Obama's Hat is Officially in the Ring

By Timmy Watson in News on Feb 10, 2007 5:47PM

Aside from the fact that Barack Obama gives us a certain sense of pride in our city, we feel he truly gives our country and its citizens the feeling that things can change. This seems to be a consistent theme in reactions to Obama, ''He makes you feel like it is possible to change things,'' Brenda Calkington told the New York Times today at Obama's announcement of his intention to run for President.

Thousands of people watched as Obama made the announcement at the Old State Capitol, referencing Lincoln and his ability to unite a nation. Along with evoking Lincoln, the location of the announcement also stressed the fact that Obama was on the Illinois legislature for 8 years prior to joining the Senate, hoping for the impression that, although he is young and has only been a United States Senator for two years he has the necessary experience. Addressing this issue in his speech, Obama explained that while he hasn't been around Washington a long time, he's gathered enough about it to know it needs change.

Obama will now start on the long and grueling process of 'the road to the White House'. Following his speech, Obama headed to Iowa. The Iowa caucus has traditionally been the indicator of which candidate will win the parties nomination. Tomorrow Obama will be at UIC for a rally, he will then be heading to New Hampshire.

Hot on the heels of Hilary Clinton in a recent poll, Obama is joining a crowded race. Joseph Biden, Hilary Clinton, Chris Dodd, John Edwards, Mike Gravel, Dennis Kucinich, BIll Richardson, and Tom Vilsack are all vying for the Democratic party nomination. In the first election in 80 years where the field for both parties is wide open (no incumbents or Vice Presidents) we feel it's never to early to start paying attention, so you can expect plenty of coverage by Chicagoist.