Noelle Clemente
At the onset of the depression, American’s elected a Democrat into a Republican White House. After Bill Clinton questioned the trust of Americans with a questionable relationship, Republicans regained control. When the state of the country or the world is unpredictable at best, American’s have been known to elect into office the other major party.
Change has been one of the most important words in this 2008 election. The democratic ticket has played on the notion that Americans want change, and to them, that means a change in party. The Republican ticket has worked to convince the American people that change in leadership is enough; there is no need to change parties.
This election, party change won once again.
“That’s the true genius of America, that America can change,” said Senator Obama in his acceptance speech tonight. Change is the opportunity that the democratic process provides for America.
The first year Leadership Fellows responded to this notion of change on Tuesday morning, with an historical election on the horizon tonight.
“Change in today’s election is as much about a different perspective as it is a different approach,” said Sarah Clancy, 18.
Voting for the first time, these first year Elon University students entered the classroom wearing shirts and pins supporting both parties. “Americans turn to “change” in hard times because we want to feel like we are being proactive about fixing our problems,” said Stephanie Giunta, 18.
John Stossel recently released a story begging that only those who are truly educated vote. College students are often criticized for being liberal institutions, but this class proved educated and diverse in their thinking.
“Americans have always looked to be a progressive nation that can be a leader,” said Allison Parker, 19. On the other hand, Aeriel Hall thinks that, ” the change needed may be in the citizens themselves and not always the leaders of our countries.”
“Reaffirm that fundamental truth that out of many we are one,” said Senator Obama, affirming the democratic process that elected him into office.
“Obama’s better organization, calm manner, mellifluous speaking style and unthreatening message of “change” all served him well,” according to Tom Friedman, New York Times Columnist.
Change won the election, but if it is enough to beat the troubled time is a question yet to be answered.
