Tuesday Edition

dispatches from the new world of work

Caught In the Act!

I have worked relentlessly to keep this Blog apolitical. For at least two reasons: (1) We are about enterprise management. (With a few VT farm pictures thrown in from time to time.) (2) When a Blog "turns political," then intemperate remarks become the norm—I have spent the better part of the last two months beating up people of every stripe over intemperate language used concerning our presidential candidates.

I think I've had some success in staying apolitical. Nonetheless, the New York Times blew my cover with a lengthy 28 October article in the Technology section that pitted me vs. my great friend Carly Fiorina concerning the election. She is a senior McCain campaign advisor. I was nabbed by YouTube giving the keynote at an Obama rally in Southern Vermont.

I am an Obama supporter, and, having been caught in the act relative to this Blog, I will tell you very succinctly why:

1. I think the time has come to pass the torch to the next generation, and I believe Mr Obama would be an excellent symbol of a new generation of leader. (I think Mr McCain has the haggard look of yesterday, and is, like myself, advertised to be a cranky old man. Age matters—take it from me, and feel free to wish me "happy 66th" on 7 November.)


2. In the spirit of the above, I think Mr Obama would represent a new page overseas for America. Our image is ragged, and I think Mr Obama could and would go a long way toward "bringing America back" to the status of "beacon for the world." (I fear Mr McCain might, on this dimension, project as a continuation of the Bush years.)


3. Concerning foreign affairs, I believe Mr Obama has the disposition and intellect to deal, as best anyone can, with the difficult security challenges we confront; among other things our major problems are likely to be with us for decades—and cannot primarily be dealt with by aircraft carrier superiority, a tough thing for a true blue Navy man to admit. I believe Mr Obama meets the Churchillian standard of "jaw jaw beats war war." I am fearful of Mr McCain's bellicosity and perhaps some volatility. (Unlike the case of Mr Clinton, I also have no doubt that Mr Obama would quickly gain the respect of the U.S. military—as a hot-war veteran, I have no concerns at all on that dimension.)


4. Colin Powell was persuasive.


5. As to experience, I am not troubled by Mr Obama's resume. Surviving Chicago politics, among other things, is no cakewalk—and, also, Mr Obama would be older than either Mr Kennedy or Mr Clinton was upon taking the oath of office. His remarkable cool and measured approach throughout this torrid and lengthy and, at times, bitter campaign suggest to me that he in his own fashion meets the "maturity" test as well or better than any President of any age that I have experienced, with perhaps the exception of Mr Reagan.


6. I sadly believe that Ms Palin is not ready to be Commander-in-Chief on many dimensions. Alas, I have little respect for her, and my McCain diehard friends feel as strongly as I do—almost without fail. I think the selection of Ms Palin does not reflect well on Mr McCain or his "country first" rhetoric. She is a "strong negative" in my assessment of the McCain candidacy. (Understatement.)


7. The economy is as abiding an issue as national security, and I believe Mr Obama would be able to do as well as anyone could in dealing with it. I am very impressed with his principal advisors, including Mssrs Volker, Rubin, Summers, and Buffett—none could be called an ideologue in any way, shape, or form.


8. Though I am an avowed supporter of undiluted capitalism (my faith, like Mr Greenspan's, is being sorely tested), I believe that the growing inequity in America is a clear and present danger of the first order. As Mr Buffett said, and I paraphrase, "There's a problem when my secretary has a higher marginal tax rate than I do." It is time for a focus on the middle class and those not quite there, and I believe Mr Obama has an abiding edge in that regard. (I buy his tax policy, though it will not help my net worth—as stated, and simply put, those with incomes less than $250,000 will see their taxes reduced; this encompasses, also, the vast majority of small business and I am a rabid small business advocate.) As to the "redistributionist" talk, if we wanted to erase re-distribution, we'd have to begin by wiping out Medicaid and Medicare and the progressive income tax of 90 years standing and cut the education budget, among others, to approximately zero. In short, I trust Mr Obama with the economy more than Mr McCain. As to the "threat" of a significant Democratic majority across the board, there may be problems, but I have a hard time imagining Congress pushing Mr Obama around. (NB: Though I probably would have come down on the Obama side in any event, I would have given McCain far more consideration, especially concerning economic affairs, and, of course, succession, if Mr Romney had been his running mate.)


9. I neither want a conservative Supreme Court nor a liberal Court. The swing to the conservative end of the scale would likely exceed my comfort level if Mr McCain had two or three vacancies to fill.

In 1960, I was 18—but the voting age was 21. Mr Eisenhower was an effective President, a great occupant of the office for 1952-1960. But Mr Kennedy represented a sprightly America embracing its next chapter with matchless vigor and optimism. In a way, in 2008 I have the chance to finally cast my "Kennedy vote"—and I have decided to do so by checking the Obama box on my ballot. (Actually, I already have.)

It is not my goal here to convince a single soul concerning next Tuesday's election. It has been my goal here to be "transparent" at tompeters.com concerning a topic that has captivated all of our attention. (This Blog is one of my true loves—and I will go to great lengths to protect what it stands for.)

Thank you for your attention if you have read this far.

(I am prepared for a deluge of huffy Comments, which is fair enough. I would prefer no positive Comments—I am not trying to persuade or seeking mates, as I said; I am simply stating my view to our community.)

Tom Peters posted this on 11/01/08.


Comments

From here in the UK, there is a clear if simplistic perception of the two candidates. Obama = change and McCain = continuity. Given, I'm afraid to have to say, the damage done to America's reputation by 8 years of President Bush and the recent sub-prime crisis, there is a very strong preference for Mr. Obama. Deserved or not, America has a reputation for insularity and I know every leader will put his own country's interests first; however, Mr. Obama seems to me far likelier to successfully balance his national interest with managing America's role as, in the short to medium term, the only real world superpower.

From my own point of view I agree with most of what Tom says (I know you wanted debate!) but I'd add one point. From what I've seen, Mrs. Palin is simply not ready for office but Mr. Biden appears to be a very substantial figure. The Obama / Biden ticket appears from this side of the world to be a far more appropriate choice.

Posted by Mark JF at November 1, 2008 7:01 AM




It might be interesting to note that the present U.S. presidential election has a game-changing impact not only on the destiny of Americans, but also on the destiny of millions outside of it on either side- those of my ilk who invest their talent and future in the "knowledge-world", and those on the other, rabid side of the fence.

Jay, from Bangalore

Posted by Jayakumar hariharan at November 1, 2008 7:06 AM




Tom

I appreciate your approach to business. I am disappointed in your choice of President (as you might be in mine). I respect your selection, understand it, but do not agree.

Thanks for suggesting that we (as business leaders) must take a stand in light of the current environment. I will now craft my version for my blog.

-ski

Posted by Jeff 'SKI' Kinsey at November 1, 2008 7:11 AM




Time will tell.

Posted by David Porter at November 1, 2008 7:26 AM




I will be voting for McCain but not necessarily because I disagree with everything you stated.

On a side note, however, I traveled internationally considerably during Clinton's years as President as well as now and I honestly don't see a difference in America's perceptions abroad. Our reputation (I'm a Patriot to the core) hasn't been 'great' since after the Cold War (give or take). The media is destroying us from the inside out, encouraging us to believe things about ourselves that simply are not true, and in the process bringing us down abroad as well. Every election is billed as the 'most important in our lifetime' which may be true, but not for the reasons implied. Every election is billed as 'dirty' or 'contentious'. A quick study of history shows things are really not much different with regards to messages (only the medium). We just have such a short memory.

I do have faith in our country regardless of who is President. As a group of citizens, we are pretty darn smart and find a way to self-correct when we've gone wrong, even if it takes many years to make that correction.

Posted by Sgt Boz at November 1, 2008 7:31 AM




Thank you all for these excellent comments. Especially Jeff, for a perfectly stated difference of opinion. We'll check your blog for the opposing view.

Posted by cathy mosca at November 1, 2008 7:34 AM




Tom, please remember to kick Obama in the backside if he fails to deliver on his promise of change. The election matters too in this neck of the Kalahari, as I have lost 35% of my pension, and I need someone to fix it! I don't think you have really explained how Obama is going fix it at a global level.
Personally, I think McCain is a hillbilly technologist, http://thinkingproblemmanagement.blogspot.com/2008/10/think-again-mccain.html

Posted by Ronald at November 1, 2008 7:38 AM




I am for Obama as well, albeit without a vote to cast. But David's wise words of caution should be heeded - it's what you do in power that counts, not what you say to get there.

Posted by Rob at November 1, 2008 7:42 AM




Like you, I was too young (5) to take any part when my country was taken over by a young charismatic leader, the country needed a change. Growing up I saw all kind of intelligent people, intellectuals, students, professors, all embracing the young lawyer's cause, giving him a total vote of confidence, which he used to eliminate all opposition, destroy the economy and perpetuate himself in power for 50 years. Many of those "intelligent" people died in front of a firing squad, others suffered long prison and most ended up living in Miami, Spain or whatever country gave them refuge. You will tell me this is different, this is America but I can't help to see the similarities. I do not like Obama's passion to speak in front of multitudes (why = refer to Venezuela's Chavez, Cuba's Castro and why not = Hitler and Mussolini). I hope I'm wrong, since he is posed to win I will pray for the next 4 years that I was totally stupid by thinking this way.
I think you are unfair to Ms. Palin. I started liking her after reading her interview with Investors Business Daily. I think she is a lot clever than the liberal media gives her credit for. The one thing I do agree with you: Republicans will pay for not supporting Romney, by far the best candidate they could get.
I'm not voting: I think Mr. MCain will be the ideal president were we to fight WW II again, but we are not. I still do not like Obama's ideas.

