LA Times Picks: Obama, McCain

Democrat's 'character and temperament' are what country needs

(NEWSER) - The Los Angeles Times today endorsed Barack Obama for president “without hesitation,” citing his combination of “grace under pressure” and “passion to inspire the best within us.” His campaign was at first lit by the newness of his personal narrative, but “as the presidential race draws to its conclusion, it is Obama's character and temperament that come to the fore,” the Times’ editors write in the paper's first endorsement for top office since 1972, and first-ever for a Democratic presidential candidate. More»

After 'disaster' of Bush, he offers 'both uplift and realism'

(NEWSER) - At a critical moment in its history, the United States "needs both uplift and realism, both change and steadiness"—and Barack Obama is the man to deliver it, writes the New Yorker in a 4,000-word endorsement. After George W. Bush, whose presidency has been "the worst since Reconstruction," America requires a leader who understands the severity of the economic crisis and the complexities of foreign affairs, but also restores the country's "battered morale." More»

Senator calls on New Yorkers to support her former rival

(NEWSER) - It’s time to make a clean break from the "disastrous policies" of the past eight years, and the man to “chart a new course” is Barack Obama, writes Hillary Clinton of her one-time rival in a column in the New York Daily News. “We find ourselves in an economic crisis born and bred by the failed policies of Washington Republicans. And the fact is, President Bush has practiced what John McCain has preached," she notes. More»

McCain was a great senator but a poor candidate

(NEWSER) - Barack Obama and John McCain are both great contenders, the Economist writes, but “the Democratic candidate has clearly shown that he offers the better chance of restoring America’s self-confidence.” Given Obama’s inexperience and decidedly left-wing outlook, “voting for him is a risk. Yet it is one America should take, given the steep road ahead.” More»

(NEWSER) - Despite holes in Barack Obama’s qualifications, the Democrat is the obvious choice for president, the Financial Times writes. His “policies are a blend of good, not so good, and downright bad,” but the alternative is an increasingly disturbing brand of maverick, the British daily opines. “Rashness is not a virtue in a president. The cautious and deliberate Mr. Obama is altogether a less alarming prospect.” More»