Four years ago I thought John Edwards was too young and inexperienced to lead the country. Today, I am impressed with his grasp of the issues.
As a Mark Warner supporter, I had been looking at Bayh (until he dropped out) and Vilsak. Of course, like everyone else, I took a peek at Obama as well. Then I turned my attention to Edwards.
More after the fold
While other potential candidates (including my guy) had been out raising money and holding fundraisers for candidates Edwards was out there talking to the people. Getting a better grasp of what every day people struggle with.
When I had a candidate I looked at Edwards with a touch of cynicism. After looking deeper into what he has been doing and what he has been saying, I have been pretty impressed.
Just a few examples include his work with the UNC Center on Poverty, Work and Opportunity, Co-Chair of the Council for Foreign Relations, visiting homeless shelters and job training centers, meeting with unions, etc.
His speeches since he has announced for 08 have been dead on. He 'Gets It'. He understands the issues facing average Americans.
I know there has been some stink about him building a 3 million dollar house with people calling him a 'limousine liberal' but let's not forget he came from a very humble upbringing and has been very successful. Nobody should blame someone for being successful if they remember what I believe is a core Democratic value of helping others to achieve success.