Posted by Ricardo Ortega at November 1, 2008 7:46 AM




Good luck to all US ciitizens whichever way your election goes - I will be watching from UK intently on TV on Thursday.

To me it’s refreshing to see a young man like Mr Obama talking with optimism and passion. I have read that he wins hearts and minds and that to me is more important than criticism of inexperience. When hearts and minds are 'up for grabs' it usually means people are desperate for change. I am sure his opponents might say he is not experienced enough but I love this quote;

“Yes I know I am young and inexperienced but it is a fault I am remedying every day.” William Pitt on becoming Prime Minister at age 25 in 1783

From this side of the pond I like the feeling of having someone in the world spotlight that exudes energy, enthusiasm, passion and most of all HOPE the like of which I’ve not seen for the last few years in politics. Most politicians in the UK in the last decade suffer the disease of ‘sameness’ i.e. charisma challenged males – white - middle-aged - middle-class - out of the same mass produced mould.

Mr Obama seems different – I hope he is different and I wish him well. We need hope more than ever.

Posted by Trevor Gay at November 1, 2008 7:46 AM




For all the talk of Hope I sure didnt feel that his infomercial was a beacon of optimism the other night. A rather negative, dour and pessimistic view of American society.

His presentation of American business as boogeyman in almost every part of the American experience is deeply distrubing to me (energy, health care, pharma, military, jobs over seas, housing) and his recipe of more government in every one of those sectors is downright terrifying.

I am not sure I want the post office mentality in my healthcare system.

I think the Republicans have earned thier time on the bench and McCain's pick of Palin was just dreadful. I do fear that when we have all stopped drinking the Obama kool-aid and see what we actually voted for that a rather significant level of buyers remorse will settle in.

Much will depend on how he governs. Does he protect Lieberman? Does he appoint a partisan bulldog like Emanuel to be his Chief of Staff-what actions does he take in his first 200 days...

Time will tell. But imho it is hard to be a champion of small business and be an Obama supporter at the same time-perhaps Tom you need to re-evaluate the "small business" champion label that you wear so proudly.

Posted by John Cunneen at November 1, 2008 9:04 AM




"I do have faith in our country regardless of who is President. As a group of citizens, we are pretty darn smart and find a way to self-correct when we've gone wrong, even if it takes many years to make that correction."

Sgt Boz nails it for me. This blog has been a terrific respite from the endless political spin and that is greatly appreciated! This election cycle has convinced me that real change in this country will occur only through political reform. More parties, more choices, campaign finance reform, real debates and "citizen" access to candidates. As for the media...the lines between news, opinion, entertainment, and journalism have disappeared. How about "facts"...without the filters and bias by the endless stream of journalists, political "strategists", and assorted talking heads.

I find there is a certain irony in the fact that the candidate who doesn't take earmarks, kept his word on how his campaign would be financed, and who votes with the party line less than his opponent would not be labeled the candidate who could bring change. Both candidates merely reflect the agenda of their party however so it is still going to be four more years of less than effective policies and programs repackaged regardless of who wins. It's not how much you spend on programs like health care and education, it's how it gets spent. More bureaucrats and government oversight haven't been a good investment in the past and are likely get the same result in the future. Style and spin over substance. The person whom I thought would have been the best person to lead this country at this time, Colin Powell, was not a candidate. Maybe next time we will have a candidate of General Powell's knowledge, experience, and leadership ability to vote for...

The upside however is terrific! Thanks to folks like Tom, Sgt Boz, and all veterans past and present we can rejoice in the fact that we have a choice! This election cycle is soon to end. I for one will make it a point to go out and become active in my community again. It's time to put the "citizen" back in citizen government and remind our elected officials they ultimately represent our interests, not their own.

Posted by Dave Wheeler at November 1, 2008 9:59 AM




"I for one will make it a point to go out and become active in my community again. It's time to put the 'citizen' back in citizen government and remind our elected officials they ultimately represent our interests, not their own."

Brilliant, Dave! When folks bitch about government in a seminar, my automatic response is, "So why don't you run for the schoolboard," or whatever. This of course is harder in Milwaukee than in Tinmouth VT. But there are always things of abiding local significance to get involved in. The world is actually not all that flat--and Local Engagement is essential. Oh, indeed, that we could keep our activist passion for the public good as high next week as it is this week!!

Posted by tom peters at November 1, 2008 10:44 AM




I have read your blog for a while but never commented. Your post has driven me to post. I want to say well done, well reasoned and thank you. It? too bad everyone isn´t as thoughtful.
Happy 66th!

Posted by Laurent Courtines at November 1, 2008 11:38 AM




Dear Tom,
Thank you for clearly stating your reasons for supporting the candidacy of Barack Obama. You wowed me! I am thrilled.
Cheers!
Peter

Posted by Peter McKay at November 1, 2008 12:15 PM




Tom, thank you for a mostly objective viewpoint and one that did not appeal to a fear motive. It is refreshing.

Posted by Dean at November 1, 2008 3:34 PM




Tom,

As a manager and advisor in business, you would have done fine to remain mum on the issue. I believe that most Americans are quite exhausted with this process and have broader "issues" to consider than what our favorite celebrity/blogger/business leader may be thinking.

The United States is becoming quite trendy with regard to our first black President and gay marriage debates. I'm afraid that voters are becoming more attracted to "trends" than the "issues". I mean, how many inexperienced, white, liberal politicians has Colin Powell endorsed prior to Obama? Zero... Many have suggested that he is supporting Obama because of color; I doubt he would communicate such a revelation overtly. But then again, there is the whole weapons of mass destruction thing hanging over Powell's head.

Maybe we'll have a homosexual candidate four years from now and that will become the new trend, reflecting how we've become even more hip as a country. I wonder how we would handle the first lady issues surrounding that scenario?

I'll just be glad when this is over, because realistically, these candidates will be able to do very little to fend off the problems of today's government and spiraling financial systems.

I vote that we as Americans begin to take our country back one dollar at a time. Big government = Big failure. Long live the approach by Bach Anon in his book Dropping Almonds. Until honesty/integrity resurface in our government/corporations, we'll all be left to drop almonds.

Thanks for the post and I'm happy to cancel out your vote on Tuesday.

My birthday is on the 8th of this month. Happy birthday friend and keep on keeping on.

Posted by Scott at November 1, 2008 5:36 PM




then you can always see how the rest of the world would vote. (well at least the digitally enabled world.)
http://www.iftheworldcouldvote.com/

Posted by erik hansen at November 1, 2008 5:54 PM




Those of us who are gay really do not appreciate having a request for human dignity and basic rights to enter into committed relationships with those we love as "trendy." It trivializes what is a very serious issue.

Posted by Jeffrey at November 1, 2008 9:37 PM




It is unfortunate that modern politics trivializes everything, turning even the most serious topics into photo opportunities and sound-bites. But that is what we deserve when our candidates are more eager to appear on SNL than on probing News interviews.

Posted by Mike L. at November 2, 2008 7:38 AM




Mike L – that’s a great observation.

I wonder whether it is that candidates are in fact ‘eager’ or whether it is simply a pragmatic approach responding to demands of the consumer.

We have been conditioned to believe sound bite politics is all we have time for. Candidates are therefore tactically using the media - which we apparently crave - to get over their point.

When I look at some of the politicians here in the UK in front of camera they hardly come across as being eager to be there –quite the opposite.

I guess what I’m saying is that we as consumers are as much to blame as the politicians. It is we who demand this stuff it seems – I presume broadcasting companies don’t deliberately throw money down the drain so they must believe they are responding to consumer wishes.

The best anecdote I recall on this whole issue is when news broke of a sexual scandal of a senior Conservative Cabinet Minister at the time of the Tory Party Annual conference whilst Mrs Thatcher was leader of the Party and Prime Minister. On an early morning TV interview the day the story broke Mrs T was heavily criticising what she called the ‘gutter press’ for reporting such triviality when there were far more pressing issues in the country to deal with. The very smart reporter informed her that the hotel where she and all her Tory ministers were staying had sold out of all the tabloid newspapers that morning because everyone wanted to read about the scandal.

I am certainly not defending politicians for using sound bite politics but I am saying they are merely reflecting society.

I would love nothing more than to hear rich and balanced debate about really important issues - like for instance – why the hell do we need to go to war? – Instead of that the public has to rely on ‘sound bite’ information. This may not tell the whole truth - we need to drill down through the sound bites.

I wonder if we've become far too impatient with detail of the really important stuff. My question is – can we really blame politicians for that or should we look in the mirror? My own feeling as an avowed pragmatist is the cat escaped from the bag many years ago and we now just have to make the best of it and seek our own truth as individuals.

Posted by Trevor Gay at November 2, 2008 8:59 AM




The candidate of fear: http://www.olavodecarvalho.org/english/articles/081024dc_en.html

Posted by Fabio Platero at November 2, 2008 9:00 AM




Here in the USA, we'll see on tuesday if sound bite politics is still working. At the moment, it seems like the McCain campaign is all about sound bites - Obama much less so.
If Obama wins, I think it will show that sound bites have less effect than they did in the past.


