To caucus, to caucus

Yesterday was the Washington state democratic caucus, and the second caucus that I’ve participated in. These are exciting political times for democrats (if you haven’t already guessed, this is Marissa writing — not Nate). Democrats, Republicans and Independents alike have the opportunity to change the leadership of the past seven years and reverse the tide that’s made us a political laughing stock on the international landscape.

Yesterday, I cast a vote for Barak Obama, whom I believe has the leadership skills to accomplish this task and others. Most exciting, however, was how many others took a couple of hours out of their Saturday to do the same. Four years ago when I attended my caucus as an undecided voter, a total group of 50-100 were gathered, and maybe 20 were from my precinct. When it came time to discuss our preferences I think a total of 13 stayed; some were in favor of Dean, some were in favor of Kerry, and many, like me, were undecided.

This year, as we pulled up to Whittier Elementary, hundreds of others were also pulling up, walking and congregating in droves. The line to get in to Whittier was around the block. Yesterday, people of all ages, all backgrounds, all colors (but in Ballard, mostly white, middle-class were out to cast their vote. The majority in our precinct were like me, supporting Barak Obama. Unlike the last Presidential election, my precinct alone had over 100 people in attendance. Most people I’ve spoken with had similar experiences.

I think Barak Obama has ignited the power of the people, and we’re now coming out in droves to participate in the political process. Why is Mr. Obama so inspiring?