MSNBC has just confirmed that Colin Powell just has endorsed Barack Obama and said he will vote for him.
This is huge for Barack. I know that many Kossacks hate Powell for his complicity in the invasion of Iraq, however, it has also been shown that Powell opposed the invasion.
This endorsement will undercut the arguments that Obama is not ready to serve, that he is weak on terrorism, and that McShame would be the best candidate as far as foreign policy issues is concerned.
Moreover, since Powell is associated with Republicans, this can tip many Repubs who might be sitting on the fence.
This will also take up several news cycles and will divert attention from the bogus voter fraud arguments that the Repubs are advancing. This will elevate Obama's stature in the area of foreign policy and national defense. It will also have a major impact should (heaven forbid) we are attacked before the election or another Bin Laden video appears. Although Powell has indicated he will not campaign for Obama, Powell has significant status with independents.
The media will now focus on this endoresement as well as McShame robocalls and it will further push undecideds in our direction. It also undercuts the Ayres/terrorist robovcalls because Powell would never endorse a terrorist or terrorist sympathizer.
This is huge for Obama. YES WE CAN!
UPDATE - Powell did restate his support for the Iraq invasion but was critical about everything since the statue came down. He also was critical of McShame's (the the Repug's) allegations against Obama and said Obama is not a socialist. Another Robocall talking pont shut down.
Damage contral has already begun. McShame said he respects Powell but disagrees with his position on Obama.