Richard Holbrooke’s article “The Next President” was a comprehensive outline of the difficult tasks awaiting the next president. These tasks include, but are not limited to, improving America’s image abroad, renewing the economy, fighting terrorism and establishing a plan for climate change/energy dependence. Both McCain and Obama have recognized a need for change in several of these areas and Holbrooke defines and critiques each of their platforms on the various subjects. Although never explicitly said within the article, Holbrooke notes that Obama is the only candidate whose perspective plans are more likely to fully renew America and strengthen its international relationships. Though I was pleased with Holbrooke’s writing style, in which he breaks down key issues in layman’s terms, I was rather disappointed at his obvious bias towards Obama. Despite Holbrooke’s favoritism towards one candidate, he recognizes that the United States “deserves leadership worthy of its people, leadership that will restore the nation’s pride and sense of purpose.”

In a nation where equitable political journalism is a rare find, it is necessary for voters to search diligently for a clear representation of the principle objectives of each of the candidates. In doing so, each of us may become more fully aware of the weight of our decision to choose a leader who will make us proud to live in the most powerful nation on earth.