Who can best restore U.S. position in the world?
Iranian demonstrators burn a US flag during a rally to mark the 27th anniversary of the Islamic revolution in Tehran, Iran. (PHOTO CREDIT: GETTY IMAGES)
FROM CNN's Jack Cafferty:
The next president – be it John McCain, Hillary Clinton or Barack Obama – better bring a big shovel, cause it's going to take awhile to muck out the Bush barn. A top concern of many Americans is what's happened to our image abroad.
Americans are very unhappy about where we stand. Since February 2001 – right after President Bush took office – the public's dissatisfaction with our position in the world has more than doubled according to a new Gallup poll.
In February of 2002, the dissatisfaction level was 27%. That's not very long after the 9/11 attacks. That number rose to 50% in the lead-up to the Iraq war. It dipped down to 29% right at the beginning of the war in 2003. But it didn't stay down for long because when the American public found out the invasion of Iraq was based on a batch of lies, the rest of the world found out, too. Today Americans' dissatisfaction level stands at 68%. That's the highest level Gallup has ever recorded on this question, including during the Vietnam war.
There's more bad news. In February of 2001, the number of Americans who thought our country was viewed favorably by the rest of the world stood at 75%. Today that number has fallen to fewer than half of us, just 43%.
So when it comes down to it, one of these three candidates is going to have a lot of fence mending to do.
Here’s my question to you: Which candidate would do the best job restoring America’s position in the world?
Interested to know which ones made it on air?
Joe from Hattiesburg, Mississippi writes:
Barack Obama is the best positioned to restore faith in America. His judgment was sound regarding Iraq. Experience means nothing if judgment is poor. His unifying campaign has shown the world how he will interact with each and every country. His campaign has curbed my cynical perception of politics.
Tom writes:
Clinton. She has the contacts, history and experience to bring faith in America back to us, and the world.
John writes:
Any Democrat will do. As someone who travels around the world, the scorn of the Bush administration, its policies, and practices are evident and hard to explain. Today it is easier to say you are from Canada.
Christian from Tampa, Florida writes:
Obama has the clear advantage: Obama-mania among the residents of Obama, Japan. Obama-mania all over Africa, particularly in his father's native land of Kenya… The fact that Obama's middle name is Hussein leads many in the Middle East to believe that maybe America is changing, is different from what they thought it was. What Barack Obama lacks in experience, he more than makes up for in worldview, image, policy ideas and ideals, and ability to connect with people in other countries.
Paul writes:
No one is better than a real American hero like John McCain.
Tina writes:
Hillary Clinton. Despite those who do not like the Clinton name, the rest of the world does.
Kelly from Orlando, Florida writes:
Obama has the ability to inspire and motivate people, get them excited about politics and look at Washington in a different light. If he can excite American citizens like that, he can do the same for the rest of the world. The world is watching, waiting to see what we will do next.
@jackcafferty on Twitter
Obama without a doubt... and would be very impressive in europe a 'clean' USA president... we do have to many monarchy here... and women president is no news here...
Obama brings hope to all europe for better days... either we want it or not the USA president will affect all the world.... why not the BEST there is in USA... Obama for sure.
The answer is 'whichever candidate is not a Republican.' The whole world has witnessed a decline in U.S. standards in the past eight years. Nobody associated with the current political party can represent a change in U.S. behaviors in the eyes of the world.
Obama would do the best job of restoring America's image and position. There is a lot of hate for America and Obama's distinction from the old politicians would diminish the hate. We can't get the world to love us but we can get the world to work with us and hate us less by going with Obama.
The answer is 'whichever candidate is not a Republican.' The whole world has witnessed a decline in U.S. standards in the past eight years. Nobody associated with the current political party can represent a change in U.S. behaviors in the eyes of the world.
The is only one answer – Hillary! The Clinton's have a remarkable BRAND identity outside of the US. The rest of the world really didn't care about the shenanigans that the US dwelled upon during Bill's tenure. What did matter was the relative stability both economically and politically that was enjoyed during those years. Hillary is a powerful women and you know she was there every step of the way in the background. She is also the ONLY candidate who understands group love – the love of individuals, of cities, of states, and the world – dynamically applied.
MM, Toronto ON Canada
Well Jack, since John McCain wants to keep troops in Iraq for the next 100 years, I don't feel good about America, so I wouldn't expect the world to feel better about us either. So, either Sen. Obama or Sen. Clinton would do a better job making the world feel better about America.
Patricia
Palmdale, Ca.
Jack,
The only one that can and will is President Barack Obama!
Almost anyone whose name isn’t Bush or isn’t described as Bush Lite will be able to get our respect back. As far as resuming our position of power goes, that will be a lot more difficult since we have dug the hole much too deep to climb out. We will need lots of help and we don’t have that many friends anymore. Thanks George.
Obama already has positively captured the world's attention. and the US desperately needs some positive PR.
A while back you asked why the rest of the world was paying so much attention to this election. It's not the whole world, only those countries who were seduced, blackmailed or tricked into becoming a part of the Iraq coalition.
We want George W. Bush out of the White House and a new, respectable, responsible, trustworthy, reliable and honest President replacing him.
Senator Clinton is demonstrating old fashined trickery and dishonesty during this campaign and John McCain is justifiably being referred to as Bush3.
Obama will put together an exprienced team to govern the country and his inspirational style and substance will help a great deal towards restoring some of the U.S.A.'s reputation.
Barack Obama of course. This is why the WORLD is noticing him.
Hillary is all that and a bag of chips. She will get the job done. She is a fighter. She is an achiever. She can negotiate. She knows and has met a lot of the leaders of other countries. Other country leaders have stated that they would support her being the President. She will maximize her relationships with these other leaders and will bring us back to outstanding credibility of the United States of America. Our foreign policy relationships have been slim to none the past 7 years and she will get things back on the table that need handled and will make it a priority.
Didn't Obama win the primary of Americans which were around the world? His foreign policies don't makes us looks like fat pompous jerks. If elected, we can finally just be fat jerks.
Obama.
But since when is restoring our position in the world any sort of priority? The Clinton / McCain (bush) reality has more inertia than anyone can possibly get in motion from their insider positions. Both of them are indeed ready at Day One to continue the status quo – but why do I point out the obvious to you, Jack?
We need an outside force, and in this election that force is the ability of Senator Obama to focus the people of this nation on the need for real change. Whether he has the ability to harness the energy of the nation and bring about restoration of normalcy remains to be seen, but it certainly worth 'rolling the dice' for in terms of importannce.
After Bush and company have ruined our standing in the world, by there policies of isolationism. We definitely need a candidate who has the charisma and the vision to restore our country back to its previous standing in the eyes of the world as an honest broker and beacon of hope and greatness. Some one who is not afraid of diplomacy and is not seen as stubborn and narrow minded. Obama would be the right candidate for this. His unique heritage, positions him to deal with the problems in the third world countries, the Middle East etc. in a far better manner then any other candidate. He will appeal to there psyche of an honest and understanding person far better then anyone else. Let’s not forget in today’s evolving world most of the threats we face are from these regions. I don’t think Hilary or McCain will command as much respect as Obama. Also in the rest of the world he will be seen as a giant leap in us healing our own differences. He definitely brings a positive aura which the other candidates lack.
Jack- How about the "Dream Ticket" idea – with Obama and Clinton
together, I would have some faith!
Barak Obama, absolutely. In my travels overseas I have had an earful of criticism about Bush, US foreign policy and even our domestic policies (which are now dragging down the world economy). I haven't heard this kind of venom since the Vietnam war. Our friends overseas are tired of the 20 year reign of Clinton and the Bushes. Hillary only represents an extension of that, and McCain's endorsement by Bush and his "100 year" view towards Iraq scares the you know what out of them. Electing Barak Obama as our next president will be broadly viewed as America finally changing course and making a bold move by electing our first African American! We need to restore our credibility and we need to do it now!
obviously it's Barack Obama. the Europeans already see him as a 21st century Jack Kennedy and he appears to have NO preconceived notions about negotiating with other countries. Hillary Clinton and especially John McCain both seem to have a closed minded "Cold War" mentality which prevents then from talking to other countries that may disagree with our foreign policy.
One word: Obama. Sad fact, but true – world leadership as a whole still does not have respect for women leadership like Americans do within our own country. Hillary would not be ideal, because she's a mud-slinger and not a peace-maker – hence, creating a diplomatic nightmare. I'm not even sure if she'll contain her tears around the U.N. table if she's not getting her way. It's just not worth the gamble.
Obama for sure.
I have only heard one candidate who seems interested in changing the dynamic. McCain seems to relish being the ememy of the world. Clinton wants to show that she's tough. The truth is, you don.t have to act tough to be tough. if we want our country to stand for something, it would be nice to be led by someone who can articulate what that something is, and have enough charisma to get people's attention. Obama's credibility does not come from his resume or from an extreme agenda. His power seems to come from within. He is the most likely of the three to make principle-based decisions. That works.
That would be Obama. Japan, Europe, Middle East have all reported that they are waiting for Obama. Clinton would be second and the last would be McCain. No one wants another Bush cronie.
No doubt Obama can–McCain will continue the current Bush policies so I can't see he will change any thing; Clinton talks about her travels to other countries but with all her negative campaigning I'm sure countries are not going to embrace her open arms.
The answer is clear, Obama. And this comes from a person that has actualy traveled to half a dozen countries in the last year. The problem is that people around the world are tired of the US policies of the last couple decades, particularly on Iraq. Obama is the only candidate that opposed this war from the begining and perhaps that is why muslims from all parts of the world like him. Don't you think we can bring peace in the middle east with someone like that?
Of course Obama.. already people all over the world are welcoming him as our next President ...
Obama. He has more of a worldly view to politics, and the world is watching this presidential election. Obama seems to represent a new inclusive approach, meeting with rival leaders, taking a pro-active approach to trade, and refocusing the war on terror. Sometimes new is better, just because it's new.
That would have to go to McCain, Obama and Clinton are going to tax us to death to pay for all their programs, Then borrow to give away benefits to anyone that dosen't work, or is here illegal. This might sound harsh but it is the Democrats way of doing business. They offer all kinds of programs but they take from the middle and take some more. If McCain can be true to his word we would spend less and the Amercan people will prosper. Don't worry about the war, that's gonna cost us no matter who wins.
Barak Obama would best be capeable of restoring the respect of the U.S. that other countries once had for us. Jack, BB (Before Bush) we had that respect and admiration. But unfortunately, 'Uniter' failed to unite and managed only to be a divider. Then managed to nearly burn the bridge that connected that divide. Barak has the gravitas to be successful in a reunification.
Los Angeles, CA
Obama is the only one who can lead the US on a new path of peace and respect for all countries.
Obama would be the best candidate. As a "child of the world", father from another continent, raised in Hawaii, attended school in Indonesia, Harvard Law Grad, constitutional professor – he best reflects that America is the "melting pot" of its past. Along with that and his calm, cool, confident composure, we (and the world) wouldn't have to worry about flippant or aggressive statements that we would have to redeem ourselves for in the future.
Either Clinton or Obama. Actually anybody but "bomb bomb bomb ... Iran" McCain.
It is true that the world needs a new leader but not just in terms of weapons and dollars. The new world leader should lead in proactively preserving the already scare resources while inspring the minds (especially the young ones) to create a lead in knowledge. Fortunately, the US has all the pre-requisites in terms of infrastructure and talent. What is the need of the hour is a change in mindset, that we can reach for the moon again from a rhetoric to a landing in 10 years! Who is best suited to bring that mindset? Who else, but Obama!
I believe Hillary Clinton would be the best President to restore America's global reputation. Back as far as her days in college at Wellesley in the late 1960's she has demonstrated her diplomatic skills and conviction for change. With her as the Student Government President there were no major demonstrations necessitating police intervention or chaos. As Carl Bernstein points out in his book,"A Woman in Charge," she favored compromise to achieve the student body's goals. For the time, she and her classmates made considerable progress using her methods. I suggest that Obama read this book to get some insights into Hillary's experience and capabilities.
