Hardball and High Ground

Barack Obama’s performance on MSNBC’s April 3ed edition of College Hardball, showed the value of an inclusive approach to politics. When asked whether Obama considered the Clinton campaign’s constant allusion to his association with Jeremiah Wright as a “dog whistle,” - meaning coded comments designed to excite racism in a white audience while maintaining plausible deniability - Obama wisely responded that he considered the subject “fair game,” since his association with Wright was a genuine issue to voters.

Obama’s refusal to take what some would consider a cheap shot at the Clinton campaign in return for their repeated referrals to Wright, not to mention those suggesting Obama to be incompetent to be president, showed the superior character he consistently presents as the campaign develops.

Obama observed that he moves further from self-consideration and more toward concern for his family and for the people he hopes to serve as the campaign progresses. Indicating that he always does best when he puts ego aside, Obama showed himself to possess the wisdom we so desperately need from our next president.

In response to a student’s asking about his views on gay marriage, Obama showed his ability to express positions clearly while knowing his views to be controversial. Obama said immediately that he disapproved of gay marriage, but expressed understanding for the questioner’s concern and demonstrated his ability to address issues of inequity that affect all civil unions in our society today. While not providing the affirmation the questioner wanted, Obama fully addressed the underlying concern for fairness and respect needed for all types of partnerships in our society, whether or not we call them “marriage.”

Obama’s most adroit comment came when asked what he would do as president to promote stem cell research. Pointing out that the senate already had enough votes, Obama said he would give the one additional vote needed for passage by becoming president.

The more Obama is able to develop this high ground approach to the campaign, the more value the ongoing campaign will have for the nation’s spiritual recovery. An extended Democratic campaign will serve as a beneficial exercise for all involved to the extent that this high level of dialogue can be maintained and even improved upon during the coming months.