Citing Obama’s “ability to inspire” and the “inclusive nature of his campaign” as the reasons for his endorsement of the Democrat, the former secretary of state in the Bush administration called Obama a “transformational figure” who could be an “exceptional president.”
Powell, a Republican, backed Obama over fellow Republican John McCain, saying: “Obama has both style and substance. He displayed a steadiness. Showed intellectual vigor. He has a definitive way of doing business that will do us well.”
Critical of what he described as McCain’s uncertainty over how to deal with economic crisis, Powell also voiced concern about his selection of Alaska Governor Sarah Palin as his vice presidential running mate. Powell said: “She is a very distinguished woman and she is to be admired. But ... I don’t believe she is ready to be president of the United States.”
Though Powell said he plans to vote for Obama in the general election November 4, he did not express any intentions of campaigning for the Illinois senator, as the presidential race enters its final weeks.
Powell, who served in the military and government for four decades, said he is not looking for a job in an Obama administration. However, he added: “I’ve always said if a President asks you to do something, you have to consider it.”
Meanwhile, McCain, appearing on “Fox News Sunday”, said Powell’s announcement of backing Obama did not come as a surprise, adding that four other secretaries of state had endorsed him.
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