Posted by zed at November 2, 2008 9:50 AM




Some very thoughtful and well-crafted opinions here. I also applaud Boz for his true national patriotism. Like him, I'm more optimistic about the changes we can bring ourselves rather than relying solely upon our nation's leader.

(That said - and way off-topic - I'm more than a little disappointed that Colin Powell wasn't himself cast as a Presidential candidate.)

More than anything else, I'm just glad to finally see an end to the Bush era. Sweet mercy, anything new has to be at least a little better!

Posted by Rob O. at November 2, 2008 9:59 AM




I think you are spot on, zed, especially when there is top of the mind economic concerns for voters.

The problem, it seems to me, that the McCain has is lack of resources and the need for reach and impact, but the problem is that it is too narrowly focused and their method is counterproductive - they are holding on to the crossover Republicans are turned off by these tactics. I expect these voters will far outweigh the "Bradley effect".

To me democracy is a way of life, so the fact that we genuinely disagree should not be a problem, but evidence the process is working. Politics is pervasive, so it is not possible to be "unpolitical". For example, if a business person puts people first, they are not just been expedient.

Posted by wmmbb at November 2, 2008 10:38 AM




Some interesting debate...
Whilst in the UK of course we have no vote, we still have some very vested interests in the outcome: I care passionately about who will be The Next President. It really will affect us all. Yesterday's 'Guardian' newspaper had an excellent leader on this 'A New Leader For A New Era' and why - here in the UK - it counts.
http://tinyurl.com/5smpdw

Our fingers are crossed...

Posted by Ian Sanders at November 2, 2008 12:37 PM




Jeffrey,

I don't remember writing anything about human rights and dignity with regard to homosexual relationships. I was merely pointing out that issues have become more "trendy" than anything else at this stage of the game. There are a handful of African Americans voting for Barack because he's black and that's it, not because of his policies.

I believe it was the Howard Stern show that recently took to the steets of Harlem with McCain's policies to see which candidate people of the community supported. Many people said they supported Obama because of his willingness to keep the troops in Iraq and because he opposed stem cell research. Many citizens don't bother to educate themselves anymore with regard to these issues. Not to forget, cable news networks are the least credible journalists in recent history, far surpassing the tabloid journalists.

Almost as absurd as me saying that I'm voting for McCain because I'm white, or I'm opposed to gay marriage because I'm not gay. This is trendy my friend...

Your argument on human dignity and basic rights is flawed because you're assumimg that I don't provide this to you already (individually). Once again, it doesn't matter that we're all created equal or entitled to the same benefits under the Bill of Rights in this country, it has to do with "I want to have the same ceremony as a man and woman and I want that ceremony to be recognized in the same manner (legally) by the government."

Let's spread the wealth and make sure our entitlement system continues to flourish. I don't mind gay marriage, but I wish that homosexuals weren't so interested in making the process just like heterosexuals. And yes, the whole man and wife thing is sacred to me as a person. There are moral differences that should be discussed first before we start talking about human rights and dignity.

The argument that you should have the same things I have is not far from the direction our socialistic policies are taking us. Maybe all workers should have the same rights even though they contribute at different levels. Illegal immigrants benefit from our taxpayer dollars and we choose to keep them here. Not only that, they have the balls/ovaries to strike when they feel like they're being threatened with their employment security illegally in our country. I wonder what Jefferson would think?

Like I said earlier, we're more concerned with trends than the issues...

Posted by Scott at November 2, 2008 1:00 PM




Hey Scott,
you don't like it when someone thinks they
know that the only reason you are voting for McCain is because he is white, but you have no problem accusing Powell of doing the same sort of thing.
Just pointing that out in case you didn't notice.


Posted by zed at November 2, 2008 2:17 PM




Given that the result of the US election has such a massive impact on the rest of the world isn't it time that we (as in the rest of the world) got a vote too :-)

Posted by PaulH at November 2, 2008 2:37 PM




Let us now return to Dispatches from the New World of Work.

My name is David Porter and I approve this post.

Posted by David Porter at November 2, 2008 3:13 PM




TP - Thank you for the clarity with which you voiced your choice and the passion that exudes from your youtube endorsement. You most certainly have A Passion for Excellence and a spirit which calls for us all to move forever forward. Barack Obama too has this passion. He is a forward thinking leader who will probably lead much more to the center than believed. Together we will bring the needed change. Many thanks, TP. We are grateful for your years of leadership.

Scott - You make some good points here, thank you. But, my friend, you miss a very important element - the human element. Human beings of all ilk often respond viscerally to past injustice and to those of their own kind, except, of course, for the likes of Clarence Thomas. (OK, my bad!) I would assume, however, that those in Harlem would not collectively vote, for example, for Eddie Murphy for president. He's black. By the way, blacks did not vote for Jesse Jackson, Al Sharpton or Carol Mosley Braun en masse. They are all black and they all ran for the presidency. Those in Harlem sense, as so many others, the winds of change. The excitement of a disenfranchised people in the political process is not a bad thing.

Sometimes our words are loftier than our actions, as were those of the founding fathers. The real human element was disregarded; their actions were far beneath the nobility of their speech. There was a serious disconnection between policy and people. If those in Harlem are identifying with Barack for less than policy-driven reasons, I would not disparage them. They undoubtedly sense that Barack Obama, the community organizer, is down with the people, all of the people and because of this they sense that he has a real chance of becoming the next president of the United States.

Remember blacks generally had to be warmed to Barack Obama. Many voted for Hillary Clinton in the primary; they voted their economic interest. I agree that there are blacks who will vote for Barack Obama because he is black. But you can be assured that there are those in the hills of Virginia who are below the poverty level who would benefit from Barack Obama's plan but will vote instead for John McCain based solely on race. We are as Nietzsche said, “All Too Human.” But we can indeed rise above mere human instincts to betterment for us all.

erik - Thank you for the website. If Barack Obama is elected there will be a collective release in the world en masse. The world seems to be watching and many appear just as anxious as we are. I have many friends abroad who are following the election as closely as we are. As our neighbors are becoming closer and closer the opinion of the world is no small observance. We are going to have to return to better diplomacy. Let's begin now with the most diplomatic candidate whose message is change. Vote for change!

And, TP, since you do not wish for agreement let me say that I UTTERLY DISAGREE with your desire NOT to persuade others to vote for Barack Obama here. I WHOLLY WISH to do the exact opposite. But if I'm not successful, I’m really cool with that too! There's no love lost.

Posted by Judith Ellis at November 2, 2008 4:16 PM




I'm white and one of a the multitude of reasons I'm voting for Obama is because he is black.
The racial divide in our country in one of the main enablers of the growth extreme right wing we've seen since the days of Richard Nixon.
Obama's race (if he becomes a great President) will do much to heal this divide. In some ways the divide is more hurtfull to whites than blacks because most white people do not realize how the divide has held them back. It has less to do with jobs they might have lost to afirmative action than it does to how many whites have voted against thier own interest for many years due to subtle racism. Blacks are fully aware of the consequences of the racial divide.
If Obama becomes a great President in the minds of white people as well as blacks, there will bit of liberation achieved by everyone.

Posted by zed at November 2, 2008 6:33 PM




"My name is David Porter and I approve this post."

David Porter, or David the porter??

Posted by tom peters at November 2, 2008 6:57 PM




Judith, I absolutely wish to persuade (hence the speech YouTube caught);it's that I am determined not to use this space to that end!

Posted by tom peters at November 2, 2008 7:00 PM




TP - I understand, completely. I guess my failed attempt at a bit of closing comedy relief didn't read terribly well. Would that I had Senator McCain's speech writer for that Al Smith Memorial Dinner or for the recent SNL skits. Did you catch these? When he's not scary, he can be a very funny man. Most would admit that Senator McCain comedic timing is very good and we all appreciate his service to our country. I am, however, utterly unimpressed with the way he has run his campaign.

In fact, I have been terribly disappointed with the McCain whom my brother voted for in 2000. This McCain, as my brother describes him then, is not the McCain he has come to know through this campaign. I still don't know how Senator McCain wishes to lead besides cutting taxes for the upper percentage of tax payers. He has spent his entire time negating Barack Obama and anybody with whom he may have associated. What kind of leadership is this?

A dear friend knows the esteemed scholar, the Edward Said distinguished professor at Columbia University, Dr. Rashid Khalidi and his librarian wife, Mona very well. He was incensed, as was I, with the defamation of his character. Politics aside, this man is a respected scholar and family man. To suggest that he is suspect because he is Palestinian is disgraceful, not to mention that Senator Obama must be suspect too because he knows him.

It is this divisiviness which we do not wish to have in a leader.

zed - As usual, I appreciate your openness. Thank you.

Posted by Judith Ellis at November 2, 2008 8:07 PM




Zed,

I was actually referring to the absurdity of my own comments, not standing on a particular platform. I'm not voting for McCain based on his color; please read a little closer for clarity.

Maybe Colin Powell is gettting all wrapped up in the rah-rah for Obama as well; however, he has never supported liberal, inexperienced, white politicians in the past? We went to war based on Colin's findings of weapons of mass destruction to the UN. A war that Barack wants us to vacate very early in his term (I happen to agree with him).

Judith----I would vote for Eddie Murphy tomorrow.

Long live the blog...

