On Nov. 4 it is essential we elect a president who will restore progressive purpose to our nation, both domestically and abroad. The strongest candidate to do so is, emphatically, Illinois Sen. Barack Obama.

First and foremost, Obama will lead with a purpose of inclusion and equal opportunity for all Americans. As a consequence of the last eight years of policies directed toward the top 5 percent of Americans, millions of voices have blatantly been ignored. His policies promise to alleviate growing pressure on middle-class families by creating jobs and repealing the injurious Bush tax cuts. Barack Obama’s steady vision will solve the health care crisis by decreasing costs and ensuring access. He will fight poverty by increasing access to jobs, strengthening families and investing in higher education.

As the face of America, an Obama administration will project principles of integrity and respect on the international community. Such a doctrine has been greatly lacking under the current administration and will be further perpetuated by Sen. John McCain. Obama will move Iraq forward, refocus attention on Afghanistan, eliminate weapons of mass destruction and bring an end to the genocide in Darfur. Our allies around the world have resoundingly proclaimed their support for an Obama presidency.

Obama’s ambitious energy policy will lessen America’s impact on the environment and address global warming. His plan seeks to create five million “green-collar” jobs, eliminate imported fuels from the Middle East within 10 years and reduce carbon emissions dramatically. It is vitally important that our next president takes these necessary steps to preserve our environment. If elected president, Obama’s Republican counterpart will continue the failed policies of George W. Bush on climate change; namely a conviction that the problem will solve itself.

In recent years, partisan battles have bruised our nation. Obama has not forgotten that, Republican or Democrat, we must find common ground across the aisle to accomplish a common purpose. Obama’s ability to inspire hope, unity and progress in our nation is needed now more than ever. On Tuesday, cast your ballot for the Obama-Biden ticket.

Brian Martens

Arts & Sciences senior