Although I supported John McCain during the election, I am not blind to the historical significance of Barack Obama’s ascent to the White House. From his unseating of Hillary Clinton as the all-but-certain Democratic nominee, to his campaign against McCain, Barack Obama has shown remarkable grace and considerable skill as a politician and as a man.

His inspiring story bridges conservatives and liberals. It is true that the inauguration of Barack Obama is something that our kids will ask us about someday. That being said, I do not agree with his policies. I do not believe that the proper response to a recession is to increase taxes or that a larger federal government is the answer to our problems.

Over the next four years, I will speak of the incompetence of the administration many times. This, however, is not to say that I wish failure upon him. I want to see him succeed because if the president succeeds, so does the country, and in times like these, we need to prosper. Seeing Barack Obama raise his right hand before the Chief Justice will most assuredly bring a desperately needed boost of hope and confidence to the people. No matter how much I disagree with him or his polices, he is still my president, and I wish him the best of luck.

Corey J. Becker

ISU Republicans