There is no doubt that Hillary is. She is strong, positive and compassionate about the people in our country.She shows time and time again how much she cares ,when she takes time out of her campaign to comfort others.Obama makes excuses and we dont need them in the Oval Office.Hillary is straight up ,Red,White and Blue.She has the know how and the qualifications to turn our country around. Bainbridge, N.y.
Jack, without a doubt, Barack Obama can best restore the U.S. position in the world! For one thing, we would have a man of integrity who will seek diplomacy first instead of rushing off to war like the current Administration did.His life experience and judgement will prove soothing to our nation/world that has had King George the Decider for the past almost 8 years!
Clearly Barack Obama is the candidate that would do the best job restoring America's position in the world. The world is looking at this election as much as we Americans are.
Obama will bring a new kind of politics to both our nation and our world. He will protect our national interests first. We can not fight battles on every front. We must open on lines of communication which he will do. And if needed, he will also not fear to negotiate.
It is not about who can fight all the time, it is about who can lead. I believe Barack Obama can take this nation back to being the nation that is admired and respected by the entire world.
In my opinion, Obama by leaps and bounds. Just watch the debate in Ohio. Even though Hillary bashed and bashed him, he remainded positive and even complimented her several times. The troubled world, including our country needs a leader, not a divider like HRC or "The Straight Talk Express".
obviously Barrack, but he doesn't have the 'experience' to show it....So I guess it's up to the two crazies...
McCain would be the best person to restore our position. He has proven that he is not a person to mess with, but also has the ability to come around to what his constituents want. Clinton and Obama don't care about what we want and will not do what we feel is in "our" best interest.
When you do things as our elected official, you are there to represent the peoples' position, not your own agenda, lobbyists or corporate America.
Mary Steele
Yorktown VA
Jack,
I truly believe Obama is the only viable option to restoring America's standing in the International Community. McCain is just a continuation of the current Bush Administration policy, we will be hated as much or more with him and desire for a prolonged wars in Iraq & Afghanistan. Hillary has already stated she is not willing to meet unfriendly nations without a slew of prerequistie conditions. Nothing about her past history or current positions suggest she would be a very diplomatic President. Obama has clearly stated his willingness to meet with "Hostile Nations", he was almost crucified by the press and HRC for stating his positon on diplomacy! "Fear not to Negotiate" as JFK so eloquently stated years ago1
Craig Cole
Las Vegas, Nevada
Barrack Obama.
Why? because an African American winning would tell the world that we all finally grew up.
Hillary Clinton, President
Barrak Oboma, Vice President
Bill Clinton, Secretary of State
John Edwards, Attorney General
Joe Biden, Joint Chief of Staff
McCain will look like more of the same American politics, Clinton is a continuation of the political machine that led to Bush, and Obama will look like a huge break from the no-diplomacy Bush administration.
Jack,
Hillary keeps saying she has 35 years of experience, I'd just like to know what it is.
My husband is a cropduster, but I can't fly a plane.
How can you restore anything if you can't fly?
kmac
Well, Pres. Gore, John Edwards and/or Joseph Biden would all have been excellent for this task. However, they are sadly not available now and no one is going to be elected who can do this. Hillary has a marginal chance against McCain; she could certainly restore our lost position, but I fear that McCain will win, for reasons that all of us who remember 1980, 1988, 2000 and 2004 should understand.
What we need to restore the position of the USA is another Teddy Roosevelt, unfortunately we don't have one, so we'll have to just "settle" for the lesser of three evils. None of the three still out there impress me as someone who would start looking out for America for a change instead of pandering to the rest of the world which looks upon us with contempt.
I think Obama can do that if given the chance. He will not be able to do it overnight..after all it has taken many years to get to where we are now.
In spite of Hillary and Bill and that gang insulting Obama for his speeches, a great leader is usually a great orator and with that comes a great negotiator too.
Leaders who cannot communicate intelligently to their own people, sure as hell are not going to get anywhere with world leaders. Being perceived as a "fighter" is not always the best concept to portray. Hillary is not the woman this country needs to be president in spite of all her speeches of having more experience. Yelling at Bill does not give her experience and demeaning others to gain power just shows what a power hungry shrew she really is.
The world is a completely different place than you and I grew up in, Jack. I don't know if we can ever return to "our place" in the world. I'm looking to the younger candidate, Obama, who might actually take us to a "new place" in the world.
Honestly, I do believe it is Obama. I'm a believer that being able to talk and bring others into the conversation with reason makes changes. In fact, during the segment ran last night with the young adults in Iran, they wanted someone who would talk not resort to fighting first. It worked in the past, with the great leaders America loved and still do, i.e., the Kennedys and Martin. It seemed to of disappeared over the last 16-20 years and since the disappearance when have been viewed so negative. Lets get those days back , back to be able to be proud-very proud of America!
This is a no brainer... Obama. What kind of question is this? Have you been smoking some recently, Jack?
Barack Obama. He acts and sounds like a mature, responsible, and intelligent leader. We haven't had someone like that in in the oval office for a long time. It is hard for the rest of the world to respect playboys and cowboys or those who have close ties to them.
Medina, OH
Jack,
Why don't you report that Canada's Prime Minister Chief of Staff, Ian Brodie, Just stated that the Hillary campaign Approached him about the NAFTA comments and told him to take the comments with a grain of salt! So This is all over the Canadian News but here no one is talking about it !!!
To restore US position, the President will have to convince the rest of the world's leaders to go along with the US agenda. To do this, there has to be some acknowledgement and understanding of events of the past eight years. The candidate with the best qualification to deal with the presnt crop of heads of states is McCain, followed closely by Clinton. Obama will get chewed up and spit out by that seasoned crowd sitting in the Middle East, Europe and Asia.
Obama without a doubt! He can bring the Nation together and restore our standing in the world.
Jack:
Not one of the current candidates can restore Americas standing in the world today.
The only thing that can restore the respect America use to have in the world is TIME, along with America stop trying to police the affairs of other nations. They need to learn to deal with their own problems without assistance, otherwise they will ALWAYS be dependant on others.
Ern In Turlock,Ca.
I have just three words regarding enhancing our positionon the world stage...
Obama, Obama, Obama
None. Personally Jack, I don't think our image will look all that well when one of the candidates bankrupts America.
Brett
Cincinnati, OH
That's easy Mr. Cafferty, Mr. Barack Obama. I'm sure you agree.
Jack, There is only one that can Barack Obama , and heres my reasoning Hillary talks alot about her experience when did she do anything when her and Bill were in the white house with foreign leaders nothing of significance that changed the world,listening to her now its all negative ,because of Georges stance with world leaders we will need to have someone in office that is willing to communicate with these people,Mccain has said that he will mirror Bush and to me that will be the same attitude that s in the oval office right now. A hard stance and no communication and we will be in Iraq one hundred years!!!!!
Jack the foreign policy of John McCain is so similar to the current administration that I'm seeing ads now calling him McSame. These are the policies that have brought much of the world to hold us in such low regard so it wouldn't be him. Whichever Democratic candidate can project themselves as the most honest and above reproach would be the best to repare our countries image globally. Mrs Clinton has so much dirty laundry and questionable contacts in her past I have to believe the person best suited to accomplish this task is Barack Obama.
Senator Clinton is best situated to restore America's standing in the world. The world will expect significant changes with a woman in charge. Senator Obamo will make a nice first impression, but he's not too well known in the world of diplomacy. Senator McCain will simply reinforce what many think of President Bush. Hillary has the international contacts so necessary to working with world leaders. And so does Bill Clinton.
Jack, I see that Howard Dean,Ted Kennedy, the Kennedy clan, John Kerry and Sen.Dolittle ahve decided for the democrats that Barrack Obama is best suited for the presidency. But I the voter and many of the rest especially in Mich. and Florida have chosen Hillary Clinton, the People of those states have spoken and can't fight what the state democrat party has done to them.
Hillaty Clinton is being beat up by those that she and Bill have supported for years and that is a shame, I am dropping out of the democrat party as of today.
Senator John McCain would do the best job restoring Americas positron in the world our luster is lost the Iraq; quagmire will be remember by the world for generations to come. Both Senators Clinton and Obama will place all the blame on President Bush that does not help the nation. We elect leaders to lead not blame. Senator McCain will not blame anyone he will look to change the image with the card dealt not ask for a new deck.
Hello Mr. Cafferty: I am a 53 y.o registered independant. Although I was raised in a republican voting family, I have always voted democratic. At this point I am undecided as to whether I will vote democratic or republican. And although Obama is certainly an educated, charismatic man who may be able to restore our image in the world, I lean toward either Clinton or McCain in this election because of their experience. It is a dangerous world in which we live & what matters is not only restoring our image in the world but keeping our military supported and strong. My father who drove an army tank in WWII under Patton used to say something to me when I was younger that I didn't quite get until later in life. He said "Celeste, there will always be war because there will always be someone evil who wants power and control." Today I get it. Granted, the idea of peace on earth through negotiation, as well as, teaching the acceptance of one God for all, is indeed inspiring, my fear is, like my dad said, there will always be someone wanting and getting power who does not care to be negotiable,diplomatic, or inspired. So as crazy as it may sound, I will be making a choice between Clinton & McCain in hopes that one of them can restore our image in the world and at the same time be strong militarily. I am afraid that there are a lot of younger voters that are being swept away by charismatic and idealistic goals, with no depth of knowledge of the real world. One more note; The idealistic notion coming from Obama that suggests he is the candidate of change is kind of ridiculous. Anyone who has lived in this world long enough knows his premise of a new type of politics, though nobel, is not likely. Our political system just will not operate without being influenced by money and power .
Without a question that would be Obama. Who else is going to do it Hillary who tries to sway people with fear tactics and intimidation. Who Mccain who wants to keep us in a war that his mavrick partner in crime president bush got us into even though the world community told him not to. I was in the navy and had a chance to hear from people in many different countries. Understand people don't like us cause we think we're so much better than everybody else. Obama is humble and fair that will go a long way in changing the way the world looks at us
Obama, hands down. He is a living symbol of some of what other people in the world admire about America-- the product of hard work and the goodness of ordinary folks. This child of an immigrant has made the most of an opportunity for a good education, succeeded,
and generously given back by serving and helping others. This speaks louder than words alone-and he's no slouch in the words department either.
The other two would go into international arena with a whole lot of baggage.
Clinton, having played the "two for the price of one" card will never be able to escape the conscious or unconscious perception that she is some kind of surrogate. She is forever tied her dynasty's policies.
It's too bad, but that's the truth. As for her international experience, how a First Lady with no security clearance can claim major negotiating coups beats me.
McCain is more of the "Old West" cowboy type. He has served a long time, but it is hard to imagine him dealing with any issues of the 21st century that are not military.
OOOOOObama ! Jack. There is no doubt about that and you don't have to wear some specific glasses to see the excitement that his candidacy is bringing around the world. Even in Benin, we are very exciting about that.
Patient.
Benin, west of Africa
Jack
Thats an easy one, McCain, then he could get Cindy and her
Million Dollar Beer Distribution Company to go Worldwide.
Everyone loves a cold beer once in awhile.
America we Love Ya.
Jerry
Roselle, Illinois
AL GORE – HANDS DOWN!!
Definitely Obama. With his global perspective and "presidential" manner, he can repair our image much better than the strident shrew who is Hillary Clinton.
Her smug face itself is alienating; her voice is like a rusty sawblade. She would send the rest of the world scuttling for a hand job. Don't let history repeat itself!
With Clinton other countries would immediately assume a return to pre-Bush policies. With Obama there would be hope but probably a wait and see attitude. McCain supports Bush's policies so his electionwould have anegative effect.
To use an analogy, let's say that George W. Bush was acid reflux disease.
Then, John McCain would be lemon juice (he'd make it worse).