Posted by Scott at November 2, 2008 8:30 PM




How about David the plumber?? Now that has a Republican ring to it.

Posted by Scott at November 2, 2008 8:32 PM




No huffy comments, but some very concerned reactions.

"Mr Obama would be an excellent symbol of a new generation of leader"--maybe, but is not substance more important than style?

"Colin Powell was persuasive"--We must have watched 2 different events.

"I am not troubled by Mr Obama's resume"--age is not important; ideology and associations are. But these critical issues are being blindly ignored.

"I sadly believe that Ms Palin is not ready to be Commander-in-Chief on many dimensions"--but Joe Biden is more ready to be Commander-in-Chief? The truth here is that Palin is more qualified than Obama.

"Alas, I have little respect for her"--but you have more respect for Joe Biden? Not a sign of good judgment.

"I am very impressed with his principal advisors, including . . . Rubin . . . "--Rubin? Not an ideologue?

"I trust Mr Obama with the economy more than Mr McCain"--I truly don't see how someone with education and knowledge could make such a statement. What credentials of any kind does Obama have to merit anyone's trust on "the economy"?

A lot of people are blaming George Bush for everything in the world, including the price of tea in China, and they would vote for anyone the Democrats nominated, including The Devil Himself, just to vote against George Bush.

Because of this, a lot of people have not looked closely at Obama--his socialist/marxist views, the troubling unknowns about his past, his lack of engagement in the Senate. Who cares? He has great teeth! We love him! He makes us feel good!

Those who believe that Obama will bring a "new day" are 100% correct--except that they, the voters who will elect Obama, have no idea what that "new day" will be like.

Posted by Timothy Hadley at November 2, 2008 8:49 PM




TP - Whatever gets us through the night.

Posted by David Porter at November 2, 2008 9:20 PM




Not a plumber but I did stay at a Holiday Inn Express last night.

Posted by David Porter at November 2, 2008 9:26 PM




Happy birthday for the 7th Tom! The day you turned 50 I was getting married. So I'm guessing that was a great day for each of us!

I can't resist - from where I sit in Oz, I think you're on the money!

Posted by Gregg Utting at November 2, 2008 9:51 PM




Tom

Obama has an Inauguration Speech to write and to deliver - here is my draft for him to consider....

Theme --- Prepare yourself to make a difference through personal sacrifice?

"One thing is clear - the next decade is going to be very different to the last. This difference will have a universal impact and yet it will also impact directly upon you as an individual.

We all have to make sacrifices if we are to reap the enormous benefits of these times. By the way of helping you to set your agenda for the next 10 years let me pose a few simple questions to each of you.

How much education do you have? How much knowledge do you possess? How creative are you with ideas and change? How do you intend to live and work over the next 5 to 10 years? How much do you think you have to change - your habits, mindsets, and ways of thinking about your world if you are to fully benefit from the emerging global economy?

If you are deficient in education or work choices or flexibility of mind and habit then you will have to sacrifice more than you might have been expecting to reap the huge benefits coming our way over the next 10 years.

Ahead is a period of great opportunities. These opportunities are greater for the fact that they were almost completely unexpected just 5 years ago. The challenge ahead for those of you who want to make the most of your opportunities are few but nonetheless important.

First and foremost you have to embrace new technology. This might well mean you have to sacrifice as you are forced to retrain, move jobs, move location, and generally rearrange your life's priorities.

As I stand before you as your newly elected President there is one self evident fact - the new global economy is here to stay.

This economy is forming a new middle class that lives in China, India, Asia, Africa, and South America. Americans have to workout where we fit in this new economic schema. You have to work out were you fit and what you can bring to the table so that your family might benefit from all the new prosperity that is coming our way.

Second all Americans, and that includes YOU, must now accept the challenge of living, working, and doing business on a green planet. A planet that has to dramatically and quickly lower its carbon footprint.

Accepting this challenge is not easy because it means taking on some real sacrifices. It means changing habits, mindsets, and ways of thinking that have been with you all your life. It means becoming a minimalist where carbon is concerned which, in turn, means having and using less of most of what you take for granted today. Are you preparing to go green in your life, at work, and within your community?

Third some of you have to be prepared to put yourselves in "harms way" as we continue to engage our enemies wherever they may be.

These are not conflicts of our choosing and if we can negotiate a peace to end them then we will BUT, be assured sometimes we have to fight for our freedom as others have fought for on our behalf in the distance and the recent past.

Fourth we all have to sacrifice if we are to build a new sense of "social cohesion" across the length and the breath of America. The gap between our haves and our havenots must be closed. We can no longer merely continue to "paper over" these gaps with increased entitlements or earmarked grants from Washington.

Instead all Americans must now adopt a "zero tolerance" for any lack of transparency, accountability, or equity within our Governments, businesses, or communities.

We can no longer tolerate the "self-centered" actions of those who like to paper over the cracks to make themselves look good, those who want to deny inequality of opportunity because they fear competition, or those who are not prepared to be held fully accountable for their own actions.

Finally my administration will be transparent, accountable, and equitable in all its dealings with you and your community. God Bless America!"

Richard.


Posted by Richard Lipscombe at November 2, 2008 10:23 PM




Tom - We share a birthday on the 7th - of course you are "much" older (calm down - just a few years) and have kept your rose-tinted glasses from the '60's, whether you want to admit it or not. I have read all of your books avidly and with great benefit. I am quite surprised that you apparantly have decided to make 'Pollyana" your middle name - or perhaps are now just realizing your "inner self". I hope you are correct in your assessments, but also recognize that - either way - you have the economic and social protection that most Americans lack and will suffer for during the next decade. One of your great virtues has been being an "equal opportunity curmudgeon". Happy birthday, anyway.
I'll lift a fine glass of Brunello in your honor on our birthday.

Posted by Randy at November 2, 2008 10:44 PM




OK, Scott, I see what tip you're on. You're a very funny man. Ha!

Posted by Judith Ellis at November 2, 2008 10:53 PM




"We went to war based on Colin's findings of weapons of mass destruction to the UN."

This statment is not true, by the way, Scott. The findings were not Colin Powell's. But it is true that he became the good general when it appeared that he clearly preferred diplomacy over war.

I was not for this war and, like you, I want to get out of Iraq responsibly, but as soon as possible.

Posted by Judith Ellis at November 2, 2008 11:28 PM




You are a hero to me, but I respectfully disagree with you, Mr. Peters. There are a variety of reasons, but I'll focus on one.

Didn't this blog once champion women, especially as leaders? But now you seem to have bought into the notion that a successful and popular governor of a state, a gutsy mother of 5 (!!) to boot, is wholly unqualified for the vice presidency; whereas a pure academic with shady allegiances and ABSOLUTELY no track record is eminently ready for the presidency.

Sorry, but at least to this humble reader, your weird inconsistency on this is hard to accept.

Posted by al at November 3, 2008 3:05 AM




Tom,

open and honest as ever.

Patrick

Posted by Patrick at November 3, 2008 3:08 AM




Tom, many thanks for posting your views... I have not read any of the comments so far.. but a BIG THANK YOU for hving stated your thoughts on such a topic.

I think the world really needs someone like Obama and so does the USA. I really do not understand how so many ppl in the USA vote for the McCain/Palin combination... beats logic!

cheers.. and thank you again!!!

george

Posted by George at November 3, 2008 3:33 AM




One of my favourite leadership quotes is from President Harry S Truman: "Men make history, and not the other way around. In periods where there is no leadership, society stands still. Progress occurs when courageous, skillful leaders seize the opportunity to change things for the better."

Of course it's a judgement call but it's not a bad test to apply to this, or any other, election.

Posted by Mark JF at November 3, 2008 3:37 AM




G'day,

Its such a pity that it's all going to hell for whoever you decide to be the next President of the country that so affects the rest of the world.

Check this out, http://www.chrismartenson.com/ take the Crash Course and then tell us how you think your new President should fix it...

Cheers

Col

Posted by Col H at November 3, 2008 6:10 AM




You work "relentlessly to keep the blog apolitical". But cave one day before the election.

You and Colin Powell are quite a pair!

Posted by Tom at November 3, 2008 7:55 AM




Oh Judas, I mean Judith,

It was Mr. Powell that took the case to the UN for weapons of mass destruction. While the CIA, FBI, and other military intel were feeding him information, he is the ONE that made the case to the UN (I remember watching this on tv). He held up a vial that looked like a Urine Analysis and stated such proof. For all we know, the vial could have contained Mr. Bush's urine.

Anwho, we are in agreement that the war needs to be ended responsibly and quickly. We can't afford it anyway, the US is broke going on broker. I really wanted cheaper gas from the beginning and that didn't pan out either...

Posted by Scott at November 3, 2008 8:27 AM




Al - It is not about electing just anything in a skirt with winking eyes, like any man with a dark hue and wooly hair to the Supreme Court. It is about competence; Sarah Palin is supremely unqualified for the presidency. Anybody who is so utterly non-curious that cannot speak clearly to ANY issue enough to put coherent sentences together is not competent for many offices, let alone the highest office in the land.

Scott - I see that you have altered your understanding regarding whose findings the WMDs were. This is good. The case was taken to the UN after many months of Powell not coming out for the war based on those WMDs. Of course you remember watching it on TV. WE ALL DO! But do you remember at all the decisions that went beforehand? It was obvious Powell had to be utterly convinced by bogus intelligence before he spoke before the UN.

