when the Dem’s had their race, I did not think he could win the election there is too much racism in the US-not that I think 50%+ of Americans are racist, but let’s face it some people would vote Rep for other reasons so a black guy would have less chance, I also think that it could help bring out the racist vote -- then again racisms could work both ways. But I think it was obvious that he would win for some time before the vote (and if he did not, I am guessing many would be asking some serious questions).

As for thumbs up or down. My guess is that he would be better. Palin scared the sh!t out of me, but McCain was not that bad, just not sure if he had the right vision. As for Obama, I kind of like the guy and if I was in the US I would most likely vote for him, but I am not sure I trust him. There is something about the way he talks that make me wonder if he is a good sales man or someone that knows what he is doing. It also seems (maybe I have the wrong impression) that he is the type of person that is willing to say anything to get elected, and that would mean that it is hard to know what he will do once in office.