Colin Powell’s public support is indicative of today’s society. American people are fed up with politicking—they want a candidate more concerned with doing the job than with creating mud-slinging campaign tactics.

In an age when politicians and their strict ideologies carry meanings of untrustworthiness, Powell represents a view he calls the “sensible center.” For people who do not find themselves falling into the ever-separated confines of the Republican or Democratic parties, the center represents middle-of-the road views.

Although Powell believes in compromise, he refuses to compromise his ideals for the purpose of staying within a party’s lines. A self-described “fiscal conservative with a social conscience,” Powell does not discuss his stance on issues in detail.

Powell’s unspecificity on any divisive national issues may be intentional. Former President Dwight Eisenhower used a similar campaign approach; he said that forming a detailed platform would “alienate more strength than it would develop.”

Powell not only holds the realistic views of many citizens, he’s also an achiever of the American dream. A son of immigrants, Powell was raised in Harlem on meager funds and rose to become Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff. His own discovery of the American dream makes his views even more believable and reality-based.

Americans are looking for a non-political candidate in 1996. Powell’s entrance into the race could fill the void.