Tuesday, November 11, 2008

2008 Election Reflection

Let me start off by saying, wow, what a historical election. I can finally say that our country is becoming to be as one. We have made many strides to equality in our country throughout history; however, this one has topped them all. It is wonderful to me that history was made by electing the first black president of American. I am very proud to be a part of this inspirational moment in time and will never forget it.

One main issue that truly affected the results of 2008 election was the youth votes. Mainly, as said in the NPR broadcast, that the youth votes had made a large impact on this election because of technology. Young people are free to research online and figure out who they think will be the most suitable for presidency which gives them a chance to spread their thoughts and ideas that could influence other people. The internet also allows younger voters feel as though they are a greater part of the political process than the past elections. Having the Internet has made them feel more confident with their views on politics and more comfortable to share them. Through youtube videos, facebook, etc., the social spectrum has permitted the youth to let people hear their say in politics that has never been possible for them. SNL has also made a huge impact on the election as well. One may think that these skits are all for mockery and laughs, however they have played a role for some in the election. It may seem crazy but these skits are actually influential for the decision of many Americans who their next president elect should be. Mike Dabadie, FirstView researcher, stated that 10 percent of voters said they were influenced by the skits. These skits are great because they allow us to see how the actors impersonate their flaws and make us really think who is commodious for office.

I also found it interesting what other countries thought of our election. I did not come across any article that disapproved Obama being in office. Different countries such as Kenya, South Africa, and Zambia were filled with glee that an African-American was elected president. They say many more doors will open in Africa because of this. Also, excitement surrounding Barack Obama’s victory has swept across world, more so in the Middle East: a region where the general opinion has been that anybody would be better than George W. Bush. Now that we have a new president, we will have a fresh slate with different countries around the world. Here's a video that shows reactions of people all around the world. It astonished me how many people care about our election of US president. It's a really awesome clip.

2 comments:

Jamie Eckardt said...

I as well didn't see a single country that dissapproved of Senator Barack Obama. It is very interesting to see how other countries look at the United States. I think that overall the rest of the world has more of a positive outlook on the future with the horrible economic crisis that we are in along with the war on terrorism. Then again I think that everyone around the world has really high expectations so I'll be interested to see what comes of our new President and if he will be able to live up to what is expected of him.

alyssa d. said...

Sorry I'm responding so late. I agree with you when you said this is a very inspirational time in our lives that we lived to see I also agree with you in terms of the Internet usage and how it helped younger people open up politcally and learn more. It has helped me as well become a little bit more aware of the issues. Very nice points and set up.