A powerful political movement, two generations of writers

Maria Berriozabal (photo) & Michael Soto: (photo) A powerful political moment

We represent two very different backgrounds.
One of us is a sixty-something woman who has witnessed first-hand some of the most difficult political struggles in recent San Antonio and Texas political history. One of us is a thirty-something man who chose an academic life in part because it allows him to think independently of political concerns. The polls and pundits would predict otherwise, but the woman is voting for Obama in this year's Texas Democratic Party primary election, and the man will give his support to Clinton.

Despite our differences, we can agree on much about the two leading Democratic Party candidates for president.

We can agree that, contrary to received wisdom, Hillary Clinton offers a powerful and inspiring message of hope, a vision that America's brightest days are yet to come if we only work together and prioritize results over mere politics. Hers is a story that was unimaginable to previous generations, but it will surely stir generations to come. Her words are a much needed tonic after nearly eight years of thoughtless (or cynical) politics-as-usual.

We can agree that, contrary to what you might read or hear, Barrack Obama possesses a strong and detailed command of the major issues facing this nation. He understands how crucial it is to move our nation beyond a disastrous war in Iraq and an increasingly disastrous war in Afghanistan; to extend affordable healthcare coverage to all Americans; to give hardworking families relief from an endless onslaught of financial pressure; and to shore up government support for all levels of education, from pre-school to higher learning.

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http://www.mysanantonio.com/opinion/stories/MYSA030108.O.berriozabalonline.ce5e289.html

María Antonietta Berriozábal served on the San Antonio City Council from 1981 to 1991. Dr. Michael Soto is associate professor of English at Trinity University.