whats obama's deal these days?

So, I've been wondering, where has the Barack buzz been lately...when I came across today's USA TODAY cover story "Obama is still seeking traction." Finally, I get to write about my personal favorite 2008 presidential candidate...

He has time and money on his side. But after a fast start, he isn't gaining much ground in the polls.

He has been identified as the most viable African-American contender for president in history. He has published books and has raised a LOT of money in the 8ish months since he threw his hat in the ring for president. In the midst of all the February hoopla he held an impressive 23%, trailing Hillary at 48%. However, 8 months, six debates, and millions of dollars later--he has only picked up another percentage. Has the novel candidate plateaued? Or is he just laying low and waiting for his next big moment to shine?

The article analyzed the breakdown of the national standing poll; showing that Obama has lost some of his African American support to Hillary. This loss is due to his apparent weakness among core blue-collar Democrats and Hillary's inherited support from her husband's African-American fan base--so the question remains, how does he intend to pull the necessary 15% of voters from Hillary? Well, with three months left until the Iowa caucuses I believe the political arena is about to zero in on these two candidates.

Obama's strongest demographics are:
-47% households with annual incomes >$75,000
-45% post-graduate degree
-44% very liberal
-43% 18-29 year old age group
-41% post graduates
-41% independents that lean democrat
-39% men

Well, I pretty much fit the stereotype (except for being a man, of course).
I guess thats pretty typical though, considering we have grown up in a world more accustomed to accepting different racial backgrounds. I am quite sure there are still some white-radicals out there that aren't quite on the same page as the rest of nation.

Obama is a great speaker. He is thoughtful and composed, not overly confident, yet powerful in performance and message. When he speaks, you want to listen to what he has to say, but you also feel you could ask him a question and not feel stupid. Communication skills are hugely important, I would probably rank them as more important than experience...Just look at President Bush's cabinet? could he have a more experienced advisory team...um probably not! However, just listening to him speak takes complete credibility from him. Its like having a a million dollars and no debit card to access it.

So, I'll leave you with this...
"I defied the politics of the moment and opposed the war in Iraq before it began."