by Ted Sherman

Created on: February 07, 2007   Last Updated: March 19, 2008

Even if Obama is inexperienced and doesn't have a brilliant mind, he couldn't be a worse president than the four who'd precede him: Carter, Bush I, Clinton and Bush II. Of course, that doesn't say much for qualification. Possibly a rural dogcatcher couldn't have done worse in messing up America at home and abroad. Obama has worked hard to make his way up through the ranks to attain a Senate seat to represent Illinois, one of the toughest states for anyone to break through its traditionally restricted political machine.

Although Obama didn't come from poverty, he does represent the final break-through of a minority candidate to run for the highest office in the land. As in every presidential primary and subsequent campaign, there will be considerable mud-slinging. And it has already started. There will be more than a year of the worst name-calling, dug-up skeletons and bombastic accusations.. Then the political conventions will shake out the candidates and present the surviving two for the voters to choose. Instead of labeling Barack Obama this early with pitchfork and horns or angel's wings, let's wait and see how this bright, but inexperienced young man holds up under the terrific pressure.

At this much too early stage of the presidential race, it is difficult to fully assess Barack Obama. We can only do that if he has the guts, persistence and power to win over the Democrats, and emerges as their candidate. Then, after the Republicans have named their leader, the true test will come on a November Tuesday morning in 2008.

Learn more about this author, Ted Sherman.
Click here to send this author comments or questions.