bored, it was a long ballot, here in Nevada we vote on all judges as well, from Supreme Court to Justices of the Peace. After voting, I filled out two different exit poll questionnaires, talk with some poll observers, and headed home.

Obama won big in Nevada, 55.58% at the time The Las Vegas Review- Journal newspaper went to bed, but it was in the 60's % by time all ballots were accounted for. This makes Nevada a blue state, and she never looked so beautiful. it was a 6 year passion for me, and know it come to pass.

My former State Senator and close friend, Dina Titus is now Congresswomen Titus!! She will be representing Nevada's 3rd district. I'm so happy and proud at this victory. Titus came so painful close to being Governor in 2006. I was one of the first and will always be a member of Team Titus.

Barack Obama won me over during this campaign with his straight talk, the inspirational message of hope, and promise of reform. He is the son of a Kenyan father and a mother from Kansas, who has risen up to become the leader of the free world. What a historical moment !

During his moving victory speech, Obama said that change is coming to America.... maybe not in first year, or his first term, but with our help it will come.

I'm willing to take up the challenge of our next president, and change America for the better. The question now is will you ?

Love & Light,
Blessed Be )O(