Posted by: Rachael Becker in Polls, Obama, Democrats on
Aug 19, 2008
During past presidential elections, the debate and fervor that accompanies them generally remains restricted to the States. The rest of the world is usually dealing with it's own problems. However, all of Europe is eagerly watching the candidates. And the man cheered on most by those on the Continent is Barack Obama.
Starting after the Iowa primaries, Europe became fascinated by the young senator. Three French newspapers (Le Monde, Libération, and Le Figaro) all featured Obama on the front page, even in the midst of President Sarcozy's tumultuous love life. The headline for the Le Monde was "The Greater America Opts for the New Man". The journal Courier International created a special issue of 97 pages dedicated to educate Europeans about Obama's plans and ideals for the U.S. as well as information about the senator's background and family. In Germany, Christoph von Marschall has written a book on the candididate, called Barack Obama, the Black Kennedy. During his recent trip to Europe, Obama's speech was greeted with applause and approval by the substantial crowd.
But what does this have impact does this have for the U.S.? While Obama still remains ahead in the polls, his lead over McCain is diminishing. A BBC news article published in July suggests that voters may feel somewhat "abandoned" by Obama. His recent visit to Europe as well as Iraq and Afghanistan have taken him away from his campaign in the U.S., decreasing his visibillity to the precious "swing states" whose people still need to know more about the senator. Obama's popularity abroad may have no effect or even a negative effect on his credibility at home. As fickle and jaded as voters are these days, Europe will have to wait in the hopes that the "black Kennedy" will win over America as he has Europe.
