I thought I would get a lot of comments on this one. Maybe it is too soon for that. No one telling me that Obama is only for big government? I dispute that. He is for us, for cooperation, not just government do it all. But that is not in fashion these days.

I am astonished at the difference in tone of Barack Obama, and the Republicans. Obama's message (to me) is one of inspiration, of hope, of optimism -- we can do this together. Doesn't mean I agree with everything he offers, but what has the opposition to offer that is positive?

I have been watching the Senate committee on the armed services, on the nomination of Chuck Hagel to be Secretary of Defense. The Republicans could be the party that offers a dose of realism to balance the soaring optimism of Obama, but they are, instead, the party of "NO, NO, NO, NO to EVERYTHING!". They are the party of mean-mindedness, of fear. Their ONE idea is to cut, cut, cut government -- especially the parts of government that help the least fortunate among us. It really is astonishing to me -- the party of envy, of blame for everyone except themselves. I am disheartened by it.