In fact, Powell was called a traitor for not coming out for the war when the warmongers were declaring doom for America early on. It is believed that Powell fought against this intelligence, hence his delay before the UN. He was, after all, the Secretary of State. It was quite painful watching his appearance, as it was obvious that he was not a warmonger. I would agree, however, that it was literally a fatal mistake on America's part. Many lives were lost unnecessarily and spending has gotten out of control.

By the way, do you so readily believe everything you see on TV?

Posted by Judith Ellis at November 3, 2008 9:36 AM




Tom,

I am disappointed to hear your support for Obama. Obama does respresent change, but not the change we need for America. His views on Israel, spreading the wealth by taken from the rich (a moving target) to give to the poor (even if they don't pay taxes) and moral issues makes Obama a very dangerous candidate.

Based on all your books and speeches, Obama represents the complete opposite of what you have preached over the years. I don't understand (well actually I do) how people can be blind to how wrong this man is for America. It is not about hate or anything else but his voting record and what he has stated in public. That is how I am basing my decision.

Do you not read your own words? Yes, you push for radical thinking and radical change, but it is usually in the best interest of doing what is right for the customer while helping business do better overall. With the taxes Obama wants to raise and put on the "middle class" (if you can ever figure out his definition) it will kill many small businesses and take more of my income. I don't need the government figuring out how to give more of my money away. I do pretty well on my own. The success of this country is resting on 60% of middle class people who pay taxes. The poor get subsidies and the rich (most likely including you) to have several loop wholes to get around taxes. So, putting Obama in leaves me and the 60% to carry the burden of spreading the wealth. HOW IN THE WORLD IS THAT GOOD FOR AMERICA?

This is a set back in my view of your writings. Yeah, I am one person buying a few of your books, but none the less, it is disappointing to hear why you support Obama.

Posted by Cyle at November 3, 2008 10:47 AM




Your post lays out what I wish (and hope) is true, but I am not convinced.

That said, we [Americans] need to focus on the House and the Senate. That is where change will ultimately come from.

Posted by Greg at November 3, 2008 10:54 AM




a) each and everyone of your endorsement points has a very very logical and fact based counter point... that and the fact polititions act in the future much like their past, not their campaign promises

b) those points seemed to have been either missed or dismissed

c) I prefer the people I count on for either entertainment or business advice to have the good sense to keep their political points private

d) my daily reading to tompeters.com has now come to an end. sorry

Posted by tom sullivan at November 3, 2008 12:17 PM




I agree with Tom S.

As well as my subscription to the daily quotes.

Unfortunately if you choose to be in the position like Tom P. is in, taking a stand is not always a good thing.

Here is something I don't understand. Tom P. you are all over how bad health care is today. How do you think the Goverment can do it any better? What one thing have they done to show they can control spending. Democrats are for bigger and bigger. How do they do that? Raise taxes on the Middle Class. Now we here it is from $250,000 down to $120,000. What's next $80,000? Of course at 66 your are probably not as concern about paying for it all. Doesn't Obama's plan go against what you stand for? Less red tape and less big business? Isn't nimble and quick better?

Maybe I am the fool and didn't read between your lines. I would of never guessed you would back the things Obama stands for based on your writings.

And how does Obama show more experience or leadership then Sarah Palin? Palin has showed more of the leadership you write about then Obama talks about.

My stomach is turning after reading this post. One of the people in leadership that I enjoyed reading and listening to. It's like finding out your third grade teacher that you looked up to smokes (or whatever crushes your view of them).

I am confused by this and after a long time fan, sorry to leave you now.

Tom - your post may have more of a backlash then you have anticpate.

Posted by George at November 3, 2008 1:37 PM




Judith,

You're right. Powell voted against the war before he voted for it, much like Obama has with regard to the war and several other platforms. This wasn't a soundbyte from Jimmy the Greek testifying that Obama is a better athlete than McCain because he is black and his genes made him that way. This was Colin Powell, testifying on behalf of the US in front of the UN, that we should go to war because of his apparent diamond in the rough evidence of WMD.

When I watch the events unravel on CSPAN or PBS, especially from Powell's own mouth, I have a tendency to take that as fact.

Anywho, the countdown has begun and this will all come to an end very soon. Thank God for that.

"Read my lips, no new taxes." The end of George Bush senior in his bid for reelection.

Thanks for the healthy debate though...by the way, Obama is a better athlete than McCain, that's why I'm voting for the underdog who can't use the computer or lift his arms over his head. He became permanently disabled based on his service to our country...I admire that about the man if nothing else. Not to mention, Palin is easier on the eyes than Biden.

Posted by Scott at November 3, 2008 1:40 PM




It's been interesting to watch the two contenders over the last few months as they go about their campaigns. It's been Obama who has come across as the more statesmanlike of the two and it would be he who would get my vote were I able to vote in the US elections. I've met with several politicians and various representatives of the two main parties here in the UK and have yet to be impressed by any of them. I interviewed one Cabinet Minister a month after the 1997 General Election and I'm still waiting for the replies to my questions, even though they were skewed to his particular interests relating to the tourist industry. I'd like to think that there will be real change once this election is over and I suspect that Obama may offer that change. All I can say is that it's a good job we're not having an election over here at the moment because I haven't got a clue as to who I would vote for in a UK General Election!

Posted by Keith Rickaby at November 3, 2008 2:17 PM




It seems utterly ridiculous that one would not come to this site again based on the political decision of Tom Peters. I am an Obama supporter and I had not a clue as to who TP would vote for. But if he would have come out for John McCain, IT WOULD NOT STOP ME FROM RECEIVING KNOWLEDGE OR BEING A PART OF A COMMUNITY BASED ON A DIFFERENCE OF OPINION. Do you only do business with people who hold your same opinion? There is a sense of haughtiness and self-righteous evident here. It seems completely lame to disregard the greatness of one based on a political decision. I would not like for you to be a consultant of mine, nor would I recommend you to any others. (I concede that you might say the same of me simply based on my choice for president. But I'm awright with that.) Do you not do business unless there is agreement? How's business, by the way?

Posted by Judith Ellis at November 3, 2008 4:52 PM




Scott - Best...

Posted by Judith Ellis at November 3, 2008 4:52 PM




Judith,

I think you miss the point. It is not the fact that TP is voting for Obama, but rather that he chose to advertise that fact on this blog.

As you said, you had no clue as to who TP would vote for. TP said he "worked relentlessly" to keep his blog apolitical. Yet he chose to change that. And he chose to change that after he voted and one day before the general election.

Posted by Tom at November 3, 2008 5:01 PM




huffy comment follows:

I think that you are overlooking the lack of excellence or, better, "anti-excellence" that is at the core of O's extremely deceitful campaign. For example:
1) The credit card donation set up that took extra steps to ensure that even routine checks to see if the person registering the donation matched that for the card. This made it easy to roll-up huge volumes, but will stain the credibility of the election forever.
2) Likewise for the back door and intentionally obscured relationship with ACORN that has broken all records for blowing up the ability for good faith election officials to manage the normal challenges of registration. Again, this will stain the credibility and legitimacy of an O administration, should one occur and will also sow deep seeds of anger and distrust across the county.
3) The explicit mis-directions of intent and beliefs that can't all be listed here, but which include saying to one audience he'd like to make it impossible to build another coal plant while disowning similar comments when Biden made them more publicly, or very radical positions taken as a community organizer, sanitized later, and the intentional dissembling about his relationship with Ayers and the others.

Posted by brian moore at November 3, 2008 5:02 PM




OK, Tom Sullivan. But it is, after all, his blog and he can do whatever he wishes on any given day. Why is this offensive again? The New York Times wrote a piece about his decision a few days ago why should he not write of it here? I might think it strange for him not do to so. This is not just any election, as the crowds averaging 100,000 all over this great nation proves as well as the early voters of which 30% so far are first timers. But I see that you're back and I'm happy about that. :-)

Posted by Judith Ellis at November 3, 2008 5:25 PM




The best guide to what Americans will get from a President Obama and a President Mc Cain is shown by the totally different ways they have run their campaigns.

Obama has run a big, expansive, and expensive campaign. He has spent freely on big rallies, TV advertisements, and local organisations to get out the vote. His financial backing has come from wealthy corporates, individuals, and millions of working people. He has raised more than Mc Cain and spent more than Mc Cain. He will do that in Government too. Has he given his backers value for money? If he wins then no one will have to make this assessment. Will his big taxing and big spending Government give the American taxpayer value for money? Look at his campaign and you will have your answer. If you believe in big taxing and big spending Government - spreading the wealth around through increased entitlements and government grants - you will be happy with Obama. Also Obama has been virtually inaccessible to the media - he has only done set pieces or scripted events, Early on in the campaign at Saddleback Church he met Pastor Rick Warren for an intimate chat and he totally fluffed it. He exposed his real thinking on issues and they were not reassuring. As President do not expect Obama to be accessible - he will be a scripted President who appears on TV, does background briefings for the Press, and otherwise is aloof. He may be all that Tom Peters (and all his Democratic ideologues) want him to be in terms of an inspirational leader but he has not shown that on the campaign trial other than in giving scripted and tightly controlled performances. He is not like Reagan or Clinton - he is not warm and fuzzy and not engagingly likeable. On the contrary, Obama has shown himself to be an elusive figure - he is not the type of guy that most Americans would have over for a brunch and a beer.