Hillary would be Mylanta (she would help for a while, but the problem will come back).
Obama would be Nexium (he's the healing purple pill).
That is most definitely Obama...THE WORLD IS WATHICNG, AND THEY WANT OBAMA. We do not even need to specualte it...all the studies done around the world drastically favor Obama winning. When I talk to my family in other countries (England, Germany, Columbia etc...) they are having intelligent discussions with me about SUPERDELEGATES, they are studying this race as closely as we are here, and (things I myself did not even know about) and they are all rooting for OBAMA!!!!
STOP THE HATE, VOTE OBAMA 08!!!!!
Hillary. Definitely Hillary!
Hillary Clinton is old guard status quo in which her quo has past it status. American needs to move forward and as much as it hurts, we need to vote for "change." Obama is has the best chance. McCain will only be another Hillary except in a different party. Why is it that when the American voters have a chance to vote for the best candidate, the best candidate is never on the options of choices?
Obama would restore our position in the world, but lets look at what that means. It would have to include believing in global warming and pledging to fight it. That would further reduce our manufacturing sector, put another nail in that coffin. He would also lean more towards socialism which is most of the world right now. The bottom line is that being the well liked country isn't good for us. How can the rest of the world not like us with all of the money we give other countries for aid? Most of the other countries are jealous and bite the hand that feeds them. Judge a country not by its friends, but by it's enemies. Most of the world is parasitic towards the US.
Barack Obama is best positioned....He can inspire others around the world just as he has the voters in the US.
Jack,
It depends on what America's position is. That doesn't sound like something that's decided by the American people. So the real question is who's the best candidate to represent the American people and our ideals to the rest of the world? When you break it down like that there's really only one answer, Obama. He wants to talk to our enimies and allies, he wants the war to end, he's offering ethics reform in Washington and transparency at all levels and he wants America to take care of America. That sounds alot like what the rest of the world wants from us too.
A rattlesnake could do a better job than what is in office now. I am counting down the days when this lot has vacated the house.
Sorry, Jack, but I think this is a dumb question that at least a third of the country probably doesn't want to admit the answer to. Let’s look at each one individually. McCain=Bush, so that's a no. Hillary Clinton represents hope to a lot of women around the world, true, but her name has been wrapped in controversy for years and while it may not be politically correct to say, how much thought have we given to how the leaders of the Muslim worlds are going to broach their US diplomacy with a female at the wheel. Barack Obama has a diverse background and has lived abroad. His interests extend beyond party lines and beyond Washington and that is one of the things that draws people to him. It is also what has and will continue to draw the world to him. You may be able to question his experience, his naiveté, even his religious past, but whether or not he is the best uniting force this country has seen in decades, that even you cannot question.
Kandi from Colonial Heights, Virginia
That's a easy one Jack.... Al Gore/Lou dobbs ......that's the dream ticket!!
From all of Obama's wins prior to Tuesday the most impressive, I feel, was the 'Democrats abroad' primary. These are people who know firsthand what the rest of the world thinks about America and it's citizens. Two-thirds of Democratic Americans overseas felt that Barack Obama was the best choice to lead the country. I can't help but think that America's presence overseas weighed heavily on their minds when they voted for him nearly 2-to-1 over Clinton.
As long as candidates keep using the term "Islamic extremists" no one is going to be able to avoid offending over 1 billion people worldwide. It literally adds insult to injury, since they now think we are in the Middle East to fight Islam. We need to send a message to them that we do not support the actions of the Bush regime, and electing McCain is certainly not going to do that. Clinton and Obama pledge to at least withdraw our troops from Iraq, but Obama pledges to meet with foreign leaders that we may or may not be on good terms with. Obama also shows he has the better judgement, having opposed the Iraq war from the start, so he gets my vote.
Not Bawl Bag Clinton that's for sure. I get a visual of her bawling while dealing with China...who has little or no respect for females in goverment to begin with, they would have a field day with her differing personalities she has displayed during this race.
Obama, hands down! He has so much more to offer and he's genuine! Hillary doesn't offer anything new and besides she can't leave Bill alone to roam around by himself!!!!!
Restoring our credibility in the world? My bet is on Hillary! She's got
the experience, and as a perfectionist, she'd work like a dog til she
had it right.
Her judgment is definitely better than someone who would put his trust in Rezko.... then blame another for not having judgment on another topic!
Yes. rules are rules and most be adhered to. You cannot eat your cake and then ask for it again. Democratic party officials in Michigan and Florida were not ignorant of party rules. Hindsight, they probably would have not held their primaries in violation of party rules. To revisit the two primaries certainly would not be fair especially to Obama whose name was not even on the ballot in the Michigan primary. Next time, Florida and Michigan should stick to party rules.
Call me crazy, but I'm actually focusing on who is qualified to be president as my main priority - not who is more popular, or who is fresh and unscared from previous political battles. We as voters should be looking at this like a job interview where we need to determine which candidate actually has the experience and depth of knowledge to do the job. Will it really matter if the rest of the world is happy with our selection, if that means we elect someone who may not necessarily be prepared to tackle the tough issues facing the next president? Senator Obama shows a lot of promise, but I do not think his years in the Illinois State Senate have prepared him to take on the presidency YET (a few more years in the Senate or as Vice President would make a big difference).
Jack
Surrounding himself with a good foreign policy team lead by a strong secretary of state, I am positive Barack Obama would be the person to restore our position throughout the world.
Hillary Clinton, President
Barrak Oboma, Vice President
Bill Clinton, Secretary of State
John Edwards, Attorney General
Joe Biden, Joint Chief of Staff
Al Gore, Secretary of Interior
Jack Cafferty, Whitehouse Press Secretary
No question,Sen. Obama. A new face for a new America. Obama has already said that if we keep continuing to act as if we are so much better than the rest of the world, we will never get ahead. I agree with that. Sen. Clinton and Sen. McCain saying that being more diplomatic and trying to communicate with friends and enemies is being "naive" is silly. It's naive to think more of the same "we're better than you" foriegn policies is going to continue to work.
Hillary is my bet.She will be tuogh to the leaders she needs to be and will restore the american economy .It will be hard after 8 years of GW for anyone to restore anyting.But I think she has the best shot at it,
John McCain has no concept of how our invasion of Iraq is perceived around the world. Or if he does, he doesn't care. McCain would bumble along in straightjacket of President Bush's foreign policy . I wouldn't give two euros for the international experiences he has incorrectly internalized.
Hillary Clinton might show some spark of connection with other nations. It would depend on what's in it for her.
But Barack Obama would project the best of America through his broad and ongoing efforts at dialog. He comes across as the best diplomat of the bunch.
Certainly not McCain, Hillary wouldn't get any respect from the Muslim nations because she a woman, so we're left with Obama. We must learn how to talk with people again. also, if we don't clean up our own house first there won't be any reason to talk to any one!
Obama, he alone has advocated meeting with our enemies and allies. How can you ever resolve differences if there is no discussion or debate? Both John McCain and Hillary scoff at this as being naive but how will that stand ever bring about real change that restores our standing in the world? Hillary and McCain try to distort this as sending the wrong message but I beleive this is the right way and have faith that Obama will not do anything foolish.
If we pick Mccain it looks like we haven't learned our lesson with the gun toting republicans. If we pick Clinton it looks like out of the entire population, we only have two families that we can come up with to lead us. If we pick Obama it looks like we're taking a chance on a young dynamic president. Sounds good!
Jack,
Obama has impressed many foreign leaders, definately him.
Maybe he could send Bill & Hill as good will ambassadors.
BJ from FL
OBAMA without a doubt! The world remembers Hillary from her First Lady days. McCain never heard of "diplomacy". Duh-Duh Dubya has alienated our allies, made a sham of diplomacy and has half the World holding our "markers" and waiting to collect in the form of trade treaties that destroy American stability and security. The greatest threat to our security is IMPOTENCE. And make no mistake, The World is watching this election...and shaking their heads in dismay.
If we want to be the model for democracy, we NEED to start rebuilding with all the values that made us great. "Shame" and "corruption" are not democratic virtues
JaCK
While Clinton's crew may belittle it, Obama's inherit connection and ties to other cultures and parts of the world makes him by far the superior choice. The world is watching and perhaps one who resembles the true MultiCulture nature of the planet will pull it off.
Or we could have another crusty old white guy... that's been working so well
Didn't the Democrats Abroad contest already sum this up? Take it from people who actually LIVE outside US
Since we will have either Sen. Clinton or Sen. Obama on the Democratic ticket, I believe they would be much better at creating a better image of America. To better enhance this image, I would make John Edwards Secretary of State. He and his wife, Elizabeth, would make an awesome duo at creating the image our country so desperately needs abroad. I would have preferred them in the White House, but that was not to be.
Obama is best suited to get America's reputation back in a favorable light because he is willing to listen and engage in a dialogue with other nations. He is intelligent and represents diversity.
Clinton carries too much " Bill baggage" and McCain is nothing but a "Weekend at Bernie's" war monger.
Jack - that is a tough question. I think to truly answer this question, one would need to spend a few months on a well researched essay.
In short: I think Obama would probably the best choice if you are looking to increase world wide public opinion of the US and were going to try to increase international coooperation among governments. If you are looking to maintain the United State's role as the dominant (somewhat hegemonic) world power, I think McCain would be the way to go.
"Which candidate would do the best job restoring America’s position in the world?"
Everything that is wrong in our country, such as sub-prime, high cost of oil, etc. is caused by the people of the United States. We have become so divisive (conflicted would be easier for you and Wolf), that we no longer even attempt to show any respect to the other side and are becoming one big nation of egocentric individuals.
It would take a person that has demonstrated the ability to inspire and not be divisive (Ooops, sorry), to begin to overcome this.
One thing is for certain, we don't need another "uniter".
Hillary is divisive and boring.
McCain at times, can be boring.
That leaves Obama..
Harry
Kentucky
Michael Bloomberg, but he is not running now.
It is without a doubt Obama. Everywhere in the world people are looking to America in the hopes that we will elect him as president. They agree with his policies and they understand, perhaps better than we do, the kind of change he would bring to America and its reputation in the world.
Obama would best restore America's position in the world. He is the reason the world is watching our election process this year. The world knows what Clinton brings to the table and it would be a welcomed change as well from the maverick , gunslinging, wild west bullying ways of Bush. But Obama is a fresh face of the promise of what democracy was, is, and shall be. Who better to mediate peace in the middle east, africa, and abroad? For the first time world leaders would be dealing with U.S. President that looks like them. What a message that would send to the rest of the world!
John McCain. He is the only one with enough life expierience to see the whole picture, as it is , not how he wants to see it. Obama thinks he can go anywhere in the world and inspire people into a trance, then achieve his goals before the fog of his power clears. It`s not that simple. McCain is not George Bush. Every democrat wants to paint a picture of McCain and Bush standing side by side like twins. These are two seperate men with different ideas. McCain has the knowledge to fix problems without having to do it wrong, and then try again. Every President inherits problems that were created by the one before them. If Bill Clinton wouldn`t have cut our millitary in half in favor of a balanced budget, we would not have a terrorist problem to deal with. John McCain has to live in this country with us, and I think our safety is his top priority.
. . . . .Senator Barack Obama. Hillary Clinton cannot even restore her position
and credibility in the Democratic Party. Barack's message is already resonating around the world. Even other countries are proud of him.
Obama 08.
This is a "lesser of evils" question. It is the same one we are faced with every election. I can say which one I DON'T want, and that is Hillary. Going back to a question last week, if she can not deal with the pressure of the media as a candidate, she will crumble in the White House. If she whines this much in the Oval Office, we will not have a leg to stand on internationally.
We can only make our best guesstimates, but based on past performances (an old horse players measuring stick) that Hillary Clinton would be the best candidate to bring about real change in the world. John McCain is a war monger, so he would just make things worse, and Barrack Obama would be a rookie in world politics. Hillary makes the hair stand up on my back, and she won't back down from an argument with any other world leader, can you see Obama doing that. He is too nice of a guy, and a gentleman to be a leader on the world stage.
