Know thy enemy: what National Review pundits think of Obama

[bidenista]

I checked out National Review's toxic "The Corner" blog/echo chamber, having been tipped off by a link on Andrew Sullivan's blog. A couple of the überRepubs have some interesting thoughts about Obama:

Re: Caroline Kennedy (Mark Steyn)

...He'd be tough for any Republican candidate, but, if Michael Graham's right, the Clinton machine will take care of the problem. Still, I'd be wary: With Obama in the Veep slot, there'd be enormous pressure to elect, accompanied by endless media stories about whether Americans were "finally mature enough" to vote for a female/African-American ticket....

01/26 10:23 PM

Obama Tonight (Peter Wehner)

Barack Obama's speech tonight was simply exceptional — and a reminder of why he is one of the most remarkable political talents in our lifetime. He was able to speak in ways that seem to rise above conventional politics, even as he was able to masterfully push back against the Clinton attacks of the last several weeks. His capacity to touch and stir authentic emotions is remarkable. And unlike Clinton and especially Edwards, the Obama message is about unity, not divisions; and hopes rather than grievances. If Obama wins the Democratic nomination, Republicans have a great deal to fear. He has tremendous break-out potential.

His weaknesses remains his record and his views, which are conventionally and utterly liberal — and that matters a great deal.

Politics is, at the end of the day, about ideas and philosophy, not simply rhetoric. But, as all the great presidents have shown, rhetoric matters, too. Beyond that, Hillary Clinton is a conventional liberal, as is Obama; the difference is that Obama is a graceful and dignified person who draws people to him rather than drives them away. He is impossible to dislike. And when you see Obama and Clinton together, or back to back, is there any doubt who is the more impressive person — or the more formidable political figure?

01/26 10:12 PM

That's just two pundits, and it's clear that others - e.g. John Derbyshire - think Obama is overrated. Still, I was surprised at how worried Repub bigshots seem to be by Obama. A good sign for him, and a reminder of how excellent our options are.

(I don't think I need to post evidence that Repubs are scared of the Clintons.)

[Mz Pip]

1. Please do post

evidence that the Repugs are scared of Clinton.

Mz Pip
:dem:

[bidenista]

2. have you ever spoken to a repub about clinton?

The prospect of a Hillary presidency has them foaming at the mouth.

[Mz Pip]

3. Oh they hate the

Clintons alright. Bigtime. Nothing energizes the Republicans like the thought of another Clinton White House.

Mz Pip
:dem:

[PATRICK]

4. I think they

are being more simply realistic than a lot of posters of any candidate here. Their ability to win is based on other means than charisma or issues so they can honest and dispassionate in these prelims. i think Obama has exceptional, uncanny breakout possibilities that some "clumsy" things said in the primaries actually lay good groundwork for in attracting GOP leaners. And they are born suckers for emotional appeals as long as it provides welcome sense to save their stock portfolios.

The more he is tested the more probable this looks.