Mc Cain has run a far less expansive and expensive campaign. He has been funded by public money and private donations. He has kept his campaign simple and kept his costs down. The way he has run his campaign shows us how he will run his Government. There have been tensions within his Campaign because he allows those differences to exist - he does not having everything neatly scripted and so he has had open disagreements within his team. The liberal press have been all over him for this aspect of his campaign as they try to suggest he is not up to the job - it could be a sign that he is more than capable of handling divergent views and is less ideological in his thinking than any recent President. His budget has been modest his spending - with the exception of Governor Palin's outfits have been modest. Mc Cain will govern for all and take in all points of view BUT he will be much less more open to different points of view than any recent President. He will cut the size of Government. He will increase trade. He will lower the cost of health care by adopting electronic records etc. He will drill for oil. He will be a continuation of the Bush Administration and at the same time Mc Cain will be completely different to Bush. Mc Cain will be far more like Reagan and Clinton than Obama - Mc Cain will likeable, even loveable, and over time he will become a well respected President. He will be accessible to everyone. He loves being with people to discuss the issues. However, he will be hounded, as President, by the likes of Tom Peters and his liberal mates in the Press. Problem is Mc Cain can not be come President of the United States. Is that a good thing? I don't know but the important thing is we will never know.

Overall, there is so much that we now know about Obama from the scale and the type of campaign he has run that the thing which totally bemuses me about this long and grinding campaign is that both liberal and conservative commentators still repeatedly claim "we don't know much about this guy!" Incredible! Take a close look at what he has done not what he has said and you will see exactly what and who you are about to get as the next President of America.

Richard.

Posted by Richard Lipscombe at November 3, 2008 5:26 PM




From post to post Richard’s all over the place. I wonder what kind of president he might be. McCain has said absolutely nothing during this whole campaign besides attacking Obama. Can anyone, as Obama has asked repeatedly, name one stated McCain position that would be different from President Bush? In fact, can any of McCain’s positions be stated besides cutting taxes for those in the upper percentage? As a matter of fact, the Republican Party appears to not even have a have a platform. Does anyone know what the Republican platform is?

Richard’s ideological notion of Republicans being for less government while Democrats tax and spend is erroneous. Government has grown tremendously over the last 8 years. (Yes, 2 of the last included Democratic leadership in the Congress.) When Clinton left office there was a surplus; now there is a deficit. Richard speaks with such authority, but like so many others, it is full of machinations, appearing on proper footing. But it’s not. It is, however, lofty. What's up with the "he will do this" and "he will do that," as if Richard actually knows what will be done once either of these men are elected? It’s very simple. He does not know.

And, what's up with the "He may be all that Tom Peters (and all his Democratic ideologues) want him to be in terms of an inspirational leader but he has not shown that on the campaign trial other than in giving scripted and tightly controlled performances. He is not like Reagan or Clinton - he is not warm and fuzzy and not engagingly likeable." What is Richard talking about??? It’s as if his notion of warm, fuzzy and engagingly likeable should be that of everyone.

The only problem with Richard's observation is that more people than not find Obama likeable indeed, including the 250,000 thousand in Berlin who came out to hear him. What wrong with inspiration. Have the critics been to BarackObama.com and reviewed his policies? But I must admit that McCain is by far more comedic; his timing is great. Does this mean that he will be a great president? Barack Obama is more serious and studious; perhaps priviledge and leisure affords a bit more frivolity. And what's all this foolishness about the candidate that you'd like to have a beer with or perhaps kill a moose with? Enough!

Speaking of likeability, Reagan or Clinton did not have hundreds of thousands at their campaign events, nor did either run such a superb campaign unlike none other in history of or country. It’s been nearly pitch perfect. Barack Obama is plenty "engagingly likeable," very bright and inspiring. By the way, if TP is a Democratic ideologue, I guess Buffett, Volker, and Powell are ideologues too.

Richard – Pray tell, what are you?

Posted by Judith Ellis at November 3, 2008 7:40 PM




Mr. Peters,

As much as you build the case for Sen. Obama in terms of his leadership ability, you unfortunately contradict your own belief in the importance of a "values statement" by supporting him. Very simply: Sen. Obama has no values statement/system from what can be discerned by his rhetoric since being in the public forum. His pseudo "values" are change and equality of resources. Contrast that to arguably the greatest values statement ever conceived for a nation - that of our Founding Fathers: "...the right to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness."

Obama's record on life? Dismal and in his own words "above his pay grade."

Obama on liberty? It is not liberty that he seeks to defend, but clearly equality (and not equal of opportunity) - in his words it is the "spread the wealth" idea of equality.

Obama on the pursuit of happiness? He believes in a "patriotic" increase of the tax burden on both individuals and businesses. This obviously means the government takes more of what one earns, versus allowing one to decide how they want to spend/save/gave etc.

Do I want both a charismatic leader and a defender of THE FUNDAMENTAL VALUES of this great nation - absolutely. But if I have to decide which is more important, I, Mr. Peters, will always choose to protect the values of America first.

Posted by Mark at November 3, 2008 7:47 PM




I want to thank TP for making a choice. If anything else, TP solidifying his position has galvanized many of our own thoughts and votes.

I, for one, could care less who Tom Peters is voting for; just because Tom Peters is voting a certain way doesn't mean that I will. I'll share a little secret: this isn't the first time I've disagreed with Mr. Peters...the guy is human after all.

Even though I disagree with Judith in some cases, I enjoy debating with her and enjoy her point of view. People indicating that they're not coming back to the site because of Tom's political point of view is ridiculous. Take care and don't come back, more blogging for me.

Posted by Scott at November 3, 2008 7:53 PM




Scott - Your little secret is funny. :-) I'm sure you're not alone. But I don't think TP's looking for agreement. In fact, he said, in this regard in particular, that he wasn't. By the way, I do not find all of your points disagreeable. Cheers!

Posted by Judith Ellis at November 3, 2008 8:10 PM




WOW!! - Even from over the pond here in the UK I feel the temperature rising in this Blog topic as the final hours tick away. How wonderful it is that this Blog provides the opportunity to see and read so many varied opinions so congratulations to all you folks in the US for a fascinating, passionate conversation that is a joy to observe!

The word I just can’t get out of my head every time I look at the coverage of the two candidates is ‘hope’ and Mr Obama is the one who provides that as far as I can see.

The web site that erik pointed us to earlier in this thread now has almost three quarters of a million votes cast from 211 countries. The percentage scores at the moment are 86.9% votes for Obama and 13.1% votes for McCain. Though it is not scientific - and some may say, irrelevant – it feels like there’s a pretty loud and clear message about what the rest of the world is saying from the outside looking in.

Posted by Trevor Gay at November 3, 2008 8:25 PM




When has being downright good been disagreeable? Stop hatin'! Don't be a hater! Be a lover!

Posted by Judith Ellis at November 3, 2008 9:00 PM




Hi Judith....

I am a guy who loves his family, life, observing politics in the US, and being an active player in politics in my own country. So I am just Joe Average....

I write, as Tom Peters says, not to influence my readers' decision making but in the hope that I can make a point here and there that causes my readers' to stop and to think just a little more deeply or laterally about all kinds of factors within a political setting like a Presidential race.

I have never belonged to any party. Why? Because for a large part of my life I have been fortunate to be a professional adviser/consultant on key political campaigns. I believe (especially in our system) it is far better not to become an ideologue or a captive of a particular world view. If you do become a captive of a "particular world view" you quickly lose your value to a government or to a political leader. In such circumstances you are just another member of the baying crowd.

Unfortunately this election has too often echoed the baying crowd rather than produced considered discussion of the issues. Of course it was always going to be this way this time around given the unpopularity of President Bush.

BUT your country has great opportunities ahead of it. It is an open, free, and mobile society (people can move from humble beginnings onto the White House) with much to offer immigrants and locals alike.

I wish all Americans the best of everything in 2009 and beyond. I don't think you are broke, etc like Tom Peters does - rather I think you are in transition and the American people will do just fine so long as politicians support them with good government but also leave them enough room to simply get on with the job.

It is a pity that Lincoln is not running in this election. He had the right balance on many issues that face Americans today. He understood the need for better social cohesion. He understood the need for transparent, accountable, and equitable Government - Government that is not too small and not too big. Lincoln, Kennedy (Jack and Bobby), and Reagan were all transformational leaders - all were shot. So the biggest change in America that I would look for today is that you all can have a transformational leader as President who does not get shot or shot at....

Sure I am all over the place - that is the nature of politics except for those who have a rigid "world view", ideology, cause, or agenda to pursue. I have no agenda, no "world view", no cause to pursue. As I say above I write here because I can (Thanks Again Tompeters! for giving me a platform to express these thoughts) and because I think in a democracy that all voices should be heard (even from the colonies).

I believe the greatest threat to America today and tomorrow is "group think"....

Richard.

Posted by Richard Lipscombe at November 3, 2008 9:41 PM




Trevor,

Love your blog across the pond and I know what a fan of Peters you are. If you keep up this statistical irrelevance, we'll come bomb and occupy all of those countries supporting Obama.

Not to mention, the post that Erik points us to is run by ACORN. No wonder Obama is winning by 86.9%. From an insider's perpective, many of us are scared you-know-whatless that the populace is about to elect a guy with very little, if any, meaningful experience. What happens when the honeymoon is over. Very nice that Iran and Venezuela are endorsing Obama today and hoping he wins. We even have rogue dictators and the axis of evil coming out with their own endorsements of Obama.

