Change

IN BERMUDA ON BUSINESS

Being out of the country often gives you a different perspective on the American political landscape - you see the US from an outsider's point of view and you also see their reaction to events that unfold.

Although they may criticize and talk about the US with scorn, I believe most foreigners (at least the developed world) rely on the US to do the heavy work in the world for them. They expect that they can always count on Uncle Sam to solve the world's problems while they complain about the US doing that very thing. Secretly, at heart, they want America to be strong so they don't have to be.

I am starting to sense genuine concern overseas about Barak Obama. The world is already worried about his protectionist leanings. Today, I heard many comments from business colleagues here in Bermuda (mostly English, Canadians, and natives) about the Obama surrogates attempting to discredit McCain's military service. The main comment was, "How can his campaign say these things when Obama never served? It is so arrogant and dishonest." Or, "McCain was being tortured and was given an opportunity to leave - he stayed with his comrades for several more years! Obama sounds like he would do anything to get elected - you can't trust him."

Now I am hearing that Obama is laying the groundwork to flip on Iraq as well - in addition to FISA, campaign finance, town hall meetings, etc. etc.

Who would you want in the Oval Office - a person who while being tortured made the decision to stay? (go ahead and break my arms again for a few more years - I'm not leaving without my fellow prisoners).

Or a person who obviously will do anything, say anything and risk anything to further himself and get elected?

That is the change he is promising - he will change, flip flop, and do whatever it takes to get what he wants. Who cares what is the right thing to do.

I think Obama would have left the Hanoi Hilton in a heartbeat.