Finally, here it is:
Frankly, after eight disastrous years under President Bush, either John McCain or Barack Obama would be a significant improvement and offer more reassuring leadership. But one candidate offers a clearer break with the past, the qualities to unite this country and the vision to lead it in a new direction. With enthusiasm, the Times recommends Barack Obama for president.
I've been waiting for the non-profit St. Pete Times to endorse, and they didn't disappoint:
We recommended Obama before the Florida primary in January as the Democrat who offered the most promise and a fresh start. Since then, he has continued to impress. His approach to creating a fairer tax policy and expanding health care with a blend of public and private coverage stands up well to scrutiny. His determination to rely more on diplomacy than force in foreign policy and to seek a timely, orderly withdrawal of troops from Iraq remains the most pragmatic approach. His acknowledgement that more troops are needed in Afghanistan should reassure those concerned about his willingness to use military force where needed. His energy proposals, while opening the door more than necessary to offshore drilling, are bold and balanced. As the economic crisis has mushroomed, he has responded with an appropriate mix of caution and sound principles grounded in reality.
I'm so glad the local hockey team, the Tampa Bay Lightning, play at the St. Pete Times Forum, and not something named after the Tampa Trib!
Oh, and as for McCain:
Most disturbing has been McCain's choice of Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin as his running mate. It was a reckless decision based on political calculations, not the country's best interests. There were many more qualified candidates, including Florida Gov. Charlie Crist. While Palin is an aggressive campaigner who has her own independent streak, she is clearly not prepared to be a heartbeat away from the presidency. Contrast McCain's most important decision as a presidential candidate with Obama's thoughtful selection of Sen. Joe Biden of Delaware, an experienced hand comfortable on the world stage and well versed in foreign policy.
The whole endorsement is great--read and enjoy!
http://www.tampabay.com/...
(I'll delete if someone beats me to this)