Mr. Obama no doubt. This guy is your man, hope you know how lucky you are,
Obama is perfectly cast to restore American's world image and even redefine it for the future. He embodies America's promise: that talent, initiative and education trump class, privilege and race. Not only that, but his international persona could help our foreign adversaries better identify with us and be open to trusting us. He is the global figure for this global age, hands down!
I think Obama being the second generation immigrant is in a better position to restore our image around the globe. He has a plan which will bring respect,honour and dignity to this nation. Folks, remember that in November we won't be electing the American President only but actually the world leader so be smart by choosing someone who will be a symbol of peace and harmony .
Obama of course. With his diverse background, and dignified manner other nations of the world would see that America actually stands for all of the ideals that our country was built on.
how about "NONE OF THE ABOVE" It is going to take more than 4 years for the United States to get back the credibility we had before W took over and really screwed things up. I would be surprised if the United States can get back to the point we were at in 20 years.
Barack Obama is the only hope for restoring America's standing in the world! The Clintons will only drive us deeper into the proverbial ditch.
Obama, he alone has advocated meeting with our enemies and allies. How can you ever resolve differences if there is no discussion or debate? Both John McCain and Hillary scoff at this as being naive but how will that stand ever bring about real change that restores our standing in the world? Hillary and McCain try to distort this as sending the wrong message but I beleive this is the right way and have faith that Obama will not do anything foolish.
Keith – Texas
Obama, obviously. Did anyone else catch the "I'm ready to rule the world" comment from Hillary? You could hear the rest of the world cringing.
Obama stands up and stands out. He has stated he is willing to negotiate, shocking as that may be. Who knew presidents could actually talk to other countries (even ones we don't get along with), and listen to them, too!
Barack Obama would do the best job restoring America’s position in the world. The world is watching the US election and Obama’s distinction from the old style of politics is honest and refreshing. The Clinton's old style campaign told the people of Ohio that Oboma's NAFTA comments to Canada were questionable and today in the Canadian papers Canada’s Prime Minister's Chief of Staff, Ian Brodie, is quoted as saying the Clinton campaign approached him about the NAFTA comments and he told him to take the comments with a grain of salt and not to worry ! Brodie goes on to say " he has no recollection of discussing any specific candidates name with the press. So the Clinton's owe Oboma an apology and the people of Ohio & Texas got duped by the Clintons again.
Hillary, is the only one who has had any experience in foriegn affairs. She has NOT threatend to bomb PAKISTAN which we all know has made many middle east issues worse and clearly shows Obama has no experience in foriegn issues or he would keep a lid on what actions he is planning.
I know you support Obama but thats the way I look at it when it comes to foriegn affairs. –
Dennis,
What makes you think it CAN be restored? If we are such a bad country then why does everyone want to come here? Perhaps we need to cut off all of our Grain, healthcare assistance and military Aid to those that do not like us. We ship millions of dollars all around the world daily to help the less fortunate and we do it for free while we struggle daily to feed and clothe our own families. I really don't personally give a damn what other countries think of us. That is the trouble with America. We are teaching our children to be globalist's first and then if anything is left they can use it at home where it is needed.
If fighting can restore our position in the world then Senator McCain. If networking and relationships then Senator Clinton and if diplomacy is needed Obama is the right person.
Since a little of all of the above is what is truly warranted, then America needs the intervention of someone greater than all of the senators. God Himself. That is if that is still political correct.
Absolutely no contest here Jack. Barack Obama and ONLY Barack Obama. All other current contenders will fall way short in this respect.
Barack Obama spent a portion of his chidhood grrowing up in Indonesia. He seems to have the best global perspective on what America should mean to the rest of the world, how it fits into the big picture. He seems to be pretty well liked abroad, so they will listen to him when he speaks for US.
At this point it is going to take a long time to restore our "position" in the world. The Bush administration has put us in such deep hole that whomever is elected President is going to have to dig us out in the years to come.
That's easy, Hillary is the only candidate who has the experience and the know how to begin to restore our image in the world. McCain is just more of what we've had eight years of with Bush and Obama has zero experience, I don't want McCain, he will only lkeep us locked into a war that never should've begun and Obama's lack of experience and the fact that he can't even understand an important issue brought up before him for a vote and then after it is explained to him after he's voted, then decides he wanted to vote the other way. That scares me. How is he going to be the leader of our country handling important issues if he can't even vote on issues in the Senate?
There is only one candidate without a doubt the has the a reputation for telling the truth and standing by our constitution and that is Ron Paul. I would like to see anyone compare Ron to Obama, Hillary or McCain. The dream candidate we have been looking for is here and people look into this and challenge me on this. Ron Paul is for peace not war and no income tax you can afford health care when you are not giving the feds 30% of your hard earned cash!! Ron has also been praised by members of the CIA and other goverment posts for having the correct outlook on our foreign policies. People dont like people who invade there privacy and stick their noses and their tanks where they dont belong. Wake up America Iraq has nothing to do with us except for George W's investment in foreign oil. Has the goverment been right about one thing about the war?
Barack Obama is the only one that can restore our position in the world. This election is being watched as closely by the rest of the world as it is by we Americans, thanks to the last eight years imperialism. McCain is seen as a Bush imitation and a bad one at that. Clinton has slung too much mud and won't come clean with taxes and a lot of other issues and doesn't really represent the changes we need to make in the worlds eyes. Obama is the only one that will go into the Oval Office on day one, turn off the auto pilot of the last administration and move us in positive direction.
Jack
Let's see. All 3 are open border advocates. Everyone outside America should like that.
A tough "can do" candidate with a "limelight loving" womanizing husband, a naive "hope" candidate with a angry negative wife, and an "older than dirt" militaristic candidate who is another "decider". Hmmm. Just might be a tie!
Of all the candidates McCain will keep the world divided and agitated. If he is elected with his temper he will have us in more wars then america can handle Kosovo,Iran,southeast asia,and etc. Putin will celebrate if McCain is elected.
Well considering McCain likes to fight senseless wars and will not speak to leaders of enemy or unfriendly nations, and Hillary will only speak to them if they have made steps towards demcracy, freedom, and civil rights; somehow expecting countries that hate us to make take initiative, Obama is clearly the best one to restore America's position.
Furthermore, while some would have you think inspiration, hope, and a respectable role model is useless to the president- there is nothing that could better reinstate the US to what we had been previously known for.
Bucks County, PA
Jack, we need a leader who will pay attention to the domestic needs of his/her people - the economy, environment, secure borders, and national security should be his/her primary concern. At the same time, i he/she cannot overreact on international issues but use the right judgement when evaluating world issues, having the guts to show US force without always stepping in to be the world's policeman. He/she must listen to those from overseas who are our friends.
I wonder which of the candidates is able to properly deal in all directions - honestly, I am not sure if McCain, Obama, or Clinton can fill the bill.
Hillary Clinton can. Countries were more receptive to the Clintons. Other countries will walk all over Barack Obama. People will become angry and ballistic towards the U.S. if grumpy old man, McCain, is in power. Hillary is right smack in the middle.
Go Hillary!!!!!!
Obama without question. There are people around the world who are sick and tired of America trying to police the world and sick of the Iraq War. With this unpopular war, Sen Clinton and Mccain voted to authorize it while Obama has been against it from the start. I think people around the world would like a U.S President who has never voted for any war and brings hope to his country and can reunite friendship with other countries who currently dislike us.
I could see a McCain/Huckabee ticket with little effort. If as you say they need a good team to muck out the White House (what was it that Clinton's team did when they left? Was that mucking out before the Bush's team came in or just plain thievery going on and why hasn't Obama mentioned that?) But, as I've said before, no one's any better than they want to be and the want to be is just not in any of them.
Easy one, Barack Obama! The next President can not be afraid to have discourse with world leaders (Friend and Foe). Clinton and McCain are channeling Bush in so many ways on foreign policy including how to relate to foreign leaders and would not rate well Internationally.
Florida
I have been reading all of these post that talk about how much the rest of the world wants Obama to be our next President. Why do you think that is? Could it possibly be because he is looked at as the weaker of the three? We have enemies all around the world who cannot wait for us to elect another wussy like Bill Clinton, so they can take advantage of us. You bet they want Obama. He is already in bed with god knows who, and with him in the white house the door is wide open for anyone looking for a way in. His talks with these terrorist countries could possibly turn out like the recent talks with Canada. Tell us one thing while cutting shady deals on the other side of the door. People better wake up!!
Obama definately Jack, a failed tactic is not in our best interest.
Talking to my cousins in Greece and friends in France, they all said, resoundingly, OBAMA!!!
Thousand Oaks, Ca.
The only way to sway opponents to accept differences in ideologies and to cultivate peace and prosperity is to open dialogues with them. George Bush not only refused to do this, he alienated the rest of the world by trying to shove his version of Democracy down everyone's throat. Obama seems to be the only candidate that understands what diplomats and social scientists have known for decades. Hold your friends close and hold your enemies even closer.
Hillary Clinton as she's not a part of Europe bashing that's gone on the past 7+ years. Also, I feel she will surround herself with people who are willing to be transparent.
As to Senator Obama's attack regarding Senator Clinton's tax return she told Tim Russert she would reveal that nearer April 15.
Obama would be the most popular abroad, but would likely be walked on by other nations. John McCain is even more hard-headed than Bush, so he will be wildly disliked abroad. Hilliary Clinton seems to strike a better balance. She'll be tough when necessary, yet won't have an imperialist view of the world. I think it's about time to give a woman a crack at foreign relations. Maybe Iran and S. Korea should elect women too. We'd all probably get along better.
Obama at least wants to negotiate with the rest of the world. Clinton shows hesitancy and therefore doubt. You can't win trust with memos or email or inept state department representatives. You've get to grab the bull by the tail and face the situation. Hang on Barack, its a tough pull, but clearly you are the only one willing to do it.
Barack should go negative but he should not stray away too much from what got him 12 straight victories. Was not Bill Clinton impeached. The thought of him back in the WhiteHouse at any level is crazy. Barack should talk about experience. Our best experience has got us in the mess we're in: economically and globally. He needs to talk about the experience he's going to surround himself with. Finally, he needs to realize he's going against the Clinton's. If Bill lied to Congress he'll lie to anyone; especially American voters. Barack is the reflection of all people. What he lacks in experience he can compensate by putting the right people in the right places.
Anbody but John McCain, he's not part of the solution, he's part of the problem that changed the image of America around the world. Bottom line, we cannot have another republican white male as president which I believe the world views to be the problem.
I'm a liberal but If Rod Clinton is elected, with her husband back in the White House there could be a rerun of "Wag the Dog", like when he was President, to keep them and the Democratic party out of the dog house in good standing with the public!
I believe McCain would be the 'middle of the road' kinda President. He would not go running to dictators to have a quick 'rap session' as Obama would. And he would actually be taken seriously by countries that do not view women as an appropriate choice for head of a nation. Although we should not base our choice on race or gender 100%, we should remember that some of the nations we are worried about trying to 'talk' to, would laugh at Hillary, and possibly take advantage of Obama's inexperience. This is old hat for McCain. He has it in the bag.
It is going to take a different mind set,Jack. A fresh new approach to todays problems.....and it sure isn't going to happen overnite.There is only 1 man that can do it .Obama. In my opinion the politics of today have passed Hillary and John by........and quickly.
I think Hillary Clinton would do a good job of restoring our position in the world but I think John McCain would do the best job. McCain's experience in the military and his many years of service give him the most knowledge of how to be diplomatic with countries while staying on the offensive against the terrorists. In addition, his personal trial as a prisoner of war will aid him in decisions he has made such as eliminating torture practices that are in violation of the Geneva convention that will restore our respect throughout the world.
