Building hope

“What are your hopes and fears for the Obama Administration?”

That question is almost as daunting as the tasks that lay ahead of President Obama and his administration, but as I searched for my answer, I found it in the voices of my fellow students.

At the center of Wells Library stand boards covered with students’ hopes for America. They hope for peace in the Middle East, environmental protection and equality under the law. Their bright wishes are echoed by millions of Americans, but there is no doubt that this is a time clouded with fears for the future. An economy in deep recession and a nation at war offer little security to Americans, and it is the job of the Obama administration to deftly navigate between solving crisis in the short term and implementing initiatives for our long-term success.

My first hope for the Obama administration is that it continues exhibiting the judgment that they have already displayed within the first few days. A stimulus plan has stirred controversy, but is needed to stave off further economic decline by combining tax cuts and investments into education and renewable energy.

This plan will provide a much-needed boost, but recovery will take time. Americans and our leaders will need to work our hardest and generate our best ideas to build our nation back up. 

Returning us to a place of leadership and security in the world is my second hope for the Obama administration.

An administration willing to work with other nations on intelligence and security is a far departure from the Bush administration’s failed neoconservatism. This new foreign policy will allow us to re-deploy our resources and troops to areas that pose the greatest threat. With proper legal and defense discretion, Guantanamo Bay will be closed, showing our true commitment to democracy around the world.

Domestic policy that strengthens the American people is my third hope for our new administration. Every student must receive a high-quality education and have the opportunity to attend college – no matter their background. Leaving our posterity with systems that protect our Earth is also being used to create service-based jobs for workers today.

The last hope I offer is that this administration continues to elevate itself from the politics that have undermined progress in America for so many years.

We will see an end to the legislative gridlock that has plagued Washington and hindered many critical policies. Cooperation and vision from an administration and Congress are a catalyst for tangible change. Instead of politicizing religion, this administration will allow Americans of every system of belief and lifestyle freedom of choice.

In a time of fear, the Obama administration will work to repair our nation through intelligent leadership and policy. During his campaign, Obama inspired a hope that resonated to change the face and direction of American politics. Now, the Obama administration is already beginning the hard work necessary to rebuild the road to American wealth of spirit and sustenance.