Dec 06 2008
Fundamental Change
It’s a bitter 14 degrees at my house right now, yikes! Let’s talk about change for a bit today, yes?
Among the change that President-elect Barack Obama has pledged to bring is in the way the U.S. carries itself on the international stage. Obama has a lot of plans for change in this area. Along with the primary goal of ending the war in Iraq, Obama has also said he plans to negotiate U.S. adversaries such as Iran and Cuba, and wants fundamental change in the way the U.S. handles free trade with other countries.
There is actually a lot of room for some pretty big fundamental change in these plans. Obviously getting our soldiers out of Iraq will free up the military to finish the task at hand in Afghanistan. Although the tactic is being referred to as a “surge” (much like what we did in Iraq), the military is quick to point out that this is a little different than that since the soldiers will probably have to stay in Afghanistan for a while until it’s stable.
Open communications with enemy countries is another big fundamental change that Obama will bring. Relations between the United States and Iran have been icy at best since the 1979 Iranian revolution and the United States and Cuba haven’t officially communicated in 47 years. What role will Iran play in progress towards peace in the Middle East? Could we see an end to the Cuban embargo?
Also what changes to trade will Obama make? During the campaign season Obama hinted at more regulation over what countries we’re trading with. One major tightrope that Obama will have to walk with this will be China. It’s one that I’m confident he’ll be able to do though, this statement in a press release from the campaign shows that Obama sees both sides of the picture on this issue.
“The U.S. should be firm on issues that divide us [from the Beijing government] -like Taiwan-while flexible on issues that could unite us. We should insist on labor standards and human rights, the opening of Chinese markets fully to American goods, and the fulfillment of legal contracts with American businesses-but without triggering a trade war, as prolonged instability in the Chinese economy could have global economic consequences.” Said Obama.
Some of the changes that Obama will be bringing you can already see starting to happen. One is a retooling of the Pentagon and their mission. This is something that current Secretary of Defense Robert Gates supports, citing “irregular warfare” as the need for the change in strategy. Gates will retain his position under the Obama administration.
I can’t help but feel optimistic despite the turmoil facing our country right now. It’s reassuring to know that we have a calm, cool, and collected leader of our country on the way.
Is it January 20th yet? Wake me up when it is…
I don’t know about Woody… it makes me kind of sad too!
As for Obama, I am with you that despite all the turmoil, there is a general sense of optimism. I love Obama, I actually was in Grant Park when he spoke his acceptance speech on election night. I can not wait to see the big inauguration party, it should be fun. -Kev