This is a toss-up ? Their both great when it comes to debating, thus I would assume they're just as good at negotiating world crises. Oh, I think I left out McCain, sorry John, but the world's got enough of hot-heads in it already, so your out of the equation,Thank-You come again! The only unfairness to this great question (as always), is that, "what about home"? Does anybody ever think we should change our image, our arrogant ways, and be the recipient of another countries constructive criticism. I can only respond with this thought, take care of home first, and the rest of the world would probably follow by example. Eternal Optimist, Earl
Ron Paul hands down.
Hillary Clinton without a doubt. Many people outside US, love Bill Clinton and Hillary can capitalized on that respect for his husband. However, it is going to be darn hard task. 7 years of Bush's arrogance and unilateralism has pissed off many around the world. It will require a hard and consistant effort. I know this very well as a LEGAL immigrant.
Nuwan from Houston, Texas
Excuse me, but I can't see that Barack sitting down to tea with hamas would have any effect what so ever. McCain is the only one who can handle foreign affairs correctly.
It has to be Obama, he is admired overseas and has the bearing of a great leader.To those who ask about experience, I have had the experience of being a child in World War ll England, and of sheltering from the bombs of that war, that certainly does not give me the experience to be president any more than John McCains time in Viet Nam (my husband is also a decorated Viet Nam veteran, we are with Obama all the way. Please discuss the information in all the web sites about Hillary's people calling Canada about NAFTA, it apparently is in the Canadian newspapers. I guess Ohio was stolen!!!
Jack-
Imagine the 3 candidates in a heated discussion with a foreign leader, like that of Iran for example:
Obama – Calm, cool, collected.
McCain – He'll get upset and call in an air strike
Hillary – She'll toss a temper tantrum and stomp her feet til she gets her way, or until the foreign leader slaps her silly.
I would go with Obama on this one.
The only candidate likely to restore the US position in the world is Ron Paul. Contrary to popular belief, he is still running, and still not pandering to every topic known to constituents. He wants to restore the value of the dollar. He wants to restore our freedom, our rights. And he wants to get us out of the world-policing business. How can that be bad?
With out a doubt it would be Obama. Clinton is so sneeky about everything that the rest of the world will not trust her therefore will not belive a single thing she says.
Jack, you have no idea, how many SMS's I got from my friends and family in my home country asking me to vote for Hillary. They love Bill Clinton. That is true with many countries around the world. Obama is new so he has to earn that respect where as Hillary already have it through his husband. No one knows McCain. So the choice is obvious.
Nuwan from Texas
Chicopee, Mass.
Lou Dobbs; isn't he running?
The best to bring the WORLD together is Barack Obama. Hilliary is catching HELL bringing her campaign committe together. I wonder how is she going to get along with her cabinet IF she would be the nominee – which is impossible.
The first time I saw Barack Obama, he was on Oprah Winfrey's talk show. He was mesmerizing, to say the least. I thought, some day that man will be a great leader! When he became a candidate for the presidency, I thought, he's got some nerve, because he doesn't have any experience! He's just another smooth talker! When he and Hillary debated in Texas, I quickly learned why he wanted to answer the questions second. He didn't have any original answers and only parroted what Hillary had already said. Scary! I want Hillary Clinton to deal with the leaders of the world. After all, she's the one with the experience and savvy to keep things at an even keel. She's the only one who will be able to clean up all the messes George Bush has created; and she'll balance the budget, to boot! The only thing that would sweeten her election is if Joe Bidden is her vice-president. The world could rest easy then.
Obama:
As an astute African-American male, he would be living testament that this country has left it's heinous history of racism in the past(along with the Bush administration) were he to be elected to the highest seat in the land...
I've also got some prime swamp land at unbeatable prices down in Florida to go along with that pipe dream if anyone's interested.
Sunrise,Fl
Damn it Jack, you too? Ron Paul will NOT drop out! And obviously he would be the best for our country. Obama might help initially but after his continued "war on terror" he would go down horribly and we would lose all confidence from around the world. The whole war on terror is a batch of lies Jack, yet the average American doesn't believe it.
Campaign finance issues, campaign infighting, fear mongering...
If you cannot manage a $150 Million campaign without smear and controversy, how can you manage a trillion+ dollar deficit and a global image??
Please! If the dems are crazy enough to overlook the grassroots support and overwhelming appeal that Obama has to allow the conniving Clintons to wrench their way back into office, whole constituencies may be lost for good. I dare them.
Barack Obama, without any doubt.
Obama because he starts with a clean slate. Remember Clinton has 35 years of experience already.
Well it certainly be a President that laughlingly jokes about bombing Iran like Mcinsane, on Clinton who will pander to China and will not scrap NAFTA! I can't believe the state of Ohio who was the most screwed by NAFTA supported Clinton. I guess the have abused wife syndrome.
Obama will be the best for the job.Obama can mend more countries
feelings abouth the US,than hillary or McCain.
neither one of these three idiots! they are all pandering "s.o.b's" is the U.S.A. english or an hspanic country, too bad neither one can distinguish!
None of them. It's going to take the American people working together to restore America's stature. We need to take our country back; start manufacturing goods for sale thorughout the world instead of being the world's best consumers; encourage our farmers to grow as much as possible to feed everyone so that no one goes to bed hungry in America and in other countries; regain the trust of Muslims and reassure them that America is not on a crusade like W indicated; and recognize none of this can be accomplished overnight, but it must start now before it gets worse. Until then, how can we honestly respect ourselves much less expect others to respect us?
Jack-
The only we get back on our feet is by condemning this current foreign policy of policing the world and starting wars. Getting back to a Constiutional way of government will lead to more prosperity and better foreign relations through diplomacy. The only candidate left who proposes Constitutional government and a non-intervention foreign policy is Ron Paul. No one else comes close.
Taylor
Hartland, Wisconsin
without a doubt it would take someone like Barack Obama to restore our image abroad........Hillary might be able to help it some but definitely we do not need another John Wayne type McCain has more intelligence than Bush but the same mentallity about other countries......recalling his bombed Beach Boys joke about bomb Iran.....definitely not very presidential......
Obama. Period.
At this point, it seems the leader whom can best restore the U.S image is a democrat. It does the country's image no good for the nominee to be coalesced by an out-of-touch hot-under-the-collar president, a president who actually adopted (stole) John McCain's economic plan, but a president who has no idea how to make the necessary course corrections for the plan to be viable.
If the heavens rejoiced, and opened up and to allow Barack Obama the right of way, spreading the gospel of change to convince the hearts and minds of all listen, well, then Howard Dean would have to make sure that the names of the delegates were acquired in a fair manner, and not simply by copying names off of the master list or counting some names twice. Make no mistake that a rogue band of women surrogates can get pretty "catty" when it comes to competing against another woman candidate. The Obama camp better check their facts and stats, or this particular presidency could be marred by a bunch of little white lies, false numbers, and fibs, like talking to Canada with a second face. Winning with impunity is part of the American dream, right?
Not of Hillary Clinton has a say. I'm not her autobiographer, but "it took a Clinton to clean up after the first bush, and it will take a Clinton to clean up after the second."
Of the choices we have the answer is Obama.
But the bigger story should be the disgusting amount of money these candidates have raised. How is that the 2 remaining Dem. candidates raised $90 million in a MONTH, yet several more worth while charities can't seem to raise even 5% of that in an entire year. They (the charities) will do a lot more good for this country then any of the Presidential hopefuls. What is wrong with this country Jack! Every child in the USA could have free health care for the amount of money that has been raised by ALL of the contenders that have been in this race. It truly disgust me!
Adam
Harrington, DE
Seeing as Senator Obama is the only candidate willing to meet face-to-face with leaders of nations here hatred and distrust of the U.S. runs the highest, I think that makes him a clear answer to this question. Our current willingness to sit down with only our friends is not diplomacy - it's the high school cafeteria run amok. We've even got a dumb jock at the head of the table.
- Jamie in L.A.
Either Obama or Clinton! The people of the world know that John McCain is just another Bush! There are still good feelings toward the Clinton's and Obama is a breathe of fresh air!
Obama has the dignity, grace, thoughtfulness, likeability, a true racial mix to back up our US "...regardless off race, religion, ethnic..." Constitution. Obama is the first "breath of fresh air" in honesty in politics.
Obama doesn't make promises he can't keep the way Clinton does.
Obama shows respect for the other person regardless of differing views/opinions. I believe it's very important for citizens of other countries to want their leaders to work WITH America with Obama at its head than distance or be AGAINST America with a Bush leading.
BARACK OBAMA!
Who can best restore our position in the world?
Well, when that RED PHONE stops ringing off the wall today,
let's see who answers it! Here we go again.... it's been "one of those days" again with terrorists, chaos, etc., in both Baghdad and Jerusalem.
My guess is that Hillary, is probably burning the midnight oil, busy getting her plans and people together to meet this with her perseverence and perfectionist qualities.
As for Obama – he's probably sleeping soundly in his bed, with visions of sugarplums dancing in his head... ready to spring from his lips.
Jack from the looks of things this far into the election process we will probably have to wait another four years to find out who runs.
Jack,
The Clintons are well known and respected worldwide. Hillary has already been at the forefront of American diplomacy to promote women's right, human rights, and the prestige of America. She is my choice. The world is not impressed bu empty rhetoric and speeches void of results. They usually get that from their local politicians. Hillary is America's fresh and charming face.
Burt
Of the current candidates I think Obama has the best chance. He will hire fresh faces as well as well thought of ambassadors to change the message through his inspiration and leadership. His team will also reflect his leadership by not doing what Rice does now of "do it our way or else" diplomacy but how can we work together to make us both better.
I think anything aside from a continuation of Bush (McCain) and a continuation of old school divisive politics (Hillary) we will be better off. At this point I am still looking for a 3rd party candidate to save us from mediocrity.
Jack,
Hillary voted for a war that is opposed by many around the world, and she still can't even admit that she made a tragic mistake. We need a leader that is willing to actively engage with world leaders, and not hide behind bureaucrats and opinion polls. Senator Obama is the right person at the right time.
Dean
Chapel Hill, NC
Barack Obama,
Can talk to other country and help because he only one said he will do so . And he will turn his back on others .
I believe any one of the Democratic Candidates can restore America's image. Unfortunately, McCain, at this time, will be positioned to perpetuate Bush's Foreign Policy and some domestic policies (like making tax cut permanent) as a trade – off to gaining Neo-Conservatives.
Jack, do you even have to ask that question? Of course it's Obama!
i think there is hope in the world ,i was really proud of how people in iran really loves america and i believe one day god will give us a leader with some sense of how the world works
The world needs a new face, not Mr. McBush, not Ms. Clinton, and Mr. Obama is it. How better to show the world that we are evolving than to elect a man of color!
Republicans for Obama!
Mr. Happy Hope. Kumbaya is an inter-national chant.
Hilary because she knows these people already and that familiarity will speed things a long...
The answers here are interesting. One caught my eye, "positive PR from Obama". PR? we're not talking about the next face on a wheaties box.
President Clinton was well liked and represented around the world, isn't it a safe assumption Hilary will be too.
"Hope, "PR," "perfectly cast ", "international persona", give me a break., we're talking about a rookie senator. I think Clinton will show the world we're back on track.
My son head of 122 facilities in Asia, living in Bankock tells me the whole Asian market loves Obama. In several areas they almost worship him. Maby just maby Obama can straighten out our Foreign policy by just showing up !!!!
Hillary of course. Obama is green. McCain has one foor in the grave and the other on a bannana peel.
Jack
I am British, living in the USA. I travel extensively internationally on business. Being part of the USA but not FROM the USA I get the true opinions of the countries I visit.
It is both alarming and frightening how low the opinion of the USA has sunk under George Bush – in countries I visited such as England, Germany, India, New Zealand ,S. Korea and Brazil – that should be our friends. The USA is at best considered the laughing stock of the world and at worst a threat to international security.
It will take a new kind of president to restore America to its position of international respect and thought leadership. Somebody who will talk to world leaders whatever their status. Somebody who believes in working together not creating "them and us" conflicts. There is only one person who can do this. That person is Obama.
