Obama's good judgment makes him best candidate

Editor,

The big buzzwords for the presidential campaign, particularly in the Democratic camp, are "experience" and "change." But let's not overlook the most important word: judgment.

If we've learned anything from the past six years, it is to try to understand the candidates' approach to leadership. Are they open to new information and different perspectives? Do they seek minority viewpoints and encourage honest opinions? Do they value ability and professionalism over personal allegiance and past connections? Can we be confident that they will act responsibly? Do they have the intellect to appreciate the complexity of our system of checks and balances?

Sen. Barack Obama is often described as charismatic, and I agree with that. But despite the fact that he is one of the younger candidates, it is obvious that his life and career experience have prepared him for the White House - he has spent all of his adult life addressing people's needs through public service and leadership while developing a keen insight into our strengths and weaknesses and a genuine desire for a better future for all.

In comparison to the other Democratic candidates, he has done far more to advocate for the disadvantaged, make inclusion a reality and change lives in a real and meaningful way. Beyond Obama's obvious talent and charisma, I am confident we can trust his judgment to choose wise and caring advisers and to assemble an administration that will foster openness, enthusiasm, integrity of process, respect and competence.

I hope more voters will look at Obama with this in mind and recognize that his abilities, judgment and vision, combined with a gift for inspiring others, present a rare opportunity for Americans to move toward a more open, productive and responsive government.

Maggie Gombos

Daily Lobo reader