I wonder about this comparison.... While on social views Ford is more conservative than Obama, they both are charismatic speakers and personalities that the media loves.
Imus wanted to lip-lock with Harold before the election. IMHO both Ford and Obama, like to beat up the far left to gain political points with the general public. They both seem to be leary of the far left.
IMHO the more you watch both of them speak in TV interviews the more likely you will be able to guess what they will say or how they avoid questions.
I wonder about Obama's staying power. My initial hunch, with absolutely no evidence is that the more an informed public hears him speak about the issues the less enamored they will be. A sort of lieberman-esque style in a weird way.
From the little I've seen he is masterful at spinning questions toward something else. Personally, I'd be content with anyone but HRC.