He (or she) is not a candidate yet and remains anonymous. It certainly isn’t any of the candidates running today.
Obama. Yes...he can! Rebuilding our image abroad will necessitate the kind of policy changes he embraces. The next president will have to take initiative in opening dialogue and seeking to establish amicable relations with world leaders and nations who are opposed to the US on the basis of the policies of the present administration.
T. Smith
Fostoria, OH
No question. Hillary Clinton and those whom she would bring with her are our best hope.
Hillary Clinton, IS THE PEOPLES CHOICE!!! Her vision is clear as you listen to her responsible ways of managing the worlds affair. Her personality, coupled with class, style and reasoning overwhelmly screams PRESIDENTIAL. Her first hand foreign policy experience surpases any thing McCain nor Obama can offer. Though her foreign policy experience is tied to being first lady, it is very valuable because she has walked the corridors of power just like BENAZIR BHUTTO did to qualify her as a beloved leader of her people.
VOTE FOR PROGRESS
VOTE FOR PROSPERITY
VOTE FOR PHILOSOPHY
VOTE FOR AMERICA CITIES
VOTE FOR LOVE AND PEACE
HILLARY RODHAM CLINTON is the PEOPLES CHOICE
we love you HILLARY.
Barack Obama will be best be able to bring our nation back together with the other nations of the world. He is clearly the most intelligent and inspiring candidate we've seen come along in a generation. The leadership, integrity, and respect that he shows will be much appreciated throughout the world, especially after the blatant disrepect from this previous administration.
Hillary with Bills help!! ........its not much to offer...but it's all we got!! Her/Bills political connections can work quickly vs Obama's who will take awhile to get established....We need quick action and results concerning; Bush's war crimes/mess in Iraq and return of jobs to the US!! ...As far as McCain..well ...he needs to open the gate and go out to pasture!!
Who knows... it may take Mickey Mouse getting involved.
The entire world knows Mickey and he may possibly have a better reputation around the world than the candidates that are in the running.
And....they are going to need a real Good Will Ambassador to straighten out the mess that has been unfolding for the last 7 years.
Madam President Hillary Clinton of course. I will bet on her everyday of the week. She's been tested and has persevered. You can hate her and Bill all you want, it won't change the fact that she's a strong woman and her husband was a great president with 62% approval the last year of his presidency. So for all those that are now biting the very hand that fed them good all those years, I say as a Floridean I'm glad Florida finally gets to do something right and make the right decision as to who will lead this country in the right direction.
Does the world respect us today, after 8 years of Bush? Was there great support for the US at the end of the Clinton administration? In short, we need a new style of expressing the American ideal where we can return to our role as a model of values others will respect.
First, I agree that it will not be a Republican but not for the party affiliation. After the way Bush has trashed our reputation in the world I doubt any older white male could repair it. Also, Senator Clinton is known for some wrong reasons and these could problems later for her as the president. So since the best candidate, John Edwards probably won't be our next president, I guess this leaves Barack Obama, and I believe he will be able to restore much of our lost prestige.
Allen
Hartwell, GA
Either democrat would do a good job restoring our international respect. John McCain would be the worst person to have as president.
Jack, the short answer is ME, but since I'm not running....
I like Obama's tack better on the issue of foreign relations. Both Clinton and McCain speak as if they are from a position one step above the others, because for some strange reason [Clears throat...George W. Bush] they think that's presidential, but Obama simply states that he'll work with and speak with and be open to our enemies as well as our allies, and that type of thinking is what will END the confusion over our foreign policy.
That policy being that we were always firm but fair, a policy that has been sadly lacking as of the past 7 years. Saying you'll speak with someone just says you're willing to listen to even the most insane of peopel to give them the opportunitty to reconsider their own words and positions, but doesn't mean you're going to give them the key to the city or the country. Just because he entertains a thought doesn't mena he is then obligated to accept the line of thinking. Diplomacy is what we need now more than ever, and neither Clinton nor Mccain has the right mindset to engage in useful diplomacy.
Whichever candidate will pull us out of the hundreds of countries we are occupying around the world. Oh, I guess that's none of them.
Obama, Obama, Obama. Our country wants change and the world wants change, without it we may never be able to win back the international friendships that were tattered by the Bush administration.
-Julia Hays
Pitman, NJ
Stope giving away our grain until food prices here come down! They don't allow you to put U.S. on most of it anyway, we dont' get credit for it, some pin head dictator does. Slow or stop imports of grain until the U.S. market stabilizes or sell in country at a cheaper rate.
I would fix the price of corn and wheat for what ever a barrel of oil is selling for after I got the market conditions set up for it.
That would be the best thing to do to restore our position in the world. let half of them starve and the other half know where their food comes from. Then tell them food for oil.
OBAMA for Sure ! no doubt
O= Only
B= BLACK
A=ACT
M= MOVE
A= AMERICA
The only black man that can Act to move America to 21 century peacefully !!!
Toronto – Ontario
I'll just ditto an earlier post
Hillary Clinton, President
Barrak Oboma, Vice President
Bill Clinton, Secretary of State
John Edwards, Attorney General
Joe Biden, Joint Chief of Staff
Well said.
It has to be Hillary.
Her deep of understanding of international politics and issues, her continued fight for human rights, and her genuine sense of humour are some of the many qualities that make her stand out as the best person to
lead USA and map a new course for the nation, where it can be respected in the eyes of the world.
Jack, for starters, anyone would do better than Bush "The Decider" has to date, same goes for Rice. So, the only way to go is hopefully "up" as to the image of America around the world. McCain is not the "man" if he continues to wrap himself around the Bush "Holy War" in Iraq, a war initiated base on lies by liars, Bush, Cheney, Rice, Rumsfeld and Wolfowitz, war criminals all!
I have been asked by dozens of people about the US election. 100% of them have more interest in seeing Obama elected president. His personal story and record of achievements are better known abroad than they apparently are in Texas and Ohio! While the rest of the world leads the US in having women leaders, the US would do what no European country could ever do, and that is to elect a black for president. This would be real world leadership.
Jack,
In all honesty I believe the top 3 candidates right now (being Obama, Clinton and McCain) will do nothing to restore our position in the world. Each brings something different to the table that will just make our reputation in the world even worse. Obama and Clinton are nothing but endless false promises, and don't even get me started on McCain, who would definately have an itchy trigger finger on the launch button if he were to sit behind that desk in the oval office.
Ron Paul is the only candidate who says, and means, that we need to change our foreign policy. No country wants our troops in their business or our bases on their land, and sooner or later we will have to admit that our policy is one of the root causes of the hatred towards America. We take sides in wars that have nothing to do with us and sooner or later we always end up making a fair share of enemies in the process. The more troops we send overseas, the less safe we are back at home. Who will protect us from another attack while we have hundreds of thousands of our troops in countries across the world?
Let's not forget that the Republican nominee is not chosen until the convention. Hopefully by some miracle we can see that nomination go to the sane Republican candidate, Ron Paul. Otherwise, don't expect the world to look at us any differently anytime soon.
The only one who can is Sen. Obama. The rest of the world is watching closely to see if America still is the "Land of Opportunity" that attracted so many millions of immigrants over the centuries. Electing the son of a white American and an African foreign student; one who also spent time living abroad during his childhood; would send the message to the world that hope still lives in America. America would immediately, in an instant, become the shining beacon of hope, freedom and opportunity that brought my ancestors and every other American's ancestors to this land, and made it the greatest country in the world.
There is only one candidate that can restore the world's respect and opinion of the United States and that is Senator Obama. John McCain is only a continuation of Bush and we all know how the world feels about W. Hey, 70% of us US citizens are embarrased by Bush as well! Senator Clinton is a cold calculating fish who seeks power through conquering and dividing. She is for Hillary only and not her Democratic party or it's members as her recent TV ads have shown.
Senator Obama has clearly expressed his desire to heal old wounds and to engage in constructive dialogue with all world leaders. He is a uniter and a gifted leader this world seriously needs right now.
BigdaddyJ
Wilmington, DE
No contest-Obama. Not only was he against the Iraq war from the start, he wants to end the MINDSET that got us into that war. And what's seen as a negative, his name, is seen as a very positive thing to the rest of the world. What a 180 he would make in the eyes of the world.
Barack Obama's election would instantly cause a drastic shift in the way the world views America. If we are looking to start anew, he is the best choice of the three. McCain is just another white guy, and Hillary Clinton is just another Clinton.
About equal for Barack Obama and Hillary Clinton, but Bill Clinton is a big plus in this regard. Who's Barack got? Just Barack. McCain? You kidding? "Bomb, bomb, Iran" about sums it up. Wait until he blows that famous temper of his in a foreign policy crisis. And he's stubborn, just like Bush. Rick, Yakima, WA.
Who ever is willing to put the democracy back in the united states instead of running around telling other countries how to run their government. Oh and lets see obamas tax returns for the last several years.
Obama. A Black man, a smart man, a man whose very family background and name are international.
The result of the 'Democrats Abroad' vote tells you – Sen Obama.
Ron Paul. See here:
Who would the world vote for?
Has to be Hillary! After finding out that Barrack Obama was not even in the United States Senate in 2002 – 2003 when the current administration went to the Congress and Senate for the Authorization of Use of Military Force as a diplomatic tool to push the international community to impose intrusive inspections on Sadam Hussein. Get that folks – the dude wasn't there – he did not have the privilege of the information submitted to these individuals – so to say he "voted NO" – a lie!
And here;s another bitter pill – he could do something to really help this country as head of the Senate Foreign Relations Committe. He could at least hold this administration responsible to answer questions – something we consider "oversight"! He could, if he would. He has not done one thing in this position. Not one folks – consider Hillary and John McCain, they may not always vote the way we want, but for sure if either of them are placed in a position to head a committee – sitting on their back sides is not an attribute of either!
Barrack takes the position that he has superior intuitive judgement regarding Iraq, Afghanistan and Iran, however he display the characteristics of a political opportunist looking to avoid having his fingertips on any issue that might be controversial, and require real judgment, while preserving his freedom to bludgeon his adversary for actually taking positions as elected office demands. He acts as if he is a man of principle, it is clear he certainly is not a man of substance.
Be careful america, beautiful rhetoric does not a man of substance make. Don't go where we went 8 years ago! Lets get someone of experience to lead this country.
Come on Jack, I answer is clearly Obama. America's need a leader who even-tempered and cool under fire.
McCain has a temper that is well-documented. Hillary has shown too much ill-temperment on the campaign trail thus far.
Hillary has already personally insulted a world leader. It was only in January 2008 when Hillary said that Putin “has no soul” and then Putin’s February 2008 response towards Hillary was that “the head of state should have a head”. Hillary is divisive!
Barack Obama of course. He's the only one who has said that he would be willing to talk to world leaders. The others with all of there so called experience is not willing to consider talking. The world we live in is changing and we can not continue to function as a world leader with that type of attitude.
Mr. Cafferty, If you look at this question seriously, you know the only possible answer is Ron Paul!!!!!! He is the only hope for America!!!
Summer Shade KY
As a military field-grade officer I believe that Barack Obama is the best candidate who can restore America's position in the world. Barack appears as though he realizes that there's more to "life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness" than sending our military into action.
Sometimes we need to use more "honey" (i.e. true diplomacy – talks without any pre-conditions) and less "vinegar" (i.e. military action, sanctions, embargoes) to improve our world positioning, the economy, and our safety and security.
National policy and strategy wins wars; military policy and strategy wins campaigns. It's time that more Amercians embrace this reality.
Barack Obama is the "honey" that we "ugly-Americans" need.
Greg in Leavenworth Kansas
Since Senator Clinton is claiming only a speech she made that "stands up to China on women rights" as proof of her experience. I find it strange that she is attacking him about "only making a speech" Thats just me thinking.
