At the UN, many hope for an Obama win writes Colum Lynch today in the Washington Post. The article really put a smile on my face because it is a testament to how far an Obama presidency would go in restoring America's image around the world. The importance of that should not be underestimated, in my view.
What struck me about the article is the completely unambiguous language used by some of the delegates quoted. One stating that it would be "devastating" if Obama doesn't win. There is absolutely no doubt in their mind. Obama has to win.
One American employee here seemed puzzled that he was being asked whether Sen. John McCain (R-Ariz.) was even a consideration. "Obama was and is unstoppable," the official said. "Please, God, let him win," he added.
The article goes on to quote several others including an obligatory quote from a Republican (John Bolton) suggesting Obama would offer a "bended knee" to the UN. Yeah, sure, whatever.
Back to the good stuff.
One U.N. official threw a party over the summer and asked guests to place stickers of either an elephant or a donkey on the front door to show their political preference. At the end of the night, the door was covered with about 30 donkeys and two elephants. "We found out that one of the Republicans was an American and the other couldn't vote," according to a U.N. official who attended. "So we convinced the American to vote for Obama."
My favorite though, is this quote from a McCain supporter.
"I keep my mouth shut," said one American official here who plans to vote for McCain. "Everyone is knocking on wood, counting the days to the elections. Some Americans here are planning to move to Washington," in search of jobs in an Obama administration.
Emphasis mine. Yes this is all anecdotal and some of these people can't vote. They're not "regulurr Amurikans". They're not Joe the Plumber who isn't really a plumber whose real name is Sam. They don't live in the "real Virginia". But after eight years of having the Republicans drive America's respectability and influence into the ground, I'm guessing it will be a welcome alternative to have a President who is not an international embarrassment. Wouldn't it be nice for America to be, what's the word again, liked?
Here's the link to the whole article, it's worth a read.