I've begun to memorize O'Canada in recent days. Not even Tom Peters management wisdom can save us from the category 5 that's about to hit our country. I'm glad we could fix the dollar's strength by tanking many countries currencies around us.

I'm learning French too, so I'm up to speed on how to speak socialistically.

Posted by Scott at November 3, 2008 10:00 PM




Scott is really funny!

Posted by Judith Ellis at November 3, 2008 10:14 PM




Quoting Melanie Phillips [www.spectator.co.uk/melaniephillips/2293196/pinch-yourself.thtml]:

Obama is "a Marxisant radical who all his life has been mentored by, sat at the feet of, worshipped with, befriended, endorsed the philosophy of, funded and been in turn funded, politically promoted and supported by a nexus comprising black power anti-white racists, Jew-haters, revolutionary Marxists, unrepentant former terrorists and Chicago mobsters"--Jeremiah Wright, William Ayers, Bernardine Dohrn, Tony Rezko, and Alexi Giannoulias.

This, Tom, is "Mr. Obama's resume" that you are "not troubled by."

The question is: Why not?

Posted by Timothy Hadley at November 3, 2008 11:28 PM




Tom, I agree you have stressed an apolitical desire on the TP blog but it has tended to slant to the left—TP included. I am not with you on Obama, but that’s okay. I’d prefer you get together with Fiorina and Jack Welch and work on the economic challenges…

On this blog post and your Times article, I sense your vote against Palin may be as strong as your support for Obama, and that in itself may be enough reason for you. The other reasons you cite are more or less under hope and change. Should Obama deliver the hope and change he says he is, I will admit I was wrong. Will the Obama supporters be willing to the same if he is not?

It easy to—and many are, willing to blindly place total blame on those who are holding the bag at this time (Republicans), and they are less willing to look closer at Reid, Pelosi, Schumer, Frank, etc. and then also connect the dots on why Obama would not be wise at this time. In the early 70’s we saw the bumper stickers “don’t blame me I voted for McGovern”. Will we see “don’t blame me I voted for McCain”?

While an Obama blowout has been predicted for some time, I suspect the election will reflect it being closer than the 55-45% the polls and media have suggested we have moved to as a country. Assuming Obama wins, we will have a better indication in 2010 and ‘12 where we are with hope and change—one direction or another. I am less optimistic he is "the one" than you (and the world) says he is. We’ll see…

Posted by Randy at November 3, 2008 11:31 PM




Richard, the sad feature of this otherwise gripping presidential campaign is the small extent to which considered opinion has been given airtime over snippy soundbites. Campaign mantras rule. Instant lowest-common-denominator responses are the order of the day. Personal attacks and misrepresentation beat addressing the issues. Of the two candidates, however, Obama offers a considered, pragmatic and adaptable approach to issues while McCain offers inflexible ideology, and a mix of fast and furious. For the times we live in I know which approach I would prefer, untested or not.

Timothy, The Spectator is as usual pandering to its increasingly right-wing readership; its assessment of Barack Obama is anything but objective.

Posted by Rob at November 4, 2008 2:04 AM




Hi Scott – your humour travels well over the water my friend

You are so right I’m a huge fan of TP – I don’t ALWAYS agree with him - just 99% of the time. I agree with him 100% about Mr Obama.

Sounds like we need to get our tin hats on and open up the world war two bunkers ‘cos I’ve yet to speak to one person in the UK who supports McCain. - I predict a landslide to Mr Obama 56% - 44%

Please don’t go to France Scott – come here to England you will be very welcome- the football (soccer) here is so superior than France; English Beer is what you need to appreciate real culture rather than that French wine; And heaven forbid but if you happen to get ill over here you can experience a universal healthcare system free of charge - available to all - regardless of age or wealth provided through taxation – and still the envy of the world for universal coverage.

Yours forever in ‘socialism’ whatever that means.

Trevor

PS – seriously – good luck to all my friends in the US on this momentous day – It remains my ambition to visit your great country one day if you’ll let me in :-)

Posted by Trevor Gay at November 4, 2008 2:57 AM




PS Scott – I forgot to mention one positive thing about Mr McCain - his Oven Ready Chips ARE very popular on this side of the pond so I guess he will be able to concentrate more on that once the election is over. http://www.ciao.co.uk/McCain_Crinkle_Oven_Chips__6545635

Best

Trevor

Posted by Trevor Gay at November 4, 2008 3:41 AM




Whatever your persuasion.....Just Vote. If, as predicted, we have a record turnout, I would hope that all will accept the will of the people and support the new government. This has been a particularly nasty campaign, and we need to stand together going forward. I do not remember a time in my 57 years that the USA has had so many troubles that need to be addressed,,,and now! Lets get on with it.

Posted by Mike Neiss at November 4, 2008 5:52 AM




Good one Trevor. I've raised a few eyebrows over here by coming up with a potential headline for the tabloids to use if Obama wins:
'McCain's had his chips...'

A joke that could even be repeated on Radio Two given the events of the last ten days...

Posted by Keith Rickaby at November 4, 2008 8:55 AM




Tom could have saved lots of time/space/effort.

TP says he has now voted 12 times for president.

And voted for the democratic candidate each time.

So I don't know if we needed a post on why he is supporting Obama.

After 12 times, I'm pretty sure which way he is leaning.

So why try to frame it up as a good choice/decision?

Would a rigirous decision making process really kick out the democrat EVERY time????

Isn't part of great management good decision making everytime? Not same as it ever was....we've always done it that way.....etc etc

Posted by Randy E at November 4, 2008 11:10 AM




Randy - The same might be said for your opinion here. The beauty is the right to voice it.

Posted by Judith Ellis at November 4, 2008 11:40 AM




Sometimes one word says it all: Yes, Tom. Yes!

Cees Harmsen
This is your wake-up call
The Netherlands

Posted by Cees Harmsen at November 4, 2008 2:09 PM




Keith - well done - we Brits must keep chips on the political agenda at all costs! ... Make that real chips by the way ... :-)

Posted by Trevor Gay at November 4, 2008 5:06 PM




Well, the result is in and BBC News Channel is almost wall to wall about the election this morning. The overall reaction here is positive and looking to the future and what may or may not happen. Even my girlfriend who isn't usually interested in politics (even though her niece helped on the Obama phone lines earlier in the year) has been watching and making positive comments about the contrast between the Obama an McCain camps.

As an antidote to politics though, I'm going to spend this evening watching a movie that highlights what can go wrong with politics. It's called V For Vendetta and stars John Hurt, Natalie Portman, Stephen Fry and Hugo Weaving. It's set in the near future, but the orginal source material was a graphic novel written in the 1980's as a commentary about what was going on over here at that time. I'll not spoil it, but two quotes from the screenplay are worth repeating: 'Ideas are bulletproof' and 'People shouldn't be afraid of their governments, governments should be afraid of their people...'

Posted by Keith Rickaby at November 5, 2008 4:58 AM




Chips will be kept on the agenda Trevor, especially as I'm about to go out and look for a new, very energy efficient fridge freezer...

Posted by Keith Rickaby at November 5, 2008 5:42 AM




Financial world just voted on yesterday's result...Welcome to Obama world...It may feel good in your heart but your wallet is going to sting.

Posted by zircon-212 at November 5, 2008 4:14 PM




zircon-212, For whom did the financial world vote weeks back when it was predicted that the financial collapse would be the worst since the Revolution, not the Great Depression? Got any singular names for that one too? Markets are finicky things, especially after such an initial collapse. I know you'd like to point the blame to the President-elect after such a landslide electoral victory, but the reality is that Barack Obama is no more to blame for this crisis than you are. But then again, maybe not.

Posted by Judith Ellis at November 5, 2008 6:33 PM




Happy Birthday, Scott.

Posted by Judith Ellis at November 8, 2008 9:35 AM




Alas it has been 3 days since a post and I, for one am celebrating the inactivity. I imagine that most Conservatives, like myself, were disappointed and saddened by Tom's opinion on Mr. Obama's proposed government-solution. Especially painful because we hold Tom in such high regard. We find his conclusions causal - for him - but irrational and therefore frustrating - for us. However, that is the point, really. This politics thing is irrational and emotion-driven and we Conservatives may never win another national election in this country unless we accept the strategy as valid and adopt it. We were just schooled in it and the math is now unalterably against us.

I find it laughable at the attempts at persuasion within this head-strong, no, heart-strong blog audience. Futile but emotionally necessary for some. What could we possibly offer Judith, for example? So, I feel cathartically better now for posting, and I bet Tom did and you all did too. Also, I feel better that the UK posters like us better now. Why? I realize it doesn't matter why? But as a suggestion, how about we go back to our little spot on the curved planet and take care of business?

Posted by Terry Ransbury at November 11, 2008 10:01 PM




Terry - You have done well to post and it is good that you feel "cathartically better." But I must say that I find it funny that conservatives often like to cast themselves as rational and thrifty when in fact they have lead the greatest irrational spending, creating the largest deficit in the history of our country. I also think it particularly funny that irrational ones include those who differ from the conservative opinion, that true voice of reason--of course. But it can be effectively argued that such reason did not exist in the last eight years by and large.