I believe that Obama would be the best one. Anytime Putin tells Hillary (in a remark she made about him) that a Head of State needs a head. We know how she will be received in the world with a lot of world leaders.
Rosalind
Senator Obama wins this one hands down. John McCain's war monger attitude is already turning off our allies, and dispite her claims of vast foreign policy experience, Hillary Clinton has already stated that she will retreat to the background and send surrogates to negotiate with world leaders.
Senator Obama has pledged to work with all world leaders friend and foe, to solve the problems we face, he understands that leading by example can restore our prestige on the world stage and rally other nations to our cause.
one word Jack< Hillery
missouri
How can it be any candidate except Senator Obama? He talks about the world in all his stump speeches. He has the most humble (not weak) foreign policy platform. While Hillary Clinton might have gone and sipped tea in 80 countries, she has said very little about foreign policy except that she will support the arrogant American strategy in place. As for John McCain, his campaign has nothing to do with change.
Uh, Ron Paul is the only candidate running who voted against the war in Iraq. And he is still running by the way. You guys are ridiculous.
From a neighbours (note the spelling) perspective, Obama offers a fresh, clean and youthful appearance; almost JFK like. Despite his lack of experience he could go a long way to opening or even reopeng doors that are being slammed in Americas face. Clinton and McCain are seen as old school "my way or the highway" type politicians which the world is getting tired of.
Barck Obama. He will show the world that America is finally doing what it preaches. Then maybe people world wide will start to respect us and believe that democracy really works for everyone.
I think anybody but McCain would restore this country. Like President Bush, he wants to stay in Iraq, which is why Bush's approval ratings went down. As for the democrats, I think Barach is best suited, because Hillary thinks she can get the troops out in a matter of weeks. Impossible, just like our government ever seeing the real problems of our country.
Without doubt Barack Obama. He seems to be the only one cognizant of the fact that a carrot and stick only works on a horse, and does not hold any misconception of being superior to anyone. Unlike his rivals he does not see any opportunity to talk with enemies as his descending to the lowly or an award for jumping through hoops set up by the master/ madam. The very thought is more likely to make more rogue states and persuade the rogues to be even more so. Obama's concept of making preparations and meeting with friends as well as enemies, with an eye to all the damage done in the world by the recent American foreign policy, seems more realistic than business as usual.
Clinton…why? Because we need more than just to “hope” that the real issues of the world will be resolved. McCain is to much like Bush, and Obama is to week. He is a great speaker and may inspire even me at times, but that does not mean he is going to be able to go head to head with the leaders of the world. Just look at how he has handled the Rezko, Canada-NAFT, and red phone issues. Duck cover and hope the ant-Clinton media will go back to scrutinizing her and leave him alone. Give me a break…this guy isn’t president material.
Obama would definitely be the one. I believe people in the other countries are tired of dealing with Bush then Clinton then another Bush now here comes another Clinton or John McCain for what it matters Enough is enough. The USA need someone different one with new ideals who has an ear to hear and a true concern. Clinton wants Obama to participate in a cat fight instead of sticking to the agenda of presidency dealing with the war, economy, health care and the border. Maybe Hillary is lost for words. She is always speaking of Obama speechs What? Is she jealous. Stick to the issues Hillary
After all you and Bill had your hands in Nafta and you suckered the Ohians by bringing up Obama to get keep them from focusing on why they are in the shoes they are in and you did it. Wow! Real smart Hillary
No doubt in mind that candidate would be Barack Obama. Look at how Clinton used lies and nastiness to win. Are those not the things the rest of the world dispise us for. NAFTA GATE. I thinkk those of you in the Mianstream Media should examine who really went to Canada first. It is all over the Internet that the Clinton Campaign, made the first 'WINK WINK". Can we get a little fairness here.
No question about it- Hillary would be by far the best. She is already known and respected around the world and she won't suggest that world peace can be achieved by all of the world leaders sitting in a circle and singing "Cumbyah" and not being "negative". She also knows that when dealing with difficult foreign situations, you don't play your ace (the president) first. Obama thinks peace and love is going to solve things- He's living in the wrong decade. Thank goodness the Democrats have a strong option in Hillary.
Jack, everyone know that only women can do that, even if I like Obama or McCain, to restore or repair or clean up, only a women has that magic touch. All you men know that it take a strong woman to run things, who runs your house Jack? But I know men think they do a better job keep dreaming..it's good to dream.
If its Senator Clinton, Im sure world leaders are thinking which one of her personalities are going to answer the phone!
Whoa, this shouldn't even be an issue. Any rational person can see that HILLARY CLINTON is the ONLY one who can restore our position in the world.
She is my inspiration! Hillary for President!
Clinton without a doubt. Obama is too inexperienced we saw that when he met with the Canadian Goverment lied and said there was no meeting. Then the memo comes out and there was a meeting.Then said they were misunderstood. He can not be trusted.
If America wants to restore respect for it worldwide, all we need to do is shut off the flow of foreign aid for 6 months, then turn it back on. No single nation has given more, or gives more. Americans give money to foreign countries and causes through taxes, and then turn around and write checks anytime a catastrophe befalls people who live thousands of miles away. Electing Obama to be an international apologist may make the country popular for a few years, but a few decades from now when we look back on this time through the clearer lenses of historical objectivity, I'm pretty sure we'd see how big a mistake we made in giving someone so green such responsibility. Similarly if Hillary won, anytime she did receive a phone call at 3am, we'd have to wait 6 months for the opinion polls to come in to tell her what the best idea would be on how to proceed.
Nobody. The fact is that everybody hates us. Thanks to constant intervention where we don't belong, 'arrogance ala Dubya' and the fact that we are convinced that we are the solution or savior for the world is just the recipe for this hatred. The fact is that if it had been Russia or Canada in our position, we'd be burning their flags.
A woman. Men just can't do the job.
Are you kidding me? Without question, Obama would be able to ease relations around the world and put America in a new light. McCain would be Bush part 3, and Hillary has an old fashioned outlook on diplomacy. Obama is our only hope for setting things right. Fresh air I say!
Barrack obama is already catching the World and he is the only one that can give this world a fresh start. The clintons are running around acting like they love everybody in the world but they have already proven that is false. Look at the race card they played.....
Which ever candidate surrenders the ills of massive power back to the Constitution.
Candidate? I say the current President, Mr. George H. W. Bush.
SIMPLE – Senator Barack Obama.
Senator Rodham Clinton is no Bill Clinton – her 'attitude' is abrasive and arrogant – with not an ounce of graciousness – unacceptable toWorld Leaders. (She should look to Angela Merkle for 'style', and 'how to win friends, and influence people).
Senator faught in one unlawful war, and coluded in starting – you can take the man out of the mlitary, but not the military out of the man. And he carries the 'Bush endorsement' – the kiss of death on the world stage.
Brenda Elizabeth Cowley Waters
Dublin, Ireland/London & Paris
Its certainly not Obama, thats for sure. whats he going to do, give a speech and tell everyone what good judgment he has? then what? his fairy tale is almost over and the real leaders will start talking serious about doing something in america and actually do it.
Obama is the only candidate that has a prayer of reaching out to the people our government has alienated over the past twenty years. Yes, I'm including Bush, his father, and Bill Clinton in there.
Obama's open attitude towards dialog with other countries is a breath of fresh air.
The mere act of electing such an "outside the box" candidate should encourage people around the world.
President Hillary Rodam Clinton, after all 300 years of testosterone a women's touch will heal and protect.
Barack Obama seems to be the only candidate with credibility, tenacity, and the intelligence to move us out of the mess we are in. McCain is more of the same that hasn't worked the last eight years and Clinton brings too much baggage from the past and will be unable to generate unity of spirit in America.
The candidate who is able to get up off the canvass
no matter how many times she is knocked down and
take out the opponent....whether politically or
otherwise.
Obama...
That depends on which "position" you are referring to. McClain would definately restore the status quo; perhaps for eternity, when the nukes start flying.
If attempting to restore our position as world laughingstock in falling for the same old lies, then Clinton would get the nod.
To restore the perception that Americans don't have a clue what they want, as long as it is something different, then Obama is the right choice.
If we are looking to restore self-respect and show some world leadership by example, someone had better convince Ron Paul to run as an independent.
Restoring America's position would mean changing its current position. This can be best accomplished by someone who believes in 'change' which is Obama. This job also requires someone who is willing to talk to both friends and enemies which again is Obama.
–Jyothi, Mckinney, TX
Either Democratic candidate will help America gain worldwide respect again. Obama is a youthful symbol and a symbol for change, while Clinton will be remembered for her husband's administration, one of peace and leadership. McCain will be severely hurt by President Bush's endorsement in the eyes of many worldwide as well as his support for indefinite military occupation in Iraq.
Ron Paul. Besides he has not dropped out of the race!
Considering the reality of our standing to the rest of the world I'm stunned that the 43% who thought everything was OK had enought brain cells rubbing together to be able to answer the question.
Obama without question, he's already on the record as saying we need to go the extra step to repair our seriously damaged relations around the planet.
Barack Obama would give America an entirely new face and image abroad. His fair, broad-minded, diplomatic approach to world affairs and dynamic leadership style will restore the world's faith in America. Obama will give the world hope, just as he gives it to Americans.
The world will equate John McCain with George W. Bush.
Hillary Clinton would fair better than McCain, but her personality does not lend itself to good will and diplomacy. America can do better.
The question should be- Which candidate will restore human rights in the world. When it comes to women's rights, Obama isn't the right candidate for that- apparently he finds nothing wrong with women not being able to gain political office in Mississippi.
Two Words - O BAMA!
Jack, I believe either of our Democratic hopefuls would, at the very least, add a sense of hope to the world. I do feel that Sen. Obama, by his very nature, will calm world leaders, world residents and most importantly those of us who have been the most hurt, Americans.
Jane Lobdell, Bethany, CT.
Jack, This question is too easy. It should be "WHERE'S THE BEEF?". The answer is Hillary Clinton of course.
Only Barack Obama can break this stuck-up marital dispute 'I won't talk to him' diplomacy of George W. Bush.
Lets see, all that is needed is a person who can pay off a nine trillion dollar debt, end the war in Iraq, reform FEMA, get political hacks out of justice, re-tool the military, get the nation out of a recession, and return the millions of jobs that were outsourced. I think God or Jesus might get the job done, but they aren't on the ticket...like they were in 2000.
Jerry Wilson
Obama should stay on the offensive but defend his postion when necessary. However, it seems the American people respond to the Clinton negativity. As for her claim to have so much experience Obama just has to remind voters that decisions (even those at 3:00 am) are made with the advice of very experienced advisors (a statement even Henry Ford once uttered to his critics) after all the United States of America is not run by a dictatorship.
Jim
Ontario, Canada
One of the very obvious and easiest questions of all time: Obama.
Those with EXPERIENCE as they call it will only have us experience more of these negative connotations that America has as ascribed – which of course is soon leading to a stereotype (like "those 'experienced' Ameriacn").
Even the good, the bad, and the ugly around the world are willing to view us differently as ling as it's Obama at the helms of affairs.
Hilary!!!! period, no contest
Obama of course. He acts, looks, behaves and dresses presidental. Remember the guy who ran when Condi Rice wanted to talk to him, because he saw some woman dressed in red. This man and all the rest probably will go into cardiac arrest when they see Hillary in her canary yellow pant suit.
Iam a canadian and to many of us Barack Obama is like a breath of fresh air.He is intelligent,articulate and is baggage free compared to the Clintons.
I have American cousins who have served in Iraq and my nephew will be deployed in the near future in Afganistan. Barack's world view is correct the right war is in afganistan not Iraq the Bush Cheny doctrine has adversely the world It is time for real change and this is what Barack represents .
The world's opinion of America will instantly improve the moment he is elected as President and if you did a world survey you will find I am not alone in my thoughts.Everyone including Americans are tired of despicable campaign tactics like we have seen. and know Barack has a tickle trunk he could use against he Clintons and has not.Gee there truly is honourable men.
