Obama's Victory Speech

If you haven't had the chance to watch Obama's speech (see below) following his decisive victory in Iowa, then it is well worth a look-see.  I am continually amazed by Obama's phenomenal rhetorical skill.  He appears to be using no notes and no prompters, but he delivers a clear, carefully thought through speech. 

What impressed me most about this speech, and about Obama's message in general is that it does not trade in catch-phrases with hidden meanings (e.g. "protecting families in America" = anti-abortion), and it has real content.  He lays out some clear, understandable ideas that you can actually imagine a politician doing - things like ending the occupation of Iraq, working with other global leaders, and tackling climate change.  For me, this marks an important shift in political rhetoric - a shift away from "covering-your butt by uttering vague, but inspiring phrases that don't commit you to anything."

On a bigger level, I also am encouraged to hear two major themes emerging from his address.  One, the more aggressive stance against the role of corporate interests and the wealthy; and two, a strong message of reconciliation - reclaiming peoplehood in the midst of bitter divides.  Both of these ideas seem absolutely essential at this point in time in American, and dare I say, North American politics.

Which leads me to wonder who Stephen Harper will/is reacting to this change in the climate of American politics.  I have long been critical of Harper's seeming parroting of Bush's political strategy (e.g. deligitimating the int'l community on climate change, being pro-pro-Dalai Lama, openly criticising Iran, giving corporations and the wealthy a large break in taxes, running a very tightly controlled and managed political image, muzzling dissenting voices, etc.).  I wonder if Harper will keep this general strategy up going into an election, or if he will change his tune.  I think that Obama's popularity must be making Harper nervous about the upcoming election, knowing that many Canadian's are generally inclined to the message that Obama presents.