The Economist Says ‘It’s Time’ for Obama

The acclaimed right-leaning rag has come out for Mr. O: “The Economist does not have a vote, but if it did, it would cast it for Mr Obama. We do so wholeheartedly: the Democratic candidate has clearly shown that he offers the better chance of restoring America’s self-confidence.” Socialists.

It’s hard to get too worked up about endorsements, but a new study finds that they are, in fact, influential—especially when they aren’t preaching to the choir. This probably qualifies.

The Economist:

For all the shortcomings of the campaign, both John McCain and Barack Obama offer hope of national redemption. Now America has to choose between them. The Economist does not have a vote, but if it did, it would cast it for Mr Obama. We do so wholeheartedly: the Democratic candidate has clearly shown that he offers the better chance of restoring America’s self-confidence. But we acknowledge it is a gamble. Given Mr Obama’s inexperience, the lack of clarity about some of his beliefs and the prospect of a stridently Democratic Congress, voting for him is a risk. Yet it is one America should take, given the steep road ahead.

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Collage: Flickr (Joe Crimmings Photography) / Economist