I am one of a handful of people 30 and under that serve as a Democratic election judge for Greene County, MO. Greene County is the home of the city of Springfield, the rock-solid foundation of Representative Roy Blunt and the home of Governor Matt Blunt.
As I learned working for Claire McCaskill, this is a very difficult area for Democrats to win over independent voters. Traditionally, though, a candidate has to do reasonably well here (40%+) to win the state.
As I have worked on behalf of Barack Obama here over the past few weeks, it's clear to me that something is different. It's stunning, really.
I have shaken hands and exchanged smiles with more Republicans over the past few weeks of canvassing than I can remember. At least, these are people that traditionally identify themselves as Republicans. This time they intend to vote Democratic.
Some of these men and women are disenchanted with their options on the Republican ticket, others are just disgusted at how the Republican party has strayed far away from the principles that attracted them in the first place.
They think we need a change and they see Barack as someone who can deliver it.
On the other hand...
As encouraged as I have grown from one facet of these conversations on the doorsteps of Springfield, I am equally discouraged by another. There is a seething, irrational hatred of Hillary Clinton here among Republicans and many independents. It's deep, passionate and very real.
It gives me significant pause. I don't get to see how people all across the country react to Hillary, but here it honestly seems like her name serves as a clarion call that inspires Republicans into partisanship.
I will support Hillary if she wins the nomination, but I will be frank. From what I've seen so far, I don't think there is a chance in hell she can get 40% here.
The point...
For this little conservative niche of Missouri, it seems our choice is between the most unifying force in American politics and one of the most polarizing.
It is my belief that what our nation needs now, more than ever, is the kind of change that can only be accomplished through a special kind of unity. We have a powerful opportunity to break down political lines and muster support that can bring the progressive agenda victories we haven't seen in decades.
I pray we take it.