Jack, without a doubt, Senator MMcCain will restore the good ole U.S.A.'s prestige arounf the world. He's a bona fide hero, who's respected around the world. His straight talk and honesty will serve him well, when setting an example, for our nation. Hillery will remind the world, of her immoral husband and Obama has no depth or experience.
Obama is best qualified to not only retore America's position, but he has the best chance in beating McCain. Viewers must ask themselves why did the McCain camp attack Obama and not Clinton? Why, because they know all the dirt that happened in the Clinton adminstration during the eight year term. many democrats will vote for McCain if Hillary pulls a fast one. The Clintons have shown that they will do anything to win. They are destroying the party, dividing the resources, and will cause another republican to get in. McCain wants Hillary. The republican party wants Hillary. They are going to do what they do best and will have ample amunition to do it. Just look at the current facts, she won't release her taxes and she went to Florida after an agreement was made not too. She did campaign in Florida! She said while in Florida, I'm not here to ask you for your vote, but to thank you for your vote." Campaiging – YES. She is not a trustworthy person because why not release her taxes. Did she receive a substantial amount of money from a foreign Arab country or not? Did she not violate the rules already concerning Michican & Florida? Is she still keeping Americans in the dark? Yes. Come clean Hillary. America wants peace and stability and an open-door policy. Barack Obama offers an opportunity for change. Your only experience is that you lived in the White House for eight years. McCain is going to beat you with yours and your husbands indiscressions and back room deals. The republicans don't care if they hurt your feelings or the party. They are out to win and they will if you are the democratic candidate. Record numbers will not vote for you and the independent running will grauntee you loose by taking votes from our party. Stop the negative because in the end, you may not win and then what. You are giving ammo to the republicans.
Jack, Our foreign relations stink. We push our ideals and tout around the world this is the only way to live. We bully the world into believing that our way is the best way. In some circumstances this is understandable and i believe in them e.g., human rights, freedom of religion, and democratic freedoms. However, being the BIG KID ON THE BLOCK, shouldnt we lead by example. Our country is in turmoil on many fronts, economy first and foremost. Our troubled economy is directly linked to our foreign policy matters just ask Iran, Venezuela, Russia and China. It will take a long time to regain our respect abroad and i dont think it will happen with the next president. With all that being said Barack Obama will meet with anyone with some prerequisites of course. He can lead us on the right course. Only time and action will lead us out of this hole. Telford, PA
No one can change our image worldwide. Our next President more than likely will be a puppet like our current President. There is a controlling force behind the scenes that pulls ALL the strings as far as policy goes.
I believe Hillary Clinton already has ample experience in bringing about good will for America. She is world known and probably already has relationships with many countries. Barack Obama would also do a good job in bringing about good will for our country but his inexperience may hurt him in other parts of the world. John McCain may seem is very knowledgeable but may be too connected to Bush which may create an uphill road. It will be nice to have any President who reaches out to other countries to improve relations instead of alienating the world.
DEFINETLY OBAMA- He is already inspiring people abroad as he has her. And he himself embodies different races and has lived abroad as well. This is illustrated in his broad thinking and universal appeal. Hillary is a nasty fighter and is seen as a divider. Mc Cain is the same old thing all over again. Sometimes years of experience is not so good,,if you just repeat, repeat, repeat. Obama has character and his intelligence can begin new relationships.
Barack Obama!
He's got international appeal.
Simple, The Clintons fixed it before and they will fix it again.
Jack,
I think McCain's position on the globally unpopular war takes him out of the running. For the remaining two, we need only to look to the Democratic Global Priamary results.
65 to 35, the world says Obama.
Clinton. She has the contacts, history and experience to bring faith in America back to us, and the world.
No one is better than a real American hero like John McCain.
Jack, quite simple! Obama. No need to look further. Obama as president will send an immediate message to the world. "America is a changed nation."
Definitely Obama, Hillary 2nd, McCain 3rd
Jack, the best job would be done by Hillary Clinton. She would make the world look at Americans through another view.
You want to send a signal? Elect a woman.
OBAMA
Jack
That's an easy one. Two words... Al Gore.
Marwan
New York
Nader
Barack Obama
Jack, I believe that the only person running for President that can restore the U.S. position in the world is Mr. Obama. He has world wide appeal and respect. His organizational skills are apparent in how he has run his campaign AND President Obama will answer the telephone and be gathering his advisors before anyone else will even pick up the phone!
Without a doubt, Senator Clinton would do a better job restoring our position in the world. People tend to fear what they don't know, and few government heads abroad, with the exception of what appears to be a few in the Kenyan government, know a thing in the world about him. Same with John McCain. On the other hand, the Clintons are adored and admired around the world! If elected, she will be treated abroad as the media has treated Obama here……as a rock star!
Barack Obama
Without a doubt, Hillary Clinton can best restore our standing in the world!!! As First Lady, Hillary traveled to 82 countries and even since she's been in the senate, she has traveled extensively. She is respected and admired by leaders the world wide. Hillary has been endorsed by 30 Generals and Admirals and they all agree she is best qualified to be Commander-in-Chief, and that she the strongest leader!!
Obama. Period.
I say Obama because he has a grandmother in Kenya also family in Hawaii and Obama is multicultural..
Barack Obama without a doubt,
We need a charismatic, eclectic leader who can associate with foreign leaders.
Hillary Clinton. Despite those of you who do not like the Clinton name, the rest of the world does.
Beyond a question of a doubt, OBAMA. He is multi racial, he is educated, he is a peace maker, and he doesn't have all the mud under his fingernails as Clinton, and he isn't tied to Bush as Mc Cain.
He is a good man, What the Clintons do is unbelieable, but the fact that American's buy into their BS is totally UNREAL. A nation of idiots
Obama of course!
He is the only Washington outsider candidate who can make this happen!
Clinton has the same problem as McCain, they both voted for he war !
Go Obama
obama would make the best........
John McCain will best serve to improve our image. I do not always agree with him, but he means what he says and sticks by his values.
Clinton on the other hand says what she wants us to hear, and Obama does not have the background or political pull to instill confidence as of yet.
Unfortunately , it is probably none of our current choices. Maybe if Mr. Cafferty was in this contest then there might be some hope. The Bush administration has done such monumental damage that it will take several several presidential terms, by the right kind of Presidents, to restore our international image.
Barack Obama, without a doubt. Barack Obama is a man with a vision and willing to talk not just to his allies but also to his enemies. His message of hope is certainly spreading hope around the world too, as is apparent from the fact that people in other parts of the world want to see Barack Obama become the next US President. Obama has the ability to bring people together, and he will bring people around the world together too, and a movement will emerge towards peace and understanding.
Obama, He is a man on a mission.
Hillary mouth is too big, and to bitter. She likes to fight and cause problems. Look at the problems she is causing just in the Election. There is no way she need to talk to them, they would run her out on a stick. Most of the other countries don't speak to kindly to women being in charge.It has to be a MAN and that is Obama
Barack will bring a new face to American foreign policy that has been severely tainted by the Bush administration. Neither McCain, who is the continuation of current administration, nor Hillary who shares the same approach to foreign leaders have the ability to amend this damage done by Bush.
Barack Obama would be the candidate to best restore U.S. position in the world. He has the ability to inspire anyone in question about the problems at hand. With that going for him, I think that he then will be able to resolve, with great judgement, solutions that would bring the change that is needed.
.
Harriet
The world is tired of the same old gang of American politicians who don't have a clue about other cultures and their values. Because of his lineage, Barack Obama possesses a unique understanding of other cultures, an understanding that some of us could never comprehend. And, although I respect Hillary Clinton, there are also those cultures with which we must deal who may speak to her politely to her face, but will never accept a pushy, aggressive female as their equal.
Hillary is still scared to talk to certain other nation's leadership. President Obama is willing and able to talk to "any" nation's leadership. This will be seen as a major benefit of restoring dignity and respect throughtout the whole world.
Ron Paul will clean it up. Sorry jack there more then Just McCain I am a elected delegate and will vote for Ron Paul and also vote no confidence in McCain. Ron Paul Delegates took control in CO. So will we across the country Rember lincoln only had 22 delegates enter rep convention
Right now the US is alone in its fight against everything. (thank you George Bush for driving unprecedented World support after 911 into unprecedented hatred)
Only Barack Obama can win back the Worlds' favour.
If he doesn't win its game over, the US is on its own again for another 4 years.
With the World behind Barack Obama, and with the American people behind Barack Obama there is nothing, however lofty, that could not be achieved in a new cooperative World environment.
Hi, Clinton could not make the right decision during the day about the security of the country; How is she going to make a better decision at 3pm in the morning? Experience is not only the key here It is integrity and strength to hold out rather than breaking down and cry when things do not work out. McCain does not qualify for the white house he was qualified for war. and had experience of the war Bravo! Frankly Mr Obama is more qualify for this based on his policy. Mr Clinton was not an experienced president before he gets in the house, and yet he did well .
Frankly we are tired of the old trick and rules and idiotic experience in the white house. we need change
OBAMA! The rest of the world even wants him as president over the other candidates, so considering that they like him so much our relations would improve. Hopefully when he becomes president, we'll stop being the arrogant country that everyone else hates.
To the rest of the world, McClain is just another George Bush so he won't help. Obama has no credibility in foreign policy and no experience either. Hillary Clinton will be seen as a continuation of her husband's foreign policy by the rest of the world so she's our best hope for the world to recognize a change that they can believe.
MJS in SC
Clinton would best be able to restore our immage in the world, she has had the best teacher.
I know that Barack Obama would be the only person to unite this country. He is the true face of America, being of mixed heritage he recognizes all races. I truly believe above all else he wants to help fix our ills, not just be president.!! He has the right amount of experience, enough to know the terrain and enough to still have have hope. HIllary on the other hand is riding on the back of the Clinton name her experience is largely exaggerated. Being married to a president doesn't make you presidential. I was married to a basketball player and I still can't dribble a ball. As for McCain he is too old. I don't see him doing anything other than keeping things as they are.
I definatly think Barack Obama will be the best candidate.
Barack Obama because McCain is just a third term of Bush and Hillary is nothing but Bush/Cheney foreign policy hawk.
We don't need more of the same, Clinton or McCain.
I think Obama would be best for restoring America's position around the world, because the alternative of Mccain, or Clinton will just be more of the same. If we think our position in the world is bad now it will only get worse with either one of the latter.
Barack Obama speaks a universal language. In Obama Japan people are engaged in this person of universal peace who comes from a diverse back ground and understands how to bring people together. I only hope that the world doesn't let this man slip through the crack of their fingers, it would be ashame, how many people like this are really out their in this world nowadays.
Senator Clinton would be my choice...she has met many of the leaders and dealt with many of them on moral and civil rights in their countries.
There is only one uniter that is BARACK OBAMA the man of hope and dream for all people.
The only one of the candidates that is willing to talk with the rest of the world will repair the damage. At this time the people of England – France – Germany say that Putin was the best influence on the world in the last 10 years – What does that tell you?
You are so on . . .if the Democrats were looking for experience they would still have Biden, Richardson and Edwards in the primaries! They want change and to participate in a "piece of the action". Obama is the answer, Clinton is "more of the same".
I believe Obama's message of change has transcended out borders to the rest of the world. The world's perception of the U.S. has been destroyed. How can you repair and mend fences with foreign governments if you elect a candidate who symbolizes, looks, talks, etc. like the statusquo. Sorry to say, another four years of a Clinton or Bush takes Hillary and McCain out of the picture. I feel sorry for them.
The World's looked onto for the past 7 years
as Bush has left Americans in tears
The way to the future begins with Barack
He'll restore us our faith and increase our stock
The years to come we'll be lead by Obama
To free us finally from all this Bush drama
Scott, Plainview NY
know I am not answering your question but I wish people would stop referring to the "Dream Ticket". For Obama supporters having Clinton any way associated with Obama would be a nightmare.