What is indeed laughable, Terry, is your attempt to high-brow the present conservative failed policies with the pretense of rationality and reason. This is unbecoming. (Though, your tone is admirable.) The conservative ideas of the past eight years have failed miserably; the people have spoken and will continue to speak. At anytime it is awesome that we “have the right to rise up, and shake off the existing government, and form a new one,” one that better suits us. (President Lincoln)

Finally, why the lack of passion? Why the lack of heart? I suppose to have such is unbecoming to you. Finally, finally, there is "no little spot on the curved planet" where we can "take care of business." Should we pretend that what is occurring is not, in fact, occurring and it has no relevance to our professional lives? If there is a general criticism of the conservative movement it is the compartmentalizing of things in little neat packages; it is the homogeneity of the whole. But this is not life across any spectrum. The question of leadership and governance is pervasive and all encompassing; there we will forever find ourselves personally, politically, or professionally.

Posted by Judith Ellis at November 12, 2008 7:12 AM




“Also, I feel better that the UK posters like us better now. Why? I realize it doesn't matter why? But as a suggestion, how about we go back to our little spot on the curved planet and take care of business?

Hi Terry – WOW! - As a Brit (and not representative in any way) I’ve always had the highest possible regard for the US and its citizens and that remains unaffected. I love the US culture of optimism, enthusiasm and passion. I don’t ‘like’ you folks any ‘better’ just because Mr Obama has been elected. What you folks have done however by electing Mr Obama is restored my belief that hope, optimism, enthusiasm and passion are still an integral part of the US psyche. Please don’t lose that Terry.

Also don’t ‘go back’ to just looking inwardly at your own ‘little spot on the curved planet.’ The world needs an outward looking US more than ever.

At a time of the year we are remembering in Britain how important our relationship with the US through both World Wars was, I hope we forever maintain our close relationship.

Just my ‘two cents’ from the left hand side of the pond. I am definitely not a Conservative so I don’t expect you to agree with me Terry but that is surely the spirit of this Blog – healthy discussion and not always agreement.

Posted by Trevor Gay at November 12, 2008 4:25 PM




Thank you, Trevor, for the global perspective.

Posted by Judith Ellis at November 12, 2008 7:03 PM




I have never seen a black person as sophisticated as Barack Obama!

Posted by Brink Ramoleele at November 19, 2008 9:00 AM




Where are you from? Come to my city and many cities throughout America. You have to get out more, really.

Posted by Judith Ellis at November 19, 2008 10:03 AM




I've never seen ANY politician as inspiring as Mr Obama - colour is irrelevant.

Posted by Trevor Gay at November 19, 2008 10:59 AM




To Judith and Trevor
Being an African, from Botswana, in particular, so many stories have been peddled around, that America will never elect a Black person as President. Infact there were some in the media, some few years ago when Collin Powell's name cropped up, who said that America was not ready for a black president. The pundits and others around the world have been proved wrong.It doesnt matter which race you belong to, everyone has equal opprtunities to be what they want to be.

Posted by Brink Ramoleele at November 19, 2008 1:26 PM




Brink - well said

It's always great when uninformed 'pundits' are proved wrong. Mr Obama's colour is not the issue at all - his talent is all that matters and he has that in bundles. ‘Hope’ is the word I most associate with Mr Obama – ‘hope’ for the world - not just the US.

Posted by Trevor Gay at November 19, 2008 1:33 PM




Brink - I understand and agree. But the lack of opportunity has indeed been about color in many countries in Africa and in America. This cannot be denied. The real beauty, however, is that we as a people are evolving. Yes, hope for the world--INDEED! But I am particularly thrilled that America has led in this regard. I invite you to come to America; here you will find a great many black people "as sophisticated as Obama."

Posted by Judith Ellis at November 19, 2008 6:38 PM




Thanks Judy. I have always loved America and i will hopefully come for a visit one day! America has done it again, and once again the rest of the world is mesmerised. I have read Obama's book, The Audacity of Hope and watched him campaign. Its like every major policy issue he has announced has been carefully planned. What is troubling though is that Obama hasnt said anthing substantial about Africa. Although Africa has moved substantially towards multi-party democracy, there are some amongst our midst who continue to cause trouble.Somalia, DRC and Zimbabwe are burning. I hope that the Obama admnistration would everything possible to help Africa.

Posted by Brink Ramoleele at November 20, 2008 12:35 AM




Brink - Correct me if I'm wrong, but did President Bush not start and follow through on some positive African initiatives? I would assume the President-elect will not forget about Africa. If one thing was right about President Bush's policies, many believe his African initiatives to be honorable. (History may prove some others as well.) When one leads, especially well, others are more likely to follow. I trust the President-elect will continue to address African concerns.

There are so many issues facing our country right now that the most pressing thing is to get our economy going again. When our economy soars we are more likely to help others, though the needs of others do not go away because of what happens here. I also believe that people have a responsiblity to help others too, not just government. (This is not to discount policy in any way.) The Bill Gates Foundation, for example, with the assistance of Warren Buffett, is doing some pretty awesome things in Africa.

All the best to Africa in choosing a Democratic system. Things take more time then we sometimes like to admit. Keep the faith!

Posted by Judith Ellis at November 20, 2008 8:18 AM




I agree Judy. When President Bush came into office, he announced some whopping 15 billion dollars aid to Africa. Although he made a mess elsewhere, he did come handy to Africans. The aid mostly focussed on the eradicating diseases currently ravaging our continent, like HIV/AIDS. With the election of a President with African roots, we can only hope that he will do more to help Africa than any other American President. I am quite aware that everyone wants a piece of him, Western Europe, Russia, Iran etc. But Africa is increasingly becoming important in world politics. China has invested Billions in Africa because they have realised its potential. Africa needs a Marshal plan for it to prosper. A strong and prosperous Africa will be vital to the US.

Posted by Brink Ramoleele at November 21, 2008 12:22 AM




Brink - I appreciate your points. Thank you. Africa has always been a profitable place, a very important place. The matter, however, was who profited and who will profit going forward. Its vast natural resources are incomparable to any continent on the planet and its vast number of people is also good. But Africa has to deal continuously with its internal strife and massive corruption before global companies en masse invest there, not to mention the disease levels that plague so many countries. I understand that these things are being addressed. My aunt, by the way, married an African diplomat and my four cousins were born on the Continent. Blessings…

Posted by Judith Ellis at November 21, 2008 8:47 AM




Judy it is the global companies that are involved with the locals in corrupt activities. It takes two to tango! So western governments shold also take stern action against their companies and individuals who are involved in corrupt practices. But here is what i think the Obama administration needs to do in order to have a stable and progressive Africa. Obama needs to focus more on making the DRC more stabe. DRC is the the richest country in terms of mineral resources in the whole African continent. This is source of most Africas internal strives. A stable and assertive DRC is not good for most global companies who coninue to plunder the country's wealth, hence the recent wars. A powerful and democreaic DRC will bring stability within the Great Lakes region and to the rest of Africa. Judy its a pleasure to know that you have some African relatives. You should visit Africa and you will definately experince her natural beauty.

Posted by Brink Ramoleele at November 22, 2008 6:15 AM




I appreciate your words, Brink, and wish the very best for Africa. I can see the necessity to produce strife in order to pillage. But Africa has a responsibility too; it is after all, her people who will suffer most. Yes, it takes two to tangle, but without the corruption of the African leadership there would be no tango. I suppose there are many leaders, probably many factions too.

What do you think about the pirates off the Somali coast? I'm literally in state of complete wonder and amazement. How can these ragtag bandits in row boats commandeer a massive ship with such precious commodity? If it wasn't so dangerous for the crew, it would be laughable indeed. Looking at the body language of the crew lined up on deck there seemed to be no major concern. But there must be.

I would love to visit Africa. My brother used to travel on business to South Africa often and would carry his golf clubs too. (I wonder how much business he was actually doing. :-) My mother also visited. I have been to many continents, but not as of yet to Africa. I most certainly can't wait to "experience her natural beauty." Nice words. Thank you.

It's nice that you have spoken of the Great Lakes region. I am from Michigan, the Great Lakes State. The weather I'm sure is much nicer there. But I must admit to loving the season changes here. It's 32 degrees here as I write. The temperature will drop in the 20s later on. Have you been to the States?

Posted by Judith Ellis at November 22, 2008 6:27 PM




As i have said before,Africa is changing and demcracy has ushered in new kind of leaders.

The pirates issue never cease to amaze me Judy. We do have some Somalian refugees in our country and they have told us horror stories about the situation back home. One story that comes to my mind is that of a guy who literally owned an army tank. He would just park next to a shopping complex and order those who care to listen to give him food suplies failure to which he would run the whole complex down.

What is even more fascinating is a situation where rebels, formed mainly from forced child soldiers and people who have never trained militarily, could defeat a disciplined army of several thousand men! This is Africa.

I have never been to the States and would definately love to come for a visit. I do have some friends from the States. Some guys from the Peace corps who were here many years ago, though i have lost their contact adresses.
My country Botswana shares the border with South Africa and it has aboundance of natural resources, wildlife, the Okavango delta and a host of other natural wonders. The weather here is very hot, at 38 degrees celcius this summer.

Posted by Brink Ramoleele at November 24, 2008 9:35 AM




All the best!

Posted by Judith Ellis at November 24, 2008 12:09 PM




Thanks Judy.

Posted by Brink Ramoleele at November 25, 2008 10:08 AM

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