by Jennifer Valicia

Created on: January 17, 2009

As a swing-state resident, I was acutely aware of the significance of my vote in this election. There are many reasons why I gladly stood in line for over two hours to cast my early vote for Barack Obama. Among the more important are the following:

1) A desire for a capable leader with sound judgment and integrity.

Obama's motives are honorable and sincere, and his record of service adds credibility to his ideals. He has captivated worldwide attention and respect, and just may compensate for the leadership failures of the past eight years.

2) Obama's intellectual abilities.

Highly educated and extremely intelligent, he used his Harvard law degree (magna cum laude) to practice civil law, teach constitutional law, direct the Harvard Law Review, and serve his community and nation. He is an innovative thinker who has the ability to fully consider the nation's complex problems and balance immediate needs with long-term solutions.

3) Confidence in Obama's ability to lead us out of our economic crisis.

Trickle-down theory has proven disastrous; Obama understands the complexity of the situation and will wholeheartedly work to financially empower the middle class. He can personally identify with our struggles, and is uniquely responsive to the needs of the entire spectrum of our citizens.

4) The threat of John McCain and Sarah Palin in the White House.

It became painfully clear that the McCain/ Palin ticket was intellectually and temperamentally ill-suited for the role. As a women with great respect for women's advancement, the prospect of President Sarah Palin inspired me only to donate hard-earned cash to the Obama campaign. Twice.

5) Barack Obama's values.

An intensely hard-working man who rose from nothing, Obama embodies American ideals of opportunity. His has heartfelt devotion to his family, and his determination for change of the status quo is felt by millions of American. He is full of optimism, hope, and faith - essential qualities that I have never mistaken for naivety.

6) His priorities of economic, health care, education, and energy reform.

Obama has recognized the nation's most fundamental problems and has shown steadfast determination for change. He not only has the intelligence to fulfill these pledges, but the eloquence and charisma to inspire Americans to assist in positive transformation.

7) Obama's stance on foreign policy.

Like millions of other Americans, I have faith in his desire and ability to lead us through the end of these wars. I believe in his ability

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