Voters' Views: Charles Grant

The US primary season, in which the main parties select their presidential candidates, kicks off in earnest in the state of New Hampshire on 8 January.

Iowans have already stated their preferences in caucuses. Who will it be in New Hampshire? We asked six residents to tell us who they are supporting and why.

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Charles Grant
Student | Democrat

Clinton has switched to negative campaigning. If this is any indicator of what's to come, count me out.

Age: 19 Lives: Hanover Occupation: Student Last election voted: Too young to vote In 10 words or less: Open-minded university student from mixed political origins Voters' Views: New Hampshire

"As an exchange student at Brighton College last year, I experienced first-hand the need to restore the international community's confidence in America.

I got tired of explaining to Britons how many Americans opposed the invasion of Iraq, didn't vote for Bush, and did, in fact, own passports.

On the other hand, it showed me how truly accountable Americans must be for the government they elect, and how much a president affects international views of America as a whole.

I am tired of partisan politics. In my opinion, they drive short-sighted economic and foreign policy decisions, and draw lines in society where there ought not to be any.

Most young people I know have strong opinions; however, few are quick to label themselves "Republican" or "Democrat". Most just want what is best for our country.

If we're going to move forward as a nation and restore America's prestige in the global community, we have to transcend the divisive politics of the last two administrations. The turnout of younger voters ( from my generation) in Iowa, and the way they voted, showed the importance of this.

After the loss in Iowa, Clinton has quickly switched to negative campaigning. If this is any indicator of what's to come, count me out.

I think Obama still needs every vote he can get. His centrist, consensus-driven stances on critical issues, as well as his voting record in the Senate are exactly what this country needs.

I saw Obama speak this past fall when he visited Dartmouth for the debates. He struck me not only as an intelligent man with vision, but also as one who will listen and knows a good idea when he hears it. After only leaning towards Obama, his recent surge in Iowa has strengthened my resolve. I will vote for him on Tuesday."

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Watch out for an update of Charles's views after the primary.

The readers' panel has been selected from as wide a cross-section of people as possible and may not be representative of wider US public opinion.

Your comments:

I have noticed the same trend that Charlie has mentioned post-Iowa. That being said, I also have a good deal of excitement over Obama. As Mr. Wood stated above, it takes more than an election to effect change. However, with an America enthused for a new president (which could very well be Obama) I believe we have a glimpse of a bright new day in American politics. When maybe, just maybe, the American people are actually happy with their president and country's direction.
Isaiah Berg, Hanover, NH

Charles, I'm sorry to hear that you had to keep taking the rap during your time in England because of Bush. People are ignorant sometimes. I like Obama too. My only fear is that Barack will start believing all the hype that surrounds him. Lets hope he is who he seems to be. Sorry if that sounds cynical but Tony Blair is our very recent experience of false hope.
David, Campbeltown, Scotland

Likewise, I commend your views Charles. Obama is a man who bring intelligence and vision to the politics of the most powerful state in world politics. A leader such as him has been along time coming.
Alex Lickorish, London

Charles i think you are right in what you are saying.Ive lived in Europe for some years and i can understand it. Moreover i s till believe that good judgment is more important than Experience,if experience is what it takes to change this country,Washington could have been a different place today.
Princewill, USA

The only reason Obama is preaching "change" is because he has no past Congressional accomplishments to speak of. His short senate career saw no "change" for the Senate, let alone for his state. In essence, it's easier for him to consistently put forth vague messages of "hope" and "change", rather than laying out specific policy plans.
Joseph Paulson, Keene New Hampshire

i would definitely put all my money on Obama.
John Khumalo, South Africa

As much as I love the passion of Obama's campaign, I'm afraid that he is little more than emotional rhetoric and empty promises. He reminds me of the junior high student running for class president, promising free soda machines and candy for every student. Hillary seems far more pragmatic, far more practical, in her approach- she recognizes the hard work ahead of the next President.
Shayne Henry, Tulsa, Oklahoma

I was a big supporter of Obama, till some of his recent appearances(speeches). I hate to say it he is begining to sound like Hugo Chavez, not a good sign. Hope he comes out with some real economic agenda for our country. Everytime I hear him now he scares me.
Raj Michael, Chicago, US

A couple of months before starting my Bsc course in University of Botswana, i used to watch the senate debates and i was so thrilled by the presence of a black person and a lady within the contestants and listened a lot to what they would about(that is different from others),and guess what, they are the best in my opinion.
Thapelo Shomana, Gaborone, Botswana

Young American! don't be so excited by words, illusion, don't be naive. When Obama elected President and wants change as he indicates he has to confront formidable counter-force. Presidents like Roosevelt, Carter, Clinton, even strong man like Reagan could not do it. How could Obama do it?
Cathy Ng., Fremont, CA.

Charles Grant, I commend you! Somewhere in your education, you have learned to think ... You are 100 per cent in all of your comments. Work hard for your candidate, Obama!
Marjo Miller, Kihei HI USA

I am a British Citizen living in the States and am concerned by the wave of excitement surrounding Obama. He seems intelligent and is certainly a compelling speaker but his entire campaign is based on the notion of change backed by populist and unspecific policies.
Dave Wood, Reston, Virginia

Senator Obama, I believe, is in the right place at the right time to finally introduce what is called modern politics. I believe Senator Obama will give back to the American people not because he is much more special than any of the other candidate but again he is in the right place at the right time with the right ideology.
Michael Marshall, Miami FL