obama announces

Not that we didn't think he did a couple weeks ago. But Obama - his new logo accenting the "O" - has made it official. His announcement video on his website is over 30 minutes, but it's probably worth it to watch. His walk-up song? "City of Blinding Lights" by U2 (How to Dismantle An Atomic Bomb).

Some pull quotes:

"let's lay down broadband lines through the hearts of inner cities and rural towns all across America: we can do that!"

"...we will have universal health care in America by the end of the next president's first term!"

"We can set up a system for capping greenhouse gases. We can turn this crisis of global warming into a moment of opportunity for innovation, and job creation, and an incentive for businesses"

"I understand the skepticism. After all, every four years, candidates from both parties make similar promises, and I expect this year will be no different."

It's nice to have an accomplished orator back. One of the toughest things about Bush for me has simply been his wooden delivery for eight years. There's something necessary in a leader to make his communication both sincere and powerful.

At two points Obama felt (or feigned) embarrassment at the chanting of his fans. Whether intentional or not, those few humble seconds are essential for making the whole package seem authentic.

What would Jesus think of Obama?
Jury still out.